Rt Hon David Evennett, MP for Bexleyheath and Crayford, visited the SMaRT Garage in Crayford on Friday morning to catch up with the team and learn about their recent expansion.

The garage is operated by First Step Trust, and offers provides MOT testing, vehicle repair and servicing. It is a social enterprise, which also provides training and employment opportunities for disadvantaged people to support them back into work. As well as this branch on the Acron Industrial Estate in Crayford, they also have garages in West Norwood, Woolwich and Salford.

Mr Evennett met with Ronnie Wilson MBE, the Chief Executive, and members of staff working in both the garage and administration team during his tour of the premises. He also heard about forthcoming events, plans to promote the charity more widely and proposals to start a new driving academy.

Mr Evennett commented “I was pleased to meet the SMaRT Garage team again and learn about their expansion into Crayford. They provide real benefits to those who are having trouble getting back into work and the local communities that they serve. Everyone I met was enthusiastic about the jobs they were doing and optimistic for the future. Innovative schemes such as this are making a difference to people’s lives.”