ONE of two breakdown firms investigated for dishonesty has welcomed news they will not face criminal charges from the Crown Prosecution Service.

Newport-based Walls Truck Services was under investigation for allegations of overcharging, theft of property and damage to vehicles while it operated the Gwent Police vehicle recovery scheme.

Walls, along with WG Lane of Abergavenny, had the contract to recover vehicles stranded on the motorway or as the result of a road accident, when the allegations were made. Now the CPS has decided not to bring charges against either company.

Dean Smith, police liaison officer for Walls, said the firm had co-operated fully with the police throughout the investigation.

He added that, although they knew they were innocent of any wrongdoing, they were relieved that members of the public could now be made aware of it too.

He said: "We were quite confident from an early stage that we would be completely exonerated of any dishonesty. When you are under the spotlight, there is concern that people can form their own opinions and because of the nature of the inquiry, it wasn't appropriate for us to give any official comment. As a result, all coverage in the media had to be one-sided.

"Obviously we are very pleased that the result can now be publicised to members of the public of Gwent."

The CPS in Wrexham had taken over the investigation, as Gwent's chief prosecutor, Chris Woolley, was keen to ensure the public were satisfied that it was impartial and unbiased.

North Wales CPS chief Paul Whittaker's decision not to proceed with a prosecution came as Walls and Lane were refused an extension on their temporary contract with Gwent Police.

The contract, which began on a six-month basis in July, expires on December 31 and all other members of Gwent Recovery Group involved have been asked to renew their tenure.

One, Dragon Rescue, has pulled out in support of the excluded firms, leaving just one, Hillcroft, able to deal with motorway incidents.

As Walls "considers its response" to the police ruling, Mr Smith said: "We always believed that Walls are a professional recovery business and we have always endeavoured to supply and fulfil our role as a professional recovery service."