PAC 4 Drivers Ltd News!
______________________________________  

 

August 2011

 

PAC 4 Drivers Ltd Choose Red Rose Training Centre for Driver CPC Courses!!!

Red Rose Training Centre

Red Rose Training was founded 20 years ago and has since built a desirable reputation within the industry for our professionalism and commitment to customer service. We are proud of our high standards which provide quality training designed to give you the best possible chance of success.

We own and operate a modern fleet of vehicles covering all large vehicle driving categories together with a wide range of fork lift trucks. All this equipment enables us to offer a comprehensive portfolio of training that is unequalled anywhere in the UK.

Employing over 35 staff we are dedicated to providing a level of service which is the envy of other operators.

Our instructors are fully qualified, highly motivated with wide experience in their chosen field. The friendly and efficient approach of our support staff is always on hand to offer any guidance or assistance – you only have to ask!

We understand the needs of today’s competitive job market and consequently provide training that results in the most widely recognised qualifications. Improving your skills is a wise investment for your future. Our aim is to ensure your investment pays dividends by widening your career prospects and increasing the opportunities available to you.

Convenient access to the motorway and rail networks, making our centre in the heart on The North West easy to locate. We welcome visitors at any time and should you wish to check out our facilities, please feel free to call in.

We look forward to welcoming you to Red Rose Training.

http://www.redrosetraining.co.uk

 

 

Agency Workers Regulations 2010

The Agency Workers Regulations 2010 have now been published and are due to come into force on 1 October 2011. The Regulations give new rights to agency workers after 12 weeks' work and prohibit detrimental treatment or dismissal of agency workers on the ground of their status.

Under the Regulations:

 Agency workers will be entitled to the same basic working and employment conditions as those employed directly by the end-user ("hirer") on completion of 12 consecutive weeks in the same role for the same hirer.

 In calculating the 12-week qualifying period, breaks between assignments or during an assignment will not break the continuity if they are for not more than six weeks or are for one of a number of specified reasons, including sickness or injury, pregnancy, childbirth or maternity or maternity, adoption or paternity leave.

 Basic working and employment conditions are those relating to pay, working time, rest breaks and annual leave. Pay for these purposes is any amount paid in connection with the employment or engagement and includes bonuses, fees or commissions that are directly attributable to the amount or quality of the work done by the worker and benefits in the form of fixed value vouchers or stamps. Pay does not include contractual payments relating to sick leave, pension, redundancy or maternity, adoption or paternity leave.

 Agency workers that have permanent contracts of employment with temporary work agencies, under which they continue to be paid the "minimum amount" when they are available to work but are not placed on an assignment with a hirer, are excluded from the right to equal pay. Under the Regulations the "minimum amount" that agency workers must receive during such period is pay equal to 50% of the highest level of pay that they have received within the previous 12 weeks of an assignment.

 Agency workers can claim compensation where they have been denied the terms and conditions granted under the Regulations. This compensation will be for an amount that the tribunal considers just and equitable taking into account the loss suffered as a result. Both temporary work agencies and hirers will be liable to pay this compensation to the extent they are responsible for the breach of the Regulations. The temporary work agency can escape liability by showing that they have requested the relevant information from the hirer, used it to determine what terms and conditions the agency worker is entitled to and provided those terms and conditions. If this is shown, the liability will fall solely on the hirer.

 There are express anti-avoidance measures. These address concerns that temporary work agencies and hirers would simply structure assignments by, for example, rotating agency workers to ensure that they never complete 12 consecutive weeks in the same role for the same hirer. Where a temporary work agency or hirer is found to be in breach of this provision, the tribunal is also entitled to make an additional award of compensation of up to £5,000.

 Agency workers will also have the right to access the same collective facilities and amenities as permanent workers and to be informed of any relevant job vacancies with the hirer. Collective facilities and amenities include staff canteen, childcare and transport facilities. There is no qualifying period for this right to apply and agency workers will be entitled to this from their first day. Liability for non-compliance in respect of this rests with the hirer.

 In order to assess whether or not they are suffering a detriment on the grounds of their status, agency workers will also have the right to request information

 

Latest fight against dodgy HGV drivers:  Police trucks marked like patrol cars 

They have long been the bane of drivers on the motorway.

But now dodgy lorry drivers are to be targeted with police's latest weapon - a truck decorated like a panda car.

The HGV cabin comes complete with blue-flashing lights and the blue and yellow liveried pattern that is used on regular patrol cars.

 

 

 

 

 

 

On duty: Met police will record wreckless HGV drivers while driving alongside them in the specially designed truck

But by using an unmarked truck themselves, police are at the same height and are able to film drivers which are then used as evidence.

The uniformed officer in the police wagon follows the drivers before pulling them over on the shoulder.

The Metropolitan Police's new HGV will be unveiled at Earl’s Court from next Thursday until Sunday as part of the Top Gear Live show.

 

 

HGV man opens Tyldesley transport cafe

HOW times change!

Traditionally known for their belly bursting fry-ups transport cafes were once most definitely not the healthy option.

Now ex-trucker Neil Leach has created The Oven Door on Mort Lane in Tyldesley and has shaken-off the greasy spoon image by offering freshly cooked food on the premises.

With a chef who was once the proud owner of Lowry's Coffee shop in Walkden, Salford they offer daily specials such as garlic chicken breast, cottage pie and hot beef dinner.

Proprietor Neil said: "After being a HGV driver for many years I realised there was a lack of healthy options on many truck stop menus and, any sandwich shops that did offer something lighter, had no parking. I tried to solve both of these problems by offering a great varied menu on a site with half an acre of parking space."

While the healthy options are vast all the old favourites are still on the menu. The team at The Oven Door have signed up to the council's healthy business agenda and now all their food choices reflect this.

"Customer satisfaction is our priority and since opening the doors I have seen trade steadily increase just from word of mouth which is the best review of all for a food premises," added Neil.

The Oven Door is open Monday to Friday 7:30 - 2pm and the daily special menu is written large on the side of the building.

 

HGV Insurance News ‘’Tired HGV Drivers on the Rise’’

Isis Insurance services, a specialist HGV insurance broker has noted a recent report commenting that HGV and lorry drivers are being strongly advised to take regular rest stops whilst on long journeys. Many HGV drivers admit to being sleepy on the roads yet continue to drive.

It concludes that driver fatigue is one of the biggest causes of HGV related accidents onBritain’sroads. A recent survey has found that 74% of drivers interviewed over the last 12 months have confessed to driving whilst tired, with 9% of those admitting to being sleepy at the wheel at least one day a week. This is a substantial increase from a previous survey conducted some years ago when only 46% of drivers confessed to being tired when driving.

It is estimated that as many as one fifth of fatal accidents on major roads are caused by tired drivers. Of course it is possible that the figure could be much higher as it is difficult to establish if a crash was caused as a result of a driver falling asleep. However, typically accidents involving driver fatigue can be typified as high speed crashes because the drivers are unaware of the fact they need to break quickly. The risk of fatality or serious injury is therefore far greater.

Despite the seriousness of this matter, a majority of drivers are still unaware of how often they should take regular rest stops whilst on the road and what steps they should take to prevent the possibility of sleep involved accidents.

Recommendations to prevent incidents include

 Take a break every two hours on long journeys.

 Pull over somewhere safe to rest at the first signs of feeling tired.

 If possible drink caffeine.

 Don’t rely on air-con or an open window to keep you awake.

 Stop to take a short power nap.

 On lengthy drives find somewhere to stay overnight and get a good night’s sleep.

As with all walks of life, HGV drivers are at risk whilst on the roads and applying these simple steps can help to reduce the number of accidents on the UK roads. Of course a positive result of fewer accidents should mean HGV drivers should see cheaper HGV insurance and that can only be good news for everyone.

 

Fair FuelUK.com Campaigners Visit No.10

The letter, signed by Mr Halfon, pulled no punches. "High fuel taxes aren’t working", said Mr Halfon. "Not only are our road freight industries being crushed, but foreign road freight operators continue to expand their operations in the UK at the expense of domestic hauliers as their rates of duty are up to 24 pence per litre less than their British counterparts".

Today’s lobbying exercise was to request Government consideration for two proposals:

· To initiate an inquiry as to why pump prices do not fall when the price of oil decreases

· To abandon the inflationary duty rise planned for January 2012 which will have the potential of adding 4 pence per litre to the price of fuel. If the cost of filling a tank becomes easier to bear, this could result in higher tax revenue for the Treasury.

"Today has been about bringing the critical issue of rising fuel prices to the very heart of government", said FTA Chief Executive Theo de Pencier. The cross party support we have amassed shows there is a real political appetite for fuel tax reform and that this is matched in constituencies around the country.

"Fuel is the biggest single cost for transport operators and unless the government acts to relieve the pressure faced by hauliers and other businesses we could be in danger of seeing more redundancies and more insolvencies in this beleaguered sector."

RHA Chief Executive Geoff Dunning added: "This is an issue that we, as an industry have to keep fighting for. The effects of an increase in fuel duty will have a catastrophic impact on the economy and on an industry that is finally recovering from a financial meltdown.

"We, together with FFUK, will continue to press the message home until; quite literally, we as an industry see the penny drop".

 

HGV Driver found dead ‘’Carbon Monoxide Poisoning’’

A HGV driver found dead in his lorry was poisoned by a camping stove he was using to keep warm at night.

The Polish Driver had been sent on a delivery job to England, leaving his four-year-old son with his ex-wife in Poland, and slept in his HGV to save money.

