THE Princes St Garage in Cleator Moor is entering a new, modern era, as long-time owner Trevor Grears hands the garage over to a new generation.

New owner – mechanic Scott Rigg, 32 – will officially open on Tuesday August 31 and offer a full range of mechanic services.

Trevor said that the garage has a rich history and dates back to the 1940s. Old pictures show the garage with Esso petrol pumps out on the street and buses lining up to be serviced.

Other old pictures depict Whelan’s coaches, run by original owner Frank Whelan, carrying adverts for “Princes Garage”.

Trevor himself took over the garage in early 1988, and he and Frank Whelan had their photo snapped at the time, with Trevor demonstrating what he describes as a “Bay City Rollers” look.

Now, 33 years later, Trevor and new owner Scott Rigg have recreated that photo, with the baton being passed to a new generation.

Trevor is confident in the garage’s future. “Scott is well schooled in both old and modern cars, including electric and hydrogen engines,” he said. “It’s amazing how the garage has progressed, from doing old buses to hydrogen cars.

“He’s a local lad with a strong family support group. It’s in good hands and it’s got a good future.”

New owner Scott Rigg said he’s been a mechanic for 17 years, working for J Edgar & Son and is experienced with a large range of different cars, including new energy vehicles.

“You never stop learning in this game,” he said. “But it’s a big jump having a place by yourself. It’s exciting times.”

He added that there is an element of prestige to taking over a garage with a bit of history like this one. “I’m the next generation,” he said.

Trevor added: “Hopefully the garage will have a long and happy future.”