About Us

Timber Merchants in Dorset Since c1886

Originally founded on c1886 by James Thorne who farmed at Romford Mill near Verwood which is where the sawmill was first located and powered by steam.

After James died in 1910 his son Robert Thorne, continued running the business and named the business Robert Thorne. He also expanded into agricultural contracting with various steam engines and threshing tackle.

The company not only supplied timber to local businesses and farmers but, also to the Government during both World Wars as well as working with the railways to maintain rolling stock.

A Wide Range of Customers & Products

In 1944 a Limited Company was formed which continued as such until 1996. Robert sadly passed away in 1947 and so the business was continued by his four sons and one daughter until the late 1980’s when the next generation took over which included another Robert Thorne. During this time a Tanalising Plant was also purchased to enable us to treat both our own timber and other customers’ timber.

In 1996 Robert Thorne Ltd was split up and Robert and his son, Simon, established Robert Thorne and Sons LLP. At the same time the business was moved from Verwood to Three Legged Cross which is where we are located today.

Here we continue to supply round and sawn timber from sustainable sources to a wide range of customers varying from local Authorities to individual members of the public. We also continue to tanalise the majority of our timber and also undertake tanalising outside work.

Design & Build Services Available

In 2008 we became Agents for L.M. Bateman, supplying a wide range of livestock equipment including gates and cattle crushes, to local farmers. Having our own mixed farm gives us a true perspective of what is required and working with the staff at Batemans, we also offer a design service to cater for your needs.

Recently we have diversified into the construction of bespoke mobile Horse Jumps. These jumps are made to order and designed around the customers needs and then tanalised after assembly. If you need timber merchants in Dorset, contact our team now.

Let’s Talk About Your Requirements

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