Our History

Founded in 1966 by the Coleman family Lantern Recovery Specialists PLC has nearly 60 years of experience in providing a first class customer service. LANTERN has been built on a strong foundation of putting the customer first and this backed by a continuous growth making LANTERN the largest independently owned Vehicle Recovery/Transport providers in the UK.

Now in its third generation of family ownership by the Coleman’s the business continues to grow with our founder Ray Coleman still heading up the business as CEO.

The business has always been at the forefront of the industry operating predominantly in London and the south LANTERN continues to grow with carefully planned new sites opening over the years. In 2003 the business purchased the former AA depot purpose built at South Mimms Services. The 4 Acre site located just off the M25 provides fast access to the A1/M1/M25 and into the capital.

From day one the business has grown with a strong emphasis on a solid financial background at its core. All assets are purchased outright and this vision has ensured we have continued to thrive. From the early days of operating one truck this has grown to see a 200+ strong fleet of Heavy/Light Recovery. Trucks/Multi-Car Carriers/Service Vans/Plant & Commercial transporters and many more.