https://www.sfs.co.uk/ Specialist Fleet Services Limited RSS News Feed With pictures L to R: Martin Johnson, HBBC operative; Tom Rose, SFS; Cllr Lynda Hodgkins, HBBC; Peter Battison, HBBC Waste Management Supervisor; with two vehicles from Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council’s new food waste collection fleetA fleet of nine dedicated food waste collection vehicles has arrived at Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council (HBBC), ready to carry out a new weekly food waste recycling collection service, which started this month.The vehicles, all Isuzu N75 7.5T trucks fitted with a Hillend Engineering MICRO L body and binlift, are being provided by the council’s long-standing fleet and workshop partner, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS), which has worked with the council for more than 20 years.Each truck proudly features its own name* on the front, following a council-run competition that invited residents to suggest names for the new fleet.The new service is being fully funded by the Government, following new regulations introducing mandatory food waste collections across the UK. All residents in the borough will receive a weekly food waste collection, taking place on the same day as their usual waste and recycling collections. Collected food waste will be converted into renewable energy, reducing carbon emissions and diverting waste from landfill.In March 2025, HBBC signed an eight-year agreement with SFS covering the supply and maintenance of the council’s fleet, as well as management of its workshop facility. As part of the contract, SFS delivered 22 vehicles in September 2025, including refuse collection vehicles, bulky waste trucks and sweepers.Lynda Hodgkins, Executive Member for Clean Neighbourhood Services, said: “We are excited to offer this new service to residents. Recycling food waste is a simple change that makes a big difference — reducing harmful emissions, generating green energy, and keeping bins cleaner and fresher. The service is free, easy to use, and will help make our borough cleaner and greener.”Caroline Roffey, Assistant Director, Street Scene Services, said: "I would like to thank everyone at Specialist Fleet Services for their work providing us with these food waste collection vehicles. These vehicles will soon hit the roads across the borough, with the winning names from our vehicle naming competition proudly printed on them."Bob Sweetland, Managing Director at SFS, said: “We are delighted to provide a fleet of dedicated food waste collection vehicles to support this new recycling service at Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council, helping to contribute to its carbon reduction targets.”SFS has been delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities for over 30 years. The company operates its own specialist short-term hire division, CTS Hire, and a network of 15 workshops across the UK — nine of which are based at council depots — with plans for continued expansion.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601 or  email info@sfs.co.uk*The winning vehicle names: Lewis Scrapaldi – Natalie from Twycross; Scrapunzel – Amber from Hinckley; Leftovers Laurie – Lucie from Twycross; Pasta La Vista Baby – Andy from Barlestone; Bread Pitt – Andy from Hinckley; Scrappy Doo – Mihaela from Hinckley; Ada Lovewaste – Leiah from Hinckley; Peels on Wheels – Paul from Hinckley; Toast Busters – Jamie from Markfield and Andy from Barlestone  https://www.sfs.co.uk/Bread_Pitt_Peels_on_Wheels_friends_ready_to_collect_food_waste_in_Hinckley_and_Bosworth--post--167.html 167 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/HBBC%20Food%20Waste%20Vans%202026-062.jpg 2026-03-02 00:00:00 1 Council fleet and workshop partner Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) continues to expand its nationwide network of workshops with the opening of a new depot in Exeter. The new facility, which will support SFS? customers in the South West, is creating new jobs in the area and recruitment for HGV Technicians is underway.The new 3000 sq. ft workshop comprises 4 vehicle bays and parts storage.  SFS has invested £100k in workshop equipment at the site, which will include vehicle lifts for heavy and lightweight commercial vehicles.Two bays are designated for working primarily on HGVs and the other for LCVs. Both will be used to support SFS customers? fleets in the South West, including Mid Devon District Council, Somerset Council and Exeter City Council. The facility will also support hire vehicles from SFS? vehicle rental division CTS Hire. Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: ?The new Exeter depot is part of a wider strategy to set up and run our own workshops manned by our own fully trained technicians. This means we can guarantee a consistently high standard of service delivery to maintain our customers? fleets and our own rental fleet.?SFS has an extensive track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities and currently operates a network of 13 workshops across the UK, 9 of which are based at council depots. The company operates its own specialist vehicle hire division, CTS Hire, for the provision of short to medium term municipal vehicles.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk; visit www.sfs.co.uk  https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_continues_workshop_expansion_with_new_Exeter_dep--post--166.html 166 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/SFS%20Exeter%20depot%20with%20Exeter%20RCV%2C%20SFS%20van%20and%20sweeper%20etc.jpg 2025-10-24 00:00:00 1 With picture: A fleet of electric Fiat 500s used to facilitate meals on wheels for EEBCEpsom & Ewell Borough Council (EEBC) has announced the award of a new 10-year contract for the supply and maintenance of a new fleet of vehicles to its long-standing fleet and workshop partner, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS), extending the partnership to an impressive 32 years. SFS, which has a reputation for retaining its customers, started working with the council in 2005. This latest contract involves the delivery of approximately 75 replacement vehicles with the first vehicles arriving in June 2027.  The new fleet includes 13 x 26T Refuse Collection Vehicles (RCVs), and a range of other vehicles to carry out services such as street cleansing and grounds maintenance. SFS will also continue to manage the council’s workshop, which it extended and modernised in 2021, and the maintenance of vehicles.Cllr Liz Frost, Chair of Environment & Safe Communities Committee, Epsom & Ewell Borough Council said: “We are delighted to continue the council’s partnership with SFS. Over the past 20 years they have delivered a consistently high level of service and offer excellent value for money. Their expertise in sourcing the right vehicle technology, managing the maintenance of vehicles and our workshop facility is excellent and we have no reason to look elsewhere. We work to a tight budget and there is no room for waste. SFS runs a tight ship, and the team are reliable, responsive and easy to deal with.”The new fleet will facilitate the council’s weekly waste and recycling collection service, which includes co-mingled dry recycling, glass, food waste and general refuse.  The Simply Weekly Recycling service was introduced in 2017 and led to an increase in recycling rates in the Borough.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: “This is fantastic news and we are thrilled to be retained for a 3rd consecutive contract term. 32 years is a significant milestone and we are very proud of our work with Epsom & Ewell Borough Council. This contract further reinforces our reputation as a steadfast and reliable local authority fleet and workshop partner. We work hard to understand our customers’ operations in depth and future proof them for the longer term.”SFS has an extensive track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities and currently operates a network of 15 workshops across the UK, 9 of which are based at council depots. The company operates its own specialist vehicle hire division, CTS Hire, for the provision of short to medium term municipal vehicles.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601 or email info@sfs.co.uk.  https://www.sfs.co.uk/Epsom_Ewell_partnership_with_SFS_heading_for_32_years--post--165.html 165 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/EV2.jpg 2025-09-30 00:00:00 1 This month marks the arrival of Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council?s (HBBC) brand-new fleet, provided by the council?s long-standing fleet partner Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS).  Seventeen bright green twenty-six tonne refuse collection vehicles have entered service alongside two new sweepers and three bulky waste trucks.The remaining fleet, comprising 9 specialist food waste collection vehicles will be in place by February 2026 ready for the commencement of the council?s new household waste service launching next Spring. Residents will have separate collections for garden waste, recycling, general waste and food waste. The food waste will be used to generate green energy to power homes and businesses and reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions.In March this year HBBC signed an 8-year agreement with SFS involving the supply and maintenance of the council?s fleet and the management of its workshop facility. The contract, which marks the 20th anniversary of the partnership to date and takes it beyond to 2033, was awarded through the Halton Housing National Vehicle Contract Hire and Flexi-Hire Framework.Caroline Roffey, Assistant Director, Street Scene Services: ?SFS have proved to be a reliable and trustworthy supplier of fleet to HBBC, and we are delighted to be continuing our long and successful partnership. SFS brings a wealth of expertise and experience from across all their contracts, which is of enormous benefit when selecting and operating our fleet?Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: ?We are proud to have been retained by Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council for over two decades, nearly three by the end of this contract term. We remain committed to investing in HBBC?s fleet operations to ensure the council can continue to deliver the highest standards of service to residents.? Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council?s Executive Member for Neighbourhood Services, Councillor Lynda Hodgkins:"I am pleased to welcome this new contract with Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS). This partnership will enhance our waste management services, providing efficient and reliable services to our residents. What?s more, the new food waste collection will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and generate green energy, reflecting our commitment to sustainability and improving the quality of life for all our residents. We will now be running all of our HGV fleet on vegetable oil to reduce our vehicle carbon emissions by up to 90%?.The council is running a *competition, which closes at midnight on 30 September giving residents the chance to name the council?s new food waste trucks. Nine winning names will be selected by a panel led by the Mayor of Hinckley and Bosworth and each one will feature on the front of one of the new trucks. Added Cllr Hodgkins: ?If you haven?t already entered our competition to name one of the new food trucks then there?s still time, there have been some really imaginative entries so far and I look forward to seeing the new trucks out and about next year.?SFS has been delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities for over thirty years. It operates its own specialist short term hire division, CTS Hire and has a network of 15 workshops across the UK (9 based at council depots), which it plans to continue expanding.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601 or email info@sfs.co.ukENDS. https://www.sfs.co.uk/Hinckley_Bosworth_Borough_Council_Celebrates_The_Arrival_of_A_New_Fleet--post--164.html 164 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/HBBC%20RCV%202025-103a%20(Medium).jpg 2025-09-23 00:00:00 1 Teignbridge District Council has made a significant step towards net zero emissions and improving its sustainability with the arrival of a new fleet of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) provided by its fleet and workshop partner Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS).The EV fleet comprises a combination of Ford E-Transit tippers and Vauxhall Vivaro E-Prime vans and will reduce the council’s carbon emissions by 58 tonnes per annum.The vehicles are part of the council’s ongoing contract hire agreement with SFS involving the supply of 56 vehicles including Refuse Collection Vehicles, kerbside recycling vehicles, vans and a sweeper for street cleansing. Cllr Peter Williams, Executive Member for Environmental Services, said:“Our waste, recycling, parking, and enforcement teams are proud to lead by example by adopting these new vehicles. Together, we can drive towards a greener, more sustainable future for Teignbridge.”Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: “This new fleet is helping Teignbridge District Council to achieve climate action targets and enhance its sustainability. Over the past 20 years we have worked closely with the council to help improve the efficiency of its fleet operations and we are pleased to be able to include the latest alternative fuel technology.”SFS has an extensive track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities and currently operates a network of 13 workshops across the UK, 9 of which are based at council depots. The company operates its own specialist vehicle hire division, CTS Hire, for the provision of short to medium term municipal vehicles.ENDS. https://www.sfs.co.uk/Teignbridge_reduces_carbon_emissions_with_electric_fleet_from_SFS--post--163.html 163 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/Teignbridge%20electric%20van%20.JPG 2025-09-22 00:00:00 1 Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) will be sharing 30+ yrs of local authority knowledge and expertise with delegates at the forthcoming Municipal Fleet & Plant Procurement Event (MFPEE) hosted by JCB & The Procurement Partnership Limited (TPPL) on 16 July - internal stand 10 and external stand 13.Ranked the number one supplier under several TPPL frameworks and LOTS SFS is a popular, long-standing fleet partner for many councils in the UK and its team of technical experts will be on hand to provide visitors with information on a range of flexible contract hire, fleet management, vehicle maintenance and workshop outsourcing solutions. The company will also be showcasing a food waste collection vehicle from its vehicle rental division, CTS Hire.The event will feature a conference, exhibition, and live demonstrations at JCB World HQ and JCB Kevin Quarry, offering local authority fleet and plant operators a valuable opportunity to explore how innovative procurement can help them achieve operational sustainability.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS Ltd:“We are delighted to support this exclusive event. It’s a great opportunity to hear about the challenges delegates are facing and discuss how our solutions can safeguard, improve and future proof their fleet and workshop operations.”Ben Rawding, General Manager for Government and Municipalities, JCB: “JCB is proud to support the Municipal Fleet & Plant Procurement Event in conjunction with TPPL – an invaluable platform where collaboration meets innovation.“As a British manufacturer with deep roots in public sector partnerships, we see this event as an opportunity to showcase our commitment to helping local authorities and government bodies meet their operational and sustainability goals with bespoke, cutting-edge solutions.”Fleet Vision International is supporting and promoting the event.James Brennan, MD of the Procurement Partnership, said: “We are delighted to work with JCB and Fleet Vision International to launch the inaugural Municipal Fleet & Plant Procurement Event, tailored for TPPL public-sector customers. Leading suppliers will be on hand to discuss and demonstrate the products and services that can help local authorities on their decarbonisation journey, whilst keynote speakers will share the latest insights into the current fleet, plant, and procurement initiatives available to help local authorities make their fleets more sustainable. Delegates will also see JCB’s headquarters and enjoy the JCB Experience Museum tour to complete a memorable experience.”SFS has been delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities for over thirty years and currently operates a network of 15 workshops across the UK, 9 of which are based at council depots. In January, the company opened a new depot in Wellington, Somerset to support customers in the area and has further plans to expand it workshop network in 2025. ENDS. https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_to_share_public_sector_expertise_at_Municipal_Fleet_Plant_Procurement_Event--post--162.html 162 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/MFPPE-Social-Exhibiting-FNL.jpg 2025-06-13 00:00:00 1 SFS has just won its latest contract with Hyndburn Borough Council via a *YPO Framework for the provision of 9 new Refuse Collection Vehicles as the authority prepares for the introduction of mandatory food waste collections from March 2026.SFS was awarded the contract after being marked the best supplier overall based on a combination of price and quality. This is the fifth consecutive contract to be awarded to SFS by Hyndburn Borough Council, which has a target to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2030.Michael Ainsworth, Transport Manager, Hyndburn Borough Council:“We are delighted to continue our longstanding relationship with SFS. They have been a steadfast fleet partner for the past 15 years and this contract will take us to 23 years.  We are confident that we are in safe hands with SFS. The support they provide is excellent and they are easy to work with.”The new vehicles are Dennis Eagle Duos to enable the council to utilise the vehicles for refuse, recycling and food waste collections. Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS commented: “It is fantastic news that we have been chosen again to continue as fleet partners to Hyndburn Borough Council. We remain committed to helping the council future proof its fleet operations and improve its environmental sustainability.”SFS has been delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities for over thirty years and currently operates a network of 15 workshops across the UK, 9 of which are based at council depots. In January, the company opened a new depot in Wellington, Somerset to support customers in the area and to provide a maintenance hub for rental vehicles from its own specialist short term hire division, CTS Hire.  SFS has further plans to expand it workshop network in 2025. ENDS. https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_Hyndburn_Borough_Council_extend_partnership_to_23_yrs_with_new_contract--post--161.html 161 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Hyndburn%20refuse%20vehicles.jpg 2025-06-11 00:00:00 1 Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) is celebrating its 20th year as fleet and workshop partner to Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council (HBBC) with a new long-term contract.The 8-year agreement commences on 1 September 2025 and involves the provision of a replacement fleet with SFS continuing as the incumbent provider managing and maintaining the council?s fleet and workshop facility. The contract was awarded through the Halton Housing National Vehicle Contract Hire and Flexi-Hire Framework.The new fleet, which will be delivered by February 2026, comprises 30 waste collection and street cleansing vehicles, including those needed for the Council?s new food waste collection service. Caroline Roffey, Head of Street Scene Services, HBBC, said: ?We are delighted to have secured SFS as our fleet partner through to 2033.  Over the next few years, we are facing notable challenges including food waste collection roll-out, a desire to decarbonise our fleet and Local Government Reform.  We know that in SFS we have a supplier who will support us every step of the way and adapt with us when required.  We heeded their excellent advice to order our food waste vehicles immediately on award and are confident that the new fleet will be in place when we need it next Spring?.SFS first started working with HBBC in 2005 when it took over the running of the council?s workshop, invested in new equipment and infrastructure, and began supplying the authority with vehicles.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: ?This is a significant milestone in our relationship with Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council and a great example of the long-term relationships we strive to develop with our customers. ?Dramatic increases in vehicle costs, over 50% in the past 5 years in some cases, combined with ever tighter budgets means that we must be flexible, innovative and meticulous in our approach. We went through every line of the vehicle specification in detail, offering solutions that would enable the council to achieve its requirements, within budget. I am proud of the work the SFS team has done in helping to ensure the council has a robust and future proofed fleet operation. We will continue to invest in HBBC and work in partnership to deliver an efficient and effective fleet operation.?SFS has been delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities for over thirty years and currently operates a network of 14 workshops across the UK, 9 of which are based at council depots. In January, the company opened a new depot in Wellington, Somerset to support customers in the area and to provide a maintenance hub for rental vehicles from its own specialist short term hire division, CTS Hire.  SFS has further plans to expand it workshop network in 2025. For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601 or email info@sfs.co.uk.ENDS. https://www.sfs.co.uk/Hinckley_Bosworth_Borough_Council_continues_20year_partnership_with_SFS--post--159.html 159 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/RCV%20Cab%20Only%20Line%20Up%20HBBC.jpg 2025-03-26 00:00:00 To celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2025 (10-16 Feb) contract hire, workshop provider and fleet management company Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) is showcasing some of its talented apprentices to highlight the benefits of apprenticeships and demonstrate the ?skills for life? gained by those on apprenticeship schemes.SFS has been a passionate supporter of Apprenticeship Schemes for over 20 years and currently has apprentices working across its 14 depots located across the UK. Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd: ?We want to celebrate our apprentices, their achievements and the skills they have developed because of the specialist training and mentoring our teams have provided.  Just as we like to develop long lasting relationships with our customers, we also like to invest in our staff for the long term, providing opportunities for them to learn and grow with us. An apprenticeship is a great way to support someone who is starting out their chosen career.?James Donald, 34 is an HGV Technician Level 3 apprentice at SFS? depot in Boston, Lincolnshire. He started working for SFS 6 months ago when he took the plunge to start a new career and spends one week every two months at college learning theory to support the practical side of the apprenticeship. James commented: ?I had previously worked in farming, in particular driving and maintaining tractors and I really enjoyed it. When I saw the advert to work for SFS working on HGVs I was immediately interested and I?m so happy I got the job! ?Every day is different, and they are a good team of people. I find the work interesting and challenging, and my aim is to progress to become a Master Technician. I?ve never been interested in the office side of things.?Dominic Snape, Workshop Controller, SFS Boston depot: ?James has fitted in brilliantly, he?s a quick learner and very enthusiastic. He brings a youthful energy to the team and a passion for the technical/diagnostic side of the job.?Over in Kettering, near Northampton, Tristan Sandeman, 20, has nearly completed the first year of his 3-year HGV Technician apprenticeship. Tristan said: ?I?ve always been into cars, and I have a dirt bike, so I was attracted to the idea of being a technician. I work mainly on refuse vehicles. They?re a lot bigger than you think and very interesting to work on with hydraulics and complex mechanics. They don?t smell as bad as I thought they would either; they are washed well!?I get on really well with the team and they give me a lot of support.?Jake Kightley, Workshop Controller, SFS Kettering depot is Tristan?s line manager:?Tristan has integrated with the team well since he started with us. He is extremely keen to learn and is never afraid to get stuck in regardless of what the task may be. Although his time with us has been brief he is already proving to be a real asset to SFS.?SFS has an extensive track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities and currently operates a network of 14 workshops across the UK, 9 of which are based at council depots. The company operates its own specialist vehicle hire division, CTS Hire, for the provision of short to medium term municipal vehicles.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk; visit www.sfs.co.uk ENDS. https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_Supports_Skills_for_Life_Theme_Of_National_Apprenticeship_Week_2025--post--158.html 158 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Untitled%20(Photo%20Collage).png 2025-02-11 00:00:00 1 With pictures: SFS new depot in Wellington, SomersetLocal authority fleet and workshop partner Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) has expanded its nationwide network of workshops with the opening of a new South West depot in Wellington, Somerset. The new facility will create 10 new jobs in the area and recruitment is underway.The new depot comprises two 3,400 sq. ft workshops, which house 7 vehicle bays plus office accommodation, parts storage, a meeting room and hot desk space.  SFS has invested £400k in workshop equipment at the site, which will include vehicle lifts for heavy and lightweight commercial vehicles, a brake tester and vehicle wash bay.One workshop is designated for working primarily on HGVs and the other for LCVs. Both will be used to support SFS customers? fleets in the South West, including Mid Devon District Council, Somerset Council and Exeter City Council. The facility will also support hire vehicles from SFS? vehicle rental division CTS Hire.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: ?This new depot is part of a wider strategy to expand our network, enhancing our service and maintenance capabilities to support customers? fleets and our own rental fleet. We are also delighted to be able to create new employment opportunities in the area.?SFS has an extensive track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities and currently operates a network of 13 workshops across the UK, 9 of which are based at council depots. The company operates its own specialist vehicle hire division, CTS Hire, for the provision of short to medium term municipal vehicles.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_expands_workshop_network_with_new_South_West_depot--post--157.html 157 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/IMG_1041.jpg 2025-01-17 00:00:00 1 Teignbridge District Council has announced the winners of its social media competition inviting residents to provide names for a new fleet of recycling vehicles. Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS), the council’s fleet and workshop partner for over 20 years, delivered 21x brand new Romaquip Kerbsort recycling vehicles as part of a 56-vehicle replacement programme for the council, which commenced in April this year.Over 300 entries from adults and children were received and the winning names include *Big Dumpy, Binderella, Dusbin Hoffman, Taylorry Swift and Lamborgreenie. On Saturday 26 October 2024 a selection of winners joined members of the waste and recycling team at the recycling depot in Newton Abbot to be presented with certificates and officially name their vehicle. Prizes and stickers for the competition were sponsored by Romaquip and SFSWinners got the chance to learn more about how their named vehicles will improve the council’s recycling service.Where possible, the names for the lorries have been chosen for routes close to where the winner’s live, so winners will be able to see the vehicle they named out and about working.Cllr Peter Williams, Executive Member for Recycling, Household Waste & Environmental Health said, “We had a great response to the competition to name our new fleet of vehicles.  There were so many fun and creative names, from children and adults across Teignbridge, it was hard for the panel to decide.“We’re very pleased with the names chosen as they give the new fleet a distinct identity, and we can’t wait to see them around Teignbridge providing their services.“We know most of our residents already recycle lots of their waste, but we know there is still more many can do. The new vehicles will help us provide a more efficient recycling collection service and hopefully encourage people to recycle more, more often.”Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: “We have been working with Teignbridge District Council since 2002 and we are delighted to provide this new fleet of recycling vehicles as well as support the naming competition.”The new vehicles have three different body configurations to achieve the balance between access and maximizing storage space for collected materials. Crews sort the waste into different compartments as they go, minimising the need for further sorting and maximising the recyclability of the materials collected. The new trucks have improved compaction for cardboard and space for food waste meaning they can collect from more households before needing to be emptied.SFS celebrated its 30-year anniversary in 2023 and has an extensive track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities across the UK. The company runs a nationwide network of workshops and operates its own specialist vehicle hire division, CTS Hire, for the provision of short to medium term municipal vehicles.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601 or email info@sfs.co.uk.*The names for the 21 new vehicles are:Big DumpyBinderellaBruce SpringcleanDustbin HoffmanRecyclesaurus RexTaylorry SwiftOllie WatbinsTeign-Age DirtbagLamborgreenieLord of the BinsThe Flying DustmanBindiana JonesBinbo BagginsBinny McBin FaceChitty Chitty Bin BinTin Tin Trash GordonBig Bin, Little Bin, Cardboard BoxObi-Wan Binobi    Steve McClean          Hector the CollectorENDS. https://www.sfs.co.uk/Bruce_Springclean_and_Bindiana_Jones_improve_recycling_in_Teignbridge--post--156.html 156 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/20241026_102604.jpg 2024-11-12 00:00:00 1 Caption: Dave Ward Interim Managing Director Terra Verde Services, EFDC Cllr Ray Balcombe, Specialist Fleet Services Regional Operations Manager Jeff Bennett and Nicola Case Regional Sales Manager Dennis Eagle alongside one of the new fleet of RCVsMore than 30 refuse vehicles, and over 20 support vehicles have arrived at North Weald airfield ready to commence Epping Forest District Council’s (EFDC) new waste and recycling collection service from 4 November 2024 provided by its wholly owned company, Terra Verde Services Ltd (TVS).Earlier this year the council announced the plan to create its own wholly owned *Teckal company to deliver the waste and recycling service rather than go back out to contract once the existing contract with Biffa ended.In May this year SFS was awarded an 8-year contract by EFDC for the supply and maintenance of a new waste & recycling fleet. The new vehicles have been arriving at the depot throughout October ahead of the start date to ensure a smooth transition.Crews have been attending special induction days run by TVS at the new environmental operations hub at North Weald Airfield where they have been able to familiarise themselves with the new vehicles, safety technology and bin lifting equipment, as well as undertake banksman training.Dave Ward, Interim Managing Director, Terra Verde Services Ltd (TVS) said:“TVS is looking forward to commencing the delivery of waste, recycling and street services for Epping Forest District Council and its residents. TVS is excited to be working with the vehicle fleet that has been supplied by SFS Ltd. The quality of the fleet sourced from Dennis-Eagle, Scarab and Hako meet the highest standards demanded by operators across the waste and resources industry.”Over 100 existing members of staff have been TUPE transferred across to TVS to continue in their roles operating the vehicles. SFS has recruited additional staff to carry out fleet management and maintenance.  No rubbish or waste will be brought or stored on the airfield. The depot will provide storage, maintenance and fuelling for the new fleet, which can run on diesel or a carbon neutral alternative Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO).The new 52-vehicle fleet comprises 30x 26t refuse trucks provided by Dennis Eagle plus additional support vehicles including sweepers, tippers, and vans. SFS will have responsibility for the maintenance of the fleet, which will take place at the council’s new environmental operations hub at North Weald Airfield.Councillor Ray Balcombe, Contracts Portfolio Holder for Epping Forest District Council is delighted to welcome SFS and its fleet of Dennis Eagle vehicles to Epping Forest. He said: “There is nothing more important among the services Epping Forest District Council provides to our residents than refuse and recycling.The most important part of our new waste and recycling service is our people. But support is critical to success, and we also need the best tools for the job. That is why I am so pleased to welcome SFS as key partners with TVS in the delivery and maintenance of our brand-new fleet. Together with Dennis Eagle, we are confident we are delivering the tools our people need, and the service our residents demand.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said:“We are delighted to have been able to have the entire fleet in place well in advance of the contract start date. All staff members are fully inducted, any TUPE transfers have been completed as required and the workshop is fully equipped and ready to go.  This will help to ensure that the new waste and recycling collection service has a smooth roll out. We are looking forward to maintaining the fleet to a high standard and to delivering an efficient fleet operation to Epping Forest District Council and TVS.”Dennis Eagle Sales and Marketing Director Richard Taylor commented:“It has been a pleasure to collaborate with SFS once more as they embark on their new contract with EFDC, providing this new fleet of Dennis Eagle vehicles. This partnership further enhances our long-standing relationship with SFS, which began in the early 1990s. Our dedicated training team has been on hand to support this seamless delivery, facilitating our comprehensive and robust “Train the trainer” courses to allow the teams to gain confidence in their new fleet and to enable them to get the job done once they are mobilised.”SFS celebrated its 30-year anniversary in 2023 and has an extensive track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities across the UK. The company runs a nationwide network of workshops and operates its own specialist vehicle hire division, CTS Hire, for the provision of short to medium term municipal vehicles.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601 or email info@sfs.co.uk.ENDS.                                                                          https://www.sfs.co.uk/Epping_Forest_commences_inhouse_waste_recycling_collection_service--post--155.html 155 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/SFS%2C%20Terra%20Verde%20Services%20EFDC-7L7A1237.jpg 2024-11-05 00:00:00 1 A fleet of approximately 100 vehicles that facilitate North Northamptonshire Council?s Housing services are now being maintained by Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) at its depot in Kettering.The 3-year contract commenced at the beginning of August and SFS has already invested in new equipment for the workshop including a 4.5t ramp, additional tooling and diagnostic equipment. In addition, two technicians have carried out Level 3 EV vehicle training to accommodate the hybrid and electric vehicles that form part of the fleet.SFS is a long-term vehicle partner to North Northamptonshire Council, the origins of which go back over twenty years. In 2013 the then Kettering Borough Council awarded SFS with a fleet supply and maintenance contract that required the expansion of local workshop facilities.  Having made further investment in equipment and staffing this summer, these resources will now be deployed to maintain the vehicles relating to this latest contract.Cllr Matt Binley, North Northamptonshire Council?s Executive Member for Highways, Travel and Assets, said: ?Making sure we have vehicles that are fit for purpose and well maintained is vital to ensure that we are able to deliver the services that residents expect and our officers are able to reach all areas of North Northamptonshire to help residents. ?It is also important that we look to the future and it?s great that SFS are now able to support our growing number of hybrid and electric vehicles too.?Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: ?We are delighted to be expanding our service provision with North Northamptonshire Council to include maintenance of this additional fleet. We will continue to invest in the team, the depot and the fleet to enhance the delivery of essential council services.?As the only independent contract hire company that is owned by a publicly quoted bank, we are in a strong position financially and this gives us the ability to invest in our customers? vehicles and workshop facilities without any need for external borrowing.?Owned by Paragon Banking Group SFS, which celebrated its 30-year anniversary in 2023, has a unique financial stability and has earned a reputation as a reliable and steadfast partner for local authorities. The company runs a nationwide network of workshops and operates its own specialist vehicle hire division, CTS Hire, for the provision of short to medium term municipal vehicles.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601or email info@sfs.co.uk https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_wins_new_contract_for_fleet_maintenance_in_North_Northamptonshire--post--154.html 154 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/IMG_2148.jpg 2024-10-21 00:00:00 1 Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) has appointed Shamek Kowalczyk as its Head of Hire.A familiar face in the waste management industry, Shamek has worked in a variety of fleet management and procurement roles for over 20 years. During his time with Urbaser Ltd he ran municipal collections for Waltham Forest. He has also operated commercial waste collections for private operators across London and was a supervisor at a Materials Recovery Facility.At SFS Shamek will be focusing on developing and growing CTS Hire as a leader in municipal vehicle rental.Shamek said: ?I?m really pleased to be part of SFS and CTS Hire. I have worked with both companies over the years, and I have a lot of respect for Bob and his team. They have an excellent reputation and I want to make sure that everyone knows how good they are!Shamek will be dividing his time between the CTS Hire depots in Berkeley and Brackley as well as visiting customers.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: ?Shamek is well known in the industry and has a great deal of knowledge and experience that we can benefit from. He is highly motivated and hard-working and a great fit for our team.SFS celebrated its 30-year anniversary in 2023 and has an extensive track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities across the UK. The company runs a nationwide network of workshops and operates its own specialist vehicle hire division, CTS Hire, for the provision of short to medium term municipal vehicles.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk.ENDS.                                       https://www.sfs.co.uk/Introducing_our_new_Head_of_Hire--post--153.html 153 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/IMG_0527.jpg 2024-09-03 00:00:00 1 Picture caption: Cllr Matt Binley, Executive Member for Highways, Travel and Assets, and Jason Smithers, Leader of the Council, with the new Dennis Eagle eCollect 27t electric RCV at North Northants depotA new all electric 27t refuse vehicle is now collecting waste and recycling from North Northamptonshire residents. The vehicle is much quieter than a traditional refuse trucks and has zero local emissions. It will reduce the council?s carbon footprint, saving 60,000 litres of diesel and £75,000 over the course of its lifetime.The vehicle has been provided on contract hire by North Northamptonshire Council?s vehicle partner Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) as part of a significant vehicle replacement programme awarded in 2022.Cllr Matt Binley, North Northamptonshire Council?s Executive Member for Highways, Travel and Assets, said: ?The arrival of this new electric vehicle is a step towards a cleaner and quieter waste fleet and will help us become carbon neutral by 2030. Our plans to be greener are a team effort and we are thankful to the team at SFS for helping us to access the very latest in electric vehicle technology. Every small change we make will help make a big difference in the long term and, on this occasion residents, shouldn?t notice much change, except from a quieter vehicle doing the rounds.?Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: ?We are delighted to be helping North Northamptonshire Council achieve its environmental goals by reducing the carbon footprint of its fleet and introducing alternative fuel technologies. At the same time, we remain committed to delivering cost savings and improving operational efficiency wherever possible."Richard Taylor, Sales and Marketing Director, Dennis Eagle: ?We have had the pleasure of working with Specialist Fleet Services since the early 90s and since then they have built a great reputation as a leading contract hire and fleet management company in the UK. The eCollect is the only fully integrated OEM electric RCV on the market and is ideal for working in Low Emission Zones, Clean Air Zones, and will be an asset to North Northamptonshire Council.?SFS celebrated its 30-year anniversary in 2023 and has an extensive track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities across the UK. Prior to the current contract with North Northants Council, SFS was fleet provider to Kettering Borough Council for over 17 years, before it became part of the unitary authority. The company runs a nationwide network of workshops and operates its own specialist vehicle hire division, CTS Hire, for the provision of short to medium term municipal vehicles.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk; visit www.sfs.co.ukENDS                                        https://www.sfs.co.uk/New_electric_refuse_vehicle_starts_to_collect_waste_for_North_Northants_Council--post--152.html 152 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/New%20EV%20vehicle.jpg 2024-08-06 00:00:00 1 The Procurement Partnership Ltd?s (TPPL) first dedicated Food Waste Vehicle Supplier event held in Northampton last month, has received insightful feedback from members and exhibitors.The event clearly tapped into the increasingly important issue of food waste collections for councils and the potential impact on fleet operations, when new *government legislation comes into effect in 2026.Over 65 people representing 33 local authorities attended the event, and they were joined by a multitude of suppliers and vehicle manufacturers including Dennis Eagle, Terberg, Hillend, Faun Zoeller, NTM, Macpac, Trest, Isuzu Trucks and Addex. The day included presentations by TPPL on its framework solutions and food waste vehicle tenders. A range of food waste collection vehicles were on display, including one of SFS?s rental division CTS Hire?s new food waste vehicles.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said:?We would like to thank TPPL for hosting this event. It was a very productive day and a great opportunity to talk to members about their challenges and concerns.??We found the overriding message from the day was that councils are finding it extremely difficult to determine the optimal approach to implementing the forthcoming necessary changes. There is no ?one size fits all? and the consensus was that guidance and budgets provided by DEFRA thus far are inadequate.?Through our flexible contract hire approach we can support them with both transitional and long-term solutions, and crucially remove the financial risk from their projects.  Clients can rapidly engage our services in a compliant manner through established TPPL contract hire and short-term hire frameworks,?Pete Vickers, Business Development Manager ? South East, TPPL:?This new legislation will have a significant impact on local authority fleet operations.  We had unprecedented interest, and the event was full. Our members said it was very informative and we?ve had great feedback from suppliers. They all appreciated a day focused on these specific vehicles.?SFS celebrated its 30-year anniversary in 2023 and has an extensive track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities across the UK.Lynne Spencer, Fleet Manager, Place and Economy, North Northants Council, another SFS customer said: ?The event was most useful, the presentation given by The Procurement Partnership was informative and it gave us an opportunity to view what is available on the market and discuss options direct with the suppliers.?Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS concluded: ?Given the feedback from the event and the intensity of discussions, we are expecting this subject to be a major focus in the coming months. We are already making sure our existing customers are prepared for the changes and we are looking forward to providing solutions for new customers.?Owned by Paragon Banking Group SFS has a unique financial stability that is the envy of the marketplace. Backed by a publicly quoted bank worth more than £1.5 billion, councils partnering with SFS, have additional reassurance and certainty that their fleets and workshop facilities are in safe hands.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601 or email info@sfs.co.ukENDS.               https://www.sfs.co.uk/Insightful_feedback_from_TPPL_food_waste_vehicle_event--post--151.html 151 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/8c36dde8-3362-4ca4-9f7a-273bc46c6bee.jpg 2024-07-25 00:00:00 1 CTS Hire, a division of Northampton based contract hire and fleet management company Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS), is showcasing a vehicle from its new food waste hire fleet at an event hosted by The Procurement Partnership Ltd (TPPL) in Northampton on Wednesday 19 June.The TPPL Food Waste Vehicle Supplier Engagement Day is being held at Franklin?s Gardens, the home of newly crowned Premiership Rugby Union Champions Northampton Saints.  With the ground within sight of the SFS Head Office, the event has been organised to bring together suppliers and members prior to the introduction of new government legislation, which is due to come into effect in 2026 and requires all households to separate food waste from general waste. As a result, local authorities will have to purchase, or hire, specialist food waste collection vehicles.Pete Vickers, Business Development Manager ? South East, TPPL:?This new legislation will have a significant impact on local authority fleet operations.  We?ve had unprecedented interest from our members and the event is full.  We hope that by bringing together all the suppliers in one location we can help to save our members time, as they can have meetings and demonstrations with all the suppliers individually.?Exhibitors attending the event include Faun Zoeller, Terberg Matec, Dennis Eagle, Hillend Engineering, Trest, Macpac, NTM, Addex, Isuzu Truck as well as CTS Hire. There will also be presentations by TPPL on its framework solutions and food waste vehicle tenders.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS:?We are delighted to be supporting this key strategic event on our doorstep and to showcase a vehicle from our new hire fleet of food waste vehicles available from CTS. We have great relationships with all the suppliers, and we look forward to speaking to delegates about the benefits of contract hire as a solution for their food waste collection fleets.?SFS celebrated its 30-year anniversary in 2023 and has an extensive track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities across the UK. The company runs a nationwide network of workshops and operates its own specialist vehicle hire division, CTS Hire, for the provision of short to medium term municipal vehicles.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk; ENDS.                           https://www.sfs.co.uk/CTS_Hire_among_headline_acts_at_TPPLs_food_waste_vehicle_event--post--150.html 150 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/20240613_084732537_iOS.jpg 2024-06-14 00:00:00 1 With picture taken at Dennis Eagle factory in Warwickshire (left to right): David Marsh, Waste Management Team Manager, EFDC; David Ward, Managing Director, Terra Verde Services (TVS); James Warwick, Service Director (Contracts, Partnerships & Procurement) EFDC; Richard Taylor, Sales & Marketing Director, Dennis Eagle; Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS Epping Forest District Council (EFDC) has announced a new partnership with contract hire and fleet management company Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS), following the award of an 8-year contract for the provision & maintenance of a new fleet of waste and recycling vehicles, which commences on 4 November 2024.Earlier this year the council announced the plan to cease its arrangement with Biffa and bring its waste and recycling collection service back in-house to be operated by EFDC’s new wholly owned company Terra Verde Services (TVS). The new 52-vehicle fleet will comprise 30x 26t Refuse Collection Vehicles provided by Dennis Eagle plus additional support fleet including sweepers, tippers, and vans. SFS will have responsibility for the maintenance of the fleet, which will take place at the council’s new environmental operations hub at North Weald Airfield. Over 100 existing members of staff from Biffa will be TUPE transferred across to TVS to continue in their roles operating the vehicles. SFS will be recruiting additional staff to carry out fleet management and maintenance.  No rubbish or waste will be brought or stored on the airfield. The depot will provide storage, maintenance and fuelling for the new fleet, which can run on diesel or a carbon neutral alternative Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO).Cllr Ray Balcombe, Contracts, Service Delivery, and Improvement Portfolio Holder at EFDC said:"I am thrilled about our new partnership with SFS and pleased with the progress of Terra Verde Services (TVS). “Waste collection is a vital service, and it's clear that there have been challenges in the past, which have affected our residents. This partnership offers EFDC greater flexibility. Utilizing the SFS fleet is not only more cost-effective but also allows us to adapt the vehicles according to the evolving needs of the service. “The establishment of TVS gives control back to EFDC to ensure the highest quality service for our community.”To ensure a smooth roll out of the new service SFS will be delivering vehicles from the beginning of October ahead of the November start date.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: “This is the first time we have worked with Epping Forest District Council and we are thrilled to be brought on board at the beginning of this exciting new era for the council’s waste and recycling service provision. We are confident that we are the right partner to keep the council’s fleet running smoothly and efficiently, and we look forward to helping the council deliver sustained improvements to the service.”SFS celebrated its 30-year anniversary in 2023 and has an extensive track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities across the UK. The company runs a nationwide network of workshops and operates its own specialist vehicle hire division, CTS Hire, for the provision of short to medium term municipal vehicles.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601 or email info@sfs.co.uk.ENDS.                             https://www.sfs.co.uk/Epping_Forest_to_begin_new_era_of_waste_recycling_collections_with_SFS--post--149.html 149 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Reps%20from%20Epping%20forest%20council%2C%20SFS%20and%20Dennis%20Eagle.jpeg 2024-05-14 10:55:16 1 With pic: The new Romaquip fleet at North Devon Council with Matthew Patanden (UK Sales Manager, Romaquip), Jeffrey Bennett (Southern Operations Manager, SFS), Cllr Ian Roome (Leader of North Devon Council), Steve Howlett (Fleet Contract Manage, North Devon Council), Mark Kentell (Head of Environmental Enhancement, North Devon Council)A convoy of 16 brand new kerbside recycling vehicles has arrived in North Devon ready to carry out weekly collections across the district.The vehicles, all manufactured by Romaquip, have been supplied by the council?s vehicle and workshop partner, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS). In September 2021, North Devon Council joined forces with Somerset West and Taunton Council in a procurement exercise and awarded a 7-year contract to SFS for the provision and management of over 200 vehicles.Romaquip Kerb-Sort vehicles are designed ergonomically to maximise the range and volume of materials that can be collected directly from people?s homes. There are seven fully enclosed compartments, to eliminate the risk of litter and to enable every category of material to be stored separately. When safe to do so the vehicle can even be loaded from both sides simultaneously and to optimise load space plastics, cans and cardboard can be automatically compacted.Councillor Ian Roome, Leader of North Devon Council:?The arrival of our new fleet marks a significant step in our commitment to sustainability. These vehicles enhance our recycling efforts, ensuring a more efficient and eco-friendly collection process for the benefit of our community and the environment.?Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said:?We are pleased to be able to provide North Devon Council with this fleet of vehicles, which will help to maximise the amount of recycling that is collected, in an efficient and safe way.?Matt Patanden, UK Sales Manager, Romaquip: ?Romaquip is extremely pleased and grateful for the opportunity to supply the new fleet into North Devon District Council (NDDC) through SFS. Both NDDC & SFS are long standing customers of ours and we appreciate the continued support we receive from both parties. These vehicles, from our 2024 range, will help to future proof collections as they are configured to address the ever-changing recycling habits of residents.?SFS celebrated its 30-year anniversary in 2023 and has an extensive track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities across the UK. The company runs a nationwide network of workshops and operates its own specialist vehicle hire division, CTS Hire, for the provision of short to medium term municipal vehicles.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601 or  email info@sfs.co.uk. https://www.sfs.co.uk/North_Devon_welcomes_new_recycling_fleet--post--148.html 148 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/The%20new%20Romaquip%20fleet%20supplied%20by%20SFS%20to%20North%20Devon%20Council.jpg 2024-04-16 00:00:00 1 Pic caption - left to right: Paul Hedges, SFS with Chris Braines, Waste & Cleansing Manager, Teignbridge District CouncilThe first refuse vehicles have arrived at Teignbridge District Council as part of the council’s contract hire agreement with its fleet and workshop partner for over 20 years - Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS).The 12 Refuse Collection Vehicles (RCVs) are from UK manufacturer Dennis Eagle and comprise a combination of 18t, 22t and 26t vehicles. Fitted with lower emission Euro 6 engines, the fleet features the new Elite+ cab, which offers improved comfort for crews and provides drivers with optimum direct vision along with electric bin lifts from Terberg, which reduce noise levels for operatives.The delivery of these vehicles marks the start of a 56-vehicle replacement programme for the council, which includes kerbside recycling vehicles, sweepers for street cleansing and vans.Chris Braines, Waste & Cleansing Manager at Teignbridge District Council said: “We’re looking forward to putting the new and improved RCV’s into service.  It’s great to have a tried and tested product to help us deliver crucial frontline services and the technical support from SFS to facilitate a smooth transition.”Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said:“We have earned a reputation for retaining our customers through a combination of quality, service and efficiency and we are delighted that Teignbridge District Council has chosen us for consecutive contracts over the past 20 years. This new fleet will help the council to further improve the efficiency and sustainability of its services to residents.”Adam Robins, Regional Sales Manager, Dennis Eagle said:“It has been great to work with both Specialist Fleet Services and Teignbridge District Council once again. We have a strong working relationship with both the council and SFS, and we are grateful for the opportunity to continue our partnership” Adam Robins, Regional Sales Manager.SFS celebrated its 30-year anniversary in 2023 and has an extensive track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities across the UK. The company has an unrivalled retention record having served many of its customers for over 10 years.  The most long-standing customers include Teignbridge District Council, Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council and North Northamptonshire Council.  SFS customers in the South West include North Devon Council, Mid-Devon District Council, Exeter City Council and Somerset West and Taunton Council. The company runs a nationwide network of workshops and operates its own specialist vehicle hire division, CTS Hire, for the provision of short to medium term municipal vehicles.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601 or email info@sfs.co.uk https://www.sfs.co.uk/New_improved_fleet_for_Teignbridge_District_Council--post--147.html 147 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Teignbridge%20new%20RCV%20Fleet%3B%20Paul%20Hedges%2C%20SFS%20in%20cab%20with%20Chris%20Braines%2C%20Teignbridge%20DC%20.jpg 2024-04-08 00:00:00 1 In celebration of National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) 2024 we would like to introduce one of our apprentice HGV Technicians, Dave Fox-Williams.From Banger Racing to HGV Technician!16 yr old Dave Fox-Williams, Apprentice HGV Technician joined our depot at North Devon Council as a school leaver in August 2023.“I prefer to be hands-on and doing something practical so doing an apprenticeship really appealed to me. I’ve grown up around HGV’s; my dad is a refuse vehicle driver and my grandad used to be a loader, both for the council. I used to be a banger racing driver (you can race from age 12!) and that got me interested in mechanics.”Dave works 4 days a week at the depot and goes to college one day each week.  He will qualify as a Level 3 HGV Technician in 2026.  The work he carries out at the depot supports his learning at college; and he uploads photos and job cards as a record of the skills he is developing. Dave has been assigned a mentor Darren Polden, Workshop Techician, to guide and support him:Darren: “Dave is very positive and willing to learn.  He’s progressing well and developing into a good HGV technician.  The hands-on aspect of an apprenticeship helps to reinforce and support the classroom learning.”What do you like most about the job Dave?Dave: “HGVs are much more interesting to cars; there’s much more to learn. Wiring faults interest me. I enjoy troubleshooting and trying to identify where the problem is.“I have a good time at work; we always have a laugh, and the team are very supportive. This industry is great, and I feel lucky compared to what some of my friends are doing.”What are your ambitions for the future?“I really just want to get fully qualified, continue working with HGVs, and get better and better at working on them.”Although he doesn’t race himself anymore, in his spare time Dave is helping a friend build their own banger racing car.We wish you the best of luck qualifying as a Level 3 HGV Technician! https://www.sfs.co.uk/Celebrating_National_Apprenticeship_Week_NAW_511_February_2024--post--146.html 146 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/David%20Fox-Williams%20SFS%20Apprentice%20Technician%20N%20Devon%20Counil.jpeg 2024-02-02 00:00:00 1 With pics: A selection of vehicles from Hyndburn’s current fleetHyndburn Borough Council has entered its 14th year with vehicle partner Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS), having just awarded a new contract for the provision of five new refuse collection vehicles (RCVs) fitted with the latest safety equipment and electric bin lifts to enhance fuel savings.Working together since 2010, this is the 4th consecutive contract to be awarded by Hyndburn Borough Council to contract hire and fleet management specialists SFS. Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said:“We pride ourselves on establishing long-standing relationships with our customers and we achieve this by investing time and resources to understand every aspect of their operations and the challenges they face. We are thrilled to be fleet partners to Hyndburn Borough Council for the 14th year running.”The new fleet of RCV’s manufactured by Dennis Eagle are due to arrive in September 2024, and include new safety technology, to comply with the EU General & Pedestrian Safety Regulation (GSR), ahead of new mandatory regulations coming into force in July 2024.The council has introduced driver recognition wrist bands to prevent unauthorised vehicle usage and LIVE 360-degree camera systems to allow monitoring of the vehicles and crews in real-time during operations. As with the rest of the council’s fleet, the new vehicles will run on HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Fuel Oil) and feature Terberg electric bin lifts, which offer an additional 12% fuel saving. Michael Ainsworth, Transport Manager, Hyndburn Borough Council:“SFS has consistently provided a great service in terms of quality and price, and the support they provide is excellent. These new upgraded vehicles give us the opportunity to further enhance the safety of the public and our crews, and bring us nearer to our target to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2030.”SFS celebrated its 30-year anniversary in 2023 and has an extensive track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities across the UK. The company runs a nationwide network of workshops and operates its own specialist vehicle hire division, CTS Hire, for the provision of short to medium term municipal vehicles.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601 or email info@sfs.co.ukENDS.   https://www.sfs.co.uk/Hyndburn_enters_14th_year_with_SFS--post--145.html 145 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Hyndburn%20new%20fleet%20Sept%2020.jpg 2024-01-30 00:00:00 1 With pic: One of Teignbridge District Council’s current recycling vehicles, which will be replaced by the new fleetA new fleet is due to arrive at Teignbridge District Council in Spring 2024, as part of the council’s ongoing contract hire agreement with fleet and workshop management company Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS).The 56-vehicle fleet includes 12 Refuse Collection Vehicles, 20 Romaquip Kerb-Sort recycling vehicles, as well as a sweeper for street cleansing and vans to facilitate other council services such as car parks and enforcement.SFS, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, has been vehicle partner with Teignbridge for over 20 years, since 2002.  The current 7-year fleet replacement and maintenance contract was agreed in 2014 and was extended for an additional three years to enable the council to review its strategy on the decarbonisation of its fleet and workshops.Chris Braines, Waste and Cleansing Manager, Teignbridge District Council:“The new fleet will include the latest lower emissions technologies and assist us in providing the most efficient service we can, whilst improving our sustainability and reducing our carbon footprint.  We have a long-standing and successful partnership with SFS who continue to provide a very professional service and a high standard of expertise.”Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: “With this latest fleet replacement, we have provided more than 250 vehicles to Teignbridge District Council over the past 20+ years. We look forward to delivering the new fleet and to continuing our partnership with the council.”SFS has an unrivalled retention record having served many of its customers for over 10 years.  Other long-standing customers include Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council and North Northamptonshire Council.  Its fleet and plant asset list totals over 1800 items and the company maintains 800-850 refuse collection vehicles (RCVs), 200 of which belong to its vehicle hire division CTS Hire.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk; visit www.sfs.co.uk ENDS.                           https://www.sfs.co.uk/New_fleet_on_the_horizon_for_Teignbridge--post--144.html 144 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Recycling%20lorry%20in%20Ogwell%20013%20(1).jpg 2023-10-11 00:00:00 1 Local authority fleet and workshop management experts Specialist Fleet Services Ltd celebrates 30-years in business this month.To mark this milestone anniversary staff from the company and its vehicle rental division CTS Hire were invited to attend a special celebratory evening at Coombe Abbey in Warwickshire, where they enjoyed a medieval banquet and the presentation of awards including Commitment & Teamwork and Social Media Expert.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: “Reaching 30 years is a significant birthday and it was great to bring together staff from SFS and our vehicle rental division CTS Hire to celebrate this momentous occasion. I am proud of the whole team, and it was the perfect opportunity to thank everyone individually for their contribution to the company's success." Bob, who has been with the company from the start, received the award for Longest Serving Employee: “In 1992 I was working in local authority leasing for a bank and was introduced to Serco. They are a big facilities management company and had won a contract with Northampton County Council. I arranged bank funding for the vehicles, which Serco maintained, and the council paid a fixed price. Essentially it was a tripartite contract hire agreement and it worked well, so we set up a joint venture company to offer the same service to other councils.”“In 1992 I was working in local authority leasing for a bank and was introduced to Serco. They are a big facilities management company and had won a contract with Northampton County Council. I arranged bank funding for the vehicles, which Serco maintained, and the council paid a fixed price. Essentially it was a tripartite contract hire agreement and it worked well, so we set up a joint venture company to offer the same service to other councils.”SFS is now wholly owned by a bank and most of its customers remain local authorities, with 85% being full contract hire with maintenance, and the remaining 15% maintenance only contracts although these days most of the maintenance is carried out by SFS staff.Bob adds: “We operate 13 workshops spread throughout the country and, of those, 9 are local authority workshops, which we now run. In the early days we used to subcontract the maintenance work back to the council, but we find it works much better if we have full control. We can make greater commitments to the authority in terms of investment and service delivery levels.”SFS has an unrivalled retention record having served many of its customers for over 10 years.  The most long-standing customers include Teignbridge District Council, Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council and North Northamptonshire Council.  Its fleet and plant asset list totals over 1800 items and the company maintains 800-850 refuse collection vehicles (RCVs), 200 of which belong to its vehicle hire division CTS Hire.At this milestone in the company’s history the focus is very much on the future and in particular the decarbonisation of local authority fleets.Bob continued: “We have developed our expertise over time, according to what our customers need to meet the changing requirements of the services they provide. We invest a lot of time getting to know our customers’ operations inside out and we go to great lengths to stay ahead of the curve regarding new developments in vehicle technology, regulatory requirements, and government policies, so we can guide our customers through the challenges ahead.“The electrification and decarbonisation of fleets is a major area of focus for the future for most councils and we are helping our customers lay the foundations for alternative fuelled fleets. As part of this we have installed two electric refuse vehicles at CTS Hire that councils can rent for 3 months to try out the technology on rounds in their own area and make informed decisions about their refuse collection fleet.”For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk; visit www.sfs.co.uk ENDS.                                                                                                              https://www.sfs.co.uk/We_celebrate_30_years_in_business--post--143.html 143 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/SFS%2030%20years%20%20logo%20engraving%20jpg.jpg 2023-08-16 13:40:17 1 Picture caption: One of North Northamptonshire Council's RCVs on collection roundsNorth Northamptonshire Council has awarded a 7-year contract to Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) for the provision and maintenance of circa 45 vehicles.The contract commenced on 1 April and some of the new vehicles - 10 x 26t Dennis Eagle refuse vehicle fitted with Terberg bin lifts – have already been delivered in time for the start date. The remaining vehicles, which are due for delivery in September/October include 17 x 3.5t Ford caged tippers and a proportion of electric vehicles, the details of which are yet to be announced.Dedicated technical teams will maintain the new fleet from SFS’ depots in Kettering and Wellingborough.SFS has been working with the unitary authority since its formation in 2021, when existing customers Kettering and Corby Borough Councils merged with Wellingborough and East Northants Councils to become North Northamptonshire CouncilCllr Graham Lawman, North Northamptonshire Council’s Executive Member for Highways, Travel and Assets, said: “We are very pleased to be updating our fleet at North Northamptonshire Council with SFS, especially as we have been able to move to some electric vehicles, where possible. These new vehicles, along with the service back up, will allow us to continue serving our customers throughout the area and provide residents with an excellent waste and recycling service.”Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: “Winning this contract is great news and we are delighted to be North Northamptonshire Council’s fleet partner. We look forward to continuing to deliver an effective, value for money fleet replacement, maintenance, and management service to the authority.”Established in 1992, SFS has a successful track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities and the private sector and runs a network of workshops across the UK as well as operating its own municipal vehicle hire division, CTS Hire. For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk; visit www.sfs.co.ukENDS. https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_awarded_new_7year_contract_hire_agreement_by_North_Northamptonshire_Council--post--142.html 142 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/1.jpg 2023-06-08 12:53:49 1 Spelthorne Borough Council in Surrey has retained Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) as its fleet provider after announcing the award of a second contract commencing in June 2023.17 vehicles comprising 12 x Refuse Vehicle Vehicles and 5x sweepers are due to be delivered as part of the 7-year contract, which includes maintenance, to replace the council’s current waste, recycling, and street cleansing fleet.Cllr Richard Barratt, Chair of Spelthorne Council’s Neighbourhood Services Committee, said: “We are delighted to have signed a new seven-year contract with Specialist Fleet Services for 17 new vehicles and maintenance. We have a strong working relationship with SFS and look forward to continuing to work together to provide reliable and cost-effective refuse services for the residents of Spelthorne.”Northampton-based fleet management company SFS celebrates its 30-year anniversary this year and provides the complete range of vehicle hire and fleet management services to both the public and private sector, including contract hire, short term vehicle hire through its vehicle rental division CTS Hire, vehicle maintenance, workshop management, technical advice, and consultancy. SFS also runs its own network of workshops across the UK and a nationwide fleet of mobile engineers.SFS started working with Spelthorne Borough Council in 2017 when it was awarded a 6-year contract to replace and maintain the council's waste, recycling and street cleansing fleet. The contract involved the provision of over 17 vehicles and SFS runs a dedicated workshop on-site to maintain the vehicles.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS:“We have built a great working relationship with Spelthorne Borough Council. We have invested significant resources into gaining an in-depth understanding of the council’s operational needs and used our many years of experience to provide a ‘perfect fit’ fleet, which is well maintained to maximise vehicle availability and keep services running efficiently.”SFS are experts in assisting local authorities with the transition to lower emission and electric fleets, including infrastructure planning to support the next generation of vehicle technologies.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk; visit www.sfs.co.ukENDS.                                                                            https://www.sfs.co.uk/Spelthorne_awards_second_contract_to_SFS--post--141.html 141 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/DSC07964.jpg 2023-03-21 00:00:00 1 Picture caption: Bob Sweetland, SFS; Cllr Andrew Sully; and Cllr Dixie DarchA new fleet of vans, featuring the latest electric and next generation diesel vehicles, has arrived at Somerset West and Taunton (SWT) this month as part of the council’s plans to decarbonise its fleet and transition to sustainable vehicle technology.The vehicles, which will replace some of the council’s current fleet due for replacement this year, have been provided by Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) as part of a 7-year contract awarded in 2021.SWT's Executive Member for Environmental Services, Cllr Andrew Sully, said: “We are focused on actions to meet our climate emergency declaration and the decarbonisation of our corporate fleet reflects this. Where possible we have selected an electric vehicle solution and for operations where this isn’t possible yet, we have opted for the latest generation of lower emission diesel technology.”The new fleet comprises: 3 x Vauxhall eCombo’s; 1 x Skoda Karoq 4x4; 3 x Ford Rangers; 6 x Ford Transit Tippers; 2 x Kubota F391’s with Trimax Flails (Vincent Tractors); 4 x Vauxhall eCorsa’s and 1 x Isuzu N75 Arborist Tipper.SWT adopted the Somerset Climate Emergency Strategy and approved its own Carbon Neutrality and Climate Resilience (CNCR) Action Plan in October 2020. In partnership with the 4 other Somerset Councils, it also has an Electric Vehicle Charging Strategy outlining the roll out of charging points across the county.Northampton-based fleet management company SFS celebrates its 30-year anniversary this year and provides the complete range of vehicle hire and fleet management services to both the public and private sector, including contract hire, short term vehicle hire through its vehicle rental division CTS Hire, vehicle maintenance, workshop management, technical advice, and consultancy. It also runs its own network of workshops across the UK and a nationwide fleet of mobile engineers.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: “We are pleased to be working with Somerset West & Taunton Council to help achieve its carbon reduction targets. This is the just the first step in creating a more sustainable fleet for the future and we look forward to continuing working together to enhance the new combined council’s vehicle provision.”For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk; visit www.sfs.co.uk ENDS                                        https://www.sfs.co.uk/Next_generation_fleet_arrives_at_Somerset_West_and_Taunton--post--140.html 140 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/DSC_0005.JPG 2023-03-20 00:00:00 1 Three years ago, 16-year-old Connor joined us as an apprentice at our Hinckley Borough Council depot after leaving school. We are pleased to announce that he has just qualified and is now a fully-fledged HGV Technician. Congratulations Connor!Connor’s grandad was a mechanic and haulage truck driver, which influenced his decision to work with HGVs.Connor: “I can be academic, but I prefer practical work and I didn’t want to just go to college. I’ve come on massively over the past few years. I knew nothing about HGVs when I joined, but thanks to the training and encouragement from the team at SFS I have gained a whole new range of skills.”Connor’s career progression has only just begun and there is a training plan already in place to ensure he continues to grow and develop. Next on the agenda is gaining his HGV licence, as well as participating in a variety of vehicle specific training courses.Ricky Stretch, Workshop Controller at Hinckley depot: “I’m proud of Connor and his achievement in qualifying as an HGV Technician.  He is hard working and always willing to tackle any task that we put in front of him. I’ve been really impressed with his attitude and work ethic.”Connor: “SFS have been brilliant; they support me every step of the way in my career and if I have any problems Ricky is always there to help me and guide me in the right direction.”We are always on the lookout for potential HGV Technician apprentices and interested candidates can email info@sfs.co.uk or check out the Careers page on our website for details of current opportunities.For more information on National Apprenticeship Week 2023 visit https://nationalapprenticeshipweek.co.uk/ ENDS.  https://www.sfs.co.uk/National_Apprenticeship_Week_2023_Apprenticeship_success_for_Connor--post--139.html 139 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/IMG_3700.jpg 2023-02-06 00:00:00 1 With pic: One of Teignbridge District Council?s new Romaquip Kerb-Sort vehicles supplied by SFS2022 marks the 20th year that Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) has been vehicle partner to Teignbridge District Council and the council has recently decided to extend the current contract hire arrangement for another three years.SFS, which was awarded a third consecutive 7-year contract with Teignbridge in 2014 has been providing and maintaining the council?s fleet since 2002.Chris Braines, Waste & Cleansing Manager, Teignbridge District Council:?We have extended the current contract with SFS whilst we review our strategy on low emission vehicles and decarbonisation of our fleet and workshops. SFS continues to replace and maintain vehicles in our fleet as required.  We continue to be impressed with the quality of service, levels of expertise and professional approach from SFS, and we look forward to continuing our excellent working relationship.?Northampton-based fleet management company SFS was established nearly 30 years ago and is part of the Paragon Banking Group. It offers the complete range of vehicle hire and fleet management services to both the public and private sector, including contract hire, short term vehicle hire, vehicle maintenance, workshop management, technical advice, and consultancy. SFS also runs its own network of workshops across the UK and operates its own specialist vehicle hire division, CTS Hire.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said:?We have been working with Teignbridge District Council since 2002 and we have provided over 200 vehicles to date.  Our priority is to create long-term relationships and we are delighted to have retained Teignbridge for nearly 20 years.  As experts in alternative fuel vehicles, we are also able to provide guidance on the adoption of low emissions vehicles to help combat climate change.?For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk; visit www.sfs.co.ukENDS.                            https://www.sfs.co.uk/Teignbridge_District_Council_enters_20th_year_with_SFS--post--138.html 138 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/New%20Romaquip%20Kerbsort%20vehicle%20at%20Teignbridge%20DC.jpg 2022-09-08 00:00:00 1 Picture caption: David Newcombe, Managing Director of Commercial Lending, Paragon Bank with one of Exeter’s new eCollect electric refuse vehiclesA fleet of three brand new eCollect electric refuse vehicles have started working collection rounds in Exeter, helping the city to reduce carbon emissions, air pollution and noise.The 26t vehicles, which went into service on 1 July, have been installed by Exeter City Council’s fleet partner, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) as part of a 7-year fleet agreement, which commenced in 2019.Northampton-based fleet management company SFS is part of the Paragon Banking Group and the first UK contract hire company to install an entire fleet of eCollect RCVs.Dave Newcombe, Managing Director of Commercial Lending, Paragon said:“As a supporter of the government’s ambition to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, I’m delighted that Paragon and SFS are able to support Exeter City Council’s goals to decarbonise their refuse fleet.” Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said:“The decarbonisation of Exeter’s RCVs is an important step in the rollout of commercial electric vehicles and SFS are proud to be the first contract hire company to install a fleet of eCollect RCVs in the UK.“We are confident that the benefits of the new fleet will be appreciated by both crews and residents and provides an excellent real-world example to other local authorities of what is now possible and how it can be achieved.” To further reduce the council’s impact on climate change the new electric fleet will eventually be powered by the Water Lane Solar Park, scheduled for completion this summer.SFS was established nearly 30 years ago and has a successful track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities across the UK. The company runs a network of workshops across the UK as well as operating its own specialist vehicle hire division, CTS Hire.ENDS.                                                   https://www.sfs.co.uk/Exeters_electric_refuse_vehicle_fleet_goes_into_service--post--137.html 137 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Electric%20refuse%20vehicles%20hit%20the%20streets%20of%20Exeter%20-%201.jpg 2022-07-06 00:00:00 1  Recycling is changing across Lichfield District and Tamworth Borough. To improve the quality of recycled materials collected from homes, a new fleet of refuse vehicles has arrived to collect paper and card separately from other dry mixed recyclables such as glass, tins, and plastic.A fleet of five new 26t Twin Pack refuse vehicles, designed to collect separate waste and recycling streams at the same time, has been delivered to Lichfield and Tamworth Joint Waste Service by Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS). Following a competitive tendering process in 2016, SFS was chosen as the service’s vehicle provider in a six-year contract hire agreement, with an option to extend for an additional six years.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said:“We have enjoyed working with the Joint Waste Service over the past 5 years and we have developed an excellent working relationship. The transition from the councils’ previous operators was very smooth and we are delighted with the resulting improvements in vehicle technology and availability. These vehicles will help to ensure the new collections are efficient as well as facilitate the Service’s commitment to improving recycling rates.”As part of the contract SFS has already provided 22 replacement vehicles to replenish the Service’s refuse, recycling, and street cleansing fleet. The contract also includes the maintenance of the vehicles at Lichfield District Council’s workshop facilities.The new recycling service is currently being rolled out and recycling will continue to be collected every fortnight.  New waterproof blue bags to store paper and card are being delivered to residents.Councillor Ashley Yeates, cabinet member for climate change and recycling, said: “It is vital that we do everything we can to improve recycling rates across Lichfield and Tamworth and we are confident this measure will make a significant difference.”SFS was established nearly 30 years ago and has a successful track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities across the UK. The company runs a network of workshops across the UK as well as operating its own specialist vehicle hire division, CTS Hire.ENDS.                           https://www.sfs.co.uk/New_fleet_helps_Lichfield_and_Tamworth_improve_quality_of_recycling_collections--post--136.html 136 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Lichfield%20Twinpack%20recycling%20wagon%20copy.jpeg 2022-05-03 00:00:00 1 North Northamptonshire Council's vehicle partner Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) has provided an interim fleet of 30 vehicles, via its municipal vehicle hire division CTS Hire, to carry out the new 'in-house' waste, recycling, street cleansing and grounds maintenance service, introduced on 1st April in the Wellingborough area.Wellingborough Norse had previously provided waste and recycling collections for residents, along with street cleansing, grounds maintenance, parks and open spaces, and fleet and transport, all of which have now been brought back ‘in house’. The new interim fleet comprises 11 x 26t Refuse Collection Vehicles, 1 x 7.5t tipper, 14 x 3.5t caged tippers, 1 x truck mounted sweeper and 2x compact sweepers.Cllr Graham Lawman, Executive Member for Highways, Travel and Assets at North Northamptonshire Council, said: “Following the update of our fleet in Corby and Kettering last year, we are pleased to be continuing our work with SFS, with an interim fleet being provided for the Wellingborough area.“With services being brought back in-house, residents should not see any immediate change on a day-to-day basis and, combined with updating our fleet, this means we can continue to provide residents with a reliable waste and recycling service.”Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: “We are delighted to have been able to provide a fleet of the latest vehicle technology to facilitate North Northamptonshire’s new in-house waste and recycling collection services.“Having our own municipal vehicle hire division means that we are able to deliver vehicles on short term hire and at short notice, as well as assist with more complex and longer-term fleet, maintenance and workshop requirements.”SFS was established nearly 30 years ago and has a successful track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities across the UK. The company runs a network of workshops across the UK as well as operating its own specialist vehicle hire division, CTS Hire. ENDS.                                                               https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_CTS_Hire_provide_interim_fleet_for_new_inhouse_services_in_Wellingborough--post--135.html 135 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Wheely%20bins%20on%20streetHR.jpg 2022-04-13 00:00:00 1  Exeter City Council will soon be taking delivery of three new electric refuse vehicles, which will ultimately be powered by renewable energy sources, to help the city achieve its target to become carbon neutral by 2030.Following a successful trial last year three Dennis Eagle eCollect 26t electric Refuse Collection Vehicles (RCVs) will be delivered in June this year. It will be the first eCollect refuse vehicle fleet in the UK to be provided on contract hire, thanks to the council’s vehicle partner Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS), as part of a 7-year fleet agreement, which commenced in 2019. The new electric bin lorries, which are quieter and produce zero local emissions, will be used to collect refuse and recycling from residents. The fleet will eventually be powered by the Water Lane Solar Park, which is currently being built by the council and is scheduled for completion this summer. The park will comprise 3,700 solar panels to create 1.2MW of clean green energy.Cllr David Harvey, Exeter City Council’s Lead Councillor for City Management, said: “The introduction of three brand new electric refuse collection vehicles into our fleet is fantastic news for Exeter and its residents. The vehicles are clean and quiet and are a vital step on our journey towards a carbon neutral City. When it is complete the new solar array at Water Lane will supply power to the vehicles further reducing the carbon impact.“Over 20% of the City Council’s vehicles are now electrically powered and this is the vital next step on delivering a 100% carbon neutral fleet.”Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: “We are proud to be the first contract hire company to install a fleet of eCollect refuse vehicles in the UK. This is an important step in the decarbonisation of Exeter’s fleet, and we are confident that the new vehicles will be well received by crews and residents.”Richard Taylor, Sales and Marketing Director, Dennis Eagle: “Congratulations to Specialist Fleet Services for being the first company to provide an eCollect fleet on contract hire. Exeter crews have already had the opportunity to trial the vehicle and the feedback was very positive.  We look forward to working with SFS in the future to help more councils across the UK improve air quality with our eCollect and have a bigger impact on climate change.”SFS was established nearly 30 years ago and has a successful track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities across the UK. The company runs a network of workshops across the UK as well as operating its own specialist vehicle hire division, CTS Hire.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk; visit www.sfs.co.ukENDS.               https://www.sfs.co.uk/First_eCollect_electric_fleet_on_contract_hire_destined_for_Exeter_City_Council--post--134.html 134 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Exeter%20eCollect%20Trial%202022%20(15).jpg 2022-03-23 00:00:00 1 East Staffordshire Borough Council has awarded Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) a 5-year contract to maintain its new fleet, which commences on 1 November.In 2020 the Council declared a climate emergency and the new fleet is part of its Climate Change Action Plan to reduce emissions and improve recycling rates in the Borough. The partnership with SFS will enable the council to ensure its waste and street cleaning services continue to be provided to a high standard.SFS has been working with neighbouring councils, Lichfield District and Tamworth Borough, since 2016 as part of a 6 year (+6 yr) contract hire agreement with the Lichfield & Tamworth Joint Waste Service providing vehicles, workshop management and maintenance services.Councillor Ray Faulkner, Deputy Leader (Environment & Housing), East Staffordshire Borough Council says:“SFS are well established in the local area and have an experienced team already in place.  The contract ensures we should always have a fully functioning fleet.  SFS is responsible for all our vehicle servicing, MOTs, repairs, breakdowns and replacement vehicles allowing the Council to focus on providing and maintaining the highest standards of service for residents.” Following a detailed options appraisal the council procured its own new fleet of 34 vehicles, comprising a combination of Refuse Collection Vehicles, sweepers, caged tippers, and vans, 5 of which are electric, putting the Council ahead of its Climate Change Action Plan target to replace its waste collection fleet with low emission vehicles by 2030.SFS has a tri-partite agreement with the council and Dennis Eagle to whom it is sub-contracting a proportion of the maintenance work.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) says:“We are really pleased to welcome East Staffordshire Borough Council as a new customer. This contract is a great example of our flexibility as a local authority partner. We have worked closely with all parties to establish an arrangement that enables the council to improve its fleet availability and service provision, as well as minimise any risk.”SFS was established nearly 30 years ago and has a successful track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities across the UK. The company runs a network of workshops across the UK as well as operating its own specialist vehicle hire division, CTS Hire.ENDS.              https://www.sfs.co.uk/East_Staffordshire_reinforces_vehicle_availability_with_SFS_maintenance_contract--post--133.html 133 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/East%20Staffs%20RCV%20October%2021.jpg 2021-10-15 00:00:00 1 With pic (L to R): Simon Martin, SFS; Cllr Netti Pearson, North Devon Council and; Paul Burton, Service Manager, North Devon Council with the new fleet of refuse vehicles Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) is expanding its operations in the South West following the award of two new 7 year (+7) contract hire agreements from Somerset West and Taunton Council, and North Devon Council.The councils undertook a joint procurement exercise and the contracts, which together involve the management of nearly 200 vehicles, commence on 1 October 2021. SFS, which already manages the fleets for Mid-Devon District Council and Exeter City Council, will run the fleets separately although there will be some sharing of workshop facilities.Somerset West and Taunton Council?s fleet comprises approximately 120 vehicles, primarily LCVs, and maintenance will be carried out at a new workshop being established at the Council?s depot.Stuart Noyce, Assistant Director, Commercial Services, Somerset West and Taunton Council:?I have worked with SFS previously and I am very confident in their abilities to deliver an excellent standard of service to Somerset West and Taunton.  Decarbonisation is a major focus for us going forward and they will be helping us in the transition to electric vehicles, both in terms of advising regarding suitable vehicle technology and helping us to develop the appropriate charging infrastructure.  ?We used to have a number of different maintenance providers, which wasn?t very efficient. Now we have one provider for the vehicle provision and maintenance as well as a fixed price, which is much better for budgeting and provides us with a long-term view regarding our fleet costs.?At North Devon Council SFS will be responsible for the management of approximately 70 vehicles, comprising mainly Heavy Commercial Vehicles (HGVs) including refuse and recycling vehicles and kerbside collection vehicles. SFS is also taking over the running of the Council?s workshop facility, including the TUPE transfer of three existing members of staff.Paul Burton, Service Manager, Operational Services, North Devon Council, says:?Our existing fleet is old and not as reliable as we would like it to be, which has led to an increase in missed bin collections. The new contract with SFS will replace our old vehicles with a new fleet featuring the latest low emissions technology. As a result, we can provide a more reliable service to our residents and reduce our carbon emissions. ?Increased vehicle availability will create savings as we reduce overtime payments and the reliance on spot hire vehicles, as well as lessen wear and tear on vehicles. We also anticipate using SFS? expertise regarding the addition of electric refuse vehicles to our fleet once the technology can cater for our kind of terrain and travelling distances.?Four brand new refuse vehicles have already arrived at North Devon Council ready for the start of the contract.Lead Member for the Environment at North Devon Council, Councillor Netti Pearson, says: "I am really pleased we have been able to secure this contract. Not only have we been able to work collaboratively with a neighbouring council, but we have also taken the leap into using vehicles that produce lower emissions. Air pollution is a worry for everyone, and I believe this is a great first step in making a positive difference to our environment.?SFS was established nearly 30 years ago and has a successful track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities across the UK. The company runs a network of workshops across the UK as well as operating its own specialist vehicle hire division, CTS Hire.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS, says: ?Winning these contracts further establishes our service provision in the South West and enables us to share our resources to maximise the efficiency savings for our customers. We are very happy to welcome Somerset West & Taunton and North Devon councils, and we look forward to delivering the latest vehicle technology, enhancing vehicle availability, and preparing both authorities for a low carbon future.?For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk; ENDS.                                         https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_expands_operations_in_the_South_West--post--131.html 131 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Picture%20of%20Simon%20Netti%20and%20Paul.jpg 2021-10-01 00:00:00 1 As part of a new contract hire agreement Northampton-based fleet management company Specialist Fleet Services ltd (SFS) has supplied Epsom & St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust with three, 9.2m 34-seater low-carbon Enviro200 buses, all fitted with CCTV and Traffilog telematics.SFS Head of Tenders, Paul Connor, said: “We’re thrilled to have been chosen by Epsom & St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust to provide the new bus fleet.  Having operated a workshop in Epsom since 2005, our local team are delighted to be supporting the Trust who deliver such vital services across the region”Gerry Hocking, Transport Manager, Epsom & St Helier NHS Trust: “We are delighted with the excellent service from SFS. They have been extremely accommodating and the engineers at their local Epsom workshop have been very helpful."The buses will be used on the H1 staff shuttle between the Trust’s Epsom and Sutton hospital locations and were manufactured by Alexander Dennis Ltd (ADL), a subsidiary of NFI Group Inc. ADL is a global leader in the design and manufacture of double deck buses and the UK’s largest bus and coach manufacturer.Mark Taylor, ADL Sales Account Manager, said: “These are excellent quality, low-emission vehicles and will be a great asset to the NHS trust. We’d like to thank SFS for their order and look forward to working with them further in the future.”Established in 1992, SFS has a successful track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities and the private sector and runs a network of workshops across the UK as well as operating its own municipal vehicle hire division, CTS Hire.  For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk;  ENDS                                         https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_supplies_Smart_lowcarbon_buses_to_NHS--post--130.html 130 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Epsom%20and%20St%20Helier%20NHS%20Enviro200%20bus-edited%20no%20reg.jpg 2021-07-20 00:00:00 1  Picture caption (Left to Right): Malcolm Rockey, Workshop Controller, Epsom & Ewell Borough Council; James Edghill, SFS Mobile Engineer; Jeffrey Bennett, Southern Regional Operations Manager, SFS; Cllr Neil Dallen,  Chair of Environment and Safe Communities Committee, Epsom & Ewell Borough Council; at the council’s newly expanded and refurbished workshop  Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) has refurbished and expanded the workshop facility at Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, an investment that forms part of its 10-year fleet replacement and maintenance contract with the authority.The workshop now features an additional second bay and a new internal office. The scope of works also included the installation of new workshop floor coverage, another set of vehicle lifts and an additional roller shutter door.Cllr Neil Dallen, Chair of Environment and Safe Communities Committee: “We are delighted with our modernised, larger facility and grateful to SFS for their investment. This allows for more flexible and efficient scheduling of vehicle maintenance work and more room for the organisation of tools and equipment. The workshop team are very pleased with the new set-up and their brand-new office.”SFS were awarded the 10-year contract (with an optional 10-year extension) in 2017 and included plans to extend the workshop in their tender. The 6-week project has been carried out to a very high standard and was completed on time in full compliance of COVID-19 restrictions.Cllr Neil Dallen added: “We are very happy that SFS are investing in the council’s future and we will reap the benefits of their investment for many years to come. They were the only provider to include such provision within their tender and it was one of the reasons they were awarded the contract.”Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: “The new workshop looks great and will make a big difference to the day to day running of the fleet. The extra space will enable work to be carried out on two vehicles simultaneously, which will make it easier to schedule the 6-weekly inspections alongside additional MOTs, servicing,general repairs and maintenance work. The facilities are now also adequate enough for us to be able to employ and train an apprentice.”Established in 1992, SFS has a successful track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities and the private sector and runs a network of workshops across the UK as well as operating its own municipal vehicle hire division, CTS Hire.  For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601 or email info@sfs.co.uk.ENDS. https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_invests_in_workshop_at_Epsom_Ewell_Borough_Council--post--129.html 129 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Expanded%20workshop%20at%20Epsom%20and%20Ewell%20July%2021.jpg 2021-07-13 00:00:00 1 Local authority fleet partner Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) has been ranked #1 for the hire of specialist and commercial vehicles (exceeding 5000 kg G.V.W) in the latest vehicle procurement framework established by Halton Housing.Halton Housing has recently completed a tendering exercise to establish a national contract hire and flexi-hire framework agreement covering the supply of cars, light commercial, heavy commercial and specialist vehicles up to 44,000kg GVW. It is the fourth iteration of the framework.The framework comprises four different lots and SFS has been ranked first in Lots 2 and 4 for the short term, flexi and contract hire of specialist and commercial vehicles over 5000 kg GVW.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: ?This is a widely trusted framework and we are delighted to have scored so highly during the tendering process.  Such frameworks help to make our expertise more readily accessible to public sector organisations.?Organisations eligible to use the framework include local authorities, social landlords, NHS trusts, Police & Fire Authorities, Leisure trusts, Registered Charities, Schools, Universities and Colleges.Established in 1992, SFS has a successful track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities and the private sector and runs a network of workshops across the UK as well as operating its own municipal vehicle hire division, CTS Hire.  For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601 or email info@sfs.co.uk.For more information about Halton Housing visit www.haltonhousing.co.ukENDS                                         https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_ranked_1_in_new_Halton_Housing_framework--post--128.html 128 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Halton_Housing_Logo_.png 2021-07-07 00:00:00 1 New unitary authority North Northamptonshire Council is updating its waste and recycling fleet with a vehicle replacement programme involving over 110 vehicles.Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) was awarded the contract to provide and maintain the vehicles as well as workshop management services. Previously SFS worked for Kettering and Corby Borough Councils, both of which are now part of the newly formed North Northamptonshire Council along with Wellingborough and East Northants Councils.The first vehicles began arriving at the Council?s Kettering depot in February this year and include 11x 26t Refuse Collection Vehicles (RCVs) and 2x 18t RCVs from Dennis Eagle, all fitted with Euro 6 engines, which offer low carbon emissions. The vehicles are also equipped with onboard weighing equipment and the latest safety equipment including the Maple DriveLock system to protect vehicles against unauthorised movement or theft, the Cyclear cyclist warning device and 360° vehicle camera recording systems with LANlink automatic footage download, from ISS.Cllr Graham Lawman, Executive Member for Highways, Travel and Assets at North Northamptonshire Council, said:?We are very pleased to be updating our fleet at North Northamptonshire Council with SFS. These new vehicles come with additional safety features to keep our crews and members of the public safe, as well as more efficient engines which cut fuel use and reduce air pollution. By updating our fleet we can ensure we continue to provide residents with a reliable waste and recycling service.?The remaining vehicles, over half of which have already been delivered, include 90+ Ford Connect and Ford Transit vans fitted with a range of different body specifications, plus a truck-mounted Scarab Sweeper.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: ?We have enjoyed an excellent working relationship with Kettering Borough Council for over 17 years and we hope to continue as a key vehicle partner with North Northamptonshire Council.?Established in 1992, SFS has a successful track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities and the private sector and runs a network of workshops across the UK as well as operating its own municipal vehicle hire division, CTS Hire. For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.ukENDS                https://www.sfs.co.uk/New_unitary_authority_North_Northants_Council_replaces_waste_management_fleet--post--127.html 127 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/North%20Northants%20replacement%20fleet%20from%20SFS%20(pano3%2B1%20vehicles).jpg 2021-06-17 00:00:00 1 Local authority vehicle partner Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) has been awarded a place on a new specialist vehicles procurement framework launched by The Procurement Partnership (TPPL) and the North Easter Procurement Organisation (NEPO) earlier this year.The framework provides all public bodies in the UK with a compliant route to market for the acquisition of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) and specialist vehicles. SFS has been named a supplier on LOT 3 and LOT4 of the framework for the contract hire of HGVs (12.5t and above) and buses (5-75 seats).Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: ?We are pleased to be part of the framework, which can assist local authorities and other public bodies in managing their fleet requirements. Our approach is very much in line with both TPPL and NEPO as we aim to help our customers improve the efficiency of their fleet operations, adding value wherever possible, to enhance their front-line services.? Established in 1992, SFS has a successful track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities and the private sector and runs a network of workshops across the UK as well as operating its own municipal vehicle hire division, CTS Hire.  For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601 or email info@sfs.co.ukENDS.             https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_joins_new_HGV_and_specialist_vehicles_framework--post--126.html 126 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/0C228190-8170-4A1C-8485-8EF1A2E714F2.png 2021-04-20 00:00:00 1 Alan Chivers has been appointed as Director of Fleet Operations for SFS.Alan, who has over 38-years? experience in commercial and municipal vehicle provision, will be overseeing all aspects of the SFS?s extensive nationwide local authority fleet, vehicle maintenance and workshop management contracts.  Alan will also be working closely with the SFS team on the implementation of strategies regarding the electrification of customer fleets and the utilisation of alternative fuel vehicles.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, Specialist Fleet Services said: ?Alan has a proven track record in managing diverse and complex fleets, and brings with him a raft of experience and skills to complement and enhance our activities. We are delighted to welcome him to the team.?Alan Chivers began his working life in 1983 as a Commercial Vehicle Engineering apprentice for Reading Borough Council. During his career he worked for a range of private and public sector organisations, progressing to roles such as Workshop Manager and Fleet Manager for a commercial vehicle engineering company. Prior to joining SFS Alan was Head of Fleet Services for the Isle of Man Government.Alan said: ?I already knew SFS from my previous roles and they have an excellent reputation in the industry. When I heard about the job I was delighted because it seemed perfect for me. After just a short time I?m delighted to say I feel very much at home. I?m looking forward to working with the team and to getting to know our customers. The world of fleet is changing fast with the introduction of new technologies and SFS is at the forefront. It feels good to be in the right place at the right time.?Established in 1992, SFS has a successful track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities and the private sector and runs a network of workshops across the UK as well as operating its own municipal vehicle hire division, CTS Hire.  For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.ukENDS.                                                                                       https://www.sfs.co.uk/New_Director_at_Specialist_Fleet_Services--post--125.html 125 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Alan%20Chivers.jpg 2021-03-26 00:00:00 1 Local population growth, increased recycling quantities and extensive new residential developments have led Hambleton District Council to expand its refuse and recycling collection fleet with vehicles part-powered by electricity to reduce carbon emissions.In February the authority took delivery of six new 26t Dennis Eagle Twinpack refuse trucks, to replace and expand its existing fleet of five vehicles. In line with the council?s efforts to reduce carbon emissions the new vehicles are fitted with electric triple bin lifts, which use less diesel than hydraulic lifts and are also quieter thus reducing noise pollution.Cllr Stephen Watson, Cabinet spokesperson, Hambleton District Council: ?These electric bin lifts will not only help reduce our carbon emissions but are also less noisy, so they are far more environmentally friendly.?The council already operates 4 electric vehicles comprising two cars and two Nissan eNV200 electric vans.?Unfortunately, we cannot move to all electric vehicles as our rounds are too long and currently the technology would not allow them to complete a round without needing recharging.   But we are looking at all ways to reduce emissions and using electric vehicles where it is possible.?Sue Seddon, Technical Support Manager, Hambleton District Council: ?We have invested in an additional vehicle to accommodate collections from a large number of new properties, which will ultimately create a new round. The sixth vehicle will be supporting the rest of the fleet with recycling, garden waste and household refuse collections until the new properties come online.?All the vehicles have been supplied by the council?s vehicle partner Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) as part of a 10-year contract hire agreement awarded in 2015.  SFS first became Hambleton District Council?s vehicle partner in 2007 and since then the authority has renewed its contract with SFS on three consecutive occasions.Sue Seddon added: ?Our relationship with SFS is excellent. They are approachable at every level and understood our organisation very quickly. Nothing is ever a problem. Because they do their job so well it means we can concentrate on the job in hand and collect waste and recycling without having to worry about our Operators licence, or when vehicles need servicing, repairs and MOTs.  They help us maximise the efficiency of our fleet and workshop operations, so vehicle downtime is minimised; and assist us in future proofing our fleet by incorporating low emissions technologies to meet carbon reduction targets.?Established in 1992, SFS has a successful track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities and the private sector and runs a network of workshops across the UK as well as operating its own municipal vehicle hire division, CTS Hire. Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: ?It?s great to hear that Hambleton are very happy with our services. We have enjoyed building a long-lasting relationship that is performing really well. As with all our customers we invest as much time and resources as required to gain an  in-depth understanding of their operations so that we can exceed their needs and add value wherever possible.?For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.ukSFS on social media: Facebook - @SpecialistFleetServices; Twitter - @SpecialistFleetENDS                                                                            https://www.sfs.co.uk/Hambleton_accommodates_new_homes_with_greener_fleet--post--124.html 124 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/new%20electric%20waste%20trucks%202.jpg 2021-03-03 00:00:00 1 Pictured: L to R - Mark Howe, SFS Contract Manager; Robert Mitcham, Fleet & Vehicle Maintenance Manager, CCBC Caerphilly County Borough Council (CCBC) has taken delivery of 315 new vehicles since Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) won a 7-year fleet replacement contract with the authority in 2017.SFS has provided a wide range of vehicles since taking over the contract including tippers, road sweepers, gully machines, mini-buses, transit vans, and cars.This month a new fleet of 11 x Dennis Eagle 26 tonne 6x2 rear steer Refuse Collection Vehicles (RCVs) fitted with the latest ISS 360° camera recording systems has arrived at the council depot. These will be followed by 8 new Nissan e-NV200 electric vans, to facilitate the provision of services such as Meals on Wheels and building cleaning, which will go towards reducing the council’s carbon emissions.  The council is utilising SFS’s back office support to control and monitor the vehicles, and the contract includes maintenance of the vehicles, which SFS has subcontracted back to the council.Robert Mitcham, Fleet & Vehicle Maintenance Manager at CCBC said:” The team at SFS are great to work with, both as a supplier and a customer with regards to the maintenance of the vehicles. They continue to assist us with improvements in our maintenance systems, and health and safety standards. They also ensure that the replacement vehicles are the right specification and fit for purpose in terms of operation, interior design and safety.”SFS has employed a dedicated contract manager located on site at the Council depot to ensure the contract runs smoothly and can utilise the services of its own municipal vehicle hire division, CTS Hire, for the provision of any short-term vehicles.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: “The contract is running very well and we enjoy an excellent working relationship with the Caerphilly team. We are particularly delighted that we have been able to continue delivering replacement vehicles, on schedule, throughout the pandemic.“Our extensive experience in the provision of complex fleets has enabled us to improve the efficiency of the council’s fleet operation and, with the assistance of our municipal vehicle hire division, we can  provide any short term hire vehicles as and when required.”Established in 1992, SFS has a successful track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities and the private sector and runs a network of workshops across the UK as well as operating its own municipal vehicle hire division, CTS Hire. For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk; visit www.sfs.co.ukSFS on social media: Facebook - @SpecialistFleetServices; Twitter - @SpecialistFleet ENDS                                                                https://www.sfs.co.uk/Over_300_vehicles_delivered_to_Caerphilly_County_Borough_Council--post--123.html 123 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/L%20to%20R%20Mark%20Howe%20SFS%20Contract%20Manager%20and%20Robert%20Mitcham%20Fleet%20Manager%20at%20Caerpilly%20County%20Borough%20Council%20with%20new%20RCV%20Fleet%20Feb21.jpg 2021-02-12 00:00:00 1 Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) has been awarded a 7-year vehicle maintenance contract by Boston Borough Council. As part of the contract, SFS is making a considerable investment into the local community by creating a brand-new workshop for the authority.Before reaching its decision, Boston Borough Council carried out a comprehensive cost comparison analysis of the available options, with assistance from The Borough of Kings Lynn & West Norfolk Procurement Service and The Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE). This included bringing the maintenance of the vehicles back ?in-house?, sharing with East Lindsey District Council or using SFS. The results were conclusive; SFS offered the most cost-effective solution.Matt Fisher, Operations Manager, Boston Borough Council: ?We carried out an EU Procurement tender exercise, but the bids failed on affordability. Following that we looked at every possible option before entering into contract negotiations with SFS. We were extremely impressed by the professional and flexible way they approached the tender. Not only did SFS provide the most cost-effective solution, their investment into a new workshop will provide a much-needed boost to the local community, by creating new jobs and supplier opportunities.?The contract begins on 1 January 2021 when SFS will take over the maintenance of the council?s waste management and street cleansing fleet comprising 11 Refuse Collection Vehicles (RCVs), 13 Light Commercial Vehicles and 2 sweepers.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: ?This is our first contract in Lincolnshire, and we are delighted to have been chosen as the preferred provider by Boston Borough Council.  We are keen to invest in the local economy and are looking forward to setting up the new depot.?Established in 1992, SFS has a successful track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities and the private sector and runs a network of workshops across the UK as well as operating its own municipal vehicle hire division, CTS Hire. For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk; ENDS. https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_the_most_costeffective_choice_for_Boston_Borough_Council--post--122.html 122 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Boston%20BC%20Refuse%20Vehicle.JPG 2020-11-24 00:00:00 1 Our partnership with Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council began nearly 16 years ago and has flourished through changing service provision, multiple competitive tender processes and consecutive contract awards. However, never before has the council appreciated having a shoulder to lean on quite as much as during the current pandemic, which has been a huge challenge across all service areas.Caroline Roffey, Head of Street Scene Services, Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council: ?It has been a very challenging time indeed and we?ve had to work our fleet of vehicles extra hard to cope. We?ve been collecting up to three times the usual volume of waste and recycling, so we needed to keep them running for longer. Thankfully the SFS engineers in the workshop have carried on working as normal throughout the pandemic, keeping the vehicles in excellent condition with preventative maintenance as well as carrying out any minor repairs quickly. As a result, the fleet has performed very well.?Dry recycling tonnages remain at above the levels usually seen at Christmas, which Caroline puts down to ?online shopping and a lot more wine bottles!?Workshop Controller, Ricky Stretch has worked on the council fleet since SFS took over the contract in 2005. He has worked throughout the pandemic:?It was strange at the beginning as we had to carry on with the service and everyone else was in lockdown. It was eerily quiet on the industrial estate where the workshop is; like it is at Christmas.  We worked with the council to help find the best way to operate the service whilst keeping crew members safe. In the end it was decided that the most practical solution was to have more vehicles and reduce the crew members in the cab from the usual 3 people down to 2. We also took steps to finish the round as quickly as possible to minimise the amount of time staff spent together and get people back home.?Our municipal vehicle hire division, CTS Hire, was able to provide additional hire vehicles at short notice and the workshop team continued to carry out maintenance, fully supported by the  team at head office.   