HAULIERS are calling for action over a crisis in the number of eligible drivers which could hamper Christmas deliveries.


The Easy As HGV recruitment website has said that 30,000 vacancies are up for grabs nationally but there is a huge shortage in the number of people applying.


The website has said that the lack of time to train, insufficient funding and the inability to find appropriate training have contributed to the shortfall.


The company said becoming a driver was 'fairly straightforward' and that training was available across the country.


Haulage companies in East Lancashire said something should be done before it affects more businesses.


James Styles, from Monks Contractors in Mellor Brook, said: "This has been an issue in the industry for some time now and it needs to be addressed.


"It's not currently affecting our business but from talking to others it seems like the lack of drivers is really hitting hard.


"One of the problems is that the cost of training and taking the tests these days is so high.


"Just to take the four tests it costs a person around £600 and that's not even counting how much it costs to put in the 35 hours to train.


"It's putting a lot of people off going into the industry and something needs to be done.


"I can see that it might well affect us in the future if noting is done.


"The Road Haulage Association has urged everyone in the industry to write to our MPs to try and get a targeted campaign set up to get this problem seen to by the government.


"There is a huge shortage of drivers in East Lancashire and across the country."
Hyndburn and Haslingden MP Graham Jones yesterday pledged to take up the case of anybody who contacts him about the shortage.


The Labour MP, who is vying for re-election at next year's general election, said: "This matter has been drawn to my attention, and I will take it up on behalf of anyone who writes to me, and I will also take it up on behalf of the Road Haulage Association."


Easy As HGV, whose owner is friends with Carl Fogarty, the former superbike world champion currently in the Australian I'm A Celebrity Jungle, has had one of his HGVs covered in 'Vote Foggy' posters.


A spokesman for Easy As HGV said: "Experts observing the industry, have noted that unless the industry makes significant changes to encourage young drivers into the ranks, we could be heading for serious logistical issues."