AVRO News & Magazine 68

Inside

HEADLINERS

NEWS FROM AVRO MEMBERS

AND YOUR INDUSTRY

GRAHAM’S GAB

LATEST VIEWS FROM THE

INDUSTRY'S LEADING VOICE

THE ASSOCIATION OF VEHICLE RECOVERY OPERATORS JULY & AUGUST 2025 | ISSUE 68

First for

AVRO

members

NEWS

& MAGAZINE

Successful

embankment

rescue for

Bartletts

GRAHAM VISITS

AVRO MEMBERS IN

YORKSHIRE

Members in focus

Plus!

INDUSTRY FOCUS

TACKLING THE MYTH OF SUBMERSION

FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLES

THE VOICE OF THE BREAKDOWN & RECOVERY OPERATOR

EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!

AVRO News & Magazine 68.indd 1 18/08/2025 11:58

Help when and where

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TRANSPORTATION


AVRO EXECUTIVE WELCOME

Hello

Welcome to another packed

magazine full of fantastic

member focussed content!

We have been extremely busy

preparing a response to the

Home Office consultation

for the recovery, storage and

disposal of motor vehicles

statutory fee matrix, despite our presentations

on the costs incurred by recovery operators to

try and accommodate the recovery and storage

of electric vehicles, the Home Office has declined

to accept that there are vast extra costs for the

operator and hiding behind the supposed lack of

evidence in respect of managing damaged EVs

and only considering our increased costs since

the last uplift in matrix fees where currently since

2022 we realistically need a 19% uplift in fees

just to standstill.

In our response to the consultation, we have

included evidence on our real costs to maintain a

Police contract 24hrs per day and have pleaded a

strong case for urgent review of EVs, we will just

have to wait and see.

Finally, the review of PAS43 has been

completed and now sits with BSI for their

consideration which may take a couple of

months, but we will keep you posted.

Back in February the DVSA decided to re-write,

guidance to recovery operators, which sent shock

waves through the industry especially in the

section in respect of a broken down vehicle and a

heavy recovery truck now having a ceiling of the

combination exceeding 44,000 kgs requiring an

abnormal load order which could take three days

for agreement bearing in mind your loaded three

axle dustcart already pushes the combination

over the threshold of STGO, with meetings and

regular communication continues on obtaining

a blanket dispensation to move combinations

that exceed 44,000 kgs which has made some

progress albeit slow and AVRO were invited to

voice its members concerns with the guidance

and a document has been sent to DVSA for their

consideration, however we have been told that

any specific change to road traffic legislation

could take years but perhaps new guidance that

recognises our concerns within the industry

would go a long way towards operators feeling

more comfortable when providing a just in time

vehicle breakdown and recovery service.

Preparations for our attendance at the Tow

Show are well under way and we look forward to

seeing you there.

Mick

Mick Puleston

Head of Association

mick@avrouk.com

THE REVIEW OF

PAS43 HAS BEEN

COMPLETED AND

NOW SITS WITH

THE BSI FOR THEIR

CONSIDERATION

WHICH MAY TAKES

A COUPLE OF

MONTHS, BUT WE

WILL KEEP YOU

POSTED

Mick Puleston

AVROUK.COM AVRO NEWS & MAGAZINE | 1


AVRO

We’re on the move!

AVRO HEAD OFFICE

Santis House, Curriers Close

Charter Avenue Industrial Estate

Coventry, CV4 8AW

Tel: 01788 572850

Email: sara@avrouk.com

graham@avrouk.com

www.avrouk.com

MANAGEMENT

Head of Association

Mick Puleston

Executive Committee Chairman

Gary Grieve

AVRO Business Consultant

Graham Steedman

Office Manager

Sara Needham

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Mark Crozier, Eric Hammond,

James Weedon, Craig Alexander,

Phil Richford, Nick Welch,

Jeff Bungey, Anya Ijaz

MEMBERSHIP

Head Office - 01788 572850

AVRO BUSINESS PARTNERS

EFT Finance

SCG Together Limited

Silvey Fleet

Howden

APEX

Licence Check

ASSOCIATE MEMBERS

Apex Networks Ltd

Boniface Engineering Ltd

Call Assist

Cougar Lubricants

ELP Engineering Ltd

Hadleigh Breakdown

LV=Britannia Rescue

Network Training Partnership Ltd

Professional Recovery Drivers Club

Prosol UK

Tower Supplies

RED (Recovery Equipment Direct)

part of BHW Group Ltd

RecoveryVehicles.com

Roger Dyson Limited

Super Power Winch

QR CODES - SCAN FOR MORE!

As you turn the pages of the new look AVRO magazine you will notice

that some articles, features and news stories are accompanied by

a QR code. The codes are here to help you quickly access digital

content on your smart phone.

Some QR codes will direct you to a website associated with the

story or business, some of the codes will open your email provider

and prepare an email to be sent.

Reading the codes is simple, open your smart phone and hold the

phone with the camera open over the QR code until you see a link

appear and then click the link.

We’re excited to announce

that the Tow Show is

moving to a new home

Situated just outside Coventry, Stoneleigh Park is the

perfect venue for the future of the number one event in the

recovery industry.

With plenty of indoor space plus options for exhibiting

outside, we’re excited that the contract has now been

signed, with Stoneleigh becoming the home to the Tow

Show for 2025 and beyond.

More information on next

AVRO ARE LOOKING year’s show will be included

FORWARD TO

in future issues, but we are

planning tours of the new

EXHIBITING venue for existing and new

exhibitors. AT THE TOW SHOW!

For COME more AND information MEET THE TEAM please AND email OUR BUSINESS PARTNERS . . .

Nick Phipps on nick.phipps@kelsey.co.uk

or call 01959 543562

Stoneleigh Park - Coventry

Wednesday 1st & Thursday 2nd October 2025

Halls

1 & 2

Walkway

2 | AVRO NEWS & MAGAZINE

AVROUK.COM


Inside

JULY & AUGUST 2025 | ISSUE 68

4

| GRAHAM'S GAB

AVRO is gearing up for the

Tow Show plus news about the

2025/26 AVRO Directory

12

10

| OPINION - THE AVRO MAILBOX

Caravans! Don't do it if it doesn't work for you! Asking the

question, is 32p per mile enough for you to tow a caravan that

could be worth upwards of 25k?

16

AVRO

NEWS & MAGAZINE

AVRO News & Magazine is

published by The Association

of Vehicle Recovery Operators

(AVRO).

PUBLISHER & DESIGN

James Baylis

content@avrouk.com

Tel: 07977 481186

ADVERTISING SALES

Sara Needham

sara@avrouk.com

Tel: 01788 572850

Graham Steedman

graham@avrouk.com

Tel: 07864 673533

EDITORIAL

James Baylis

content@avrouk.com

Sara Needham

sara@avrouk.com

BACK ISSUES

AVRO Head Office

Tel: 01788 572850

| RECOVERY INDUSTRY NEWS

Call Assist continues to support the local

community with fund raising events

20

| GRAHAM VISITS!

God's own country! - Graham

visits operators in Yorkshire

| INDUSTRY FOCUS

| RECOVERY OF THE MONTH

Bartletts Service Station on the Isle of Wight,

were recently called to rescue a vehicle from the

bottom of an embankment

26

Why submersion tactics should no longer be used in the recovery

of lithium-ion battery vehicles, by Neil Pedersen

AVRO News & Magazine is designed

and produced for AVRO by Penvale

House Publishing. (Trading as Plus2

Media Limited)

Contact: James Baylis

Email: james@plus2media.co.uk

Tel: 07977 481186

AVRO News & Magazine keeps you

up to date with news, features and

comments. Your letters comments and

story leads are always welcome. Contact

the Publisher at the address above.

Every care is taken over the accuracy

of material, but the publishers cannot

be held responsible for any errors

or omissions. Views and opinions of

contributors are not necessarily those

of the publishers who cannot accept

responsibility for such contributions.

© AVRO 2025

No part of this magazine may be

re-produced without the written

permission of AVRO or the publisher.



GRAHAM'S GAB

Graham’s

AVRO's Business Consultant Graham Steedman discusses

the important topics that effect your industry and business

Gab

Gab

Gearing up for

the Tow Show

Graham Steedman

Business Consultant

graham@avrouk.com

Tel: 07864 673533

Tow Show

Yes, it is almost that time again!

