A businessman who saw his car repairs shop devastated by a huge fire today revealed how he has battled to reopen part of it.

More than 20 firefighters tackled the blaze at Charfleets Tyre Service, Charfleets Industrial Estate, Canvey, just before Christmas.

Back in business - Andy Brooks gets to work Picture: ROBIN WOOSEY

Andy Brooks, who owns the repair shop, said he had been determined to open his business again as soon as possible and has set up a small MOT workshop.

This temporary workshop stands to the rear of the remains of the two-storey building that was gutted by the fire which is believed to have been caused by smouldering welding equipment.

Mr Brooks, 37, said: "We have had some tools delivered this week to enable us to undertake repairs on vehicles that have had an MOT done.

"We still can't do big jobs but I want people to know that we are now open for MOT testing."

Mr Brooks is waiting for his insurance company to make a final assessment of the damage to the building so he will know how long it will take to fully reopen.

Published Friday, January 10, 2003

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