A GRIMSBY garage is in danger of closing after thieves stole £40,000 of equipment in a raid.
The specialist equipment and a car were plundered from Tony's Autos, in Armstrong Street, in January.
Despite members of the public offering their help after the story appeared in the Grimsby Telegraph, owner Tony Booth has now decided to hang up his spanners for good after insurance pay-outs failed to replace the equipment.
Although there is a potential
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1 lifeline for loyal customers, as one dedicated member of staff is hoping to take over the running of the garage – if a buyer for the site is found.
Mr Booth, 60, of Strand Street, said: "Up until three years ago I really enjoyed work, but since then it's got harder and harder.
"The break-in was the final straw for me because it left us out of pocket and without a lot of the equipment we needed.
"We've tired to muster along, but we've had to turn jobs away because we just don't have to items we need to carry out the repairs.
"It's got to the point where I don't enjoy coming to work anymore so I've decided it's time to move on."
Mr Booth, who set up the garage 20 years ago with the help of wife Linda is in talks with a potential buyer.
And Marc Cain, who has worked at the garage for 15 years, hopes to lease it from the new owner if the deal goes ahead.
Mechanic and MoT tester Marc, 36, of Grimsby, said: "I was gutted when Tony told me he was leaving. I feel like the thieves have defeated him in a way and that's a shame.
"It's the end of an era, but I'm hoping it can be a new start and a new opportunity for me.
"I'm hoping I will be able to rent the premises from the new owner so that it can continue.
"I've had offers of work elsewhere, but this place is a huge part of my life and I would hate to see it close."
Tony's Autos currently employs three staff, including Mr Booth's son, and is likely to be bought out in the new year.
His daughter and another son have also worked for the firm in the past.
Mr Booth, who plans to dedicate his extra time to his fishing ponds at Bradley and Scunthorpe, added: "I would like to thank all of the customers and staff who have been so loyal over the years.
"I hope a buyer can be found and they will take on our employees so they have jobs to come back to in the new year."
• Comment: Raid was nail in the coffin
