Iconic lorry firm founder Eddie Stobart dies aged 95

The founder of one of the UK’s most iconic lorry firms has died at the age of 95, his family announced.

Eddie Pears Stobart died on November 25 at the age of 95 after founding his family business in 1946.

The agricultural business initially distributed fertiliser, but pivoted to haulage, allowing them to own more than 2,700 vehicles and dominating UK roads.

Stobart drivers were known for wearing collars and ties, and waving and honking their horns when waved at.

The firm also named every truck they owned after women – including names such as Maggie, Rosie, Karina, and even Angharad.

The business was estimated to be worth more than £100 million before financial difficulties in the 2000s.

The firm also had dedicated fans – including one fanatic who amassed Britain’s largest collection of toy lorries.

James Bonnett, 24, spent over £11,000 collecting over 300 model trucks as well as other memorabilia relating to the haulage legend.

On average, the larger trucks cost £80 while the smaller models are around £20, but he has spent up to £180 on collectable items.

Aside from spotting, James also runs a Stobart Facebook group and uploads stop animation video stories of his model trucks to YouTube, attracting 890 subscribers.

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk.

For more stories like this, check our news page.