The lorry was parked on Avro Way, near Manchester Airport, An inquest in Manchester heard how the camping stove used to keep warm was not faulty but should only have been used outdoors.

Health and Safety Inspectors said the lack of oxygen in the HGV meant the cooker produced more carbon monoxide than usual.

The vehicle had no inbuilt heater.

Air vents in the HGV were blocked by a fire extinguisher and an engine air intake, On the night of all windows were sealed.

Police broke through a window of the lorry when the driver did not respond to attempts to catch his attention; Police officers were immediately hit by a stench of gas.

The HGV driver’s body was discolored. A toxicology report later revealed extreme carbon monoxide poisoning.

Recording a verdict of accidental death, coroner Nigel Meadows said he will be writing a report to the police to prevent future deaths of this kind, urging checks on heating systems in HGV vehicles.

He said: "It is common for vehicles to be stopped for routine examinations and I see no reason checks on heaters should not be added to these.

"Just because this happened once does not mean it won't happen again. It is Murphy's Law."

Health and Safety inspectors said he will be urging delivery companies to ensure heaters are installed in their vehicles and that vents are not blocked.

"Carbon monoxide poisons you without you realising it. It just sends you to sleep. This driver’s case illustrates that it is not wise to be using cooking stoves for heating."

 

6ft hole appears in residential Bury road used as short cut by HGV drivers!!!!!!!!!

A road used as a rat-run by lorry drivers has collapsed, A 6ft deep and 5ft wide hole appeared in tree-lined Hollins Brow, Bury, Council workmen repaired the crater over the weekend but the road was closed for more than 24 hours. The incident comes just a month after a police operation to capture truck drivers flouting a new law banning them from using the road and adjoining Croft Lane.

In February, residents of Hollins Village won a seven year fight to stop vehicles over 7.5 tonnes travelling on the roads, the route is used by heavy goods vehicles heading to and from the M66 at Pilsworth, Andrew Taylor of the Hollins Village Community Association, said: "I was alerted at about 2.30pm on Friday. The road collapsed near the top of the hill outside the stables, near the mini roundabout.

"It could be down to a combination of wear and tear on the road, the recent rain damaging the drains, and Lorries which are heavier than 7.5 tonnes still using the road.

"There have been a couple of recent police operations which have targeted Lorries. I have reported some companies.

"I had a positive e-mail from a firm in Somerset in which they apologised after one of their drivers used the road in lorry that is banned due to its weight – but that may be because I told them I had also informed the police and Traffic Commissioner."

Two years ago Croft Lane was closed for several months as major repairs were carried to the road surface. Residents had complained vibrations from passing trucks was rattling windows and shaking the foundations of their homes, After the weight restriction was imposed in February there were several weeks of calm but then residents complained to police that HGV drivers were still cutting through to the M66, Police staged a three-day operation in April and stopped 32 lorries. Nine were allowed in the area as they were delivering goods rather than passing through.

But 23 breached the regulations and were each fined £30 for driving in the area.

Eight were fined £170 for driving for too a long a period without a rest; and seven £60 each for using a mobile phone at the wheel.

Four Lorries had mechanical faults – three relating to brakes.

Hollins Brow was closed to traffic in 1983 due to fears that it could collapse under the weight of heavy traffic on its way to the Pilsworth Industrial Estate.

 

HGV lorry becomes trapped next to Manchester Road

THIS lorry got stuck next to a busy Huddersfield road, The HGV was trying to get down the narrow Birkhouse Lane, which connects Crosland Moor and Paddock, yesterday afternoon, but the lorry became stuck on the lane, which is just off Manchester Road. The driver was heading to a factory in Paddock to make deliveries.

Warning: HGV Drivers Being Targeted By Fraudsters

There is a new trend by insurance fraudsters to target HGV drivers for crash for cash fraud. We have spoken about crash for cash fraud here at Track Compare before, but now new reports have been issued that suggest HGVs are now the new focus for this type of crime rather than cars.

The reason HGV drivers are being targeted by these fraudsters is very simple. HGVs are an easy target and they can gain five figure sums from insurance payouts on accidents with HGVs.

Some of the places worst hit by this type of crime are in the North West and include towns such as Manchester, Liverpool, Oldham, Blackburn and Chester; although the city at the very top of this list as the worst place for crash for cash crime is Birmingham.

This form of crime is costing the UK millions every year and needs to be stopped. Not only does it cost the country a lot of money, it is also dangerous. Many drivers who have been victims of this crime have emotional scars.

Many of these accidents are caused by the fraudster slamming on the breaks in front of a lorry so that it runs into the back of them. They then claim for injuries and car damage. Often the claim will be for injuries to people who were not even in the vehicle at the time. The average cost to the insurance company for this type of fraud is £30,000, Some haulage companies have started fitting CCTV to their cabs. This is a great way to overcome the problem of their word against the fraudster’s word. By installing a camera you have proof of how the crash happened and in some cases how many people were in the other vehicle or vehicles at the time.

 

Drunken trucker who crashed lorry onto railway line loses his job!!!!!!!

A lorry driver who was over the drink-drive limit when he plunged his HGV down a 20ft embankment has lost his job after being banned from the road for 16 months.

The HGV Driver was more than one-and-a-half times the drink-drive limit when his juggernaut smashed through a dry stone wall and down the grass embankment to a railway line. The incident forced Milnrow Road in Shaw, Oldham, to be closed for several hours while the lorry was recovered.

The Driver from Blackpool, admitted driving with excess alcohol and driving without due care and attention at Oldham magistrates court, Prosecution told the court: "The Driver lost control.

"Luckily the railway line was not in use due to the Metrolink conversion. He told police he’d had a couple of bottles of wine the previous night."

Ian Owen, defending, said: "For 28 years he has earned his living from driving. "The night before the incident he’d had some wine at home in Blackpool with his partner. "He was working for a driving agency at the time and was due to drive the following day.

"He was under the impression he would not have to set off for work until 6am but he received a call in the night saying they needed him to get to the base in Preston for 4am."

The Driver, who broke five ribs in the crash, has now lost his job.

A breathalyser test showed he had 56 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millimetres of breath; the drink-drive limit is 35 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath.

Defending said: "the driver is a man of previous good character who cares for his partner of 16 years who suffers from rheumatoid arthritis. She will face difficulties getting about now as none of them can drive."The Driver told the magistrates: "I regret what’s happened and it will not happen again. I’ve spoilt my livelihood and I’ve spoilt my partner’s livelihood. I just want to put it behind me." Dangerous

chairman of the bench, said: "Any offence of drink-driving is dangerous but when you’ve got that weight and size of vehicle it becomes a big problem.

"You’re a professional driver, you should know better and you should understand the law."

The Driver was disqualified from driving for 16 months. His sentence will be reduced to 12 months if he takes part in a driver rehabilitation course.

He was also fined £100 and ordered to pay £100 court costs.

 

Driver advice for RHS Tatton Show-goers - July 2011

The Highways Agency is reminding drivers using the M56, A556 and M6 in Cheshire that the annual RHS Tatton Show is taking place later this month.

The show is taking place this year between Wednesday, July 20 and Sunday, July 24 – and drivers travelling through the area or to the show itself are being urged to plan ahead and check traffic conditions before setting out

The Highways Agency is advising that many drivers heading to the show will use the M56, A556 and M6 during part of their journeys to the event at Tatton Park, near Knutsford.

It is also advising drivers heading to the show to stick to any signed routes to minimise the chance of delays.

The Royal Horticultural Society’s website – www.rhs.org.uk – features full information about the show including public transport options and advice for drivers.

John McTaggart, Regional Operations Manager in charge of the Highways Agency’s North West Traffic Officer Service, said, "This is a long-standing and very popular event in the region’s summer calendar and we always encourage show-goers as well as other drivers to check before they travel.

"As usual Highways Agency Traffic Officers will be monitoring the motorway network to respond to any incidents and we will also be setting signs to advise drivers of any problems.

"Drivers can help themselves by checking travel conditions before setting out and by ensuring they are prepared in the event of a breakdown or being stuck in traffic in the warm weather."

 

Lorry crash caught on camera

This is the terrifying moment a lorry driver came face-to-face with a motorist driving the wrong way down a dual-carriageway.

The female driver of the Vauxhall Corsa is seen joining the busy A90 in Scotland via the exit slip road. She then swerves to avoid one lorry leaving the road and ends up heading straight into the firing line of the other juggernaut.

The Corsa driver then turns away from the 44-tonne truck and collides with the first lorry.

The driver of the second lorry loses control of his truck which rolls onto its side, spewing cement bags all over the road.

Amazingly, no one was injured when the incident took place last Tuesday outside Aberdeen, with the whole event captured on the lorry drivers Road hawk GPS camera system.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Grampian Police shut the road for six hours while highway workers cleared

 

McDonalds BANS HGV drivers

 

 

 

 

McDonalds appear to have brought in a blanket ban at night (drive-through) and are now refusing to serve HGV drivers, who have to park up and walk-through the drive-through, wearing high visibility clothing.

Obviously a drive-through is not for people, up until last night this has never been an issue and as far as I am aware, no-one has been killed buying the burger.(obviously eating the burger is probably the great risk tohealth). What is the big deal you may well ask? Well for an HGV driver at night, there is virtually no cooked food available and McDonalds is about all that is going. In this cold, icy weather even junk food is sometimes necessary and better than nothing. Would they refuse to serve a trucker who became stranded in the snow? Last night HGV drivers on the road were left hungry, I hope none of them had an accident due to McDonald’s new policy. HGV drivers have to abide by extremely strict European working time directives, after 4 1/2 hours driving they have to find a place of safety for the vehicle and stop, the driver has no choice in this. They can't just nip to the next 'stop' as they would be driving illegally, and fully responsible for the potential tragic consequences.

