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Bikers safer in London. The Institute of Couriers is holding a briefing on November 7th for top brass to take on  board the excellent news that London road safety has improved. President of the IOC, Lord Falkland will comment on latest London figures that show a fall in bike accidents of more than ten per-cent. Road safety a paramount issue in the same day industry, the news will be well recieved by courier companies in the Capital and across the UK.

Bike casualties in London down. Craig Carey-Clinch of the MCIA anounced bike casualties in London are down for the period 2001-2004 by 13% in London's congestion charging zone. MCIA is calling for access to bus lanes as figures for safety improve. Carl Lomas of the IOC sees the improved biker safety of London as a direct reflection of the ten thousand bike couriers doing a better job in a safer manner. Ten years of training for bike couriers, level 2 NVQ qualifications in courier skills and ever better technology for communications and roiute finding have all helped. London safety record for two wheels is a credit to the bikers of London.

Signpost Magazine for Courier Industry. The Institute of Couriers IOC is in the last stages of the launch of a new courier magazine, aimed at individuals working in the courier industry one of the key features is a profile on the founding fellows who launched the IOC, for the two wheel buffs theres some history on the CX500 and for the four wheel and overnighters a feature on logistics progress as well as a detailed report on the 2006 National Courier Awards.

Carl Lomas gives Courier Training to  public domain. Carl Lomas speaking at the 2006 National Courier Awards anounced - 'The work I have so closely been involved in delivering training in courier skills has sadly come to an end.Changes in work based learning refocuses delivery of learning for the unemployed. This is not a message of sadness, over the last decade you have employ more than seventy percent of the candidates trained in courier skills. Whilst Camelot Courier Training stalls and takes a different direction the success will continue.I am about to place all the learning materials, the NVQ tutorials, lesson plans and delivery work into the public domain on the IOC web sites. Camelot may not deliver it but you will still have it. Individuals will all have the opportunity to access the training and the success will live on. It will live on in your hands and our industry will continue to grow in its professionalism. As time moves on everyone will access the NVQ learning material, it will no longer be just a step into the industry but a measure for those who aspire to it in the industry.Not just the unemployed but everyone.'

National Courier Awards 2006. The 2006 event was a tremendous event celebrating the very best of the same day courier industry in the prescence of the Transport Minister Dr Stephen Ladyman. On the evening of Tuesday June 20th. Teams from British Superbike and National superstock brought top level two wheelers into the City of London. The bike paddock was indoors in the giant Port-a-tun room of the old Whitbread Brewery in Chiswell Street, City of London. Minister for Transport, Dr Stephen Ldyman delivered an industry focused speach finding growth, proffesionalism and quality in a skilled workforce. Carl Lomas MBE introduced the awards and welcomed VIPs, Ian Hethrington - Skills for Logistics, Trevor Magnor BMF, Ian Mutch MAG, David Jamieson MCIA, John Lister DA, Walter Gill livery of Carman and Malcom Linsky Taxi Trade Liverymaster.A giant Screen shone out above the stage to introduce the top guns of the industry for a three hundred person gala bash that will be the talk of the same day world for many moons to come. Winners of the 2006 National Courier Awards made the walk to recieve their hallowed glass under spotlights and to music as the mood of celebration recognised the excellence of proffesionalism they display. Marc Cheauvex of MPC organised champaign for every shortlisted candidate and TNT finished the evening with support for the afterdinner speaker. Event sponsorship from Camelot Training, Ears Radio and Proffesional IT gave a fantastic event that even updated the football scores as England played Sweeden in the World Cup. The 2006 winners are Two Wheels - John Coleman MPC, Paolo Guida TNT Sameday. Four Wheels - Mike Daniels UK Today, Steven Graham DHL, David Watkins MPC, Tony Worley City Sprint. Office - Laura Knight Lewis Day, Bobby Miles-Kingston Pink Express, Steve Purkis Reuter Brooks. Contract Peter Harris UK Today, Rosemary Smith TNT Sameday and Corporate Safety Award went to FedEx.

BMF Show tickets up for grabs for Institute of Couriers. The Institute of couriers has organised a small number of VIP pass tickets for the BMF bike show in Peterborough on ther weekend May 20th 21st. IOC fellow or member then contact BMF Leon Mannings to claim your pass, limited numbers, first come first serve for what should be a bumper weekend of bike fun.

John Lester becomes DA Chairman. John Lester, head of Reuter Brookes Couriers and a founding fellow of the Institute of Couriers became the new chairman of the Despatch Association replacing Kevin Walsh of Clockwork Despatch who had completed a two year term. The DA represents the interest of courier companies lobbying government for road issues, the shared their AGM for the election with the National Courier Association at the Birmingham meeting.The National Courier Association is a strong inter-trading body linking courier companies across the UK to facilitate deliveries between members.

A busy month for your courier diary. Its a busy start for 2006, February 2nd saw Transport Minister, Dr Stephen Ladyman announce the pannell of judges for the 2006 National Courier Awards, that same day Institute of Couriers president Viscount Falkland officially gowned the founding fellows of the courier industry. A small number of the fellows met the Lord Mayor at the mansion House and days later Logistics South kicks of with an all things courier with their show at Sandown Park February 7th and 8th, not forgetting the London bike show only just closing at Alexander palace on February 5th. Get your packages delivered, there is lots to do!

Roger - One hundred deliveries - December 2005. Roger Tuson turned out his January edition of Riders Digest to celebrate one hundred issues. Between 1997 and 2005 Rogers biker focused mag has carried a healthy run of courier editorial and its self tracked a changing industry that has seen growth and improvement in the last eight years.With the 100th issue adds carry the message of company bikes available, new client markets, more jobs and work on the increase. Andrew Barnard of City Sprint reports five thousand feet of expansion in the City and Dave Gurman, new to be editor, highlights Mercury and Express as two of the oldest bike companies still in business today and followed up with a report on the courier museum at Camelot Training. Rogers last comment, 'After 100 issues of TRD I feel rightly proud of the magazine' the courier industry supports his pride.

