The recruitment firm Manpower has embarked on a recruitment drive for older truck drivers.

The firm believes older drivers are efficient workers and claims it would consider people as old as 90, using an annual medical check after the age of 65 to allay safety concerns.

John Evans, 70, (pictured with Manpower Driving’s business manager Chris Downtown), is among new drivers recruited by Manpower in a bid to overcome huge shortages in the industry.

A class 1 HGV driver with over 50 years’ experience, Evans recently signed up with Manpower in Bristol. He said he had previously been turned down by several other recruitment agencies.

“When I told the consultant my age he didn’t bat an eyelid. Much to my surprise and delight, within one day I was called with the offer of solid ongoing work,” he said.

Current statistics from the Freight Transport Association reveal the UK haulage industry is short of 40,000 drivers. This figure is expected to rise to 60,000 by next March. So far the oldest driver Manpower has recruited is believed to be a 76-year-old man from Sutton.

Quality and safety manager for Manpower Driving Tony Goacher said: “If someone at 90 had the right skills, there is no reason why we wouldn’t employ them. Older drivers bring great experience.”

Gareth Hughes, a spokesman for the DVLA, said: “As long as a driver is medically fit, even if they are 90 years of age then, yes, they would be allowed to work.”