A FAMILY firm destroyed by fire in February is nearly fully operational. Nine workers escaped uninjured after a huge fire broke out in a workshop at Tackwood Services. Firefighters from St Neots, Huntingdon, Sawtry, Kimbolton and Gamlingay were sent to

A FAMILY firm destroyed by fire in February is nearly fully operational.

Nine workers escaped uninjured after a huge fire broke out in a workshop at Tackwood Services.

Firefighters from St Neots, Huntingdon, Sawtry, Kimbolton and Gamlingay were sent to Little End Road Industrial Estate in Foundry Way, Eaton Socon on the afternoon of February 27.

All that remained of the vehicle workshop was a burned-out shell.

People had to cut through a fence to escape the blaze and firemen were knocked to the ground by an exploding gas cylinder.

Dionne Barker, who runs Tackwood Services with her brother, Sean Woodward said:

"We all had to stand and watch while out livelihood burnt to the ground not to mention our family history.

"Our parents established the business back in 1971 and built this unit in 1987. We were all left shocked and devastated when it was destroyed."

The fire was caused accidentally during a routine car repair process. The company is now gearing up to return to the workshop.

Mrs Barker, 35, of Eaton Ford said: "I want people to know that we are a couple of weeks away from opening this depot again. Although it's been a very busy, sometimes fraught and stressful time, the finishing line is near.

"The hard work of staff, family and friends has helped us get through this. Whilst we have continued to trade successfully from other units we will be pleased to get back to our original site where we will be bigger and better than ever before."

"We have invested heavily in the workshop to ensure we have a pristine, purpose built unit with state-of-the-art-equipment. Now we can see the light at the end of the tunnel we are so excited about the future."

She added: "Our goal is to be the locals first choice for all their motoring needs. We will have a new building, new facilities but the same old values ... high quality repair and servicing at competitive rates with a dedication to costumer service."

To celebrate the company's imminent move, it will be launching a free MOT reminder service for any customer who registers, along with the chance every month to win a free MOT. The company is also planning an open day and further special relaunch offers will be running throughout the year.

Keep an eye out in The Hunts Post for details of visit www.tackwood.co.uk