Point to Point on the look out for Addison Lee. Point to Point boss Kevin Grey is on the look out for the Addison Lee biker who found the lost wallet of one of the Point to Point team, the anonymous Addison Lee person returned the wallet (full of a lot of cash) to its address. Christmas cheer abound Kevin seeks the person for a just return. Point to Point 0208 960 2222

Target for the big one is December 13th. The estimated 3.7 billion quid take-over of Excell by Deutsche Post DHL is set to be on December 13th creating the worlds largest logistics operator. The Deutsche post annual report is published March and should make interesting reading for the new year.

November 29th Institute of Couriers Briefing. Leon Manning, immediate past chair of the BMF  briefed IOC members on a year of statistics and politics in transport on November 29th in the lecture room of London based Camelot Training. Leon holding a recent doctorate with a thesis on transport policy delivered a very interesting view of congestion, road space and journey times in London that directly effected the same day delivery industry in mileage and time related costs. Journey times, congestion zones, bus use and diesel pollution thoughts lead to the reality of extended timescales for cross city travell. The afternoon rounded up with seasonal mince pies and a hearty session of networking that was well received by all those in attendance.

Bike Show - Top man changes places - free cd of the lot for IOC. The International Bike Show at the NEC Birmingham was another bumper bash, many new bike launches and Yamaha even displayed their water jet bikes ready for the ocean. Lots of real bike tests outdoors and even a chance to test a supermoto across pavements in a sliding extravaganza of speed. Meanwhile youngsters from the age of five could get their first taster at an indoor ring where mini bikes with two stop cords awaited them. Young couriers or what? The show opened with Steve Norris handing over his top slot job as president of the Motorcycle Industry Association to David Jamieson ex Labour Transport Mnister. Jamieson gave positive views on the industry, it is he who launched the safety award for the National courier Awards and he vows to be back at the 2006 courier bash in London in the summer. The Institute of Couriers organised a birds eye view of the show for their members by distributung a free photo shoot cd of the best of the action, bikes, babes and technology all brought to the computer screen in front of you.

National Road Safety Award recognising safer couriers. The Association of Industrial Road Safety Officers (AIRSO) is giving an award to Carl Lomas recognising the impact of training work with motorcycle couriers that has had an effect on road safety in Great Britain. AIRSO celebrates its fortyth aniversary, the award is to be made at the aniversary dinner in November.

IOC distributes free magazines to members. With the October newsletters the IOC distributed free copoies of the glossy Logistics Manager magazine to all the fellows of the institute. Next date for the Institute of Couriers Diary is November 29th when Leon Manning will talk about his year as head of the British Motorcycle Federation. He will deliver a full update on all political issues of two wheels, road pricing, parking and bus lanes. For full details of what should be a very informative and well attended meeting in Central London call the IOC on 0845 6010245

APC Freehold of hub premises. Vince Friary reports The APC parcel network has purchased the freehold of its middle England hub site and has options on more ground adjacent to the site making long term expansion very realistic.

National Courier Awards- The 2005 pannel of judges - In a House of Lords reception, Lord Falkland alongside Steve Norris and Tracey Worth announced the 2005 panel of Judges for the National Courier Awards. In alphabetic order they are, Jon Barber - Scarlet Couriers, Judy Benn - Arrow Express, Tricia Bing - Connections, Marc Cheauveux - MPC, Mick Davies - Ears, Carl Lomas MBE - Camelot Training, Trevor Magner - BMF, Ian Mutch - MAG, Alan Savage - London Lonk, Steve Smith - Professional IT. Individuals generally take a two year role in the hot seat. Their task to judge the bet of the best same day. New boys on the list for 2005 are Jon Barber of Scarlet Couriers in Slough and Alan Savage of London Link in Milton Keynes. Instigator and mentor Carl Lomas has done the full ten years. Trevor Magnor and Ian Mutch bring a strong independence to the panel representing the UK rider groups, BMF and MAG

TNT Marathon Special for one million drinks - The Flora London Marathon on Sunday April 17th was supported by the logistics of TNT. TNT opperations bos Dave Cox bagged a National Courier Award in 2004 for heading up the operation which was then a fifteen year partnership, For 2005 one million drinks were delivered in a ninety minute window between road closures and the race. Even more spectacular was the mobile cloakroom, competitors dropped of cloths and posesions in Grenwich with TNT and as they finished in the Mall their items were waiting for them, sorted and ready, with thirty thousand runners and Londons most road closed day of the year it was a feat any post room would have been proud of.

National Courier Association / Despatch Association Joint Agm - The April 9/10th event of the joint AGM for the National Courier Association and Despatch Association AGM took place in Cheltenham. National Courier Association Chairman remains Alan Savage, President Stefan Law who took over from Ian Dafter stepped down, Kevin Grey of Point to Point London takes the post. Kevin walsh of Clockwork Despatch remains DA Chairman. A little over a hundred couriers sat down for their anual dinner and enjoyed an excellent weekend.

Motorbike Chaufers in MCN red seat - April 6th copy of Motorcycle News put four motorbike chaufers in the red hot chair for some editorial on their thoughts of bike delivery for people.The Virgin Limo bike riddres, Peter Hazek 43 from Corringham, Rhys Boyd 44 from Mitcham, Damien Rowley 32 from Sunbury & Danny Hill 39 from Brighton reported on longest trips and most famous folk on the back who included Ewan McGregor, S Club 7, Girls Aloud, Ronan Keating & Brian Mcfaden.

Top transport award for courier industry - The livery company responsible for transport in London has awarded the 'Herbert Crow Award' to Camelot Courier Training boss Carl Lomas. It is only the fifth time in the history of the livery awards that the Herbert Crow cup has been given, it is given in 2004 for work in establishing courier standards and training, significantly furthering knowlodge and development in transport.The award was presented to Carl Lomas by the Lord Mayor at Mansion House in the City of London. City courier VIP guests - Andrew Barnard, City Sprint - Marc Cheauveux, MPC - John Lister, Reuter Brooks - Jeffry Ritterband, Lewis Day - Kevin Walsh, Clockwork - Martin Williams, Quicksilver.

Buisness Post makes  makes Footsie - Buisness Post is the first British owned courier company to step into the FTSE250 share index list. The 250 list holds companies following the FTSE 100. Paul Carvell, chief exec commented:- It came earlier than expected but has been on the cards for a while, Buisness Post has been on the threshold of entry for some months.

