Oxford-based family-run haulage firm in its 100th year

John Werrell & Son Ltd traces its origins back to 1926, when John Werrell entered the haulage trade alongside his son, Frank, both working as Foden drivers.

The business quickly established itself, but like many operators of the time, faced early challenges.

First John Werrell & Son lorry (Image: John Werrell & Son)

By 1929, the company had survived the General Strike and invested in a new six-wheeled Foden vehicle name The Pride of Oxford with the headboard including the slogan “WEKANKARRYIT”, which is still used today.

However, the introduction of the Salter Report brought significant pressures to steam wagon operators, with higher costs, reduced carrying capacity and tighter operating restrictions. Licensing changes also saw annual fees rise sharply, creating further strain.

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John Werrell & Son became a limited company in 1926 (Image: John Werrell & Son)

Despite these setbacks, the business endured and grew. By 1955 it was firmly established, with the third generation, David Werrell, joining the company from the ground up as a driver.

A year later, in 1956, the firm became a limited company, led by John, Frank and David Werrell.

The company maintained a strong relationship with Foden during this period, reflecting its longstanding loyalty to the manufacturer.

New DAF John Werrell & Son lorries still carrying the ‘WEKANKARRYIT’ motto (Image: John Werrell & Son)

Following John Werrell’s death in 1968 and Frank Werrell’s in 1981, David continued to lead the company.

Over time, the fleet evolved, moving from traditional Foden vehicles to include Leyland and Transcontinental models.

The fourth generation joined in 1976, when John began training as an HGV mechanic. He later became a director in 1987.

New DAF John Werrell & Son lorries still carrying the ‘WEKANKARRYIT’ motto (Image: John Werrell & Son)

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After David Werrell’s sudden death in 1988, his wife Margaret stepped into a more active role, later becoming a director in 1991 until her death in August 2025.

Fleet modernisation continued through the 1980s and beyond, with ERF vehicles eventually replaced by DAF trucks.

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Today, the company operates a fleet of 12 DAF XF106 units alongside a wide range of trailers, supporting its long-standing motto.

The firm has also expanded its services, now handling specialist transport including ADR hazardous goods across multiple classes.

New DAF John Werrell & Son lorries still carrying the ‘WEKANKARRYIT’ motto (Image: John Werrell & Son)

Now in its 100th year, the company remains family-run, led by John Werrell and his daughter Katherine, who became a director in November 2025 after 17 years of working within the company’s administration and accounts.

Despite ongoing regulatory challenges in the haulage industry, the company says it is committed to continuing its legacy for generations to come.

The company said: “We hope that we can continue to serve the road haulage industry for many more years, with new legislation and ruling making it more and more difficult each year.”