Concern over jobs

More than 100 employees at four car dealerships in Guernsey are facing uncertainty after business at the dealerships was suspended last weekend.

The dealerships - St Martins, St Andrews, Ruette Braye and Landes du Marche - are all owned by Five Oaks.

The vehicles from all four businesses have been repossessed and some have been shipped off the island. The dealerships' futures could now be dependent on a possible takeover.

The president of the Guernsey Motor Traders Association, Dave Beausire, said Five Oaks should issue a statement about the situation and what will happen to staff.

Consumers worried

Mr Beausire said that some employees had been told not to turn up for work.

Five Oaks is in negotiation with Jersey businessman Tom Scott about a possible takeover. If it is successful, it is believed that the garages may be reopened.

The Guernsey Consumer Group has been inundated with calls from customers who are concerned about the future.

Chairman Peter Wilson said there are a lot of uncertainties.

"People who have bought cars are wondering where they're going to get them serviced and if warranties will be honoured," he said.

He added that some customers who had put down deposits but have not yet collected their cars were concerned about what would happen to their money.