A removals firm boss in north Suffolk is thrilled at the ongoing success of the family business.

Three generations have been involved in Hamiltons Removals - a specialist removals company which can move pets, horses, vehicles and machinery as well as furniture.

The company - which has depots in Beccles and Harleston on the Norfolk/Suffolk border - was started in 1993 by Michael Sawyer along with his father, Brian, and brother, Nick, and his business partner Paul Walsh. Michael's three children are now also involved in the business.

Before that, the family ran a furniture retail business with stores in Ipswich, Norwich, Bury St Edmunds and Eye.

East Anglian Daily Times: Hamiltons Removals MD Michael Sawyer

But because of the success of its removals arm, the family decided to focus solely on that side of the business.

Mr Sawyer expressed his thanks to staff and family for their ongoing support for the business.

The company was named after the Duke of Hamilton - who used to own the Easton Estate in Suffolk - and chose dark green and gold livery matching that of the estate.

After its launch, the business quickly expanded into the international moving market - with Switzerland being one of its early success stories.

Managing director Michael Sawyer said: “We were lucky enough to be put in touch with a really good agent in Geneva who advised and helped us take care of all the red tape involved in shipping to and from Switzerland and we are now among the top three companies in the UK for removals of household goods and effects to Switzerland.

East Anglian Daily Times: Hamiltons Removals crew at work

“We are still very much a family firm with three generations involved in the running of the business – my wife Mandy, along with two of our children, work for the company with some of our employees having been with us since we started."

The company now employs more than 50 people in a variety of roles from foreman, porters and office workers  to a European, international and domestic sales team.

“We pride ourselves on our traditional values, including our high quality of service. We are always sensitive to our customers’ needs, which has helped us to expand and flourish over the years," said Michael.

The Harleston depot is also home to an online shop which sells high-quality packaging materials.

Over the years it has helped thousands of people relocate their homes and businesses to all parts of the UK and overseas.

It is running a 30th anniversary quiz on its website at www.hamiltonsremovals.co.uk/ham30 until November 30.