AFTER almost 50 years in business, Chick’s Motors and Marine will cease trading on Thursday. The decision to close what many regard as an institution followed the death of its founder, John ‘Chick’ Robilliard, in January.

But the business will continue under different guises.

Two employees, Gerry Pols and Karen Vaudin, are keeping the name alive by opening Chick’s 2007, a tool and service centre at Dyson’s Quarry off the Bridge. It will focus on the marine side of the business.

Motorbike mechanic Jamie ‘Tomo’ Thompson is soon to continue that side of the business at a site to be confirmed. The 26-year-old has been with the company for 12 years.

Mrs Vaudin, 48, said Chick’s was closing as the heirs did not want to keep it going.

‘While going our separate ways, we will still keep in close working contact and retain the high standard of service that our customers have come to appreciate over the past 48 years with Chick,’ she said.

On Thursday, the staff will be joined by Chick’s widow, Gill, and daughter Alison in holding a farewell get-together at the Collings Road showroom.

All clients and customers are invited to attend from midday.

Mrs Vaudin, who joined as secretary eight years ago, said the closure was the end of an era.

‘Pretty much everyone in the motorcycle business started off here.’

Chick’s 2007 has the franchises

for Northern Tools and SIP Equipment.

‘It is our intention to expand and promote both ranges while still offering the boating fraternity a repair and service facility,’ said Mrs Vaudin.

Mr Pols has been in the engineering field for 36 years.