'We’re all delighted to be back,' Wordsley garage manager says as site reopens more than 18 months after a severe fire
A garage which has been serving the community in Wordsley and Stourbridge for 75 years has finally reopened its doors after a major refit after it was gutted by fire more than 18 months ago.
Protyre Autocare, in Camp Hill, Wordsley, has welcomed customers back to a completely refurbished centre which has undergone a full fit-out to include new and more comfortable reception and waiting areas.
The business had been closed since a fire ripped through the building on March 19 2024 but it officially reopened its doors on October 6, with long-serving staff members delighted to be back at the garage which traces its history back to the 1950s.
Previously known as Chemix Autocentres, the site was acquired by Protyre Autocare in 2014. The refurbished facility has now been brought up to date with Protyre signage but the team comprising of some of the same familiar faces.
Boasting nearly 90 years’ service between them, workshop manager Gary Mills, centre manager Donna Mullis and vehicle technician Simon Pardoe form the backbone of the team.
Gary has clocked up 31 years with the business, Donna joined 15 years ago, and Simon has completed an incredible 42 years’ service at the garage.
Donna said: “I joined as a part-time retail assistant and have worked my way up to centre manager.
“The company is all for offering career progression and enabling me to gain extra qualifications, and I really enjoy working with the people here.
“The refit is beautiful and we’re all delighted to be back in Stourbridge.”
Gary said: “I’ve been a mechanic ever since I left school at 16 and I’m now workshop manager, passing on my knowledge to the team.
“I love the job. You have to keep updating what you do, because the technology changes every time a new car model comes out, and it’s a challenge I relish.”
Jonathan Davies, regional director at Protyre Autocare, said: “We’re delighted to welcome customers back to our Stourbridge centre following the extensive refit, where they will be greeted by the same friendly faces they will have known for many decades.
“The refit looks fantastic and we hope customers enjoy the experience next time they visit.
“The centre will continue operating in the best traditions of our renowned customer service, with a pledge to offer free, unbiased and zero-obligation advice to keep Stourbridge’s motorists moving safely."
The fire, which caused significant damage to the old garage building and left the main road closed for some hours while more than 40 firefighters tackled the flames, was determined to have been started accidentally - West Midlands Fire Service said at the time, but no further information was provided.
The garage, which offers MOTs, services and tyres, is part of Protyre Autocare's network of 184 centres across the UK.