French Wagon Driver!!!!

This is the moment a French lorry driver had a sinking feeling after his sat-nav kit directed his HGV – on to a public beach.

The hapless driver got his articulated lorry bogged down on a sandy beach after being wrongly led to the popular beauty spot.

 

Lorry overtaking ban halts ‘elephant racing’

The Highways Agency has doubled motorway and dual carriageway trial sites where Lorries are banned from overtaking, but should they be introducing a blanket ban?

The end of elephant racing is nigh! The Highways Agency has doubled motorway and dual carriageway trial sites where Lorries are banned from overtaking, and introduced a permanent ban on a section of the M11. But should they be introducing a blanket ban?

The clampdown on slo-mo overtaking manoeuvres by Lorries limited to 56mph – dubbed elephant racing by frustrated motorists – will come as a relief to drivers squeezed into a crowded outside lane or, worse, forced to follow the sluggish passes on dual-carriageways.

Targeting hills and stretches of high HGV concentration, the three new trial sites will all be active within the next two weeks and force lorries to stay in the inside lane during daylight hours. The three are: 

• A mile-long uphill stretch of the A34 near East Ilsey, in Berkshire. 
• Just south of Junction 9 on the M11 near Saffron Walden in Essex. 
• A section of the M20 coming out of Dover in Kent. 

The latest permanent ban is introduced on two sections of the A1M in Co Durham, which joins two other no-overtaking zones on the M42 near Birmingham and two sections of the A14 in Northamptonshire near Cold Ashby. 

There’s no doubt the trials have been successful. The A1M sections, the Highways Agency reports that non-lorry traffic was an impressive 17 percent faster during morning rush hour traffic, while travel times for lorries "was not adversely affected" said a spokesman. 

The widening ban has been welcomed by the AA. "There are very definitely stretches that would be improved," said Andrew Howard, head of road safety. However he said that UK drivers would want the Highway Agency to go further. "A total ban would receive 100 percent support from the motorist."

 

September 2010

Sat - Nav causes lorry to get stuck beneath bridge!

An articulated lorry became stuck beneath a Peterborough railway bridge after its driver received the wrong information from a sat-nav on Tuesday afternoon. Oundle Road was closed between London Road and Grove Street for about two-and-a-half hours after a B&Q lorry with a double decker trailer got stuck under the bridge near Peterborough United’s ground at 2pm.

The driver told police that his sat-nav said the bridge was 16ft 6ins tall but it is actually 15ft 6ins tall. Police and Network Rail managed to remove the lorry after deflating its tyres and reversing it out. The bridge remained open to trains as the situation unfolded and sustained no structural damage.

The lorry driver was being questioned by police last night. A B&Q spokesman said: “We prepare preferred routes in advance for all our double-decker lorry drivers to avoid the need to travel under bridges and prevent this from happening.

I fell asleep at the wheel!!!! (A Drivers Short Story)

The 42-year-old was unaware he suffered from Obstructive Sleep Apnoea. Last week, MPs called for action after a poll showed one in SIX lorry drivers have the condition.

With 300 deaths caused every year by drivers falling asleep at the wheel, the wake-up call didn't come a moment too soon. The lucky lorry driver said: "I opened my eyes to find myself veering off the hard shoulder.

"I got the shock of my life. I had fallen asleep and nearly killed myself. "I stopped at the nearest services, had a wash, a coffee and a walk around to wake myself up, but I was shaking so badly. "Thank God it was 5am and there wasn't much traffic. I hate to think what might have happened otherwise."

Around 30,000 people in the UK suffer from OSA, but it's thought up to 90 per cent of all cases remain undiagnosed.

Sufferers are unaware that their symptoms are a sign of a serious breathing disorder that can be easily treated. The Driver had been a fitful sleeper for years.

RHA advocates rounding up the cowboys

The UK road network suffers from one of the highest congestion levels in Europe. Therefore, safe driving practice is of paramount importance at all times. Road traffic accidents simply make a bad situation worse

“The incidences of bad driving as highlighted in today’s press should serve as a warning to ALL road users, not just those behind the wheel of a heavy goods vehicle”, said RHA Chief Executive Geoff

Dunning. “As far as we are concerned, driving without due care and attention is totally unacceptable behaviour”. The Road Haulage Association, through its ‘Rounding up the Cowboys’ campaign is committed to making the road freight industry safer and more efficient.

“We are the single most important industry sector within UK plc. We are an industry that is not only responsible for its actions; we must make drivers and operators themselves responsible for their own actions.

“The UK’s Traffic Commissioner Network has the responsibility to grant HGV driving licenses based on a driver’s conduct. They are also entitled to take that licence away should the driver be found guilty of irresponsible, unsafe driving or driving an unroadworthy vehicle. “The instances of poor driving standards in today’s newspapers represent reprehensible behaviour on

the part of the drivers concerned,” continued Geoff Dunning. “Although we consider this appalling behaviour to be the actions of a minority of drivers, it is nonetheless a significant minority. These drivers MUST be made aware of the penalties they can incur – a hefty fine or the removal of their license.

 

Companies fail the fuel efficiency test

British businesses are squandering millions of litres of fuel because employees don’t drive company vehicles efficiently. According to a survey, poor driving technique, inaccurate fuel gauges and bad record keeping are all contributing to companies being unaware of the real consequences of their fuel usage.

The research by leading telematics expert Trimble MRM found recent hikes in petrol and diesel prices is the biggest challenge facing fleet managers today. The drive to make business more fuel efficient is forcing fleet managers to take a long hard look at their vehicles and driver behavior.

Trimble says the right driver feedback technology can make an average commercial vehicle up to 15 per cent more efficient.

“As fuel prices rise, understanding where fuel is being used the most or unnecessarily wasted is crucial for businesses,” says Andrew Yeoman, MD of Trimble MRM.

“Guesses on fuel card and mileage logs are at best problematic and open to mistakes or abuse. The key to achieving fuel savings is real-time data from individual vehicles linked to a specific driver.”

“To put this into simple terms – a heavy goods vehicle which drives 60,000 miles a year at eight miles to the gallon could see a saving of £6,142 a year at today’s fuel prices,” says Yeoman.

The emergence of new diagnostic solutions allows businesses to draw information directly from each vehicle and report on faults, performance, and exactly where fuel is being wasted. With exceptional accuracy, companies can also receive information on individual driver behaviour patterns, such as speed, style, braking or acceleration, giving fleet managers a real insight into which

employees need additional training or to regulate their behaviour.

“It’s not about being Big Brother,” says Yeoman. “And it’s also not about penalising workers who drive for their jobs – far from it. It’s about the bigger picture which is helping increase productivity in a costly environment.”

By identifying drivers who do need to make changes, managers can focus on making improvements for the minority rather than taking a broad approach across an entire company – which can be time consuming and expensive.

“Multiply this across a fleet of 1,000 vehicles or more, and the savings are significant.”

Bid to attract young lorry drivers

From September 18-year-olds will be allowed to drive Lorries. Until now the minimum age for LGV drivers was 21 but the age has been lowered across the EU to try and encourage more young people into the industry.

18-year-old Adam works for his Dad's waste company. He's been helping out, knowing it would be a while before he got to drive the Lorries himself. Until now. He said: "I was over the moon that I could do it. It's just better money, it's just better everything. It means more responsibility."

An extra qualification has also been brought in to give more training to those wanting to get their licence. It's called a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (Driver CPC) and all professional lorry drivers will have to hold one.

Adam says the lessons are hard: "They make you reverse into really tight gaps, it's quite nerve-wracking.

"You've got to drive around narrow streets, you feel a bit worried about what you're doing. But it's all good."

Experience

So even with all this extra training, is 18 still too young to get behind the wheel of a vehicle this size? Adam doesn't think so: "I should be alright because I've got more driving experience anyway.

There are no boy racers behind the wheel of an HGV truck but there may well be behind the wheel of a souped-up hatchback Jo Tanner from the Freight Transport Association "Driving this means I should be a better driver for later on in the future."

Jo Tanner from the Freight Transport Association (FTA) doesn't think it's too young either. She said: "You don't get many people trying to do a hand-brake turn in an HGV. It says there are a lack of positions out there now.

Jo says this should improve once the recession's over: "Sadly there have been an awful lot of redundancies in the industry, so when the recession is over we're concerned there'll be a severe skills shortage because the older drivers will have gone into retirement.

"So having these younger drivers come in now and get trained up, so they'll be ready and raring to go when the jobs are there, is great news."

Find somewhere good to stop

Truckstops are vital rest areas for lorry drivers and help ensure safety for all road users. This interactive section aims to help lorry drivers and freight transport operators plan their journeys. Drivers need to take regular rests knowing that they are safe and their vehicle and loads are secure.

The guide uses Google Maps to identify resting places for truck drivers across our network, along with details of the service facilities available at each stop. Use the link below!

http://www.highways.gov.uk/knowledge/13659.aspx

 

EU ponders new HGV trailer heights

The European Union is considering introducing a four-metre height limit on new trailers, as part of new European Whole Vehicle Type Approval regulations.