The reason I bring this to your

attention this early is to enable you

to plan travel and accommodation

as it is expected to be very well

attended this year due to the brandnew

venue.

From its home ground of Telford the Tow

Show will be presented at Stoneleigh Park just

outside Coventry.

Having been down there recently to secure

the AVRO stand and location – you will not be

disappointed!

It has two large indoor halls and plenty of

outside space.

My only concern is accommodation hence

the thumbs up!

Along with our business partners we have

secured a great location (details to follow) to

welcome our old and new members alike.

We have repeated our theme of a ‘one stop

shop' whereby our business partners will be in

situ on the AVRO Stand to offer you genuine

member benefits which many of our members

already enjoy.

Our staff and members of our executive

board will be there to welcome you for a catch

up and ‘shoot the breeze’.

For the many years I have attended

Trade Shows (Motor Trade) it offers you


AVROUK.COM


GRAHAM'S GAB

ALL I WOULD SAY TO THAT IS 'WITHOUT TEACHING MY GRANNY

TO SUCK EGGS' IS ENSURE THE RATES YOU ARE OFFERED ARE SUSTAINABLE

FOR YOUR BUSINESS AND YOU ARE NOT TEMPTED WITH THE

'BUSY FOOL' SCENARIO.

Graham Steedman

the environment and a platform to meet up

with your fellow colleagues within the same

industry and as a result I learned an awful lot

from them .

For that reason alone it is worth the effort.

A special welcome to our new and potential

members where you will have the opportunity

to meet up with Industry Work Providers

who will be in attendance if you feel inclined

to listen to their Contract offers and if it so

happens your location fits the bill and there is

an open point.

All I would say to that is 'without teaching

my granny to suck eggs’ is ensure the rates you

are offered are sustainable for your business

and you are not tempted with the ‘busy fool'

scenario.

It is obviously a commercial decision only

you can make!

Last year for example from memory, AA,

RAC, Green Flag, Call Assist and Britannia

Rescue all had a stand (apologies if I missed

any out).

In fact what I can confirm is our neighbours

this year will be Call Assist hosted by Ben

Johnson.

Finally, I alluded to our Business Partners.

Russell from Howdens Insurance one of the

largest brokers with specific knowledge of our

industry.

Robert from Silvey Fleet who offer fuel cards

to almost 30% of our membership – why would

that be I wonder?

Greg and Richard from EFT Finance where

Greg is a very well-known figure in our

industry and Richard who specifically deals

with our membership offering competitive

funding, not just for vehicles!

Carmen and Ryan of SCG Together Tele

Communications who are our newly appointed

business partners who offer great deals and

contracts to our members on anything to do

with telecommunications.

Don’t miss it – see you there!

AVRO Annual Directory 2025/26

Depending on what space is still available I

strongly recommend, particularly our new

members and old to invest in an advert in the

most read publication in the Industry.

It is a fabulous ‘tool’ used by most as it lists

all member details and can offer the following:

l Increases your company visibility to

potential customers who are actively

seeking your services

l AVRO annual directory ensures that it is

viewed by relevant audience.

l Connects you with interested leads

l Enhances your credibility and trust.

Above all, compared to traditional

advertising the AVRO Annual Directory is more

cost effective, providing good value for your

marketing spend.

Full Page only £450, half page for only

£300, quarter page only £220 or even eighth

page only £180.

Graham

Join the industry

association

Contact Graham today to

join AVRO's growing list of

members and help shape the

future of your industry.

Scan the QR code below to

email Graham.

Stay safe, enjoy this

issue of AVRO News &

Magazine and don't

hesitate to contact

Sara or James with

your news and views

for the next issue!



INDUSTRY NEWS

DON'T FORGET

AVRO HAVE

MOVED!

AVRO's

new

address

Santis House,

Curriers Close

Charter Avenue

Industrial Estate

Coventry,

CV4 8AW

Telephone:

01788

572850

Apex job predictor:

Smarter planning

from the control room

to the roadside

WITH JOB

PREDICTOR,

OPERATORS CAN

MAKE INFORMED

DECISIONS EARLIER

- SAVING TIME

AND REDUCING

COSTS

Nicky Fenton

Apex Networks’ Job Predictor feature is

transforming how recovery operators

plan and respond to jobs - giving Control

Rooms the insight they need before a

team even arrives on scene.

Now live across all Apex RMS

systems, Job Predictor uses a

purpose-built algorithm that

combines real-time data with

historical trends to forecast

whether a job is likely to be a fix or a tow.

By analysing key factors such as job type,

location, time of day, and the outcomes

of similar past jobs, it provides an early,

intelligent prediction that empowers

dispatchers to make faster, more accurate

decisions.

With this early insight, Control Rooms can:

l Allocate the right type of technician or

vehicle first time

l Equip teams with the appropriate tools and

parts

l Avoid unnecessary call-backs or vehicle

swaps

l Streamline communication with drivers,

who know what to expect before they arrive

“It’s about reducing guesswork,” says

Nicky Fenton from Apex. “With Job Predictor,

operators can make informed decisions earlier

- saving time, reducing costs, and improving

the service customers receive at the roadside.”

Since its release, Job Predictor has

quickly become a key tool for many recovery

businesses - especially those handling high

volumes of jobs or operating across large

regions. It’s helping to cut down on delays,

improve first-time fix rates, and enable

smoother hand overs between shifts, as

dispatchers gain greater confidence in their

planning.

Most importantly, it’s proving how data can

enhance front line decision-making without

adding complexity - helping recovery teams

stay one step ahead while focusing on the job

at hand.

The Apex team is continually working

behind the scenes to build on the success of

Job Predictor. New features are already in

development to make the tool even more

powerful - giving operators deeper insights

to help plan the day ahead with even

greater precision. Watch this space for more

updates, including smarter job categorisation,

improved outcome forecasting, and tighter

integration with other RMS planning tools.

Our goal is simple: to give recovery operators

the confidence, clarity, and control they need -

right from the start of every job.

Find our more -

If you’d like to know more about the Apex Job Predictor, our team is always happy to help at

sales@apex-networks.com or call 0203 195 6757.


AVROUK.COM


Send your news stories to: content@avrouk.com

INDUSTRY NEWS

Is poor network

coverage grinding your

business to a halt?

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eSIMs are the answer, "having a second network SIM

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AVRO MAILBOX

Opinion

Your association, AVRO - leading the conversation!

NO WONDER HE

IS CONCERNED

- IT IS SIMPLY

YET AGAIN

NOT FEASIBLE

CURRENTLY TO

PROVIDE SUCH

A SERVICE

CARAVANS -

DON'T DO IT, IF IT

DOESN'T WORK

FOR YOU!

Graham Steedman

AVRO business consultant

What do

you think?

Is 32p per mile enough to

consider towing a caravan

that can be worth anything

upto 50k?

Help AVRO move the

discussion forward!

Send your comments

for publication to:

content@avrouk.com or

sara@avrouk.com

Or send your message

via WhatsApp to:

07977 481186

A

member has asked me to

highlight a major concern

regarding the towing of

caravans.

I am led to believe that one

‘work provider’ is only prepared to pay 32p

per mile for this service.

No wonder he is concerned – it is simply

yet again not feasible currently to provide

such a service.

These Caravans are valued from 25k up

to 50k in many instances.

The well talked about insurance hikes,

the rising fuel costs, the extra training

required all adds up to a complete farce of

agreeing to accept such a job at 32p per

mile.

To be fair, I have only this example from

one work provider, however, I cannot see it

deviating much based on past experience.

So, on behalf of the member who kindly

pointed it out and asked AVRO to highlight

it I suggest you simply charge what you

feel it needs to be to carry out this kind of

recovery.

Don’t do it if it does not work for you!


AVROUK.COM



GRAHAM'S GAB EXTRA

Graham’s

AVRO's Business Consultant Graham Steedman discusses

the important topics that effect your industry and business

Gab

EXTRA!

Gab

Police stat fees

consultation

Diary

Dates

The

Emergency

Services

Show

17-18 September 2025

NEC, Birmingham

Engage with ground-breaking

innovations at Europe's premier

emergency services event,

where technology and learning

propel emergency response and

public safety forward.

It is important to point out that although this

consultation applies to Police contractors

the outcome can have far reaching positive

outcomes for all.

Hence the reason AVRO have

spent a lot of money and time

preparing such a consultation

response with the help of Matt

Wilkinson (pictured below) ex.

Met Police who specialises on such matters.

