HALFORDS, the national retailer which is based in Worcestershire, has opened its latest Autocentre on Worcester's Elgar Retail Park.

The city's mayor Cllr Roger Knight officially cut the ribbon in an opening ceremony which brought the Redditch-based company's UK network to 308. The new garage has created new jobs and is to take part in Halford's apprenticeship scheme, which aims to have an apprentice placement in each Autocentre by 2016.

James Dabell, centre manager at Worcester, said: "We have a terrific opportunity in Worcester to build the business by offering Worcester motorists a reputable brand delivering main dealer quality at more affordable prices, something that is resonating strongly in these tough economic times. This investment gives us a fresh, purpose-built space, equipped with the very latest technology and tools to enable us to service all makes and models of cars, old and new. It puts us in the very best position to meet the local demand from motorists looking for a better deal.”

Elgar Park is the second Autocentre for Halfords in Worcester. The first in The Butts is to remain open.