According to Ricky, the support from SFS  staff was excellent as was the support from the council and vehicle manufacturers such as Dennis Eagle who continued to provide spare parts for the vehicles.Ricky added: ?The weather was great during lock down and everyone seemed to be out gardening or sorting out cupboards, so we were definitely busier! There was a big upturn in demand for green waste collections as well as a lot more recycling and general waste. On the whole we?ve coped really well. Staff at the council have been fantastic keeping services running throughout. An area where we struggled was getting PPE equipment in particular sourcing gloves to wear in the workshop. We didn?t run out, but they were very difficult to get hold of.?In 2018 Hinckley & Bosworth Council carried out a comprehensive cost comparison and tender procurement process, awarding a third consecutive contract to SFS to renew and maintain its street cleansing, waste, recycling and grounds maintenance fleet.Caroline comments: ?Not only are we saving money by using contract hire we are really pleased to continue our relationship with SFS. We know we on them not just to keep our fleet running during normal times but also to step up in times in crisis to help us meet any unexpected challenges.  Their support has proved invaluable during the pandemic and in helping us adapt to the ?new normal?.  Looking further into the future we have a partnership that will ensure we are ready to meet any new developments, challenges and opportunities.? https://www.sfs.co.uk/A_steadfast_partnership_for_over_16_years--post--121.html 121 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/HBBC%20Cab%20Only%20Close%20Up%20LR.jpg 2020-09-21 00:00:00 1 A socially distanced Low Carbon Emissions Vehicle demonstration event hosted by Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) last month provided a unique opportunity to present the latest fleet technologies to council representatives.Contract hire and fleet management company, SFS runs a network of workshops as well as its own municipal vehicle hire division, CTS Hire, and has been delivering solutions to the public and private sector since 1992.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: ?There is increasing interest in low carbon emissions vehicles from our customers and we are working with them to help create cleaner, greener fleets. We arranged the event to give our customers, and neighbouring authorities, the opportunity to see for themselves the latest technology available in the marketplace, all in one place. We were delighted with the turnout, the support given by the manufacturers and the feedback has been extremely positive.?The two-day event took place during August at the Trucksmith Ltd commercial vehicle bodybuilder factory in Cullompton, Devon and featured an extensive range of low carbon emissions vehicles, plant and complementary technologies. These included: the eCollect electric RCV from Dennis Eagle; a range of electric vans from Renault; a 7.5t electric caged tipper from Paneltex; the eSwingo from Schmidt; the Maxus EV80 electric panel van from Acorn Trucks; the Iveco Daily CNG from Guest Trucks; an electric Telehandler, John Deere eGator and hand-held equipment supplied by Masons Kings; Geotab Telematics by LEVL; mobile fast charging solutions and Kempower product by Vital Power Ltd & Vital EV Solutions. Trucksmith also showcased an assortment of their own products tailored to Local Authority fleet applications.Each day was split into three sessions of 6 delegates to enable social distancing in line with current COVID-19 guidelines. Over 36 delegates attended in total, representing a wide number of councils including Mid-Devon, Exeter, Bath & North East Somerset, Teignbridge, Torridge, Somerset South, Somerset West and Taunton, Torbay, Bristol Waste, North Devon and Somerset Waste Partnership.All presentations were pre-recorded and shown inside a marquee with socially distanced seating. These offered delegates an impartial overview of the current market position and options regarding Low Carbon Emission vehicles. The virtual presenters were Stuart Noyce, Group Manager ? Street Scene and Open Spaces, Mid-Devon District Council; Paul Connor, Head of Tenders and Procurement, SFS; and Ian Featherstone and Richard Drew from the Energy Savings Trust.Delegates were then able to spend time with suppliers to find out more about their products, infrastructure and systems.Bob Sweetland: ?We started to plan a small forum-style low carbon vehicle technology demonstration session earlier this year but that was postponed due to lockdown. However, COVID-19 has not slowed the appetite for information on this key fleet topic. Working alongside Mid Devon District Council we highlighted the urgent need to showcase some of the available technologies and potential barriers to their implementation to key stakeholders from the council and neighbouring authorities. We managed to evolve arrangements, in line with ever-changing Government guidance, to deliver the sessions. The feedback has been so positive, not just from guests but also suppliers who are keen to support us with similar initiatives in the future.?For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601 or email info@sfs.co.ukENDS. https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_hosts_socially_distanced_Low_Carbon_Emissions_Vehicles_event--post--120.html 120 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/P1020876.jpg 2020-09-15 00:00:00 1 Picture caption  (L to R): Tim White, Fleet Operations Manager, SFS; Steve Riley Executive Director (Environment), Hyndburn Borough Council; and Michael Ainsworth, Transport Manager, Hyndburn Borough Council with the new fleet of vehiclesFive brand-new refuse trucks, all fitted with ultra-quiet, fuel-saving electric bin lifting technology have arrived at Hyndburn Borough Council this month.In December 2019, half of the Council?s waste and recycling fleet was written off after an arson attack. However, thanks to its 10-year+ relationship with contract hire and fleet management company Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS), temporary vehicles were supplied almost immediately via SFS? municipal vehicle hire division CTS Hire.Steve Riley, Executive Director (Environment) for Hyndburn Council said: ?The Council suffered an arson attack on its waste collection fleet early December last year, the upshot being half of its RCV?s had to be written off. However, due to our long-standing working partnership with SFS, they were able to source suitable replacement vehicles that started rolling in the following day. Collections teams and officers all worked extra hours that week, including the weekend, which enabled the service to catch up on all its domestic waste and recycling collections ready to start afresh the very next week. This was a fantastic team effort that I simply did not think possible on Tuesday morning when surveying the utter devastation?.This month SFS has provided Hyndburn with permanent replacement vehicles, comprising five brand-new Dennis Eagle Olympus 19 Elite 6 narrow track mid-lift 26 tonne refuse trucks with Terberg OMNIDEL Electric bin-lifts, VT 4 HD camera CCTV system, VT Banksman reversing system and VT Turnalarm system, with the Council adding further fuel management, vehicle tracking and crew CRM equipment after taking delivery.Michael Ainsworth, Transport Manager for Hyndburn Borough Council added: ?It is quite remarkable that SFS has managed to provide these new replacement vehicles so quickly, especially factoring in Christmas and the Covid-19 lockdown. The Council considers the environmental impacts of all replacement vehicles, even more so since declaring a Climate Emergency last year. So, we took the opportunity to specify electric bin-lifts, which are quieter, save fuel and reduce CO2 emissions. The lifters and frame have also been painted green to make them stand out and the Council has reinforced its environmental credentials through simple messages on the sides of the vehicles. The new trucks look extremely impressive, so much so that we are keeping the same specification for our next five replacements due in 2021?.Contract hire and fleet management company SFS has been providing vehicles to Hyndburn Borough Council since 2010. Established in 1992, SFS has a successful track record in delivering fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities and the private sector, and runs a network of workshops as well as operating its own municipal vehicle hire division, CTS Hire. Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: ?We are delighted that we were able to help Hyndburn in this very challenging situation, first by providing temporary hire vehicles and then by sourcing permanent replacement vehicles. As a reliable vehicle partner, we go to great lengths to support our local authority customers to help them deliver essential services to their local communities.?For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601 or  email info@sfs.co.ukENDS                                                                                        https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_to_the_rescue_following_Hyndburn_arson_attack--post--119.html 119 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Best%20Tim%20White%2C%20Fleet%20Operations%20Manager%2C%20SFS%3B%20Steve%20Riley%20Executive%20Director%20(Environment)%2C%20Hyndburn%20Borough%20Council%3B%20and%20Michael%20Ainsworth%2C%20Transport%20Manager%2C%20Hyndburn%20Borough%20Council%20.JPG 2020-09-11 00:00:00 1 One of the founding Business Partner members Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) has renewed its Affiliated Organisation membership with the Chartered Institute of Waste Management (CIWM) for the 8th year running, although the company has supported the Institute's activities for much longer.As a CIWM Affiliated Organisation SFS has signed up to a Code of Conduct, which includes maintaining high standards of professional expertise, operational and business practice, as well as complying with all relevant sector related legislation and regulations, and taking the lead in establishing best practice. Affiliate organisations are also required to share and contribute towards achieving the goals laid out in the CIWM's Royal Charter:?To advance for the public benefit the art and science of wastes management worldwide and so to promote education, the protection of public health and the preservation of the environment, and for that purpose to further promote and maintain good standards of practice, competence and conduct by all its members?.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: "We are delighted to be long-standing members of the CIWM and to have supported the Business Partner and Affiliate Organisations schemes since the very beginning. We share the Institute's commitment to high standards across every area of our business."ENDS. https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_Enters_8th_Year_As_CIWM_Business_Partners--post--118.html 118 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Affiliated_Organisation-2020%20logo).png 2020-08-13 00:00:00 1 First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO) is celebrating the arrival of brand new ?environmentally friendlier? vans provided by its vehicle partner, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS).The first set of new vehicles, which arrived at the housing association headquarters on Wednesday 22 July, have ?Ad Blue? technology to eliminate 99-9% of particulates making them kinder to the environment. The five-year contract with SFS comprises the provision and maintenance of approximately 90 vehicles to enable the Property and Neighbourhood Care teams to service over 11,000 houses across the borough. The remaining fleet is due to arrive by early 2021.A key feature of the contract is to support the local economy and a number of Oldham-based organisations are working with SFS and FCHO to deliver the contract.Dave Thomas, Head of Property Care at FCHO, said: ?Supporting the local economy is one of our priorities as an organisation and now more than ever, businesses need our support due to the impact of coronavirus.?The pandemic has hit many businesses extremely hard, so we?re making sure we?re using local suppliers wherever we can. We?ve developed great links with many Oldham-based companies over the years and we?re looking forward to furthering these positive working relationships with the arrival of our new fleet.?As well as this, our new fleet is much better for the environment, so it?s a win-win.?FCHO looks to renew their fleet every five years, with the most recent tender process occurring earlier this year. SFS were the successful winners for the fourth time running, providing a five-year contract hire package including full maintenance for each vehicle and proving to be the most cost-effective supplier time and time again.SFS has been delivering contract hire, fleet and workshop management solutions to the public and private sector since 1992. The company has a network of workshops and operates its own municipal vehicle hire division, CTS Hire. For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk.ENDS. https://www.sfs.co.uk/First_Choice_Homes_Oldhams_new_cleaner_fleet_supports_local_economy--post--117.html 117 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/(L-R)%20Operational%20Manager%20Property%20Care%2C%20Pat%20Godfrey%20and%20Facilities%20and%20Transport%20Manager%2C%20Steve%20Taylor.jpg 2020-07-23 00:00:00 1 Picture caption: Teignbridge RCV fitted with Bandvulc Wastemaster tyresThis year marks 26 years since contract hire and fleet management company Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) first joined forces with Bandvulc to supply and maintain tyres for its customers. Since then Bandvulc has become SFS? key tyre partner, working closely on many of its local authority contracts including Teignbridge District Council, Epsom and Ewell Borough Council, Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council and Lichfield District Council.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: ?The relationship with Bandvulc goes way back to the beginning and we engage with them right at the start of contract considerations because, alongside vehicle quality and maintenance, tyres are a major factor in both customer satisfaction and our own cost base.?We have a ?gold? package for Teignbridge and other customers, and that means they take 100% care of the monitoring, replacement and disposal of tyres on all vehicles, including dealing with any punctures or damage. It?s already costed into our customer package, so we can leave all the tyre management in their capable hands.?SFS has been delivering contract hire, fleet and workshop management solutions to the public and private sector since 1992. The company provides the full range of vehicles and plant solutions from short term vehicle hire to contract hire, and has a network of workshops as well as operating its own municipal hire division, CTS Hire.Bandvulc is a subsidiary of Continental, one of the world?s largest automotive companies, and operates a number of companies, which provide a whole life costs approach to fleet tyre management solutions including new tyres, retreads and casing services.Bob added: ?Bandvulc?s superior products and high service standards, combined with the ability to supply both new and retread tyres as required, makes them an outstanding partner.?Paul Searle, National Fleet Key Account Sales Manager, Bandvulc: ?We are delighted to be SFS? preferred tyre partner. Our relationship has been built on quality, trust and creating bespoke, cost effective and sustainable solutions for customers.?As part of the Continental Group we offer a comprehensive tyre portfolio, including our Bandvulc Wastemaster tyres, and a high standard of service through our extensive network. We look forward to working with SFS for another 26 years and developing products to meet the changing needs of the waste management sector, in particular electric and alternative fuelled vehicles.?For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.ukENDS                                                                             https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_Bandvulc_celebrate_26_year_gold_partnership--post--116.html 116 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Teignbridge%20RCV%20fitted%20with%20Bandvulc%20Wastemaster%20tyres.jpg 2020-06-16 00:00:00 1  First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO), which owns approximately 11,000 homes in the borough, has renewed its fourth consecutive contract with Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) for the provision of its fleet.The five-year contract comprises the provision of approximately 90 vehicles as well as fleet maintenance. This is the fourth time that SFS has been successful in winning the tender to manage the vehicle stock for the not-for-profit housing association.Dave Thomas,  Head of Property Care, FCHO said: “We invited both customers and colleagues from across the organisation to take part in scoring each bid, based on quality versus price, and SFS came out as number one. “We have been working with SFS for over 15 years and we are very happy with their high standard of service and professionalism. However, it is important that we continually strive for the best value for money. Therefore, we go out to tender at the end of each contract period to make sure we have the best deal the market-place can offer. Once again SFS has proven that they are most suited to our business needs and we look forward to continuing our long-standing relationship.”The vehicles, which are primarily Peugeot, will be used by FCHO cleansing staff, caretakers, and repairs operatives including roofers, plumbers and bricklayers.  To save costs the specialist racking installations managed by SFS during the previous contract will be transferred into the new vehicles.  Dave continued: “A particular benefit of this contract is flexibility. If we need to provide additional services, such as extending our grounds maintenance capabilities, SFS is able to provide the necessary vehicles.”The first tranche of vehicles comprising 11 Peugeot Expert Long vans are being delivered by the beginning of July and the remaining vehicles will follow over the next few months, subject to possible delays caused by the continuing impact of COVID-19.A KPI of the contract is to maximise local spend and, where possible, use local suppliers. In accordance with this, SFS has sourced local companies to assist with the provision and maintenance of vehicles. The vehicle livery will be carried out by Grlabels4signs and HTF Commercial Repairs   will be responsible for the repair and routine maintenance of the vehicles, supported by SFS engineers as necessary.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: “We are very pleased to have retained FCHO as customers for a fourth term. We invest a great deal of time and resources into understanding our customers’ operations and their individual requirements. We look forward to continuing to help FCHO maintain their high standard of housing stock.”As well as being committed to giving its customers the highest possible quality of service, FCHO supports the wider community of Oldham, through funding opportunities for events and projects, as well as initiatives focused on employment, skills and reducing poverty. SFS has been delivering contract hire, fleet and workshop management solutions to the public and private sector since 1992. The company has a network of workshops and operates its own municipal vehicle hire division, CTS Hire.  SFS can provide the full range of vehicle and plant solutions from short term vehicle hire to contract hire, with the ability to meet the most complex fleet requirements.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.ukSFS on social media: Facebook - @SpecialistFleetServices; Twitter - @SpecialistFleet ENDS                                                                                         https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_First_Choice_for_a_fourth_time_in_Oldham--post--115.html 115 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/FCHO%20HQ%202020.jpeg 2020-05-28 00:00:00 1 Contract hire and fleet management company, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) has appointed Jeff Bennett as Southern Regional Operations Manager, to look after its growing customer base in the area, including the joint contract with Mid-Devon District Council and Exeter City Council.Jeff has 14-years experience in commercial vehicle contract hire and workshop management:“I started out as an apprentice mechanic and worked my way up the ranks to manage a team of technicians before becoming a service manager for a commercial HGV and bus dealership. My last role prior to joining SFS was Operations Director for a national contract hire and rental company.”“When I came across the position at SFS I knew it was a good fit for my particular skillset and experience. I am also really looking forward to getting to know a different sector. It’s a challenging, interesting role and something I can get my teeth into.”Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: “Jeff is a very welcome addition to the team and he is already doing a great job looking after our customers in the South, making sure they are happy and everything is running smoothly.”A local authority specialist SFS is well established in the waste management sector and has been delivering contract hire, fleet and workshop management solutions to the public and private sector since 1992. The company, which has an enviable customer retention record, has a network of workshops and operates its own municipal vehicle hire division, CTS Hire.SFS can provide the full range of vehicle and plant solutions from short term vehicle hire to contract hire, with the ability to meet the most complex fleet requirements.Customers include Kettering Borough Council, Corby Borough Council, Hambleton District Council, Teignbridge District Council, Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council, Epsom and Ewell Borough Council, Caerphilly County Borough Council and Lichfield & Tamworth Joint Waste Service.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk; visit www.sfs.co.ukSFS on social media: Facebook - @SpecialistFleetServices; Twitter - @SpecialistFleetENDS.                                                                                           https://www.sfs.co.uk/New_operations_appointment_at_SFS--post--114.html 114 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Jeff%20Bennett%20%20SFS.jpg 2020-05-07 00:00:00 1 Runnymede Borough Council has announced the award of a 5-year contract to maintain its fleet of over 80 vehicles, to Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS).Runnymede is the third council in Surrey to switch to SFS, following the award of a 10-year contract for fleet and maintenance provision at Epsom & Ewell Borough Council in 2017 and a 6-year fleet replacement and workshop management contract by Spelthorne during the same year.Shaun Barnes, Depot Manager, Runnymede Borough Council: “SFS won the tender based on quality and price, and we are confident they will deliver an excellent standard of service. They come very highly recommended by neighbouring Surrey councils, Epsom & Ewell and Spelthorne.”The fleet comprises a wide range of vehicles and plant including Refuse Collection Vehicles (RCVs), minibuses for community transport such as meals on wheels, and street cleansing vans. The two full-time engineers who man the council’s workshop have been TUPE transferred across to SFS.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: “We are very pleased to work with Runnymede and to be extending our customer base in Surrey. As well as maintaining the vehicle fleet we will enhance the workshop facilities and keep staff fully trained to ensure the fleet is kept running smoothly to deliver essential council services.”In April this year the council is refreshing its fleet with nine brand-new refuse collection vehicles, comprising five 26t and three 23t Dennis Eagle Olympus on Dennis Elite chassis all equipped with Terberg OmniDeka bin lifts.SFS has been delivering contract hire, fleet and workshop management solutions to the public and private sector since 1992. With a network of workshops and its own municipal vehicle hire division, CTS Hire, SFS can provide the full range of vehicle and plant solutions from short-term vehicle hire to contract hire, with the ability to meet the most complex fleet requirements.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.ukSFS on social media: Facebook - @SpecialistFleetServices; Twitter - @SpecialistFleetENDS.                                                                    https://www.sfs.co.uk/Runnymede_puts_fleet_in_SFS_hands--post--113.html 113 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Runnymede%20workshop.jpg 2020-04-08 00:00:00 1 THIS month Exeter City Council welcomes its first delivery of new refuse vehicles as part of a new 7-year fleet contract hire agreement with Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS).The contract, which could be extended for another 7 years, encompasses the provision and maintenance of approximately 210 vehicles ranging from 26t refuse vehicles, sweepers, hook loaders, and tippers to vans, cars, telehandlers and grounds maintenance equipment. The new fleet includes a number of electric vehicles.The first lot of new vehicles comprise seven 26t Dennis Eagle refuse vehicles with the latest Euro 6 low emission engines and fitted with reverse radar, and 360-degree camera systems. The ultra-safe vehicles are also equipped with cyclist detection and warning technology, and auto-braking systems, from Vision Techniques.  The council has also taken delivery of a Kramer telehandler and a Hako compact sweeper.Simon Hill, Service Manager – Recycling, Waste and Fleet, Exeter City Council: “The contract with SFS is allowing us to speed up the replacement of our older vehicles and introduce the latest models, which have a higher level of emission control and are equipped with the latest safety technology. SFS have also provided us with more electric vans and cars, so we now have over a dozen electric vehicles on our fleet. In the future, when the technology is properly tried and tested, we hope to be able to introduce electric refuse vehicles to the fleet.”Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: “These vehicles will not only enhance the efficiency of collections across Exeter, they are also cleaner and safer. We will be delivering further vehicles over the term of the contract as existing vehicles are due for replacement.”Exeter City Council, which uses the BARTEC Auto ID system to schedule and manage commercial waste collections, has fitted bin-weighing equipment to five of the new refuse vehicles. This will enable the authority to analyse each collection, plan rounds more efficiently and determine costs more accurately.  The weighing equipment is a particularly helpful tool for managing the manual handling of heavy bins, monitoring crews’ workloads and alleviating the risk of injury.Simon Hill added: “We’ve been using BARTEC for a few years to help us organise collection rounds and track progress but the bin-weighing adds a vital layer of measurement to help us protect our staff, analyse costs in more detail and inform our commercial pricing strategy.”SFS has been delivering contract hire, fleet and workshop management solutions to the public and private sector since 1992. With a network of workshops and its own municipal vehicle hire division (CTS Hire), SFS can provide the full range of vehicle and plant solutions from short-term vehicle hire to meeting the most complex fleet requirements.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601 or email info@sfs.co.uk.ENDS.                                                                                         https://www.sfs.co.uk/Exeter_City_Council_Upgrades_Fleet_With_Latest_Vehicles_And_Technology--post--112.html 112 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Simon%20Hill%20Exeter%20CC%20with%20new%20RCV%20Fleet%20Nov%2019%20BEST.jpg 2019-11-20 00:00:00 1 SFS has been awarded onto the Specialist Vehicles Framework (960) by the Yorkshire Purchasing Organisation (YPO). The framework covers the supply of purchase, hire and lease of specialist vehicles and associated services, which will cover vehicles from 3.5t and over in weight including refuse collection & waste management vehicles, road sweepers, winter maintenance vehicles, tractor units, trailer units, coaches, buses, gritters, tippers and emergency services vehicles.The framework can be accessed by all public sector bodies including local authorities, NHS, Housing Associations, Education establishments and bluelight services.YPO supplies products and services to a wide range of customers including schools, local authorities, charities, emergency services, public sector, and other businesses such as nurseries and care homes. YPO is 100% publicy owned by 13 local authorities, which means the profits are returned to public sector customers to deliver better value for money.ENDS. https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_awarded_onto_YPO_Specialist_Vehicles_Framework--post--111.html 111 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/YPO%20Logo.jpg 2019-10-22 00:00:00 1 Hambleton District Council is introducing new electric vehicles to replace its conventional fuel vans, with a view to moving to a 100% electric fleet in the future.The two brand-new Nissan eNV200 vehicles were delivered in September and will be carrying out a range of services including the enforcement of fly-tipping, waste management, and street cleansing. They were supplied by the council?s vehicle partner, contract hire and fleet management company, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS), as part of a 10-year contract signed in 2016 to supply and maintain the council?s waste, recycling and street cleansing fleet.Stephen Watson, Portfolio Holder for Environmental Health, Waste and Recycling, said: "Technology has improved significantly in recent years, enabling us to enter into an agreement that can provide us with electric vehicles with a vision of running a 100% electric fleet in the future. If we want to encourage residents to be more mindful of the effects their own vehicles have on our local environment, then it's right that we look at our own fleet and do something about it.?We would hope that other organisations and individuals would think about how they too can contribute to the transition from fossil fuels to alternative forms of transport. We should all recognise the importance of reducing our dependence on fossil fuels and minimising climate change. These vehicles give us the opportunity to show how we can tackle emissions from the mileage our staff need to do to provide services across the district and I look forward to watching how this progress.?Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: ?We are delighted to be able to introduce the latest electric vehicle technology to the Hambleton District and excited to be able to help the council move towards its vision of a 100% electric fleet.?For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.ukSFS on social media: Facebook - @SpecialistFleetServices; Twitter - @SpecialistFleetENDS.                                                                                           https://www.sfs.co.uk/Electrifying_news_in_Hambleton--post--110.html 110 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/LtoR%3A%20Cllr%20Stephen%20Watson%2C%20Portfolio%20Holder%20for%20Environmental%20Health%2C%20Waste%20and%20Recycling%3B%20Tim%20White%2C%20Fleet%20Operations%20Manager%2C%20SFS%20with%20the%20new%20Hambleton%20District%20Council%20electric%20vans%20Oct%202019.JPG 2019-10-15 00:00:00 1 THIS month a new fleet of refuse vehicles is arriving at Mid-Devon District Council (MDDC) courtesy of Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS), who was awarded the seven-year contract for the provision and maintenance of over 210 vehicles following a joint tender process by MDDC and Exeter City Council.The first tranche of new vehicles includes four Euro 6 26T Dennis Elite 6 Narrow Refuse Collection Vehicles, which comply with the latest low emission standards and have been designed for operation in built-up urban areas as well as narrow access roads and country lanes. Following a successful trial, MDDC also selected a Kramer KT 407 Telehandler from plant equipment specialists Masons Kings primarily due to the performance and drivability of its hydrostatic transmission.Cllr Luke Taylor, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for the Environment, Mid-Devon District Council said: ”The contract with SFS is not only better value for money but much simpler. By reducing the vehicle costs for the council we can continue to provide excellent services such as waste and recycling collections for our local residents.”The contract for Mid-Devon District Council commenced on 3 June 2019 and over the course of the contract, SFS will be providing a range of vehicles including Refuse Collection Vehicles (RCVs), recycling vehicles, sweepers, hook loaders, tippers, vans, cars, and grounds maintenance equipment. The council will also be trialing electric vans and cars to supersede vehicles due to be replaced in the future.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: “These are the first in a wide range of new, latest technology vehicles, being introduced into Mid-Devon to deliver an enhanced waste and recycling collection, and grounds maintenance service. We are working closely with the council to deliver cost savings whilst maintaining a younger, lower-emissions fleet.”SFS has been delivering contract hire, fleet and workshop management solutions to the public and private sector since 1992. With a network of workshops and its own municipal vehicle hire division (CTS Hire), SFS can provide the full range of vehicle and plant solutions from short-term vehicle hire to meeting the most complex fleet requirements.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.ukSFS on social media: Facebook - @SpecialistFleetServices; Twitter - @SpecialistFleetENDS.                                                                https://www.sfs.co.uk/New_fleet_starts_to_arrive_at_MidDevon_District_Council--post--109.html 109 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/IMG_9719.jpg 2019-09-26 00:00:00 1 With pic: (Left to right) Cllr Bob Deed, Leader, Mid Devon District Council; Stuart Noyce, Group Manager Street Scene and Open Spaces, Mid Devon District Council; Bob Sweetland Managing Director, SFS; Paul Connor, Head of Tenders and Procurement,  SFS; Simon Hill, Service Manager – Recycling, Waste and Fleet, Exeter City CouncilFor the first time, Mid-Devon District Council (MDDC) and Exeter City Council (ECC) have joined together to source their vehicle fleets. Following a comprehensive tender process, both councils opted to award the seven-year contract (with a possible 7-year extension) for the provision and maintenance of approximately 210 vehicles, to contract hire and fleet management company, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS).Stuart Noyce, Group Manager, Street Scene and Open Spaces, Mid-Devon District Council: “Previously we purchased our vehicles outright and outsourced the maintenance from a number of suppliers. The contract with SFS is not only better value for money but much simpler. We have a fixed price with no unexpected costs, which is much better for budgeting, and one point of contact for maintenance. There are many additional advantages as a result of this increased harmonisation with Exeter City Council such as the ability to share equipment, carry out joint training and use each other’s depots to park vehicles.”Simon Hill, Service Lead for Fleet, Exeter City Council: “During this tender process we compared the costs of contract hire alongside our existing method of fleet procurement. The results showed that by contract hiring the vehicles with SFS we will make a saving over the lifetime of the vehicles and also speed up the replacement of older parts of the fleet with newer, lower-emission vehicles from year one of the contract .”The contract for Mid-Devon District Council commenced on 3 June 2019 and the contract for Exeter City Council started on 1 July 2019. SFS will be providing a range of vehicles including Refuse Collection Vehicles (RCVs), recycling vehicles, sweepers, hook loaders, tippers, vans, cars, telehandlers and grounds maintenance equipment. The new fleet will include a number of electric vans and cars, and the refuse vehicles will be fitted with the latest safety features including reverse radars, cyclist safety equipment and camera systems.SFS has appointed local suppliers, Trucksmith Ltd and Masons Kings Ltd, to support the provision of maintenance services for the MDDC contract and SHB Hire Ltd and Masons Kings Ltd will be supporting the ECC contract.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: “We are thrilled to have been selected as vehicle partner by both authorities and we look forward to delivering and maintaining an efficient, cost-effective fleet. We will be introducing cleaner, greener vehicles, with the first units due in September.”SFS has been delivering contract hire, fleet and workshop management solutions to the public and private sector since 1992. With a network of workshops and its own municipal vehicle hire division (CTS Hire), SFS can provide the full range of vehicle and plant solutions from short-term vehicle hire to meeting the most complex fleet requirements.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.ukSFS is on social media: Facebook - @SpecialistFleetServices; Twitter - @SpecialistFleetENDS.                                         https://www.sfs.co.uk/Joint_fleet_provision_for_Mid_Devon_District_Council_and_Exeter_City_Council--post--108.html 108 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/New%20Fleet%20Launch%20%20-%20Mid%20Devon%20DC%2C%20SFS%20and%20Exeter%20City%20Council%20(with%20EV).jpg 2019-07-11 00:00:00 1 Specialist Fleet Services Ltd has been awarded a place on the National Procurement Service (NPS) All Wales Framework Agreement to provide vehicle contract hire to the Welsh Public Sector.The framework agreement is available for use across Wales by any public sector body including local authorities, higher & further education bodies, police & emergency services, NHS, Welsh Government, Housing Associations and sponsored bodies such as the Arts Council for Wales. The role of the NPS is to collaborate with public organisations and use collective buying power to get a good deal for Wales. The procurement frameworks always comply with Welsh legislation and policy, and the NPS prides itself on being easy to work with, business-like and fair.SFS has been delivering contract hire, fleet and workshop management solutions to the public and private sector since 1992. With a network of workshops and its own municipal vehicle hire division (CTS Hire), SFS can provide the full range of vehicle and plant solutions from short-term vehicle hire to meeting the most complex fleet requirements.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS:“We are delighted to be part of the NPS framework and hope this will make us more readily accessible to our customer base in Wales. Our aims are very much in line with the NPS and we always strive to deliver cost efficiencies, add value and enhance front line services.”For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk;SFS on social media: Facebook - @SpecialistFleetServices; Twitter - @SpecialistFleet ENDS.                                                                                      https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_is_awarded_a_place_on_Welsh_public_sector_procurement_framework--post--107.html 107 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/NPS%20Logo%20Landscape%20(1).jpg 2019-07-04 00:00:00 1 Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS), has been named as a supplier on Lot 2 of the Crown Commercial Service’s (CCS) Vehicle Lease, Fleet Management and Flexible Rental Solutions framework. Lot 2 is for the supply of commercial vehicles and related lease management services.The framework is free to use for public sector organisations and enables them to lease and manage fleets of vehicles, including associated services such as service, maintenance and repair.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: “CCS is the biggest procurement organisation in the UK, and we are thrilled to be a named supplier. We work closely with many local authorities in the UK and we are keen to take any measures that add value, increase efficiency and save time or money.  The CCS offers a free service to public sector organisations and buying through them simplifies the process as they already comply with procurement regulations.”Crown Commercial Service (CCS) supports the public sector to achieve maximum commercial value when procuring common goods and services. In 2017/18, CCS delivered £354 million in commercial benefits including savings for central government, and £247m for the wider public sector – helping to deliver world-class public services that offer best value for taxpayers.SFS has been delivering contract hire services to the public and private sector since 1992. With a network of workshops and its own municipal vehicle hire division (CTS Hire), SFS can provide the full range of vehicle and plant solutions from short-term vehicle hire to meeting the most complex fleet requirements.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601 or email: info@sfs.co.ukSFS on social media: Facebook - @SpecialistFleetServices; Twitter - @SpecialistFleetENDS.                 