THE Cumbrian businessman who was once the driving force behind logistics giant Stobart Group has confirmed his interest in potentially buying the troubled haulier Eddie Stobart.

Stobart Group currently holds only 11.8 per cent of Eddie Stobart Logistics shares, but the haulier has experienced a sharp decline in its operating profits.

In recent days the future of Eddie Stobart Logistics has been the subject of intense speculation after it emerged that former Stobart Group chief executive Andrew Tinkler is interested in joining a plan to refinance the company - and it may involve him making an offer for it.

He ran the haulier successfully for a decade until 2014.

Mr Tinkler said: “I’m really keen to see if I can get involved for the success of the business going forward. I want to make sure the business survives through this difficult time.”