Haulage operators across Europe have expressed concern that the height restriction would increase running costs There is widespread concern that the move may hike running costs for operators and damage business prospects for trailer makers Most States in the EU have four metre height limits and few are likely to worry about what they may see as a small change to tie up a loose end.

 

Woman drives an HGV through male tradition

Think of long-distance lorry driving and the sort of image that springs to mind is a Yorkie barmunching, bearded man wearing a string vest. But that isn't always the case.

WHAT do you get if you cross a glamorous 27-year-old blonde with a 45 foot articulated lorry? The answer is trucker Rhian Hughes, of Clayton-le-Moors. She is one of just a handful of women — fewer than 10 per cent to be precise — to get behind the wheel in the male-dominated haulage business.

Following in her dad’s footsteps, the petite mother-of-two has just about every type of vehicle listed on her driving licence. She can drive wagons of every size, tow hazardous goods and while on maternity leave Rhian gained her HGV operating licence, which means she can also run her own haulage company.

“I love it, “said Rhian, the only female driver at family business Earl Transport, Clayton-le-Moors. “It’s a great feeling, being so high up, cruising the roads. And it’s so funny when you pull up next to other drivers or another trucker. They can’t believe it. The look on their faces is hilarious.

“When I did my latest HGV test, I had a real sense of girl power, “said Rhian, who could drive a car at the age of 14 and first drove her dad’s truck at 17.

“I remember when I was waiting in the test centre with all the guys, you could tell they were wondering what I was doing there. And I was the only one who passed that day,” she laughed. Since a very young age Rhian has always been a tomboy, although you’d never know it to look at her.

She enjoys shopping and loves a new bargain but, for her, nothing beats getting behind the wheel of an HGV. That and her latest hobby — renovating custard yellow 1972 VW Beetle.

“I’m such a bloke, aren’t I?” she laughed. “I’m always at the yard, whether I’m working on the Beetle or driving the trucks. I do like to be a girl. I’m good at shopping and I have my nails done. I might not look it but I’m a real tomboy.”

One day Rhian, who previously worked as a manager at Holland’s Pies, will run the haulage company, based in Blackburn Road, Clayton-le-Moors, but she will never stop driving the trucks. Once a rare sight on British roads, women lorry drivers are gradually increasing in number. Better technology has made the driving easier and, along with female-friendly policies, is helping to erode what was once a male preserve.

Two teenagers die in head-on collision with lorry

Two teenagers died and a third is fighting for her life in hospital after a head-on collision with a lorry. The boy and girl, both aged 16, were passengers in a blue Honda Civic which hit a DAF heavy goods vehicle on Dawes Lanes in Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire, at 4.46pm on Saturday.

The car was travelling from Scunthorpe to Brigg when it hit the HGV, which was travelling in the opposite direction. Both teenagers, who were from North Lincolnshire, died at the scene, while a third 16-year-old, who was also a passenger in the car and is also from North Lincolnshire, was flown by air ambulance to Hull Royal Infirmary suffering life threatening injuries.

The HGV driver, a 30-year-old North Lincolnshire man, was taken by ambulance service paramedics to Hull Royal Infirmary, where he is in a serious but not life threatening condition, police said. The 18-year-old car driver, from North Lincolnshire, was arrested in connection with the accident, in which he too was seriously hurt.

Police, the ambulance service, fire brigade, air ambulance and rescue crews from the nearby Corus Scunthorpe steelworks all attended the scene. Humberside Police are appealing for witnesses to the accident, which happened on a private road leading through the steelworks, to which the public has access.

A police spokesman said: "Officers would like to speak to anyone who witnessed the collision or either of the vehicles before the collision. In particular, we would like to speak to the driver of a silver car which was overtaken by the blue car involved in the collision on Dawes Lane prior to the collision."

The teenagers who lost their lives will not be named until family members have been informed, the spokesman said.

The World’s Smallest HGV Vehicle

The world’s smallest HGV has been built by Professor Mildred Nbongo at Teenytech Electronics Hull, a leading Nanotechnology Company in the field. The sub-atomic sized miniature lorry complete with articulated cab, tiny silver bumpers (front and rear), and microscopic, fully functional solid oak trailer, is capable of speeds reaching 0.000001 MPH and can carry loads of up to one millionth of a nanocrumb.

The tiny truck has an incredibly small diesel engine, complete with 4 puny pistons and does a breath taking 40,000 mpg.

Former policeman injured in HGV accident backs cycling safety campaign

Former policeman injured in accident with HGV backs cycling safety campaign A NEW cycling awareness campaign is being supported by an ex-policeman who was almost killed after being hit by an HGV lorry seven years ago.

Keith Graham, 59, of Upton, Wirral, is supporting the “2 Way Street Campaign”, and is hoping to raise awareness among both lorry drivers and cyclists to create a safer environment for all road users.

The campaign was launched last week by Russell, Jones and Walker solicitors, who successfully recovered compensation for Mr. Graham, and the Cycling Touring Club of which he is a member.

He said: "In a way, it's for the whole country because cycling is increasing. “I think normal motorists are aware but for wagon and HGV drivers we want to give them more information. “The campaign is also to make cyclists just as aware as other road users, and make them more confident on the roads."

Keith was cycling home through Tuebrook, in November, 2003, when the accident happened. He said: “I'd been on a training course and was cycling down Green Lane, towards West Derby Road, to get the ferry home."

"I remember absolutely nothing, just being bowled over. The next thing I remember was probably on Boxing Day." "It was horrendous. My families were put on death notice and there were many operations but without them I probably wouldn't have survived."

Months of rehabilitation followed and Keith now uses a wheelchair to move around when he goes outside. Despite his injuries, Keith continues to enthuse about cycling and is attempting to introduce more people with disabilities to both cycling and football.

He said: "I'm hoping that the campaign will take off but I'm also in the Liverpool Disability Supporters Association and the National Association of Disabled Supporters and want disabled people to get back into cycling.”

Keith also believes that cyclists should be given more protection and has urged Liverpool city council to act in that regard. He said: "I certainly think, as far as Liverpool is concerned, there is a need for it and I know the city council have been trying to reduce the number of vehicles in the city.

Police Use HGV to film Lorries Breaking the Law!!!

 

Please do not use your mobile phone whilst driving

phone. Are

A 31-year old HGV driver saw three penalty points knocked off his licence after being caught by police using a hand-held phone while driving his DAF. The Driver was fined £123 and ordered to pay prosecution costs of £35 and a £15 government surcharge.

 

 

July 2010

VOSA to have power to stop vehicles without police help

VOSA will have the power to stop vehicles it suspects of overloading, driving hours or cabotage offences without the assistance of the police if a consultation is approved later this year.

The proposals, which will be open to consultation until 13 August, would create specialist stopping officers appointed by the Secretary of State for Transport who do not need to be individually accredited by chief police officers.

VOSA would have the power to stop foreign and domestic vehicles and drivers to carry out compliance inspections throughout the UK including, for the first time, Scotland, where VOSA has not had the power to stop vehicles before.

The same powers would extend to Driver and Vehicle Agency examiners in Northern Ireland Philip Hammond, Secretary of State for Transport, says: "These plans will help VOSA to enforce the rules governing the amount of domestic work hauliers from outside the UK can undertake, helping to make sure that UK operators do not face unfair competition for business.

"The new powers will also free up police time as VOSA will be able to operate more independently." Currently VOSA inspectors have the power to stop a vehicle only if they suspect there is a breach in compliance, but the proposed change to the law would see VOSA being able to proactively stop and inspect vehicles without the need for police assistance.

The Department for Transport estimates that the retraining of 16 existing VOSA staff to become stopping officers, as well as the purchase of seven specialist stopping vehicles, would cost £340,000. Its annual running cost would be £83,300. It estimates a total cost saving to the police of £2.88m.

Diabetic drivers: update

A major change to UK legislation preventing people from driving lorries if they have diabetes look likely to be delayed due to bureaucratic inflexibility. Almost a year on from a ground-breaking order that allows diabetics who treat their condition by injecting insulin to finally pursue a career as an HGV driver, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is apparently still no closer to amending the law.

This is despite there being no consistent evidence that people with insulin-treated diabetes are at any greater risk of causing accidents than the non-diabetic population. This shameful situation has led to widespread confusion and uncertainty within the haulage industry and beyond, into the medical establishment and diabetes charities as well. More pertinently, it has left drivers in limbo, and forced them to wait even longer for the green light from the government that allows them to apply for Group 2 licence entitlements. Owner-driver Archie Meechan describes the situation as "unbelievable". He lost his licence 20 years ago after he was diagnosed with diabetes, and since then he estimates he has lost 70% of his work. He currently drives a 7.5-tonne and often has to undertake multiple runs to complete a single order.

Meechan says when the law finally changes the first thing he will do is try to get a larger vehicle: "I am restricted to 7.5-tonners at the moment, which causes problems," he explains. "I would say maybe 60% of my work I have to do in double-runs. If I'm given 10 to 20 pallets of whiskey to deliver to one customer, I have to take half and then come back for the remainder." Last August, the European Commission gave all member states a year to individually assess diabetics of their fitness to drive HGVs by bringing "into force the laws, regulations and administrative provisions necessary”.

But it seems this was not long enough for the UK. When CM asked the DVLA last month if it was in the process of amending the current laws, a spokesman said: "DVLA cannot guarantee the timeframe for the introduction of any potential change to the medical standards because of the consultation and legislative process in the UK." Further information from the government agency has not been forthcoming.

