Volvo car dealer Mill Garages has reported its seventh year of of profitable growth - which has given it the confidence to invest in a £500,000 showroom refurbishment.

In its 2014 results the company reported turnover at £97.8 milliion up from £90.6m in 2013, profit before tax of £803,000 (2013: £752,000)

Finance director Simon Hewitson said: "We've seen a strong performance which, in the market conditions, we're happy with.

“The growing popularity of the Volvo brand, alongside our strong aftersales performance, gives us confidence to commit to a major showroom refurbishment programme. We will be investing £500,000 into our Stockton dealership later this year to bring a new retail experience to our customers, and are looking forward to further growth.”

Chairman Bob Nicholson said: “The company is now in a position to invest in new staff and technology in order to enhance our position in the market place and move the Volvo franchise to the levels that all of the new product deserves.”

Mill Garages, which employs 176 people, was established in 1947. 2015 see it mark 50 years selling Volvo cars.

The launch of the all-new XC90 sports utility vehicle in early summer and the start of the refurbishment programme are expected to contribute towards a year of substantial growth.

Managing director Bill Ward and Nicholson led a management buyout of the business in 2008.

Image: Mill Garages' chairman Bob Nicholson, managing director Bill Ward, operations director Jeff Tabb and finance director Simon Hewitson