W E Bradford and Sons

You know the situation. You are driving on a fast road (A64) and you suddenly see something you really must photograph. The time is right, the light is right but you are on your way somewhere so say to yourself "I'll do it next time". Of course next time never comes. Today however, I sped on for two miles before turning round and heading back. The time was right, the lighting was right and I was not in a hurry. I know that this location will eventually be re-developed so now was the time to make a set of photographs and capture a slice of local history. So, we are in Sherburn, on the A64, next to the fire station and just before the traffic lights (heading towards Scarborough) The garage of W E Bradford and Sons at Little Dene is now abandoned and derelict and up for sale. It may eventually be demolished and the land used for other purposes. So, I have photographed it for prosperity.

WE Bradford & Sons Ltd was established in 1922 with one workshop. It was one of only two garages on the A64 for many years. The family business developed to include additional workshops and showroom.

As motoring became more popular the sale of petrol and repairs of cycles, motorbikes, cars and agricultural equipment enabled the business to expand. It became an AA accredited garage, offering a 24hrs break down service and recovery services. The other services provided by the garage including recharging of wireless and car batteries, distribution of bottled gas and gas fittings, paraffin for heating and lighting & TVO for tractors.

The garage was seen by many as the hub of village life and the garage traded continuously through the war period up until two years ago when trading formally ceased.