A FIRM whose tanker drivers have launched 24-hour strike action over the sacking of one of their colleagues is standing by its decision.

Wincanton, which is based in Bridges Road, Ellesmere Port, says it makes “no apologies” for fully enforcing its health and safety guidelines.

Nearly 50 workers, who deliver fuel for BP Castrol, have formed a picket outside the premises in support of the driver who was dismissed for alleged use of a hand held mobile phone while driving a forty-tonne articulated vehicle back in March.

A spokeswoman for Wincanton said: “Wincanton places the health and safety of its staff, customers and the general public as its highest priority.

“In this instance a Wincanton employee was seen by a senior Wincanton manager driving his lubricants delivery vehicle on a motorway while using his mobile phone.

“Following this incident Wincanton instigated a full investigation as per its stringent Health and Safety guidelines, which all employees are bound by and are made fully aware of.

“As a result of this investigation the driver was dismissed for a serious breach of these guidelines. Wincanton makes no apologies for fully enforcing its health and safety guidelines and will continue to do so to ensure the safety of the general public, staff and employees.

“As a result of the industrial action that has taken place, Wincanton can confirm that no deliveries to customers have been affected.”