MCNICHOLAS, an Elstree-based utility company, has ordered a fleet of 100 Volkswagen LT35s and 40 Transporters.

The vans, supplied under a contract hire agreement with Newtown Vehicle Rentals, will initially be used over a 36-month period and many have been adapted to carry generators and specialist equipment used across the utility sector.

Ian Gray, managing director of the McNicholas plant and transport division, said: 'We made a decision to hire the Volkswagen vans after extensive trials. The LT35s are good all-rounders and will be used throughout the group, enabling us to provide our clients with a quality service at a competitive price. The Transporters will operate exclusively within our CableComms division working on installations.'

McNicholas provides services to the gas, water, electricity, rail and telecommunications industries and will use the vans as mobile workshops throughout the country.