Note to EditorsAbout Crown Commercial Services (CCS)Crown Commercial Services (CCS) is an Executive Agency of the Cabinet Office, supporting the public sector to achieve maximum commercial value when procuring common goods and services.To find out more about CCS, visit www.gov.uk/ccsFollow us on Twitter @gov_procurement and onLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/government-procurement-service https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_announced_as_CCS_supplier--post--106.html 106 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/CCS_2935_Supplier_AW_300dpi.jpg 2019-06-05 00:00:00 1 Picture caption: L to R ? Lynne Spencer, Fleet Administration Manager, Kettering Borough Council with Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFSA brand-new fleet of over 35 vehicles has arrived at Kettering Borough Council, to carry out waste, recycling, grounds and cleansing works as part of the new shared service with Corby Borough Council.A combination of refuse trucks, specialist recycling vehicles, sweepers, tipper trucks and transit vans, the vehicles were delivered by contract hire and fleet management company, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS), ready for the February contract start. SFS will also continue to maintain the vehicles and manage the councils? workshops.SFS has been Kettering Borough Council?s vehicle partner for over 15 years providing vehicles, maintenance and workshop management services, and their contract was recently extended for a further 7 years.Brendan Coleman, Head of Environmental Care, Kettering Borough Council: ?The new vehicles look great in our new joint livery. SFS have been instrumental in helping us to select fit for purpose vehicles, equipped with the latest safety technology, to help us deliver the best possible service to residents across both Boroughs.?Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: ?We are delighted to be working with both Kettering and Corby Borough Councils. The new vehicles will help to deliver a more efficient, improved service.?SFS has been delivering contract hire, fleet and workshop management solutions to the public and private sector since 1992. With a network of workshops and its own municipal vehicle hire division (CTS Hire), SFS can provide the full range of vehicle and plant solutions from short-term vehicle hire to meeting the most complex fleet requirements. ENDS.                  https://www.sfs.co.uk/New_Waste_And_Recycling_Fleet_Arrives_For_Kettering_Corby--post--105.html 105 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Lynne%20Spencer%2C%20Kettering%20BC%20with%20Bob%20Sweetland%2C%20SFS%20various%20vehicles.jpg 2019-03-12 00:00:00 1 Contract hire and fleet management company, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS), has expanded its procurement team with the appointment of Darren Wade as Technical Specialist.Darren started his career as a mechanical engineering apprentice with Fraikin and spent 28 years working across every area of the business:“It’s an exciting time to be in the industry with new challenges in the form of new legislation and technology. SFS has an excellent reputation and the team here go to great lengths to guide customers and create truly bespoke solutions.  I already feel very much at home.”Darren will be based at SFS’ Headquarters in Northampton, working on the pricing of new tenders and advising customers on the best vehicle, equipment and maintenance solutions.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: “Darren has excellent credentials and will be a great asset to the team.”Visit SFS on Stand L5 at Letsrecyclelive 22-23 May at the NAEC, Stoneleigh, WarwickshireENDS.                                                                     https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_Expands_Procurement_Team--post--104.html 104 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/DW%20pic%20cropped.JPG 2019-02-19 00:00:00 1 Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS), is exhibiting at Letsrecyclelive on 22 -23 May at the NAEC in Stoneleigh, Warwickshire. SFS is accompanied by its municipal vehicle hire division, CTS Hire.SFS runs a network of workshops and has been delivering contract hire, fleet and workshop management solutions to the public and private sector since 1992.  Together SFS and CTS Hire are equipped to provide every level of fleet solution from short-term vehicle hire to longer term, more complex fleet provision including vehicle maintenance and workshop management.Testament to its successful track record in customer retention SFS was recently awarded a new 7-year contract with Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council with whom they have been the incumbent supplier for over 13 years. Kettering Borough Council, which has now merged services with Corby Borough Council and has been an SFS customer for over 15 years, has also extended its current contract for a further 9 years.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: “We provide a joined-up service that keeps everything under one roof and means we can offer our customers a comprehensive and flexible range of vehicle hire, fleet and maintenance solutions.  Exhibiting at Letsrecyclelive will provide us with an excellent opportunity to talk to prospective customers and network with our industry colleagues.”The stand will also have one of CTS Hire’s latest vehicles on display, a brand-new Dennis Eagle 26T rear-steer Olympus Twin-pack, part of the company’s ongoing investment into new vehicle stock. All new CTS Hire vehicles are fitted with a live camera system to enable real-time monitoring.ENDS.                                                              https://www.sfs.co.uk/Vehicle_partners_you_can_rely_on_at_Letsrecyclelive--post--103.html 103 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/RCV%20Line%20Up%20HBBC%2011%2B%20vehicles.jpg 2019-02-05 00:00:00 1 Kettering Borough Council and Corby Borough Council are merging their waste, recycling, grounds and cleansing services to residents, starting with the procurement of a new fleet of vehicles, due for delivery on 2 February 2019.As part of the merger, Corby’s current service, which has been outsourced for over ten years, will be brought back in-house.  Kettering will be the lead authority for the new shared service.Brendan Coleman, Head of Environmental Care, Kettering Borough Council:“Merging our services in this way means that we can share resources and ultimately provide better value for money to local residents across both areas.  We are confident that the implementation of a new, fit for purpose fleet, in Corby will lead to immediate service improvements in the area.”Contract hire and fleet management company Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS), will be providing the new fleet, which comprises 35 vehicles including refuse trucks, recycling vehicles, sweepers, tipper trucks and transit vans.SFS has been Kettering Borough Council’s vehicle partner for over 15 years and is now set to continue working with the Authority for an additional 9 years. There are two years remaining on the current 7-year contract, which comprises vehicle provision, maintenance and workshop management, and this has been extended for a further 7 years.Brendan Coleman added:“We have been working with SFS for many years and they have always impressed us with their responsiveness and professionalism. They have the right combination of expertise in vehicle provision, maintenance and workshop management, and they have consistently provided us with cost and efficiency savings.  We look forward to continuing our excellent working relationship.”Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS:“It’s fantastic news that Kettering BC has extended its contract with us; the fourth time it has done so since we started working together.  We look forward to working with both councils to help them optimise their fleet to deliver the best possible services to residents.”SFS has been delivering contract hire, fleet and workshop management solutions to the public and private sector since 1992. With a network of workshops and its own municipal vehicle hire division (CTS Hire), SFS can provide the full range of vehicle and plant solutions from short-term vehicle hire to meeting the most complex fleet requirements.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk; visit www.sfs.co.ukSFS on social media: Facebook - @SpecialistFleetServices; Twitter - @SpecialistFleetENDS.                                                                                https://www.sfs.co.uk/Kettering_Corby_Borough_Councils_Merge_Waste_Recycling_Grounds_and_Cleansing_Services--post--102.html 102 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/IMG_4688.jpg 2018-11-27 00:00:00 1 Specialist Fleet Services(SFS) is offering three apprenticeship roles with hands-on training in its fleet servicing workshops amid a shortage of skilled technicians in the industry.The Northampton-based contract hire and fleet management company runs workshops on behalf of local authorities and has a network of engineers and technicians to support its customers? fleets and keep them running smoothly.SFS currently has vacancies for a Commercial Vehicle Apprentice Technician in each of its three workshops at Kettering, Brackley in Northamptonshire and Hinckley in Leicestershire.The apprentices will have the chance to gain a NVQ Level 3 in Heavy Vehicle Mechanics and become a workplace technician, trained in all aspects of vehicle maintenance and repairs on HGV and light commercial vehicles.It will equip them with the ability to inspect, maintain and repair vehicles - from a 32-tonne refuse lorry to a lawnmower - to ensure roadworthiness.Mark Kellett, who started his career as an apprentice mechanic in 1990 and is now Head of Engineering at SFS, said: ?There is a huge shortage of skilled technicians in this field, so these roles are like gold dust at the moment. This is a promising career to go into as the industry will always need these technicians.?Apprenticeships offer great opportunities for young people. I myself was one in 1990 as an apprentice mechanic and it set me up for a long and successful career. I?m now in charge of engineering at SFS.?These apprenticeships would suit school-leavers who don?t mind working with their hands, being a problem solver and using technical pieces of equipment. We will train them in everything they need to do the job well.?Located in Northampton, with our own on-site workshop, we provide contract hire and vehicle leasing solutions to the private and public sector along with comprehensive fleet management and workshop expertise. As well as running workshops.SFS is part of the Asset Finance business at Paragon Bank, which is a keen supporter of apprenticeship schemes along with being an Investors in People champion and accredited as a Living Wage Employer by the Living Wage Foundation.Anyone interested in applying for one of the apprenticeships, should visit https://www.paragonbankinggroup.co.uk/careers/vacancies/commercial-vehicle-apprentice-technicianFor more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk; visit www.sfs.co.uk; Facebook @SpecialistFleetServices;  Twitter @SpecialistFleetENDS.                                                                                                    https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_Search_For_Apprentices_To_Boost_Skilled_Workforce--post--101.html 101 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/SFS%20team%20workshop.jpg 2018-10-30 00:00:00 1 With pic L to R: Tim White, Fleet Operations Manager, SFS; Caroline Roffey, Head of Street Scene Services, HBBC; Darren Moore, Business Development & Waste Manager, HBBC; and Cllr Mark Nickerson, Executive Member for Neighbourhood Services, HBBC.A brand-new fleet of waste and recycling vehicles has been delivered to Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council and is already carrying out collections as part of a seamless changeover from the old fleet.Caroline Roffey, Head of Street Scene Services, Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council said: ?There has been a smooth transition, thanks to our service provider, which has meant there has been no disruption to services.?The new fleet of 20 vehicles comprises a combination of refuse collection vehicles, recycling collection vehicles, sweepers, box vans and a hook lift. The council awarded the 7-year contract hire agreement to Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) earlier this year, following a comprehensive tender procurement process, which compared contract hire with outright purchase. The results showed contract hire to be most cost and risk effective.Caroline commented: ?We have been working with SFS for over 14 years so we are delighted to continue our excellent working relationship. The team at SFS have provided continual support and advice to ensure that every vehicle specification meets both our requirements and budget.?Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: ?We are delighted the vehicle switch over has gone smoothly and to have retained Hinckley & Bosworth as one of our most long-standing customers. Minimising any disruption to frontline services is a key priority for us, not just at the start but for the entire duration of the contract.?The council took the decision to bring its dry recycling service back in house earlier this year and has been collecting co-mingled recyclable from local households since 1 April. SFS? municipal vehicle hire division, CTS,  provided 5 brand new temporary recycling vehicles, to deliver the new service during the interim period prior to the contract start date.Cllr Mark Nickerson, Executive Member for Neighbourhood Services at Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council: ?Our youngest vehicles were seven years old and older vehicles were unreliable and becoming expensive to maintain. The new fleet provided by SFS will decrease our maintenance costs and increase the reliability of our services. All the vehicles are on contact hire, which proved to be the most cost and risk effective solution.  As well as improving efficiency, our Refuse trucks now all have Euro 6 engines and extra protection for cyclists, reducing our emissions and making them safer for other road users.The new fleet is the latest in a series of improvements we?ve made to bin collections this year.  In the spring we reorganised the collection rounds to improve the overall efficiency of the waste and recycling collection service, with rounds redrawn to reflect new homes built around the borough since the last time rounds were reviewed nine years ago. Thanks to the team, this huge change affecting some 49,000 households, was planned and completed with the minimum of fuss and disruption to our residents.?SFS has been delivering contract hire, fleet and workshop management solutions to the public and private sector since 1992. With a network of workshops and its own municipal vehicle hire division (CTS Hire), SFS can provide the full range of vehicle and plant solutions from short-term vehicle hire to meeting the most complex fleet requirements. For more information about Specialist Fleet Services or CTS Municipal Vehicle Hire: tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk; visit www.sfs.co.uk or www.ctshire.co.uk; Facebook @SpecialistFleetServices;  Twitter @SpecialistFleetENDS.                                                                                    https://www.sfs.co.uk/Seamless_Transition_From_Old_To_New_At_Hinckley_Bosworth--post--100.html 100 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/L%20To%20R-%20Tim%20White%2C%20Caroline%20Roffey%2C%20Darren%20Moore%20and%20Cllr%20Nickerson%2C%20Hinckley%20%26%20Bosworth%20BC.jpg 2018-10-03 00:00:00 1 Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council have opted for contract hire rather than outright purchase to replace their waste and recycling fleet, following a comprehensive cost comparison and tender procurement process.Caroline Roffey, Head of Street Scene Services, Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council said: ?When we compared contract hire with the outright purchase of vehicles, contract hire proved to be the cheapest and most cost/risk-effective solution.?The incumbent supplier, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) was successful in delivering the winning bid, which was based primarily on price. The new 7-year contract starts on 1 September and comprises the provision of 20 vehicles, including Refuse Collection Vehicles, sweepers, hook loaders and box vans. SFS will continue to maintain the vehicles at the council?s depot in Hinckley.Continued Caroline: ?Not only are we saving money by using contract hire we are really pleased to be continuing our relationship with SFS. We have been working with them for over 14 years and I have no concerns at all that we will continue to receive an excellent standard of service.?The council used to outsource its dry recycling service but has decided to bring it back in-house. From 1 April 2018 the council will be collecting co-mingled recyclables from local households.Caroline said: ?The new service will be easier for residents. We are changing to fully co-mingled, instead of dual stream, using the same blue lidded bins. We plan to change the rounds to increase efficiency and will be adding an extra round due to housing growth. We have experienced a 11% increase in properties in the past 7 years.?SFS is helping the council through interim arrangements including the provision of 5 brand new recycling vehicles, via its municipal vehicle hire division CTS Hire.Caroline added: ?We are very grateful to SFS who are supporting us with the launch of our new recycling service in April before the contract starts in September. Their expertise, both in the workshop and from their Head Office, helps us to deliver a high-quality service. The hire vehicles are exactly the same specification as the new fleet so there will be a smooth transition when the new vehicles arrive.?SFS has been delivering contract hire, fleet and workshop management solutions to the public and private sector since 1992. With a network of workshops and its own municipal vehicle hire division (CTS Hire), SFS can provide the full range of vehicle and plant solutions from short-term vehicle hire to meeting the most complex fleet requirements. Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: ?We are thrilled to be retaining Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council. They are a valued customer and this contract is an excellent demonstration of how we work with local authorities, including assisting them through the sometimes difficult transition period between contracts. With the additional support of our hire division, CTS, we are well equipped to find a suitable and flexible solution.?For more information about Specialist Fleet Services or CTS Municipal Vehicle Hire: tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk; visit www.sfs.co.uk or www.ctshire.co.ukENDS. https://www.sfs.co.uk/Contract_Hire_Most_Cost_and_Risk_Effective_For_Hinckley_Bosworth--post--98.html 98 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/rsz_1rsz_1rsz_hinckley_current_fleet_2018%20(1).jpg 2018-03-20 00:00:00 1 Northampton Partnership Homes (NPH) has recently updated its fleet, making savings in the process.NPH is an arms-length management organisation (ALMO) that manages Northampton Borough Council?s housing services, including repairs and maintenance, tenancy support, allocations and lettings.Following a tender procurement exercise for the replacement of its current fleet, NPH awarded the five-year contract to Northampton-based contract hire and fleet management company, Specialist Fleet Services (SFS). SFS was already the incumbent supplier having just completed a 4-year contract for NPH.As part of the tender specification NPH required bidding parties to include the utilisation of existing vehicle racking systems, from System Edström, within the new fleet.Lee Burdett, Property Maintenance Manager, Northampton Partnership Homes, said:?We invested in really good quality vehicle racking as part of our previous vehicle procurement and it has really paid off.  The equipment is still in excellent condition and has been successfully retrofitted into the new vehicles, saving us a considerable amount of money.?Lee continued: ?We are pleased to be working with SFS again. They?re a local company who provide a good service. We also have the added benefits of a dedicated contract manager,,as well as access to their Fleetwave management software system to allow for automated scheduling servicing and inspections of our fleet.NPH has purchased 52 new vehicles, mostly new model Citroen Despatch vans and Fuso Canter caged tippers, to service over 11800 properties, which it manages on behalf of Northampton Borough Council.SFS has been delivering contract hire, fleet and workshop management solutions to the public and private sector since 1992. With a network of workshops and its own municipal vehicle hire division (CTS), SFS can provide the full range of vehicle and plant solutions from short-term vehicle hire to meeting the most complex fleet requirements. Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: ?We have a long-standing relationship with NPH and we are pleased to have been successful in retaining them as a customer following the tender process.?For more information about Specialist Fleet Services or CTS Municipal Vehicle Hire: tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk; visit www.sfs.co.uk or www.ctshire.co.ukENDS.                                                                  https://www.sfs.co.uk/Northampton_Partnership_Homes_Saves_On_New_Fleet--post--97.html 97 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/NPH_pic_1.jpg 2017-11-08 00:00:00 1 Contract hire and fleet management company, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS), has appointed Mark Kellett as Head of Engineering.Mark, who was Head of Engineering at Fraikin before joining SFS, is over-seeing the day to day operational side of the business including the management of SFS in-house workshops and those of its municipal hire division CTS Hire. Mark will also ensure best practice is followed throughout third-party and SFS customers? workshop facilities.Mark Kellett said: ?I?m enjoying this new challenge. I have over 27 years? experience gained in contract hire and fleet management, and worked my way up through the ranks from an apprentice mechanic to senior management.  I will be using my knowledge and skills to enhance and improve the operational side of SFS?s activities.?Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: ?We are delighted to welcome Mark to the team. His skills and experience will be put to good use across the operational areas of our businesses.?For more information about Specialist Fleet Services or CTS Municipal Vehicle Hire: tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk; visit www.sfs.co.uk or www.ctshire.co.ukENDS.                                                                   https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_Appoints_Head_of_Engineering--post--96.html 96 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Mark_Kellett.jpg 2017-10-30 00:00:00 1 Picture caption: Jon Sharpe,Epsom & Ewell Borough Council (EEBC); Amanda Brown, SFS; and Cllr Beckett EEBCEpsom & Ewell Borough Council have completed the successful roll-out of their new Simply Weekly Recycling service with new vehicles provided by Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS).In February this year SFS won the 10-year contract to provide 75 vehicles, including 12 Refuse Collection Vehicles, minibuses, tippers and sweepers, as well as manage the council’s workshops and maintain the vehicles. The new standardised fleet is more cost effective as vehicles are interchangeable and multi-functional. Previous to this contract SFS had been providing fleet services to the Authority for 11 years.The new service began being rolled out in May and includes a weekly collection of co-mingled dry recycling, glass, food waste and general refuse.Cllr. John Beckett, Chair of Environment Committee, Epsom & Ewell Borough Council: “We are delighted with our new vehicles, which are supporting our new kerbside collections service called Simply Weekly Recycling.  As we have come to expect, Specialist Fleet Services have paid great attention to our needs during the handover process.”The majority of the new fleet has already been delivered with the remaining vehicles in situ by the end of September.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.ukENDS.                                                                                                             https://www.sfs.co.uk/Epsom_Ewell_New_Recycling_Service_Launched--post--95.html 95 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/rsz_jon_sharpeeebc_amanda_brown_sfs_cllr_beckett_eebc_with_line_up_of_rcvsjpg.jpg 2017-08-09 00:00:00 1 Picture caption: Andrea Leadsom MP with Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS at CTS new depot Contract hire, fleet and workshop management company Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) returns to RWM alongside its municipal vehicle hire division, CTS, after the ‘most successful year yet’. Both companies have experienced significant successes since last year’s show. SFS, which has always boasted a high level of customer retention, recently signed a new 10-year contract at Epsom & Ewell Borough Council after working with the authority for over 11 years. The company has also welcomed new customers including a 6-year contract with Spelthorne Borough Council and a 7-year contract with Caerphilly County Borough Council comprising the provision of over 350 vehicles – the Authority’s biggest ever fleet procurement exercise.Similarly, CTS has expanded its operations, almost doubling its hire fleet and opening a brand-new depot in the Midlands to enhance its nationwide service capabilities.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS & CTS: “We say it every year but this stands out as our most successful year yet.  The combination of our contract hire, fleet management and workshop expertise and CTS’s skills in municipal and specialist vehicle hire, means that we can provide a comprehensive service to our customers, all under one roof.”CTS provides flexible and competitive municipal and specialist vehicle hire services for the short or long-term. The company stocks a wide range of municipal vehicles of all different makes, models, sizes and specifications and has increased its hire fleet to nearly 200 vehicles in the past 12 months. The vehicles range from 3.5t to 32t Refuse Collection Vehicles (RCV’s), specialist recycling vehicles and self-drive hire sweepers to hook loaders, skip loaders and caged tippers. The fleet is supported by a 24/7 breakdown & recovery service, and a team of mobile engineers, as well as a network of nationwide workshops and service agents.The Rt. Hon Andrea Leadsom MP (South Northamptonshire), marked the opening of the new CTS depot in Brackley in the Midlands in December 2016.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services or CTS Municipal Vehicle Hire: tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk; visit www.sfs.co.uk or www.ctshire.co.ukVisit SFS & CTS at RWM 2017 (12-14 September) - Hall 5 Stand S52 ENDS.      https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_CTS_A_Dual_Force_At_RWM_2017--post--94.html 94 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/rsz_1rsz_cts_liveried_vehicle_rwm_best.jpg 2017-08-08 00:00:00 1 Spelthorne Borough Council has awarded Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) a 6-year contract to replace its waste, recycling and street cleansing fleet. The contract involves the provision of over 17 vehicles, comprising refuse vehicles and sweepers, and SFS has a dedicated workshop on-site to maintain the vehicles. The new fleet was delivered to the council last month. Jackie Taylor, Group Head Neighbourhood Services, Spelthorne Borough Council:“During the tender process we undertook a full and thorough evaluation of all the bids that were received and scored each according to a set of criteria. SFS won the most points and offered the best solution in terms of quality and price.  The vehicles will also be equipped with the latest safety and weighing technology.  We look forward to working with the team at SFS and we are confident they will help us to further improve our service to residents.”The council is committed to improving recycling rates and the new vehicles will be sign-written to promote sustainability.SFS is a well-established specialist contract hire, fleet and workshop management company with particular expertise in helping local authorities maximise the efficiency of their fleet operations.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: “This is the first time we have worked with Spelthorne Borough Council and we hope this will be the beginning of a long-standing partnership.”For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.ukENDS.                                                          https://www.sfs.co.uk/Spelthorne_Means_Business_With_New_Fleet--post--93.html 93 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Spelthorne_Means_Business_With_New_Fleet_51308.jpeg 2017-07-03 00:00:00 1 Contract hire and fleet management provider, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) is celebrating winning a 7-year fleet replacement contract from Caerphilly County Borough Council. The contract involves the provision of over 350 vehicles.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: ?We are looking forward to working with Caerphilly and delighted to be providing their new fleet as well as assisting them in the running of their workshop. We have a proven track record in the successful provision of large, diverse fleets as well as assisting councils to make their operations more efficient. We are confident we can add value to the council?s service provision.?The contract comprises a wide range of vehicles including vans, tippers, gully machines, sweepers, tractors and grounds maintenance equipment. Whilst a small number of vehicles will be delivered during May and June, the first big tranche of 180  vehicles will arrive in September. The new ?fit for purpose? fleet will have the correct specification and interior design, as well as the latest lighting and safety equipment, to improve service and efficiency.Mary Powell, Fleet Manager, Caerphilly County Borough Council said: ?This is a very exciting time for us as an authority and we are looking forward to the future. SFS has the perfect combination of skills, knowledge and resources to help us improve the efficiency of our operations and the delivery of services. The contract is very flexible and there are a host of community benefits such as future proofing our workshop, apprenticeship schemes, and improving health and safety standards. It isn?t just about vehicles and maintenance.?SFS has been delivering contract hire, fleet and workshop management solutions to the public and private sector since 1992. With a network of workshops and its own municipal vehicle hire division, SFS can provide the full range of vehicle and plant solutions from short-term vehicle hire to meeting the most complex fleet requirements. Mary Powell added: ?We will be taking advantage of SFS?s expertise across workshops, vehicles, safety and back office, as well as adopting their fleet management system to control and monitor vehicles.?For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.ukENDS.                                                                          https://www.sfs.co.uk/Caerphilly_County_Borough_Council_Awards_Biggest_Ever_Fleet_Contract_To_SFS--post--92.html 92 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Caerphilly_County_Borough_Council_Awards_Biggest_Ever_Fleet_Contract_To_SFS_78581.jpeg 2017-06-06 00:00:00 1  Epsom & Ewell Borough Council has announced that Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) has won the contract to provide 75 vehicles for its new weekly collection service, called Simply Weekly Recycling, due to be rolled out this Spring.The 10-year contract (with the option to extend for 10 years) comprises the provision of 12 Refuse Collection Vehicles (RCV’s), along with minibuses, tippers, sweepers and grounds maintenance equipment. SFS has been providing fleet services to the Authority for 11 years and under the new contract will continue to manage the council’s workshops as well as the maintenance of the vehicles.Jon Sharpe, Transport & Waste Services Manager, Epsom & Ewell Borough Council:“We needed a new fleet to fit the new service and SFS won the tender based on a combination of quality and service. Although we are increasing the frequency of collections we are reducing our costs because we are now able to standardise the type of vehicle we use. Whereas we used to operate three different kinds of vehicle including specialist kerbside recycling vehicles, we will now have a completely multi-functional fleet. That means everyone has the same training and when a vehicle breaks down we can easily replace it with another one from the fleet.”The new weekly collection service is being rolled out to households in the borough in May and June this year and will include co-mingled dry recycling, glass, food waste and general refuse.  Garden waste will continue to be collected fortnightly. The Authority hopes that the move will increase recycling rates from the current level of 46% to over 53%.Jon Sharpe continued: “We are delighted with the bid from SFS and, although it is incidental that they have supplied us with fleet services for 11 years, it is fortuitous that the lines of administration and communication are already in place. They are very knowledgeable about fleet management and specialise in helping councils like us.”Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: “Winning this tender is great news and we are delighted to continue our long-standing relationship with the Authority. We understand their business and, as with all of our customers, we work hard to make sure they get maximum value out of their fleet. We look forward to ensuring a smooth roll-out of their new service.” For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601 or email: info@sfs.co.uk ENDS.                                                                           February 2017 Media Contact: Clare Summers tel: 07771 524 596; email: clare@summersmarketing.com; www.summersmarketing.com  https://www.sfs.co.uk/Epsom_Ewell_Announces_Simpler_Fleet_For_Simply_Weekly_Recycling--post--91.html 91 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/_38945.jpeg 2017-02-24 00:00:00 1 ON Monday 12 December The Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, The Rt Hon Andrea Leadsom MP, paid a visit to the new Collett Transport Services (CTS) depot in Brackley.SFS's municipal vehicle hire division, CTS,  is based in Gloucestershire and the new premises at Boundary Road West, Buckingham Road Industrial Estate, Brackley will enhance and streamline its nationwide services.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS and senior representatives from its parent company Paragon Bank joined the team at CTS Brackley including depot manager Allan Robinson, to meet the MP and share the company’s plans for the future. The Rt Hon Andrea Leadsom MP said: “I was delighted to have the opportunity to visit CTS’s new depot, and to celebrate the new jobs and opportunities it will provide to the area. It is great to know that the company is doing so well, and as a keen supporter of apprenticeships as a means to provide young people with valuable skills I will follow their aspiration to take an apprentice next year with great interest.”Established in 1992 Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) is a successful contract hire and fleet management company, which provides fleet and workshop management solutions to local authorities and the private sector across the UK, including South Northamptonshire Council.  SFS acquired Gloucestershire-based CTS in October 2013 to expand its range of services and offer short to long-term municipal vehicle hire. Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: “We were delighted to welcome Andrea to our new premises; to show what we do here and discuss our future plans. We have already created eight new job opportunities and plan to take on more staff next year, including an apprentice. ”ENDS.                                                             https://www.sfs.co.uk/Andrea_Leadsom_MP_Visits_New_Depot--post--90.html 90 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Andrea_Leadsom_MP_Visits_New_Depot_32532.jpeg 2016-12-13 00:00:00 1 Biffa?s latest fleet of 58 refuse collection vehicles, including the 15 Wasteater vehicles that are the subject of the company?s latest campaign, were financed by Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS).The vehicles, which operate all across the UK, are all from Dennis Eagle and comprise Olympus 23 bodies on Elite 26t chassis with Beta Trade bin lifts.Based in Northampton contract hire and fleet management company, SFS was established 25 years ago and has built up a reputation in the waste management sector for its professionalism and flexibility.Will Gallagher, Category Manager For Supply Chain & Logistics, Biffa Waste Services Ltd said: ?We like working with SFS and have a historic relationship as they have assisted us on a number of occasions particularly during acquisitions. They are easy to engage with and understand our business very well. They are always quick to respond and this new credit line, with a value of around £11m, was done with relative ease.?Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: ?We are delighted to be able assist Biffa in achieving its business objectives and facilitate the Wasteater campaign. We pride ourselves on our flexibility and although we have a reputation for contract hire agreements we are equipped to offer finance only if required.?The vehicles are also equipped with the ENVIROWEIGH bin-weighing system from Vehicle Weighing Solutions and the Cyclear Cyclist Warning Display System from Innovative Safety Systems.Biffa is running a twitter campaign around its Wasteater vehicles and encouraging members of the public to tweet a photo when they spot one using #wasteater. A spotter?s website contains profiles of each Wasteater, which have been given their own names and personalities.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.ukENDS.                                            https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_Provides_Flexible_Finance_For_Biffas_Wasteater_Fleet--post--89.html 89 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/SFS_Provides_Flexible_Finance_For_Biffas_Wasteater_Fleet_95568.jpeg 2016-12-07 00:00:00 1 Contract hire and fleet management company, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) is celebrating winning another contract following its successful bid to provide a new waste and recycling fleet for Richmondshire District Council.SFS has been working with the Authority for over 10 years and this is the third consecutive time it has been awarded the contract. This latest contract was tendered through Capita and TPPL.The new fleet will comprise five Dennis Eagle Refuse Collection Vehicles (RCV?s), three Terberg Kerloaders on DAF chassis and one NTM 15 tonne RCV on a DAF chassis. The 5-year contract hire agreement includes maintenance, which will be coordinated by Dennis Eagle?s North East service centre in Coundon, and vehicles will start to be delivered just before Christmas 2016.Spokesperson for Richmondshire District Council, Councillor Tony Duff, commented: ?We are pleased to be entering into this contract as it represents best value and will enable us to move to a new programme for collecting household waste and recyclates.?The new vehicles will also enable us to increase the types of recyclates we can collect, particularly more cardboard and varieties of plastic.?Northampton-based SFS has over 20 years experience in delivering successful contract hire, fleet and workshop management solutions to the public and private sector.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: ?One of our greatest achievements is our success in retaining our customers, but it also speaks volumes when we win these tender bids on merit alone.  We go to great lengths to understand our customers? individual operational needs and use our in depth knowledge to add value where possible.?Richmondshire District covers a total area of over 500 square miles, incorporating much of the northern area of the Yorkshire Dales including Swaledale and Wensleydale as well as Richmond and Catterick GarrisonFor more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.ukENDS.                                                       https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_Wins_Fleet_No_3_For_Richmondshire_District_Council--post--88.html 88 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/SFS_Wins_Fleet_No_3_For_Richmondshire_District_Council_64987.jpeg 2016-07-26 00:00:00 1 Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) and its subsidiary Collett Transport Services (CTS) are returning to the RWM (Resource Waste Management) exhibition following a year of investment, expansion and record customer retention levels.Northampton-based contract hire and fleet management provider SFS is celebrating a recent contract win for Richmondshire District Council, the third consecutive time it has been awarded the contract.  