Skelton Plant Hire has continued its working relationship with Andover Trailers, purchasing two new bespoke-built plant bodies.

The new bodies, mounted to 32-tonne 8x2 rear-steer DAF CF rigids, were bought as replacements for two of the company's existing vehicles, which also had Andover bodies.

Tim Skelton, Managing Director at Skelton Plant Hire, said: "We've stuck with Andover because the product is fantastic – it doesn't break, it doesn't bend, it just keeps going. Though we thought at one stage about replacing the older trucks, we've kept them on fleet as all three are still running fine. Indeed, the bodywork is in perfect working order, which considering the amount of work they do is mightily impressive!"


The new custom-built bodies feature Andover's trademark low-profile deck, which sees the cross members transect the body runners, instead of simply sitting on top. This low height, combined with the trucks' rear steer capability, makes it possible to access both tight country lanes and tricky urban sites that would otherwise prove difficult with a 32-tonner.

A double crank beavertail is also connected to a pair of 2.5m long hydraulic power toe ramps, alongside a 3.5-tonne hydraulic winch which aids loading and unloading. The eight pairs of lashing points on the deck offer maximum load security and flexibility, while Andover's working at height system provides additional safety.

The vehicles will predominantly be used to make deliveries throughout London and the south east, as well as handling selected work for established clients nationwide and in mainland Europe.

The new trucks will be on the road six days a week, clocking up between 125,000km and 150,000km a year.