Eddie Stobart (1929-2024): The Christian businessman behind Britain’s most iconic lorry firm

Keith Danby pays tribute to Eddie Stobart, the founder of one of Britain’s most recognisable haulage companies

Eddie Stobart, known for his visionary work in haulage, agriculture, and the construction of the M6 motorway, has died, aged 95. Stobart leaves behind a legacy that extends beyond his business empire, reflecting his deep Christian faith and commitment to spreading the gospel.

Though many will remember him as a successful businessman, what can be said for the legacy he left as a man of God? Eddie was someone I knew well - and worked with on a number of projects in Cumbria. He comes from a family who are steeped in Christian heritage. His mother and father, Adelaide and John Stobart, were farmers and devout Methodists. His mother died when Eddie was just 12 years old and, two years later, he left school to work on their family smallholding in Hesket Newmarket, Cumbria.