A GARAGE worker has been rewarded for his work after notching up 30 years of loyal service.

Barry Appleby, 45, from New Herrington, near Sunderland, was 17 when he started as an apprentice technician at Jennings Ford's Carrville branch, in Durham.

At 21, he became a qualified technician, and spent the next six years obtaining City and Guilds qualifications at Wearside Technical College.

In 1989, Mr Appleby was promoted to service manager, responsible for a team of 20 staff.

Currently in charge of the service, body shop and rapid fit departments at the garage, which has been owned by several companies, he recently received a loyalty award from Jennings Ford group sales director Nicky Dalkin.

Mr Appleby said he had seen many changes over the years.

He added: "It's great to have your hard work recognised in such a rewarding way."