Vertu Motors’ chief executive Robert Forrester has commemorated the group’s longest serving colleagues with a special lunch was held at Newcastle's Jesmond Dene House Hotel.

The 11 employees that received recognition at the event have racked up more than 310 years of service between them.

Among the colleagues celebrated at the lunch were Steve Harvey, who has worked at the Farnell Land Rover Bury site in various roles for more than 55 years, and James Lessel, who has worked in the workshop department of the Macklin Motors Dunfermline site for 40 years.

Forrester, said: “In addition to investing in training and development, Vertu believes in recognising commitment and years of hard work from its colleagues.

“Our group would not be such a success without the outstanding people who go above and beyond what is required of them on a daily basis.

"We have colleagues who have worked at their dealerships since starting an apprenticeship, and go on to spend years at the location.

"This longevity adds real credibility, not just to our Group, but for our customers and the communities our dealerships’ operate in.

“It has been a pleasure to spend an afternoon with such fantastic people. I would like to thank them for their support and look forward to the years to come.”