VAUXHALL'S Special Vehicle Operation (SVO) is to supply the Government of Trinidad and Tobago with 100 specially converted Astras.

The police specification Astra 1.4i automatics have been converted by the Biggleswade-based unit and will be used by the islands' police forces. The Vehicle Maintenance Company of Trinidad & Tobago (VMCOTT) placed the order as it is keen to modernise and grow its police fleet.

As part of the deal, senior officers will use a specially equipped and armoured Omega 3.2i V6 supplied for escort duty.

Vauxhall SVO managing director Brian Tavener said the contract was a result of a recommendation made by the Thames Valley Police fleet manager Ian Godolphin to the Government of Trinidad and Tobago.

VMCOTT chief executive David Bartholomew said: 'This is the first time in the Caribbean that police vehicles and not civilian vehicles will have been imported for the police force.'