Therefore, I would like to thank Matt and

our own Gary and Mick for preparing such for

the Home Office.

You the member, have played your part in

this and have backed up all the hard work by

responding to the Home Office.

On behalf of AVRO, I thank you for this as it

is so important we are seen as a united front.

This consultation is for England and Wales.

We will of course keep you updated on

events.

The Scottish stat fees are ongoing

also and will be secured prior to

England and Wales.

AVRO were in fact approached

directly by the Scottish government

to participate which shows the

standing AVRO continue to have

in the vehicle recovery industry.

Republic of Ireland, following

on from a discussion we had with

Derek Behan last month whom I

respect and recognise has great

influence in the region there are several

concerns he has raised which I wish to address.

One of which is PAS43 inspections.

I have spoken to Raymond Conlin of RIES

and he is very much aware of the situation

and is working extremely hard to remedy this

serious issue.

Derek has been made aware and I am

confident between us we can resolve the

matter.

I am also aware that three out of four of

our business partners are unable to benefit

ROI simply because they are in the European

Union.

I am aware of that and am looking at ways

we can resolve that issue.

In the meantime it is my intention via a

member communication for ROI members only

to send out a questionnaire and will appreciate

a good response to the questions I raise.

In Northern Ireland, the Police contract

attracts a lot of concerns and issues but do

appreciate there does not appear to be

uniformity throughout the UK, that

particularly applies to Northern Ireland.

I am delighted that Chris O’Hara

from the PSNI has accepted an

appointment to discuss issues and

concerns.

Look forward to our

discussions and will report

back to our members in

due course.

AVRO

MEMBERS

DIRECTORY

2025

AVRO's annual A4 Members

Directory is distributed FREE

to every AVRO member,

associate members, key

industry stakeholders and work

providers.

For more information about

advertising and sponsorship

opportunities in the 2025

Members Directory please

contact Sara Needham on

01788 572850.



AVRO INDUSTRY NEWS


Diary

Dates

Call Assist continues

to support the local

community fund raise

Professional

Recovery Tow

Show 2025

1 - 2 October 2025

Stoneleigh Park

New for 2025: The

Professional Recovery Tow

Show moves to Stoneleigh

Park!

Through exhibiting the

latest designs in vehicle and

equipment technology, product

innovations plus attendance

of all the major work providers

and key industry suppliers, this

is now firmly established as

the event in the calendar of

the vehicle recovery industry

to meet and talk business, do

business, and discover about all

of the important developments

within a fast-changing

marketplace.

Highways UK

15-16 October 2025

NEC, Birmingham

Highways UK brings together

the people responsible for

planning, developing, managing,

maintaining and future-proofing

the nation's roads networks.

Last month, the Call Assist team put on their walking boots and took part in

St Helena Hospice’s flagship fundraising event: the Pier to Pier walk.

This annual event has been taking place

since 2011 and continues to be a key fund

raiser in ensuring that St Helena Hospice

staff are able to continue the fabulous

work they do.

Starting at Clacton Pier, the Call Assist team took

a scenic coastal stroll all the way to Walton Pier, with

some opting to make the journey back to Clacton Pier

walking a staggering total of 14 miles. But the team took

it on in their stride and were successful in raising a

grand total of £1128.75 for St Helena Hospice!

These valuable funds will help to ensure that St

Helena Hospice is able to continue providing crucial

support to those in need.

St Helena Hospice is a charity that helps people

in north east Essex face incurable illness and

bereavement by supporting them, their families,

friends and carers.

But the charitable efforts didn’t stop there!

Earlier this month, Call Assist staff were

privileged with the chance to meet some

of the wonderful staff and volunteers at

Colchester food bank.

Whilst there, the Call Assist team spent

the day lending a helping hand, sorting

and packing food parcels. They also

utilised this opportunity to further support

the community by providing donations,

everything from the essentials to treats and

body care, to be given to those in the local community

who need it most.

Call Assist is thrilled to have been able to contribute

to the fantastic work that the food bank undertakes in

providing support to the local community. Ben Johnson,

Call Assist Director of Networks, spoke about the

experience:

“It was a privilege to volunteer at the Colchester

food bank along with my colleagues from Call Assist.


AVROUK.COM



AVRO INDUSTRY NEWS

Hopefully this is the start of a long relationship with a

wonderful charity that gives so much to the residents

of Colchester who find themselves facing financial

difficulties.

“Many of us take for granted the access we have

to the basics such as food and clothes, so to witness

first hand how the food bank supports individuals and

families facing food insecurity, not only with the basic

supplies but also advice on other areas of help or

perhaps just by taking time for a chat, is humbling and a

testament to the permanent volunteers involved.”

Colchester food bank is part of The Trussell Trust’s

nationwide network of 428 food banks, working to

combat poverty and hunger across the UK.

Achieved by startrescue.co.uk which is a

trading style of Call Assist Ltd.

We continue to grow through

innovation and a dedicated service

from our valued VRO Network

which receives 100% of our work.

VRO Hotline:

01206 771700

www.call-assist.co.uk


AVRO INDUSTRY NEWS


AVRO

BUSINESS

PARTNERS

New car registrations

stall in July, say SMMT

Trust us to get the best financial

deal for you.

www.eftfinance.co.uk

Discounted insurance premiums for

AVRO members.

www.howdengroup.com/uk-en

Big diesel savings, service and

security with Silvey Fleet.

www.silveyfleet.co.uk

The new car market stalled in July

with registrations falling -5.0% to

140,154 units, according to the

latest figures published by the

Society of Motor Manufacturers and

Traders (SMMT). The performance was the

weakest for the month since 2022 and some

-10.8% lower than in pre-pandemic 2019,

demonstrating the market’s volatility and wider

economic setting.1

Demand from private and fleet buyers fell

-3.2% and -6.5% to 51,646 and 85,594 units

respectively, while registrations in the much

smaller business sector climbed 10.4% to

2,914 units. Declines were seen across most

segments, with only Dual Purpose, Mini and

Luxury Saloon models recording growth.2

Bucking the wider market performance,

registrations of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles

(PHEVs) rose 33.0% and battery electric

vehicles (BEVs) 9.1%, although the latter is

modest in comparison with the 34.6% increase

recorded for the first half of 2025. July was the

second weakest month of BEV growth this year,

after April’s tax changes distorted the market in

that month.

The newly announced Electric Car Grant

(ECG) provides a welcome and much-needed

fiscal incentive for BEV uptake, but full model

eligibility has yet to be confirmed, causing

some buyers to hold off pending confirmation

of which vehicles will qualify for a discount

of up to £3,750. BEV market share reached

21.3%, up from 18.5% in the same month last

year, but remains short of the 28% required

by the ZEV Mandate, demonstrating the

importance of accelerating uptake over the

remainder of the year.

Hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) transactions

declined -10.0% to 18,551 units while

combined petrol and diesel deliveries fell

-14.0% to 74,289 units, but still accounted for

more than half (53.0%) of July’s market.

Year-to-date, the overall market remains

up 2.4% at 1.18 million units, including more

than a quarter of a million BEVs, thanks

to a plethora of attractive new models and

substantial manufacturer discounting. July’s

decline is expected to be temporary, with the

latest market outlook – undertaken before

eligible ECG models were confirmed – revised

up to 1.9 million units for 2025, with BEV

volumes revised up marginally too and

expected to take a 23.8% share.

MISSED AN ISSUE?

The AVRO office holds limited stock, back issues of the AVRO magazine. To

enquire about availability please contact Sara Needham - sara@avrouk.com

or call the AVRO office on - 01788 572850.


AVROUK.COM


R3500

THE ULTIMATE RECOVERY SOLUTION

CALL: 07973 858 509 EMAIL: SALES@RICHFORDMOTORS.COM

KEY STATS

Low-Height Access – Lifts just 700mm.

Fully Electric – Eco-friendly with zero emissions.

Compact & Manoeuvrable – Perfect for tight spaces.

100m Remote Control – Operate safely from a distance.

3,500kg Lifting Capacity – Handles a wide range of vehicles.

07973 858 509

sales@richfordmotors.com

Specialists in Heavy and Light Recovery, 24/7 Nationwide Service


AVRO MEMBER RECOVERY

Successful

embankment

rescue for

Bartletts

Scan the QR code to visit

the Bartletts Service Station

website.


