Awards success for women
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by Juliet Parish • They turned up at a Derbyshire hotel in their tractive units from all over the country: owner-drivers and employees; old hands and beginners—but at this awards evening all the participants were women.
What had begun last August, as a "little idea" of Lady Truckers Club founder Ilona Richards had culminated in the first Women of Achievement Awards for the transport industry (CM 21-27 Oct 1993). The event recog nised the achievements of seven female truckers and transport managers in categories including best work for charity, youngest LGV pass, and most valued employee.
The event was organised on a shoestring, but you'd not have guessed. TNT, MAN, the Freight Transport Association and the United Road Transport Union had all been roped in as sponsors; a local radio announcer was MC for the evening and MP Edwina Currie came along as guest of honour. She likened the success of female truckers to that of women MPs; both involve a battle for recognition in a male-dominated environment, she said.
More than 50 of an estimated 2,200 women drivers and transport managers were there, with 80 partners and guests. Winners were chosen by a panel of judges from the Chartered Institute of Transport, NFC and Parcelforce.
Denise Romeo, the best newcomer lady trucker, was delighted: "I have never won anything until now; the cheque for £100 is not as important to me as the trophy." Romeo swapped a career in accounts for driving 20 months ago at the age of 34. She hopes the award will help her win business so she can set up as an owner-driver.
Laura Weatherley, 22, the Youngest Female to Pass the Class 1 Test, was also "really chuffed". She has bought an E-reg Volvo F10 and trailer and hopes to become an owner-driver.
Richards, who founded the 170-strong LTC eight years ago, was close to tears after receiving a surprise award for lifetime service to women truckers.