STATE-of-the-art body armour developed by a Malvern firm will be protecting police officers across the Midlands from the autumn.
West Mercia Constabulary has awarded a £1 million contract for the supply of about 2,700 dual-purpose stab and ballistic resistant vests to Glasgow-based firm Second Chance Body Armor UK.
The company uses armour composite material developed by Lorica Research Ltd, of Malvern.
The man who invented the material is scientist and Lorica boss Digby Dyke. Mr Dyke works out of his Malvern home and the firm also has an office in Leicester.
He said he was thrilled with the news, as Lorica will receive royalties from the manufacturer of Second Chance's vests, although he declined to reveal the extent of the financial rewards.
"It's important and significant," he said. "It's not the biggest order, but it's definitely important to us."
Mr Dyke's material will be protecting officers throughout Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin and Worcestershire.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article