20 Aug

A guide to our grab hire and muck away services

Our reliable and affordable grab hire and muck away services make getting rid of your waste in Dorset quick and easy, whether that’s waste from your DIY project or large construction site!

How our grab hire & muck away works

To get started on disposing of your waste in one of the most efficient ways possible, simply give us a call today on 01258 857465 and tell our friendly team about your project and waste needs. We’ll advise you on which muck away service will be best for your requirements and then arrange a time and date to deliver your bulk bag to suit you. Once it’s full, we’ll come and collect it for you and take it away for recycling and disposal. Easy.

Our grab away bulk bags are suitable for soil, hard core, brick rubble, sand, concrete and other mixed aggregates. For larger waste that isn’t easily moved, you’ll need our grab hire vehicles which are available in 4, 6 and 8 wheelers as well as our 10 and 20 tonne tipper lorries.

Our grab hire & muck away services

Our specialist grab lorries are able to collect large quantities of building, construction and garden waste in Poole, Bournemouth and the surrounding areas. You can use our muck away service for all sorts of waste, including:

  • Sand, concrete and aggregates
  • Building and landscaping materials

Please note, we are not able to accept asbestos and other hazardous waste.

Better than a skip!

Did you know our grab hire service provides a much quicker, simpler and more cost-effective solution for waste disposal than skips? That’s because our trucks can hold much more waste than a skip so you can fill it with even more material while reducing the number of bags or collections needed. When you choose MB Wilkes for your muck away service, you can be sure we’ll arrive on-site at a time to suit you, collect your waste and drive away with minimum disruption and fuss. We can also deliver your order at the same time!

To talk to a member of our friendly team about your waste disposal needs, get in touch today by calling 01258 857465 or send us a completed online enquiry form.

