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When an Angus couple were extending their own home they found it a real struggle to rent the right equipment.

Identifying this gap in the market has led John and Nicola Young to set up their own plant hire business, Angus Mini Diggers.

The company, which started last June, has built a loyal customer base and has just taken on premises at Kirkton Industrial Estate in Arbroath.

Its mission is to make plant hire approachable, practical and accessible for everyone, not just experienced tradespeople.

John, a welder by trade, explains the origins of the company.

He said: “When we got a quote for the groundworks it was outwith our budget, and so we knew there had to be another way.

“We realised that with the right equipment we could do the work ourselves, but we were looking for a long-term hire and struggled to find an option from a local company that fitted our needs.

“Tis led to us buying the equipment we needed, and that’s where the idea for Angus Mini Diggers really began.”

The company works closely with both first-time hirers and experienced trades, offering delivery or collection, and compact machinery that is ideal for tight access, gardens and residential projects.

They support DIY homeowners, landscapers and other local trades.

Unlike many of the larger national hire companies, Nicola and John offer hands-on training and personal support.

The business has a wide range of equipment from diggers and dumpers to chippers and stump grinders.

Nicola said: “We built this business because we needed a service like it ourselves and everything we do is based on making sure others have that same support.

“Where we really come into our own is taking the time to understand and advise what equipment is best for each job.

“We are happy to show customers exactly how to use it safely and confidently.”

John said: “Having a base means we are even more accessible.  People can pop in, ask questions, see the machines up close and feel confident they’re hiring the right kit.”

This article appeared in The Courier on 27 January 2026