Bridge Garage reopens one year after devastating fire

By Approved Garages | 27 Jul 2023

On 27th June 2022, David Garner and Jon Hollins, owners of Bridge Garage, Cramlington in the Northeast, received news that all business owners dread. At around 6pm a fire in a neighbouring garden had spread to their business, causing significant damage.

Over the following weeks and after building inspections had taken place it became apparent that the business would have to stay shut for at least the rest of the year whilst the garage was completely rebuilt, and all equipment replaced.

Keeping customers updated via social media, David and Jon received an influx of well wishes from both customers and members of the public, all hoping to see the garage back up and running quickly as they didn’t want to take their vehicles anywhere else.

Jon and David were in regular contact with the AutoCare office as well as their supporting GROUPAUTO member, Northumbria Car & Commercial (NCC).

Bridge Garage Fire Damage:

 

 

Maria McCullough, AutoCare network manager explained that, “We were horrified to hear about the fire and when we received photos at the office, we couldn’t believe our eyes! We feared for the future of the garage for both Jon and David”.

Bridge Garage joined Approved Garages partner network, AutoCare on 1st May 2005 and have been a very proactive and supportive member of the network, attending regional meetings and conferences every year. With members at the forefront of everything they do, the AutoCare team wanted to ensure that they did everything they could to support Jon and David throughout the very difficult time.

Bridge Garage - One Year On

Just over a year later, the garage owners and their customers finally got their wish.

On 3rd July 2023 Bridge Garage reopened for business. With the help from the team at Workshop Pro and NCC, the garage has been kitted out with the latest equipment ready for any vehicle that comes through the doors.

Thankfully, David and Jon were covered by AutoCare's Insurance Partner, Boswells or else this could have been the end of their business.

David and Jon couldn’t praise Boswells enough for their assistance throughout the whole ordeal. Their amazing cover and help from the team proved priceless during the process.

From everyone here in the Approved Garages team, we wish David, Jon and the rest of their team at Bridge Garage the very best of luck and every success in the future. We are delighted they are back in business and able to look after their loyal customers as well as new customers once more.