Another win for Oldfields at the British Independent Garage of the Year Awards

Monday 30th September 2024

We’ve been named ‘Garage of the Year’ at the 2024 British Independent Garage of the Year Awards and it marks the third major accolade for the business in the last year.

Oldfields Garage scooped the award in the ‘Small Garage’ category during a prestigious ceremony hosted by TV presenter, Mark Durden-Smith at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole on Friday 20th September.

Tim Benson, managing director at Oldfields Garage said: “This latest award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, who always go above and beyond for our customers.

“We take great pride in delivering an excellent service, and it’s an honour to be recognised for doing what we love.”

The British Independent Garage of the Year Awards recognise outstanding achievements in the industry, showcasing the top garage businesses, suppliers, and individuals in the UK.

Earlier this year, we won the ‘Independent Garage of the Year’ award at the 2024 CAT Awards, hosted by trade magazine, Car Aftermarket Trader. The garage was also named ‘Top Garage 2023’ by judges as part of a national garage competition.

Mr Benson said: “Winning three national awards in just one year is truly incredible.

“It’s a proud moment for our business and highlights the consistent quality and dedication we bring to everything we do.”

The garage’s commitment to excellence has earned it a loyal customer base, with drivers returning not only for routine servicing and maintenance but also for complex diagnostic work.

Stuart James, CEO of the Independent Garage Association (IGA), the organisation behind the British Independent Garage of the Year Awards, said: “Independent garages play a vital part in the economy, and these awards highlight the crucial role they play in keeping the industry thriving. Congratulations to all the winners and finalists.”

September MOT demand surge

Thursday 22nd August 2024

We’re advising customers to book their September MOT early this year as the UK braces for an unprecedented surge in demand.

An estimated 3.4 million cars will require an MOT next month, according to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).

The record-braking surge is driven by the high volume of new car sales from three years ago, with those vehicles now reaching their first MOT requirement.

Tim Benson, Oldfields Garage owner said: “We’ve handled busy MOT seasons in the past, but this year is shaping up to be exceptional.

“To make sure you’re not caught off guard by the surge in demand, we strongly recommend booking your MOT as early as possible to avoid the rush and any last-minute stress.”

To avoid the increased demand affecting your schedule, we strongly recommend booking your MOT now and as close to your expiry date as possible.

This will help us to manage the volume fairly for all our customers. Simply follow this link to book your MOT and Service for a date as close to your expiry as possible.

Mr Benson said: “Drivers can quickly check their MOT expiry date by visiting the GOV.UK website.

“Simply go to the ‘check the MOT status of a vehicle’ page and enter your vehicle’s registration number.

“You can also sign up to receive free text or email reminders a month before your MOT is due for renewal.”

If you’ve accidentally missed your expiry date or find that our online bookings are full, don’t panic!

Please give us a call on 01568 612436 or send us an email and we’ll do our best to accommodate you wherever possible

Drivers can book an MOT at Oldfields Garage online at https://www.oldfieldsgarage.co.uk/book/ or by calling us.

Oldfields Renews Vixens Sponsorship for 2024!

Thursday 8th August 2024

We’re pleased to announce the renewal of our title sponsorship for the Luctonians Vixens rugby team!

It comes as the Vixens prepare to compete in the Women’s NC 3 Midlands (West) division for a second year. Their opening game of the season will see them come up against the Stone Ladies during a clash on Sunday 15th September.

Tim Benson, managing director at Oldfields Garage said: “Seeing the Vixens grow into a strong and cohesive team of players, from all walks of life, has been nothing short of amazing. We are incredibly proud to support a local club that focuses on inspiring young people and nurturing home-grown talent. We look forward to witnessing their continued success on and off the field.”

As one of the fastest growing female sports in the country, the Luctonians established the women’s contact side in 2023.

Charlotte Brown, commercial and events manager at the Luctonians Sports Club, said: “The backing of Oldfields Garage spurred us on last season to successfully achieve our main aim of fielding a full team, plus subs, for every fixture and we were thrilled with a fourth-place finish. Now, the focus for the Vixens is on the upcoming season and the continued support of Oldfields is appreciated by all the team.”

The Luctonians club has strong connections with England women’s national rugby union hooker, Lark Atkin-Davies who recently visited the club to see the legacy that’s continuing to inspire more women into the game.

Lark said: “There is a huge opportunity to engage and grow the girls’ game, especially as we lead up to hosting the Rugby World Cup 2025. Rugby has given me so much, and I’m excited to see more girls giving rugby a go as we build towards next year’s Rugby World Cup.”

Our Owen named UK’s youngest EV-qualified mechanic

Wednesday 17th July 2024

Our very own apprentice mechanic, Owen Lloyd has become the youngest vehicle technician in the UK independent sector to be awarded with an Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) Level 3 qualification in hybrid and electric vehicles at just 19 years of age.

Remarkably, Owen achieved the milestone before completing his Level 3 apprenticeship, which he’s currently finishing at Herefordshire, Ludlow and North Shropshire College while gaining hands-on experience at Oldfields Garage in Leominster.

“I want to stay up to date, and it seems electric vehicles (EVs) are going to be increasingly important,” said Owen. “Not many garages have EV qualifications around here, so it’s a big advantage having that box ticked, and it’s amazing to think that I’m the youngest in the country with this qualification.”

Owen has one final exam in August before completing his apprenticeship, when he plans to take on a full-time role here at Oldfields Garage.

Garage owner, Tim Benson said: “We’re extremely proud of Owen on this achievement. This is an exciting time for young people to join the industry, especially with the rapid advancements in vehicle technology. Owen’s success demonstrates the potential that apprentices have when given the opportunity to grow and feel valued within a business.”

With the increasing prevalence of hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs) on Herefordshire’s roads, we’re continuing to invest in the training and equipment needed to service and repair today’s increasingly advanced vehicles.

Tim added: “These credentials ensure that technicians at Oldfields Garage are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills to safely and effectively service and repair even the most advanced vehicles. By investing in EV training, we’re not just preparing for the future; we’re ensuring our customers receive the highest level of care and expertise, no matter what type of vehicle they drive.”

We now have the capability to MOT, service and repair any hybrid or EV.

Luke Garratt, UK Technical Services Manager at Delphi, where Owen completed his Level 3 qualification in hybrid and EVs, said: “Owen should be incredibly proud of his accomplishment. Completing the EV IMI Level 3 qualification at such a young age, and before even finishing his apprenticeship, is a testament to his dedication and hard work.”