I'm a sole trader too.Everyone on this forum is apart from ltd's and partnerships.That doesn't mean i can't employ.
Sole trader doesn't mean you work on your own, it just sounds like it should mean that, i notice a few on here repeat this (ewan).
As for three people and one van, i'm trying to grow and think this a better transition.I can't cover two vans, i haven't the work.When I took a guy on we quickly ran out of work, and another van would give me two vans and two days work a week each.So I want to increase my capacity again but not leave myself overstretched.One or both guys might leave etc so this is a better- but more expensive option (fiat ducato 11k+ vat plus system) whilst junking a perfectly good 36k scudo with a diy set up.