A national forklift drivers' competition will be held over the three days of the IMHX 2004 exhibition next March.

Conference organisers said the contest "aims to attract the UK's most proficient forklift drivers", and would promote the importance of the driver in overall efficiency and safety.

The competition will be in the exhibition halls and is expected to be a centrepiece of interest on each day of the show, which runs from March 2 to March 4. A specially-designed course will assess drivers' skills based on speed, accuracy and safe driving practice.

Exhibition director Richard Hease said organisers were "planning to set new standards for content and value for exhibitors and visitors.

"This is a very exciting, new concept for the event that puts direct focus on the importance of forklift drivers. Many of our major exhibitors have identified how drivers play a vital role in operating efficiency and cost."

Other new initiatives for IMHX 2004 include knowledge zone, which is three theatres with continuous presentation programs covering current affairs, case studies and new products and services.

Companies interested in participating in the IMHX truck driver competition should contact IMHX or log onto www.IMHX2004.co.uk.