THE 'Well Driven? Good Van Code' has received a major endorsement following a contract with the combined fleet of Northumbrian Water and Northern Electric for the scheme to be rolled out to more than 1,000 vans. Run by the FTA and backed by Ford, the code commits operators and drivers to high safety and environmental standards. Code co-ordinator John Hix said: 'It is great news to have such a major utility taking up the scheme.'

A driver training video, endorsed by the Driving Standards Agency and tailored to the commercial driver, is sent out as part of the pack that fleets receive on joining the scheme. Hix said fleets can expect cost savings through the code with better driving practices bringing reduced accident rates, lower fuel bills, savings in downtime and reduced insurance premiums.