More than 700 employees, former employees, relatives and friends enjoyed a programme of tours, exhibits, games and entertainment – and a free lunch.

The event was arranged to mark the 100th anniversary of Cooper's split roller bearing and visitors were invited to try their hand at assembling a bearing.

Employee John Dickerson beat all-comers and completed the challenge in less than three and a half minutes, the fastest previous time being three minutes 52 seconds.

Other attractions included a chance to see the gleaming Cooper Car made for the directors in 1909. Children and adults enjoyed trying a new sport, ped-ball, which involved kicking a ball through the hole in a bearing pedestal.

Director of human resources and administration, Mr Paul Leggett, said the day was a great success: "Everyone enjoyed getting together socially, meeting and chatting and having fun together."

More than £430 was also raised in aid of The Norfolk Hospice Tapping House, which has been chosen as the company's charity for 2008.