Couriers at British Library for top recognition . The minister for Education congratulated Camelot Training at the launch event for the Adult Learning Inspectors anual report by David Sherlock. Camelot was recognised in November of 2004 for top level traiing scores and bagged a place in to top thirty list for best provision of traiing. The list recognises very best practise in traiing in any sector and any location in the UK. Couriers traiing in the London courier school are getting the best possible start in their industry.

Following on from 2004 success - couriers go to show . Organisers of the Alexander Palace London Bike Show, EMAP MCN again supported London motorbike courier school Camelot Training to allow trainees to visit the bike show free. 2005 highlights included Charlie Boardmens aperance with his Long Way round BMW, the arena show with MX jumps and supermoto racing pluss many clothing bargains the show has become renowned for.

A to Z leave N1 for WC1 . One of the oldest courier companies in the buisness, AtoZ established by the Dally brothers and taken over by the Rentokill Initial group has been relocated into WC1 with a deal by Mach One Couriers.

Anderson Young to Addison Lee . The car section of the long established family run courier firm Anderson Young finds a new home in the hands of Adisson Lee. This brings the Addison Lee fleet to nine hundred vehicles. Anderson Young bike couriers take on a new name to become MY Despatch. MY is to be run by Michael Young in a new nine thousand square feet office in Bethnal Green. One of the old guard names in the courier industry Anderson Young had a twenty four year record. Based in Fulham their latest move had been the aquisition of Southbank Couriers forming AY East.One of their bike couriers Daren Andrew took a national courier award in 2001 and Claire Young joined the pannel of judges for the 2002 National Courier Awards.

ANC gets White . The Swindon Depot of ANC has gained a new general manager, Andy white joins from Geopost who he was opperations support manger for Interlink Express with. Andy had a further background with Parceline and Nightfreight.

Camelot Courier Training bag big scores. The Adult Learning Inspectorate completed a detailed inspection of London based Camelot Training in November 2004, three auditors spent the week on site documenting, traiing, interaction with courier companies, qualification success and management. Camelot bagged top scores in all areas with a report of very good traiing for all activities. This follows on from and three yearly check that was last done by the TSC and also scored top excellence scores. Camelot hold IIP and ISO acredtitations.

National courier Awards 2004 . A fabulous and succesfull event reconised the best of the best couriers in the UK. In its nineth year the event took place in the Painters Livery Hall in the City of London, it was sold out and packed full with over two hundred guests at a gala dinner. Courier Companies large and small, national and local, network, association and independant enjoyed the courier event of the year. Government minister David Jamieson presented the top awards, VIP guest speaker was Steve Norris, Carl Lomas opened the event for the courier industry and Tracey Worth, co-ordinator of the judges announced the winners. Winners of the 2004 National Courier Awards. Corporate Safety Award Commendation - Driver Hire Nationwide. Winner - Citysprint. 2 Wheels - Moynul Ahmed MPC, Jenny Long RLC. 4 Wheels - Mark Gernon Lewis day, Pat Oliver DHL, Danny Ernst Citysprint. Contract - Dave Cox (London marathon) TNT. Office - John Miskell GLH, Bill Butler Reuter Brooks, Charlotte Baverstock Point to Point

Bargain dinner for earlybird couriers. The 2004 date has been set for the National Courier Awards, Tuesday 22nd June and the event will be at a new venue in the City of London at one of the Livery halls in Little Trinity street EC4. With generous sponsorship from Camelot Courier Training, Ears Communications and Professional IT ticket prices for a full gala bash dinner with reception and wine will be held at 2003 prices. Early bookings for a full courier group of ten are available for four hundred pounds all in. Act today to get the earlybird price mail@ncawards.co.uk Nominations are being taken and the VIP panel of judges representing courier companies across the UK is about to announced.Every member of the courier industry is welcome, large and small companies, members and none members of trading bodies and associations, this is the one bash that represents them all.

Bike show bonanza for London bike couriers. Organisers of the Alexander Palace London Bike Show, EMAP MCN worked with the London motorbike courier school Camelot Training to allow courier trainees to visit the bike show free. A splendid opportunity for new to be London couriers to check out some great winter gear deals, see a wide variety of bikes and take in information from other user groups such as MAG and the BMF first hand. The Police had a mass of material on show including copies of the Despatch Association, No L Plate  'Courier Code' and MCN took court in the giant hall entrance to live bike shows where their 2004 babes handed out leaflets on everything motorcycle. Long time experienced couriers have been using the show for years to get clothing bargains for the cold early months of the year so its no surprise to see a very busy show for 2004 where bargains were best on last years fashion, helmets in 2003 race colours were available at over a hundred pounds of.

Minister of State Rt Hon Charles Clarke speaks for transport training. 'Skills for Logistics' the new Sector Skills Council (SSC) representing training and education in the courier industry was official launched in a gala evening video champagne presentation in Central London WC1 by Secretary of State for education, the Rt Hon Charles Clarke on 3rd February 2004. Routes for Modern Apprenticeships, NVQ training and recognition of professional career routes were announced to a packed room of top brass transport including Roger King RHA chairman, Kevin Walsh Despatch Association, pending chairman and Richard Turner boss of the Freight Transport Association.The same day courier industry is already well locked into training with one of the strongest ratios  uptakes of NVQ qualifications in the transport sector.

Push Bike Polo player successfully fakes it. 'Woody' - Malcolm Wood of Speed Couriers Manchester shot to fame as their top push bike man after takeing time out to join a four week TV game to fake life as a psh polo player. Woody who had never ridden a horse in his life passed a pannel of judges to recognise him as a top polo player and succesfully 'faked it'. In normal life he rides a push bike for Speed couriers in Manachester, call Speed boss Shaun Merrick for more details .. 0161 848 8699

 

Snow and Ice For top Courier Day (Friday 30th January 2004). Snow for the end of January found a big fall on Thursday 29th January that hit the lorries that move next day courier work across the network trunking systems for the whole of the UK. Not a great problem in its self but it slowed up the next day deliveries landing in the hands of the same day morning couriers. The reasons were well recognised by clients and London in particular had very quiet streets as much of the TV news displayed great problems of travel. A bigger problem was the backlog of deliveries then landed on one of the busiest days of the year. Friday 30th January was the last working day of the month, it was the tax document return day and by the nature of a Friday an end of week day to. The London same day courier companies had some of their busiest days of the year and were aided by those quiet streets allowing the day to finish with the courier companies wining against the weather.

