AGAINST all the odds the owners of an Evesham garage have been celebrating the expansion of their business.

Avonside Motors in Abbey Road, Evesham, was not unscathed by the closure of the town's bridge and saw a drop in custom.

But owners Ali and Vanessa Adlkish are optimistic and have taken a chance on expanding the business.

The entrance area, formally home to Tiles Naturally, which had to relocate after losing business during the Abbey Bridge closure, is set to become a large new waiting area for customers.

And Mr Adlkish said they will be offering a range of new specialist tyres at the garage.

"We have to stay positive," said Mr Adlkish, who didn't lay off any staff during the closure but lost all his passing trade.

"We will also be expanding our tyre sales as well. People will be able to sit and wait while they are having their tyres changed."

Mrs Adlkish added: "We are trying to attract more customers and we have to go forward. We want to make it more comfortable for people while they are waiting."

The garage will also be opening over the weekends soon due to a rise again in demand since the re-opening of the bridge.

Mr Adlkish added: "We will also be able to employ two new members of staff and by the end of the summer an extra three people."