Cash problems arose from BSE
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• A Staffordshire inimal waste carrier who blamed the BSE crisis for his maintenance problems escaped with a serious warning when he appeared at a Birmingham disciplinary inquiry.
West Midland Deputy Traffic Commissioner Alan Cattell was considering taking action against the licences of Rugeley-based Patrick Strain, trading as Rick Strain & Sons, and the associated Farm Haulage & Reclamation, trading as Rick Strain Butchers Waste, which authorise 18 vehicles and four trailers.
For both firms, Christopher Lee said the two businesses had been incorporated and the prohibitions imposed were not challenged. The situation was the result of the BSE crisis, maintained Lee. A lot of money had to be spent on new buildings and facilities to meet the EC requirements and in striving to meet them Strain had 'taken his eye off the ball", said Lee.
Strain said that the original garage, which had contained an inspection pit, had to be converted to a new animal loading bay.
The Vehicle Inspectorate had criticised the fact that the building now used for maintenance, had no underneath inspection facilities and could not accommodate artics. A ramp had since been constructed and the maintenance of the two artics had been contracted out, said Strain. The inspection period had been reduced to four weeks, a new driver defect reporting system had been introduced and two extra fitters had been taken on.
Cana said that he was pleased to see Strain had taken a responsible attitude. However, promisff, were easy to make and Strain had to ensure they were kept.
He warned that he would ask the VI to make a fresh report within six months.