AVROUK.COM



EXPERIENCE AND THE

RIGHT EQUIPMENT ARE ALL THAT

YOU NEED

AVRO member, Bartletts Service Station on the Isle of Wight,

were recently called to rescue a vehicle from the bottom of an

embankment. Dan from Bartletts picks up the story...

You may have seen on

the County Press that

we were called to an

incident that occurred

in Shanklin yesterday.

We were instructed to retrieve

a vehicle from the bottom of an

embankment. This was considerably

lower down than first expected!

The recovery needed careful

planning and the expertise of Steve

and Dan, both very experienced

recovery operatives. Two units

were in place, the Foden and the

Mercedes Antos. The Mercedes

was used to winch the vehicle up

from the embankment to a position

where the Foden could lift it out

safely.

Steve had to scramble down the

embankment to secure the vehicle

with brother straps, which was no

mean feat in itself. This allowed

them to attach the winch to bring

the vehicle to position. Lifting straps

were put in place, and it was then

down to Dan to operate the Foden

and lift it out.

This was a very successful

operation and one that they made

look very easy. Experience and the

right equipment are all you need.

More pictures on page 18>




Help shape the future

of YOUR industry!

For all membership enquiries or to discuss how becoming an AVRO

member can benefit you and your business please contact the AVRO

head office on 01788 572850 or email Sara on: sara@avrouk.com


AVROUK.COM



SHARE YOUR

RECOVERY!

Have you recently completed

an interesting recovery job that

you would like to share with the

industry and your fellow

AVRO members?

Send your pictures and a few

words to describe the situation

and how you performed the

recovery to:

content@avrouk.com

or you can message

via WhatsApp to

07977 481186

24 Hour Roadside Assistance Tel: 0161 273 2000

Bus & Coach Specialists

Heavy Recovery

Off Road Recovery

Fleet Maintenance

Service Vans

Storage / Workshops

Nationwide

Breakdown

Coverage

MANCHESTER

BREAKDOWN

SERVICES

Transport Manager | E. A. Downes & Sons Ltd

info@manchesterbreakdown.co.uk /

www.manchesterbreakdown.co.uk



AVRO MEMBER FOCUS

Graham’s

AVRO's Business Consultant Graham Steedman reports

from Yorkshire and his latest operator visits..

Visits

Yorkshire

God's own

country!

Graham's latest travels around the UK to meet AVRO members new

and old takes him to God's own country, Yorkshire and a meeting with Stoneywood

Motor Services and AHM Autos.


AVROUK.COM


AVRO MEMBER FOCUS

l Two handsome chaps Colin

Exley owner of Stoneywood and

an unshaven AVRO Business

Consultant showing off his new

brand new false teeth.

Stoneywood

Motor Services

Stoneywood Motors Limited was

established in 1979 by Colin, John

and Harry and have been proudly

recovering vehicles in the Calder

Valley area and beyond for over

40 years. With depots in both Halifax and

Bradford they are well placed to cover all areas

of Yorkshire and work from Liverpool to York,

Derby to Middlesborough and everywhere else

in-between.

Colin, John and Harry are extremely proud

of the company they have built up and with a

strong team behind them they are looking to

the future with renewed optimism.

They have over 40 vehicles in their fleet and

are committed to growing with any change

in demands. They have vans for transporting

goods, standard recovery trucks for regular

vehicles, heavy duty flatbeds for larger

vehicles, heavy duty recovery vehicles, tractors,

jeeps and more.

Stoneywood, have extensive garage facilities,

fully equipped and offer services and MOTs.

Other services include; commercial recovery

and workshop work, commercial transportation

and secure storage.


the Stoneywood Motor

Services website.



AVRO MEMBER FOCUS

l Ben, behind his desk of the Stoneywood satelite branch in Bradford.

l Stoneywood's control room, run very efficiently by Alistair and Ken.

Graham said...

"Stoneywood have installed this new segregated area for electric vehicles including

a blue container for electric scooters.

Please understand that the cost of such a facility was a six figure sum to

facilitate a Police contract which they have held for over 40 years.

So I ask, how do they get that investment back given the current rates. That

is the big question and it has to be addressed by all concerned as at current it is

totally unviable."


AVROUK.COM


AVRO MEMBER FOCUS

Graham said...

"AHM Recovery are relatively new members serving the

local community with a view to bidding for work provider

business.

This family business operates from a newly refurbished

unit in a small industrial estate and are more than happy to

offer relay work for our members.

Zully pictured behind the desk claims to be the boss along

side his business manager Sakib.

However, I know who the real boss is that runs the show

and that is Zully’s wife, Zahera, pictured in the middle of one

of their vehicles with Zully on her left and Sakib on her right

She also cooks a ‘mean’ chicken curry which I sampled

during my visit!"

AHM Autos

AHM Autos are based in Thornton,

Bradford. They are a family-run

team of experienced, professional

recovery operators offering 24/7

roadside assistance, breakdown

recovery, and vehicle transport across Yorkshire

and beyond. They service; Bradford, Keighley,

Dewsbury, Leeds, Halifax, Shipley, Harrogate,

Sheffield, Huddersfield and Wakefield.

With over a decade of hands-on experience,

AHM Autos understand the urgency and stress

involved in vehicle breakdown issues. That’s

why they are committed to fast response times,

expert handling, and affordable, transparent

pricing every time.

Their fleet is equipped to handle everything

from cars and vans to motorbikes and quads.

Whether you need accident recovery, scrap

vehicle removal, or secure vehicle storage, they

have got the right tools and personnel for the

job.

They are very proud to serve individuals,

garages, insurance companies, and commercial

fleets alike and at AHM Autos, customer

satisfaction is not just a priority it’s their

promise.


the AHM Autos website.



AVRO INDUSTRY NEWS

News

Keep the industry informed with your news and events

UNFORTUNATELY,

OUR RESEARCH

SUGGESTS

THERE'S A LOT

OF TROUBLING

'ADVISORY

APATHY' AMONG

DRIVERS

Nick Mullender

RAC

One-in-six drivers who

ignore MOT advisories suffer

a breakdown – or worse

RAC warns against ‘advisory apathy’ or run the gauntlet of a breakdown

One-in-six drivers (17%) who didn’t

act on advisory notices following

an MOT in the last 12 months – an

estimated 6m people – went on to

experience a vehicle breakdown

or were involved in a collision as a result,

according to new RAC research.*

Of the 1,460 drivers who have had their

vehicle recently MOT’d, 44% said the test

resulted in one or more advisory notices being

given. These notices are early warning signs

that could result in a future MOT failure – and

not addressing them promptly could lead to

a vehicle being unsafe and unfit for the road.

Examples include tyres being close to the legal

limit, brake pads being almost completely worn

out, and minor (for now) oil leaks.

While a majority of drivers whose vehicles

were given MOT advisories (60%) said they

had either already dealt with all the issues

flagged, or planned to before the next test, a

substantial four-in-10 (39%) don’t plan to get

all of the problems resolved. And, of all those

that weren’t issued with any advisories at their

most recent MOT, as many as a fifth (22%)

admitted to ignoring such notices in the past.

By running the gauntlet and not acting

on MOT advisories, drivers are at risk of

knowingly getting behind the wheel of

an unroadworthy vehicle. This is not only

dangerous – resulting in a £2,500 fine and

three penalty points if caught – it can also

invalidate motor insurance cover.

The most common MOT advisories over the

last year as reported by drivers in the RAC

Mobile Mechanics survey were related to

tyre wear (42%), brake pads or discs (34%),

suspension (22%), lights (16%) and corrosion

(14%). While tyre wear and lights are simple

things to check, that’s not the case for many

other issues that could become much bigger

and more expensive if left unresolved. For this

reason, it’s essential drivers get their car seen

by a mobile servicing and repairs mechanic or

booked into a reliable approved garage before

these issues get worse and become dangerous.

The latest Government data shows that

vehicle defects were a factor in 1,350 collisions

in 2023 – the highest number in five years.**

Of these, 36 collisions involved one or more

fatality, again the highest figure since 2018.

RAC mobile servicing and repairs team

leader Nick Mullender said: “The MOT is an

annual occurrence for millions of drivers up

and down the country, and serves as a vital

check on a vehicle’s roadworthiness. While

we all dread a failure, any advisories demand

attention because they mean the vehicle isn’t in

the best of health. Unfortunately, our research

suggests there’s a lot of troubling ‘advisory

apathy’ among drivers.