The spokesman denies that the general election stalled the legislative process, but in an email (seen by CM) from one diabetic expert who sits on the DVLA's advisory panel, he says: "Because [government departments and agencies have to shut down] during the election run-in, this matter has not been ratified as yet." Other panel members were invited to comment on the situation, but they have declined, despite acknowledging the industry's interest. Another diabetic driver who is frustrated by the DVLA's lack of action is Roy Craigie. He argues that nine years ago a similar situation resulted in a much swifter resolution: "They could bring this in within three months if they wanted, or even overnight more or less. In 1998, the 7.5-tonne entitlement for insulin-dependent diabetics was taken away. Then, in 2001 there was a fuss about it and within a few weeks it was reversed. There was a quick turnaround."

This argument appears to be backed up in minutes from medical advisory panel meetings, which show that discussions on this issue took place in October and November 2000 with an agreement reached to relax the outright ban and allow individual assessment of 7.5-tonne licence applicants. The change to C1 licences then went ahead on 5th April 2001, six months later.

The change in the law will not open the floodgates for diabetics to get behind the wheels of trucks. Only those that treat themselves with insulin injections will be considered, and only after a rigorous independent assessment has been carried out by a clinical diabetologist.

It is a course of action that many hauliers wholeheartedly agree with. Alan Morgan, at Shropshire-based CV sales and repairers Alan Morgan Commercials, describes the situation as "so wrong, it's ridiculous”. Morgan, who also has diabetes, says he probably loses a day's work every week: "I have to find other people to do it, which are a cost to me, but I don't depend on it for my life like other people.

"I am perfectly capable of driving," he continues. "It should be assessed on a one-to-one basis. I have never had a hypoglycaemic attack in my life. If you have them, then yes, you shouldn't have a licence. It's up to the doctor, not the DVLA. If they say no, then fine; go and do something else. "The DVLA are not letting you live your life as you should - they are just assuming."
The change in law will only consider those that treat themselves with insulin injections If the UK fails to introduce the change in the law by the end of August, the European Commission (EC) says it can take "whatever action it deems appropriate in response to either a complaint or indications of infringements which it detects itself".

The procedure normally begins with a "letter of formal notice" to the member state, requesting information about why it has failed to introduce the Directive. It can then send a "reasoned opinion" to the member state, demanding it complies within another specified period, which could be a week or less. The EC says it tries to resolve problems without resorting to the European Court of Justice (ECJ), and even if it does, it has to bring a case

Anyone can lodge a complaint against a member state with the EC for failing to comply with its Directives. An EC spokeswoman adds that it has not been informed by the UK that it could fail to meet the August deadline, nor is it aware of any delays

Time to watch the weight

With fines of up to £5,000 for each offence, there should be sufficient incentive for drivers and operators to comply with overloading regulations. Yet since VOSA (Vehicle and Operator Services Agency) began issuing graduated fixed penalties in May last year, excess weight has been the most common offence, along with faulty brakes. And research published last month by the Department for

Transport (DFT) found that 7% of 44-tonners were recorded as being overloaded by weigh-in-motion equipment.Tim Ridyard of Barker Gotelee solicitors points out that a basic O-licence undertaking clearly states that there must be a satisfactory arrangement to prevent overloading before the vehicle sets off. "But operators and drivers often don't even know what load the vehicle can take." Drivers and operators are both liable to prosecution if a vehicle is overloaded on gross weight or axle weight. One cause for confusion is that the design weight of each vehicle and its axles, shown on the manufacturer's plate, sometimes differs from the legal maximum for these, shown by the DFT or 'Ministry' plate. Whatever the reason for overloading, the consequences can be severe. 

Jeremy Fear, a London-based transport lawyer, explains that if a vehicle is overloaded by more than 50%, drivers face three penalty points on their licence for driving a vehicle in a dangerous condition. "If prosecuted twice in three years, you are off the road for six months," he adds. In addition, the offence is likely to attract the attention of the Traffic Commissioner if the case exposes weaknesses in the regime to prevent overloading. 

Peter Woodhouse of Stone King Sewell solicitors says VOSA is more likely to prosecute in such cases. He warns that it is unsafe to assume an overload of less than 5% will escape court action. He recalls a case where an operator was prosecuted after failing to take into account the vehicle driver's weight of 23 stone. "It had worked on the basis of its drivers being between nine and 14 stone."Sometimes the consignor underestimates a load's weight and the driver has no immediate means of checking whether this is correct. A consignor/carrier/consignee accord drafted by the Road Haulage Association and the Freight Transport Association (FTA) attempts to give some responsibility for preventing overloading to the consignor

In Ireland, a new law allowing consignors to be prosecuted for overloading has had minimal impact, according to Vincent Caulfield, president of the Irish Road Haulage Association. "The Guardia [the Irish police force] take the view that it's up to the driver or owner of the truck to implicate the company that loaded it. We're extremely disappointed it has been used so little."

The FTA says it is rare for consignors to be summonsed to court in the UK. Even when they are implicated in overloading, the operator or driver will not escape blame. This is because there are only two statutory defences against overloading: the vehicle was going to or from the nearest weighbridge or the vehicle weight had increased in transit, perhaps by the load absorbing rainfall. Andrew Woolfall of Backhouse Jones solicitors says one approach is to challenge the way the vehicle was weighed. "If weighed using weigh pads, for example, it has to be done within strict tolerances in terms of the ground. "He warns that fines for overloading are unpredictable. "The courts that do a lot of VOSA work tend to be more receptive to the arguments of hauliers and fine at the lower end of the scale."

Although sentencing guidelines for magistrates make clear that any fine for drivers should be based on their weekly income, he says it is unclear how this principle applies to operators. "Magistrates have fumbled around in the dark," he comments. Fixed penalties issued by police and VOSA are set at £60 for overloads of less than 10%, £120 for overloads of between 10% and 15% and £200 for overloads of at least 15%.

Sentencing guidelines for magistrates state that in cases where the overload is no more than 10%, fines should range between 25% and 75% of "relevant weekly income" for drivers and between 125% and 175% for owner companies. The guidelines also state that the fine should be increased by 10% for every 1% increase above a 10% overload.

 

Veteran driver stripped of HGV licence for Tachogragh fraud!

A driver who used a magnet to interfere with his vehicle's digital tachograph equipment has had his HGV licence revoked and been disqualified from holding or obtaining one for three years.

In a written decision following a driver conduct hearing in Glasgow on 22 December 2009, Richard McFarlane, Scottish deputy traffic commissioner, said Neil MacDonald, 61, from Tarbet, Argyll, had taken the "conscious decision to interrupt" the true operation of tacho recording equipment and was therefore "involved in a deception" .

MacDonald, an HGV driver for 35 years, had been loading grain for Tarbert-based haulier B Mundell at the Baird's Malt facility at Pentcaitland, East Lothian, on 5 November 2008. On the journey back he was stopped near Dalkeith by VOSA traffic examiner Clark Laidlaw.

The examiner inspected the vehicle and discovered a magnetic coat hook was attached to the sender unit of the gearbox, effectively "freezing" the signal to the tachograph recording equipment.

MacDonald explained that the sole reason he had used the magnet was to save 10 minutes on his journey time and make sure he could attend his grandson's fireworks party in Tarbert. Michael Whiteford, representing MacDonald, said he believed it was the first and only time his client had used the magnet.

MacDonald admitted it had been "the most stupid thing he had done in his life" and that it had not occurred to him that using such a device could result in the loss of his licence. The Deputy TC said revoking MacDonald's licence would provide a "strong deterrent" to drivers not to use devices such as magnets to interfere with tacho readings in the future.

RHA survey reveals average HGV driver's wage

The average hourly rate for an HGV driver with a category C+E licence is £8.25 per hour and the average gross income is £493.45, according to the Road Haulage Association (RHA) national survey of pay and conditions.

 

The self-employed avoid WTD regulations

Attempts to bring owner-drivers under the Working Time Directive have faced a further setback with the European Parliament's Transport Committee rejecting a fresh proposal to include them. The directive has been under review since last year, with the Employment Committee leading on the matter.

Today, the Transport Committee voted on proposals presented by its rapporteur (sponsor), MEP Said El Khadraoui. As well as including self-employed drivers, he also proposed extending drivers' hours regulations to business vehicles under 3.5 tonnes and setting up a European information exchange system for working time data.

The vote on the draft opinion was split 20-20, plus one abstention and El Khadraoui agreed to withdraw his report. Many MEPs have been at loggerheads with the European Commission since last year. The introduction of the Road Transport Directive in 2005 was dependent on owner-drivers being granted derogation until March 2009.

The EC now believes it is impractical to police the working time of self-employed drivers. It wants to focus on the false self-employed, such as drivers who are not free to organize their own work; whose income does not depend on profits made and who cannot work with several customers.

It also wants to redefine 'night work', so that the definition only applies if work has been carried out for at least two hours within the period of 00.00 to 07.00.

At present, 'night work' is any work carried out in that period. "We support the EC's proposals," says Chris Yarsley, European affairs manager, Freight Transport Association. "We do not support restrictions on vehicles under 3.5 tonnes. The proposal on night work gives drivers greater flexibility. If you get caught on a motorway you won't automatically slip into night work when something unexpected happens."

The Employment Committee is due for another vote on the review of the Road Transport Directive. It is then likely to come before a plenary session of the European Parliament.

Equality Act brings new worker rights

Operators need to be aware of new rights for employees that come into force this October when the Equality Act 2010 takes effect.

