Much more than a luxury drive is riding on the new Rolls-Royce which will be unveiled to the public today.

Only 29 Rollers were sold in Britain during the first 11 months of last year.

The new model is the first to be built at Chichester and is a modern version of the traditional Rolls, which for years was the ultimate symbol of motoring luxury.

Its reception will help decide whether the Goodwood plant continues and thrives or whether it was an expensive aberration by its German owners.

Sussex will be hoping the new model is a big success. It took courage to build the plant in a sensitive area of the county but it is also an area steeped in motoring tradition with the nearby Goodwood race track.

If the plant succeeds, it will provide much-needed permanent employment and bring millions of pounds into the local economy.