It's the end of an era for the industry THE
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DEATH of Chaddesley Commercials founder John May marks the "end of an era" in the road transport industry, according to his son.
May, who died aged 73 last Sunday (28 April) after a short illness, played a pivotal role with a handful of contemporaries in turning the UK second-hand truck market into what it is today.
The engineering apprentice, whose first job was at Austin Motor Company, found himself working at Leyland Trucks distributor Burton & Cole selling new products. Realising there was a market for the second-hand trucks traded in, he and business partner John Yardley set up Chaddesley Driers in 1974. It became so successful that within a few years May left to establish Chaddesley Commercials in Kidderminster on the Hoo Brook Trading Estate. Hoo Brook became synonymous with secondhand truck sales and, in its 1980s to early 90s heyday, four independent dealers offered more than 200 trucks at any one time for sale.
"He was very much his own man, which was why he was successful. He'll be missed greatly," his son Paul told CM "It's the end of an era."
Paul, who set up his own business, PM Commercials, 15 years ago, said Chaddesley Commercials would be wound up.
A date and location for the funeral has not been set, but those wishing to attend should contact Paul on paul@pmcommercials. co.uk or call 07836 779946.