Untouchable Unimog in rescue mission!

Three generations of fine farm produce.

Kier Rogers and his family have been farming fruit and vegetables for three generations on a 1000-acre site in the Herefordshire countryside, next to the river Wye. Kier runs 400 acres, 100 of which are dedicated to fruit which is harvested for large cider companies, along with the family’s very own local craft cider label, Colcombe House.

The business is committed to providing premium produce; the team even spray the plants with seaweed to ensure freshness, longevity and a stress-free growing environment. This sentiment is echoed at Colcombe House, which prides itself on excellence, supplying approximately 40,000 litres of artisan cider a year, to private parties, bistro bars and exclusive restaurants including two with Michelin Stars and premises in Notting Hill, owned by a celebrity chef.

A premium brand needs a premium vehicle.

The company obtained its first Unimog 15 months ago; however Kier’s love of Mercedes-Benz began much earlier than that. In 1999 he took a trip with friends across South Africa in a Mercedes-Benz 240D saloon car and was so impressed by the quality and reliability of the vehicle, he fell in love with the brand.

Before purchasing his Unimog he spent 10 years researching the best model for the job and eventually chose a U1700, “The heavy duty transmission on a U1700 is perfect for agricultural haulage,” he explained. Although the vehicle was 23 years old, this didn’t deter Kier; he was actually impressed at how well it had stood the test of time and the high quality of the steel build.

Driving a big machine didn’t pose any problems either, as Kier also owns a MB Trac 1000 and holds a HGV Class 1 licence, “At one time I was driving a truck on a regular basis, transporting potatoes from the farm to companies in Cambridgeshire.”

The company uses the vehicle for typical farming duties along with hauling small portions of fruit to a local expert pressing farm, in order to capture the fruit at peak ripeness.

- Kier Rogers

Slow and steady wins the race.

Kier worked tirelessly over three days, giving rides to people and delivering bread, milk, medicine and essential supplies to residents who could not leave their homes.

All journeys were undertaken exceedingly slowly and with great consideration, to ensure no bow waves were created which could increase the flooding in surrounding homes. Conditions were challenging and at times, frightening, especially during the evenings where the dark impaired visibility.

The truck didn’t let him down however. “Nothing stops a Unimog and mine performed brilliantly throughout. It’s very reliable and robust – I had no issues.” Kier praised its high clearance and how well-built the model is; he also loves how sleek the livery looks with the crisp Colcombe House branding.

A true hero!

Local press were hot on Kier’s heels, excited to report his endeavours. He was interviewed by BBC Hereford and Worcester, National BBC Breakfast and Midlands Today. The businessman was hailed a hero by the village, with individuals taking to social media to thank and praise him for his efforts, whilst a local company sent him a generous hamper to demonstrate their gratitude. The company owner even confessed he was now considering purchasing a Unimog.

However Kier, like his faithful truck, takes it all in his stride, “I was only too happy to pitch in and help my neighbours in their time of need. It was great to meet all the villagers and work with other landowners and their tractors to show some community spirit.”

A humble hero indeed, well done Kier!

Have you ever used your truck on a rescue mission?

Or know someone who has in your local area? We’d love to hear about it! Comment below or send a private message and it may feature in a future RoadStars article.