A LOSTOCK haulage company has teamed up with a training provider to help produce more HGV drivers for the transport industry.

Jack Richards & Son Ltd is helping Class 2 drivers gain their Class 1 HGV licence, helping to combat the shortage of UK truck drivers.

Working with training provider Horsepower Training Ltd, it is offering assisted-funding to candidates who are not eligible for apprenticeships or can’t afford training costs.

The hands-on training takes place at weekends when vehicles are available and many drivers are off.

Horsepower Training owner Nathalie Axon said: “Our aim is to welcome both men and women who have set their sights on a new and rewarding career in haulage. With the help of this training, we could help those people achieve their dream job and at the same time help the industry solve one of its biggest problems – not enough drivers.”

As part of the scheme, Jack Richards guarantee the candidates an immediate start as a Class 1 driver on their driver mentor scheme after passing.

Regional director Lisa Richards, said: “The driver shortage is a real issue for our industry so we wanted to take positive action toward this. We’re delighted at how the training is going so far and we’ve just had our first pass. It’s fantastic to see new talent coming into the company and we hope it’ll continue.”