KEIGHLEY-based Colin Appleyard Cars has enjoyed a record-breaking year.

The company last year sold an unprecedented 1,750 new cars and increased its market share of Suzuki sales to over 4.5 per cent.

In recognition of its achievement, the firm has received the coveted Suzuki Dealer of the Year award, for the third time in seven years.

The accolade was presented to managing director Robin Appleyard at the Suzuki conference and awards dinner, in Tenerife.

Also present were Appleyard's finance director Tony Dodsworth and Peggy Appleyard, who was given the honour of sitting at a top table.

It is the seventh time in its history that the company has earned the top award.

Tribute is paid by Suzuki UK sales director, Dale Wyatt.

"Once again Colin Appleyard Cars is Suzuki's top performing dealership," he said.

"They were up against some stiff competition from over 160 dealers across the UK, so it is a great achievement.

"But this award is not just about volume sales. Many other factors are taken into consideration, including customer satisfaction, not just at point of sale but also in after-sales service.

"The win highlights the professionalism and commitment of Colin Appleyard's staff."

Mr Appleyard said the firm was delighted to once again pick-up the honour.

"To win this award so regularly is a fantastic achievement and reflects the dedication and hard work of all our staff," he added.

"Looking ahead, Suzuki has a number of exciting new models due out this year.

"We are confident 2017 will be another great year."

Colin Appleyard Cars was Suzuki's first official car dealership in the UK.

The firm now has showrooms in Keighley, Huddersfield, Ashton-under-Lyne and Shipley.

It has recently been treating deserving customers, as part of a scheme in collaboration with Suzuki Cars UK and Suzuki Saturdays with Ant & Dec.

Among the recipients was Keighley woman Jennifer Greenwood, who was presented with a voucher for afternoon tea at the Holdsworth House Hotel in Halifax.

"What a treat!" said Jennifer, who as well as having to deal with health issues, was involved in an accident in her new Suzuki Swift.