A couple who launched their own garage services business in Yetminster during lockdown say they have been overwhelmed with the welcome they have received from villagers.
Richard and Emma Cable had long wanted to start up their own business. But they were wary of doing so while covid wreaked havoc on the economy.
However they were intrigued when the business in Yetminster became available and despite their misgivings Richard went for a look around.
Emma said: “We thought it really wasn’t a sensible time to be opening a business, but Richard went to have a look and met the previous owner Malcolm, and it just felt the right fit. We spent couple of months talking it through, but it was just right for us.”
Richard, 32, and Emma, 31, have three young children. The oldest is Memphis 10, who was named after Nicholas Cage’s character in Gone in 60 Seconds. “That’s what we called the bump,” said Emma. “Then when he was born it just seemed odd to call him anything else.”
Memphis wants to get into car manufacture when he grows up and has been busy creating designs for some years now. Second child Tamsin, five, would love to work with Daddy and Otto, who is nearly two, likes nothing better than being in the workshop. Life can get very busy and the pair hope to be able to take on staff over the next year or so, to enable them to take a break now and then.
The biggest surprise to the pair is how supportive villagers have been. Emma said: “The former owner Malcolm owns Express Motor Parts by the side of the garage and Buccaneer Motor group car sales, and it’s great to have his support. Villagers have been absolutely amazing. They have been so welcoming and really genuinely supportive. It’s an amazing village.” Tel: 01305
The garage, Autotech Yetminster, is right next to train station in the village and they have a courtesy car, so there are options for people who don’t live in Yetminster but who would like to use the garage.
Feedback from customers has included plenty of praise for the newly decorated premises. Emma said: “We had a lot of help from our family getting it up and running. All the family have come over, painting, cleaning and moving stuff around. It’s been a real family effort – my dad spent a month filling, sanding and painting the reception – we couldn’t have done it without them all.”
Richard has been a mechanic since he left school. He’s worked for fantastic local garages and spent time working at Haynes Motor Museum, all of which he enjoyed. Richard’s most recent employer has been incredibly supportive of the move. Richard said: “James (Curtis) has been really encouraging as always and it’s so nice to have that support
from him.”
Now he offers a full range of garage services including MoTs, tyres, clutches, wheel balancing – anything you might need a garage for.
Emma said: “He wants to build something for the kids, to pass down to them.
“It was quite scary at first, because we had plenty of customers for the first month then lockdown was lifted and people all just went on holiday and forgot about their cars.
“Then the impact of the Government’s MoT extension a year on meant it was quiet for a while but when September came there was a big rush on MOTs.”
She added: “It’s an important thing to have in a little village and we are hoping to build a little Autotech Yetminster team. Our feedback is great, because Richard is so honest and trustworthy. That makes a big difference because a lot of places don’t take the time to explain what’s needed and why, he also helps people to keep costs down wherever possible.”
MoTs at Autotech Yetminster cost £54.85, and customers booking before February 25 can get 10 per cent off if they mention this magazine.
Autotech Yetminster is open 8.30am-5.30pm Monday to Friday and Saturdays by appointment.
Call 01935 872239 or go to autotechyetminster.com to book in.