Chris Kerridge said it had been a tough year, adding that he was pleased the business had been bought by another independent dealership which was looking to reintroduce a franchise. "Mitchells will bring new life to the business," he said. "It's a sad day for us but I know Matthew will do a very good job keeping our loyal customers happy." Mitchells, based in Long Road, Lowestoft, was established before the Second World War and has sold Renaults since 1974. The Renault and Dacia franchise opened a second site in Suffolk Road, Great Yarmouth, 15 years ago and a used car operation in Mill Road, Lowestoft, two years ago. Huke-Jenner said that the new Halesworth site would add a body shop to the group's existing portfolio. He added: "It is far enough from our other sites not to be in a competitive position. We have a lot of customers in this part of the world but there is room for growth."