CONVERGENT Telecom, the Pocklington-based mobile telecommunications service provider, has signed a two-year deal to provide international construction and engineering giant Costain with a comprehensive new mobile phone network.

The deal is thought to involve a six-figure sum, although the exact value is being kept under wraps, but it is the biggest since Convergent won the contract to supply telecommunications services to Microsoft UK last year.

The 650-connection deal will allow Costain to operate its own private hand-held internal telephone exchange for use throughout its various sites in the UK.

It includes new handsets and associated hardware, bulk airtime, and, unusually, full mobile integration with the company's existing BT FeatureNet system - the company's landline-based virtual exchange.

There are no immediate plans to increase the 240 staff at Convergent's Pocklington headquarters, Blenheim House, on the A1079 York Road, but the possibility is not ruled out as the deal progresses.

Costain is one of the UK's largest contractors and a major force in the international construction market.

Martin Orrells, Costain's supply chain manager, said: "Convergent Telecom has the experience, skill and knowledge which we require.

"Our industry depends on effective communication and many of our people are on sites rather than in offices, so mobile technology is essential."

Under the deal, Costain will be supplied with wholesale airtime on the O2 network, handsets, hands-free car kits, and related hardware, in a package which links into Costain's existing BT FeatureNet landline exchange.

Lloyd Conway, of Convergent Telecom, said: "The innovative aspect of this arrangement is the extent to which we have worked to integrate the mobile communications with the company's existing landline network. Our package will result in call spend savings for Costain on both landline and mobile calls."

Mr Conway said the package had been carefully tailored to meet Costain's needs. "We looked at creating various opportunities for them, and we are offering a comprehensive package, which includes account management, a guaranteed service level agreement, and ongoing support."

Tony Farmer, chief executive of Convergent Telecom, said: "I am delighted that we have secured another high-profile customer.

"The Costain contract proves that Convergent Telecom has the resources, the ingenuity and the people to enable it to compete with the biggest players in a rapidly consolidating market place."

Updated: 09:05 Tuesday, April 01, 2003