Meet Bobby Dazzler, the oldest truck in the Energas fleet

There is a distinct smell of nostalgia in the air in Hull’s East Park when, each summer, a generous collection of vintage vehicles gathers to compete in a popular road rally. Yorkshire’s East Coast Run is the go-to event for vintage truck enthusiasts and curious visitors who want to see these engines in classic action and nose around Britain’s commercial vehicles from yesteryear. And taking pride of place among the old double-decker buses, agricultural tractors and period fire engines is our very own Bobby Dazzler – the oldest lorry in the Energas fleet!

Our Pride and Joy
Bobby is a mint-condition 1956 ERF 54G truck that our previous Managing Director, Alfred Robinson, bought back in 2001. Every year, Bobby competes in the East Coast Run, a 30-mile convoy of rare and unusual vehicles that rolls from Hull to Bridlington, giving passers-by a view with a difference. And while Bobby doesn’t like to toot his own horn (groan), he certainly makes an impact. We’re proud to say that last year, he won third prize for best vehicle in his category. Go Bobby!

The Challenge of Maintenance
Keeping a 60-year-old truck in mint condition is challenging and you really cannot underestimate the cost and time associated with preserving an older vehicle. Lucky for us, our expert vehicle technicians do a sterling job, not only in keeping Bobby driveable, but also in keeping his outsides looking as good as his insides. Sourcing spares is no mean feat for a 1950’s vehicle and, like anything, there are health and safety standards to consider. Our mechanics are so dedicated and enthusiastic, we cannot thank them enough.

Fun fact: Bobby is ancient by vehicle standards and mostly gets a ride out only once a year. But a few years ago, he was used as a hearse for an employee!

Proud Programme Sponsors
Now in its 52nd year, the East Coast Run is one of the most popular days out on the local calendar. From humble beginnings for a few buses only, the event now attracts hundreds all vehicles with ambulances, motorcycles, scooters, military vehicles and more showcased, as well as stalls and rides for children. Mr Robinson used to drive him on the East Coast Run himself back in the early days. When his health deteriorated, the guys from our garage team took over, keeping up this much-loved tradition on behalf of the Energas family. Bobby is now revving up for the 52nd annual run which takes place on Sunday, 14 June 2020. If you want to see Bobby in the environment he was designed for – the open road – then come and cheer him as he passes. Then pop along to Sewerby Fields where you can get up close and personal with this classic truck. Energas are proud programme sponsors for the event and, as ever, we will be represented on the day by Bobby and our passionate team.