For over 35 years, motorists travelling along the A17 at Fleet Hargate have put their brakes on in surprise at the sight of the Anglia Motel.
Adorned with flags, a Hawker Hunter jet gate guardian, an FV432 armoured personnel carrier, and a massive 65-ton Chieftain tank, the site is much more than a popular roadside transport café—it is the headquarters of one of the UK’s most dedicated veterans’ fundraising operations.
At the heart of it all is Harold Payne, the motel’s 86-year-old proprietor. Driven by childhood memories of an uncle who struggled deeply after returning from World War II, Harold has dedicated his life to honouring the armed forces.
Alongside a loyal group of volunteers, Harold’s tireless efforts have raised more than £1 million for veterans’ charities, pilgrimage funds, and remembrance displays. From personally spending £60,000 to restore a DUKW amphibious landing craft to take veterans out to sea at Normandy, to his current £250,000 campaign to construct the “Tree of Life” war memorial, Harold’s commitment has never wavered.
A cornerstone of Harold’s fundraising strategy has always been sharing his ever-growing military vehicle collection with the public. By transporting these historic vehicles to military events and coastal towns Harold fills donation buckets.
However, moving heavy armoured hardware, requires serious mechanical muscle. To keep things on the road, Harold is putting out an urgent call to the logistics, commercial vehicle, and haulage communities.
The Anglia Motel team is looking to source a twin-wheel HGV tractor unit.
A reliable twin-wheel unit is crucial to haul historic armour across the region.
Every mile this tractor unit travels will directly support remembrance activities, veteran welfare.
If you can help please reach out to Harold and the team directly or email [email protected]
Let’s help the man who has spent decades supporting our heroes get his fleet back on the road.
Paul Barnes
District councillor
