POLICE in Northern Ireland who have been dodging the bullets during the recent riots will soon be safer thanks to a Malvern firm.

Lorica Research has produced the world's most-advanced body armour, which can protect against gunfire, stabbing and even shrapnel from a bomb.

It is already being used by some British special forces, the Saudi Arabian interior security services, and is now to go to the police service of Northern Ireland.

Every one of the service's 15,000 officers will be issued with a £450 vest during the next five years.

Digby Dyke, director of Lorica Research, said: "We know for certain that our vests have saved lives and it gives a tremendous feeling of satisfaction to think that something we have created will protect people."

The Ministry of Defence is currently evaluating the material for use by Britain's own armed forces.