Employees and former staff at Bristol Street Motors Stoke marked a colleague's 50th anniversary with the business.

Colin Yates (pictured centre) began his career at the the Stafford dealership in Jult 1974 as a mechanic's apprentice at the age of 15. He later qualified as a mechanic and spent many years in this role, his repsonsibilities including gas conversions for the Stafford Ambulance Service.

He moved to the position of vehicle progressor, ensuring vehicles are prepared for sale within company guidelines, are delivered on time and to the right standard and specification, and maintaining levels of cutsomer service.

Yates progressed to managing a team of 10 drivers delivering all over the country before returning to the role of vehicle progressor and driver based at Bristol Street Motors business centre at Trentham Lakes, working across dealerships in Stoke, Stafford and Crewe.

He recently won Driver of the Year in the Vertu Motors Masters Club awards.

Colleagues, customers and guests enjoyed cake and a buffet as they marked his 50th anniversary.

Darren Murray (pictured left), general manager at Bristol Street Motors Ford Stoke, said: "Colin embodies the company's key values of passion, respect, professionalism, integrity and commitment.

"He is a popular and valued colleague and everyone was delighted to share in his big day."

Yates said: "I have seen many changes over the last 50 years but have always enjoyed my role, have worked with some fantastic people and met many satisfied cutomers.

"I very much appreciate te good wishes of everyone who came along to help me celebrate; I hope whey will be there to commemorate the next 50 years!"

Yates is married to Sue and they have three children and three grandchildren. when not working, he enjoys gardening, eating out and spending time with his family.