My Blue Heaven

M.A. Ponsonby’s immaculate Scania S580 scooped the Best Scania in the Village title at Convoy in the Park, reflecting the haulier’s professional approach to business

- Bob Beech

 

First impressions count, particularly when it comes to a company’s livery and the state of its trucks. Some operators spend hours choosing a livery while others, often those with smaller budgets, stick with the colour their first truck came in, especially if they are buying a used vehicle.

West Midlands-based Mike Ponsonby took the latter option early in his transport career when he bought a used truck from a mate and was rather taken with its particular shade of blue. He has continued to use blue as the dominant colour for his beautifully presented fleet of Scania tractor units and rigids.

Mike’s grandfather started D.J. Ponsonby Removals in the 1960s and with other family members built it into a substantial operation with a fleet of well turned out trucks. That business closed in the 1990s, but his relatives now run separate transport operations.

Starting out as an owner-driver in March 2003, Mike bought a Renault Magnum from his former boss Alan Taylor and started trading as M.A. Ponsonby. Over the years he built up the business, expanding the customer base and specialising in flat trailers, step-frames and low beds, moving all types of plant, machinery and vehicles.

Thirty years ago describing flat trailers with sheeted and roped loads as a niche market would have seemed ridiculous, but the move to curtainside, box and fridge trailers means that very few fleets today have either the equipment or, more importantly, the drivers with the skills and motivation to carry out this type of work.

Fortunately, Mike and his team are experts and take pride in working to the highest possible standards: no loose flapping sheets or ropes over the flysheet, everything is spot-on and a credit to the Ponsonby operation.

Smart and practical