This follows successful bids for Hambleton and Teignbridge District Councils both of which renewed their contracts, as well as a first time win to provide vehicles for the Lichfield and Tamworth Joint Waste Service.Meanwhile short to medium term specialist and municipal vehicle hire company, CTS, has invested over £2.3m since last year?s show expanding and refreshing its fleet. The company now boasts a fleet of over 170 vehicles including Refuse Collection Vehicles (RCV?s), Specialist Recycling Vehicles, Hook Loaders, Skip Loaders and Caged Tippers, and has developed its range of Self Drive Hire Sweepers.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: ?It?s been a busy year for both companies.  We have had huge success across the board in both winning new business and retaining existing customers. CTS has been expanding its customer base and building up a fleet of reliable, high spec vehicles.?For more information about Specialist Fleet Services or Collett Transport Services: tel: 01604 234601; email info@sfs.co.uk; visit www.sfs.co.uk or www.colletttransport.co.ukVisit SFS & CTS at RWM 2016 (13-15 September) - Hall 5 Stand X100-Y101ENDS.                                                        https://www.sfs.co.uk/A_Winning_Vehicle_Hire_Team_Hits_RWM_2016--post--87.html 87 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/A_Winning_Vehicle_Hire_Team_Hits_RWM_2016_63869.jpeg 2016-07-21 00:00:00 1 Hambleton District Council has launched a new recycling service in a bid to significantly increase the range of materials being collected for recycling - and decrease the amount of waste sent to landfill.The new service sees the range of items picked up at the kerbside increased through a new co-mingled service using a wheelie bin and a box.  And it is collected using a new fleet of Refuse Collection Vehicles (RCVs).In June 2015 the authority awarded a new ten year contract (with an option to extend for an additional ten years) with long-standing vehicle partner, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS), to supply and maintain its entire fleet for waste collection, recycling and street cleansing services. The new vehicles are already in service across North Yorkshire including Northallerton, Bedale, Thirsk, Stokesley and Easingwold. Additional vehicles, including more RCVs, sweepers, vans and a mobile crane, will be delivered as part of a planned replacement programme.?This new service is already seeing an increase in the amount of recycling we are collecting ? we have been staggered by the amount left at the kerbside and by the quality,? said Leader of the Council, Councillor Mark Robson. ?Everyone has embraced the changes - and the hope that these improvements will see household recycling and composting rates hit 53% by 2020 look to already be on target.?Northampton-based SFS has over 20 years experience in delivering successful contract hire, fleet and workshop management solutions to the public and private sector.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: ?We have been working with Hambleton District Council for nearly 10 years and we are delighted to have won this contract.  We go to great lengths to understand every aspect of our customers? operations to ensure their service runs smoothly and efficiently, and to minimise any disruptions or vehicle downtime. The vehicles were delivered on time for the service roll-out and are performing well.?Householders across Hambleton have been issued with a black wheelie bin with a blue lid where they can put mixed recyclables - including paper, cardboard, steel and aluminium cans, plastic food and drink bottles, plastic rigid containers (such as food pots, tubs and trays), waxed cartons, foil and aluminium food trays.  Glass is collected separately in a blue box.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.ukENDS.                                                                                                 https://www.sfs.co.uk/Hambleton_District_Council_Enhances_Fleet_To_Increase_Recycling--post--86.html 86 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Hambleton_District_Council_Enhances_Fleet_To_Increase_Recycling_51452.jpeg 2016-04-12 00:00:00 1 With picture: Left to right Gary Brownbridge, Streetscene and Fleet Manager, Lichfield District Council; Councillor Eadie, Lichfield DC Cabinet Minister for Waste Management; and Nigel Harris, General Manager- Joint Waste Service Lichfield & Tamworth Joint Waste Service have begun taking delivery of a replacement fleet of 22 new vehicles that will start collecting recycling and waste from 76,000 homes across Lichfield District and Tamworth Borough.The delivery of the vehicles has followed a competitive tendering process, which saw Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) chosen as the service’s vehicle provider. This is a new customer for SFS and the contract includes the maintenance of the vehicles via Lichfield District Council’s existing workshop facilities.Councillor Iain Eadie, Cabinet Member for Waste Management at Lichfield District Council, commented: “It’s great to see the new fleet of waste, recycling and street cleansing vehicles arrive. The trucks are more compact, making them easier to manoeuvre, as well as being more fuel efficient due to their latest clean burn Euro 6 engines. They also have the latest safety packages, including cycle awareness and a 360-degree camera system, as well as various other driver aids. We will put them to good use over the next six years, taking away waste and recycling, helping to keep Lichfield and Tamworth tidy.”Councillor Michelle Thurgood, Cabinet Member for Housing and Waste Management at Tamworth Borough Council, said: “I am delighted to see these new vehicles have been delivered and I look forward to seeing them on our streets. These are essential bits of kit and along with the teams responsible, do an amazing job at keeping Tamworth and Lichfield looking lovely.”The six-year contract hire agreement commences this month, with the option to extend for an additional six years, and involves the provision of 22 vehicles for the councils’ shared Joint Waste Service’s refuse, recycling and street cleansing fleet.The new vehicles comprise 18 x 26- tonne Mercedes/Faun Refuse Collection Vehicles (RCV), three DAF/NTM and one Mitsubishi/Faun 7.5 RCV.Northampton-based SFS has over 20 years experience in delivering successful contract hire, fleet and workshop management solutions to the public and private sector. Within day one of the start of the contract SFS had already established on-site capacity at Lichfield, with the delivery of 16 new RCV’s, and the workshops cleaned, repainted and new equipment installed. The remaining six vehicles will be delivered over the course of the next few months.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: “This was an unusual roll-out as it involved a transition from the previous two operators, who vacated at midnight, to the new SFS fleet, all within 24 hours.  We are delighted to say that the delivery and mobilisation of the vehicles went very well and was on schedule. We will be working closely with the Joint Waste Service to ensure a smooth transition and making sure that the crews are fully trained on all aspects of the new vehicles’ operation.”For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.ukENDS. https://www.sfs.co.uk/A_Smooth_Transition_For_Lichfield_Tamworth_Joint_Waste_Service--post--85.html 85 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/A_Smooth_Transition_For_Lichfield__Tamworth_Joint_Waste_Service_17068.jpeg 2016-02-23 00:00:00 1 Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) and Collett Transport Services (CTS) have confirmed that they will be exhibiting on Stand 6 at the Southern Municipal Exhibition, taking place at the East Malling Research Centre in Kent on Thursday 12 May 2016.SFS specialises in vehicle contract hire and fleet management, and is a partner to the waste management sector. With its own network of workshops SFS offers the complete range of vehicle and plant solutions to both the public and private sector.Collett Transport Services (CTS), a leading municipal vehicle hire company, is also part of SFS and offers short to medium term vehicle hire on a wide range of products.  .For more information about SFS or CTS Tel: 01604 234 601 or visit www.sfs.co.uk ENDS.  https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_CTS_To_Attend_Southern_Municipal_Exhibition_SME_Stand_6--post--84.html 84 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/_42802.png 2016-02-02 00:00:00 1 Contract hire and fleet management company Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) and its subsidiary companies, Five Arrows Vehicle Finance (FAVF) and Collett Transport Services (CTS), have been acquired by Paragon Bank PLC, part of The Paragon Group of Companies PLC.  As a result of the takeover, asset finance company FAVF has been renamed Paragon Bank Vehicle Finance (PBVF).SFS was established in 1992 and previously belonged to the Five Arrows Leasing Group Ltd, owned by Five Arrows Leasing Holdings Ltd, part of Rothschild & Co. Paragon Bank acquired Five Arrows Leasing Group in November this year as part of its strategy to enter into the UK SME asset finance market.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: ?We are delighted to have joined such a forward thinking, customer focused organisation and we are looking forward to the opportunities this will bring to our group of companies.?For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.uk. ENDS.                                 https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_Acquired_By_Paragon_Bank_PLC--post--83.html 83 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/SFS_Acquired_By_Paragon__Bank_PLC_26666.jpeg 2015-12-17 00:00:00 1 Following a competitive tendering process Lichfield District Council and Tamworth Borough Council’s Joint Waste Service has selected Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) as its chosen vehicle provider for the shared waste and recycling service to homes across Lichfield, Burntwood, Tamworth and surrounding areas.Cllr Iain Eadle, Cabinet Member for Waste Management at Lichfield District Council commented: “SFS offered the best value in terms of quality and price.  We are delighted to be working with a new partner and we hope to further improve our efficiency and service to the public.”The six-year contract hire agreement will start in February 2016, with an option to extend for an additional six years and involves the provision of 22 vehicles for the councils’ shared Joint Waste Service’s refuse, recycling and street cleansing fleet.The new vehicles will comprise 18 x 26- tonne Mercedes/Faun Refuse Collection Vehicles (RCV), three DAF/NTM and one Mitsubishi/Faun 7.5 RCV. The Authority is hoping for better fuel efficiency and is using a shorter wheel based vehicle for easier access to new housing estates. SFS will also be carrying out maintenance on the Councils’ vehicles via its existing site workshops.Northampton-based SFS has over 20 years experience in delivering successful contract hire, fleet and workshop management solutions to the public and private sector.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: “This is the first time that we have worked with both Councils and we are delighted to have won the contract.  We will do our utmost to ensure that the new fleet delivers service improvements and efficiencies.”For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.ukENDS.                                                                                                 November 2015Media Contact: Clare Summers tel: 07771 524 596 email: clare@summersmarketing.comNote to EditorsAbout Specialist Fleet ServicesSpecialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) is a vehicle and plant solutions provider and partner to the waste management sector. Established in 1992 and with its own network of workshops SFS offers the complete range of vehicle hire and fleet management services to both the public and private sector, including vehicle maintenance, workshop management, service scheduling, certification, accident management, breakdown support, driver training, fuel management, vehicle disposal, technical advice and consultancy.Collet Transport Services (CTS), a leading municipal vehicle spot hire company is also part of SFS and offers short to medium term vehicle hire and maintenance services.For further information about SFS or CTS Tel: 01604 234601  www.sfs.co.uk  https://www.sfs.co.uk/Lichfield_Tamworth_Joint_Waste_Service_Welcomes_New_Fleet_Partner--post--82.html 82 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/_73366.jpeg 2015-11-12 00:00:00 1 The arrival of 20 new recycling collection vehicles at Teignbridge District Council marks the commencement of a three phase roll-out of its weekly recycling collection service.Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) has supplied the vehicles, all Romaquip Kerb-Sort, as part of its contract with the authority, which was renewed on 1 April 2015.  The seven-year agreement involves the provision and maintenance of 65 vehicles in total for the council’s recycling, cleansing, environmental enforcement and animal welfare services.The Kerb-Sort can accommodate a wide range of materials stored into individual enclosed compartments, including paper, cardboard, mixed plastics, glass, textiles, batteries and food. The design of the vehicle ensures that the quality and suitability of each material is maintained for onward recycling. It is also fuel-efficient and can be operated with a minimum of one driver and one loader if required.Chris Braines, Waste and Cleansing Manager, Teignbridge District Council said: “We are really pleased with the trucks and grateful to SFS for making sure they arrived on time.  We’ve gone from 7 to 18 recycling rounds and we’re collecting more materials.  It’s busy but going very well.” Teignbridge began the switch from fortnightly to weekly collections in September this year to increase the amount of recycling collected from homes. Food waste, mixed plastic packaging and all types of cardboard have been added to the existing service and there is an optional charge to collect garden waste. At the end of the third phase of the roll-out, in November 2015, some 60,000 homes will be having their recycling collected on a weekly basis.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.ukENDS.                                                                                                      https://www.sfs.co.uk/New_Recycling_Fleet_Starts_Weekly_Collections_In_Teignbridge--post--81.html 81 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/_92734.jpeg 2015-10-16 00:00:00 1 Hambleton District Council has announced that it has awarded Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) with a 10 year contract to supply and maintain its entire fleet for waste collection, recycling and street cleansing services. This is the third time that the Authority has renewed its contract with SFS, and there is an option to extend for an additional 10 years. Hambleton District Council collects waste from approximately 40,000 households and has just completed a Waste Services Review to help define its Waste Strategy for the future and improve the service to residents. The findings of the review will be published on www.hambleton.gov.uk.Paul Staines, Head of Environment Service, Hambleton District Council: ?SFS has an excellent track record in helping us keep our waste and recycling fleet running smoothly.  We are rolling out a new service and we are pleased that SFS will be managing our entire fleet including street cleansing and that this will facilitate a seamless transition.?The first batch of vehicles, five Dennis Eagle Twin Packs, will be delivered in February 2016.  The remaining vehicles; a combination of refuse collection vehicles, sweepers, vans and a mobile crane will be delivered throughout the term of the contract, as and when replacement is required.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: ?It?s great news that Hambleton have chosen us to supply and maintain their fleet for the third time running.  We started working with the Authority in 2007 and we have worked hard to gain a thorough understanding of their operations, which has enabled us to provide a contract that reflects their needs to the last detail.?SFS is sub-contracting the maintenance for the contract to Dennis Eagle. Geoff Rigg, Aftermarket Director, Dennis Eagle said: ?Dennis Eagle has a strong working relationship with SFS that goes back over 20 years, so we are pleased to be working alongside them on this contract to help keep Hambleton?s fleet running smoothly.?For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.ukENDS.                                                                                            https://www.sfs.co.uk/Hambleton_Begins_New_Service_With_Fleet_From_SFS--post--80.html 80 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Hambleton_Begins_New_Service_With_Fleet_From_SFS_99240.jpeg 2015-08-03 08:00:00 1 Contract hire and fleet management experts Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) and refuse vehicle hire and maintenance company Collett Transport Services (CTS), return to the Resource Efficiency & Waste Management Solutions 2015 (RWM) exhibition (16-18 September 2015) as co-exhibitors in Stand 5x100-Y101.SFS is celebrating after announcing that its contract with Hambleton District Council has been renewed for another 10 years, with an option to extend for 10 years. The contract involves the provision of fleet for the Authority?s street cleansing division, which includes waste and recycling, and is the third time in succession that Hambleton has chosen SFS as its vehicle partner.Paul Staines, Head of Environment Service, Hambleton District Council: ?SFS has an excellent track record in helping us keep our waste and recycling fleet running smoothly.  We are rolling out a new service and we are pleased that SFS will be managing our entire fleet including street cleansing and that this will facilitate a seamless transition.?SFS has a reputation for building long-term relationships with its clients and has recently had its contracts with First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO) and Teignbridge District Council retained for the third time.The company has also boosted its management team with the appointment of two senior members of staff: Amanda Brown as Business Development Director and Nicola Finch as Financial Director.Bob Sweetland added: ?We have a reputation for professionalism and thorough approach and we go to great lengths to understand each of our customer?s individual needs so that we can provide bespoke contracts that reflect their requirements to the last detail. RWM is the key industry expo for us and we hope to repeat the success we had at last year?s show.?At Gloucestershire-based CTS there has been an exciting new development with diversification into Sweeper hire following the purchase of 4 Johnston Sweepers.  The company has also continued to invest in new vehicles as part of its ongoing fleet renewal programme, including the addition of four 2015 plate Euro 6 RCV?s from Dennis Eagle.  Andy Collett, Director, CTS said: ?We are committed to diversifying and renewing our fleet to meet the changing needs of our customers.  RWM was a great platform for us last year, and with the continued support of SFS, we have some exciting plans for the future.?For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.ukENDS.                                                                                                https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_CTS_Together_Again_On_Stand_5X100Y101_At_RWM_2015--post--79.html 79 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/SFS__CTS_Together_Again_On_Stand_5X100Y101_At_RWM_2015_47546.jpeg 2015-07-31 00:00:00 1 Northampton-based contract hire and fleet management company, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS), has recruited two key senior members of staff to help drive its continuing business expansion. During the past two years SFS has expanded its operations with the acquisition of Collett Transport Services (CTS), a short term refuse vehicle hire company, in October 2013, followed by the launch of a new asset finance business, Five Arrows Vehicle Finance (FAVF) in August 2014.Nicola Finch, Financial Director, has over 13 years experience working at a senior level in the contract hire and vehicle leasing sector. Her role includes reviewing and improving the delivery of management information for SFS, CTS and FAVF.Nicola said: ?I was attracted by SFS?s strategic growth plans and the diversity of working with three very different business units.  This is an important stage of the company?s development and a great time to join the team.?Amanda Brown, Business Development Director, has worked in the vehicle and plant hire sector for over 25 years and has a proven track record in senior commercial roles.Amanda said: ?SFS is very highly regarded in the industry and has a reputation for professionalism. The company has sustained a period of growth and has ambitious plans for the future so it?s a busy and exciting time to join the company.?Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: ?We welcome Nicola and Amanda to the team. Their roles are a key part of our plan to build on our recent expansion and pave the way for further investment and growth.?Across the business FAVF has also just appointed three new Business Development Managers to assist with rapid growth and to expand its operations across the UK.A member of the Rothschild Group, with over 20 years experience in delivering successful contract hire, fleet and workshop management solutions to the public and private sector, SFS has an unrivalled combination of financial strength and experience, and the ability to meet the most complex of fleet requirements.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.uk. ENDS                                                                                       July 2015Media Contact: Clare Summers tel: 07771 524 596 email: clare@summersmarketing.comNotes to editorsAbout Specialist Fleet ServicesA member of the Rothschild Group, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) is a vehicle and plant solutions provider and partner to the waste management sector. Established in 1992 and with its own network of workshops SFS offers the complete range of vehicle hire and fleet management services to both the public and private sector, including vehicle maintenance, workshop management, service scheduling, certification, accident management, breakdown support, driver training, fuel management, vehicle disposal, technical advice and consultancy.Collet Transport Services (CTS), a leading municipal vehicle spot hire company is also part of SFS and offers short to medium term vehicle hire and maintenance services.  Five Arrows Vehicle Finance (FAVF) is an asset finance company established by SFS to focus on the lease and hire purchase of commercial vehicles to the recovery, haulage, bus and coach and self-drive hire sectors. For further information about SFS, CTS or FAVF Tel: 01604 234601  www.sfs.co.uk https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_Makes_Two_Key_Senior_Appointments--post--78.html 78 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/SFS_Makes_Two_Key_Senior_Appointments_67562.jpeg 2015-07-08 00:00:00 1 SFS is delighted to announce that it has retained its contract to provide and maintain the fleet for Teignbridge District Council for the third time in a row.The new seven-year contract hire agreement commenced on 1 April 2015 and involves the provision and maintenance of 65 vehicles from over eight different manufacturers, including refuse collection and recycling vehicles, sweepers and light commercial vehicles. The fleet comprises vehicles for the Authority?s waste collection service as well as for recycling, cleansing, environmental enforcement and animal welfare services.Councillor Kevin Lake Executive Portfolio Holder for Environmental Services at Teignbridge District Council said:?We are delighted to be working with SFS once again on our vehicle fleet provision and maintenance.  We have enjoyed an excellent relationship with SFS over the years and this new contract looks set to deliver even greater benefits.  We are in the process of improving our recycling services by introducing weekly food and recycling collections of more materials than ever before.  Getting the new vehicle specifications right for the changes has been crucial and SFS have been top class every step of the way.?The fleet maintenance and workshop management part of the contract is already underway with SFS?s FleetWave management software currently being installed into the Teignbridge workshop.  The new system offers superior functionality and keeps all the information about the vehicles in one place.  MOT?s, LOLERS and certificates are all stored and schedules automatically generated to ensure vehicles and equipment are serviced and tested with minimal operational disruption. Not only can the information be accessed by workshop staff and external providers, SFS?s team of mobile service engineers also have remote access and can use the system to assist them with supporting customer?s fleets.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said:?Retaining our customers is a high priority and a good gauge of how well we are doing our job.  We have worked with Teignbridge for over 10 years and this is the third time that they have awarded us the contract to supply and manage their fleet. We are delighted that they have chosen us again and we look forward to continuing to deliver our high standards of service.?A member of the Rothschild Group, with over 20 years experience in delivering successful contract hire, fleet and workshop management solutions to the public and private sector, SFS has an unrivalled combination of financial strength and experience, and the ability to meet the most complex of fleet requirements.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.uk. ENDS.                                                                                      https://www.sfs.co.uk/Teignbridge_Renews_Contract_For_Third_Time--post--77.html 77 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Teignbridge_Renews_Contract_For_Third_Time_72413.jpeg 2015-04-08 00:00:00 1 Northampton-based contract hire and fleet management provider, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) is reducing its emissions and improving its environmental performance with the addition of two hybrid vehicles to its customer support fleet.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: ?Purchasing these vehicles is very much in line with our Environmental Policy to reduce any negative impact on the environment. We make efforts to reduce the energy usage and carbon emissions from our vehicle fleet by continually investing in more efficient vehicles, and we always aim to purchase products and services that do the least damage to the environment.?The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV cars use twin electric motors and highly efficient 2.0 litre petrol engines offering superior fuel efficiency and a combined range of 510 miles.  There are three driving modes to choose from. The Electric Power or EV mode is perfect for driving in built-up areas and for shorter journeys with a battery that can take the car up to 32 miles without producing any exhaust emissions. In Series Hybrid Mode the petrol engine acts as a generator supplying electricity to the battery, which in turn power the motors and delivers a highly efficient use of fuel.  For higher speeds and motorway driving the petrol engine provides most of the power in Parallel Hybrid Mode.As an additional benefit there?s no congestion charge to pay for driving in central London and with emissions of just 44g/km the vehicles are completely exempt from Road Tax.A member of the Rothschild Group, with over 20 years experience in delivering successful contract hire, fleet and workshop management solutions to the public and private sector, SFS has an unrivalled combination of financial strength and experience, and the ability to meet the most complex of fleet requirements.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.uk. ENDS.                                                                                    https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_Goes_Low_On_Emissions--post--76.html 76 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/SFS_Goes_Low_On_Emissions_36725.jpeg 2015-03-18 00:00:00 1 First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO), which owns approximately 12,000 homes in the Borough, has renewed its contract with Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) to provide it with a new fleet of 98 vehicles, as well as a five year contract for fleet maintenance.  This is the third time that SFS have been successful in winning the tender to manage the vehicle stock for the not-for-profit housing association. SFS was also successful in its bid to manage FCHO accident repairs and specialist vehicle racking installations.Dave Thomas, Support Services Manager for the Repairs Service at FCHO, said: ?SFS won this latest tender based on pre-set quality and cost criteria. We have worked with SFS for the past 10 years and we can rely on them to provide a high standard of service.  They are very quick to respond to any issues and can provide advice on other areas such as dealing with break-ins and changing legislation.?The vehicles, which will be used by FCHO cleansing staff, caretakers, and repairs operatives including roofers, plumbers and bricklayers, comprise of Citroen Despatch, Mercedes Sprinters, Isuzu and Citroen Relay vans.  Some of the vehicles are being fitted with tipper bodies or cages built by vehicle convertor specialists, TGS Group in Bristol.  Most of the vehicles will be delivered and in operation by the end of 2014.As part of the five-year contract, to maximise local spend and opportunities, SFS has sourced local companies to assist with the provision and maintenance of the vehicles. The vehicle livery will be carried out by Grlabels4signs and Richardsons Commercials (Oldham) Ltd will be responsible for the repair and routine maintenance of the vehicles, supported by SFS engineers as necessary.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: ?FCHO are a long-standing customer and we are very pleased to have retained their contract for a third term.  We go to great lengths to understand each of our customer?s individual needs and respond with a bespoke contract that reflects their requirements to the last detail. We look forward to continuing our excellent relationship.?Previously part of Oldham Borough Council, FCHO was first set up as an ALMO (Arms Length Management Organisation) in 2002 to manage the Council?s housing stock.  In 2011 FCHO transferred to become a Registered Social Landlord, as a result of a majority vote by council tenants, and is now completely independent from the Council. As well as being committed to giving its customers the highest possible quality of service, FCHO supports the wider community of Oldham, through funding opportunities for events and projects, as well as initiatives focused on employment and skills and health and wellbeing.  A member of the Rothschild Group, with over 20 years experience in delivering successful contract hire, fleet and workshop management solutions to the public and private sector, SFS has an unrivalled combination of financial strength and experience, and the ability to meet the most complex of fleet requirements.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.uk. ENDS.                                                                                        https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_Is_First_Choice_For_Oldham--post--75.html 75 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/SFS_Is_First_Choice_For_Oldham_42012.jpeg 2014-12-09 00:00:00 1 As part of an on-going drive to provide the most comprehensive and efficient support for its customers, contract hire and fleet management company Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) has invested in 6 new service vans to boost its nationwide mobile engineer service.SFS even designed the internal fit out of the new Mercedes Vito vans to accommodate specialist tools, parts and work benches.  The vans will be used to support SFS own workshops and those that it runs on behalf of local authorities.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: ?Our customers are our number one priority and we continually invest in our staff and resources to keep their fleets running smoothly.?A member of the Rothschild Group, with over 20 years experience in delivering successful contract hire, fleet and workshop management solutions to the public and private sector, SFS has an unrivalled combination of financial strength and experience, and the ability to meet the most complex of fleet requirements.In October 2013 SFS completed its contract hire offering and brought in additional engineering expertise, with the acquisition of one of the UK?s principle spot hire companies, Collett Transport Services (CTS).  As part of its expansion plans, in August this year SFS established a new asset finance company, Five Arrows Vehicle Finance (FAVF), focusing on the lease and hire purchase of commercial vehicles to the recovery, haulage, bus & coach and self-drive hire industries.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601 or email info@sfs.co.uk ENDS                                                                                        https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_Invests_In_Supporting_Customers--post--74.html 74 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/SFS_Invests_In_Supporting_Customers_44901.jpeg 2014-09-19 00:00:00 1 Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) is branching out with the launch of a new business this August.  Five Arrows Vehicle Finance (FAVF) will focus on the lease and hire purchase of commercial vehicles in particular to the Recovery sector.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: ?This is an exciting opportunity to add another business stream with real growth potential to SFS. FAVF will complement our existing contract hire and leasing activities in the local authority and waste sectors and also the short term hire business of our CTS division*.?Heading up FAVF is Sales Director, Greg Viviers who has over 20 years experience in the finance industry, specifically in the Recovery market place as well as the other areas that FAVF plans to target including general haulage, bus and coach, plant and self-drive hire.Greg said: ?There is a gap in the market for a new asset finance company that fully recognises the value of specialist equipment used in the Recovery sector and others like it. My in-depth understanding of such industries, combined with SFS?s credentials in vehicle provision, asset management and finance, means that we can offer an unrivalled service to businesses active in these areas.?To support Greg FAVF is recruiting additional team members including a credit analyst and a business administrator.For more information about FAVF call Greg direct on 07894 587033 or tel: 01604 234601.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.uk https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_Launches_New_Asset_Finance_Company_Five_Arrows_Vehicle_Finance--post--73.html 73 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/SFS_Launches_New_Asset_Finance_Company__Five_Arrows_Vehicle_Finance_19184.jpeg 2014-08-05 00:00:00 1 Contract hire and fleet management experts Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) are returning to the Resource Efficiency & Waste Management Solutions (RWM) exhibition (16-18 September 2014) this year with refuse vehicle hire company, Collett Transport Services (CTS), which became part of SFS at the end of last year. Together the companies form a comprehensive hire service from long term contract hire through to a fast and efficient Spot Hire service.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: “By joining together we have strengthened both companies market offering and we are now in an excellent position to provide a one stop vehicle fleet solution to local authorities and private contractors.“We look forward to meeting visitors at this year’s show and hope it will prove to be as successful as last year.”Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) has enjoyed another record year, winning a major new contract to renew the 122 vehicle fleet at Kettering Borough Council, as well as design the internal fit-out and running of the Authority’s new workshop. SFS already has a proven track record in workshop management and currently operates workshops for councils across the UK including Weymouth & Portland, Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, Epsom & Ewell Borough Council and Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council.Gloucestershire-based CTS provides cost effective, nationwide municipal vehicle hire and maintenance services for the short and long term. The company is continually investing in new stock and available vehicles include RCV’s, caged tippers, stillage vehicles, hook-loaders, top-loaders, food waste vehicles, box vans and many more.CTS provides total fleet support from contract maintenance, mobile repairs and roadside assistance through to vehicle refurbishment. The company has applied its 24/7 roadside assistance and recovery expertise to delivering a fast and efficient Spot Hire service that sets its apart from its competitors.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.uk ENDS.                                                                                               https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_CTS_Present_The_Complete_Hire_Service_At_RWM_2014_Stand_5X100Y101--post--72.html 72 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/SFS__CTS_Present_The_Complete_Hire_Service_At_RWM_2014__Stand_5X100Y101_30357.jpeg 2014-06-27 17:53:35 1 Refuse vehicle hire company Collett Transport Services (CTS) will be sharing Stand N51 with parent company Specialist Fleet Services at this years Plant & Waste Recycling Show (10-12 June).Andy Collett said: “It’s been a busy year since last year’s show and we are back stronger than ever as a division of SFS. We have been renewing our fleet, investing in new vehicle stock, and we now have a hire and maintenance depot in Northampton to support our nationwide coverage.”Gloucestershire-based CTS provides cost effective, nationwide municipal vehicle hire and maintenance services for the short and long term. Vehicles available from CTS include RCV’s, caged tippers, stillage vehicles, hook-loaders, top-loaders, food waste vehicles, box vans and many more. The company will be showcasing a vehicle at the show.CTS provides total fleet support from contract maintenance, mobile repairs and roadside assistance through to vehicle refurbishment. The company has applied its 24/7 roadside assistance and recovery expertise to delivering a fast and efficient Spot Hire service that sets its apart from its competitors.Continued Andy: “CTS is the same company with the same high standards of customer service but we now benefit from the financial strength and resources of a well established contract hire and fleet management company that is part of The Rothschild Group.”Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) has enjoyed another record year, winning a major new contract to renew the 122 vehicle fleet at Kettering Borough Council, as well as design the internal fit-out and running of the Authority’s new workshop. SFS already has a proven track record in workshop management and currently operates workshops for councils across the UK including Weymouth & Portland, Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, Epsom & Ewell Borough Council and Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: “Joining forces with CTS has strengthened both companies’ market offering and we are now in an excellent position to offer a one stop vehicle fleet solution to local authorities and private contractors.”ENDS.                                                                                                      https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_Joins_Forces_With_CTS_At_PAWRS_2014_Stand_N51--post--71.html 71 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/SFS_Joins_Forces_With_CTS_At_PAWRS_2014__Stand_N51_95553.jpeg 2014-05-02 13:37:19 1 Chesterfield Borough Council has awarded the tender to refresh its street cleaning fleet to Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS).The tender involves the provision of two Schmidt Swingo 200 sweepers and includes maintenance. The contract term is 4 years and started in February 2014.Keith Thurman, Supervisor of Landscape and Streetscene Services at Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “All our vehicle contracts go out to tender and although price is important it isn’t the only thing we consider as other factors that give added value are relevant too. SFS was selected as the winning bidder after we assessed tenders on a points based system that takes into account vehicle provision, maintenance services and cost efficiency."Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS, said: “This is the first time we have worked with Chesterfield and we very much hope to build a longstanding relationship with the Authority.”SFS is a member of the Rothschild Group and has been operating for over 20 years, providing vehicle contract hire, workshop and fleet management services to local authorities and the private sector.Les Bullock, Area Sales Manager at Aebi Schmidt who have been supplying vehicles to Chesterfield for over 10 years, said: “We have been working with SFS for many years and we have a number of contracts operating very successfully. We have an excellent working relationship and we know we can rely on them to deliver an efficient and competitive service.”For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.ukENDS.    https://www.sfs.co.uk/Chesterfield_Sweeps_In_The_Changes--post--70.html 70 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Chesterfield_Sweeps_In_The_Changes_18516.jpeg 2014-04-01 12:35:57 1 Kettering Borough Council has appointed Specialist Fleet Services (SFS) to handle a major new contract which will see the company assist with the design, build and internal fit-out of a new workshop for the Council as well as supply 122 vehicles.   The new workshop, which will be completed within the next 12 months, will form a key part of the redevelopment of Kettering Borough Council’s own depot.The workshop design, build and fit-out service is the latest addition to SFS’ range of services and will help the Council, which has worked with SFS since 2003, to deliver significant operational cost savings.SFS is also supplying the Council with 122 vehicles – these include two Schmidt Swingo 200 sweepers and one Johnston V651 swepper, nine 6x4 Dennis Eagle Olympus 21 standard vehicles, one 6x2 Dennis Eagle narrow duo, two 6x4 Olympus 22 twin-pack bodies and one 4x2 Olympus 10N.  All chassis will be of Dennis Eagle’s ‘Elite’ design and all lifts manufactured by Terberg.A mix of vans, tippers, a Luton body and two Landrover 130 chassis cabs with Arb truck conversion for the tree gangs are also being provided along with some specialist equipment, such as Arb tippers and sweepers.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director of SFS, said: “At SFS we are continually looking for new ways to improve the service we provide to our customers. The provision of workshop design, build and fit-out expertise is typical of the type of services we plan to offer going forward and reflects the company’s innovative approach to customer service.”ENDS                                                                                                             Note to EditorsAbout Specialist Fleet ServicesA member of the Rothschild Group, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) is a vehicle and plant solutions provider and partner to the waste management sector. Established in 1992 and with its own network of workshops SFS offers the complete range of vehicle hire and fleet management services to both the public and private sector, including vehicle maintenance, workshop management, service scheduling, certification, MOT testing, accident management, breakdown support, driver training, fuel management, vehicle disposal, technical advice and consultancy. For further information Tel: 01604 234601  www.sfs.co.ukMedia Contact: Clare Summers tel: 07771 524 596 email: clare@summersmarketing.com  https://www.sfs.co.uk/Kettering_Borough_Council_Chooses_SFS_For_Workshop_Build_Vehicle_Provision--post--69.html 69 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Kettering__Borough_Council_Chooses_SFS_For_Workshop_Build__Vehicle_Provision_63483.jpeg 2014-02-04 09:56:48 1 As part of an ongoing business expansion programme, vehicle and plant solutions provider Specialist Fleet Services (SFS) has acquired spot hire company Collett Transport Services.  The deal comes just months after SFS’ move to tailored premises in Northampton and follows a record year of growth for the company.Commenting on the deal, Bob Sweetland, Managing Director of SFS said:”Collett Transport Services is one of the leading short to medium term hire companies in the UK.  The business operates a hire fleet of more than 100 vehicles, provides a market-leading service to its customers and also has in-house engineering capabilities. By acquiring Collett Transport Services, SFS is able to complete its contract hire offering and benefit from having extra engineering expertise within the business.  The business is the perfect fit for us and ultimately it will benefit the customers of both companies.”Collett Transport Services will work in partnership with SFS and will still be run by its founders, Andy and Bridget Collett. Andy Collett, Director, said: “When the opportunity arose for us to come under the umbrella of SFS we knew the synergy of the two companies fitted well. It was paramount to Bridget and myself that CTS retained its identity while taking the business to the next level.   Having all the advantages of a small family-run business with the benefits and backing of SFS’ and their parent company The Rothschild Group, we can now fulfil our aim of providing the best all round service to our customers”.ENDS https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_Acquires_Collett_Transport_Services--post--68.html 68 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/SFS_Acquires_Collett_Transport_Services_70332.jpeg 2013-10-21 09:00:00 1 Vehicle and plant solutions provider Specialist Fleet Services (SFS) has been awarded two new contracts by Cory Environmental to provide a total of 55 vehicles on a contract hire basis for Cornwall Council and the City of Lincoln.Both contracts were awarded following the success of SFS’ existing contract with Cory Environmental for Cornwall Council – a new unitary authority which brings five former districts and one borough together.SFS is providing a further 37 vehicles for use by Cory with their Cornwall Council contract following the successful completion of an initial 12-month contract and an assessment of the levels of investment required to improve service even further.The additional vehicles include nine Dennis Eagle ‘Olympus’ vehicles in a mix of specifications, 11 specialist built recycling vehicles from Exeter Coachworks, 3.5 and 7.5 tonne Isuzu cage tippers, a 32-tonne IVECO Boughton hookloader, three Johnston V651 sweepers and an additional recycling bank servicing vehicle.Starting in September this year, SFS will also be providing 18 vehicles for a seven-year City of Lincoln contract.  SFS is to provide eight Dennis Eagle Olympus 19 vehicles with 6x2 narrow vehicles with bin lifts, and eight Peugeot vans with caged drop sides and a range of specifications. Jerry Greaves, Northern Area Operations Manager from Cory Environmental said: “We have an extremely good working relationship with SFS.  They have an excellent track-record, are very competitive and completely understand our requirements.  This made them the obvious choice for us when we were looking for a supplier to work with us in both Cornwall and the City of Lincoln.”ENDS            https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_Appointed_By_Cory_Environmental_For_City_of_Lincoln_Cornwall_Council--post--65.html 65 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/SFS_Appointed_By_Cory_Environmental_For_City_of_Lincoln__Cornwall_Council_50137.jpeg 2013-09-30 09:00:00 1 Following a record year of growth, Specialist Fleet Services (SFS) has moved to a new site in Northampton.  The premises in Ross Road, Northampton have been tailored specifically to meet the needs of the business and enable SFS to have its head office and workshop facilities sited together at one location.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director of SFS said: “2013 has been an outstanding year for us.  We have retained all of our existing contracts and also gained new customers.  Our new purpose-designed site will make our operations even more efficient and will enable us to improve the quality of service with give to our customers both new and old.”In 2013, SFS has retained 100 per cent of its existing contracts, many of which have been subject to re-tender.  These include Hyndburn Borough Council, Hambleton and Richmondshire District Councils, Northamptonshire Borough Council and Staffordshire Moorlands District Council.   SFS has also been awarded additional work from Cory Environmental as well as winning a significant number of new tenders.As part of SFS’ business investment programme, the company has also recruited its first dedicated Bid Manager.  Paul Connor joins SFS from Lefarge where he was previously Business Development Manager.ENDS  https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_Invests_For_Growth--post--62.html 62 2013-09-20 09:00:00 3 Following a record year of growth and recent investment in new premises, vehicle and plant solutions provider Specialist Fleet Services (SFS) will be using this year’s RWM exhibition as a springboard for the next phase of the company’s growth. SFS enjoys an enviable reputation for providing market-leading customer service and in 2013 retained 100 per cent of its existing contracts, many of which have been subject to re-tender.  These include Hyndburn Borough Council, Hambleton and Richmondshire District Councils, Northamptonshire Borough Council and Staffordshire Moorlands District Council.   SFS has also been awarded additional work from Cory Environmental, as well as winning some significant new tenders.In addition, the company has invested in a bespoke new head office and workshop facility to improve operational efficiency and customer service further, and in August, recruited its first Bid Manager.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director of SFS, said: “2013 has been an outstanding year for us.  We have retained all of our existing contracts and also gained new customers. We look forward to exhibiting at RWM this year and to talking with private waste and recycling operators, and local authorities at the show.”Established for over 20 years and a member of the Rothschild Group, SFS is a leading vehicle partner for local authorities and the private sector, providing a comprehensive range of services from leasing to contact hire, fleet management and workshop management. With a reputation for meeting complex fleet requirements, SFS offers flexible and competitive lease and contract hire packages.  From grounds maintenance equipment and passenger transport vehicles to road sweepers and refuse collection vehicles, SFS has the ability to source, maintain and dispose of any vehicle. https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_BUILDS_ON_STRONG_GROWTH_AT_RWM--post--61.html 61 2013-09-02 09:00:00 3  One of the most financially robust contract hire companies in the waste management sector, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) is set to meet or even beat last year’s sales success, having already secured key contracts from the private and public sector.A member of the Rothschild Group, SFS, is looking forward to meeting up with customers and colleagues at PAWRS this year, having already announced a number of big contract wins during the first half of 2013.These include being retained as the incumbent supplier by Hyndburn Borough Council and winning the popular first shared services fleet and maintenance tender between High Peak Borough Council and Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, where SFS has been the incumbent supplier for over 14 years.Over in the private sector Kier announced SFS as its chosen vehicle & maintenance provider for its contract to deliver waste collection and recycling services for the Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk.Experts in fleet and workshop management SFS’ success comes from its focus on providing competitively priced, flexible contract hire and fleet management solutions, combined with a professional service.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services visit Stand M28 at PAWRS – 11-13 June.  Alternatively tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.ukENDS .  https://www.sfs.co.uk/Another_Record_Year_Ahead_For_SFS_Stand_M28_PAWRS_2013--post--60.html 60 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Another_Record_Year_Ahead_For_SFS__Stand_M28_PAWRS_2013_87342.jpeg 2013-05-17 14:44:20 1  For the first time, High Peak Borough Council and Staffordshire Moorlands District Council have jointly procured fleet as part of a Strategic Alliance agreement signed in 2008.  Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS), the incumbent supplier at Staffordshire Moorlands for over 14 years, was successful in beating off a large number of bids to win the popular tender.Joy Redfern, Street Scene Manager (Shared Service) said: “This is the first time that we have procured fleet across both authorities and it was a very smooth process.  There were some high quality bids received yet SFS scored very highly beating off other tenders particularly in terms of quality standards and financial costs.”SFS is a member of the Rothschild Group and has been operating for over 20 years, providing vehicle contract hire, workshop and fleet management services to local authorities and the private sector.The 7-year contract, commencing 1 April 2013 comprises the provision and maintenance of 62 vehicles for grounds maintenance, street scene, waste collection and environmental health services.  The vehicles include 1 x 15 T Johnston sweeper, 2x Scarab Magnum sweepers, 1x Scarab Minor and 6x Schmidt Swingos; 8x RCV’s with Mercedes chassis and Dennis bodies (3 x standard and 5 x twin-packs); plus a range of light vans such as Ford Transit vans and 3x Citreon Dispatch vehicles for Dog Wardens.Some of the new vehicles will be shared across both authority areas, such as those for Street Scene, and others will be used primarily in one district but provide cover for the neighbouring authority as and when necessary.  With a proven track record in workshop and fleet management SFS engineers will also be maintaining the vehicles at the Staffordshire Moorlands depot.In 2008 High Peak Borough Council and Staffordshire Moorlands District Council agreed to work jointly, forming a Strategic Alliance to secure efficiency savings, protect jobs, improve public services and provide the best value for money for taxpayers.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.ukENDS    https://www.sfs.co.uk/Joint_Fleet_Procurement_For_High_Peak_Staffordshire_Moorlands--post--59.html 59 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Joint_Fleet_Procurement_For_High_Peak__Staffordshire_Moorlands_86771.jpeg 2013-05-15 13:48:47 1  After successfully completing 12 marathons in 12 months in 2011 to raise money for the Meningitis Trust and Northampton General Hospital Intensive Care Unit, SFS Procurement Consultant Craig Fuller is taking on an even greater challenge this year. His latest fundraising endeavour is to run 100km (60 miles) from London to Brighton, along with friends Leon Moxam (33) and Mark Risby (40).The purpose is to raise money for the Ectodermal Dysplasia Society, which has been a huge support to Leon Moxam’s daughter, Gracie Rose.  Gracie suffers from Incontinentia Pigmenti (IP), a very rare genetic disorder, which affects the skin primarily but also the eyes, hair, teeth, nails and brain. Team Gracie looks set to beat its fundraising target of £2500 and have already raised in excess of £1500.The London2Brighton Challenge is an epic cross-country Ultra Marathon taking place on 25-26 May 2013.  Over 1500 participants took part last year and the fastest challenger was Abigail Cowan who completed the course in 11 hours 26 minutes. Craig and his Team Gracie members will not be running in relay and all aim to run the whole course in under 15 hours. The course is divided into 4 stages with rest stops every 25km and food stops at 25km, 50km, 75km and at the finish.  Drinks and snacks are provided at the checkpoints that appear every 12.5km.Once again Craig Fuller is being fully supported and sponsored by his employer, Northampton based contract hire, workshop and fleet management company, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS), a member of Business In The Community.To make a donation to Team Gracie visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-web/fundraiser/showFundraiserPage.action?userUrl=Gracie3&faId=305357&isTeam=true , or contact Craig on email craig.fuller@sfs.co.uk or tel: 01604 234 601.To find out more about the London2Brighton Challenge visit www.london@brightonchallenge.comFor further information about Incontinentia Pigmenti and the Ectodermal Dysplasia Society visit www.ectodermaldysplasia.org or tel: 01242 261 332.ENDS.                            https://www.sfs.co.uk/Craigs_Epic_Fundraising_Challenge_For_Gracie_Rose--post--58.html 58 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Craigs_Next_Epic_Fundraising_Challenge_For_Gracie_Rose_12674.jpeg 2013-04-30 16:50:40 1  SFS First Choice For Hyndburn Again This month Hyndburn Borough Council announced its decision to retain Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) as its chosen vehicle provider, signing a 3-year contract with the contract hire and fleet management company to renew its refuse collection fleet.Steve Riley, Head of Street Scene, Hyndburn Borough Council said: “Once again SFS provided the best combination of price and quality in response to our tender.  We have found SFS to be a very professional organisation and deliver an excellent standard of service and support. I am happy to continue our partnership for a further 3 years”SFS is a member of the Rothschild Group and has been operating for over 20 years, providing vehicle contract hire, workshop and fleet management services to local authorities and the private sector.Hyndburn’s refuse and recycling fleet comprises 11 vehicles, including five kerbside collection vehicles, which provide an alternate weekly collection service to the Borough’s 36,500 households.  The new vehicles provided by SFS are 6 x Dennis Eagle Olympus narrow chassis with Terberg OmniDEL Xtra bin lifts, delivered in stages starting this September.  The final truck is due for delivery in April 2015 and marks SFS’s first Euro 6 certified vehicle order. All new vehicles registered after 31 December 2013 will need to have a Euro 6 engine fitted, which will see an extensive reduction in certain emissions.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: “We focus on building long-standing relationships with our customers and we are delighted that Hyndburn wish to retain our services.”Hyndburn set up its kerb-side recycling scheme 9 years ago and since then has managed to push up recycling rates from 6% to 36%.  The Authority has a target to reach 40% recycling and is currently running a Cash Back Challenge to reward 40 households with a portion of their Council Tax back if the target is met.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.ukENDS                                                                                      https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_First_Choice_For_Hyndburn_Again--post--57.html 57 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/SFS_First_Choice_For_Hyndburn_Again_26173.jpeg 2013-04-09 15:15:03 1  One of the UK’s leading providers of specialist services to the public and private sector, Kier, has been awarded the contract to provide waste collection and recycling services for the Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk.  The new service, which starts on 1 April 2013, introduces alternate weekly black bin and recycling collections to the area, as well as a new weekly food waste collection service.The 8-year contract required a new fleet of vehicles together with maintenance services, and Kier selected contract hire and fleet management company Specialist Fleet Services (SFS) as its chosen provider.Kier recently signed a £120m environmental services contract with The East Sussex Waste Partnership to provide recycling, residual and green waste collections together with street cleaning and other associated services to four East Sussex councils serving over 200,000 residents.  The company has plans to continue growing this side of its business into the future.Keith Atkins, Fleet Operations Manager, Kier said: “We needed a one-stop solution for the vehicles and their maintenance. The situation in this case was unique because we currently don’t have any vehicle workshop facilities in the King’s Lynn area.  SFS is well established and a leading provider of municipal vehicles, maintenance services and fleet management. We selected them on the basis of their pricing, their credentials & their reputation in this sector. We feel sure they will serve Kier & the Kings Lynn contract very well.”The contract comprises 18 x narrow-track RCV’s from Dennis Eagle with Terberg bin-lifts, 14 of which are fitted with pods to enable collection of kitchen waste, plus a number of smaller service vehicles including MAN caged tippers.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: “We have over 20 years experience in sourcing, mobilising and maintaining fleets on behalf of local authorities and the private sector, and we look forward to working with Kier to make sure the new service in King’s Lynn & West Norfolk is a success.”For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.ukFor more information about Kier visit www.kier.co.uk ENDS.                                                                      https://www.sfs.co.uk/New_Fleet_For_New_Collection_Service_In_Kings_Lynn_West_Norfolk--post--56.html 56 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/New_Fleet_For_New_Collection_Service_In_Kings_Lynn__West_Norfolk_54899.jpeg 2013-01-23 14:45:18 1  On Monday 17 December, Alison Tipler, Hire Manager for Northampton contract hire and fleet management company Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS), will be presenting gifts to Year 1 & Year 2 children at Duston Eldean Primary School to thank them for their Christmas Card designs.The winning design, which SFS has sent out to its customers and contacts via email, was drawn by 6 year old Kaitlyn Dyball of Hedgehogs Class (Yr 1). Kaitlyn will receive a £20 WHSmith voucher at a special school assembly. The runners up will also be presented with £5 voucher each.Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) has strong links with the school having trained some of its staff  to help the children with their reading.  As part of Business In The Community’s Right to Read initiative SFS volunteers visit the school on a regular basis to read with children for 1.5 hour sessions at a time.Andy Stevenson, Deputy Head, Duston Eldean Primary School said: “The volunteers from SFS are a huge help and over the past year they have really helped these children develop and improve their reading skills.  It’s very enriching for the children to come into contact with people from different walks of life and helps us to promote a good work ethic amongst the pupils. The Christmas Card design competition is another great example of how SFS engage with the school in such a positive way and we are very grateful.”Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: “It’s very important to us to give something back to our local community and Right to Read is such a fantastic initiative for everyone concerned.  Visiting the school and getting to know the children is such a rewarding experience for our staff as well.”Bob continued: “The Christmas Card designs were all superb and it was very hard to judge, so we decided to present all of the children with a prize to show our appreciation.”ENDS.                                                                                                                          https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_Christmas_Card_Design_Competition_Prize_Giving_At_Local_School--post--55.html 55 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/SFS_Christmas_Card_Design_Competition_Prize_Giving_At_Local_School_95788.jpeg 2012-12-14 09:47:32 1  Northampton Borough Council has awarded the contract to provide and maintain its new fleet of property services vehicles to local contract hire and fleet management company Specialist Fleet Services (SFS).Councillor Mary Markham, Northampton Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing: “Our Property Services team rely on their vehicles to ensure high levels of productivity.  SFS met all of our requirements including out of hours servicing and delivery and collection of vehicles to ensure we can deliver the level of service our tenants expect and deserve.”Northampton-based SFS, who have been supplying and maintaining the authority’s existing housing fleet since 2004, are phasing in the new vehicles from early 2013.Dave Sheppard, Technical Support Manager, SFS Ltd said: “We are delighted to have won this tender, especially as we are situated in Northampton and have been providing vehicles to the authority for over 8 years. We always strive to go the extra mile for our customers and this is no exception.  The contract offers value for money and will improve the efficiency of the property services division.”The vehicles, a combination of Citroën vans, Isuzu tippers and hook lifts, all have Euro 5 diesel engines proven to deliver exceptional performance and low running costs as well environmental benefits such as low noise and low emissions.   SFS has arranged for the tradesmen’s vehicles, such as those used by electricians and plumbers, to be fitted with specialist racking by System Edstrom of Corby, for the storage of tools, equipment and materials.  This will improve the efficiency of the service by increasing the speed and number of jobs that can be carried out by the team.As part of the tendering process SFS interrogated the telematics market place and specified the Fleetmatics system with Garmin in-cab, touch screen display units for two-way communication.  As well as providing vehicle tracking the system, which is smart phone compatible, offers a host of functions that can be tailored to the end-user’s specification including text alerts in live-time and the production of management reports on items such as driving style and fuel usage. To further improve fuel consumption speed limiters are being fitted to all vehicles and training on ‘green driving’ provided.Northampton Borough Council is also switching over to SFS’ new, superior FleetWave management software; a secure web-based system for scheduling work, servicing and repairs, monitoring the fleet and providing a range of management information.Established for over 20 years and a member of the Rothschild Group, SFS is a leading vehicle partner for local authorities and the private sector, providing a comprehensive range of services from leasing to contact hire, fleet management and workshop management. For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.uk ENDS.                                                                               https://www.sfs.co.uk/100_Vehicle_Availability_For_Northampton_Borough_Council--post--54.html 54 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/100_Vehicle_Availability_For_Northampton_Borough_Council_64717.jpeg 2012-11-22 10:00:44 1  With pic (L to R): Mick Simson, TDC’s Parking and Community Supervisor; Tom Mosey and Andy Mosey from Holland-on-Sea Motors; Pam Sambridge, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Technical Services; Trevor Mills, TDC’s Horticultural and Transport Services Manager and Jim Morrison, Senior Fleet Manager for SFS with the four new Citroen vehicles. In keeping with the Tendring District Council’s (TDC) promise to purchase locally, contract hire and fleet management company Specialist Fleet Services (SFS) has arranged for the Authority’s new fleet of vehicles to be supplied by local Citroen dealer, Holland-on-Sea Motors, Clacton-on-Sea.Pam Sambridge, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Technical Services, said that every effort is made to deal with local firms wherever possible.“We have promised to try to source goods and services locally where the deal is right and offers value for tax payers’ money,” she said.“You could say this particular deal is a case of putting our money where our mouth is.”The vehicles comprise 3 x 3.5 tonne Citroen Relay Tippers; 1x Citroen Berlingo long-wheel based van that has been specially converted for secure cash collection with slam locks and a tracker system; and 1x Ford Ranger 4-wheel drive vehicle.Most of the vehicles will be used for the authority’s Horticultural Services Department to maintain open spaces including seafront gardens, recreation grounds, cemeteries and open spaces around Council housing.  One vehicle, the Berlingo van, will be operated by the Council’s Parking and Community Services team.The five-year contract hire agreement includes maintenance, which SFS has agreed for Holland-On-Sea motors to carry out on its behalf.  This means that the vehicles will never have to leave the local area, reducing the distance they will need to travel.Jim Morrison, Senior Fleet Manager, SFS, said it is a contract that works for everybody involved:“We specialise in this type of arrangement for local authorities across the country and it is good for the local dealer,” he said.“It is more environmentally-friendly if the vehicles are sourced nearby as they travel less distance, reducing the amount of fuel used and their carbon footprint.”ENDS.                    https://www.sfs.co.uk/Keeping_It_Local_For_Tendring_District_Council--post--53.html 53 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Keeping_It_Local_For_Tendring_District_Council_12101.jpeg 2012-10-12 09:50:24 1  Bury Metropolitan Borough Council has acquired the latest electric, ultra-quiet, zero emissions sweeper technology to keep its streets and pavements clean round the clock without disturbing residents or polluting the environment.The Green Machine 500ZE is being supplied to the council by leading contract hire and fleet management company, Specialist Fleet Services, via Green Machines who will also be maintaining the vehicle for the duration of the 5-year contract.Stephen Fleming, Head of Transport & Workshops: “We’re keen to try out more environmentally friendly ways to run our service and help boost the market place for clean, green technologies.  We are striving to reduce the CO2 emissions of our fleet and this sweeper will contribute to that target.”The sweeper is the second electric vehicle to join the Bury fleet.  The authority also has an Mega Tipper electric vehicle to collect litter from bins in and around the town centre.Mick Morris Senior Waste Operations Manager said:  “We are delighted to introduce a second electric vehicle into the town centre, which demonstrates Bury’s commitment to reducing CO2 emissions in the authority’s pedestrian areas.”“As well as no emissions the sweeper uses less water and with no diesel engine the vehicle is extremely quiet and pubic friendly. The carbon footprint has been significantly reduced by the equivalent of 40 cars worth of emissions, and its running costs are only £3 per day compared with £40 per day for a diesel vehicle.”Designed in Britain the 500ZE is manufactured by Green Machines, now part of the Tennant Company, in Falkirk Scotland.  It is the first Lithium Ion powered suction sweeper in the world and was designed to create a cleaner, quieter sweeping solution for town and city centre areas. Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: “We’ve been working with Tennant for many years and we are impressed by the quality of their vehicles and machinery as well as their professional service. We were delighted to contract hire the 500ZE to Bury and we applaud their commitment to reducing emissions in the local area.”Virtually silent, the 500 ZE allows early morning and late night sweeping to take place with minimum impact on residents. The machine can operate for up to 8 hours, non-stop, on one charge and can recharge in just four hours. Bury MBC is installing an electric charging point at its depot for this purpose.Ray Ferris, Area Sales Manager, Green Machines: “We’re delighted that Bury MBC have chosen one of our vehicles and particularly the 500ZE.  We’ve had great feedback from our existing customers across the UK and Europe.  The 500ZE is already cleaning streets in Paris, Rome and Amsterdam, and we hope to see more and more of them across the UK.”ENDS.                                                        https://www.sfs.co.uk/A_Clean_Sweep_For_Bury_Metropolitan_Borough_Council--post--52.html 52 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/A_Clean_Sweep_For_Bury_Metropolitan_Bury_Council_42748.jpeg 2012-09-19 14:21:50 1   Thanks to everyone who visited our stand at RWM this year.  The show was busier than ever and we were rushed of our feet.  It was such a success for us that we've already booked to attend next year's event! https://www.sfs.co.uk/Roll_On_RWM_2013--post--51.html 51 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Roll_On_RWM_2013_63064.jpeg 2012-09-14 12:05:12 0  Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) – Stand 20C19After a record year that includes winning the UK’s largest ever municipal vehicle hire contract worth £14m, Specialist Fleet Services (SFS) is back at RWM again this year.Established for over 20 years and a member of the Rothschild Group, SFS is a leading vehicle partner for local authorities and the private sector, providing a comprehensive range of services from leasing to contact hire, fleet management and workshop management. With a reputation for meeting complex fleet requirements, SFS offers flexible and competitive short or long-term hire packages.  From grounds maintenance equipment and passenger transport vehicles to road sweepers and refuse collection vehicles, SFS has the ability to source, maintain and dispose of any vehicle.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, said: “Last year was our first time exhibiting at RWM and we thought it was an excellent expo for the sector. It’s a great opportunity for us to talk to face to face with private waste & recycling operators, as well as local authorities, all under one roof.”Recently SFS announced another first having been awarded the contract to provide vehicles to Hambleton and Richmondshire District Councils, who joined together to procure refuse vehicles for the first time.For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.ukENDS.                                                                              https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_Returns_To_RWM_After_Record_Year--post--50.html 50 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/SFS_Returns_To_RWM_After_Record_Year_33833.jpeg 2012-09-06 14:31:51 1  Hambleton and Richmondshire District Councils have awarded the contract to provide waste and recycling vehicles to Specialist Fleet Services.It is the first time they have worked together to procure refuse trucks.“This is the first time that we have jointly procured vehicles and there have been lots of positives from combining the expertise from both authorities,” said Director of Hambleton District Council, Mick Jewitt, who manages the waste and recycling service for both councils.”The two councils now work much more closely together which gives us greater flexibility in terms of fleet optimisation.   Specialist Fleet Services has gone to great lengths to offer vehicle specification options to suit the different geography of the districts – including the need for narrow vehicles to navigate the rural roads of Richmondshire. “He said that Specialist Fleet Services offered the best value not just in terms of price but also in terms of the overall package - fleet management, maintenance, on site engineers and a single contact point for problems. “Not having to worry about vehicle availability frees us to focus on delivering the best possible service to our residents,” he added.The 3+1+1 year contract is made up of 15 RCV’s - 10x Dennis Elite 2 6x4 standard width Olympus body with OmniDEL Xtra bin lifts for Hambleton and 5x Dennis Elite 2 6x2 narrow mid-lift Olympus body with OmniDEL standard bin lifts.This is not the first time that SFS has worked with both districts – it was awarded a contract with Richmondshire in 2004 and with Hambleton in 2007. To date SFS has supplied approximately 40 vehicles across both authorities.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: “We are pleased to continue our excellent working relationship with Richmondshire and Hambleton.  In our tender we aimed to achieve the best fit in terms of operational and economic advantage, and I think we achieved that.”For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.ukENDS.                                   https://www.sfs.co.uk/Hambleton_Richmondshire_Procure_Together_For_Total_Fleet_Management--post--49.html 49 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Hambleton__Richmondshire_Procure_Together_For_Total_Fleet_Management__18276.jpeg 2012-09-03 14:00:02 1  To facilitate the roll out of a new refuse and recycling collection service on the Isle of Wight, waste management company Island Waste (a subsidiary of Biffa), turned to contract hire and fleet management experts Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) to provide a new fleet of purpose built vehicles.The five-year contract is worth £1.4m and comprises seven RCV’s, all Dennis Elite 6x2 with Olympus 16 Duo bodies, fitted with Terberg Omni-Del bin lifts and kitchen waste pods.In February 2012 Island Waste launched a new refuse and recycling collection service on the Island. The new service has involved the distribution of over 50,000 green wheelie bins to residents to replace black bin bags and the introduction of alternate weekly collections of refuse and dry mixed recyclables. Kitchen and food waste is now collected every week.Mike Thair, General Manager, Biffa West Sussex Ltd & Island Waste Services Ltd said: “With the introduction of green wheelie bins for the first time on the Island and regular food waste collections, it was absolutely crucial to get the correct specification of vehicles to get the service up and running as quickly as possible.  SFS provided us with the right vehicles on time, despite very short lead times, and helped us make sure the new service operated smoothly and efficiently.  Their expertise and professionalism was faultless.”Northampton-based SFS is a member of the Rothschild Banking Group and one of the most experienced contract hire and fleet management companies in the UK.  SFS runs its own vehicle workshops as well as on behalf of local authorities, and provides specialist vehicle hire and fleet management services to the public and private sector.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: “Biffa is a valued customer and we are delighted that they have chosen to use our services again.  We trust that the new vehicle specification will facilitate an efficient collection service on the island.”Jodie Scott , Category Manager , Biffa Group Procurement said:  “This is a classic example of the benefits that can be delivered to all parties  through close cooperation up and down the supply chain and keeping a focus on the wider delivery of total cost, value creation and service provisions.”For more information about Specialist Fleet Services tel: 01604 234601, email info@sfs.co.uk or visit www.sfs.co.ukENDS.                                                                                     August 2012 https://www.sfs.co.uk/Biffa_Turns_To_SFS_For_New_Fleet_On_Isle_of_Wight--post--48.html 48 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Biffa_Turns_To_SFS_For_New_Fleet_On_Isle_of_Wight__42163.jpeg 2012-08-01 10:19:36 1   Thank you to everyone at PAWRS for putting on a very well organised event.  We were pleased to be part of the show and enjoyed the opportunity to network with our colleagues and customers from local authorities and the private sector. Next month you can find us up North at the Londonderry Garage Show on 11 & 12 July. ENDS.  https://www.sfs.co.uk/Jolly_Good_Show--post--47.html 47 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Jolly_Good_Show_90600.jpeg 2012-06-19 16:53:12 1  Leading commercial waste collection provider PHS Wastetech has awarded the contract for its additional fleet of recycling and waste collection vehicles, to Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS).A member of the Rothschild Banking Group, SFS is one of the most experienced contact hire companies in the UK, and runs its own network of vehicle workshops, as well as providing vehicle hire and fleet management services to the public and private sector.The five year contract comprises 26 Trade RCV’s from Dennis Eagle, and 7 Ford Transit Caged Tippers, which will be providing trade waste collection services around the country, primarily in Manchester and London.PHS Wastetech provides waste collection and recycling services to local and national customers in the commercial, retail and industrial sectors. The company has a network of over twenty depots positioned throughout England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, servicing over 15,000 clients.Lee Herriott, Head of Procurement, PHS said: “We have worked with SFS in the past with success and have found them to be a very straight forward and professional team.  