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It's fitted with a Transcrete body capable of pumping concrete 150m horizontally or 10m vertically. Concrete is poured into a hopper on the Isuzu then discharged to wherever it is required.

“The vehicle's compact size means that it does not create an obstruction if we are working in crowded city centres,” says Des O'Neill. “That usually means that we do not have to apply to close the road while concrete is being pumped, thus saving our clients time, inconvenience and expense.”

Supplied through Isuzu agent Warrington Vehicle Centre, the newcomer looks set to remain in service with O'Neill's for the next four to five years.

Elsewhere, an NQR 7.5-tonner has gone into service in Wiltshire with the 9,500-acre Longleat Estate's forestry department. With a projected working life of from 15 to 20 years it's fitted with an all-aluminium fabricated and welded tipper body with cab roof-height removable sides and an equally high tailgate.

“It's delivering a range of forestry products such as firewood, wood chips and mulch to customers within a 20 mile radius of the estate,” says deputy land agent, Paul Grugeon. Other loads will include Christmas trees.