THE development of a new generation "solid state" on-train closed-circuit television security system has helped rail industry supply business Joyce-Loebl win a £2.1m order in Portugal.

The Gateshead business beat off competition from 11 competitors across Europe to win the contract with Metropolitano de Lisboa.

The operator of the metro system in the Portuguese capital, Lisbon, will purchase security systems for installation in 339 rail cars, and Joyce-Loebl is also negotiating the supply of a three-year maintenance contract for the system, worth an additional six-figure sum. Graham Walker, international project manager at the firm, said: "This order represents a milestone for us, with the introduction of the latest generation CCTV monitoring equipment.

"It is also our first 'turn-key' project, in which our team in both Portugal and the UK has worked with the customer from design through to installation to produce a product to Metropolitano's precise requirements."

Joyce-Loebl expects to start delivery of the system early next year, with the project expected to run for almost two years.