BENNETTS Garage in Cirencester will be shutting its doors after 86 years servicing vehicles in and around the town.

The garage will be closing just before Christmas on December 22 as owner Timothy Bennett prepares for retirement at the age of 65.

Bennetts was opened by Timothy’s grandfather in November 1931 in Victoria Road, where it still is today.

Timothy said: “I’m closing it because I am 65. I have not got sons or anything.

“I’ve had quite a lot of response from customers. Most people have said thank you for what we have done.

“After 86 years it does seem strange. It has been a family business for a number of years.

“I was born into the car repair industry. My grandfather started it in November 1931 and we lived next door. So from the time I was born, I was living next door to the garage.”

Timothy started working at the garage when he was just 15 and took over in 1988 (in his mid 30s), when his dad retired.

He reflected on his 50 years at the garage: “Taking over and running it was quite a challenge at the time.

Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard:

(Timothy Bennett in his younger days at the garage, second right. His father is pictured at the centre and his grandfather is pictured to the left.)

“It has been enjoyable meeting so many people and customers. I think meeting people and dealing with people makes you the sort of person you are, that’s the enjoyable part.

“I always decided that when I retired it would be sold. We want to go on more holidays now, and there will be a lot of dog walking.

“I think it is time for me to finish. The business and cars have changed since I started. Now, it is all electronic, whereas I used to mend things. Now, you do not strip engines apart so much.

“Thank you to all my customers who have been with us, some have been with us since the 1970s.”

Timothy plans to build three homes in place of his garage and sell them on. A planning application has already been submitted to Cotswold District Council.

He explained: “That was what I was advised was the best thing to do.

“I did not want someone to build something horrible. I have lived here for decades. The neighbours know me, and I have talked to them about what is going on.”

Two of his staff members will be setting up their own garages elsewhere. Graham Saunders will be opening up The New Bennetts Garage in Chesterton Lane, Cirencester (01285 653 020) and Luke Curtis will be opening LMC Motor Services Ltd in Highworth (01793 766 255).