Street Wise

Few haulage contractors have the long-standing presence or good reputation to have a road named in its honour. T&D heads to Sibbald’s Brae, Bathgate, to visit a traditional operator with the skills and experience to deliver 21st century haulage

- John Henderson

THERE’S not much that phases Russell Sibbald, joint owner of D&J Sibbald. After spending 54 years onboard at the haulage company, founded in 1933 by his father and uncle, Russell has probably seen it all. After starting driving lorries in 1966, he moved into the office just two years later. Since then Russell has managed this operation with his brother Ralph, who looks after the fleet’s maintenance.

Now at 72 years young, Russell is reaping the benefits of bringing his driver, David Joyce into the traffic office. “David decided to give the office a try back in 2016 and thankfully he’s still here. His appointment has taken the pressure off me and nowadays I can get back on the road and do the occasional local delivery or help out with a changeover at The Fleece in Carlisle,” he reports.

Russell still makes the big business decisions, but in his absence, he’s happy to leave day to day operations to David.

David’s father has driven with D&J Sibbald for 15 years and his own ten years experience behind the wheel of a D&J Sibbald Scania proved useful when he moved into the traffic office.

“Life moves at a quick pace in the office and I’m not chained to a desk, as there is often loading or unloading to help with in the yard or the warehouse. Everything can change with a phone call and there are no two days the same,” David confirms.

With 87 years experience of general haulage under their belts, the Sibbald family have built up an unequalled reputation for service levels.