Brunel Ford in Bristol, part of the Ford Retail group, has made a unique agreement with local dealer Brakes Motor Company in Ilminster.

Under the terms of the agreement, Brakes Motor Company will remain an independent business and will be supplied with Ford vehicles and parts, administration and marketing support by Brunel Ford.

Brakes Motor Company dealer principal, John Charles, said: “We are pleased with the terms of the agreement and have already undertaken an extensive refurbishment in order to bring us in line with Ford’s high standards of showroom styling.

"We are keen to establish ourselves as a leading Ford dealer and we believe that we can achieve this with the practical support and expertise of Brunel Ford.”

The link between Brunel Ford and Brakes of Ilminster is one of the first of its kind under the new programme by Ford Motor Company, which is helping smaller dealerships with practical advice and support.

James Rant, Brunel Ford regional director, said he is looking forward to developing the working relationship. He added: “It’s a fantastic way for us to widen our umbrella into the community.”