More general

15 Oct
4 brilliant uses for garden sleepers
Are you thinking it’s time to refresh your garden but you’re not sure how to go about it? Garden sleepers are a simple, natural addition to any outside space that add interest, texture and substance. So, whether you have manicured acres or a cosy courtyard, discover four ways you can utilise sleepers to bring your garden to life. Create raised flowerbeds Attractive, durable and natural, hardwood garden sleepers are perfect for creating raised flowerbeds. Depending on how high you want the flower bed, simply stack the sleepers one on top of the other to reach the desired height and secure. For added interest, why not crate flowerbeds of various heights? Line pathways in your garden When you have sent time and effort curating the perfect lawn, the last thing you want is for someone to run all over it! Prevent unruly feet trampling your meticulously maintained grass by defining clear pathways with garden sleepers lining the edges. Not only will the raised sides provide a natural barrier between the path and the lawn but they will look beautiful too. Sleepers make beautiful steps For charming, rustic steps that are quick and easy to install, garden sleepers are a great alternative to concrete or paving. Use the sleepers to edge the step and fill it in with attractive gravel or decorative stones. Steps in your garden, either from decking or on a slope, not only help you navigate around safely, but also helps define the different areas of your garden.  Build your own garden furniture If you’re a dab hand at DIY, why not use garden sleepers to create unique and striking garden furniture? From a simple bench to a full alfresco dining set with table and chairs, the possibilities end only with your imagination. As a natural material, your gorgeous bespoke furniture will blend in seamlessly with your garden and provide a fantastic talking point at your next BBQ. If you’re feeling really adventurous, you could even try building a garden swing!  Are you feeling inspired to add sleepers to your garden? From new pine sleepers to grade A reclaimed sleepers, you’ll find a great selection at MB Wilkes, Dorset’s leading supplier of landscaping materials and products. To learn more, contact us today on 01258 857465.
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22 Aug
Announcing the arrival of our new delivery trucks
We are very proud to announce brand new trucks have joined our fleet of delivery vehicles, increasing our capacity to deliver our wide selection of aggregates and other building materials across the Dorset area. Proudly displaying the blue and yellow colours and logo of MB Wilkes, as well as a personalised number plate, the brilliant new trucks are capable of carrying large loads and have full tipping capabilities for quick and efficient delivery. Dorset’s leading supplier of aggregates and building materials A family owned sand and gravel quarry, MB Wilkes was established over 50 years ago in 1964 and have since become one of Dorset’s leading suppliers of aggregate and building materials thanks to our quality products and outstanding customer service. From driveway gravel and decorative garden stones to specialist sand and topsoil, our huge array of quality products at competitive prices have enabled us to build strong relationships with a diverse range of clients in the construction industry, including local councils, national developers, utility companies and even private homeowners.   An extensive product range The great news for our customers is that our new delivery trucks will allow us to deliver even more of our top-quality products to our clients around Dorset, ensuring fast delivery, often within 48 hours of your order, by one of our friendly and knowledgeable drivers. If you require a product urgently, please contact our team here at MB Wilkes on 01258 857465 and we’ll try our very best to help you. Our extensive product list includes: Building materials Driveway gravel Landscape supplies Specialist sands Decorative stones Paving slabs Soils and topsoil Sleepers and oak planks So, if you’re looking for the highest standard aggregates or building materials at competitive prices in Dorset, please don’t hesitate to contact the experts at MB Wilkes today on 01258 857465.    
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8 Jul
3 tips for the perfect outdoor dining space
When the sun is shining on long summer days, there’s nothing quite as enjoyable as a spot of al fresco dining. To really make the most of the opportunity, follow our top tips for creating the perfect outdoor dining experience. Create a solid base with paving slabs The key to any relaxing outdoor dining experience is an even, level base on which to place your table and chairs (we’ve all experienced the infuriating wonky, wobbly table). Paving slabs, large blocks of stone, are not only a great option for ensuring your dining table stays stationary, but they also look beautiful too, blending in seamlessly with the natural surroundings of your garden. Our extensive range of paving slabs at MB Wilkes include a variety of different materials and colours such as classic thin brown sandstone. Add interest to your garden Planting a variety of different flowers and foliage is a wonderful way to create a stunning backdrop to your outdoor dining area. Choose the plants carefully so that they reflect the style and mood of the garden you are trying to create. For instance, rows of pretty flowers in beds lined with large white pebbles create lovely neat lines for an ordered garden, whereas a scattering of wildflowers in a raised bed made from chunky railway sleepers suits a county theme. What’s more, you’ll be helping the local wildlife by providing a source of food and shelter. Light up your garden at night To ensure your al fresco dining experience doesn’t get cut short when the sun slips behind the horizon, consider installing lighting in your garden. From solar powered lanterns hidden between flowerpots, to a string of delicate fairy lights floating on a garden wall, the soft glow of outdoor lighting is not only practical but produces a beautifully warm and welcoming atmosphere.  Based in Dorset, MB Wilkes is among the UK’s leading supplier of a range of decorative stones, paving slabs, sands and gravel. For more information about any of our products and services, please get in touch with our friendly team today on 01258 857465.  
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Most Recent Stories

