John O'Hanlon has doubled the size of his new dealer venture with the acquisition of Volvo dealer Fawcetts Garage in Newbury.

O'Hanlon was chief executive of Ridgeway until its sale to Marshall, and returned to the industry in 2017 with his purchase of Volvo Cars Reading and the formation of Waylands Automotive.

“We are very excited to have been presented with the opportunity to grow our Volvo brand and to add to our fledgling business in such a short space of time," said O'Hanlon.

"Fawcetts Garage has a long-standing heritage with the brand and an enviable reputation in Newbury which we will continue to build on with the team who all remain with the business.

“This acquisition enables us to develop the Volvo name even further throughout the Berkshire region and we are looking forward to welcoming customers old and new.”

Fawcetts Garage has held the Volvo franchise for 50 years, making it Volvo Car UK’s oldest retailer.

O'Hanlon added: “It is a real honour to be representing the network’s oldest Volvo partner and we are dedicated to continuing the good work the team has achieved in the Newbury area over the years.”

Former owners Roger and Ann Sampson, and managing director Mark Jones - who will continue with the business - alongside his wife and company accountant Susan Jones, are very happy to see the baton entrusted to a highly respected and professional organisation.

Roger Sampson said: “Whilst I’m naturally going to miss the involvement with Fawcetts, I shall continue to watch the business with interest, and wish the staff and customers all good fortune for the future. I’m very confident Fawcetts will thrive and prosper as part of the Waylands Group.”

Jones said: “I’m really excited by the prospect of working alongside John, with Fawcetts now part of an ambitious and expanding motor group. Going forward there will be some great opportunities for our staff, whilst the same familiar faces will look after the needs of our loyal customers.”