Chris Ritchie began life in the trade when he was 16, and now owns and operates Chris Ritchie Garage Services Ltd located on Ashburner Way, Barrow.

OWNER: Chris Ritchie is celebrating over three decades in the trade

2021 marked the garage being open for 19 years, and Chris is also celebrating 35 years overall as a mechanic and vehicle serviceman.

After more than three decades in the business, Chris has seen dramatic changes including technological advancements, new systems replace old systems and new skills to learn.

He said: "35 years in this trade, I can honestly say it's been interesting.

"I began when I was 16 after I had just left school.

"This isn't like most other industries because there has been a heck of a lot of changes to cope with.

"The biggest change to come along was the electronic age that really changed the way we do things.

"Advances in technology have changed the game as well so it's a bit hectic to keep on top of it all as the years go by.

"When I began in this trade, we were dealing with things like mark one and mark two escorts, but now we're dealing with entirely new systems.

"It's all changed vastly speaking.

GARAGE: Chris Ritchie Garage Services Ltd is located on Ashburner Way in Barrow

"For the last 19 years I've been in the garage and it's been a bit difficult at times, much like everything else.

"Covid has caused some challenges. The main problem has been the huge foot fall with customers and the loss of trade, but we're still busy. Even in the pandemic people will always need these services.

"I've done all sorts including seven years of Ambulance callout and emergency repair work, fixing customers cars, and preparing new cars that have been sold.

"My new business is called Ultimate Auto Locksmith which has really taken off.

"Having now shifted my skills into vehicle locksmith work; supplying and cutting keys, I have pushed my businesses in so many different directions with the diversity and hopefully future foresight to be able to deal with anything that our customers request.

"For anyone wanting to get into this line of work I can just say it's hard work, and you need to be prepared for it.

"It can be difficult but we're surviving and that's all you can do really.

"It's not an easy trade to get along with but it's what I do and I enjoy it."

"Just be ready to put in the hard work every day and to keep on your toes for new changes and challenges that will come along."