“It’s crucial that drivers keep a close eye on

any flagged items. Some things are far easier

for a driver to monitor than others."

J


AVROUK.COM


GOLD ACCREDITATION · GOLD ACCREDITATION ·

SSILVER ACCREDITATION ·

Help shape

the future

of YOUR

industry

JOIN THE LEADING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION TODAY!

AVRO MEMBERSHIP LEVELS & SUBSCRIPTIONS 2025

GOLD

ACCREDITATION

Is a member who meets AVRO

membership standards and is

accredited with PAS 43.

As Gold accredited members

are required to be accredited with

PAS 43 they are not subject to an

AVRO membership inspection.

AVRO membership levels are determined by the

standard to which a member is accredited to - either

AVRO membership standards and / or PAS 43.

ILVER ACCREDITATION ·

SILVER

ACCREDITATION

Is a member who meets AVRO

membership standards but is not

accredited with PAS 43.

The member will have accented

from Bronze accreditation

following a successful AVRO

membership inspection and

will continue to undergo such

inspection on a bi-annual basis.

If the member were to become

accredited with PAS 43 their

membership level would increase

to Gold accreditation.

MEMBERSHIP UNITED KINGDOM REPUBLIC OF IRELAND ADDITIONAL PREMISES

Members operating

three roadside and

recovery vehicles or less

£250.00

£50.00 VAT

£300.00 TOTAL

£230.00

£0.00 VAT

£230.00 TOTAL

£100.00

£20.00 VAT

£120.00 TOTAL

Members operating more

than three roadside and

recovery vehicles

£450.00

£90.00 VAT

£540.00 TOTAL

£400.00

£0.00 VAT

£400.00 TOTAL

£100.00

£20.00 VAT

£120.00 TOTAL

For all membership enquiries or to discuss how becoming an AVRO member can benefit you and your

business please contact the AVRO head office on 01788 572850 or email Sara on sara@avrouk.com

01788 572850 | sara@avrouk.com | www.avrouk.com


AVRO CASE STUDY

RECOVERY COMPANIES MUST MOVE AWAY FROM IMPROVISED

SUBMERSION TACTICS AND EMBRACE ENGINEERED SOLUTIONS.

WHAT WE NEED IS NOT MORE WATER - BUT BETTER STRATEGY.

Neil Pedersen

Fire Containers Limited


AVROUK.COM


AVRO CASE STUDY

Why submersion tactics

should no longer be used in

the recovery of lithium-ion

battery vehicles

As the global transition to electric vehicles (EVs) accelerates, so too does the

challenge of safely managing lithium-ion battery incidents, particularly in

post-collision or fire-related recovery scenarios.

For years, one of the most commonly

discussed methods for handling

runaway battery fires has been full

submersion in water. Yet, while

this may appear on the surface to

offer a reliable solution, the reality is far more

complex—and dangerous.

It is time the industry confronts an

inconvenient truth: submersion tactics are not

only outdated, but they pose significant safety,

environmental, logistical, and cost-related

risks. Instead, advanced water suppression

containment systems—such as those utilised

in purpose-built containment units—offer a far

more effective, scalable, and environmentally

responsible alternative.

The Myth of Submersion

Submersion is often marketed as a “catch-all”

solution: place the burning or compromised

EV in a large container, flood it with water, and

let it sit until the risk has passed. On paper,

it sounds logical. In practice, it’s riddled with

flaws.

1. Size and Impracticality

A typical electric vehicle weighs between

1.5 to 3 tonnes and is roughly 4–5 metres

long. Submerging such a vehicle requires a

container large enough to fully engulf it in

water, filled with tens of thousands of litres.

This volume is not only difficult to access in

most real-world recovery scenarios, especially

roadside or in urban areas, but also impossible

to mobilise quickly without significant delay

and infrastructure.

2. Environmental Hazards

Lithium-ion battery fires release toxic and

corrosive gases, and when these batteries

are submerged, the water rapidly becomes

contaminated with heavy metals, fluorinated

compounds, and harmful particulates. This

produces a hazardous waste by-product that

must be disposed of as chemical waste—

at high environmental and financial cost.

Spillages or improper containment can lead to

serious ecological damage.

3. Fire Re-Ignition Risk Not Resolved

The common belief that submersion ‘kills’ the

fire is misleading. Lithium-ion battery cells can

undergo thermal runaway—a self-sustaining

chemical reaction that doesn’t rely on oxygen.

Water may cool the battery temporarily, but

cells can reignite hours or even days later,

especially once the submerged vehicle is

removed. Submersion delays, but does not

neutralise, the root problem.

4. Logistics and Transport Challenges

Once submerged, how do you move the

Continued on page 28>

By Neil Pedersen

CEO / Founder




AVRO CASE STUDY

> Continued from page 27

Scan the QR code to visit the


website.

vehicle? Most recovery operators do not carry

30,000-litre submersion tanks. Transferring the

vehicle between the scene, a submersion tank,

and a disposal site increases the risk of cell

re-ignition, environmental leakage, and injury.

It also escalates operational complexity beyond

what recovery teams or emergency responders

are trained or equipped to manage.

The case for water suppression

containment

Rather than trying to extinguish thermal

runaway through sheer volume, a smarter,

safer method lies in controlled suppression

within purpose-built containment systems -

designed to isolate, cool, and control the event

while supporting emergency response and

recovery.

1. Engineered for real-world application

Water suppression containment units - such

as the Fire Safety Containment Unit (FSCU)

and Electric Vehicle Containment Unit (EVCU)

developed by Fire Containers limited - are

designed specifically to handle EV incidents.

These mobile units can be deployed at the

scene, allowing immediate containment

without moving the vehicle over long distances

or waiting for specialist tanks.

2. Targeted water mist technology

Unlike brute-force submersion, these units use

high-efficiency water mist suppression systems.

Fine water droplets rapidly absorb heat and

cool the battery casing, suppressing flames

and preventing escalation. Water is applied

directly to the risk zone, minimising waste and

environmental runoff.

3. Continuous suppression with water

recycling

Advanced units incorporate recycling sumps

and filtration systems, allowing for continual

suppression without requiring thousands of

litres of clean water. Contaminated water

is captured, filtered, and reused within the

sealed system - protecting the environment and

drastically reducing disposal costs.

4. Sealed and safe transport

Unlike submersion tanks, water suppression

containment units are built to comply with

ADR regulations, meaning they are legal

and safe to transport hazardous goods. The

vehicle remains sealed within the unit -

under suppression and observation - during

its journey to a secure facility. This reduces

the need for on-site firefighting and protects

recovery operators from toxic exposure.

5. Supporting ESG goals

With governments and industries focusing

increasingly on Environmental, Social, and

Governance (ESG) standards, submersion

methods stand in stark contrast to

sustainability goals. Water suppression

containment offers a cleaner, more sustainable,

and auditable solution, reducing environmental

impact and aligning with waste reduction

strategies.

The industry needs a shift

in thinking

Emergency services, recovery companies,

insurance providers, and transport agencies

must move away from improvised submersion

tactics and embrace engineered solutions.

What we need is not more water - but better

strategy.

Submersion tactics were born from necessity

during the early days of EV fires when no

better options existed. But times have changed.

Technology has evolved. The dangers of

submersion - environmental contamination,

inefficient suppression, re-ignition risk, and

legal liability - now far outweigh the benefits.

Water suppression containment units offer

a scalable, mobile, and environmentally

responsible method for lithium-ion battery

recovery and containment. They protect

people, property, and ecosystems - while

delivering operational efficiency and

compliance.

Final Thought

As electric vehicles continue to dominate our

roads, the incidents involving lithium-ion

batteries will only increase. We cannot afford

to rely on outdated or harmful tactics. It is time

the industry recognises that submersion is not

a solution - it’s a liability.

Water suppression containment is not only

the best option. It is the only responsible

option.


AVROUK.COM


AVRO CASE STUDY



NEW LOOK MAGAZINE!

The voice of

the breakdown

and recovery

operator!

For more information about advertising

and sponsorship opportunities in the

new look AVRO News & Magazine please

contact Sara Needham on 01788 572850

or email: sara@avrouk.com or contact

Graham Steedman on 07864 673533 or

email: graham@avrouk.com

NEWS

& MAGAZINE

IsisRescue

www.isisrescue.co.uk

WE ARE ISIS RESCUE.

AN OXFORDSHIRE BASED VEHICLE

BREAKDOWN, RECOVERY AND

REPAIR SERVICE.

