MORGAN Motor Company was given a personal good luck message by Prince Andrew during his tour of the firm's works yesterday (Thursday).

The company is due to launch the Morgan Aero 8 in the USA later this month, with a stand at the Los Angeles Motor Show.

The launch was one of the issues discussed by the Duke of York as he toured the Pickersleigh Road factory during a visit to Malvern, in his capacity as special representative for International Trade and Investment.

He then went on to tour Malvern Instruments, on the town's Enigma Business Park, before heading for Worcester.

The Duke was greeted at the Morgan factory by managing director Charles Morgan and a host of local dignitaries, including the Lord Lieutenant Michael Brinton, who is the Queen's representative in Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

Also present was the High Sheriff of Herefordshire and Worcestershire, Georgina Britten-Long, members of the Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce and Malvern Sea Cadets, whose unit, TS Duke of York, carries his title.

The Duke was taken on a guided tour of the Morgan site, finishing at the trim shop, where he was taken around by foreman Steve Summers.

After being shown the unique manufacturing process used in the handmade cars, he was introduced to the famous Aero 8 model and met test driver Keith Dalley.

Alan Garnett, executive chairman of Morgan, said: "The Duke is really interested in the heritage of the cars and has been impressing us with his knowledge. He has asked some most perceptive questions, particularly about the wooden parts of the car. He has said he wishes us every success with the American launch of the Aero 8."

Mr Morgan said: "It went extremely well. I think he showed great support for British manufacturing and being a qualified engineer, he was interesting to talk to.

"I think he got from the workforce knowledge that will stay with him for a long time."

The Duke was then taken to Malvern Instruments, on the Enigma Business Park, where commercial director Dr Jane Bishop gave a presentation about the work of the company, before showing him around a number of laboratories and workshops.

Prince Andrew said he had enjoyed his visit and wished the company all the best for the future.

Prince takes time out to understand businesses, see page 3