14 Aug
Essential Gardening Tasks for Every Season
What does your garden look like through the year? Vibrant and thriving, or a bit hit and miss? Gardening doesn’t stop just because the weather changes. Each season brings fresh challenges and new opportunities and knowing what to do, and when, makes all the difference. Picture planting vibrant summer blooms under a clear blue sky, cutting back golden leaves in autumn, or prepping frosty beds for spring growth. These aren’t just chores; they’re part of a cycle that keeps your outdoor space alive and thriving. In this guide covering the essential gardening tasks for every season, we at MB Wilkes have gathered expert, easy-to-follow seasonal gardening tips for UK gardeners. Whether it’s pruning, planting, soil care or pest control, you’ll find everything you need right here. Spring: Set the Stage for Success Spring is when everything starts to wake up again. It’s the time to literally lay the groundwork for what’s to come. So, let’s begin our deep dive into seasonal gardening tips with a look at what you need to do when spring rolls around. Sow and Plant Early spring is perfect for sowing seeds indoors and planting hardy annuals. By May and June, you can start transferring bedding plants like Alstroemeria, Sweet William, and Canterbury Bells outdoors. If you’ve been growing under cover, this is the time to move them to borders or containers. Prep and Protect Unpredictable spring weather calls for a little extra care and attention. Delicate young plants are especially vulnerable during chilly nights and sudden cold snaps, so it’s worth having some horticultural fleece on hand. It’s a simple yet highly effective way to shield plants from late frosts, especially in early May. As temperatures rise and the risk of frost fades, usually by early to mid-June, you can safely remove the fleece and let your plants enjoy the sunshine. Feed Your Soil The next of our essential gardening tasks for every season includes feeding the soil. Your plants are going to be hungry. Mix in some compost or organic fertiliser early in the season to give your garden a head start. Remember that a well-fed garden is a vibrant garden. Summer: Maintain and Make the Most of It Summer is when your garden really comes into its own, but it still needs your attention. From summer gardening tips to pest protection and lawn care, here’s what to focus on. Keep It Blooming This is prime time for sowing late-flowering annuals like Nasturtiums, Clarkias and Calendulas. You’ll get beautiful blooms into late summer, just don’t forget to add water gel crystals and slow-release fertiliser to your compost to keep everything hydrated and nourished. You can also plant Dahlia bulbs in May but be sure to protect them from slugs. And if you haven’t already, give those window boxes a tidy-up and refresh your topsoil. General Upkeep Water Regularly, Especially During Hot Spells Mow The Lawn Frequently – Sharp Blades Give Cleaner Cuts Deadhead Spent Flowers and Remove Dead Foliage to Keep Things Looking Neat Pest and Pollination Watch The last of our summer gardening tips is to keep on top of pests and ensure pollination. Cover strawberries and soft fruit bushes with netting to protect them from birds. Carrots and cabbages also need covering to avoid carrot fly and caterpillar damage. Got tomatoes in the greenhouse? Keep it well-ventilated and tap the flowers gently to improve pollination. Don’t forget to uncover strawberries kept under glass so insects can do their thing. Autumn: Prepare and Protect As temperatures drop, your garden will need a bit of TLC to keep it healthy through winter and set it up for spring. Our autumn gardening tips will help you get started. Add Decorative Touches As blooms fade, evergreen plants help maintain a lush look. For even more visual interest, try decorative garden stones like black slate or Cotswold Cobbles, as these are a brilliant way to add texture and style to bare spots in your garden. Remember that, here at MB Wilkes, we supply the best range of aggregates Dorset has to offer – perfect for borders, paths and decorative features. Soil Revival After a busy growing season, your soil will need replenishing. Mix in mulch, compost or manure to restore nutrients, and use a garden fork to work it in and avoid compacting the ground. Here’s where to focus: Beds and Borders with Exhausted Summer Plants Areas Where You Plan to Plant Again in Spring Autumn Gardening Tasks: Quick Checklist Winter is the time when everything can fall apart, and all your hard work can be undone; the preparations you make in autumn can make all the difference. With that in mind, here’s a short rundown of the seasonal gardening tips for autumn: Clear Fallen Leaves Weekly Using a Lawn Mower or Leaf Blower Bring Tender Plants Indoors Before the First Frost Turn Your Compost Heap to Speed Up Decomposition Clean Garden Tools to Prevent Rust and Disease Carryover Once you’ve