Hopkins Estates fields an FMX fit for a king

Wincanton-based Hopkins Estates has taken delivery of a new Volvo FMX 420 8×4 tipper which has been wrapped in a special livery to mark King Charles III’s coronation.

Local firm Goodwin Graphics created the eye-catching red, white and blue camo artwork featuring a specially-designed logo to commemorate the historic day.

Supplied by Truck and Bus Wales and West, the FMX eight-wheeler will be used for aggregates delivery and muckaway work across Somerset, Dorset and Wiltshire.

The FMX is fitted with a Charlton steel tipper body which comes with a Union Jack rollover sheet to finish off the truck’s patriotic look.

“We wanted to celebrate this major landmark in our nation’s history with something a little special and the new truck was the perfect opportunity,” said Bill Hopkins, Hopkins Estates MD.

“It was our own 50th anniversary last year and we marked that with a special gold-liveried tipper which really stood out from the crowd. But this coronation truck looks even better! The red, white and blue gives it a special regal finish.

“Our business has a rich history in farming – a common interest we know is shared with His Majesty. The King is a regular visitor to our corner of the country and we hope he likes this small gesture to celebrate his official reign as our new Monarch.”

The eight-wheeler arrives at Hopkins Estates as the first of a wider 32-truck order, which includes four volumetric concrete mixers and is part of a transition away from another manufacturer.

“We’ve made a major commitment with Volvo. The coronation truck is the first tipper to arrive and we’re excited to start putting the new fleet to work,” adds Hopkins. “The previous model FMX tipper we bought as a demonstrator made a huge impression.”

The new FMX tipper is expected to work five to six days a week.