Preston Hall, the Stockton-on-Tees based dealership, part of European Motor Holdings (EMH), has been named BMW Dealer of the Year.

Preston Hall, first won its regional heat in the North East, then scooped the national award by beating 158 BMW/Mini dealerships.

The trophy was presented by BMW UK managing director, Jim O’Donnell, at the manufacturer’s annual conference and dinner, held at the Tate Modern gallery in London.

The judging included unannounced audits, examining factors like the presentation of Preston Hall’s used cars; surveys of employee morale and customer feedback; and assessments of more basic measures such as the volume of sales, service hours and administrative processes.