Duke and Duchess of Cambridge meet with factory workers facing redundancy during Dundee visit

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have met with workers and their families affected by the closure of a tyre factory in Dundee as part of a visit to the city.

The couple met with workers from the city's Michelin factory, due to close by mid-2020. William and Kate heard what it’s like to live under the cloud of uncertainty caused by the firm's announcement. 850 staff are facing redundancy.

William and Kate have met those affected by the closure of a factory in Dundee. Credit: PA

Speaking to an action group set up in the wake of the closure announcement, William said: "The factory has been a huge part of Dundee's very fabric. It has been a key employer for generations, and has helped sustain the local economy for nearly 50 years.

"For everyone affected, the hope is that all of you sat in this room can find a positive way forward. You all deserve enormous credit for sitting around this table together to find a constructive way forward.

He went on to add: "As I have just heard, when a community faces uncertainty, people feel more optimistic when leaders such as yourselves work together for that community. Because of the collaborative approach adopted by the people in this room, I am optimistic that a good outcome is possible with the site at Michelin."

Kate and William spoke with members of the Michelin Action Group during their visit to Dundee. Credit: PA

The visit is certainly a new approach for Royal visits, but Kensington Palace reportedly wants to do this kind of event more often.

ITV News Royal Editor Chris Ship says the fact "two senior royals should want to hear about tough times facing a group of workers - as well as celebrate British success - is a welcome step."

Earlier today, the Duke and Duchess officially opened Dundee's new V&A museum.The £80 million design museum on the banks of the Tay is part of a regeneration of the area.

During a speech ahead of the opening, the Duchess of Cambridge talked about the importance of communities working in partnership to achieve common goals.

She said she hopes: "the museum will serve as an inspiration to others, showing how great things can be achieved when different communities all pull together."

The Duchess of Cambridge allowed a young girl to play with her hair whilst meeting crowds at the museum. Credit: PA