On Armistice Day, when the nation comes together to remember its fallen heroes, one Essex-based family business has taken a unique and heartfelt approach to honouring the past while supporting a noble cause. The latest addition to the fleet of John A Probert, Sons & Grandsons—a family-run firm that has served the region for decades—has been transformed into a striking tribute to both the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal and the Probert family’s deep-rooted history of service and charity.
The new Mercedes-Benz Arocs, now rolling across the roads of Essex, is a symbol of dedication and remembrance. Draped in an eye-catching livery of vibrant, flowing fields of poppies, the truck’s full length pays homage to the soldiers who fought for freedom, while intricately airbrushed soldiers stand watch on either side of the cab. The design, as purposeful as it is striking, is not just a vehicle, but a statement—one that will continue to capture attention and support throughout the year, not only on Remembrance Day.
Joe Probert, the proprietor of the family business, explains the inspiration behind this exceptional tribute: “We wanted to do something special with this vehicle to reflect our ongoing support of the Poppy Appeal. We make a big effort to promote the campaign every year and we hope this truck will help focus attention on a very worthy cause, not just on and around the 11th of November, but for the rest of the year too.”
Honouring Family and Fallen Soldiers
This tribute holds profound personal significance for the Probert family. Joe’s grandfather, Alf, served in the Army during World War II and was wounded in combat, while his father, John, known affectionately as ‘Turfy’, built the family business from the ground up. In 1980, John founded John A Probert, Sons & Grandsons, initially focused on supplying turf and topsoil with a wheelbarrow and spade. His unwavering support for charities benefiting ex-service personnel, notably the Poppy Appeal, has been passed down to Joe, who now runs the operation.
“My Dad was a huge supporter of the Poppy Appeal and since he died, we’ve continued that effort in his memory,” Joe says. “So, the new truck and its livery are our way of paying tribute to Dad as well as to the former soldiers that were so close to his heart.”
The Arocs not only carries the family’s legacy but also serves as a testament to Joe’s ongoing commitment to supporting the Poppy Appeal. It proudly features the nickname ‘Turfy’ along with the years of John Probert’s life, 1949-2021, ensuring his presence is felt with every mile the truck travels.
The Workhorse Behind the Tribute
The Arocs 2532, supplied by Motus Truck & Van, is more than just a moving memorial. With its robust specifications, it stands as a true workhorse for the Probert family’s operations. The 6×2 configuration is equipped with a ClassicSpace L-cab and dropside bodywork, making it versatile for the firm’s various tasks. The rear-mounted Fassi F155 crane with Kinshofer grab ensures the truck is fully equipped for heavy lifting and precise material handling, a key requirement for their landscaping business.
At the heart of the Arocs is a 7.7-litre in-line six-cylinder engine that delivers a reliable 235 kW (320 hp). The engine’s efficiency and power are key factors in the truck’s reputation as both reliable and cost-effective—traits that are crucial for any business in the construction and landscaping industry.
Joe Probert is particularly pleased with the vehicle’s performance: “We’ve spent a lot on this vehicle, but I have to say it looks fantastic. The Arocs is a real workhorse too, and well proven to be reliable and cost-effective. Motus Truck & Van look after us very well – Sales Consultant Steve Jenkins understands our business and always helps us get the specification of both the chassis and all ancillaries just right. We couldn’t be happier.”
Continuing a Legacy of Service and Support
This special Arocs serves as more than just a tribute to the past; it embodies a commitment to service and support that spans generations. Through their dedication to the Poppy Appeal, the Probert family ensures that the sacrifices made by soldiers—both past and present—are never forgotten. As this striking tribute continues to travel the roads of Essex and beyond, it will no doubt draw attention to the Royal British Legion’s ongoing efforts to support veterans, while also cementing the Probert family’s lasting legacy of generosity and community involvement.
For Joe Probert, it’s about honouring his father’s memory, supporting a worthy cause, and keeping the family’s traditions alive, one mile at a time. The Mercedes-Benz Arocs may be a remarkable vehicle in its own right, but in the hands of John A Probert, Sons & Grandsons, it’s a powerful symbol of remembrance and resilience.
