RAC chiefs have dismissed as 'shameful' the response to the second phase of its fleet manager training Scholarship Awards Scheme. The 1999-2000 RAC Scholarship Awards Scheme was launched two weeks ago at the Institute of Car Fleet Management's annual members' conference.

But, despite powerful backing for fleet training from top British businessmen - Ford of Britain chairman and managing director Ian McAllister, Kwik-Fit chairman and chief executive Sir Tom Farmer and Retail Motor Industry Federation president John Coward - just 17 fleet managers had requested Scheme registration forms by Monday. There are less than 100 people out of the ICFM's near 800-strong membership who are actively pursuing fleet manager training courses.

This week RAC fleet spokesman John Hutson said: 'It is the best possible opportunity for fleet managers to gain nationally recognised qualifications and increase their standing both in their chosen profession and their company and it is shameful that more have not risen to the challenge.' Forms to register interest in applying for one of up to eight places on the 1999-2000 RAC Scholarship Awards Scheme are available from Wendy Hancocks at the ICFM on 01844 261828.