SOLD: Eveleighs Garage Services

Friday 13th can bring good fortune!

Eveleighs Garage Services was established in Exeter in 1936 and was originally situated at the top of Sidwell Street and Ackland Terrace. John Payne purchased the business 11 years ago from what was the third generation of the Eveleigh family operating the business. John had been running an independent VAG (Volkswagen Audi Group) garage where he was joined by Neil Fretwell and Gary Blackford who were Volkswagen/Audi technicians. John had had a long history of trading with Eveleighs Garage and took over the business and ran it from a garage workshop behind Queen Street near the Clocktower Roundabout in Exeter. John said it was a pleasure to come back together again with Neil and Gary a few years later at Eveleighs Garage along with Rob (the shire horse) Bedford and Carol Keens who took care of the office duties.

However looking to move on to pastures new, John Payne was in discussions with business transfer agents, Beardsley Theobalds about selling his business. At this time, Beardsley Theobalds were approached by Darren Pool who was working for one of the major franchised dealerships but was looking to have his own business. As Eveleighs Garage met Darren’s requirements, a valuation of the garage business was carried out and a deal was brokered.

Darren has been in the motor trade for 24 years and served his apprenticeship with a Volvo main dealer in Exeter. He has had a variety of roles within main dealer businesses from motor technician to service manager. After working alongside John Payne to get to know the set up and gaining required qualifications, the transfer was completed on Friday 13th February.

John Payne wishes to pass on his thanks to his customers at the garage for their support and loyalty and while Darren is looking to modernise the business he says he will not stray away from its traditional values. Also, the staff of Rob, Gary, Neil and Carol will remain with the business.
The business carries out servicing and M.o.T. tests and, being located in the centre of Exeter, is ideal for people to drop their cars off on their way to work and pick them up at the end of the day.