Recruitment company the Agency Drivers Register (ADR) has announced a rise in turnover for the period May 2002 to May 2003.

Turnover rose from £5.8m at year-end 2002 to £12.9m the following year. Profit margins slipped by 1.5%, however.

ADR said it plans further growth in the next financial year. It is actively recruiting after an increase in productivity in the last year.

Director Emma Guyton said: “A strong team ethic and a positive approach kept us on track.”

But the sector is still suffering a major shortage of drivers. There were more drivers leaving than joining the sector, said managing director Keith Churchhouse.

Although its reputation for long hours and low pay were changing, drivers still faced road problems, abuse and poor treatment from employers and the public, he said.