A £3 million pound investment in a new bakery at Westwood will bring more jobs and a living wage for its workers when it opens next month.

Speciality Breads, which has been based at Westwood industrial estate for nearly 20 years, is opening a 3,000 square metre factory close to its existing site.

The move will create 25 more jobs on top of the 25 the company has already made this year. Staff are now being paid the National Living Wage, six months ahead of legal requirements.

Now turning over nearly £6 million a year, Speciality Breads provides a wide range of premium, freshly-frozen breads to wholesalers, who in turn supply restaurants, pubs, cafes and hotels throughout the UK.

North Thanet MP Sir Roger Gale will perform the official opening at the new bakery on Wednesday 11 November.

The site will enable Speciality Breads to quadruple production and includes additional freezers, ovens and a packing line.

Managing director Peter Millen said: “The company has gone from strength to strength since we made a big splash at the 2012 Olympics with our high quality breads now used by leading bars, pubs, cafes, restaurants, hotels and caterers.

“With interest in our breads going through the roof, this new site was vital for us to keep up with demand and continue to grow. It’s been a hard but exciting last few years, so the whole team is looking forward to the big launch.

"Without them none of this is possible, so we are delighted to be able introduce the National Living Wage ahead of time to show our thanks and ensure we retain our skilled staff and grow together.”