Jobs saved at car dealers

More than 30 jobs have been saved at a Stafford town centre car dealership after a new owner was found for the business.

A total of 36 posts at the former Mike Thompson Peugeot dealership on Newport Road are now secure after the takeover by franchisee Randles.

Mike Thompson Peugeot went into administration in early December due to the ongoing decline in the motor industry. However, the business continued trading while a buyer was found and this week, administrators Baker Tilly Restructuring and Recovery LLP announced that Randles had taken the reins.

Randles, which has been selling cars in Staffordshire since 1952, says it will honour all commitments made to customers of the previous Mike Thompson dealership.

It will be holding a major sale in January to make way for new stock.

Group managing director Phil Wade also said a major refurbishment was planned for the town centre dealership and Randles may bring a Suzuki franchise onto the site later this year. Mr Wade said: "We worked very hard to take over the business.

"We have inherited a very professional team which we intend to build on throughout 2009.

"We are looking forward to serving the local community with high levels of customer care and providing value for money products."