Car garage announces closure after six decades in business

Mylchreests in Douglas to shut sales, servicing and parts operation

A garage in Douglas has confirmed it will close at Easter almost 65 years after it first opened.

Mylchreests, on New Castletown Road, is shutting its sales, servicing and parts operation on 17 April.

The business was first opened on Westmoreland Road by Brian Mylchreest six decades ago.

Chairman David Mylchreest said: “As we edge closer to the beginning of our 65th year serving the Manx public it is with a heavy heart that we announce the closing of our sales, servicing and parts operation.

“This is a decision we are making with extreme reluctance and one that is tinged with great sadness given the loyalty of staff and customers on the Island over generations.”

Managing Director James Mylchreest added: “The retail motor industry has changed hugely over the past decade.

"During which time we have witnessed the closure or streamlining of a number of smaller independent garages and family-run businesses throughout the Island and the UK.

“This is a trend that we anticipate will continue for some time and one which makes a small, franchised operation such as ours increasingly challenging.

“As a result we have taken a realistic long-term view and plan to readapt accordingly.

“Naturally our current priority is to support our colleagues in the best way we can and ensure our valued customers receive any assistance they may require.

“In the meantime we would like to express our gratitude for the loyal support of our staff, suppliers and customers and would like to sincerely thank the wider Isle of Man community for their friendship over more than 60 years.

“It has been a genuine privilege to be such a major part of the Island’s motoring heritage for so long.”

Mylchreests Group has confirmed its car rental business, located at the Isle of Man Airport, will continue.