Keighley motor dealer Colin Appleyard has celebrated a milestone.

The company opened its first Suzuki car showroom in the town 35 years ago last Saturday. It was the Japanese manufacturer’s first UK car franchise and the official opening was performed by the then sales director of Suzuki Cars, Maurice Knight.

Eight new cars were delivered specially for the occasion and all were sold on the night.

The company is Suzuki’s top-performing dealership and also now has branches in Huddersfield, Ashton-under-Lyne and Shipley.

Last year it sold a record 1,600-plus Suzuki cars and 4x4s.

And Colin Appleyard himself, who was awarded the MBE in the 2013 New Year Honours List, is still heavily involved.

“Whilst he has handed over the day-to-day responsibility to his son Robin – who is now managing director – he is still very much involved in running the business,” said a spokesman.

“The father and son partnership is supported by an ambitious young board of directors, all of whom have been promoted from within the company.

“Colin is confident the company is in good hands and can look forward to another 35 years of success.”