Family-run Renault dealer Gravells has expanded its portfolio with the launch of a new £3 million dealership in Kidwelly, Wales.

The new site boasts an eight-car showroom, 18-bay workshop and exterior space for more than 200 vehicles, and adds to Gravells’ existing sites in Narbeth and Swansea.

Top Welsh stars including X Factor star Rhydian Roberts and BBC news anchorman Huw Edwards joined more than 100 guests at the official opening.

Edwards, a close friend of the family, praised the achievements of the Gravell family including their extensive work in the local community such as their sponsorship of the Scarlets Rugby Club.

The Gravells' business was started by the late Tom Gravell when he borrowed £15 to buy a second-hand lorry. It is now in its 78th year with a turnover of around £50 million a year and remains the oldest Renault dealership in the UK having been awarded the franchise in 1954.

Jonathan Gravell, managing director of Gravells, said: “We’re delighted to officially open our new dealership which is our third new site in the past 18 months. The modern dealership is a fantastic environment in which to showcase some of the latest Renault models such as the new Wind Roadster, as well as for motorists to bring their car in for servicing in one of 18 fully equipped bays.

“Despite these tough trading times we’ve still been able to grow our business and instead of being forced to cut jobs, we’ve actually increased our workforce by about 40 people since opening our sites in Swansea, Narberth and of course Kidwelly. It’s also pretty remarkable to think that our flagship site remains in a town with a population of just 3,000.”