A LONGSTANDING dealership which has seen fresh ownership this year is in the running for a nationwide used car dealership award.

Motor Connect, in Manchester Road in Lostock Gralam, has been shortlisted for Newcomer of the Year at the Car Dealer magazine's Used Car Awards.

Having taken over from the Lee family, who retired along with the Motorite brand after more than 60 years in the industry, the new dealership's team has retained the traditional family values.

With the awards nominated by customers and clients and then judged by mystery shoppers, the team is proud to have made an impression since opening for business on July 1.

Wayne Farinha, who moved to the business when Steve Corwood took over in the summer, said: "We are very family oriented.

"The Lee brothers have bee known around Northwich for 60 years, and when they wanted to retire Steve took over the site.

"Steve, Graham and I have worked together on and off for 15 years, and Steve's brother and dad are also now involved.

"We have retained people who worked here as well so there is still that family feel."

The awards will be handed out at a London ceremony on Monday, November 26.

Nominees in the newcomer category must have been in operation for five years of less, and so Motor Connect's good impression has been made quicker than most.

"What we have said all along is, as a company, we want to set the standard of combining old-school values with a modern way of selling cars."