THE LES HUGHES FLEET
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The nine-strong Les Hughes fleet mostly consists of six-axle drawbar combinations, although there are also two artics. As well as the pair of Renault Premium Landers in the trials, there is another in 6x4 tractor guise. Two MAN's were bought around the same time as the Renaults, while the rest of the fleet are Cat-powered Fodens, including what is reckoned to be the second or third from last Alpha to be built, and close to retirement.
Tony Hughes' plans for the newer trucks is to replace them when the three-year warranty expires, transferring the existing bodies and cranes to the new chassis, Alucar bodies and Epsilon Pelf inger Z-folding cranes are fitted, with mostly M+G trailers, although there is a small Dennison presence. Reps hoping to changing the firm's crane allegiance must be dismayed to find Palfinger agent Forestry Transport Maintenance ensconced as a tenant in the Hughes yard.
Hughes is a firm believer that all modern trucks are fairly equal, with the difference being the local dealer support. As such, he's becoming a firm a firm convert to Renault, and is very pleased with the Optidriver+ automated transmission, which is specified with the Off Road software package. He also praises the Optifuel driver training, which Chris Bearmond had recently done. The training, giver in the driver's everyday environment, was considered a success.
Not shy of innovation, for future purchases, combining Renault's Optitrack hydraulic front wheel drive on a 6x2 with lifting tag axle is under serious consideraton. Even more radical but still under wraps is a plan for a completely new approach to forwarding within larger woods.