A CAR dealership has clocked up 50 years of trading – with its first employee still part of the team.

Horizon Honda Poole was founded in March 1971 by chairman Colin Sharpe and now has 10 branches across the South West, employing more than 230 people.

Its first employee was Simon Rickard, who began as a car cleaner, salesman and doing any other role that needed doing.

He worked his way up the ranks to become a director and is now group buyer.

He said: “I can’t quite believe that it was 50 years ago since I began working at Horizon Honda Poole. The time has really flown by.

“I have witnessed many changes during that time, and have seen some really iconic cars from Honda, The NSX, S2000, CRV to name a few. I think the biggest change I’ve seen is the incredible advancements in technology, particularly with the growing demand for electric and hybrid vehicles in recent years. It’s been very satisfying to work within a company that is very rooted in the local community, and I look forward to continuing to work for Horizon Honda. I’ve no plans to retire anytime soon.”

Tony Roberts, chief executive of the Horizon-Magna group, said: “I’ve been working here for 34 years and it has been a pleasure to see how Horizon Honda Poole has grown from one sole dealership to 10 – and a Top 150 Motor Group in the UK.”

The dealership has made significant donations to a host of charities, particularly around Christmas. As part of its 12 Days of Christmas initiative, it donated hampers to underprivileged families, as well as to those with multiple learning difficulties and complex medical needs through Diverse Abilities.

It has also partnered with care homes in Poole and Christchurch to provide gifts to residents who usually would not receive any, as well as making contributions to refuges and charities to ensure the elderly, victims of domestic abuse and those experiencing homelessness are able to enjoy a Christmas dinner.

Mr Roberts added: “We are proud to be working with the community to support those who might not be as fortunate, particularly during the uncertainty we’ve all faced this year. We understand that we wouldn’t be hitting this amazing milestone without the continued support of our thousands of loyal customers. Their trust and custom is something we have never taken for granted and we hope to continue being a part of this community for another 50 years to come.”

Plans to celebrate the anniversary have been postponed until later in the year because of the Covid crisis.

Horizon Honda Poole will reopen on Monday, April 12, in line with government Covid guidance. As well as hygiene and social distancing measures, it has ensured all used cars have had an air conditioning “purge” to protect customers.