Academy Awards

THE Academy Group, based in Whitefield and Rishton, has been named “Garage of The Year 2009” in last night’s Motor Trader award ceremony, held at the prestigious Grosvenor House Hotel in London.

The awards, deemed the Oscars of the motor industry, are now in their 19th year and acknowledge and reward the best performers in the motor industry. Academy was rubbing shoulders with some of the biggest companies on the motoring map.

Academy, having been shortlisted in previous years, scooped the prestigious award amid tough competition from some of the UK’s best independent garages.

Academy MD, Jason Mawdsley, who accepted the award last night, was delighted with the outcome.

“To be shortlisted in this category is a real achievement, but to have won the award is absolutely fantastic. The whole Academy team have worked incredibly hard over the last 12 months, in what have been difficult times for the industry. This award is testament to the dedication, skill and attention to detail the team bring on a daily basis,” said Jason.

“We have been close in the past and have made the shortlist but never quite lifted this honour until now.

The judges were looking at companies as well as individuals who have excelled despite the toughest trading environment the motor industry has lived through for generations. Our team has certainly done that and thoroughly deserve this recognition.”

The Academy Group was established 14 years ago and offers vehicle sales, service, maintenance and accident repair to both private motorists and company car drivers.