FOR ALL CARS, COMMERCIALS, BUSES AND COACHES

01865 43 43 43

OXFORD

control@isisrescue.co.uk

BANBURY


AVROUK.COM



Bring back

buttons! Says

Start Rescue

AVRO MEMBER NEWS

AVRO

BUSINESS

PARTNERS

Three months free license fee for

AVRO members who purchase Apex

RMS software. (New enquiries only)

www.apex-networks.com

Leading UK breakdown provider Start Rescue is backing those

vehicle manufacturers opting to bring back physical buttons to the

dashboards of their latest models.

Scrolling through on-screen menus,

sometimes to perform the simplest

functions, concerns many safety

experts who believe this may be

distracting drivers from the road

ahead. Euro NCAP, the independent vehicle

safety rating organisation, will be introducing

stricter testing protocols for 2026, mandating

physical controls for key functions to reduce

eyes-off-road time and promote safer driving.

In fact, the issue has grown to the extent

that drivers are even calling their breakdown

provider for support after touch screen

problems bring their journey to a premature

halt, with Start Rescue seeing an increase in

touch screen related call-outs.

“Our UK support centre is receiving calls

from customers facing touch screen issues.

We’re receiving reports of screens ‘freezing’

and individual operations not responding

with customers thinking there’s a much wider

problem” says Lee Puffett, Managing Director

of Start Rescue.

“We’re backing manufacturers reintroducing

more buttons, switches and

rotary controls. It’s welcome from a safety

perspective with key equipment like screen

demisting always being available with a quick

click and not being wholly reliant on a touch

screen.”

Start Rescue is also receiving customer

enquiries concerning ‘juddering’ steering

wheels which are activated by lane assist

systems or driver drowsiness and awareness

alerts.

Stuart Masson, Editorial Director of

The Car Expert, one of the UK’s leading

independent authorities on new and used

cars and motoring matters adds: “The good

news is that manufacturers are responding

to customer needs. Important new cars we’ve

evaluated from several major brands now

offer more well-positioned buttons and that’s

a direct result of customer feedback.”

Start Rescue believes the solution lies in

a balanced approach combining easy-touse

screens with simple, physical buttons

for key controls. The company is calling on

manufacturers to:

l Prioritise hybrid dashboards that combine

physical and digital interfaces

l Ensure critical safety functions are never

buried in menus

l Allow drivers to customise alerts and

display preferences

l Improve software to prevent screen-freeze

and lag

If you have repeated issues with your car’s

touch screen, Start Rescue always advises to

seek qualified, professional support as there

may be a hardware issue or damage to the

display.

Licence Check, AVRO's driving licence

verification service at preferential

rates.

sara@avrouk.com



AVRO EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

AVRO EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

HEAD OF ASSOCIATION EXEC. COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN BUSINESS CONSULTANT

MICK PULESTON

Region: South East

Email Address:

mick@avrouk.com

GARY GRIEVE

Region: Northern

Email Address:

gary@avrouk.com

GRAHAM STEEDMAN

Region: Scotland

Email Address:

graham@avrouk.com

MARK CROZIER

Region: Scotland

Auto Services Perth Ltd

Email Address:

m.crozier@asp.scot

ERIC HAMMOND

Region: West Midlands

Fillongley Garage

Email Address:

eric@fillongleygarage.com

JAMES WEEDON

Region: South Midlands

Isis Rescue

Email Address:

james@isisrescue.co.uk

CRAIG ALEXANDER

Region: Eastern

Norfolk Recovery

Email Address:

craig@norfolkrecovery.com

PHIL RICHFORD

Region: Republic of Ireland

Richford Motors

Email Address:

phil@richfordmotors.com

NICK WELCH

Region: South West

GRS Recovery (Bournemouth)

Email Address:

nick@grsrecovery.co.uk

JEFF BUNGEY

Region: South West

Ashley Wood Recovery

Email Address:

jeff@ashleywoodrecovery.com

ANYA IJAZ

Region: West Midlands

Oasis Rescue

Email Address:

anya@oasisrescue.co.uk


AVROUK.COM


AVRO REGIONS

AVRO REGIONS & HQ.

Head Office

Santis House, Curriers Close,

Charter Avenue Industrial Estate,

Coventry CV4 8AW

Tel: 01788 572850

www.avrouk.com

Office Manager

Sara Needham

Tel: 01788 572850

Email: sara@avrouk.com

1

14

2

15

3

4

5

7

6

9

8

12

11

10

1 Scotland

2 Northern

3 North East

4 North West

5 North Midlands

6 West Midlands

7 South Wales

8 South Midlands

9 Eastern

10 Greater London

11 South East

12 South West

14 Northern Ireland

15 Republic of Ireland



Unity.indd 1 8/9/11 15:41:38

CONNECT

Member to member AVRO Connect keeps

you in touch with your fellow operators!

Connect

with

AVRO

members

Call Sara Needham on 01788 572850

to advertise in AVRO Connect.

BREAKDOWN, TRANSPORT

& LOGISTIC SOLUTIONS

With our extensive range of transport and recovery

vehicles, backed up by highly skilled technicians and

over 40 years of experience, we provide a world class

professional service to the breakdown, transport and

logistics industries.

• Breakdown

• Transport

• Logistic Solutions

• Covered Transport

Throughout the UK & Europe.

0800 282449

www.cmg-org.com

• Low Loader Logistics

• Multicar Vehicle Logistics

• Nationwide Fleet Assistance

• Backload Portal

For more information, email info@cmg-org.com or backloads@cmg-org.com

TO BOOK THIS SPACE CALL

SARA NEEDHAM

AT AVRO ON

01788 572850

DON'T FORGET TO ASK ABOUT DISCOUNTED RATES FOR

BOOKING A SERIES RUN!

W26 CMG General Services 50x91 advert V2.indd 1 03/07/2020 10:50

Boarhunt Garage & Recovery Services Ltd

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DEPOT LOCATIONS

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www.richfordmotors.com

Unit 3B & 4 Fulwood Road Lodge Lane Ind Estate 33 Chartwell Drive DEPOT


AVRO

www.richfordmotors.com


AVRO

HEAD OFFICE

Dunsford Road

Alfreton

Derbyshire

DE55 7RH

T: 01773 835192

• Registered PAS 43 operator • MOT testing centre class 4 & 7

• ISO 9001 Certification • HGV roadside assistance • NHSS 17 and 17b certified

• Full workshop repairs and diagnostics equipment

Soloman Road

Cossall, Notts

DE7 5UE

T: 01159 444 944

• All operatives hold IVR ID and ADR license

• Full accident repairs centre for cars and commercials

Fulwood Road South

Huthwaite

Sutton-in-Ashfield

NG17 2JZ

T: 01623 556 868

Lodge Lane

Tuxford

Newark

Notts

NG22 0NL

T: 01777 872 177

Wigston

Leicester

Leicestershire

LE18 2FL

T: 01162 885 820

12 Farfield Park

Manvers

Barnsley

South Yorkshire

S63 5DB

T: 01709 872 140

STOKE DEPOT

Govan Road

Fenton Ind Est

Stoke-On-Trent

ST4 2RS

T: 01782 844840


AVRO CONNECT

Norwich: 01603 787999

www.norfolkrecovery.com

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SPACE CALL

SARA NEEDHAM

AT AVRO ON

01788 572850

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24

HOUR

24 hour Car & Commercial Recovery,

Repairs, Automatic Transmission

Rebuilders & Bosch Car Service Centre

Units 2 & 3, 24 Ballyrashane Road, Coleraine, BT52 3NL

www.burnsidegarage.org.uk info@burnsidegarage.co.uk

0844 414 2471 From ROI Tel: 048 7032 0723

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MOT STATION

• Exhausts • MOT’s • Servicing • Brakes • Clutches

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1 26/05/2025 09:48 Page 1

W O O D L A N D S R E S C U E L T D

ASHFORD, KENT

Providing vehicle recovery 24 hours,

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THE ASSOCIATION OF VEHICLE RECOVERY OPERATORS LTD

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T: 01788 572850 | www.avrouk.com

