Independent family-owned Matt Johnson Prestige has doubled the size of its team following the closure of a nearby retailer.

Five new members of staff have joined the team as the business prepares to expand its vehicle inventory and services on offer.

Established in 2018, the company retails sports and prestige cars across the UK from its base in Abbey Road, Barrow-in-Furness.

Managing director Matt Johnson offered jobs to employees of Furness Park, when plans to close its retail operations were recently announced.

He said: “We were saddened to learn about the closure of Furness Park.

“For decades, they had flown the flag for quality vehicle sales in south Cumbria and we had many friends within the business.

“Finding great people is not always easy, and when the closure was announced, my thoughts immediately turned to the team members who would be looking for work.

“I’m over the moon to have been able to offer roles within Matt Johnson Prestige to so many talented individuals.

“Along with my existing team, we will work together as we plan the expansion of the business and its services.”

Former Furness Park service manager Dan Evans, who had worked at the business for more than 15 years, is among the new recruits and will be working with Johnsont to develop a retail service arm.

And there are plans to offer exclusive Williams Ceramic Coating treatments for clients buying a car from the dealership.

Matt Johnson Prestige has a client base that stretches from Aberdeen to Cornwall and its stock ranges from £20k family SUVs to £150,000-plus supercars.

The new recruits take the number of team members at the dealership to 11.

Johnson said: “Anyone in the car industry will tell you it's as close to a 24-hour job as it gets. The phone is never off and the pace is fast.

“But it’s hugely rewarding and I love nothing more than to see the smile on a client’s face as they drive away in their dream car.

“It makes every day worthwhile - and with such an amazing team by my side, I’m very positive about the future.”