Matthew Higham Obituary: Antiques Dealer and Trucking Pioneer 2026

Matthew Higham, an antiques dealer and trucking pioneer, lived a life full of adventure and unexpected turns. His obituary tells the story of a man who ran away to Scotland, trained as a blacksmith, and even worked for MI6. From selling knickers at Brixton market to co-founding a transport company, Matthew's journey was anything but ordinary.

Early Life and Education

Born in Holborn, central London, to David, a literary agent, and Helen (née Witton), a journalist, Matthew grew up in Hampstead. He attended various schools but none recognized his dyslexia, so he survived by becoming the class entertainer. Largely self-educated, he became politically aware in his teens, joining Aldermaston marches and briefly connecting with the Communist Party of Great Britain.

Career and Adventures

Matthew's career was a patchwork of diverse experiences. He trained as a blacksmith and studied at the E15 theatre school alongside Mike Leigh. He spent a brief stint in Berlin in an undisclosed role for MI6, then sold knickers at Brixton market. Later, he learned to drive HGVs for British Rail, which led him to drive trucks across the world.

In 1978, he co-founded St Giles European Transport with his brother Ben, specializing in antiques haulage. After the company ended in 1983, he worked for antiques dealer Peter Howkins in Great Yarmouth before setting up his own business in 1992.

Antiques Dealing

Matthew specialized in buying country furniture and artefacts, initially from the Czech Republic and France. His restless nature gave him license to roam across Europe, the US, and China, finding worn and weathered treasures in remote places. He collected stories as much as objects, recounting his adventures with delight to anyone who would listen.

Personal Life and Legacy

Matthew accumulated two wives, two partners, and five children. He settled in Norwich in 1970, living in the heart of the city for most of his life. His legacy is one of resilience, curiosity, and a refusal to conform to a single path.

Key Takeaways

• Matthew Higham led a multifaceted life, from blacksmith to antiques dealer.
• He co-founded a successful transport company specializing in antiques haulage.
• His adventurous spirit took him across Europe, the US, and China.
• He overcame dyslexia through self-education and charisma.
• His legacy includes a rich collection of stories and a family of five children.

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