A much-loved couple are having a well-earned brake after handing over the keys of their Rake garage.

Peter and Lorraine Boxall have been a driving force in the village since taking over Citroen Care Limited in 1990.

Peter started out by providing home visits on driveways before opening the first workshop at Adhurst Farm. There were some tough times early on with break-ins and thefts but Peter built up a strong and loyal customer base to motor through.

A move to Rake Business Park followed with wife Lorraine getting on board, giving Peter time to focus on the workshop and manage his small team of mechanics. The couple juggled being young parents along with running the garage, leading to expansion and the opening of its MOT test station.

Peter often works six days a week and while all-nighters are few, he can often be found burning the midnight oil late into the evening. Lorraine is no different and often supports the firm’s older customers by making calls to GP surgeries, pharmacies and electric firms.

The couple – who also still look after the vehicle of their first ever customer from 1990 – are looking forward to retirement and spending more time with their four granddaughters.

They’re also preparing to hit the road in their motorhome, with long-serving mechanics Matt and Adam taking over.