done everything possible to protect your plants, garden, tools, and garden furniture, all there’s left to do is wait for winter to roll around. Winter: Rest and Rebuild Winter is quieter but still important, and this is your chance to plan, repair and improve. The seasonal gardening tips don’t stop at autumn, so here’s a few winter gardening tips to ensure your garden makes it through to spring. Protect What’s Still Growing Hardy plants can remain outside through winter with little fuss, but more sensitive varieties need a bit of extra care. Bring tender plants indoors or wrap them in horticultural fleece to shield them from frost and freezing winds. It’s also a smart move to raise pots off the ground using pot feet or bricks; this improves drainage and helps prevent waterlogging, which can be just as damaging as frost. A few small steps now can save your plants later. Tools and Maintenance One of the simplest yet most effective winter gardening tips is to clean and oil your tools. This not only extends their lifespan but ensures they're ready to go when spring rolls around. Take time now to sharpen mower blades, tighten loose screws, and inspect garden structures for signs of wear or damage. Small fixes now prevent bigger problems later. Why Choose Us? At MB Wilkes, we’ve been a family-owned sand and gravel quarry for over 60 years. From decorative aggregates and topsoil to landscaping supplies and waste services, we offer premium products at competitive prices. We’re proud to be one of the UK’s leading suppliers of landscaping materials, delivering excellent customer service every time. Whether you’re refreshing a small bed or renovating your whole garden, our team is here to help. Get Your Garden Season-Ready with Expert Tips and Quality Supplies Need advice or looking to order garden materials? You can place your order through our website. And if you have questions, call us today on 01258 857465 or reach out through our simple contact form on the website. We're always happy to help with product info, delivery options, or general gardening queries.
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6 Aug
MB Wilkes Hosts Annual Golf Day at Iford Golf Centre
MB Wilkes proudly welcomed clients and industry partners to its Annual Golf Day, held on 17th July 2025 at Iford Golf Centre. Now a highlight in the company’s social calendar, the event brought together teams from construction, engineering, and civil works for a spirited day of networking and friendly competition. The day kicked off with a hearty breakfast bap and coffee on arrival, followed by warm‑up practice on the driving range. Participants then took to the course for 18 holes of golf, with teams competing for honours. After play, a prize ceremony celebrated top performers, followed by a relaxed BBQ and drinks reception to finish the day on a high note. Participating teams: Team 1 – Viking Projects Team 2 – Morris Construction Team 3 – MKM Construction & GSJP Civil Engineering Team 4 – Quantum Civil Engineering +1 Team 5 – Quantum Civil Engineering Team 6 – Gould Groundworks & Sparks Commercial Services Team 7 – MB Wilkes & Raymond Brown Tournament highlights and winners: Individual Champion: Jason Thomas (Quantum Civil Engineering) Team Winners: Team 5 (Quantum Civil Engineering) Longest Drive: Ryan Bath (Viking Projects) Nearest the Pin: Jake Simpson (GSJP Civil Engineering) Wooden Spoon (for last place): Roger Morris (Morris Construction)   Carl Penney, Business Development Manager at MB Wilkes, commented on the event: “Our Annual Golf Day is more than just a tournament—it’s an opportunity to reinforce the strong relationships we have with our clients and peers, and to enjoy a day where business and camaraderie go hand in hand.” He added: “Congratulations to all teams and individuals who took part. We’re already looking forward to next year’s event.” MB Wilkes extends sincere thanks to all attendees, partners, and the Iford Golf Centre team for helping make this year’s event a great success.   As one of the UK’s leading suppliers of decorative aggregates, garden stones, construction materials and soils, MB Wilkes operates from its own quarry in Dorset, proudly serving customers across the South and beyond. As a family-run business, the company is committed to supporting the local community through regular events and local sponsorships that reflect its values of loyalty, service, and trust. Shop at MB Wilkes, to browse their wide range of landscaping and building materials.
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24 Jun
Topsoil vs compost: Which to use and when