Courier Top Brass at transport Livery London event. A small group of courier industry top brass joined forces to discuss all things two wheel at the London lunch of the Worshipful Livery Company of Carmen in London on Wednesday 28th January 2004. Invites included Martin Williams, Quicksilver, Kevin Grey, NCA Chairman and Point to Point Couriers London, Tracey Worth, National Courier Awards, Carl Lomas, Camelot Courier Training & ex Despatch Association Chairman, John Scott GLH. The ancient Livery representing transport to the City of London covers all matters of vehicles in the City.

Riders Digest ace Cafe Courier Champion. Richard Pledge from Pink Express bagged the first prize of a two hundred and fifty quid insurance special from Ramisis at the Ace Cafe courier evening organised by Riders Digest magazine. He beat opposition from courier companies across London on a Honda CB 500. Editor Roger Tuson, 'I was really pleased people made the effort after a long miserable day of freezing winter rain, the next date will be a summer one'

TOP NVQs for courier audit. Following a three year cycle the Adult Learning Inspectorate of OFSTED visited Camelot. The full report will come out early spring but initial findings are of excellent NVQ qualifications for couriers and strong industry links. Activities for the new year see Camelot candidates on a free trip to the MCN London bike show at Alexander Palace. 2004 job places are high and spread across a wide sector of courier companies.

Quicksilver enter twenty fifth year. 2004 marks the twenty fifth year for London city based Quicksilver despatch who rank as one of the oldest same day bike courier companies in London. Aniversary celebrations are expected in the month of March which represents the very day of starting a quarter of a century ago.

NEC Bike show. Couriers at the NEC bike show bagged up their winter bargins with a visit to the NEC. A top MCN prize for Motorcylest of the Year went to Ken German. Ken of the MET Police has worked for years on bike theft problems and often focused on courier issues and insurance problems.The message of courier jobs was carried at the show by Camelot Courier Training. This year saw more new superbikes than ever before with the launch of a new Fire Blade by Honda, a big green ZX10 by Kawasaki and a new R1 Yamaha.

New computers for Lewis Day. Professional IT implemented the very latest computer systems with real time web internet booking facilities into one of the major London courier firms, Lewis Day. The firm has over 125 computer users to control one of the largest motorcycle courier fleets in London.The system called Freedpm marks the latest state of the art real time tracking systems, it features tailored invoices for individual clients with specific reporting. Professional IT boss Steven Smith can be contacted on 08703 802999

Barry Sheene 1951 - 2003. Sad news reached England on March 10th 2003 of the death of twice world motorcycle champion Barry Sheen. Barry Sheene was a motorcycle household name, despite injuries that included metal plates in both knees he achieved two world titles and was still in the bike spotlight as he covered bike tv from Australia. Age 52 he died from cancer and will be sadly missed.

Citysprint aquisition Growth. Andrew Bernard, Chief Exec of London based City Sprint has bagged both Hornets and M&L Couriers to expand to over thirty million pounds of urgent courier deliveries.Hornets based in Hoxton square and M&L from East London were both quality mid sized companies that have pushed the City Sprint turnover up another ten percent.

Bikes will be free from London Cogestion Charges starting February 17th. Following a Financial Times report bikes free runs in the London congestion charging area are under review Motorcycle News published a full rebuff. The FT quoted Transport for London 'Pretty much all aspects of the scheme are under review' - Word is all that work MAG did to get free bikes in London stands and courier bikes will pass the big red C road logos without fear.

David Jamison, Minister for transport will return to the National Courier Awards for 2003. The Nash room of the Institute of Directors will again be host to the National Courier Awards for another sumptuous gala sit down dinner event on the evening of Tuesday 45th June 2003. Almost 200 guests will celebrated courier success at the event. Judge co-ordinator Tracey Worth is expected to launch names this month for the panel of judges for 2003.

January Snow hits couriers bad in central London, a full day of mid January snow brought bikes couriers in London to a halt but worse was to come. The much colder conditions of the evening of January 30th left a layer of ice under a soft scattering of the white stuff in the City streets that proved a hazard for all wheels. This stopped everyone so bookings were low anyway but the overnight boys trying to get morning deliveries out were worst hit. How long is it to summer?

Gough Wallace Couriers, founder Ken Avery sudden loss . Ken Avery died suddenly before Christmas and was sadly missed by one of the most proffesional courier companies in London. Ken began Gough Wallace in 1983, the company had a long reputation for having a rider waiting list. Gough Wallace couriers working with Jam Buster couriers finds todays company, Reuter Brookes based in London WC1, John Lister comments, 'Gough Wallace was Ken's family'

Couriers at the NEC Birmingham International Bike Show. By special invitation Camelot Courier Trainning represented the courier industry at this years International Bike show at the NEC. In a special training for motorcycles feature at the bike show Camelot introduced many newcomers to the motorcycle courier industry. Steve Norris was on hand to rally up youngsters at the bike show for Youth Day and many individuals took their first steps on the road to work as a proffessional couriers.

Busy summer for courier network events. Amongst April showers in July heads of the bike courier industry met for a courier industry networking event at Henley organised by Camelot Courier Training to discuss issues to drive forward professional standards in the two wheel business. More courier top brass met in July to enjoy the Lord Mayor of London's Civic vehicle marking ceremony in Guildhall Yard. An ancient tradition of early licensing of vehicles which takes place each year organised by the livery company of Carmen.

David Jamison, Minister at the National Courier Awards. The Nash room of the Institute of Directors was host to the 2002 National Courier Awards for sumptus a gala sit down dinner event on the evening of Tuesday 25th June 2002. Key note speeches were made by government minister David Jamison alongside Lord Falkland and Steve Norris. Almost 200 guests celebrated courier success at the event sponsored by Camelot Courier Training, Ears Radio and Professional IT. A truely magnificent event was praised by all and couriers from across the nation celebrated their success and an industry full of pride. A full list of winners and further details can be found.

