THE Government's marine science agency, based in Lowestoft, has signed a new contract for the provision of future vessel and gear management services for its research vessel RV Cefas Endeavour.

THE Government's marine science agency, based in Lowestoft, has signed a new contract for the provision of future vessel and gear management services for its research vessel RV Cefas Endeavour.

The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas) agreed a six-year contract with P&O Maritime Services (UK) Ltd to provide services for its 72-metre research vessel which supports the full breadth of Cefas's marine science activities.

Dr Richard Judge, chief executive, said: 'We are pleased to have reached agreement with P&O Maritime Services. The contract means that we will continue to enjoy high-quality vessel and services management, important contingency support and flexibility that enables us to optimise the vessel's use.'