The act brings disability, sex, race and other grounds of discrimination within one piece of legislation. Road transport companies will need to take into account the fact that HGV drivers are required to undergo regular medical examinations after the age of 45 and that certain conditions such as epilepsy and abnormal eyesight preclude work in the profession.

Other changes include a new 'justification' test where employers must meet a higher threshold to justify their actions if they dismiss someone, particularly if the employee has a disability.

The act will also discourage employers from asking about an applicant's health, including disability, at the interview stage unless the enquiries are for particular permitted purposes, and employers can be held responsible for harassment of their employees by third parties, such as customers or suppliers.

There’s an app for this: Tachograph guide now available for the iPhone!

Tachodisc's iPhone, Transport Legislation Guide app, which was unveiled at the Commercial Vehicle Operator Show in April, and released for distribution shortly after, now contains the first of its promised legal updates.

The app provides a comprehensive means of accessing almost every imaginable query relating to drivers' hours legislation, as well as associated topics such as Driver CPC training. The latest update includes scheduled changes to Operator Compliance Risk Score bandings, proposed changes to speeding offence penalties, a warning over a Driver CPC scam and a reminder that the first digi-cards issued are about to expire. The Tachodisc app and subsequent updates are free from Apple's App Store.

Parking – Loading & Unloading

HGV drivers often struggle to find the space to park their vehicle safely and legally before they unload their trailer for a delivery. This is especially the case when the load’s destination is a business in a city or small premises which does not have adequate parking facilities.

The Road Traffic Regulation Act (1984) first enabled councils to enforce certain parking acts. These were then dealt with and action taken through the criminal court system. The Road Traffic Act (1988) has a section on stopping on verges or in dangerous positions that outlines what is deemed to be an offence for HGV drivers. But it was the Road Traffic Act (1991) that brought about a number of key changes. The most important of these changes was the decriminalization of parking offences so that they no Basic parking rules

Loading and unloading may take place in a loading bay usually marked on the road. Vehicles can remain in these normally for a maximum of 20 minutes. Parking bays can be used for loading/unloading for up to 20 minutes without payment. If vehicles intend to remain there for longer, they should make payment if required.

Loading bays are indicated by short yellow lines at right angles to the kerb. Double lines indicate no loading at any time whilst a single line indicates that loading is restricted depending on the time. Vehicles should not be parked with any wheels on the pavement unless loading/unloading could not be carried out otherwise and the vehicle is not left unattended at any time

HGV’s will be banned from village roads

SOON to be a scene from the past: Heavy traffic on London Road

Lorries will be banned from Alderley Edge in a bid to restore the area to its village roots once the bypass is opened. The move heralds a bright future for residents and drivers who have been campaigning against heavy vehicles for years.

Parish councilor Mary Maczkowiak, who has lived in the village all her life, said the weight restriction was a ‘long time coming’ in the village. She said: "I’m so pleased about the weight restriction.”We need to show we are serious, these Lorries have no place in our village."We’ve been worried about

Lorries for years, the height of HGVs means poor visibility for drivers and accidents happen. "It’s a great step, but we need to make sure it is enforced properly and are working with highways and the police to discuss this."Parish councilors met with CEC highways officers to discuss traffic arrangements in the village once the new road opens next summer, if not earlier. They agreed there should be a weight restriction set on either side of the village and directions to encourage drivers to use the new Alderley Edge and Nether Alderley relief road instead.

How I can get HGV class 1 experience if nobody gives me a chance?

I held license for 9 mounts and I am 22 years old is any of these a problem?

PAC Say’s; 

Both are against you I'm afraid. At one time Clients looked at how long you'd held your licence, now they want to see evidence that you've actually used it. The other big problem you have is your age as many insurance companies insist on a minimum limit of 25. Anyone younger than that incurs a premium on the insurance costs.

How can you get around these problems? 

Without knowing where you live or if you have any trucking background it's difficult to give clear advice but the basics are.

1. Don't be too picky as there are many different types of Job assignments you could be offered, the type of work i.e., tippers, general haulage, builders merchants, road sweepers, shop deliveries.

2. Make sure you are available to the agency as much as possible, this will enable the temp controllers to source you as much as possible and have your digi card and some kit with you. at all times when you are available to work.

3. Give the agency time, they we are as keen to get you out to work as you are to find work.

4. When an opportunity does arise then don’t mess it up by turning in late, or failing to turn up!

 

RHA behind HGV Manchester Congestion Charge fight

The Manchester congestion charge is due to come into force in 2013. The RHA is urging any and all HGV operators that work in and around Manchester to strongly oppose the congestion charge and to not give up their fight.

Earlier this year, a spokesperson for the Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive said that HGV drivers have until the 10th October to get their voice heard if they feel they should not be forced to pay the charge.

Under the current proposals, the DFT, which is overseeing the proposed scheme through the TIF (Transport Innovation Fund), announced that HGV’s will pay the same charge as cars.

“The original proposals included a provision that trucks would pay more than cars. I believe that it is because of the RHA’s pressure before the formal consultation that they now propose to set the charge at the same rate as cars: so we have made a little progress. Having said that, we have not yet given up on the possibility of trucks being exempt, and we are currently urging our members to oppose the imposition of this charge.

Trucks are being treated in exactly the same way as cars, with no recognition of the fact that they deliver the goods that the city’s economy needs. Also, trucks generally cannot choose a travel time, as customers dictate delivery times. The charge is irrelevant to trucks as the whole point of the scheme is to change people’s behaviour and get them out of cars.”

HGV driver cleared in lorry push probe

A HGV driver has kept his licence and been hailed a hero after a freak accident in which his tanker was filmed pushing a car sideways along a motorway. John Tomlinson was praised by the Traffic Commissioner for staying calm in the near-disaster which was filmed by another driver and put on

YouTube. Mr Tomlinson’s solicitor, road transport expert Sean Joyce, is a partner at Stephenson Solicitors LLP. He said: “After an extremely thorough investigation by West Yorkshire Police into this incident, they have concluded that my client is innocent and he has been wholly vindicated of any wrong doing.

 

 

 

April 2010

PAC 4 Drivers Ltd wins contract work for Eddie Stobart!

I can gladly announce that we are currently servicing Eddie Stobart Ltd; this is an illustrious contract and a fantastic opportunity for our drivers to work alongside one of the leading Transport & Distribution companies in the World.

Paul Cain

Managing Director

 

Survey shows increased use of mobile phones whilst driving!!

Results from a survey conducted earlier this year in Manchester showed that there has been a significant rise in drivers of all vehicles using hand-held mobile phones. The use of mobile phones was reported to be the highest in Greater Manchester.

From 2007, there has been a rising inclination towards the use of hand-held mobile phones. This became prominent with the introduction of increased penalties for using mobile phones while driving. In addition to this, there has been an increase in the use of hands-free phones, especially for taxi drivers, ever since the first survey was conducted in 2006.

Survey results show that drivers who use mobile phones while driving are four times more likely to end up in an accident. BBC Breakfast News’ Richard Scott opted for a test run in the car driving stimulator to gain personal experience on how easy it is to get distracted when using mobile phones.

Outcomes of his drive along with Dr Nick Reed, an analyst from TRL, showed the dangers of driving and using a mobile phone at the same time. The test also included the level of impairment that is caused due to texting while driving.

 

 

M60 resurfacing scheme

A resurfacing scheme on the M60 between junctions 19 at Middleton and 23 at Ashtonunder- Lyne in Greater Manchester starts on Friday 7 May.

The project affects six miles of carriageway in both directions and is due to be completed in December.

The majority of the work will take place between 9pm on Friday evenings and 5am on Monday mornings when traffic volumes are lighter and disruption to drivers can be kept to a minimum. Work will be avoided during Bank Holidays and when there are any significant events that would create heavy traffic.

During the weekend closures the motorway will remain open with two lanes operating in each direction using a contraflow. For the safety of drivers and roadworkers a 40 mph speed restriction will be in place through the works, with average speed cameras in operation while we carry out this work.

There is also a need to carry out some overnight work on the central reserve between 9pm and 5am which will require occasional lane closures. A 50mph speed restriction will be in effect when lane closures are in place. Entry and exit slip roads will need to be closed occasionally. Diversions will be clearly signed. Overhead message signs will be used to provide information to drivers and the Highways Agency’s Traffic Officers will continue to patrol the area to react quickly to breakdowns or accidents and keep drivers on the move.

 

 

Navigation device to aid HGV Drivers

Satellite navigation is certainly not a new concept. This system has been in existence for several years and has been a massive benefit for HGV / LGV drivers as it can direct them towards the best routes for them.

However, in the past, there have been problems whereby lorries have got stuck down narrow paths or have taken routes that were not suitable for heavy vehicles, because they have followed their satellite navigation systems. Such problems have since been eliminated via the use a new satellite navigation device.

This system has been especially developed for HGV driving professionals. Tom Tom GO 7000 is the name of the innovative device. The navigation system has been provided by the Freight Transport Association and enables the drivers to avoid unfavourable paths. The unit aims to end incidents related to stranded HGV drivers.

 

 

HGV Reversing and Parking Tips!

As an HGV driver, it is important that you know the length, width, and height of your HGV when attempting a parking or reversing manoeuvre. You should be aware of your surroundings, and identify any potential hazards.

You should be aware of where you can park according to the Highway Code and local signposting. The laws are in place for your own safety and that of other road users. All HGVs must have their lights on when parked on the road at night and when parked in a lay-by as they are close to the road. When connecting or disconnecting a trailer, make sure that the parking brakes are engaged on both your HGV and the trailer. This will prevent your vehicle rolling away when connecting the air pipes or disconnecting the coupling. For your own safety and the safety of your load, make sure your vehicle is secure at all times.

