EAST Lancashire was visited last night by officially one of the fastest men in the world former holder of the land speed record Sir Richard Noble.

Sir Richard, who was most recently the brains and driving force behind the first car to break the sound barrier, Thrust SSC, although not the driver, gave a talk in Nelson to some of the leading figures in East Lancashire business.

The British legend was guest of honour at the event, held at the Advanced Manufacturing Centre, Bancroft Way, Burnley, and gave a talk on inspiring businesses.

Sir Richard, using colourful slides and videos, brought to life his quest to break the sound barrier, and held the audience spellbound for more than two hours. The event had been organised by John Getty, head of the Advanced Manufacturing Group, a collective of local businesses. Mr Getty is also chairman of PDS Engineering, Nelson, and a close friend of Sir Richard. He said the event would prove manufacturing in East Lancashire is alive and well.