Nova Contracting is calling for more women to pursue a commercial driving career as the demand for drivers grows.

An estimated 45,000 drivers are currently needed in the UK, but very few vacancies are filled by women.

Only around 1% of the 20,000 temporary drivers on Nova Contracting’s books are women, which reflects the national average.

Marcus Green, director of Nova Contracting, said: “There are some signs that more women are considering professional driving careers, but there is still a long way to go.”

He continued: “We’re working with recruitment agencies across the UK to help meet the demand both now and into the New Year returns and sale period. But without newly-qualified professional drivers coming into the industry as older drivers retire, the challenge will only increase.

“Women need to see the professional driver industry as a viable and rewarding career path, with a wealth of opportunities.”