The Road Less Traveled: My Journey with Bibbys (Later Menzies Transport)

In the hustle and bustle of my life working full-time with the Met, there was something missing—a void that only the open road, the hum of a truck's engine, and the freedom of travel could fill. It was an adventure that called to me, a siren's song that I couldn't resist. This is the story of my unique stint with Bibbys, later known as Menzies Transport, where I discovered that sometimes, the road less traveled leads to the greatest adventures.

My fascination with the world of trucking began when I obtained my license in the late '90s. Since then, I've always had a part-time gig on the side, even during my tenure in the army. It wasn't about the money; it was the sheer thrill of hitting the road, the freedom it offered, and the ever-changing scenery. Whether I was driving trucks or cruising on my motorcycle, these experiences were a form of meditation for me.

My journey with Bibbys Distribution began almost by accident. Biggleswade, the Bibbys Distribution hub, was a 45-minute drive from my home in Enfield. I had a rule - never work in London. The whole point of this part-time gig was to escape the city and its chaos. After a brief check of my license and a quick test of my knowledge of driver's hours, they handed me the keys to an MAN TGA, an 18-plate automatic box tractor unit. I was then assigned a trailer, hitched it up, and set off on my deliveries.

The experience was nothing short of exhilarating. The freedom of the road, the responsibility of transporting goods, and the sense of adventure all blended seamlessly. I cherished every moment. Over the years, I found myself returning to Bibbys (which was later taken over by Menzies) whenever the opportunity arose. The change in livery name and the introduction of new trucks, including newer models of the MAN TGA, only added to the excitement.

Working for them was an absolute pleasure. Most of my collections and deliveries took me to the east end of the country—a place of flat lands, beautiful landscapes, and the refreshing scent of the sea breeze. It was a lifestyle I grew to adore.

One particular memory that stands out was when I was instructed to drive into a car park because the residential road had no room for trucks. I vividly recall the relief of finding the car park empty, making it easy for me to turn around and exit unscathed. It's those unexpected challenges that make the life of a trucker so interesting.

My time with Menzies eventually gave way to a full-time position with Alcaline, a decision I don't regret, but the memories of those days on the road with Bibbys and Menzies continue to linger. The adventures, the landscapes, and the sense of freedom I experienced during my part-time trucking gig will forever hold a special place in my heart. They were more than just jobs; they were journeys into the unknown, and I wouldn't trade those experiences for anything in the world.