T: 01233 277101

E: rescue@woodlands-rescue-ltd.co.uk

www.woodlands-rescue-ltd.co.uk




Roll Call

PROUD TO REPRESENT OUR TRUSTED AVRO MEMBERS

Scotland 1

North West 4

South Wales 7

South East 11

ADJ Stevenson T/A Spean Bridge Garage

A & R Mechanical Eng. & Recovery

Andrews Garage Recovery Ltd

Auto Services Perth Ltd

Auto-Tec (Scotland) Ltd

Bellsburn Motor Services

Blair Atholl Garage

BIG Recovery & Transportation Ltd

C & C MOT & Service Centre

Chisholm’s Recovery Specialists Ltd

CVS Recovery

D C Diagnostics

Elite Recovery Falkirk Ltd

G-Sport Autocentres

JT Cormack

Karen Yuill Recovery Ltd

Kinnons Garage

LJC Haulage / Recovery

L M Recovery

Loch Shiel Garage 2010 Ltd

M8 Recovery

Morar Motors Ltd (Head Office)

Morar Motors Ltd (Kyle)

Reeds Roadside Recovery

Roadside Vehicle Services

R K Roadside Recovery Ltd

Ross’s Garage Ltd

Sheriffmill Motor Company

Station Garage

S.S Walker

T G Simpson (Ninewells Garage) Ltd

Westside Motors

Yes Recovery

Northern 2

Alan Sewell Ltd

Chambers Garage

Eden Garage

Furness Cars & Commercials Ltd (Head Office)

Furness Cars & Commercials Ltd (Milnthorpe)

Glendinning Bros

Lionheart Garage Ltd

Mids Auto Service

OJS Commercials Ltd

Quickfit Supercentre 24/7

Ron Perry A19 Testtune Ltd

North East 3

AHM Autos Recovery & Storage

BDV Recovery Ltd

Bell Truck Services

Commercial Services (Tadcaster) Ltd

Cosgroves Truck Services Ltd

Gallows Wood Recovery

GVS Recovery

Highway Recovery (Head Office)

Highway Recovery (Blyth, Worksop)

Lowes Breakdown & Recovery

Mennell Motors Ltd

Richford Motor Services Ltd (Barnsley)

Sparrow Recovery

Stoneywood Ltd

T C Salvage Ltd

Yorkshire Rescue Services

AAA Road Rescue

Auto Rescue (1990) Ltd

Bowers Threeways Garage Ltd

Bradburys Garage

Elite Services Ltd

FAM Commercials

First Point Commercials Ltd

Gwalia Garage

H K Motors

Hardy’s

Hough Green Garage

Howley Quay Motors

M6 Recovery Services Ltd

Macadams

Manchester Breakdown Services Ltd

Morfa Garage

Motor Move (UK) Ltd

Oates Recovery Ltd

Recovery North West (Head Office)

Recovery North West (Liverpool)

Recovery North West (St Helens)

Recovery North West (Deeside)

Toms Motors Chadderton Ltd

North Midlands 5

Anderson Commercials Ltd

Crouch Recovery (Head Office)

Crouch Recovery (Lutterworth)

Jon Beech Recovery Ltd

N T Shaw of Louth

Richford Motor Services Ltd (Head Office)

Richford Motor Services Ltd (Cossall)

Richford Motor Services Ltd (Derby)

Richford Motor Services Ltd (Huthwaite)

Richford Motor Services Ltd (Lincoln)

Richford Motor Services Ltd (Newark)

Richford Motor Services Ltd (Stoke on Trent)

Richford Motor Services Ltd (Tuxford)

Richford Motor Services Ltd (Wigston)

Shiptons Recovery Services Ltd

Tears Recovery (Head Office)

Tears Recovery (Spalding)

Unity Recovery Service (Head Office)

Unity Recovery Service (Adjacent A50/M1)

West Midlands 6

Auto Support Ltd

Autorite Recovery

Beeches Recovery

Bennnets Vehicle Services Limited

Burke Bros Recovery

Concorde Auto Recovery & Repairs

E A Downes Ltd

Fillongley Garage Ltd

GRS Recovery Warwickshire Ltd

Jacksons Recovery Limited

Oasis Rescue & Recovery Ltd

Rescue & Repair Automotive Services Ltd

R S Recovery Ltd

Rockhopper Rescue & Recovery Ltd

Rogers Rescue Ltd

Rowley Auto Services Ltd

Walls Truck Services Ltd

A1 Speedy Recoveries Ltd

Cambrian Car Care Ltd

CGCR Trading Ltd (T/A Caldicot Group)

Chris Spiteri & Son

G W Recovery & Transport

Krislyn Motors Ltd

Lamb Recovery Services Ltd

Lanes Recovery

Lynwood Garage

Millforge Garage Ltd




South Midlands 8

Able Assist Ltd

Bud Rescue & Recovery Ltd

Cotswold Vehicle Recovery Ltd (CVR)

Cowan Recovery Ltd T/A CMG

Elite Specialist Recovery Ltd

Essential Truck Assistance Ltd

Isis Rescue Ltd (Head Office)

Isis Rescue Ltd (Banbury)

R & S Recovery Services

Richford Motor Services (Dunstable)

Saunders Garage Ltd

Shaw Recovery

Eastern 9

A W & D Hammond

Admiral Recovery

AASP Group Ltd

Boyer’s Service Centre Ltd

Bus and Coach Repairs Ltd

D J Recovery Ipswich

Edan Recovery

Fairlight Vehicles Ltd

Heavyhaul (Chelmsford) Ltd

J S Holmes Ltd

GAA JD Ltd T/A J D Recovery & Transport

L J Transportation

Manchetts Recovery (Head Office)

Manchetts Recovery (Burwell)

Manchetts Recovery (Cambridge)

Norfolk Recovery Services Ltd

Tears Recovery

Greater London 10

Boleyn Recovery & Fleet Services Ltd

Boleyn Recovery & Fleet Services Ltd

CCK London Ltd

D & G Trucks

GMC Commercial Repairs Ltd

Impact Group Plc

Recoverymen Ltd

S B Recovery UK Ltd

365 Recovery Ltd

Amber Rescue Ltd

Bartletts Service Station

Brenhaul Commercial Services

Boarhunt Garage & Recovery Services

DRS Kent Ltd

D H Price Motors

D R Recovery Limited

Gatward (Maidstone) Ltd

Hobbs Recovery Service

Lee Hire Ltd

M4 Rescue & Recovery Ltd

Mendem Motors

Mick Gould Commercials Ltd

Midhurst Engineering

Neil Yates Recovery Ltd

Online MBT

On Point Recovery Limited

Owl Motor Services

Reliance Recovery Ltd

R S Recovery

Stag Lane Motors

Traceys Recovery Ltd

Thompsons Garage Ltd


Westbourne Motoring Assistance




Woodlands Rescue Ltd

South West 12

A J Autos Recovery Ltd

Ashley Wood Recovery

Avon Commercial Recovery

Bourne Transport Services

Cannon Commercials Ltd

Cockerham Commercials

C R Edwards

D J Recovery

Foundry Garage Ltd

Fourwinds Garage

GRS Recovery (Bournemouth)

Heywoods Recovery Ltd

Highfield Garage (Head Office)

Highfield Garage (Marsh Barton / Exeter)

JG Automotive Services Ltd

Slades Garage

TLC Garage Services ltd

Townsend Garage



Weston Recovery Services (Head Office)

Weston Recovery Services (Wellington)



1 Scotland

2 Northern

3 North East

4 North West

5 North Midlands

6 West Midlands

7 South Wales

8 South Midlands

9 Eastern

10 Greater London

11 South East

12 South West

14 Northern Ireland

15 Republic of Ireland

Northern Ireland 14

A1 Recovery Specialists

ABC Recovery

Agnew Recovery Services

Ballymena Recovery Services

BTS Recovery

Burnside Garage Ltd

CCRS Recovery Ltd

Crash Services Ltd

H & H Recovery

John Beers Ltd

Lakeland Recovery

McConville Recovery Specialists

SGK 24hr Recovery Ltd

Toal Truck Services

Two Trees Recovery Services

Watson Auto’s Services

Republic of Ireland 15

1

Ardfallen Motors (Local Garage Ltd)

Canning Motors Ltd

Corcoran Auto Bodyworks Ltd

Culkin Commercials

Derek Beahan Mobile Mech Servs

Gannon City Recovery

GT Recovery (Michael Ferguson T/A G T Recovery)

Hamills 24hr Recovery

Howard Recovery

J & S Motor Repair

James Foy Auto Service

Jer Coffey & Son Ltd T/A Glen Motors

Kylemore Service Station

McConnons Vehicle Recovery

MDS Commercial Centre (Europe) Ltd

Pat Keogh Recovery

Recovery Ireland

Sheehy Tow N Go Recovery Ltd

Young’s Recovery

AVRO Associate Members

Apex Networks

Boniface Engineering Ltd

Call Assist

Cougar Lubricants

ELP Engineering Ltd

Hadleigh Breakdown

LV General Insurance Group Ltd T/A LV=Britannia Rescue

Network Training Partnership Ltd

Professional Recovery Drivers Club

Prosol UK

Tower Supplies

RED (Recovery Equipment Direct) part of BHW Group Ltd

RecoveryVehicles.com

Roger Dyson Limited

Super Power Winch

15

14

AVRO Business Partners

7

12

EFT Finance.............................................. 01788 572850

SCG Together Ltd.................................... 01788 572850

Silvey Fleet............................................... 01788 572850

Howdens................................................... 01788 572850

APEX.......................................................... 01788 572850

Licence Check......................................... 01788 572850

4

6

2

3

5

8

11

10

9



AVRO FEATURE | HR MATTERS

Employment Rights

Bill - timeline update

Motor Industry

Legal Services

Motor Industry Legal

Services provides fully

comprehensive legal advice

and representation to UK

motor retailers for one

annual fee.

