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Haulier's future threatened after series of diesel thefts

12th June 2008, Page 12
12th June 2008
Page 12
Page 12, 12th June 2008 — Haulier's future threatened after series of diesel thefts
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By Peter Swingter A HAULAGE FIRM may be forced to close its doors with the loss of 40 jobs following a series of diesel thefts, which have come in the wake of recent fuel price increases.

RK Transport of WiLlenhall, which is near Wolverhampton, reveals it has lost around 1100,000 through diesel thefts from its lorries in recent weeks.

Sales director Dave Barlow warns that if the crisis continues, 40 jobs could be put on the line because the business could be forced to close.

In the most recent incident. 200 litres of fuel were stolen from the company premises.

Barlow says: "It started with the increases in fuel price, It's now spiralling out of control.

"If this carries on, we simply won't have any alternative but to close the firm down. I estimate that we've lost at least £100.000 through stolen diesel."

The company has increased security, including installing a £3,000 barbed wire fence, to try to protect its premises. Barlow says employees also patrol the site, "but we're facing a losing battle".

• Aliens Transport of Stourbridge, Worcestershire, has also had to endure an increase in fuel theft following recent price rises. Owner John Allen reveals that thousands of litres of diesel have been stolen in recent weeks — 800 litres in one incident alone.

The operator has since spent £20,000 improving security-.