Shock closure after 32 years

A major Cannock car dealership has suddenly closed its doors after 32 years trading in the town.

Shocked workers were told to leave Cannock Automobiles Ltd at 5pm last night and not return.

This morning the Stafford Road showroom was locked up and all of the used prestige cars that it specialised in have been removed.

A member of staff, who asked not want to be named, said: "The staff were just told to leave and were escorted off the premises. We were told there would be 24-hour security over the weekend. It is disgusting that some staff have been there for more than 20 years and had no notice."

He said he believed customers who had paid deposits for new cars had had them returned, but he did not think the warranties on previously sold cars would continue.

He added: "I think customers have the right to know, especially the ones that are having trouble with cars they have bought."

Jack Kmnakh, who works at a car wash and valeting service near to the showroom, says he is owed money for work he carried out for Cannock Automobiles.

He said: "Yesterday it was full of cars but today they have disappeared. It closed down suddenly last night.

"I've heard it's going to be knocked down and developed into flats but I don't know for sure. I'm shocked and disgusted because I haven't been paid for the work I've done."

Cannock Automobiles is registered as trading from Suite D, Astor House, Lichfield Road, Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield.

No-one from the company was available for comment today.

Exclusive by Jo Mason