"So not just were we carriers but we became bankers as well."
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6 he day I passed my HGV test is still a T
proud memory. A feeling of elation when the examiner informed me I had been successful and the realisation that, at last, here was a chance of job security at a time when the the birth d our third child was imminent. However, as many of you will know from experience, the job security hopes were short lived.
After driving for several haulage companies and always being in the position of last in, first out, and finding myself yet again unemployed, I took a chance and set up my own light haulage and parcel delivery service.
Starting from scratch wasn't easy and finding goods to be delivered was a constant search, but learning the business was an education in itself. We worked seven days a week, offering a 24-hour service and eventually built up a going
concern with a reasonable turnover.
The problem that arose was the same as many smaller businesses experience: nonpayment for the work carried out. As you know, everyone wants their goods delivered as soon as possible but once delivered they are reluctant to pay "as soon as possible". So not just were we carriers but we became bankers as well. Most of the companies having "overdrafts" with us were larger operations. Unfortunately, our own overheads had to be met on time. When several of the companies "overdrawn" with us went to the wall, taking some of our fellow carriers with them, we saw it as time to put the brakes on.
We looked around for the best option and chose to run the Three Kings Inn, here in Cullen on the Moray coast.The hotel and pub game is a seven day a week commitment, like haulage, but has the advantage that payment is over the counter. The pub game is not an easy option but then working for yourself never is. A few of my friends from the transport world pop in to see us in the pub. I like nothing better than, when alter chatting about who's doing what, they invite mean a jaunt while they make their deliveries they sometimes even trust me to take the wheel!
I loved driving and my time on the road. I would like to think that someday, perhaps, I may return to it. In the meantime the Three Kings Inn and our brilliant clientele are very much my life. I wish all the very best to friends and associates who are still on the road—drive safely.
• If you want to sound off about a road transport issue write to features editor Patric Cunnane.