The History of John Darke Ltd

Mr John Darke worked for the Bristol Aeroplane Company as an aircraft engineer.  It was this role that brought him to the Lincolnshire and Yorkshire area.

Always immaculately presented Mr Darke had a great interest in anything with an engineering connection, especially cars and motorcycles.

It all began in 1946

Mr John Darke began his business at Red Garage in Marshchapel, Lincolnshire in 1946.

Goggomobils, Hillmans, Humbers and Sunbeams

The business moved to the Wolds market town of Louth, Lincolnshire in 1956 occupying the same site the business operates from today. 

The Louth site initially started by selling Goggomobils along with Hillmans, Humbers and Sunbeams from the Rootes Group which later became Chrysler Talbot.

Fuel Forecourt

Situated on the original A16, John Darke Ltd has sold fuel to both locals and commuters from our forecourt, working with some of the worlds biggest fuel suppliers. The company vision has stood the test of time, "to offer a first class product, using the latest technology, while delivering the best level of customer service". 

1982 Volvo Arrives

In 1982 the company took the Volvo franchise and became known nationwide for delivering the very best levels of customer service.

John Darke Ltd operated the Volvo franchise at its sites in Grimsby Road Louth and Cheshire Road Lincoln. 

2008, Ford Comes To Louth

In 2008 the business was awarded the Ford Retail Franchise and now offers an extensive stock of Ford and Volvo used vehicles, alongside a Ford Approved Service Centre, Volvo Specialist Service Centre, insurance approved bodyshop and vehicle hire.

Trading for 80 years

In 2026 John Darke Ltd celebrate 80 years of trading. We remain an independent family-run company that prides itself on offering a fair, open and personal approach to doing business. With many loyal customers following along the way, John Darke Ltd is the name that you can trust.