A Ledbury company has joined the UK's hazardous goods pallet and parcel network.

Transport and logistics specialist, ABE Ledbury, has strengthened its services by partnering with The Hazchem Network, the only network of its kind in the UK.

The Palletline Logistics-owned company will take over the duties of two former The Hazchem Network members, covering HR, LD, SY7-8 and GL14-19 postcodes.

This new service has recently been launched.

Joining the network allows ABE to expand its services, now including the transport of diverse items, ranging from paints to cylinders of flammable gases.

To manage this new venture, the company has assigned 12 drivers to the task.

They are currently undergoing extensive training to achieve ADR (Accord Dangerous Routier– the European Agreement concerning the transport of hazardous goods) accreditation.

Additionally, ABE has equipped some of its vehicles with features such as fire extinguishers, orange plates, and provided drivers with specialist gear like kit bags, respirators, shovels and spill kits to ensure they can safely handle hazardous cargo.

The company has also ensured additional support and advice from the Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor of Palletline when needed.

Operating since 2005, The Hazchem Network transports more than 2,000 pallets and parcels throughout the UK mainland and islands every night, including services to 27 European countries.

Clive Brooks, managing director of ABE, identifies the potential behind this new venture.

He said: "This new service will potentially be of benefit to new customers as well as our existing customers.

"Most companies prefer their consignments to be transported by as few carriers as possible.

"By joining The Hazchem Network we are creating new opportunities with customers we may previously have not been able to support."

Rob Symes, Hazchem Network MD, said: "ABE has a reputation for providing a fantastic service and looking after its customers.

"We have seen how Clive and his team have prepared for joining the network and we have no doubt that ABE will prove a to be great member."

The Hazchem Network, with more than 60 members, who are all full-ADR hauliers, guarantee a reliable and secure means for moving chemicals throughout the UK, Ireland, and Europe.