North-east dealer group Hodgson has added Mitsubishi to its portfolio of franchises, which include Toyota, Mazda and Suzuki.

The new franchise has been added to Hodgson’s Silverlink site and has created six new jobs, including sales advisors, management and mechanics.

Deborah Stevens has been working with the Mitsubishi brand for over 20 years will lead the team which includes sales manager Ricky Reed and transaction manager, Mike Mirley.

Stevens said: “Despite the headlines that scream the contrary, people are still buying cars, but are more discerning about where they buy from in the current market conditions.”

Hodgson Mitsubishi is the latest development for the family run company.

Steve Hodgson, managing director, said: "We've been around for 50 years and have seen tough times in the industry before.

"What has ensured that we’ve always emerged successful despite market conditions is that we’ve remained true to the values that the business was built upon – service, honesty, trust and appreciation. As a result we have a loyal customer base who have been returning to us throughout the generations."

The company currently employs 140 staff across its two sites and was established in 1959.