FORMER British Lions legend John Bentley will be special guest of honour at the launch of a new business in Kirklees.
The ex-player, who hails from Dewsbury, will be in the town on Friday to open a new branch for HGV Direct.
The 3pm launch of the branch at Leeds Hall Road will be followed by a customer open day, which will include a barbecue and a charity draw as well as special launch-day offers.
Prizes in the charity draw include a games console and all proceeds will go to the Wooden Spoon charity, which aims to improve the lives of disadvantaged children and young people in Britain and Ireland.
HGV Direct, which provides parts and spares for leading makes of trucks, has invested more than £30,000 to refurbish the premises – installing a dedicated service desk and creating extensive storage area as well as fitting new outdoor lighting and signs.
The company already runs six branches across the Midlands and north-west as well as e-commerce site. Customers include fleet and owner operators, independent and franchised commercial vehicle garages, distributors and owner drivers.
Its product range encompasses everything from truck and trailer hardware, electrical and lighting products to oils and lubricants, exhausts and aircon parts, tools and in-cab equipment.
Nurul Haque, who has more than 20 years experience in the industry, has been appointed as branch manager together with two further members of staff.
HGV Direct managing director Simon Smedley said: “After two months of hard work, I’m delighted that we will be welcoming customers to our new Dewsbury branch – and would like to take this opportunity to thank John Bentley for taking time out from his busy schedule to conduct the official opening ceremony.”
