19/05/2017 11:10
Bristol Street Motors Vauxhall Sunderland has said farewell to one of its most experienced and valued colleagues.
Before entering the motor retail industry 38 years ago, outgoing Car Sales Manager, John Watchman, played guitar in the 1960’s R&B band, Love Affair. Their cover of the Robert Knight hit Everlasting Love saw the group achieve a number one single in the UK music charts in 1967.
John first joined the dealership as a sales executive before his hard work and dedication to the role saw him promoted to undertake managerial positions at the Hylton Riverside dealership.
The 65-year-old is looking forward to spending more time with his four grandchildren and two great grandchildren, and relaxing in the sun with his wife, Alma, at their Spanish holiday home.
Jass Singh, general manager at Bristol Street Motors Vauxhall Sunderland, presented John with a plaque commemorating his time with the dealership.
Jass said: “John’s presence around the dealership will be greatly missed. He has a wealth of experience and that shines through in the way he deals with customers and colleagues. Nothing is ever too much trouble and he is always prepared to lend a helping hand or answer any questions.
“I wish John all the best and hope he enjoys having more free time to spend with his wife, grandchildren, great grandchildren and his guitars. I hope that when he’s not enjoying the sun over in Spain, he will occasionally pop into the dealership to have a quick catch up.”
John Watchman said: “I’ve had a wonderful 38 years with Bristol Street Motors Vauxhall Sunderland. Bristol Street Motors is one off, if not the best in the motor retail industry and I’ve loved working for them.
“Even though our CEO Robert Forrester has more than 120 dealerships to deal with, he took time out of his schedule to come see me and thank me for my time with the company. There aren’t many people at the top of big companies who would do that and it typifies the personal approach that makes Bristol Street Motors so successful and such a great place to work.
“Now that I’m retired, I’ll spend more of my evenings playing guitar with my friends in local bands. I’m also looking forward to spending a lot more time at my second home in Spain and helping my children and grandchildren out with their young ones.”