He said: ‘While we are always happy to share our views on market sentiment, what’s good, what’s bad, predictions and valuations, there’s nothing better than getting in the thick of it and seeing it for yourself.

‘So when Fleet and Contract Hire decision makers ask me what is the market doing, I invariably invite them down to a BCA sale where all these answers are given first-hand by the auction hall that day. Almost without exception those that do come say it is one of the most informative days they have ever spent! One thing that immediately becomes apparent when you attend an auction is the variety in the marketplace.

Twenty years ago you either had an Escort or Marina, Transit or Sherpa.

‘Today you have got every manufacturer represented with good vans, modern car-like technology, powerful yet frugal engines, side loading doors even on car sized vans, power assisted steering, air conditioning, metallic paint, roof heights, a variety of wheelbases and purpose built small vans such as the Connect and Kangoo.

‘No wonder the used market is so busy,’ Ward concluded.