Reversing your vehicle can potentially create a dangerous situation. You need to be aware of pedestrians, cyclists and other vehicles in the area and make sure they are aware you are reversing. There are audible devices that signal your vehicle is reversing – however, you always need to observe your surroundings before and during a reversing manoeuvre. 

A good tip is to use the assistance or banksman if available.

 

Blind-spot mirrors to be fitted to UK HGVs

Blind-spot mirrors to be fitted to UK HGVs (Bike Radar) Blind-spot mirrors will soon have to be fitted to all heavy goods vehicles in the UK.

Following a campaign by Cycling Plus magazine, the British Government has agreed to implement new EU legislation on the issue.

 

 

Sleep disorder ‘'Danger'’ of HGV Drivers

A lorry driver said to have the condition was jailed for a fatal crash. About one in six British HGV drivers suffer from a form of a sleep disorder requiring medical help, a study says. If left untreated, obstructive sleep apnea could lead to potentially fatal road accidents, according to experts.

Sufferers can experience obstructions of their airway during sleep, resulting in "fragmented" rest and excessive daytime drowsiness, they say. The Respironics study, to be featured on BBC1's Real Story, looked at more than 900 drivers in England and Wales. It was led by sleep scientist Melanie Marshall who said sufferers "are more lethal than drink drivers".

But the Road Haulage Association denied the problem was rife among HGV drivers in the UK. Obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA, is present in 1-4% of the population, mostly among middle-aged men, says the Royal College of Physicians. During sleep, the airway from the mouth to the lungs collapses either completely or partially, causing oxygen to be lost from the blood, which in turn creates "micro arousals".

"Sufferers are not physically aware of their awakenings," explained Ms Marshall, "but they can have hundreds of these over a period which leads to fragmented sleep." The findings of her research for Respironics could have serious implications for both the NHS and the road haulage industry. Crashes caused by drivers falling asleep at the wheel account for around one-fifth of accidents on Britain's motorways. 

In January 2002, lorry driver Paul Couldridge was jailed for eight years and banned from driving for life after killing an engaged couple in a pile-up on the M20 in Kent. Maidstone Crown Court heard Couldridge had already been told by doctors to stop driving because he was suspected to be suffering from OSA. He ploughed into a BMW on the opposite carriageway, having fallen asleep. He had nodded off in the cab of his vehicle 15 times on previous journeys, it emerged, causing minor accidents.

All drivers who were studied by Respironics were kept anonymous. Those who tested positive for OSA were given immediate treatment. The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine prepared the statistics and the results were studied by an independent monitoring panel drawn from UK medical and clinical posts and other professions. One in three participants were shown to have some form of OSA, with about one in six suffering from such a severe form of the illness that they needed treatment. With an estimated

500,000 HGV drivers on Britain's roads, if the pattern was repeated across the UK, about 80,000 could need help.

"I think the study actually highlights how much of a problem it is," says Professor John Stradling, a world expert in sleep disorders. "Unknowingly, they have this medical disorder which they have the right to be screened for or diagnosed with and treated, to actually make our roads safer." Real Story reveals that some truckers who suspect they may have the condition are too frightened to come forward - because once a diagnosis is given, their HGV license is suspended until they have been treated. In this time, they risk losing their job.

 

 

HGV recruitment agency ‘'found guilty of breaking legislation’’

Directors of an HGV recruitment agency have been found by a Tribunal to have breached the law and have consequently been banned from running an agency for up to a decade. The agency supplied drivers to hirers in Yorkshire and the North of England under various names.

However, directors David Allon, Marc Hedley, Sian Pemberton and Angela Roberts were found by Leeds Employment Tribunal to have carried out illegal practices such as withholding payment of wages to drivers and failing to check drivers had licences.

Minister responsible for employment relations Lord Young commented on the case: "Rogues like these give the recruitment sector a bad name so I am delighted to see the Tribunal's decision putting the brakes on their unacceptable behaviour." The legal action was taken by the Employment Agency Standards (EAS) inspectorate.

Misconduct was brought to the attention of the EAS by 26 complainants including drivers.

 

 

 

Please Drive Safely & Take your time, Don’t end up in one of these!

The crash took place as the Easter getaway began

12 people were injured in a pile-up on the M6.

 

 

December 2009

PAC 4 Drivers Ltd Join ‘’Blues in Business’’

‘’Blues in Business’’ exists to enable Manchester City supporters in business to network with each other.

· Match day networking events

· Other networking meetings

· Social events

· Directory promoting business between supporters

· Have some fun and raise some money for charity

---

ID Cards are on the way!

All PAC 4 Drivers Ltd workers will be required to carry a ID card as of January 2010,

this is a company installed policy, and must be adhered to, all workers will be

required to send PAC 4 Drivers Ltd, two passport type photograph’s which will be

added to the ID card and installed on our data base system, this will in turn be sent

out to you via the postal service.

Christmas Holiday Worker Payment Dates!

December 2009: 24-12-2009 and 31-12- 2009

Notice to all workers please ensure all timesheets and expense forms are sent on

time, failure to do so may result in late payments for work carried out.

___________________________________________________________________

Worker Information: Swine Flu Update!

The Cabinet Office has advised that the number of cases of swine flu is likely to rise

dramatically over the next weeks. The expectation is that the UK will see cases

continue to rise steeply over the next month reaching a peak in around four to six

weeks. Around 15 per cent of the workforce is expected to be affected at any one

time during the peak (which under this scenario will last around two weeks). Of

course, estimating the timing and scale of the peak is an inexact science –

Government is learning about the virus the whole time. The peak could well be

delayed by the hot, dry weather, or spread over a longer period (with less than 10

per cent of the workforce affected at any one time) by the school holidays.

The incubation period for swine flu is believed to be between one to five days

(compared to one to three days for seasonal flu). Those suffering from swine flu are

generally poorly for a week. So far the symptoms of flu have been milder than initially

anticipated. The advice to businesses is to encourage people to self-isolate if they

believe that they have the virus.

Workers who are worried about flu-like symptoms should stay at home please refrain

from work assignments and continue to contact their GP.

Thank You

PAC 4 Drivers Ltd

___________________________________________________________________

Low Bridges Accidents, could this be the answer?

Lorries hitting low bridges could be a thing of the past thanks to a satellite navigation

unit designed specifically for lorry drivers. The Tom Tom GO 7000, which is now

available from leading trade body the Freight Transport Association (FTA), makes it

possible for trucks to avoid narrow roads, low bridges and unsuitable routes,

hopefully bringing to end familiar stories of lorry drivers coming unstuck after using

sat-nav units designed for cars.

 

 

DHL- Exel Supply Chain & PAC 4 Drivers Ltd complete charity event for

The Christie Charity

‘’Towards a Future without Cancer’’

Following a fantastic effort from staff of DHL & PAC the bicycle

ride from Manchester to Birmingham was completed on

Saturday 19th September 2009

---

DHL Health & Safety meetings

PAC are now in attendance at DHL Health & Safety meetings held monthly, following the last meeting the topics that were discussed are as follows:

On site Health & Safety;
Driving licence checks;
Changes to onsite Training programmes;
Agency Ordits;
Introduction of VOSA regulation updates;

Training Schools

PAC are currently in discussions with a number of local HGV driver training schools, this is to enhance the current workers needs i.e. CPC, ADR, HIAB, a meeting is to be held on the 19^th May 2009, to discuss costs and availability of trainers, details to follow! 

---

PAC 4 Drivers Ltd Sponsors Local football Club!

PAC are now proud sponsors of Clayton Villa Football Club, As a Manchester based company we feel that having a presence in our local community is of high importance, full details are available on our Sponsorship page!

---

A Big Thank You

To all of our workers on behalf of PAC 4 Drivers Ltd for all the hard work undertaken by a very special workforce and long may it continue! Well done to all concerned.

Paul Cain

Managing Director  

---

Driver CPC News                               

A driver without a CPC, or who fails to carry their CPC qualification card while driving, faces a £1,000 fine. For smaller companies with no more than a couple of dozen drivers, there seems to be no great urgency. But for larger haulers faced with organising training for hundreds of drivers, while causing minimal disruption to the business, there will be little time to waste.

With just months to go before the introduction of the new Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (Driver CPC), opinions remain divided over what impact it will have on the UK Transport road industry.

Many in road haulage still feel it is little more than window-dressing, an exercise rooted in ticking boxes rather than actually transforming drivers' standards. In contrast, there are those who see it is a genuine opportunity to prove once and for all that the road transport industry is capable of not only maintaining high standards, but also proving it can do so.

Under the new regulations, from September, all new drivers must complete a Driver CPC on top of their theory and practical LGV tests before they will be allowed to take to the roads.

All existing drivers then have until 2014 to complete a total of 35 hours of training, made up of 'blocks' of at least 7 hours long and delivered by accredited providers. That can either be via external training firms, or in-house trainers accredited to do the job.

Finally, VOSA and the Driving Standards Agency must be notified how much periodic training each driver has done.

---

New EU Hours Law

On April 11th 2007 Drivers' Hours Law Regulation 561/2006 will replace Regulation 3820/85. As a result, drivers and operators will face considerable changes.

---

How will the changes affect you?

