NATIONWIDE Autocentre is to buy 50 service centres from the AA.

Nationwide, which will increase its number of centres to 227, will be appointed Approved Service Provider for AA members and customers, nearly doubling the number of the service centres available to AA members.

The centres will also provide recovery points for AA patrols and fleet maintenance for the AA's own vehicles.

The deal is expected to be completed within weeks. Financial arrangements are not being revealed at this stage.