Mercedes-Benz dealers have succeeded in getting an early court hearing in their battle to force DaimlerChrysler to withdraw its contract termination notices.

Today at the High Court in London the judge, Lord Chief Justice Cresswell agreed with protesting dealers that the case should be heard as soon as possible and scheduled the full hearing for July 16.

The hearing is due to last up to five days.

Albert Prentice, boss of the motor group, Prentice, which has two Mercedes-Benz dealerships in Northern Ireland, is representing the Mercedes-Benz Dealers Campaign in the court battle.

After the hearing he said: “We welcome the fact the judge recognised the need for a speedy resolution to this case. The 12-month termination notices were issued in December and therefore time is at a premium. We remain confident of victory.”

Mercedes dealers are taking legal action against DaimlerChrysler following its decision to terminate its 159 franchises and set up Mercedes-Benz experience centres in London, Birmingham and Manchester.