Elements of the new Drivers' Hours Law are considerably more restrictive than the current legislation, so drivers and operators will be significantly affected. The main points to note are:

After a driving period of 4.5 hours a driver must take an uninterrupted break of no less than 45 minutes; however, this break may be replaced with a break of at least 15 minutes followed by a 30 minute break within the 4.5-hour period.

Permitted daily driving totals remain the same, 9 hours per day, which may be increased to 10 hours twice in a fixed week.

The weekly driving total must not exceed 56 hours, and in any two consecutive weeks must not exceed 90 hours.

Drivers must take a (regular) daily rest period of at least 11 hours in a 24 hour period, however this may be reduced to no less than 9 hours (non regular) three times between any two weekly rest periods. Note: no compensation is required.

A regular daily rest period can also be taken in two separate periods, the first period being at least 3 hours and the second at least 9 hours.

After no more than 6 successive periods of 24 hours following the last weekly rest period, the driver must take a weekly rest that amounts to 45 hours (regular), but can be reduced to no less than 24 hours (non regular) at base or away from base.

A full regular 45 hours rest is required in any two consecutive weeks.

Any reduction in weekly rest must be compensated by the end of the third week following the week in question.

Currently drivers only have to keep tachograph records for days on which they are driving, however from 11th April drivers needs to keep a record of both driving and non driving days within a fixed week, where in scope driving has occurred. The record should include all periods of availability and other work including work carried out for any other employer.

There is a total of 29 categories of vehicle and operations which will come into scope for the first time, these include:

Vehicles or vehicle combinations over 7.5 tonne maximum permissible mass used for non commercial carriage of goods

Specialised breakdown vehicles operating outside a 100km of their base.

Vehicles used in connection with refuse collection and disposal which are not engaged in door-to-door household refuse operations

Vehicles with between 10 and 17 seats used in the UK for the commercial carriage of passengers.

For those working with in scope vehicles, the new Drivers' Hours Law cannot be avoided, so make sure that you know what it means and how it will affect you before it becomes mandatory on April 11th.

---

Breaks from Driving

Drivers must still take a 45-minute break at, or before the end of, 4.5 hours continuous or cumulative driving, however this may only be split in two, the first being no less than 15 minutes, and the second no less than 30 minutes.

---

Driving Limits

Daily driving should not exceed 9 hours, but may be extended to at most 10 hours no more than twice a week.

Weekly driving must not exceed 56 hours, and the total accumulated driving time over two consecutive weeks must not exceed 90 hours.

---

Rest

The new rules mean a daily rest of 11 hours in the 24 hour period, which begins at the end of the last daily / weekly rest period, although this may be reduced to a minimum of 9 hours no more than three times between any two weekly rest periods - these reductions no longer require compensation.

The daily rest can be split into two periods; the first must be at least 3 hours long and the second at least 9 hours long.

A full and regular 45 hour rest is required in any two consecutive weeks; however 45 hours can be reduced to 24 hours at base or away from base. Any reductions must be compensated for by the end of the third week following the week in question.

---

Multi-Manning

If a vehicle is multi-manned, each driver must have a period of at least 9 hours rest within 30 hours of the end of a daily / weekly rest period.

---

Train / Ferry Concessions

The regular daily rest period of 11 hours may be interrupted no more than twice by other activities, and these should not exceed one hour in total. During the rest period, drivers must have access to a bunk or couchette.

---

'Other' Work

If an in-scope vehicle is driven in any fixed week then the driver must also record all 'other' work, even for other employers, and regardless of whether the 'other' work involves driving. Periods of availability and break / rest periods must also be recorded. This can be done on the back of an analogue tachograph chart, via the digital tachograph vehicle unit or print out, or in a suitable log book.

---

Drivers' Responsibilities

If drivers work for more than one Transport Company, they must provide each with enough information to allow them to ensure that they are complying with the law.

---

New Drivers Hours Law inclusions

If any of the following types of vehicles are driven, for the uses noted, then the driver will come into the scope of the new Drivers' Hours Law Regulation on April 11th and will have to keep records of all Journeys, and fit a tachograph before 31st December 2007. The driver will also automatically also fall into the scope of the Working Time Regulations.

Vehicles with 10 to 17 seats used in the UK for the commercial carriage of passengers

Vehicles over 7.5 tonnes which are used for the non-commercial carriage of goods

Vehicles used for the carriage of postal articles in the UK which are over 7.5 tonnes or which are used beyond a radius of 50km from their base, or where driving constitutes the driver's main activity or that are not used by universal service providers to deliver items as part of the universal service or used internationally

Vehicles used by, or under the control of the armed services, fire / public order services, and civil defence, if the vehicles are not owned by them or hired without a driver, or where carriage is not undertaken for the tasks assigned for those services

Specialised breakdown vehicles operating further than 100km from their base

Vehicles used for the carriage of live animals between farms and local markets or vice versa, or from markets to local slaughterhouses in the UK if that journey is beyond a radius of 50km

Agricultural and forestry tractors used for the assigned activities in the UK beyond a radius of 100km from the base of the owner, or the person who has hired the vehicle

Gas or electric-powered vehicles not over 7.5 tonnes which are used in the UK to carry goods beyond a radius of 50km from their base. Many vehicles and operations are only brought in-scope of the new regulations for international journeys, or where the journey is not related to the specific task assigned to the vehicle, including:

Vehicles used by the water, gas, electricity, sewerage, and flood protection services

Vehicles used in connection with road maintenance and control

Vehicles used for refuse collection and disposal other than for door-to-door household collections

Vehicles used in connection with telephone, telegraph, radio, and TV broadcasting or detection

Vehicles used for transporting circus and funfair equipment, which are not specialised for the purpose

Vehicles used for the collection of milk from farms, and the return to farms of milk containers or milk products for use as animal feed.

---

New Drivers Law exclusions

The following vehicles will no longer be covered by the Drivers' Hours Law:

Vehicles with a maximum authorised speed over 30kph but not over 40kph

Vehicles used for the non-commercial transportation of humanitarian aid

Vehicles up to 7.5 tonnes gvw used for the non-commercial carriage of goods

Historic commercial vehicles, the exact nature of which is still to be determined, but is likely to be vehicles registered before 1947

Vehicles used, or hired without a driver, which work in agricultural, horticultural, forestry, or fishing within a radius of 100km of their base in the UK

Mobile project vehicles with an educational purpose such as a playbus

Vehicles used in the UK for driving exams providing they are not being used for the commercial carriage of goods or passengers

Vehicles used in the UK for driving instruction or examination for obtaining a Certificate of Professional Competence providing they are not being used for the commercial carriage of goods or passengers

Vehicles used exclusively in hub facilities such as ports, railway terminals and airports.

---

Definition of Transport Undertaking

The new Drivers' Hours Law references a 'transport undertaking' as having legal responsibilities and liabilities for drivers' compliance with the rules, and the definition of transport undertaking clearly states that it is the undertaking and not the employer who is responsible for ensuring that the main obligations are met.

A transport undertaking is defined as: 'any natural person, any legal person, any association or group of persons without legal personality, whether profit making or not, or any official body, whether having its own legal personality or being dependent on an authority having such personality, which engages in carriage by road, whether for hire or reward or for own account.' Consignors, freight forwarders, agencies, and tour operators also have an obligation to ensure drivers are able to comply with the law.

---

Liability of the Transport Undertaking

Drivers must not be subject to payments that are related to distances travelled and / or the amount of goods carried if this is likely to endanger road safety. Drivers' work must be organised in such a way that they are able to comply with the regulations. Drivers must be properly instructed and the transport undertaking shall make regular checks to ensure that the regulations are complied with. The transport undertaking shall be liable, unless proven otherwise, for infringements committed by drivers, even if the infringement was committed in another member state or third country. Undertakings, consignors, freight forwarders, tour operators, principal contractors, subcontractors and driver employment agencies shall ensure that contractually agreed time schedules respect these regulations.

---

Digital Tachograph Data Downloads

A transport undertaking that uses digital vehicles must ensure that the data is downloaded from the digital vehicle unit and the driver card regularly. The current recommendation is that, in the UK, digital tachograph data is downloaded every 21 days for the driver card and every 3 months for the vehicle unit. This element of the Regulation is currently undergoing consultation and it is likely that the mandatory outcome will be that the maximum time between downloads for driver cards will be 28 calendar days and 56 calendar days for the vehicle unit, with an obligation on the operator to ensure that no data is lost or over-written

All downloaded data from the driver card and the vehicle unit must be kept for a period of 12 months following the recording, and must be available either directly or remotely from the premises of the undertaking. Record sheets, tachograph charts, and printouts must be kept in chronological order and in a legible form for at least one year after their use and copies given to the drivers concerned who request them; this includes downloaded data and printouts.

---

Useful Internet websites

http://www.rha.uk.net/home

http://www.fta.co.uk/

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/DriverLicensing/index.htm

http://www.redrosetraining.co.uk/

http://www.vosa.gov.uk/vosacorp/onlineservices/onlineservices.htm

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

[Home] [About Us] [Services] [Drivers] [Industrial Staff] [Terms & Conditions] 
[24 Hour Emergency Cover] [Current Vacancies] [ PAC Benefits]

Contact Us Registered Office Manchester

VAT Registration Number: 972119515  

64 Winchester Road, Radcliffe, Manchester, M26 3LY  

PAC 4 Drivers Ltd can accept the following Invoice payment methods

MasterCard, Visa card, Maestro, PayPal, American Express

Head Office:

Telephone: 0161 725 8390

Manchester  – Leeds  – Birmingham  

 Web Design and E-commerce Solutions contact Aztex