THE latest book by transport author Robin Masters 'From Live Loads to Wide Loads' chronicles the first 50 years of Allelys Transport, in Studley.

It is the story of the rise of an extra-ordinary man Maurice Allely who from humble beginnings but with determination, foresight and maybe a bit of luck, founded the major heavy haulage firm.

From the early days as an agricultural contractor and a round the clock job, Mr Allely built the business up, along the way doing many shrewd deals, and noticing gaps in the transport business, especially in the field of heavy haulage and continental delivery, which evolved into Allelys Transport. 

This involved as one part of the business the movement of railway locomotives, carriages, and wagons all over the country and the firm is now a favourite mover for preserved railways. Mr Allely was always hands-on and drove many of the loads including continental journeys of which there are some great stories in the book.

An interesting part of the book is stories from the employees of the firm, and their interaction with Mr Allely, also the excerpts from the company newsletter, which make hilarious reading. The book is illustrated with images from the very first days and the many wide loads carried, right up to date with the current computer controlled trailers.

Sadly Mr Allely died just after the book was published, but his sons are carrying on the business and people can still see the distinctive blue livery of Allelys Heavy Transport in action on the roads.

The book can be obtained by contacting the author Robin Masters on 07790214182 or Coach House Books, High St. Pershore on 01386 552801. It is priced £13 and all profits will go to Marie Curie Cancer Care.