Motorcycle Courier Industry MBE in Queens Golden Jubilee Birthday Honours List. Carl Lomas, boss of London based Camelot Courier Training has been listed in the Queens 2002 Birthday Honours list for an MBE. The Honour is for Services to Training in the Courier Industry. The award comes in a special year for Camelot who have been delivering courier training for ten years. Carl was fundamental in the creation of the courier skills NVQ, then working with various government bodies provided a training scheme free to the unemployed which has helped support the industry skills gap ever since.

Tracey Worth co-ordinator of the team of judges anounced her 2002 team mid March. The 2002 panel of judges is listed below. T. Dee Barratt Director of Ears communications, Simon Bliss (Natinal Courier Network Chairman), Bob Holmes Moves Group, Carl Lomas Managing Director of Camelot Training & Ex chairman of the National Motorcycle Council, Trevor A Magner BMF (British Motorcycle Federation), Ian Mutch MAG (Motorcycle Action Group), Martin Rutty Despatch Association, Steve Smith Ex DA chairman - Professional IT, Martin Williams - Quicksilver Couriers, Claire Young - Anderson Young Couriers

D A - AGM 11th May elects Kate Lester to chair. Kate Lester is the new chairman of the Despatch Association and the first lady to take the position. Kate replaces Bob Doughty and brings a different emphasis to the association. Her company has no motorcycle couriers and she is one of the first DA chairs to have an out of London courier company. Philip Stone remains Chief Executive.

NTF - AGM 15th May re-elects Carl Lomas to transport chair. During a two day briefing and AGM in Kenilworth the National Training Federation re-elected Carl Lomas to chairman of the Transport Group responsible for representation of training provision across the UK. Carl, boss of Camelot Courier Training in London brings a strong emphasis of NVQs in the courier industry to the NTF table. Newley elected Vice Chairman is Ian Peacock, MD of Hargreaves in Leeds.

BMF Bike show a great May success for 2002. Europe's biggest outdoor biking extravaganza got even bigger for 2002 with a record attendance of 88,528 at the British Motorcycle Federation Bash. Marking its Silver Jubilee year at Peterborough’s East of England But figures only tell part of the story. Threatening bad weather on Saturday and forecasts of rain to come on Sunday no doubt deterred plenty of bike couriers, but for those who came they had a fantastic time, especially on Sunday where show-goers relaxed in the warm day-long spring sunshine.

GLH company staff awards. GLH boss John Scott held his company awards at Highgate golf club and top man took the company shield, Tom Cooney. Stuart Selley was Despatch Department winner and an ex Camelot Training bike courier Rode Ljustina took top honours in the bike category.

National Courier Association AGM re-elects Kevin Grey. Kevin Grey of Point to to Point Couriers London continues as chairman of the National Courier Association alongside Alan Savage who also remains as Vice Chairman. Sean Merick of Speed Couriers Manchester was happy to receive top association company award at the AGM which for the first of many years was a low key affair following the extravagant bash of 2001 at the Tower of London.

Lord Strathcarron gets award for services to road transport . Avid motorcyclist and All Party Motorcycle spokesman in the House of Lords, Lord Strathcarron was awarded the Order of Merit by the Worshipful Company of Carmen at Guildhall during the livery company's banquet on March 12th. Lord Strathcarron was involved with the National Courier Awards at the Tower Bridge ceremony and the livery company represents all vehicles in the City of London including couriers.

Big New Year Buy Out follows receivership for London number one courier company . Martin Ellis, Ipe Jacob & Andrew Conquest were appointed as the joint adninistritive recievers of Despatch Management (UK) Ltd on the 11th January.

Andrew Bernard then announced the acquisition of CitySprint previously owned by Dispatch Management Services (UK) Limited - DMS with the support of a multi million pound deal from United Bank of Kuwait. DMS was the result of the American NASDAQ stocks which purchased West One, Delta and Security Despatch to form London's largest same day courier company. CitySprint(UK)Ltd the MBO company will trade as CitySprint and as West One Passenger Cars. With an annual turnover in excess of 30 million, Citysprint is reported to service over 13,000 customers, employ over 300 people within the UK operating a fleet of 1200 vehicles through 31 customer service centres. With Andrew as Chief Executive a team of seven will manage the new company based in the City of London at 58-62 Scrutton Street EC2

MAG get London Couriers in Heathrow London Airport Bus Lane. November brings great news for London bike couriers POB with work to Heathrow and the western London corridor of business. In the wake of sustained campaigning by MAG, the M4 bus lane will be opened to motorcycles under proposals announced by Transport Minister John Spellar November 23rd. Highways Agency Project Manager Paul Harwood said: "Allowing motorcyclists to use the lane would help to make their journeys safer by keeping them clear of lane changes by other vehicles. The Agency will be monitoring this change carefully and the results will help inform decisions on whether there is a wider case for motorcyclists to be allowed to use bus lanes." MAG Spokesman Ian Mutch:'This is great news and shows that persistent lobbying does work, London & Home Counties MAG and MAG's employed lobbyists are to be congratulated on this result. Let us hope that all bike couriers appreciate the efforts being made on their behalf.

Chain Gang Couriers on Mainstream TV. Wednesday 10th October found London motorcycle couriers on ITVs motoring programme 'Pulling Power'. A five minute clip on the half hour show found a pulling power presenter on a one hundred thousand mile Honda Bross in need of permanent service trying to scrape a four hundred pound a week living at South London based Chain Gang in what he described as a tough long hour job for heroes. The inevitable interviews of crash victim bikers followed with reports of insurance at three thousand pounds a year.

Moves buy Manchester based Frank Hill. The Moves Group has purchased Manchester based Frank Hill after a year of growth. Moves well known in Central London for its same day operations took over Harley Street Runners some years back to create a strong bike courier operation.

