DOMINO'S Pizza in Swindon is heading into space to solve the problem of pizza delivery drivers getting lost.

Working in partnership with Global Positioning Systems manufacturer Navman, the nationwide Domino's chain is researching a system that will once and for all put an end to pizzas going missing in action.

The pizza delivery company has found that some unusual emerging trends are preventing its delivery drivers from easily identifying their customers' homes.

Now, plans are being made to tackle the issue with the help of some smart technology.

Bernadette Eddisford, project manager for the hi-tech initiative, said: "The majority of late pizzas are the result of lost delivery drivers who have been hindered by obscured door numbers, houses with names, longer driveways, higher security gates and an increasing number of new home developments.

"That's why we tasked our Test-Base experts to find a simple solution that will help us to deliver on time, every time."

The Domino's Pizza Test Base is the company's nerve centre for developing new systems to improve pizza delivery efficiency and its latest breakthrough has involved the creation of a system shoe that can be worn by delivery drivers on mopeds, in cars or on foot.

The Bluetooth and system-enabled shoe will be able to pin-point pizza delivery staff's exact location via satellite.

This information will be transmitted to the delivery person's bluetooth headset, providing precise directions.

Delivery drivers will automatically be advised on the best route to take to their next customer via the General Packet Radio Service system based at the store.

John Whitehead of Navman said: "Recent developments in global positioning technology are enabling all types of applications to be considered and as the data and technology evolves, it won't be long before this type of service becomes commonplace."

Siggy Wilberg, franchisee of the Domino's outlet in Old Town, said: "It's a fantastic breakthrough.

"Our delivery people do get lost because some houses are very difficult to find. In places like Elmore and Collings-mead it's a nightmare.

"So this would help us enormously," Mr Wilberg said.