Page 82 - IT'S A RUM LIFE BOOK TWO "BOSTON 1960 TO 1970"

Herby looked on the Main Ridge Garage as his own domain
and indeed after a lifetime in the motor trade in the town, he
was known and respected far and wide. He took on the task of
teaching me all he knew about selling cars.

The firm’s financial constraints also resulted in Herby and
myself being constantly niggled by the workshop manager
who resented our using the one and only office. To get his own
back, he repeatedly took over one of our beautifully cleaned
“sale cars” to use as a breakdown vehicle just because “he had
nothing else”!
The workshop Manager and I formed an immediate dislike
for each other. He was what one could call a “clever cove”.
In his credit, he always wore a suit and tie to work and with
light coloured slick “brylcreme” hair, always looked very
smart. This was a distinct advantage to the company in the
position he held as most of the clients he dealt with trusted
him.
At the beginning we did not have new cars at Main Ridge.
The forecourt was used to display the more ordinary second-
hand models we had for sale together with one ancient lorry.
The better cars were in the glass fronted showroom.

“Mot”
In charge of the petrol pumps was “Mot”, a small, round,
cheery little chap. He had a round, clean shaven, “outdoor” face
and thinning grey hair plastered to his scalp.
Mot was a retired engine driver from the days of steam and
a gentleman in the nicest possible way. Always dressed in a
brown smock, he was kindly, well mannered and obliging, his
clients always came first. Mot idolised Herby.
On Mot’s days off I was in charge of the petrol. Mot in his
ever meticulous way constantly reminded me to ensure the
pump readings were taken at the exact same time every day
and never to forget.

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