Election 2017: Helmet gift for cabinet minister Elizabeth Truss after Thetford factory visit

It is often said that politics is a rough game where all sorts is thrown at candidates of all parties.

But now a Thetford company has given a cabinet minister and Norfolk parliamentary candidate a bit of extra protection from incoming political fire – with the gift of a new helmet.

Centurion has been a global expert in head protection since the 19th century, when it produced helmets for miners.

Its hard hats are now the headwear of choice for industrial workplaces across the globe.

So when Ms Truss visited the company's headquarters in Howlett Way, Thetford on Thursday, May 25 in the heat of an election campaign – when politicians take flak from all sides – the helmet seemed like a worthwhile addition to her wardrobe.

During her tour of the factory, the South West Norfolk candidate saw helmets being made using hi-tech machinery.

The yellow one she inspected looked more suited to the Liberal Democrats the Conservatives – but Centurion chief executive Jeff Ward carefully chose one with a blue design for her to take away.

The justice secretary was impressed by the present but said: 'I'm not sure if it'll protect us from eggs being thrown at us.'

It is, however, perhaps likely to make one former Conservative colleague jealous – George Osborne became well-known for posing for photos wearing a hard hat during his time as chancellor.