HCR makes a swift recovery of stranded PSVs thanks to its 'new' Volvo FH wrecker. Biglorryblog is impressed by that under-reach!

And here it is. And I have that slack-jawed idler Agent Reg to thank for sending me these 'special' pictures of the smart new Volvo wrecker now being operated by HCR, the coach and LGV recovery specialists based in Hucknall, Nottinghamshire. And not only is the FH-460 "ideal for its job," according to company owner and co-director, Peter Spencer, but it's also been wowing the crowds at various industry shows too.

"This is our 4^th Volvo," Peter tells me, "and we find them to be ideal for our job. They offer good pulling power, they're very reliable, the lads like to drive them and they hold their value well. They also look good, which is important for the company image; this one has just won the Best Presented Heavy Recovery Vehicle at the Belvoir show!"

Now here's an interesting bit too... As the truck was bought used, as an 05 plated 4x2 tractor unit, and was converted by bodybuilders Boniface who fitted a Pioneer lift axle and a three-stage folding H-boom with a low lying crosshead - "perfect for going under the latest buses," Peter adds. The body itself is in stainless steel and features a multi-locker layout - to accommodate a full range of tools, spares, recovery equipment and emergency kit - as well as a 5^th wheel towing attachment. The cab is a Globetrotter XL in 'Comfort' trim, equipped with air conditioning, CD player, fridge and safe.

Given their repair and recovery expertise, HCR will be handling the bulk of the maintenance on the new Volvo themselves. However, they'll be relying on Volvo Dealerpoint Hartshorne (East Midlands) at Alfreton for parts and technical support. "We get very strong back-up from Hartshorne," says Peter. "They've been very good to us!" So you might say MCR has got a lift from Volvo... Yes? OK I'll get me coat...