Ever found yourself staring at a bag of compost, wondering if it’s actually what your garden needs? Or asked, what’s the difference between topsoil and compost, and why does it matter? If so, you’re not alone. Choosing the right material can be surprisingly tricky, especially if you're starting from scratch or trying to breathe new life into tired soil. The good news? You don’t need to be an expert to make the right call. At MB Wilkes, we’ve been helping customers create healthy, happy gardens for over 60 years with our full range of amenity and landscaping products. In this guide, we will give you the clarity you need as we address the subject of topsoil vs compost. What Is Topsoil? Topsoil is the very top layer of earth, usually the first 5 to 12 inches, and it plays a crucial role in any planting project. Rich in a natural mix of sand, silt, clay, and organic matter, this layer is where most plant roots live and where biological activity thrives. Whether you're laying a new lawn, building flower beds, or filling in low spots, topsoil gives your plants a solid foundation. It helps retain moisture and provides support so roots can grow deep and strong. Calculating topsoil requirements for your project ensures you buy the right amount, while avoiding waste and keeping things budget friendly. It’s the starting point for almost any outdoor transformation, and one that’s important if you want a garden that looks gorgeous and is teeming with life. What Is Compost? Compost is decomposed organic matter, lovingly known by gardeners as “black gold.” It’s created from ingredients like vegetable scraps, leaves, and twigs, and the result is a dark, crumbly material rich in nutrients. What makes compost so valuable is its ability to improve the structure and fertility of your soil. It boosts microbial life, enhances water retention, and gives plants the nutrient-rich environment they need to thrive. Compost isn’t a standalone solution either; it works best when combined with other soils. But if you're looking to enhance plant performance and keep your garden soil healthy, compost is a must, especially when used in conjunction with topsoil for maximum benefits. Topsoil vs Compost: What Are the Differences? So, when it comes to topsoil vs compost, what actually sets them apart? While they might look similar at first glance, their roles in the garden are quite different. Topsoil forms the structural base as the layer that supports plant roots, holds moisture, and creates the foundation for growth. Compost, on the other hand, is all about nutrition. Made from decomposed organic matter, compost is rich in nutrients and works to enhance soil health over time. If your garden soil lacks structure or needs levelling, topsoil is the right choice. If your plants are struggling due to poor nutrient levels, compost can give them the boost they need. But you shouldn’t stop there as, in many cases, using both together provides the best results. Knowing the difference between topsoil and compost helps you select the right material for each stage of your gardening project, whether you’re planting a lawn, filling beds, or preparing a veg patch. Can You Mix Topsoil and Compost? Absolutely! And it’s often the best approach. Mixing topsoil and compost gives you a balanced growing medium, especially for gardens that need both structure and nutrition. Here are some key benefits and ideas: Boosts Nutrient Availability Without Losing Soil Structure Improves Drainage While Retaining Essential Moisture Encourages Root Development and Microbial Activity Ideal For Growing Vegetables, Flowers, and Herbs A typical blend is 70% topsoil to 30% compost, though this can vary depending on your specific plants. This combination is especially useful for raised beds, vegetable gardens, and flower borders. How Much Topsoil Do You Need? Working out how much topsoil to purchase is simpler to work out than you might think. Read our guide where we explain the steps you can take to identify how much topsoil you need for your project. And if you’re not quite sure? Give us a call on 01258 857465, as we’re happy to guide you through it and recommend the right quantity Where to Buy Quality Topsoil and Compost At MB Wilkes, we’ve been supplying top-quality landscaping products for over six decades. Whether you’re ordering in bulk or need a smaller load, we’ve got you covered with high-quality soil products, delivered either loose or in bulk bags. We offer flexible delivery times and are proud to combine competitive pricing with personal service. And thanks to our excellent contacts within the industry, our product list of continuously growing, so we’re sure to be able to meet your requirements. Give Your Garden the MB Wilkes Advantage If you’re serious about upgrading your garden with the right materials, we’re here to help. As a family-owned business with more than 60 years of experience, we’re proud to offer excellent customer service and premium products that deliver results. From compost to topsoil — and everything in between — MB Wilkes has the materials and the know-how to bring your vision to life. Give us a call on 01258 857465 or reach out via our contact form. Let’s get your garden growing.
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