When Matthews European went Into receivership last month Kenneth Matthews,
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who ran the company with his wife Julie, told CM he had ceased trading but he "might start up again in the future".
But following bp-offs, CM visited the Matthews yard near Hull and found a hive of activity. Some of the vehicles were working for firms unconnected with Matthews, but others were pulling trailers for previous Matthews European customers (pictured, below left). The customer In question, Crystal Heart Salads, has confirmed it is now using Matthews Logistics.
It later emerged that these vehicles used to be on Matthews' Operator's licence but were transferred to Phillip Bayram's 0-licente after the company went into receivership. Phillip Bayram is a relation of Matthews who used to drive for his company.
Matthews has now admit ted he is behind Matthews Logistics. He adds that he has lost money in the receivership and advises the creditors to "take it on the chin".
• Matthews European was activated as a limited company last year. At about that time it bought BB Read International, a reputable and profitable company.
By April this year, Matthews had decided to pull out of international work to concentrate on the UK. The following month Matthews European went into receivership.