Managing Director Chris Bryant Named an HGV Hero by RHA

Drive Personnel is proud to share that our managing director, Chris Bryant, has been recognised as an #HGVHero by the leading organisation in the transport industry, the Road Haulage Association. The HGV Hero initiative aims to recognise those who have been going the extra mile to make a difference during lockdown, showcasing the country’s heroes who have been keeping Britain moving throughout the coronavirus crisis.

Lockdown caused a huge increase in supply chain demand throughout the UK in March, with supermarkets and essential businesses becoming reliant on HGV drivers to deliver food and medicine to meet customer demand. This challenging time has highlighted the importance of not just HGV drivers, but transport planners, warehouse workers and admin teams who have been busy behind the scenes ensuring that shelves across the country remain stocked.

RHA chief executive Richard Burnett said: “The UK’s road freight industry isn’t just about trucks, it’s about people. It’s about those who’ve quite literally gone the extra mile to keep the nation fed and protected during an incredibly difficult and challenging time.

HGV Heroes will ensure that they are not just remembered as getting us all through some very dark times – we should be celebrating them every single day.”

In addition to providing temporary staff to companies such as Tesco who have suffered from staff shortages due to self-isolation or furlough, Drive Personnel has gone the extra mile to support local organisations during this difficult time. Managing director Chris Bryant has spent his very limited spare time during the pandemic sourcing personal protective equipment for Caremark in Eastleigh and donating to Mountbatten Hampshire Hospice in Southampton. After seeing a plea for donations on social media regarding PPE shortages at Caremark, Chris took it upon himself to purchase and deliver a significant consignment of masks, gloves and aprons to the home health care service which operates locally throughout Eastleigh, Southampton, and Winchester.

Chris also generously donated to Mountbatten Hospice, an organisation which is very close to his heart, which suffered following the cancellation of a number of fundraising events responsible for financing PPE and further safety measures for staff. Despite his senior position in the company, Chris has continued to personally deliver great service and is thrilled to be recognised by the Road Haulage Association for his efforts.

“The coronavirus pandemic has showcased the importance of transport workers all over the country who often go unappreciated.” Chris commented.

“The #HGVHero initiative is a wonderful way to showcase the staff who have been keeping essential businesses running over the last few months, and I’m very happy to be nominated.”

About Drive Personnel

Drive Personnel is a specialist HGV driving agency based in Southampton. Our experienced team provides qualified drivers to fill temporary or permanent positions for businesses across Southampton, Eastleigh, Portsmouth, Gosport and Fareham. If your business needs cover for drivers who are currently absent, or require additional support due to peak demand, give our friendly local team a call on 02380 695 600 or email us at info@drivepersonnel.co.uk.