Dorset-based quarry operator and aggregates merchants J Suttle Transport has become the 5,000th member of the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS).

It is the third milestone the best practice accreditation scheme has reached this year: it has already recognised its 1,000th FORS Silver and its 250th FORS Gold members.

Total FORS membership represents more than 112,000 trucks and vans throughout the UK and overseas.

John Hix, FORS director, said: “It’s a proud day for the FORS team, and all our members too.

"For everyone, in fact, who is connected with FORS and has worked tirelessly over the past 10 years to drive-up standards in the road transport sector.

"I can say confidently that there are 5,000 operators who are more efficient and more protective of the environment as a result of their FORS accreditation. But, above all, I know we have made our roads safer; safer for operators, safer for drivers, and safer for vulnerable road users and the wider public.”

For J Suttle Transport, FORS Bronze accreditation signals clear intent from the tipper operator to continue to embrace best practice and to improve all aspects of its operation.

The company runs a fleet of 13 eight-wheel and six-wheel tippers and flatbeds, along with 16 vans.