STRATHCLYDE Police has implemented a new policy to have any of its broken down vehicles repaired at the roadside by the AA, rather than have them towed to its own workshops.

The force believes the new strategy will reduce the amount of time its vehicles are off the road. Under a six-month pilot scheme, the AA will provide a roadside service for the force's 1,200 vehicles.

Strathclyde Police head of transport, Richard Flint, said the deal would significantly save on police time. 'On many occasions when our vehicles are at the roadside awaiting repair it's because of a flat battery or a wheel nut that's stuck. This deal will significantly save on police time.'