ACR-News

A LOGISTICS manager for Valera Refrigeration is leading the charge of more than 60 truckers going-slow up and down the M6 to protest against rising diesel costs.
The go-slow between Lyme in Cheshire and Carnforth, Lancashire will see haulage and delivery firms driving 120 miles at 40-50mph on June 14.

The fuel protest is organised by Tony Burridge, who posted his protest plea on www.transaction-2007.com on May 30 and by June 3 had got 500 hits from eager participants.

Diesel prices have risen by 30% since the start of the year.

Preston-based firm Valera Refrigeration owns a fleet of seven trucks which distributes across UK and Ireland commercial refrigeration goods imported from several European manufacturers.

'This company will survive but I can't say the same for other firms, said Burridge.
'The road haulage industry has a problem. Some firms believe they can't last the end of year'.
There have been grumblings in the industry for the past 12 months and customers don't want to pay extra.

'We want a reduction of VAT to keep our heads above water. We're asking for 20% off VAT'.

Burridge admits he's 'just a Joe Bloggs on the street' stirring the troops with no lead part taken by any road haulage trade bodies.

Burridge's posting has sparked at least three more protests planned for the same day in Bristol, Scotland and Yorkshire.

'Its bound to cause an impact. Just how big and how bad it is we don't know. We don't want to upset anyone.
'In the end the government will have no choice. 'Goods still have to be transported around the country'.