MachOne, Snapper David Bailey joins the row. London courier firm MachOne have been troubled all year by local residents who have grave concerns for safety and sound pollution following the companies move to new offices in Brownlow Mews London WC1. Boss Jeremy Thompson was ordered to move out by Camden Council over planning use of the building. During appeal famous photographer, David Bailey a local resident has joined the row over the use of the mews. Residents claim excessive traffic in the sleepy mews where it has become dangerous with bikes dashing up and down and revving engines in a small residential culdisac.

EMAP launch new bike title free. MCN Bike Mart arrived at the beginning of September, a new fortnightly glossy book like mag with bike adds and some situations vacant adverts from weekly sister title MCN. A new avenue for job advertising but alongside the existing title of Bike Trader of Auto Trader fame.

Lewis Day take over Challenger. Following the return of Hilton Lewis in May 2001 to the courier industry he has added Challenger to his list of acquisitions in his Provost Street courier offices. Many ex West One staff are onboard alongside Hilton who has returned from a two year leave of the industry following the sale of former West One to DMS.

Motorcycle Action Group is sad to have to report the death of its President Dennis Howard who has died, aged 80, following a road accident in London aboard his bicycle. Dennis Howard founded MAG in 1973 in response to the introduction of the Compulsory Helmet Law in June of that year. MAG have been key in recent years with active political loby work to help courier bikes become exempt from London cogestion charging and have worked to get bikes into city bus lanes.

Winners for the National Courier Awards Announced. - The same day courier industry had its most spectacular gala bash so far on a hot June evening. A very strong turnout became a whos who reunion of the courier industry. Lord Falkland gave a key note speach on the bike courier industry and Steve Norris conducted the handing out of hand made individual glass awrads. Much as many courier company chief executives and MDs rubed shoulders so to did key people on the fringes of the industry. BMF chairman, Sharon Nash met DA cheif esecutive Philip Stone alongside National Courier Association Chairman Kevin Gray.

The judges decision was based on four categories and the winners were, Overnight - Jim Beecham, Hays DX, Two Wheel - Darren Andrew, Anderson Young / Kevin Murphy, MOves Group, Four Wheel - Richard Olive, Hornets / Sam Rajah, Securicor, Office - Gary Hunt, Hornets / Sharon Peters, Quicksilver

Return of Hilton Lewis. - Hilton Lewis, the former managing director of West One Rapid Despatch returned to the courier industry with his new company Lewis Day Transport PLC. Hilton commented, 'I am delighted to be back in the courier and passenger car business with my former team, and extend a warm invitation to riders and drivers who previously worked with us, to join our new circuits.' The Lewis Day office opened late April in 42 Provost Street London N1 opposite Moorfields Eye Hospital.

Despatch Association AGM. - May was the date for the Despatch Associations 2001 AGM. London companies reflecting the 10,000 bike couriers of the capital were much in the minority.London based Jeremy Thompson of Mach One couriers, treasurer of the DA was one Londoner who did not make the annual bash. Held in Old Harlow Essex chairman, Bob Doughty's partner Sally introduced Steve Norris to address issues of quality in the industry. 'Couriers are a pivotal piece of cement holding the bricks and mortar of business together.' Leaving the evenings jazz band behind most then chose to set industry issues correct at the bar.

TNT Celebrates 21 Years of overnights. - May saw the 21st birthday celebrations of TNT who have completed 21 years of overnight deliveries. The 6th May 1980 saw the company launch a money back guarantee nation-wide overnight delivery service in the UK. The first job was a sample of cushion vinyl made by Armstrong DLW Commercial Floors of Abingdon.

Government make solid step in support of courier industry. - The Department for Education and Employment Dfee has contracted with Camelot Courier Training to deliver courier skills training to the South East Region for the next three years through to 2004. Last year Camelot gained one of the highest audit scores of any training in the UK from the governments Training Standards Council. Camelot was awarded a grade one excellence to put alongside its Investors in People Awards and National Training Award. Camelot will deliver exclusive training with bike fuel and insurance support to aid unemployed people from 18 to 65 get the best possible start in the courier industry. Candidates who graduate from Camelot will go on to work towards their NVQ qualification in courier skills and from past experience take some of the highest paid positions in the courier industry.

TNT deliver 37 million census forms - 2,700 census district managers have recieved 37 million census forms over the last six months. TNT have made the deliveries in a 2 million pound contract that made use of 800 40 foot trailers to cary three thousand tons of forms distributed with the use of the 35 TNT depots. TNT Services MD Tom Bell comments, "I am proud our people have successfully completed the biggest logistics operation ever undertaken in Peace Time Britain."

No to cheap mail! - Securicor Omega Express and Nightspeed have said no to postal regulator. The big boys are to make no sub pound deliveries yet. Consignia (formerly the post office) was the first postal operator to be licensed by the postal regulator PostComm as it lost its long time monoploy for delivering letters under the cost of one pound. Graham Corbett, PostComm chairman comments, 'Licensing Consignia is the first step in our task to set a framework for a healthy and competitive postal services sector across the UK which will bring choice and improved standards.'

Big Guns back awards - Lord Falkland, president of the Despatch Association has rallied some of the industries big guns to make nominations for the 2001 National Courier Awards. Mike Lakin of Hays and Pauline Stevenson-Fraser of Securicor are organising their own short listings from courier offices across the UK. March saw the launch of a dedicated web site for the awards which you can find at www.ncawards.co.uk

London AGM for National Courier Association - New chairman Kevin Grey has taken the helm of the National Courier Association. Kevin from London based Point to Point Couriers lobbied hard to get the Association AGM into the UK courier capital, London. Members were divided on the event cost which was hosted at the Tower Thistle Hotel by the River Thames in the City of London. With foot and mouth taking a tight grip of the country many of the courier company top brass attended or sent representatives. Self proclaimed John Major of the courier industry, Stefan Law from the Midlands looks set to give up his presidency of the Association to Kevin in the natural progression of chair becoming president in two year cycles. Last years chairman David Vicery of Dash Couriers has missed out on the presidents slot but remains on the committee as outgoing chairman. Alan Savage of Milton Keynes London Link has taken over as Vice Chairman. The National Courier Association is made up of many small courier companies across the UK who use the Association to inter trade and deliver UK wide packages between member companies. The AGM was followed by a dinner dance and charity raffle. Star prize of the charity raffle was a VIP boat trip on the Thames supported by Camelot Courier Training, winners included Seven Sixty Express Woking and KKM from Portsmouth.

