Ref. 25590-9A local recruitment agency is going 'ape' in its attempts to recruit lorry drivers and in particular, Class 1 lorry drivers.

Martyn Ellis, operations manager for Recruitment Employment Services, a specialist driving agency based in Commercial Road, said: "Swindon has a major shortage of Class 1 (articulated) lorry drivers, and on any particular day there can be up to 30 unfilled vacancies.

"Some agencies operating out of the town are even renting houses and accommodating staff from Wales and the North of England in order to fulfil the requirements of their clients."

A Class 1 driver in Swindon can expect to earn in excess of £10 an hour, yet Mr Ellis claims they have work available for drivers every day of the week. He said: "These are jobs which can offer flexibility and shifts cover all hours, including weekends, but where are they?

"My driving consultant Karen Teal is even prepared to dress up as a gorilla and stand near a road in order to attract drivers."

Mr Ellis added that the dearth of properly trained drivers was posing a threat to Swindon's economic future.

He said: "It spells serious consequences for the economic climate of the town because if local companies can't get their products distributed, they may look to move elsewhere."

If you are, or know of a Class 1 driver, call Martyn Ellis on (01793) 432044.