Friends get own show on road

Mar 24 2008 by Karen Dent, The Journal

TWO old school friends who have almost 40 years’ experience in the car service industry have pooled their expertise to start their own business.

Tony Johnson and Graeme Weatherston teamed up to launch Ashington Service Centre after securing a £3,000 grant from Go Wansbeck, the Local Enterprise Growth Initiative for the area.

The garage, which does car repairs and servicing, is at the town’s Jubilee Industrial Estate. Although both partners have worked in the car service industry at managerial level and worked together at National Tyres, this is their first business venture.

Mr Johnson said: “We are a local garage committed to offering the very best customer service to local people, building up long term business relations making them want to come back again and again for all their car servicing needs.” Mr Weatherston said: “Having the financial backing from Go Wansbeck made the world of difference to us, as it meant we could fit the business out to offer a completely professional service from day one.

“It’s the chance to be your own boss – you are in control of your own destiny.”

The pair are currently staffing the business themselves but say they will be looking to employ an apprentice before the end of the year.