Celebrating 40 Years of Hi-Speed Services: A Remarkable Journey

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Hi-Speed Services, a milestone that stands as a testament to perseverance, community and the power of chance. Founded through fortuitous circumstances and connections in football, Hi-Speed took on its first official job on 15th April 1986, and the journey since has been nothing short of extraordinary.

Ian Dawkins, reflecting on the origins of Hi-Speed, describes its birth as a product of chance and circumstance. Supported by family and friends, the business slowly grew over the years and today operates a fleet of more than 75 vehicles, ranging from cars right up to 40ft articulated lorries. The story is one of gradual expansion, fuelled by dedication and strong relationships.

Central to Hi-Speed’s enduring success is a straightforward philosophy: look after your staff and they, in turn, will look after your customers. This simple approach has created a positive culture that has carried the company through four decades of challenges and triumphs. As Ian Dawkins puts it, “Here’s to the next 40 years.”

The anniversary also prompts reflection on the dramatic events that unfolded in Aldershot, as reported in the Aldershot News on 18th April 1986. Two postmen, Ian Dawkins and Robert Enticknap, were involved in a terrifying armed raid while making a delivery to a sub-post office. The robbers, armed with double-barrelled shotguns and wearing balaclavas, stole £7,000 and narrowly avoided a police car during their escape.

The ordeal was swift and shocking. Dawkins recalls how the robbers approached them from behind, at first mistaken for colleagues playing a prank. The reality became clear when a saw-off shotgun was pointed inches from his face. Both men were forced to the ground and threatened at gunpoint, with Dawkins fearing for his life and Enticknap prevented from sounding the alarm.

Witnesses and shop staff watched in horror as the robbery unfolded. The thieves shouted and screamed throughout the incident, pushing past children and grabbing money bags before fleeing the scene. The experience left both postmen shaken, underscoring the dangers faced by those working in public service roles.

Despite this traumatic event, Dawkins continued his professional journey, ultimately founding Hi-Speed Services and building a successful business. His story is one of resilience, showing that adversity can be transformed into opportunity. As the company celebrates its 40th anniversary, it stands as a symbol of determination and community spirit.

Looking forward, the Hi-Speed team is optimistic about the future, aiming to build on the foundations of the past four decades. With a strong commitment to staff and customers, they hope to continue providing reliable services and making a positive impact for another 40 years and beyond.