DIGGER drivers battling to cope with freezing conditions are getting a cup of winter cheer from JCB.

Not content with creating a new flagship range, the company's designers have also devised the world's first digger with an in-cab hot water dispenser to make the perfect brew.

And if that's not enough, the new JCB backhoe loaders are also equipped with a cool box, heated front windscreen and power brakes.

The idea for the digger with the in-cab hot water dispenser came about after JCB conducted research with customers and operators across the UK and found having the ability to make hot drinks easily on freezing cold days was very important.

Tim Burnhope, JCB's group managing director for product development and commercial operations, said: "Driver comfort is paramount and we are always looking at new, innovative ways to improve things.

 "We have a proud tradition of product innovation and being first to introduce the latest technology and this is just another example.  In fact, we believe it's a world first."

All of JCB's new 3CX and 4CX Eco backhoe loader models are now available with an optional hot water dispenser, capable of producing tea, coffee or soup, which locks securely into an area at the side of the cab.

The machine uses the 12V supply directly from the machine and has been designed to fit into the existing cab layout.

JCB has spent more than £20million on its new range and each digger costs from around £47,500.

As well as the new look creature comforts the machines also come with plenty of energy saving features including the company's new EcoDig hydraulic system, which utilises three hydraulic pumps and can help cut fuel costs by up to 16 per cent, saving customers up to £3,536 over three years.