Lorry drivers are planning to bring traffic to a halt at Easter in protest over the Government's increase in diesel prices and vehicle excise duty.

John Tye and Gordon Stacey plan to head a convoy of lorries driving slowly from Harwich along the A120, A12, round the M25 and back on Easter Saturday.

Mr Tye, of Harwich Road, Little Oakley, has been an owner-driver for 17 years and had hoped to buy a new lorry and employ another driver but has had to scrap his plans.

And if the Government does not reverse its decision, he may have to look for another job.

Mr Stacey, of Douglas Road, Clacton, has been an owner-driver for ten years and his son Karl has been his partner for the past three.

But now he is taking one lorry off the road and Karl is having to find another job.

Mr Stacey said: "Hauliers are facing oblivion. I'm not a militant, but I can see the past ten years being all for naught." Mr Tye said that following the tax increases in the Budget, road tax was going up from £1,500 to £2,500 and diesel is going to cost him £250 a month.

Lorry drivers brought London to a standstill in a similar protest yesterday.

They say they cannot compete with continental haulage firms which pay less road tax and have cheaper fuel.

Yesterday This Is Essex reported Harwich International was being mothballed on Friday with the loss of 13 jobs because it can no longer meet its costs.

The Government claims European firms pay more in labour and corporate taxes.

But Transport Minister John Reid has pledged to hold a forum to address the concerns of the haulage industry.

Mr Tye and Mr Stacey are producing campaign posters. To join their convoy, call Mr Tye on 07971 645725 or Mr Stacey on 0585 225045.

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