A PASSION for fixing cars passed from one generation to the next has spawned a thriving family business which prides itself on its personal touch.
Barry Nicoll has always had a love of motors since his father set up Burlington Garage in Burlington Mews, Acton , back in 1956.
He watched his father fix cars from the age of six and first started working at the garage when he was 15.
The 62-year-old took over the garage from his brother in 1977 and now his own son and wife help ensure the business goes from strength to strength.
He said: “I love hearing the sound of the engine and working on the body work of the cars, it’s something I’ve grown up to love. I like to have a connection with customers when dealing with them face to face. They become friends and you find yourself asking them how their families are doing. It gets nice and personal.”
Barry's wife takes care of the financial side of the business while his son, Henry, 25, does the marketing and advertising.
Henry said: "I don't get my hands dirty but we all have a passion for cars."
Barry said he is proud his garage, which relocated to Birbeck Road 30 years ago, is so highly thought of in the area.
He said: “The atmosphere of the garage is nice and friendly we meet different people day in day out. It gives it that personal touch.
“We never overprice our services and we don’t add anything to a bill without consulting with the customer and if something’s not done to the standard they want, people feel comfortable enough to come back and we always rectify the problem. It feels good to know people trust us.
“We serve regulars who have had three generations from their family come here. We get to know customers’ sons and fathers. It’s really nice, it’s a rewarding job.”
