The company began on November 4, 1985, when Chris Workman and John Quaye started the transport business with one employee, rented premises and hired vehicles.

Their enterprise bloomed into the largest transport and distribution business in the Isle of Man.

The business now has more than 100 staff and operates more than 130 vehicles.

As the company enters its 25th year of trading it is one of the major clients with the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company shipping up to 40 trailers daily and easily spending six figure sums every week.

A company spokesman said the financial contribution to 'Isle of Man Plc' in VAT, tax, vehicle licences and other fees is estimated at more than £2.6 million per annum.

The company also assists charities such as Hospice Care, RNLI, Oxfam, Anthony Nolan Trust to name but a few and also sponsors various sporting activities such as St George's AFC and the Manx National Two Day Trial.

To celebrate the firm's 25th year in business Manx Independent Carriers has had its latest vehicles applied with a new livery marking the anniversary.

These vehicles can be seen travelling and working around the Isle of Man and the UK and the company says the new vehicles have already drawn favourable comments from customers and the public.

A company spokesman said the directors and staff of Manx Independent Carriers wanted to thank all of its clients and suppliers who have supported the company over the past next 25 years.