The Freight Operator Recognition Scheme (Fors) has launched a Governance and Standards Advisory Group (GSAG) to champion the direction and integrity of the initiative as it expands across the UK.

It will ensure the scheme's remit remains up-to-date with industry requirements and changing legislation, while ensuring industry support for Fors and safeguarding its standards and brand.

Initially, the group will comprise four standing members, a representative from TfL, and a nominee from the three partnership organisations that now head-up Fors since its move to private management in February: concessionaire Aecom, CILT and Fleet Source.

MD Jacqueline O’Donovan from O’Donovan Waste Disposal, which recently achieved Fors gold status for the fourth consecutive year, is one of the GSAG’s inaugural members.

O’Donovan said of Fors: “Being part of Fors has helped us continually improve our operations and investment in our fleet, as the information and support we receive is invaluable.”

Further appointments to the group are expected to be made from a range of businesses and interested operators to provide a broad range of expertise and knowledge.

The first GSAG meeting will take place later this week (15 May).

Fors last month celebrated its 3,000th member milestone since its launch in by TfL in 2008.