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Network gets heavy about escorts
Page 7
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THE HEAVY TRANSPORT Association (HTA) has formed a nationwide network of certified abnormal load escorts to ensure the safe movement of Special 'Types traffic.
The launch of the Abnormal Load Escort Network (ALEN) comes ahead of police plans to privatise escorts from 1 January to save police time and money (CM 13 November).
The new association will provide members with training and advice on the standard of vehicles and equipment to be used to ensure a high quality operation.
ALEN director Tony Lovell says: -There are a lot of health and safety issues involved with escorting abnormal loads— we aim to add credibility to the sector.
"ALEN will provide members with a directory of approved abnormal load escorts which conform to its industry standards; for instance having the correct vehicle with proper stripes and lights, up-to-date training and a liability policy.
"What we don't want is a load of students in a white van claiming to be abnormal load escorts or, as when the buses were privatised. loads of companies springing up all chasing the same customer."
Heavy haulier Rob Cooper (left), owner of RLC Transport in Cheltenham, says it is disgusting that the police have withdrawn their support: "We get so much abuse from the public for blocking a road but if they see a policeman there they quieten down. With no policeman the public ranting and raving will continue."
• Contact: ALEN on 0845 330 5501; e-mail. escort@alen.co.uk.