A mechanic is offering to fix cars of key workers at cost price to ensure they can get to work safely.
Karl Jones is the owner of Motortime Ltd, in Newcastle, which opened for business this January.
But due to the Covid-19 pandemic, work is going to be a little different for the garage.
Reluctant to close so soon, Karl has opened his shutters for essential key workers only, and will be carrying out vital repairs such as punctures and brake failures, to ensure they can continue to do their job.
The 40-year-old, from Newcastle, said: “We want to make sure that the people who need their cars are on the road so that they can do their jobs.
“Most of my family have worked in the key workers sector in the NHS, so I want to give back to the people helping the country.
“We aren’t doing everyday repairs, or anything that can wait. People aren’t meant to be going to work, so they don't need their cars.
“Anyone working in the key workers' sector, from NHS to supermarket staff, can make appointments for urgent repairs - but will need to show ID.”
Customers will be required to drop off and pick their car up for the appointment, to avoid gatherings at the garage.
Karl, and his colleague Matt Jones, will be repairing as many cars as possible for the price of the parts - so long as they are available.
Karl added: “A lot of people are bored and think they can get odd jobs done because they have the time, but we just want to make sure that those helping the vulnerable are able to do their jobs.
“We would happily stay at home, but want to make sure that people that need to get about can.
“If we can get the parts, we will do it. We usually charge £35 an hour for labour, but are waiving the labour costs for key workers.
“If they close the part places then we won't be able to do it anymore, but will do as many as they can before it comes to that.
“This isn’t about making a profit, but it gives us something to do and helps us to get people on the roads.”
To book, call 07740167152.
