I’m a service station expert – here is the worst location in the UK… it needs an urgent refresh

A DELIVERY driver who has visited almost 500 petrol stations has given his verdict on the worst deal in the UK.

Rich James Ross, 25, has spent £10,000 to pursue his unusual hobby of touring the road stops across the UK.

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In total, the Tesco delivery driver has visited 95 motorway service stations in the country, as well as more than 400 motorway service stations and service areas.

Rich, who clocks up more than 20,000 miles a year, admits even his own family and friends think he’s “absolutely insane”.

His top five service stations are Rugby Services, M6, Stafford South Services, M6, Fleet Services, M3, Strensham Services, M5 and Lancaster, M6.

But Rich has now named the gas station, which he thinks is at the other end of the scale.

He says Hartshead, on the M62 between Huddersfield and Bradford, is what he thinks is the worst petrol station in the UK.

Rich said: “Hartshead was rated the lowest in my opinion as it has separate facilities on either side of the M62 – Burger King on one side and KFC on the other – with an external footbridge used for the elements connecting both sides , is open.”

“They’re also one of the older locations on the freeway network, having opened in 1973 – they’re 50 years old this year.”

“Gas stations tend to perform poorly when they have poorly maintained toilet and shower facilities and long lines and waits at grocery stores.”

Rich has been on the road for five years and says he’s now recognized a lot.

He added: “I came across Motorway Services Online back in 2012 and became a huge fan of the site. When I finally had the chance to contribute, I knew I had a chance to do something no one else had.”

“I spend every Tuesday through Friday driving from county to county and attending four to five services a day, although some days I do end up in one place if it spans both sides of the street.”

“On average it costs me £10,000 a year for fuel, room and board.

“My personal belief is that a gas station must cater to everyone’s needs.”

Rich compared his hobby to trainspotting, but thought his enjoyment of gas stations might be more unique.

Last year The Sun revealed which motorway services were voted the best and worst in the UK.

A petrol station owner also claimed in November to own the UK’s most luxurious garage.

Welcome Break, which operates Hartshead services, has been contacted for comment.