SOUTHAMTPON-BASED A&P Group, operators of the city's massive King George VI dry dock, has clinched a major long-term contract with one of the biggest names in shipping.

The company has won a major deal that covers a dry-docking and repair partnership with Italy's Grimaldi Group of Naples.

This follows the successful completion of dry-docking and refit operations onboard three Grimaldi owned roll-on/roll-off vessels at the A&P Southampton shipyard in the Western Docks last year.

The three vessels that established the relationship - Repubblica di Amalfi, Grande Mediterraneo and Repubblica di Roma - were delivered on time by the UK specialist in ship repair and maintenance, to meet Grimaldi's strict requirements in terms of programme, quality and cost.

The signed agreement also incorporates the marine services available from A&P Shipcare and the Helifusion Engineering division.

Giancarlo Coletta, Grimaldi purchasing director, said: "With this agreement Grimaldi Group expect a further increase in vessel reliability, punctuality and frequency by means of dry-docking optimisation and extended maintenance support in UK and north European ports."

He added: "This will be an additional added-value to our transport service in line with the company's quality policy and objectives.''

Mark Giles, A&P Group sales director, said: "The signing of the agreement is another major cornerstone in the group strategy of achieving growth in the marine services sector either through optimised dry-docking periods or quick response afloat and in service work, utilising the company's UK networkof facilities.''