An award-winning Herefordshire garage is helping customers in times of uncertain, rising costs.

Oldfields Garage in Leominster, which was founded in 1991,  has introduced a new initiative, which allows loyal customers to split the costs of maintaining their vehicle.

It comes as drivers prepare for increases in vehicle excise duty, following changes announced in the Autumn Budget.

From April 2025, drivers of new petrol, diesel and hybrid vehicles are set to face higher first-year tax rates.

From April 2025, car tax for petrol cars, diesel and most hybrids that emit between 1-50g/km of CO2 will soar ten times over for the first year of ownership, reaching £110.

Tim Benson, managing director at the garage said: “With household budgets under strain in recent years due to high inflation, increased mortgage costs and spiralling energy bills, drivers will be looking to maximise the value they get from their garages.”

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The family-run business will be offering flexible monthly payments to existing customers, to spread the cost of servicing and repairs while enjoying a range of "exclusive" benefits.

Some of the benefits included customers being able to make priority bookings with early reminders for upcoming MOTs and routine servicing, allowing them to plan and avoid last-minute rushes.

The flexible payment offering is based on a 12-month plan with fixed monthly payments, allowing customers to lock in today’s prices for the entire year.

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“Customers can now spread the cost of upkeep over a 12-month plan with a fixed monthly budget at today’s prices, ensuring financial predictability, by joining #ClubOldfields," Mr Benson added.

“Unlike traditional service plans, with #ClubOldfields you can use your balance not only for regular servicing but also for any emergency repairs for your car or van should they arise unexpectedly.

“We understand the challenges of vehicle maintenance and want to provide a solution that makes it more manageable and rewarding. It’s our way of saying thank you to our loyal customers.”

In September, the business was named the Best Small Garage in the 2024 British Independent Garage of the Year Awards.