H J Lea Oakes is one of the longest established, independent animal feed manufacturers in Britain, with a history dating back to 1675. The family-owned company, which has been serving the farming community for fifteen generations, recently put two new Volvo FM-420 8×4 Tridems into service – the first trucks of this configuration to join the mostly Volvo fleet.
Both trucks operate out of the H J Lea Oakes animal feeds mill at Aston, near Nantwich. Their area of operation encompasses North-West England, including the Peak District and extends to cover the whole of Wales. The trucks were supplied by Thomas Hardie Commercials at Middlewich.
“We were impressed with the versatility and manoeuvrability of the Volvo FM Tridem,” reports H J Lea Oakes’ Managing Director Edward Lea. “As we deliver to a wide cross-section of farms, some in remote areas with tight access, we find that – due to its height and size – the FM’s cab is well-suited for our type of work.”
Both trucks were specified with the D13K, 13-litre engine rated 420hp and I-Shift automated gearboxes.
Both are fitted with Muldoon Transport Systems bodywork, one of which is a five-compartment design.
