A RICHMOND garage is closing down after nearly 30 years service to the local community, forced out by growing competition from larger workshops.

The Richmond Hill Garage, on The Vineyard, has been in business since the 1970s but owner John Costanzo said he is closing down due to financial hardship.

He says the rise in new car sales coupled with growing competition has contributed to a fall in customers for this small garage.

The 45-year-old of Minstead Way, New Malden, feels that it is now time to shut up shop for good. He told the Times: "With the increased overheads, costs and the fact that rates and insurance have gone up, it is no longer financially viable to keep the business going.

"I don't think the government has done much to help small businesses, so it just gets harder to make ends meet."

Mr Costanzo started working at the garage in 1978 and took over the business, after the previous owner died, ten years ago. Over the years he has seen many changes in the motor servicing industry, with four small workshops having closed in his area alone.

The garage has had famous clients, including Bamber Gascoigne and John Stapleton, who have entrusted their vehicles for servicing and repairs over the years. All past customers will be notified about the closure of the garage in due course.

Although John is relieved to be closing down, there are aspects that he will find difficult to leave behind. "I'll miss the locals. It's a bit like a little village atmosphere with people waving and saying hello," he remarked.

"It will be nice to get away from the headaches of chasing the tax man and worrying about the business. I've put a hell of a lot of hours into the business and sometimes I wonder what its all for."

John plans to continue his work with motor vehicles by joining a major roadside recovery team. He says the new job will give him the opportunity to spend more time with his wife and two children. He will also be able to catch up on playing snooker, golf and fishing.