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.

History of John Darke
John Darke begins in 1946

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.

John Darke Louth
John Darke trading for 75 years

Trading for over 75 years

In 2021 John Darke Ltd celebrated 75 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.

Customer Reviews
Service  |  6 out of 5 Star Rating
I have always been looked after very well as they know it is essential that my car is needed on a daily basis. I am a driver for the Louth Voluntary Car Service helping people getting to their medical appointments plus doing Blood Runs for the Hospital.
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Andrew Bollen  |  05/04/24
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
I brought my car in for a new tyre and it was also given a health check which was sent to me. My car I believe was cleaned. Anyway it looked cleaner. Thank you
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Carole Baker  |  05/04/24
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
All staff friends and helpful and my car was ready for collection when they said it would
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Graham Smith  |  05/04/24
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
Friendly service
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DMJ Drainage Ltd  |  05/04/24
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
They are always friendly and helpful
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Gary Clark  |  29/03/24
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
Efficient and polite service as always
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Peter Jeffrey  |  29/03/24
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
Previous experience with other ford dealers would not get such a good review.
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Ashley Carmicheal  |  22/03/24
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
Always helpful and efficient
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Nicholas James  |  22/03/24
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
Was A very efficient and professional service while being friendly and helpful
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Ruth Cox  |  22/03/24
Service  |  5 out of 5 Star Rating
The service I received was spot on. Nothing in my eyes needs improvement
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Mark Doherty  |  28/03/24
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Contact our team

Our team are always glad to help with your enquiry. You can reach us via phone, email or you can visit us at our showroom.

4.8 (based on 175 reviews) View available reviews
A16 Garage, Grimsby Road, Louth, Lincolnshire, LN11 0EA
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