BREW DARES WINS!

Pubs in plea to the Special Ale Service

SOLDIERS are set to be drafted in to keep pints flowing at Britain’s bars amid a trucker shortage.

The Federation of Wholesale Distributors says the lack of lorry drivers is so severe troops must be put on standby.

Chief executive James Bielby warned: “The situation’s reached crisis point and it is likely to get worse as hospitality venues open and demand increases.

“We suggest that the government considers having Army trucks on standby to ensure there are enough vehicles and drivers to distribute food.”

Mr Bielby estimates Britain is facing a shortfall of 70,000 HGV drivers.

The Road Haulage Association said Covid has led to no new HGV drivers being trained for a year.

Pub and restaurant chains are already not getting enough fresh produce delivered to meet demand.

Tim O’malley, of fruit and veg supplier Nationwide Produce, said: “Supermarket shelves and restaurant plates are empty and this is now a crisis of national importance.”