A garage in the village of Fenstanton in Cambridgeshire has closed after 40 years of serving the local community.
Mo’s Motors was established by owner Mo Moussi in 1983, who started the business with the help of just one apprentice. The garage became a valuable part of the community, employing five trained technicians and supporting local groups and charities, such as the village youth football team and England’s Strongest Man competition.
The garage closed for good at the end of September, with the service reception telling CambridgeshireLive: “We just can’t get the mechanics and we can’t keep running on a skeleton team of staff. No one is applying.”
With owner Mo now in his seventies, he’s decided it’s time to shut up shop.
Posting on a community Facebook group, one local resident said: “Mo, Gary and all the team, have been serving Fenstanton and the surrounding area for decades. It’s going to be a massive loss for Fenstanton, who they always put first. Enjoy your retirement Mo and all the best to Gary and team.”
Another said: “So sad to hear that Mo’s Motors is closing its doors this week. I’ve been using them for the past 15 years and have always had amazing service. The staff have always been lovely and they’re very accommodating and will go above and beyond for their customers.
“Although, the closure is partly down to retirement it is also, unfortunately a sign of the times. Such a loss of an amazing company, I wish all the staff well in whatever and wherever they move onto. I wish them all the best in finding new jobs and I wish Mo a happy and long retirement.”
Commenting on the shortage of mechanics, Thomas Hart said: “Huge shortage of mechanics and testers so I’m sure he’s tried to find staff but it’s only going to get worse; expected to be 35,000 shortfall within the next five years in the trade.
“Unfortunately the money isn’t anywhere near good enough for the amount of effort that goes into becoming a qualified tech not to mention the expense of setting yourself up with tens of thousands of pounds worth of tools, young guys and girls know there are easier ways to make a living – it’s only going to get worse I’m afraid.”
Source: CambridgeshireLive