106 year-old motor group closes its doors

A 106 YEAR-OLD motor business has shut its doors just over six months after its former financial controller was jailed for defrauding the company.

The company directors wrote on the Facebook page of the business that it was with “a heavy heart” that they had decided to close the business.

The statement continued: “This was a very difficult decision to make – however as the motor industry continues to evolve, smaller firms such as Dews continue to struggle to remain competitive.

“As a result the Directors have decided to close the business. The last 106 years would not have been possible without the drive, effort and energy of our staff and customers over the years – and for that we share our thanks.

“We wish our current staff and customers all the very best for the future, and thank you in advance for your understanding.

In July 2015, Andrew Bell, formerly employed as an accountant at Dews Motor Group, Halifax, was sentenced to three years at Bradford Crown Court for fraud by abuse of position.

Bell stole £499,563 from the business over a four year period, and it was reported that he used the money to fund an online gambling addiction.

At the time of his prosecution, Teresa Hughes, senior crown prosecutor, CPS Yorkshire and Humberside said: “Andrew Bell completely abused the position of trust he was given at Dews. He perpetrated a calculated fraud over four years, defrauding this this local fourth generation family business of nearly half a million pounds.

“It is clear that the damage his selfish actions have caused to the business and its employees goes far beyond the money he defrauded from the firm.”