Subbie holds goods after HOL collapse
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A SUBCONTRACTOR says he is owed more than £140,000 following the collapse of parcels firm Hellmann Overnight Logistics last December ( CM 15 January).
Bob Dowle, from Herne Bay, Kent-based JR Light Haulage, says his drivers and office staff haven't been paid since Christmas, and he stands to lose his home. He is also furious that Hellmann has issued a letter to all its depots with his contact details stating that he has stolen their customers' goods. Dowle says the goods are being held by a third party until he receives payment for his work.
"I've had threats from loads of people who have sent parcels but want them back." he adds. "They are actually in the warehouse of another depot working for Hellmann.
"Under the Road Haulage Association conditions of carriage we can hold these parcels until someone is willing to pay us to return or deliver them.
"I am fighting my case and continue to trade. Any independent company wanting its parcels back can make contact with JR Light Haulage directly, and we will be happy to return the goods,he says.
Vanessa Croisier-Challess of Canterbury-based solicitors Furley Page. who is acting for Dowle, adds that publicising someone as a thief is serious defamation of character, and that Dowle has been forced to hold the parcels at another creditor's base because he can't afford to deliver them.
Hellmann Overnight Logistics' parent company Hellmann Worldwide Logistics UK declined to comment.