Bachelor, who joins the team as Customer Service Administrator, has been working in the automotive industry for the last six years.  His previous experience has included time at Krupp Hoesch and Halfords, as well as most recently, Klarius Quinton Hazell, where he held a combined customer services and sales role.

Kerry Nickson is new to the automotive industry.  Her previous experience has been at big name companies such as AXA.

Returning to the fold at the SMMT is PR man Keith Lewis. Lewis was originally at the new car body in various guises until he moved to Zurich Insurance some six years ago. He has now returned as the Head of Communications.

Alec Morgan, Country Manager of Banner Batteries is set to retire after many years in the trade. Meanwhile, the company has announced the appointment of Paul Matarewicz as his successor. It is planned that Morgan will keep his toe in with Banner by taking responsibility for certain major accounts and special projects.

Another person achieving long service this month is Schaeffler Aftermarket Territory Manager Bob Carter, who is set to celebrate 50 years working in the automotive industry.

Bob, who represents the company's LuK clutch, INA tensioner and FAG wheel bearings brands in the North East of England and Scotland, reaches the milestone in September - a month after his 65th birthday.

Finally, it is with sadness we report the passing of Past President of Derek Rogers, a former president of the Motor Factors Association. He was well known and well liked in the trade, being MD for many years of MBD - the battery distributors based in Northamptonshire.