Business as usual on the radio - Following the Wood Lane bomb explosion it is still business as usual at Ears Radio. Ears is based in Aerial Way of Wood Lane, the bomb caused disruption to the whole area and on going road closures caused problems but it is business as usual. Contact Ears on 020 8762 9966

Welsh National Bike show still on - The Welsh National motorcycle Show taking place on the 25th - 28th May at the Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells, Mid Wales is still set to go ahead despite fears over foot and mouth disease. The showground is outside the exclusion zones and no animals are grazing on the showground. Disinfectant is being used at the gates as a precaution and the motorcycle show is considered a safe event because it doesn't involve the movement of animals. For further information please call Gary on 01286 830331

Express Expo just the ticket for a record crowd - Express Expo 2001, took place at London Heathrows Renaissance Hotel attracting 43 exhibitors and well over 500 visitors from courier companies and freight forwarders. IFW magazine held a prize draw where Trident Sameday and Initial Citylink picked up prizes. Tracking systems, fleet management and barcode systems were hot on the exhibitors list.

New Web Page For Courier Industries Premier Event - Despatch Association President Lord Falkland teamed up with ex National Courier Association Chairman, Tracey Worth and Steve Smith from Proffessional IT to launch a new internet web site. The site was launched at the House of Commons and is for the National Courier Awards. The new site inclueds the opportunity to make online nominations. The 2001 courier awrads will be held on Tuesday 26th June at the transport Museum in Covent Garden London. Check the details at www.ncawards.co.uk

ACU ban off-road motorcycle sport to help prevent spread of Foot & Mouth - ACU has today applied a nationwide ban on all off-road motorcycle sport on the mainland of Great Britain with immediate effect (28.02.01). A large percentage of motorcycle sport takes place on farmland which isused for animal rearing, in particular sheep. Following the making of the decision Geoff Wilson, ACU Chief Executive, said, "In line with recommendations from the Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries and Food (MAFF) the ACU has until now left the responsibility for applying bans on the sport to individual event organisers in association with each of our twenty Local Centres.

Hornets, Prestige and Moves First On - Three past winners were the first to be elected to the panel of judges for the 2001 National Courier awards. Tony marson - Hornets, Kwangu Nyirend - Moves and David Brown - Prestige. The three ex winners bring a solid foundation to the 2001 panel. Judge co-ordinator Tracey Worth ex chairman of the National Courier Association is soon to announce the full panel of ten which will draw from the DA, NCA, MAG & BMF to create a top level industry team for the tough decisions of 2001. This years awards will be held at the Transport Museum, Covent Garden, Tuesday 26th June.

Biker Ban Ends - Innocent riders who have fallen foul of the one year ban may regain their licences to ride mopeds and light motorcycles. Provisional motorcycle licences will now be issued valid until age 70, subject to the rider holding a current training certificate. The validity of compulsory basic training CBT certificates will be reduced from 3 years to 2. MAG spokesman, Ian Mutch comments, 'This victory shows the government is listening to us.'

Freedom to lead courier market - Professional IT have their new 2001 product on the market. Freedom is windows based and offers internet booking, networking and web design specifically to courier companies. Steve Smith of Professional IT comments, 'We took a strong hold of the courier industry IT market last year. We are seeking to establish ourselves as the leading supplier of IT solutions to the courier industry.'

Traffic Jams Stationary - Figures out in February from the DETR say traffic levels were virtually unchanged between 1999 and 2000. Provisional estimates show that traffic increased 0.3% between the two years. Fuel protests that cleared the roads were taken into consideration to adjust the figures and get a fare representation of the year.

Big Ears in West London - Following 28 years of business, Communications London - Colin Davies has shut shop and joined forces with Mick Davies and his West London team Ears radio. Colin began Comms London from a shed in North West London more than quarter of a century ago. He has built up a great loyalty with many customers in the area and joins Ears PLC to provide his expertise across London. Contact EARS on 020 8762 9966

Enforcement Notice gives Jeremy Thompsons MachI Two Months - Jeremy Thompson, treasurer of the Despatch Association has found himself in deep water over planning permission. Camden Council have given him two months to quit MachIs courier operations at Brownlow Mews, London WC1. Following a move to new offices local residents and neighbours brought complaints for disturbance and considerable noise problems. Activities were logged by residents. Andrew Gillman stated he had seen motorcycles driving at dangerous speeds in the Mews. He detailed groups of motorcyclists illegally parked causing obstruction. MachI doubled its size with acquisition of Streetwise in 1994, then came the Courier Group in 1996, Fleet Street Flyers in 1999 and latest acquisition Deliverance.

New Head biker for IAM - The Institute of Advanced Motorists IAM have a new motorcycle advisor. Dave Shenton has taken on the job from Rod Collins. Dave is an ex bike cop from the West Midlands and runs advanced rider training, preparing bikers for their IAM tests.

Bikes Exempt from Congestion Charging - In November the message from Transport to London to the Motorcycle Action Group MAG lobbyist Phil Neal was, 'Motorcycles will be exempt from congestion charging.' The fantastic news came as stunning vindication of the unassailable logic of MAGs campaign to promote motorcyclists as part of the solution to London's congestion and pollution problems. MAG urged all bike couriers to support the organisation in its efforts to build on this victory and reinforce the identity of motorcycling as not only a valid but a preferred choice of transport.

Norris takes top spot for Motorcycles - The Motorcycle Industry Association (MCI) Appointed Steve Norris as their new president at the end of 2000. Steve former Conservative Transported Minister and ex director general of the Road Haulage Association began work in the new post by opening the International Bike Show at the NEC in Birmingham.Steve had already shown support for the courier industry, he had presented awards at the National Courier Awards in 1998.

HMS Belfast for National Courier Awards - The 2000 National Courier awards were held on HMS Belfast with a key note address from Despatch association President Lord Falkland. The decks of the mighty battleship were awash with the courier industry who celebrated their highest levels of achievement on a hot June evening.

