Ice cream van drivers across South Yorkshire 'feeling the pinch' from the cost-of-living crisis
Many in the industry say they've been forced to hike up the price of their products because of the cost-of-living crisis
Ice cream van drivers across South Yorkshire tell us they're 'feeling the pinch' as the cost-of living-crisis continues to affect local businesses.
With fuel prices on the rise, many in the industry say it's getting tougher to keep their vehicles running.
Wayne Caley's been selling ice creams on the streets of Sheffield for the last two years.
He's feeling uncertain about what the future holds:
"When the recession is hitting the ice cream man on the street, you can't help but recognise the country is in a bit of a mess financially.
"I can't hike my prices up any more than I have.
"I'll end up with no customers otherwise, as people just can't afford an ice cream anymore.
"It used to cost me about £15 to drive around the communities I serve, but that's doubled".
Mr. Caley says just about everything has increased in price over the last few months:
"The ground rent has gone up 50% compared to last year due to the energy bills increase.
"Loads of things have changed-the stock increase, fuel, road taxes, insurances; it all adds up.
"We can feel the pinch definitely on the streets.
"Everyone's just being a little bit cautious, which is understandable.
"People have got their bills to pay as well, and we're just a bit of a treat for people.
"It's not a necessity is it, so we're struggling for sure.
"Who knows what the situation will be like for us next year?"