Prince Andrew learned during his recent visit to the city that Bradford-based supermarket group Morrisons had boosted local businesses to the tune of £105m this year.

The royal visitor was briefed by Roger Owen, Morrisons’ group property director, that Britain’s fourth largest supermarket used a wide range of local companies for goods and services throughout its operations.

Mr Owen told the Prince that Morrisons used the services of several Bradford companies, including Pitts Wilson and N G Bailey for electrical services, and Mitton Mechanical Services, Butterfield Signs and George Barker Refrigeration for various contract works.

Gordons solicitors and quantity surveyors Rex Procter & Partners, provided professional advice on projects throughout the country.

Mr Owen said following the company’s acquisition of Safeway in 2004, the volume of work had enabled the contracting companies to set-up new regional depots and the success generated spun back into Bradford.

Roger Owen said: “Prince Andrew was very interested in our commitment to Bradford and I also explained we had invested over £80m within the city boundaries in the last four years, including our new corporate headquarters which we decided should remain in Bradford.”

Mr Owen said through its business rates and council tax payments by staff and contractors working for the firm, Morrisons more than covered Bradford Council’s highways budget for the current financial year with more than £2m to spare.

He said: “This is a phenomenal contribution to the city and one which we are proud to make, more so in these times of financial hardship.”