Thwaites has unveiled a new fleet of delivery trucks emblazoned with its 200-year history.

The Blackburn brewery has launched eight new 26-ton lorries, each one named after one of the firm’s famous shire horses.

The fleet, which is part of a wider £750,000 investment at Thwaites’ distribution centre on the Shadsworth business park, also features newly-commisioned illustrations reflecting the company’s past.

Bosses have made changes after redesigning the company’s logo earlier this year – and ditching the popular horses.

Chief executive Rick Bailey said: “The illustration is part of a bigger exercise across the business to lift our image.

“However, it goes to the heart of what Thwaites is about and captures our proud heritage and values.

“As a family company it was also important to us to include real people from our business who make us what we are.”

The new MAN lorries were unveiled by Mr Bailey and company chairman Ann Yerburgh, whose family is related to founder Daniel Thwaites.

Mr Bailey said the new vehicles emphasised Thwaites’ ‘rich Lancashire heritage’ and the importance of the shire horses.

The animals are kept in stables at Eanam, Blackburn, and are still brought out for shows and promotional appearances.

The Lancashire Telegraph revealed earlier this year that Thwaites’ new logo, which is based on 19th century designs, did not include the horses.

But Mr Bailey defended the move and insisted: “We love the horses and they will still be there.”