R Eyres Ltd, the owner of Camel Hire, started in 1900 when Richard Eyres started making carriages, traps, jingles, carts and a wide range of farm vehicles, all horse drive.
In 1906 the current head office in Wadebridge was purchased and a sawmill was created to provide seasoned timber. Wooden vehicles were constructed at the old site in Fairpark road where a blacksmith and forge were in operation. Gradually motor power took over from horses and the company changed from selling, repairing and servicing cars. Farm vehicle construction continued and commercial bodywork was undertaken.

New car franchises for Morris, Wolseley and MG were added by Bill Jones. Wood working declined as cars developed and in 1974, Phillip Jones added the Rover and Triumph franchises. The vehicle breakdown and recovery business was developed and it soon became clear that there was a need for alternative transport for the victims of breakdowns and accident. In 1978, Camel Hire was formed to meet this need and was later expanded to provide vans, trucks and minibuses.

During 1995, Camel Hire became part of the United Rental network offering a far wider range of vehicles.