Dave then spoke to a number of other local bodyshops and was made a few job offers, and after meeting Clive Darke decided to join John Darke Ltd 1st November 1995, initially working 50% of his time as a valeter and 50% as a bodyshop technician.

John Darke Ltd had recently invested in a brand new bodyshop building and was recognised in the area for using the latest and best equipment on the market. They also held the Volvo franchise, all of this added together seemed the best option for Dave.

In 1996 Dave achieved Level 4 Volvo repair technician, the very first in the country within the Volvo network, and was recognised nationally.

Having establishing himself as a capable bodyshop technician, one evening over a beer after work, Dave was promoted to Bodyshop Manager, a position he really went on to make his own.

Very few people stay in the same job at the same place for 27 years. And it’s fair to say having had an accident or bump, most customers don’t bring their car to John Darke for repair, they “go and see Dave Dunham”, who they know they can trust to sort things out.

And as a business that’s what we are going to miss, a very loyal employee, who has consistently works to the highest of standards and will step up when it matters to get the job done.

On behalf of John Darke we would like to say thank you for everything over the last 27 years and wish you a very healthy and happy retirement.

Today the team joined Dave with a buffet lunch and presented him with some retirement gifts.