DOZENS of people marked the end of an era in Dursley last week. 

Dursley Garage closed its doors for the last time on Friday, July 28 marking the occasion with a farewell party. 

Owner Howard Steele, who recently turned 80, is retiring after an incredible 65 years of service.

Howard's involvement with the garage first began as a car-mad 15-year-old working evenings and weekends before he left Dursley Secondary Modern School.

Howard’s wife Liz said asked the Gazette to write an article about Howard's retirement because he "would never blow his blow his own trumpet". 

She said: “The afternoon really went well, turning what could have been a sad occasion into a celebration. 

“We think that over 60 people came to say farewell, bringing cards, gifts and food, and it turned into a really social get-together. 

“There was lots of horn peeping and waving as vehicles went by too.”

READ MORE: Farewell to mechanic retiring after 65 years 

Gazette Series: Howard Steele with colleagues Kevin Pankhurst and Simon Thomas at Dursley Garage Howard Steele with colleagues Kevin Pankhurst and Simon Thomas at Dursley Garage (Image: The Steele family)

Gazette Series: The farewell party at Dursley Garage The farewell party at Dursley Garage (Image: The Steele family)