Bristol Street Motors Cheltenham Ford has welcomed a new general manager, Martyn Thorley.

Thorley started his career in the motor industry as an apprentice technician, aged 16.

Following his graduation as master technician, he then became a workshop controller before completing the Institute of the Motor Industry managers’ exam. Thorley then held a number of management positions before joining the team at Bristol Street Motors, part of Vertu Motors, on Hayden Road.

The dealership was recently presented with the prestigious Chairman’s Award from Ford UK.

The award recognises the top dealers across the country and is assessed on research, carried out by Ford, to assess exactly how customers feel about the quality of attention they receive from their dealer.

Thorley said: “It’s fantastic to join Bristol Street Motors Cheltenham Ford. Bristol Street Motors has a great reputation and I’m pleased to be part of such a successful team.

“The fact the dealership has been just received the Ford Chairman’s Award speaks volumes about the excellent customer service that my new colleagues deliver.”

Ian Harrison, who oversees Bristol Street Motors’ Ford division, welcomed Thorley to the group, said: “Martyn lives and breathes cars. It’s fantastic to have someone with such experience and knowledge joining Bristol Street Motors, and we’re sure he will be an important asset to the business.”