Sartins Garage to close after more than 70 years in operation

Sartins Garage, in Devizes Road, has been in owner Tim Sartin's family for three generations. 

However, he recently announced that the garage would be closing its door for the last time on Thursday, February 8. 

The garage has been in operation for more than 70 years.

Mr Sartin said: “The garage has gone through many changes over the past 75 years to keep up with the ever-changing economy and consumer demands.

"There has been a rapid change in recent years to the car sales market and Jason and I felt that it was the right time for us to bow out of the rat race. 

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“We are both moving on to new ventures, and although it’s sad to say goodbye to the garage, that has been in the family for three generations, now is the right time to allow us to focus on our future with our own families."

Mr Sartin speculated on a Facebook post that the old barn will "probably get knocked down and redeveloped in the not too distant future". 

He added: “We are humbled by all the support and well wishes we have received over the last few weeks, we have been furnished with lots of lovely stories of my late grandfather Larry, who was the original owner and shared memories of my dad Nigel, who we lost suddenly in 2022. We pass our thanks on to our local community and customers for their part in this legacy.”

A post on the Fisherton History Society about the closure was flooded with tributes and well wishes. 

Former deputy news editor at the Journal, Roland Batten, said: "Very much part of the Salisbury scene. Shame to see it go but time marches on. Happy retirement." 

It will close on Thursday, February 8, and people are welcome to go and take photographs of the inside of the old barn between 9am and 3pm.