The inaugural Wales Transport Awards 2019 has launched its search to recognise the industry's outstanding contributors in Wales.

This comes at a time when Wales' transport infrastructure is high on both the government's and the public's agenda. The awards, co-founded by Liz Brookes from Grapevine Event Management, will celebrate the best of the Welsh transport sector and will take place in November.

There are 13 categories which span customer care, excellence in technology, fleet of the year and recognition of businesses which have gone above and beyond in being environmentally responsible.

Sponsors include commercial vehicle specialists, Glenside Commercials, which has a base in Newport, headline sponsor Caldicot Group, one of the country's leading vehicle recovery agencies, which has a base in Caldicot.

Secretary of State for Wales Alun Cairns, said: “By removing the Severn tolls, the UK government has enabled unrestricted movement across the border, allowing the Welsh transport sector to flourish like never before. Employing more than 40,000 people, thriving Welsh transport companies keep the country moving and provide an important boost to the economy.

"These awards provide the perfect opportunity to highlight their outstanding work and recognise those who have gone above and beyond. I look forward to seeing the full list of nominees and wish all the hopeful businesses the very best of luck.”

Gavin Edwards, managing director, Caldicot Group, said: “Working within the sector supporting companies with their vehicle recovery needs, we know first-hand the tremendous contributions they make that are pivotal to the success of so many other businesses. We are looking forward to recognising all of their efforts at the awards in November.”

Denise Lovering, head judge and former chair of the Welsh Freight Council, said: “Having worked in transport for more than 25 years, it is clear to me that this sector is often overlooked and the work done by logistics as a whole, seriously under rated. It will be good to recognise their achievements and celebrate with the transport sector in Wales”.

For more details go to www.walestransportawards.co.uk.