A GARAGE in Ellesmere Port is officially the best independent auto centre in the UK.

Port Tyres & Autocare on Flatt Lane received the ‘Garage of Excellence’ accolade at the annual Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) Awards.

Owner Craig Warburton was presented with the accolade by Nick Best, IAAF president, at the federation’s Gala Dinner in the Hilton Metropole Hotel at the NEC in Birmingham.

Established more 25 years ago, Port Tyres & Autocare, which has a workforce of 10, offers a service to private motorists as well as business fleets.

Mr Warburton said: “It’s a great honour for me and the whole team to have won this prestigious award.

“We are thrilled that it’s a national award. There’s no greater accolade than to be recognised by your peers in your own industry.

“Port Tyres has built its reputation on a value for money, quality service delivered by well trained professionals.

“We don’t rest on our laurels; we’re always looking how we can improve – upgrading our equipment, investing in technology and ongoing training, whether that’s with our supplier partners or in-house.”

Steve McCann, managing director of Chester-based CES (UK), a long time automotive parts supplier to Port Tyres, said: “Having supplied them for many years, CES has long known that Port Tyres & Autocare is an extremely professional and well-run garage.

“It’s great this has now been formally recognised with the IAAF award.

“Everyone at CES offers their congratulations to Craig and his team for winning this award – it’s richly deserved.”

To celebrate winning the award, Port Tyres is offering all Chronicle readers a free winter safety check worth £29.99. You can book your safety check by calling Port Tyres on 0151 356 4565.