HAMPSON Self Drive managing director Steve Hampson has vowed to raise standards among Britain's van and heavy goods vehicle operators following his appointment as chairman of the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association's commercial vehicle committee.

Taking over from Neville Hodkin, of Salford Van Hire, who has chaired the committee for the past three years, Hampson said he intended to push for recognised operating certification to become a common requirement of all delivery and haulage firms. Brian Back, managing director of Mann Egerton Vehicle Contracts, remains chairman of the BVRLA's leasing and fleet management committee, and Mersey Hire chief Don Strathdee is to continue as head of the rental committee until July.

Peter Grime, of Miles and Miles, becomes vice-chairman, replacing Swift Rent-A-Car chief executive and former BVRLA chairman Colin McLean. Simon Kerr continues as chairman.