DARLINGTON engine maker Cummins has won another major contract that continues a remarkable turnaround in its fortunes.

The order from vehicle maker Alexander Dennis for an initial 170 environmentally- friendly engines is the latest boost for the North-East manufacturer, which shed 400 workers and drastically cut its production schedule two years ago during the depths of the global recession.

Cummins’ recent revival has included a contract to supply low-emission engines and exhausts for the 21st Century version of the iconic red London Routemaster bus.

Earlier this month, Cummins announced it was taking on more workers to help make 7,000 engines that will power delivery trucks in Brazil and construction vehicles in China.

The order from long-standing customer Alexander Dennis is part of the £160m upgrade to the bus fleet of First Group.