Hello All
My second shift has been in absolute contrast to the first, absolutely amazing. 
First run; collect lorry and full trailer for a tip at Normanton.
The company staff were brilliant and took me firmly under their wing. The lorry, a newish (09) Volvo FH I-shift that was clean and pulled like a good-un. The trailer, brand new kit and the curtains worked. The depot staff couldn’t help me enough.
Second run; collect another lorry and full trailer for a tip at Goole.
The company staff again brilliant. This time a slightly older (06) Daf XF 4/4 manual splitter that again was clean and pulled like a train with a new trailer.
In the end I was out for 11 ½ hours, which seemed to fly by even though there was quite a bit of waiting around to be tipped. This wasn’t so bad actually as I had a chance to chat to quite a few time-served drivers and a few of Stobbarts lads. As I suspected, it’s not quite as cushty as Trucks & Trailers! 
None the less it was nice to chat to the old school that are very helpful and patient with us new lads.
One very important lesson learned last night though. I felt quite proud of myself after spinning the truck round and making a near perfect reverse on to the loading dock inch perfect between the guide rails, job done or so I thought……then I remembered that I hadn’t opened the back door…der! 
I know that RDC’s are quite easy for manoeuvring around and backing up but at least you have plenty of space to cut your teeth.
I’ve just secured a couple of weeks work starting tomorrow pulling steel on days…. that’ll be fun! I’ll let you know how I get on.
RJ 