Hugely popular family-run garage closes down before Christmas – with firm ‘sad for this chapter to close’ after 53 years
A HUGELY popular garage has recently closed its door for good after some 53 years in business.
Wootton Bassett Service Station, Swindon, closed in November after the business’s director announced his retirement.
Situated on Royal Wootton Bassett’s High Street, the much-loved mechanic and MOT service served generations of local customers before its 75-year-old director retired at the end of November.
Brian Holder, who joined as a mechanic in 1970, took over as director in 2000 and built up a reputation as one of the most reliable services in town.
While Wootton Bassett Service Station will close when Brian leaves, it was confirmed that Wayne Holder, Brian’s son, will open a new garage in Cricklade.
As reported by the Wiltshire Gazette and Herald, a spokesperson for Wootton Bassett Service Station said: “To all customers past and present, we would like to inform you that as of November 30, 2024, Wootton Bassett Service Station will cease trading.
“This is due to the retirement of Brian Holder after 53 years.
“We are sad for this chapter to close, however, the good news is that Wayne will continue on, under the new name Wayne Holder Vehicle Service and Repair.
“From Brian, Ann, Wayne, Kevin, Zoe, Mike and Olly, we would like to thank you all again and hope to see your continued support in Wayne’s new venture.”
Ann, who has run the admin side of the garage for more than 20 years and is also retiring, added: “The lease is coming up on the premises anyway so I think that made him think now might be the right time to retire.
“He’ll probably be slightly involved in Wayne’s new place for a while though because I’m sure he’s not going to retire easily.”
Dozens of tributes came pouring in for Brian.
One resident said: “I wish you happiness but as a customer of 45 years, I’m gutted.”
“You and your team have always treated me and my vehicles with courtesy and care.”
Another added: “Wootton Bassett Service Station is the best garage in Bassett hands down.
“It’s a massive loss to the town but a well-earned retirement.”
This comes just days after we reported a major Audi dealership is suddenly closing after 15 years of business – and no one knows why.
The owners of the showroom in Bradford, Yorks confirmed the news after weeks of speculation.
The company Sytner’s website was updated with the message: “We’re closed.
“We regret to inform you that Bradford Audi has permanently closed.
“Please find out alternative dealerships listed below.”
The dealership currently remains open, but staff have been told to spread the news of the forthcoming closure to any customers, according to the Telegraph & Argus.