A long-standing family-run garage in Onchan will close its doors next month after more than half a century of service.
Minay’s Garage, founded in 1972 by Haydn and Marion Minay, will cease trading on 30th April. Owners Nige and Kev Minay say the decision has been taken after “a great deal of thought” and with regret.
The business was established after Haydn left E.B. Christians, where he had been workshop foreman.
The family rented the original garage from the late Roy Stowell, who later offered them the chance to buy it with flexible payment terms. They were also assisted by the late Bert Corkill of Corkill’s Garage.
A new, larger garage was built alongside the original in 1987.
In a statement, the owners said: “The garage has been a massive part of our lives having to come here as children during school holidays and weekends etc. but great memories of a happy childhood for both of us.”
The business has also operated a vehicle recovery service for the police, AA, RAC, insurance companies and other garages.
Rising costs and the fact that their children do not wish to take on the business were cited as factors.
They added: “We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all our loyal customers, some of whom are now into their third generation, as well as to all our staff, past and present, who have supported us over the last 54 years.”
The garage will complete all scheduled work throughout April but is not booking in any further jobs.