They also have strong relationships with all the vehicle manufacturers.”Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: “PHS Wastetech are a very reputable organisation and we are pleased that they chose us for such a significant contract.”ENDS.                                                                                  https://www.sfs.co.uk/PHS_Wastetech_Takes_On_New_Fleet_From_SFS--post--46.html 46 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/PHS_Wastetech_Takes_On_New_Fleet_From_SFS_47679.jpeg 2012-05-15 11:37:01 1  Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council has just taken on a new apprentice at their vehicle depot on Middlefield Lane, Hinckley, through the Leicester College Apprenticeship Training Agency (ATA).The Council’s fleet of vehicles and workshop facilities are maintained by Northampton-based Specialist Fleet Services, who selected 18-year old Christopher Ellix from Ibstock as an Apprentice Commercial Vehicle Technician, from a range of candidates hand-picked by the ATA. Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: “The service from the Leicester College Apprenticeship Training Agency is excellent. They manage the whole process and there is minimum risk to us.  More companies should give it a try.”Mike Brymer, Chief Officer, Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council said: “We’re delighted to support the Apprenticeship Training Agency at Leicester College. It’s important that we provide opportunities for young people in our local community. Christopher will gain valuable hands on training at our workshop whilst he continues with his studies towards becoming a fully qualified HGV Commercial Vehicle Technician.”Lesley Ganda, Recruitment Account Manager, Leicester College: “Leicester College ATA provides a vital link between young people in training and local employers.  We aim to take all the hassle out of the recruitment process. Once we have taken a detailed brief from an employer outlining what they are looking for in an Apprentice, we screen potential candidates, in person, and assess their suitability for the role.  This includes checking their qualifications and their English and Maths aptitude. We then provide a shortlist for interviews and we can offer the use of College facilities to conduct those interviews if required.”Continued Lesley: “We have so many talented and enthusiastic young people just waiting for a chance to prove what they can do.  We just need more employers to come forward.”Once a candidate has been selected, the ATA gather references and takes care of employment contracts. The Apprenticeship Training Agency invoices the employer on a monthly basis for the Apprentice’s salary plus a management fee.  The employer can decide to employ their Apprentice direct at any point during the Apprenticeship.”Christopher Ellix, who has already completed a City & Guilds course in Motor Mechanics said: “I’m really enjoying it.  There’s a lot more to refuse vehicles than normal trucks, as there are so many complex moving parts.  I’ve always loved cars and engines so it’s great to get the chance to do what I love as a job.”Any employers interested in finding out more about Apprenticeship opportunities through Leicester College ATA should contact Leicester College on 0116 224 2240 or visit www.leicestercollege.ac.ukENDS.                                         https://www.sfs.co.uk/Hinckley_Bosworth_Supports_Apprenticeship_Scheme--post--45.html 45 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/Hinckley__Bosworth_Supports_Apprenticeship_Scheme_80013.jpeg 2012-04-23 12:16:06 1  Leading contract hire, workshop and fleet management Company, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS), will be Exhibiting at this year’s PAWRS show on a wave of success having just been awarded possibly the UK’s largest-ever municipal vehicle hire contract.Recently SFS was chosen as the vehicle provider for Cory Environmental’s new contract with Cornwall Council for waste and recycling collections, beach and street cleansing.  The contract is worth £14m and involves the provision of over 200 vehicles.A member of the Rothschild Group and operating for over 20 years, SFS is one of the most established and financially robust contract hire companies serving both local authorities and the private sector.Steve Price, Sales Director, SFS: “We’re looking forward to PAWRS this year.  It’s a great opportunity to meet with customers old and new, as well as catch up with colleagues from the industry.”Based in Northampton, SFS runs a network of workshops on behalf of local authorities, as well as its own facilities.  From a mower to a van, a bus to a refuse vehicle, SFS has all the expertise to specify, source, maintain and dispose of various types of municipal vehicles, passenger transport equipment and plant. As well as contract hire and short-term hire vehicle provision, SFS offers the complete range of fleet management services.  These include a dedicated Fleet Desk for technical queries and practical support, an extensive mobile engineer network, workshop management or provision, a fleet management system, servicing and maintenance, MOT and LOLER certification, Breakdown and Accident Recovery, Fuel Management, Staff Training and TUPE transfers.SFS are Exhibiting a refuse vehicle at the show and can be found on Stands 28 & 29. ENDS.                                                                           https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_Demonstrates_Success_In_Cornwall_At_PAWRS_Stands_28_29--post--44.html 44 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/SFS_Demonstrates_Success_In_Cornwall_At_PAWRS___Stands_28__29_23189.jpeg 2012-03-26 21:43:20 1  Bedford Borough Council is engaging the services of vehicle contract hire and fleet management experts, Specialist Fleet Services (SFS) to supply and maintain a new fleet of Refuse Collection Vehicles (RCV’s), operating alongside the authority’s existing in-house fleet.Tim Cockayne, Fleet Engineering Services Manager, Bedford BC: “We structure the elements of our vehicle provision and maintenance to meet the needs of our service. Across the authority we have some 300 vehicles in operation. We strike a balance between the optimum utilisation of our in-house resources, with the specialist skills and knowledge of companies like SFS, to deliver the best value for money.”“SFS are helping us to introduce operational efficiency improvements, such as out of hours maintenance, which reduces Vehicle Off Road (VOR) time, increases vehicle availability and mitigates service disruptions.”The four new vehicles will be used to collect both trade and domestic waste, and comprise: 2 x Scania (6x4) chassis/Heil Powerlink 21 cubic metre bodies with Heil Universal trade lifts; 1x Scania (6x2) chassis with Dennis Olympus 21 wide body with Terberg OmniDEL Xtra Bin lift; and 1 Scania (8x4) chassis with Dennis Olympus 27 wide body with Terberg OmniDEL Xtra Bin Lift.All the vehicles have been fitted with Vehicle Weighing Systems Load Cells, the latest LED lighting package, front directional beacons and a rear view camera monitor.Cllr Charles Royden, Portfolio Holder for Environment & Transport and Deputy Mayor of Bedford said: “We are continually looking for new and better ways of working.  SFS are valuable partners, helping us to streamline our service and provide the best value for money for our residents.”A member of the Rothschild Banking Group, SFS provides contract hire and fleet management services to local authorities and the private sector. The SFS team are experts in all aspects of vehicle and fleet provision including contract hire and lease arrangements, maintenance, workshop management, compliance and testing, service scheduling, support and technical advice, accident management, breakdown support, TUPE transfers, staff training and vehicle disposal. SFS also runs a network of workshops on behalf of local authorities, and an in-house facility to keep its own hire fleet and customers’ vehicles running smoothly. Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: ”We have been supplying Bedford Borough Council with refuse vehicles since 1998. The key to our longstanding relationship is that we operate as an integrated part of the authority, with access to all the information we need to deliver exactly the right vehicles and make service improvements.” ENDS.                                                                               https://www.sfs.co.uk/Bedford_BC_Balances_Contract_Hire_With_InHouse_Provision--post--43.html 43 https://www.sfs.co.uk/userfiles/images/sys/blog_items/_Bedford_BC_Balances_Contract_Hire_With_InHouse_Provision__45785.jpeg 2012-02-28 16:43:13 1 On 18 December 2011 Craig Fuller, SFS Administrator, completed his twelfth and final marathon in 4 hrs 35 minutes, 12 months after commencing his challenge in January 2011 to run a marathon every month.Huge congratulations to Craig who managed to run some 315 miles and raise over £5,500 for the Meningitis Trust and Northampton General Hospital Intensive Care Unit where his wife Katie was treated after being diagnosed with Meningeoncephalitis in 2008.Thankfully Katie made a full recovery and the couple, together with 1 year old daughter Poppy, have just welcomed a new addition to their family, William John George Fuller who was born on 26th January.Of all the races, Craig rates Snowdonia as his best race and the Malvern Hills as his worst.  Since crossing the final finish line, which Craig described as a very emotional experience, he threw his trainers in the garage and hasn’t done any training since.Craig adds: “Thanks to everyone who has supported me. It was an amazing experience.  I wasn’t sure that I could actually achieve what I set out to do so I’m surprised, proud and massively relieved that it’s over!”To find out more about Craig’s challenge go to www.run12in12.co.ukAnyone wishing to donate to one of Craig’s chosen charities can still do so by emailing Craig at lostfuller@yahoo.co.uk. https://www.sfs.co.uk/Craig_Completes_Marathon_Challenge--post--42.html 42 https://www.sfs.co.uk/admin/images/final-run-best.jpg 2012-02-07 11:57:48 1 3rd February 2012Contract hire and fleet management company, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS), is celebrating being awarded a fourth contract in succession by Aylesbury Vale District Council. SFS has been supplying the authority with vehicles for over 10 years and this latest fleet will facilitate the rollout of a new twin-stream, co-mingled collection service in the district.Andrew Wilkins, Service Manager, Aylesbury Vale District Council said: “Flexibility and value for money are our top priorities and SFS always delivers on both accounts. The new vehicles are crucial to the success of our new service and have been specified for maximum load and efficiency, whilst being able to reach difficult to access areas.”Andrew continued: “Our initial target is 60% recycling in the district and after some door to door consultation with residents we have constructed a new service that includes weekly food waste collections, with alternate residual waste and recyclable waste collections.”The 6-year lease hire agreement commences in August 2012 when the 16 new RCV’s, all from Dennis Eagle with Terberg Bin Lifts and Food Pods, will be delivered to Aylesbury.A member of the Rothschild Banking Group, SFS runs its own network of workshops and provides vehicle hire and fleet management services to the public and private sector, including maintenance, workshop management, service scheduling, compliance and testing, accident management, breakdown support, staff training and technical advice.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS, said: “We value our close working relationship with Aylesbury Vale, which helps us to deliver a tailor-made solution, at a competitive price.  We are committed to providing a reliable and quality service that is unrivalled in the industry.” https://www.sfs.co.uk/New_Vehicles_for_A_New_Service_in_Aylesbury_Vale--post--41.html 41 https://www.sfs.co.uk/admin/images/SFS-Refuse-3.jpg 2012-02-02 21:43:13 1 Leading contract hire and fleet management company Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) is celebrating winning potentially the UK’s largest-ever municipal vehicle hire contract, to provide vehicles for Cory Environmental’s new contract with Cornwall Council for waste and recycling collections, beach and street cleansing.The £14m contract comprises over 200 vehicles for refuse collection, street cleansing and grounds maintenance, including 47 RCV’s, sweepers, skip loaders, tippers, graffiti removal and street cleansing units, plus a number of specialist build vehicles for recycling.Nigel Carr, General Manager for Cory Environmental Municipal Services Ltd said: “Cory has been operating in Cornwall, near Truro, since 1990 and we are delighted to have been selected by Cornwall Council for this significant contract. We have found SFS to be a very professional organisation that shares the same ethos, and they are a valuable partner in helping us deliver the highest standards of service in Cornwall. The contract offers value for money as well as a responsive and flexible service.”Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS, said: “This is a very prestigious contract and we are honoured to have been selected as Cory’s preferred provider.  We are committed to helping Cory deliver a top class service to the residents of Cornwall.”In October 2011 Cornwall Council appointed Cory Environmental to deliver waste and recycling collections, plus beach and street cleaning services throughout Cornwall as part of a new contract that retains weekly black bag collections for residents over the next eight years.Previously eight different providers were responsible for collecting Cornwall’s waste and cleaning beaches and streets, under the operation of the six former district councils. With the majority of contracts due to end at the end of March 2012 Cornwall Council took the decision to move to a unified and integrated contract for the whole of Cornwall.Julian German, Cornwall Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for waste and recycling said:  “This contract will enable us to safeguard weekly black bag collections for residents in Cornwall.  By providing a single contract we can harmonise the service standards to provide the same level of service to everyone across Cornwall at the same time as reducing costs for council tax payers”. https://www.sfs.co.uk/Cory_Awards_Landmark_Contract_To_SFS--post--40.html 40 https://www.sfs.co.uk/admin/images/IMG_4405.jpg 2012-01-27 17:28:19 1 Northampton-based vehicle contract hire and fleet management company Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) called in the expertise of artistic pupils at Duston Eldean Primary School in Northampton, to design their company Christmas card this year.SFS have strong links with the school through Business in the Community (BITC) and the Right to Read initiative. This year 14 members of staff volunteered to be trained and CRB checked, in order to visit the school each week and assist the children with their reading.A panel of staff at SFS selected two pictures, created by Jason West (10) and Ellie Garrett (11), to decorate the card, which will be sent out to SFS business contacts.On Monday 12 December Jason and Ellie will be presented with a £20 voucher by SFS Director Yvette Emslie, as a thank you for their efforts.Bob Sweetland, managing director, SFS Ltd said: “The children put in a lot of effort and the designs even included our corporate logo which is great.  We are very grateful and the card will be very well received by our customers.”Andy Stevenson, Deputy Head said: “We are delighted to have such a good relationship with a successful, local company like SFS.  It’s important for the children to meet local business people and learn about what they do. The children really enjoyed this activity and they are excited about seeing the finished printed cards.”  https://www.sfs.co.uk/Local_Primary_School_Pupils_Design_SFS_Christmas_Card--post--36.html 36 https://www.sfs.co.uk/admin/images/xmascard.jpg 2011-12-01 15:02:05 1 In a major private sector contract Specialist Fleet Services (SFS) have impressed bosses at Biffa with their ‘can-do’ approach in providing a fleet of vehicles for Winchester City Council.Jodie Scott, Group Procurement Category Manager, Biffa said: ”SFS have shown a thorough understanding of our business requirements and have proven to be flexible, with the capacity to deal with the unexpected very well. Their support in a continuous changing and demanding market has provided the platform to work strategically with Biffa.”The 5-year contract hire agreement comprises 25 vehicles, which will be used to collect a combination of domestic and trade waste.  The fleet consists of: 19 Dennis Olympus 21 wide bodied 6x2 Elite 2 Rear Steer Chassis and 2 x Olympus 13 wide bodied on 6x2 Elite Chassis, all with Zöller compact low level lifts; 2 x Terberg top loaders 28 cu.m on Dennis Eagle Elite 6x2 mid-lift chassis; plus 1 x Mitsubishi Canter Tipper and 1 x Mercedes Atego 10 tonne.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS said: “This contract is a prime example of how we can bring a different approach to fleet provision in the private sector.  We are well established and the combination of our expertise and parentage gives us a flexibility not often found in the contract hire sector.”BIFFA won the £32 million 8 year contact to take over refuse and recycling collections across Winchester and East Hampshire in October and they have been rolling out a new integrated cross-border waste and recycling collection service.David Maidman, Operations Director, Biffa said: “SFS have been a critical partner in helping us the meet the financial targets for this contract and in ensuring that the vehicles were delivered on time and to specification.”Municipal vehicle and contract hire specialists, Northampton-based Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) offer a range of financial and operational solutions for the provision of vehicle fleets to both the Public and Private Sectors. The company has extensive experience in providing fleet management services, including the operation of workshops supported by a nationwide network of mobile engineers, the TUPE transfer of customers’ workshop staff and in ensuring the highest standards of health and safety are maintained. https://www.sfs.co.uk/BIFFA_Identifies_A_Key_Partner_In_SFS--post--35.html 35 https://www.sfs.co.uk/admin/images/BIFFA-Winchester-Open-Road_01.jpg 2011-11-18 10:16:36 1 THIS month Northampton-based contract hire and fleet management experts, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) has delivered four new Dennis Eagle Olympus RCV’s to long standing customer, South Northamptonshire Council, as part of an interim fleet configuration while the authority reviews its recycling and collection service.Ed Potter, Head of Service, South Northamptonshire Council: “We needed a fleet structure to help us continue to deliver our service for the next two years, whilst giving us the flexibility to change the configuration if necessary, when we have shaped our new collection service and waste disposal contract. SFS have helped us to come up with an interim solution that will see us through this review period.”The sole contract hire provider to South Northamptonshire Council (SNC), SFS has held the maintenance contract for the authority since 2001, servicing vehicles at its in-house workshop facility in Brackmills, Northampton. In 2002 SFS assisted SNDC in procuring the UK’s first low-level Scania cabs.Bob Sweetland, Managing Director, SFS: “We have provided South Northamptonshire  with a combination of vehicle solutions to see them through this period of flux, whilst they consider the future structure of their service.  As well as providing some new vehicles, we have extended the lifetime of the fleet through a number of measures such as vehicle refurbishment and the provision of vehicles from our hire fleet.”SFS has been busy in other parts of the country, winning the contract for London Borough of Hackney, comprising over 120 vehicles for waste, housing, libraries, courier and parking services.At Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council where the decision has been taken to bring the housing maintenance service back in house, SFS has been awarded the contract to supply a 17 strong fleet to the authority’s Property Services department. https://www.sfs.co.uk/Contract_Solutions_To_Fit_All_Sizes--post--34.html 34 https://www.sfs.co.uk/admin/images/SouthNorthantsFleetBest_01.jpg 2011-11-17 10:15:22 1 Municipal vehicle and plant contract hire specialists, SFS, can be found on Stand 2482 at this years RWM show in partnership with CIWM.Steve Price, sales director, SFS Ltd: “As the leading trade expo for the waste management sector we were keen to have a presence at the show. We’re looking forward to meeting other exhibitors and to talking to representatives from both the private sector and local authorities.”Established over 18 years ago, SFS is one of the most well-established and robust contract hire companies, serving both the public and private sectors.A member of the Rothschild Group, the company has a unique financial strength that can facilitate flexible solutions to deliver costs and efficiency savings as well as service improvements.Based in Northampton, SFS runs a network of workshops on behalf of local authorities, as well as its own facility.  From a mower to a van, a bus to a refuse vehicle, SFS has all expertise to specify, source, maintain and dispose of all manner of municipal and passenger vehicles and plant.Bob Sweetland, managing director, SFS Ltd: “Each customer is different, so we invest time and resources finding out about their operation to gain a proper understanding of their requirements. Our aim is to create contract solutions that offer value for money, as well as going above and beyond a customer’s expectations.”As well as contract hire and short-term hire vehicle provision, SFS offers the complete range of fleet management services.  These include a dedicated Fleet Desk for technical queries and practical support, an extensive mobile engineer network, workshop management or provision, a fleet management system, servicing and maintenance, MOT and LOLER certification, Breakdown and Accident Recovery, Fuel Management, Staff Training and TUPE transfers.Some of SFS customers have the last word…Andrew Wilkins, Head of Waste Services, Aylesbury Vale District Council: “We, like many authorities, are undergoing a process of change and we need to be able to change our fleet in line with any future changes to our waste collection service.  We believe in open and honest discussion and SFS provide that.  The contract is not only extremely competitive with very favourable lease arrangements, but also gives us the ability to change vehicles before the end of term of the contract.”Simon Walker, Waste & Depot Manager, Weymouth & Portland Borough Council:"We value SFS knowledge and expertise in helping us to select, specify and maintain our fleet of vehicles.  Thanks to our partnership with SFS we have achieved a 100% success rate on M.O.T's, safeguarded our Operator Licence and improved the efficiency of our service to provide better value for money to our residents."For further information Tel: 01604 234601  www.sfs.co.uk https://www.sfs.co.uk/Specialist_Fleet_Services_Ltd_SFS_Brings_Unique_Expertise_To_RWM--post--33.html 33 https://www.sfs.co.uk/admin/images/RWMCIWM11-Logo-V.jpg 2011-07-12 16:22:33 1 ON Saturday 25 June SFS Workshop Admininstrator, Craig Fuller, will run his sixth marathon, The Malvern Midsommer Marathon, marking the halfway point in his challenge to run 12 marathons in as many months, to raise money for The Meningitis Trust and Northampton General Hospital Intensive Care Unit.Despite an early injury to his Achilles tendon Craig has completed all five races, running his best time of 4.5 hours during the Shakespeare Marathon in Stratford-upon-Avon in May.Craig: “I’ve enjoyed all the races so far except the Belvoir Challenge in Melton Mowbray.  It was all cross-country and I had to negotiate stiles, cattle grids and gates so it was difficult to get a good flow of pace.  My favourite race so far was Brighton, where there were over 10,000 runners and big crowds.”Craig’s wife, Katie, and one year old daughter, Poppy, have been very supportive, attending each race and keeping Craig going by cheering him on at points along each route.Craig added: “It really helps to see Katie and Poppy along the way, especially during some of the smaller races when it can be difficult to stay motivated.”So far Craig has raised nearly £2,000 for the charities and SFS managing director, Bob Sweetland, has promised to donate an additional £100 each time Craig completes a race.Craig decided to raise funds for both charities as a thank you for their support when his wife Katie, 30, was diagnosed with Meningoencephalitis, an illness that attacks both the brain lining and brain stems, in 2008.  Fortunately Katie made a full recovery but many sufferers are not as lucky.To find out more about Craig’s challenge go to www.run12in12.co.ukAnyone wishing to sponsor Craig or donate to one of his chosen charities can do so at:To support the Meningitis Trust visit Craig’s  'Virgin just giving' site at www.virginmoneygiving.com/CraigFuller ?To support Northampton General Hospital visit?Craig’s 'just giving' site at www.justgiving.com/Craig-Fuller https://www.sfs.co.uk/5_Down_7_To_Go_Craigs_Marathon_Challenge_Continues--post--32.html 32 https://www.sfs.co.uk/admin/images/Katie,-Craig-and-Poppy-at-Race-1-Gloucester.jpg 2011-06-30 16:21:31 1 With picture left to right: Mark Pigott, Urbaser Project Manager with Cllr Graham Burgess, Deputy Leader Gosport Borough CouncilGosport Borough Council has been receiving positive feedback from residents since handing over the contract for its refuse collection and cleansing to Urbaser Ltd, a leading provider of waste collection, cleansing and treatment services. Urbaser’s vehicle partner is contract hire and fleet management company, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS).Stevyn Ricketts, Head of Streetscene, Gosport Borough Council said: “We were very specific about what we were looking for and the whole process was transparent.  Our aim is to deliver the contract under budget, and because the contract is performance related, it is in both parties interests to work efficiently.”Stevyn continued: “We were impressed with the quality of Urbaser’s response from the outset.  They think outside the box and add value wherever possible. The partnership with SFS is also a big strength.  Not only do we have more vehicles to do the job, we have better equipped vehicles, designed specifically to cope with compact, difficult to access areas.”Within just 8 weeks of the contract start date in April 2011 the authority was already receiving calls from residents commenting on a notably ‘cleaner borough’.  To demonstrate their commitment to service improvement, Urbaser will be funding a satisfaction survey on behalf of Gosport Borough Council in the future to monitor the ‘direction of travel’ regarding public opinion.As a demonstration of its commitment to work with local contractors and suppliers, Urbaser, a subsidiary of Urbaser SA the Spanish-owned waste management organisation, has already TUPE transferred nearly 70 members of staff from the authority.Javier Peiro, Director, Urbaser Ltd: “We are looking forward to showing how we can continually improve the collection and cleansing service in Gosport and deliver financial savings at the same time. We have been working in this sector for over 20 years and we can bring new and innovative ways of working. We are also very grateful to our vehicle partners, SFS, whose in-depth knowledge and expertise was invaluable in securing the contract.”The 10 year contract encompasses refuse collection and street cleansing and SFS is providing over 30 vehicles, including 7 Dennis Eagle rear steer RCV’s (2 standard width and 5 narrow width), Scarab sweepers, tippers and various maintenance vehicles.A member of the Rothschild Group, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd was founded in 1992 and is one of the UK’s most financially robust and established contract hire and fleet management providers.Bob Sweetland, managing director, SFS Ltd said: “We are delighted that Urbaser has chosen us as its vehicle partner for this prestigious contract.  It’s great to hear that the new and improved fleet is already having a positive impact on the collection and cleansing service in the Borough.”Cllr Graham Burgess, Deputy Leader of Gosport Borough Council, who was involved in the tendering process said: “The contract handover has been seamless.  We have superior vehicles and the new rear steer RCV’s from Dennis Eagle are perfect for manoeuvring around Gosport’s back alley’s and small streets. The streets are cleaner, the vehicles are cleaner and I’m very pleased by what Urbaser has achieved in such a short space of time. They were the worthy winners.” https://www.sfs.co.uk/Gosport_Residents_Impressed_With_New_Collection_Cleansing_Service--post--31.html 31 https://www.sfs.co.uk/admin/images/new_image_01.jpg 2011-06-29 16:20:24 1 Northampton-based municipal vehicle and plant contract hire experts, Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS), has joined forces with Business in the Community (BITC) as part of its commitment to forge links within the local community.SFS has trained and CRB checked 14 members of staff who have volunteered to visit a local primary school each week and assist the children with their reading activities. The volunteers work on a rota basis, with 4 employees visiting the school each week for 1 ½ hour sessions.BITC is responsible for bringing SFS and Duston Eldean Primary School, Northampton together as part of its Right to Read initiative.Bob Sweetland, managing director, SFS said: “We take our Corporate Social Responsibility seriously and we want to make a positive contribution within our local community. Right to Read is a fantastic initiative and I’m delighted to say that we weren’t short of volunteers coming forward to take part.”“We hope this will be the beginning of a long term partnership with the school.”Andy Stevenson Deputy Head of Duston Eldean Primary School said: “We wanted to develop links within the business community so we spoke to BITC and they put us in touch with SFS. Hearing individual children read is such a beneficial activity and boosts children’s reading skills and self-confidence.”“It’s also important that the children develop their interpersonal skills by meeting people from all walks of life, with different skills and jobs, to help us promote a good work ethic and prepare them for the future.”“The SFS volunteers have been so enthusiastic and the response from teachers and pupils has been excellent.”BITC Northamptonshire Community Impact Manager, Peter Coe said:“We help companies who are committed to being socially responsible and engage them in communities where there is the greatest need.  There are significant advantages to both parties when businesses and schools form partnerships. Schools get to build links with the business sector, an important source of support and advice for the future, and volunteering enriches an organisation and its employees.”“In every school where the Right to Read initiative exists, the schools report accelerated learning, in some cases up to one whole school year ahead. I congratulate SFS on their commitment to the Northamptonshire community and I hope that other organisations will follow their example.” https://www.sfs.co.uk/Specialist_Fleet_Services_Joins_Forces_with_Business_in_the_Community--post--27.html 27 https://www.sfs.co.uk/admin/images/Bob-Sweetland,-SFS-Ltd-with-Mrs-Cathy-Moore,-Head-Teacher,-Duston-Eldean-Primary-School.jpg 2011-03-09 16:10:48 1 Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS) welcomes Hyndburn Borough Council as a new customer after being awarded the contract to provide the authority with a new fleet of 6 new Dennis Eagle RCV’s.Dave Allonby, Head of Environmental Services, Hyndburn Borough Council said: “SFS were selected because they offered the best combination of price and quality.  During our negotiations they gave us the confidence that they could deliver on every level, as well as provide us with good support. In the short period of time that we have been dealing with SFS we are already impressed with their professionalism and the standard of service they provide.”Hyndburn Borough Council boasts excellent customer satisfaction levels with 95% of residents saying they are happy with the recycling and refuse collection service.Bob Sweetland, managing director, SFS said: “We are delighted to be working with Hyndburn and we look forward to developing a long-standing relationship.  The authority runs an excellent service and we are confident that we can contribute to maintaining these high standards.”  Specialist Fleet Services Ltd (SFS), vehicle and plant contract hire experts have been chosen by Aylesbury Vale District Council to provide their latest fleet of RCV’s, the third time that they have beaten off competition as part of the authority’s tender Framework Agreement.Aylesbury Vale District Council is reviewing its refuse and recycling collection service and the flexible approach demonstrated by SFS was a major factor in winning the tender.Andrew Wilkins, Head of Waste Services: “We, like many authorities, are undergoing a process of change and we need to be able to change our fleet in line with any future changes to our waste collection service.  We believe in open and honest discussion and SFS provide that.  The contract is not only extremely competitive with very favourable lease arrangements, but also gives us the ability to change vehicles before the end of term of the contract.”A member of the Rothschild Banking Group, SFS runs its own network of workshops and provides vehicle hire and fleet management services to the public and private sector, including maintenance, workshop management, service scheduling, compliance and testing, accident management, breakdown support, staff training and technical advice.Bob Sweetland, managing director, SFS: “We recognise that the current climate, and pending local elections, is causing a greater degree of uncertainty in authorities.  Flexibility is an increasingly important factor in tender negotiations, along with service quality, reliability, and price.  We work closely with our customers to find the right solution for them.”   https://www.sfs.co.uk/SFS_Wins_Contract_At_Hyndburn_And_Once_Twice_Three_Times_in_Aylesbury--post--26.html 26 https://www.sfs.co.uk/admin/images/hyndburn_borough_council.jpg 2011-03-01 16:09:06 1 With picture: Craig, with Katie and Poppy, in Gloucester following his first run on 23 JanuaryTHIS month Craig Fuller, a workshop administrator for Northampton based municipal vehicle and plant hire company Specialist Fleet Services Ltd, will run his second marathon out of the 12 he plans to complete this year.30 year old Craig set himself the challenge as a way of saying thank you to The Meningitis Trust and Northampton General Hospital Intensive Care Unit, for their help and support when his wife Katie, 30, was diagnosed with Meningoencephalitis back in 2008.  The illness attacks both the brain lining and brain stems, and can leave serious after-effects.Luckily Katie made a full recovery and the couple now has a 7 month old baby girl called Poppy.Craig: “We are very lucky.  Katie came out the other side and we can now live a normal life but other sufferers are not always as fortunate.”“I really wanted to do something to express my gratitude to the staff at Northampton General Hospital ICU for all their support during such a difficult time, and also to The Meningitis Trust who really helped me understand Katie’s illness.”“I also want to raise awareness about these two organisations and to help raise funds so that they can continue their invaluable work.”Craig completed his first race on 23 January in Gloucester in 4 ½ hours, which he was ‘very happy with’.  The next run takes place in Cambridge on 27 February and his colleagues at work are all rooting for him.A member of Business In The Community, one of The Princes’s Charities, SFS Ltd encourages its staff to ‘give back’ to the community. A recent initiative involves fourteen members of staff who have volunteered to be trained to help teach children to read in local schools.Bob Sweetland, managing director, SFS Ltd said: “We fully support Craig in his challenge and we will be publishing news of his progress on our website.  As an extra incentive we’ve pledged to donate £100 each time he completes a marathon.”To find out more about Craig’s challenge go to www.run12in12.co.ukAnyone wishing to sponsor Craig or donate to one of his chosen charities can do so at:To support the Meningitis Trust visit?Click on link for my 'Virgin just giving' site to  www.virginmoneygiving.com/CraigFuller?To support Northampton General Hospital visit?Click on link for my 'just giving' site www.justgiving.com/Craig-Fuller https://www.sfs.co.uk/A_Marathon_Thank_You--post--24.html 24 https://www.sfs.co.uk/admin/images/Katie,-Craig-and-Poppy-at-Race-1-Gloucester.jpg 2011-02-10 16:06:36 1 With picture L to R : Dave Sheppard, Technical Support Manager, SFS; Cllr Cartwright, Chair of the Direct Services Organisation Board, Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council;  Cllr Crooks, Lead Member – Waste and Street Cleansing, Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council; Matt Horwell, Sales Manager, Dennis Eagle; and Michael Brymer, Chief Officer, Hinckley & Bosworth Borough CouncilFOLLOWING recent public consultation Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council is ringing in the changes with the launch of their new refuse and recycling collection service this month.  To facilitate the new service the authority is replacing its existing Refuse Collection Vehicles (RCV’s) with a brand new fleet of Dennis Eagle RCV’s supplied by vehicle and plant contract hire experts Specialist Fleet Services (SFS).Mike Brymer, Chief Officer, Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council said: ”We went out and asked local people what kind of service they wanted and we listened to what they said.  Residents want less containers and more choice so we’re moving from a source segregated service to a new dual stream collection. As a result we’ve reduced the number of collection rounds, and the number of vehicles required, and have saved approximately £250,000.”SFS, a member of the Rothschild Banking Group, first started working with the authority in 2005 and were recently awarded the contract to supply a new fleet as well as maintain the vehicles.“We have a good working relationship with SFS because they understand our needs.  The contract offers great value for money.  We have a fleet of state of the art and fit for purpose vehicles, incorporating the latest safety and lighting technology, and a comprehensive fleet management and maintenance service that goes above and beyond our specification.”Bob Sweetland, managing director, SFS Ltd: “We’re delighted to have been selected as the supplier of choice and look forward to continuing working with Hinckley & Bosworth. As part of the contract we have installed a new ‘bells and whistles’ fleet management system, to ensure all the vehicles are fully compliant, serviced and well maintained at all times, as well as providing additional features such as fuel usage monitoring.”For the first time the authority has chosen RCV’s from Dennis Eagle -  8 x Olympus OL19 Narrow on Elite 2 6x2 Chassis with Terberg Omni-Del Xtra bin lift; and 1 x Dennis Twin Pack 50/50 on Elite 6x4 Chassis with Terberg bin lift. The contract also includes street cleansing and general purpose vehicles comprising a Scarab Magnum Sweeper and a Scarab Minor Sweeper, 6 x 3.5 tonne Transit Caged Tippers, a Transit Luton Van with tail-lift and 3 x Transit Connect vans.Mike Brymer continues: “We used to have a ‘mixed bag’ of vehicles and we acquired some Dennis /Terberg vehicles to operate as spare vehicles.  The combination proved to be popular with crews and the new vehicles can take a greater payload so we have also increased our capacity.”Richard Taylor, Head of Sales and Marketing, Dennis Eagle said: “We’re very excited to be providing vehicles to Hinckley & Bosworth, our neighbouring authority, and to be continuing our partnership with SFS.”To simplify the collection service Hinckley & Bosworth Borough residents now have an alternate black bin collection week for general waste and a recycling and composting week for cans, glass, paper, plastics, cardboard.  Drinks cartons and household batteries have also been added to the round, as a result of feedback from the public consultation.  To avoid any confusion amongst residents about what waste is being collected the council has gone a step further and colour coded the collection vehicles according to their load i.e. Green trucks collect green waste; blue trucks collect recycling and white trucks are for refuse.      https://www.sfs.co.uk/Hinckley_Bosworth_Rings_In_A_New_Collection_Service--post--23.html 23 https://www.sfs.co.uk/admin/images/SFS-001-Hinckley-&-Bosworth-Line-Up.jpg 2011-01-19 16:03:41 1