THIS really is the fastest milk float in the west - and the north, south and east as well.

An electric milk float designed in Rogerstone achieved the inaugural world speed record for the type of vehicle - notching up an impressive 73.39mph.

The team behind the Electron E150 from VXL Automotive, part of the Rogerstone-based Symonds Hydroclean group, achieved the record in a race against a rival England-based team.

The company took up the challenge laid down by Midlands-based Electric Dreams at Bruntingthorpe Proving Ground, near Leicester, and they easily saw off the opposition, who could only manage a paltry best speed of 52mph.

Martin Rees, Electron team leader, said they had been working on the £50,000 Electron E150 project for the past two months.

"We are very pleased but I am sure some are quite surprised for a milk float to reach such speeds," he said.

"This really was a team effort and we have benefited hugely from the help and support we have received from all over South Wales."

Bridgend-based dairy Golden Vale is considering placing orders for the vehicle. Mr Rees added: "I am hopeful that we will see a lot more of the vehicles very soon in the streets."

* The Electron's next appearance will be on display at the Newport v Pontypool rugby match sponsored by VXL Automotive Limited on September 6 at Rodney Parade, Newport.