THE Co-op is looking to tackle the issue of declining van driver numbers by introducing a new training scheme for workers at their Lea Green depot.

Across the UK there is just one driver joining the industry for every six that leave but the Co-op is looking to buck this trend by training 25 staff in St Helens without any experience to get behind the wheel.

Warehouse to Wheels is a comprehensive eight week programme costing almost £2,000 per employee which will see workers at eight Co-op food depots training to become light goods vehicle (LGV) drivers.

Once they have gained their LGV class two licence they will have a choice of becoming a full time driver or joining a pool where they remain in the warehouse but will be available to drive at peak times when needed.

Chris Whitfield retail and logistics director at Co-op Food said: "Our Warehouse to Wheels programme is a great example of how we are committed to developing the talent we already have and it will help us counter a potential shortage of drivers by steadily increasing our LGV pool.

"It will enable those who want to become full time drivers while others can continue to work in the warehouse with the option of topping up their pay by working certain shifts as a driver."