Edward Stobart has died this morning as a result of heart problems in a hospital in Conventry, UK. The haulage firm, which he managed for over 30 years, was founded by his father in the 1950s and grew to become a much-loved part of trucking culture.

Stobart is survived by his wife and children. The Stobart Group issued a statement reading “It is with great sadness and regret that the Stobart Group shares the news that Edward, 56, has passed away”. It added, “Our thoughts are with his wife Mandy, his children and family at this difficult time”.

The company was sold to Stobart’s brother, William, and his business associate Andrew Tinkler seven years ago.

Having grown to become one of the largest haulage and logistics companies in UK, the sight of Stobart lorries on British motorways is commonplace and the company has garnered a multitude. The tradition of naming each of the Stobart lorry cabins with a female name began with the first fleet of four. This continued and resulted in the popular practise of spotting Stobart lorries and the formation of the Eddie Stobart fan club.

Reported by Claire Blackthorne.

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