A GARAGE that has been owned and worked in by three generations of the same family is celebrating it’s 50th anniversary this week.

Roy Walkden, 77, took over Brookdale garage in Ellesmere Port on August 18, 1972 with the help of his dad Reg Walkden.

Ian Walkden, 45, who is Roy’s son, has also been working at the garage for 30 years and co-owns the garage with his dad.

Brookdale is a small, independent garage that provides a number of services to vehicles.

Ian and his wife Mary Walkden, 43, who runs the admin side of the company, have two sons Matthew (14) and Dan (13) who are also helping in the garage over their summer holidays.

Speaking to the Globe, Mary said: “We have lots of existing customers, some who have been with us from the very beginning so that is really nice.”

The family will be celebrating the 50th anniversary of Brookdale by hosting an afternoon party on Saturday.

Mary added: “We have sent out around 500 invites to all of our customers old and new.

“The party is to toast the anniversary because it is a big achievement. With Roy working with his father and now his son and our children, it’s a right family affair.

“It’s nice to say thank you and celebrate with a drink and some cake.”

Roy told the Globe: “50 years of honest family values and experienced workmanship. It is a small garage with a big heart.”