Scottish meat processor Malcolm Allan has opened a new processing plant in Larbert, Falkirk council, creating 35 new jobs.

The new plant, which secures the future of 125 existing full time employees, will increase the company's capacity by 50% as well as enable supply to English stores.

The company has received £1m grant from the Scottish Government's Food Processing, Marketing and Co-operation (FPMC).

Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead said, "Scotland's meat manufacturing sector serves up great benefits to the Scottish economy, generating turnover worth £1.2 billion and employing 7,300 people in 2011.

"This particular expansion is great news for the firm and for the sector, and shows how committed the Scottish Government is to helping Scottish businesses grow and expand to create a more prosperous nation."

Malcolm Allan managing director Gordon Allan said that the company has experienced a surge in sales in recent years and the move to this new facility will allow it to not only meet demand, but to also significantly increase capacity significantly as it look to grow the business further.

"The Scottish Government's Food Processing, Marketing and Co-operation grant has been pivotal in allowing us to develop and expand, and we are delighted that the Government is continuing to show support to the industry," Allan added.