Driver with 'abominable' record granted provisional licence
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A MIDDLESBROUGH lorry driver, Mr R. Collins, 16 Deepdale Avenue, Grangetown, was granted a provisional heavy goods vehicle driving licence by the deputy Northern Licensing Authority, Mr E. D. Grierson, despite what the deputy LA described as an "abominable" record showing Collins had played ducks and drakes with the law.
Mr Collins had been called to a public inquiry at Stockton-on-Tees on February 13, and admitted the following convictions — March 1970, for failing to produce driving licence and insurance; January 1971, excessive alcohol, fined £25 and disqualified from driving for 12 months, also for defective tyres, no excise licence or test certificate and no lights when driving a private car; September 1973, when in charge of "an old van" for no insurance or test certificate, no excise licence, dangerous parts and accessories and defective tyres, with six months' disqualification.
A solicitor, Mr R. Hall, said Collins had no convictions when driving heavy goods vehicles although he had worked regularly as a lorry driver between 1963 and 1970. His problem had been with the police because of driving "old bangers". He was now unemployed but had the chance of a job as a driver.
Mr T. C. McNeil, a director of G. and G. Auto Transporters Ltd, Grangetown, said he had known the applicant, who had worked for him in the past but not as a lorry driver, for 20 years.
Mr McNeil said he would give him a job if he was granted a licence. This would pay £70 a week basic and he would be able to earn up to £100.
If Collins were given a provisional licence Mr McNeil would provide a vehicle for the test. He assessed Collins as a good worker and driver, and believed he would settle down.
The deputy LA said Collins had been described as a very good driver and he had kept out of trouble since 1973. With a good deal of hesitation in view of his record a licence would be granted. Any further convictions would inevitably lead to its loss.