It is one of the biggest fleet deals announced this year. BT already operates the UK's largest fleet of Transits at 20,000 vehicles and is now adding another 7,000 diesel Escorts and 4,000 diesel Fiestas. The communications giant runs a total of 36,000 vans, purchased outright, on a three or five year cycle.

BT's head of group motor transport Chris Morley said: 'For BT to deliver world class service to our customers, we need world class support from our suppliers. The Ford light van range has proved ideal for our operations with class-leading whole life costs. I am pleased that Ford continues to show its commitment towards a long term partnership with BT through this latest deal.'