MARGARET Thatcher’s impact on British industry might spark fierce debate, but in 1980 she received a warm welcome from staff at the Wilton Carpet Factory.

Stephen Devlin, who joined the company in 1974, and is the company’s materials manager today, remembers her visit.

“I suppose there was an air of excitement that someone that important was visiting us,” he said. “But even in those days, before any of the major issues, she split opinion.”

Mrs Thatcher toured the factory and met staff, showing a particular interest in the carpet dyeing area where Mr Devlin worked.

“She had studied chemistry and really knew her stuff,” he said.

“No matter what they thought of her, everyone was very polite and made sure she was made welcome.”