National Courier Network Century - NCN chairman Simon Bliss opened the 100th depot of the National Courier Network in Chelmsford, early 2000. Marketing manager Sharon Morgan spoke of potential e-commerce driving home deliveries into the network and growth from strength to strength.

National Courier Association Scottish Sell Out - The National Courier Association had a sell out success for their AGM which was held in Scotland with Chairman Dave Vickery at the head. London based Point to Point Couriers became association company of the year and Jacqueline Hope of Eagle Couriers Edinburgh was one of the top people winners.

Parking Wars Solution MAG - MAG the Motorcycle Action Group wrote to local authorities offering to pay for motorcycle parking bays. This brought a fresh innovative approach far different from the Despatch Associations head to head court battles on parking tickets. MAG went on in 2000 to blitz the Corporation of London with protests in response to a harsh anti motorcycle stance in their Unitary Development plan for the City.

Courier Adverts leave Peterborough - EMAP Motorcycle News courier industry situations vacant advertising left its age old office in Kettering to take up space alongside other glossy titles of the EMAP empire in their posh Peterborough location.

TNT Marathon - TNT couriers provided 400 tonnes of drinks on the morning of the Flora London Marathon to drinks stations on the famous runners route. A further 50 tonnes of registrations packs were delivered by TNT.

Business Post E Commerce - To exploit online shopping Business Post rebranded its home delivery service to HomeServe.net. Peter Kane commented, 'The Business Post board remains committed to growing the core business of express mail and parcel delivery, but we will adapt to meet the e-commerce opportunities that arise.'

Number One - Its Official - June 1999 Camelot Training were awarded a grade one excellence score the occupational training of transport. The Governments, Training Standards Council TSC published its inspection report finding Camelot the number one courier school. Report extracts - 'Camelot provides excellent motorcycle courier training. It is committed to providing support to assist trainees achieve their full potential. The company has developed strong links with industry and gets high achievement rates in NVQ training qualifications for couriers.

Kevin Keegan Interlink Deal - Kevin Keegan was signed up for a two year deal with Interlink to promote and endorse the distribution services of Next day nation-wide company Interlink.

National Courier Awards Tower Bridge - 1999 saw three bike winners from 10,000 couriers. Richard Smith - Alexander Moore, Sally Sylvan - Business Direct, & Mark Wilson - Security Despatch celebrated in front of a packed house on the upper walkways of famous landmark, Tower Bridge in Central London.

Free Ordnance Survey Maps - In October OS maps became free on the internet. A new service called Get-a-Map was launched. Couriers could down load maps for free. Geoff Robinson of OS Maps commented 'Never before have we given away free mapping, but I hope millions of people will take advantage of the new service' Find the web site at www.ordsvy.gov.uk

New radio Company ears - Mid 99 saw the arrival of Ears radio. Long time industry radio heroes, Mick Davies and Danny O'Sulivan set up shop opposite the BBC in West London. Mick and Danny formed a new team with nearly fifty years experience of courier and minicab radio systems. Contact them on 0208 762 9966

Camelot Back Industry News Letter - 1996 launched Dispatch News. A free newsletter to courier companies across the UK was provided by Camelot training on a regular basis. Dispatch News was born. It was a new title for the whole courier industry, news based and not restricted to membership of organisations. Carl Lomas had re-launched the Despatch Associations newsletter Dispatches three years earlier and placed his efforts into the wider industry market to deliver news to many more courier companies through the new title.

Courier Elected chairman of National Motorcycle Council - 1995 found Carl Lomas then Vice Chairman of the Despatch association elected to the chairmans role of the National Courier association. This brought a great deal of respect for the courier industry into the eyes of the rest of the motorcycle world. In a speach at the House of Lords Lomas took a strong message the two wheelers of a growing proffesionalism in the motorcycle courier industry.

Alternative Parcel Company created - February 1994 saw the creation of the Alternative Parcel Company by the confederation of over 40 individual same day courier organisations. 40 shareholders elected a board of directors from amongst their number and APC was officially launched with an operating hub in the West Midlands.

Apollo Courier Takes first place in UK - 1994 saw ex Apollo Despatch courier Damon Hill take first place in the British Car GP. Damon had worked for Apollo couriers on a Z500 Kawasaki and later West One before racing a TZ350. He started cars at the French race school Winfield before his UK win in the FW16 Williams.

Pizza Delivery down a million pounds in delivery accident - In the early 90s Pizza deliveries often had money back offers for late delivery. Pressure was on to get food delivered at record speed. 1994 Pizza Giants Domino lost a multi million dollar court battle. The lawsuit came after a pedestrian was injured by a speeding pizza delivery driver in America. Domino contractually released its 5300 worldwide stores from their 30 minute delivery guarantee. At the time there were 76 UK stores with aprox 800 riders working on two wheels. Pizza Hut was the largest chain in the UKwith over 300 outlets.

Ring of steel around the City of London - 1993 found couriers brought to a halt in the City of London. A ring of steel was created following bombs by the IRA. Checkpoints ended fast deliveries in and out of the EC postcodes. As couriers struggled to find new routes in and out of the City area a shock statement was made by Sargent Freemantle of the Traffic Management Department of the City of London Police, ' Lets face it, Nobody likes couriers!' A to Z couriers organised maps of the ring of steel from the corporation of London and they were issued to courier companies through DispAtches under the editorship of Carl Lomas.

Council Wardens began Privatisation - In the early nineties trial schemes began where private parking wardens representing the local councils took charge of ticketing illegal parkers. Discounts were offered for early payment of tickets. Wandsworth was the first council to begin the scheme. Ian Dafter of Chain Gang in SW11 said at the time, ' Our vans actively work in the Wandsworth area, I have found the council excellent but I fear privatised parking wardens will look to profit when awarding penalties.'

Training Enterprise Council support first training in courier industry- 1992 saw the first support with government funding for official training of couriers. CILNTEC provided funding for Camelot Courier Training to offer free course places to the unemployed who wished to become motorcycle couriers.Camelot offered their successful candidates entirely free to the courier industry and the industry responded with guaranteed jobs for qualified Camelot graduates. Dave Chaikin of AtoZ couriers commented at the time, 'We have good results from Camelot, their graduates have a thorough understanding of the job from day one and drop out rates on the job are very low.