Ayrshire haulier David Blackhurst Transport has been stripped of its O-licence for 10 years, after fronting a rogue company.
Scottish Traffic Commissioner (TC) Joan Aitken disqualified the company and its director, David Blackhurst, of Elder Avenue, Girvan, on 2 June. The revoke was based on loss of repute, professional competence and use of unauthorised operating centres. The O-licence was for seven vehicles and six trailers.
The TC says: "I very much hope that all of the trade press takes great interest in this case and does not hesitate to report that Blackhurst has been engaged in the unlawful lending of an operator licence and aiding and facilitating a disqualified person, and that his behaviour was not that of an innocent, but of someone who knowingly and over time, colluded in disobeying the law."
A public inquiry (PI) revealed the firm was acting as a phoenix company for revoked operator James Murdoch, from Castle Douglas. He had been disqualified in 2007 for breaches of drivers' hours and tacho rules. Evidence exposed that Murdoch had been working with Blackhurst to get around the law.
A VOSA investigation began in October 2009, when a traffic officer stopped a truck registered and insured to Murdoch Transport. Murdoch confirmed he employed the driver.
It was concluded that David Blackhurst Transport had loaned, sold or was being used solely as a licence for Murdoch, to allow him to continue operating goods vehicles, since at least 24 February 2009.
The TC also deemed that transport manager Deborah Blackhurst had lost her repute, and that shareholder Jean Blackhurst must be heard at a PI for any business application or nomination. There was no attendance from the firm at the inquiry.
"Goods vehicle operating is there for public protection and fair competition, and those who undermine it harm their communities," Aitken concludes.