It is the only regulated

law firm in the UK which

specialises in motor law

and motor trade law. MILS

currently advises over

1,000 individual businesses

within the sector as well as

the Retail Motor Industry

Federation (RMI) and its

members.

The Government has finally

published a provisional timeline

for when their big employment law

changes will be enacted and come

into force. The general response

seems to be that although the changes are

not employer-friendly changes, the timeline

has pushed back some of the most significant

changes by quite some distance. This is good

news for employers as it will afford more time

to prepare but also it will allow for employers

to have their say in some of the consultations

the Government is launching. In these difficult

economic times for the Motor Industry, it also

gives employers a chance to potentially take

actions whilst the law stays as it is (with lower

thresholds on dismissals within the first 2

years of employment for example) before the

changes come into play.

The Government has said in their

Roadmap Document they are consulting with

stakeholders including businesses and “taking

a staggered approach to implementing several

of the most significant reforms. This is the right

thing to do for both employers and workers.

We are ensuring that there is a proper business

readiness period so that businesses and

organisations fully understand the details of

our reforms and can prepare long before they

come into force”.

Timeline Updates

Short-term changes

l There are two trade union related changes

which will be in force in the very near future

as soon as the ERB receives Royal Assent:

l Repealing most of the Trade Union Act 2016

and the Strikes (Minimum Services Levels)

Act 2023.

l Protections against dismissal for taking

industrial action.

2026 Changes

l April 2026:

l Collective redundancy protective award

– doubling the maximum period of the

protective award.

l 'Day 1' Paternity Leave and Unpaid Parental

Leave.

l Further whistleblowing protections.

l Fair Work Agency body established.

l Statutory Sick Pay – remove the Lower

Earnings Limit and waiting period.

l Simplifying trade union recognition process.

October 2026:

l The changes to ‘fire and rehire’ legislation

have been pushed back until October 2026


AVROUK.COM


AVRO FEATURE | HR MATTERS

(the Government is banning F&RH aside

from financial emergencies whereby an

employer does not gain an employee’s

consent to change their contract so they are

dismissed then re-engaged on the changed

terms).

This is a surprising change as it is one of the

Government’s flagship changes and there is

not really much reason to delay the changes,

consultation will not perceivably add much.

Some have mooted the delay is a sign of some

amendments, time will tell. Regardless, it is a

good delay for employers in our view as any

major reorganisations on contractual terms

now can be done in the next year and a half on

fire and rehire methodology.

l Employment Tribunal time limits changes to

be implemented.

l Introducing an obligation on employers not

to permit the harassment of their employees

by third parties.

2027 Changes

l The major news is that the huge change to

the 2-year unfair dismissal qualifying period

(being abolished) has been pushed back to

2027.

This is good news for employers

undoubtedly. The main reasons for the delay

are consultations on how the new statutory

probation period will work and that includes

what the lower threshold for dismissal will be

in said period. ACAS will also have to change

their well-known Code of Practice to fit the

new changes which is not an easy feat to

do overnight as they will also likely consult

with employee-centric groups and employer

stakeholders.

l Ending the exploitative use of zero hours

contracts and applying zero hours contracts

measures to agency workers. This delay is

to consult on the guaranteed hours element

of the new changes, which all stakeholders

involved have been complaining about as

they are unbelievably complicated at this

stage. This delay buys the Government

more time to figure out the mechanics of

implementing this change.

l Introducing a power to enable regulations

to specify steps that are to be regarded as

“reasonable”, to determine whether an

employer has taken all reasonable steps to

prevent sexual harassment. Again, this is

welcome guidance which actually employers

could do with arriving earlier. Nonetheless,

this is a positive step for employers

unusually for the ERB.

As always, this advice is general in nature

and will need to be tailored to any one

particular situation. As an RMI member you

have access to the RMI Legal advice line, as

well as a number of industry experts for your

assistance. Should you find yourself in the

situation above, contact us at any stage for

advice and assistance as appropriate.

THE GENERAL

RESPONSE SEEMS TO

BE THAT ALTHOUGH

THE CHANGES ARE NOT

EMPLOYER-FRIENDLY

CHANGES, THE

TIMELINE HAS PUSHED

BACK SOME OF THE

MOST SIGNIFICANT

CHANGES BY QUITE

SOME DISTANCE.

AVRO

MEMBERS

AVRO News & Magazine is putting members

and operators first with in-depth profiles.

If you would like to feature in a future issue of

the magazine then please contact James Baylis.

email: content@avrouk.co.uk or call James on 07977 481186



AVRO FEATURE | THE FINAL WORD

GEM welcomes the

prospect of changes

to driver eyesight

regulations

REFORM TO

THE CURRENT

REGIME IS ‘LONG

OVERDUE’, SAYS

GEM

IT’S VITAL TO

REDUCE THE

NUMBER OF

PEOPLE – OF

ALL AGES – WHO

DRIVE WITH

DEFECTIVE

VISION

ANY CHANGES

NEED TO BE

COMMUNICATED

PROPERLY TO

ROAD USERS

Road safety and breakdown

organisation GEM Motoring Assist

welcomes the prospect of changes

to current UK driver eyesight

regulations. GEM has long

campaigned for reforms to these rules, and

has described recent proposals for compulsory

eyesight tests as ‘long overdue’.

However, the road safety organisation

believes all drivers should be tested, not just

those aged 70 or over. GEM is also urging the

government to implement an ambitious, firstrate

communications strategy alongside any

legislative change.

GEM’s head of road safety James Luckhurst

said: “Regular eyesight tests would help protect

all road users by identifying visual impairments

that could compromise safe driving.

“For too long we have relied on self-reporting

of eyesight problems, and we welcome the

prospect of this welcome shift toward proactive

safety enforcement. Too many people – and not

just those aged 70 or over – are driving with

defective eyesight that has deteriorated to a

dangerous level.

“To reduce this risk, we want all licence

holders to undergo a professional eye

examination every two years as a matter of

individual responsibility and public safety.

“We believe that reform to driver eyesight

rules shows a commitment to making the

roads safer for everyone and has nothing to do

with unfairly targeting people because of their

age, or seeking to restrict anyone’s freedom.

Mandatory eye tests are essential for everyone’s

safety.

“Let’s also ensure that details of these

updates reach road users who don’t currently

see road safety as relevant to them and bring

the public on board to help change minds and

behaviours which ultimately save lives. We

need to ensure the communication mistakes

made at the introduction of the Highway

Code ‘hierarchy of road users’ in 2022 are not

repeated.”


AVROUK.COM



Benevolent

Fund

SUPPORTING THE WHOLE RECOVERY INDUSTRY SINCE 1989

£

£

£

Donations

always

welcome

l HELPING FELLOW RECOVERY

OPERATORS IN THEIR TIME

OF NEED

l NOT JUST AVAILABLE TO

AVRO MEMBERS

l FIRST AID FINANCIAL AND

TRAUMA ASSISTANCE

l BEREAVEMENT AND SERIOUS

ILLNESS COUNSELLING

l NO ONE SHOULD FEEL ALONE AT

A TIME OF NEED

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

Tel: 01676 540636 | eric@fillongleygarage.com


AVRO News & Magazine 68

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