IT WAS with heavy hearts that the team at Stephen J Sluggett & Son in Holsworthy announced the passing of their founder this week - but they say his legacy will live on through the company he helped create.

Sluggett Limited, based on Dobles Lane Business Park, was established in 1977 by founder, Stephen John Sluggett, known as John.

It all started when John bought a Leyland Bison 6 wheeler from Eric Short of Tiverton. The lorry was then traded in for an 8 Wheeler Leyland Daf with a Rolls Royce engine — the first in the South west.

As the company gained more customers John expanded his fleet of lorries and drivers.

The company was run from the family home at Milton Damerel until it outgrew the space in 2010, when a new site was purchased and developed in Holsworthy Industrial Estate.

The team say, while deeply saddened by his passing, they are keen to continue John’s legacy and will strive to pursue the vision he established almost 50 years ago.

A spokesperson said: “We are deeply saddened to share the passing of our founder, Stephen J Sluggett, whose vision, leadership, and dedication shaped the foundation of our organisation. Their legacy will remain at the heart of everything we do.

“We want to reassure our clients that it is very much business as usual. Our leadership team has long been committed to ensuring stability, continuity, and the ongoing delivery of the high standards and services that define our organisation.

“Stephen J Sluggett built a resilient and forward-looking company founded in 1977, supported by a strong team and clear values. Those principles continue to guide us as we move ahead with confidence and purpose.

“We remain fully operational and dedicated to serving our clients without interruption. At the same time, we will honour Stephen’s legacy by continuing to pursue the vision they established.”