A merger of Karl Vella Group, Alton Cars Group and KC Autos Group has created a £30m turnover bodyshop business.

The three companies have joined forces to create a new group, Synergy Accident Repair Group, with 12 accident repair centres.

It aims to expand to provide national coverage for its work providers.

"The intention is to give work providers real alternatives in the current UK market," said a spokesman.

It has opened a new call centre in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, from which all new instructions will be taken and allocated to the appropriate bodyshop.