Accident repair group Howard Basford has secured approval from Ford for its branch in Mold, North Wales.

It means the outlet is now part of the Ford Accident Repair network, reports Liverpool Daily Post.co.uk

Tracy Howard, Howard Basford chairman said: "I am delighted with this manufacturer approval, as we have enjoyed a somewhat special relationship with Ford over the past 10 years.

"There is no doubt over the last five years a growing number of dealers have pulled away from a direct involvement in providing bodyshop services in favour of developing arrangements with local indpendents."