Bradford human resources firm Relay Recruitment has formed its own team of drivers to tackle problems in the haulage industry.

The Salem Street recruitment business, which was founded by Steven Street and Laurence Elliot in 1996, has set up a squad of salaried, experienced, uniformed LGV/HGV drivers following consultation with fleet managers and road hauliers.

Managing director Mr Street said: "We were being told that, as the contract/temporary driver has no stake in either his agency or the end client, he tends not to be much interested in adding value to either organisation's operation.

"This means that performance - as measured by timely delivery, safe driving and observation of tachograph regulations - is lowered, while there is little appreciation of an ambassadorial role either on the road or at delivery points.

"The same driver is rarely seen twice, so no relationship or knowledge of client companies accrues. Consequently, when there is a problem with their work, it's hard to ensure that it won't be repeated by the next agency guy."

The initiative aims to acknowledge the vital role truckers play in the country's road haulage system, which has suffered due to falling numbers of HGV and LGV drivers.

Relay's squad will be trained to build relationships with clients and to make sure they carry out their duties in a way which will positively impact on the client's reputation.

The full-time staff will also be on annual salaries, even though hauliers are exempt from Working Time Regulations.

Mr Street said: "Our drivers are retained on a contract of performance. Using them will present clients with economies via fewer late or non-deliveries, fewer accidents and third party complaints and a reduction in fines for non-compliance with regulations. In addition, vehicle maintenance will be raised and you can't put a price on reputation management.

" Anyone who engages our drivers will have the peace-of-mind of knowing that they will get consistency of supply and performance, and that a professional pride is taken in their work.