RAISING standards in car servicing and repair is an important aspect of the industry for a family-run Toyota specialist in Penrith.

Staff at Jim Walton Ltd, on the Gilwilly Industrial Estate, say they are committed to making sure customers get the best service and value for money.

But one technician has taken this a step further by taking part in a national voluntary accreditation scheme designed to raise standards in servicing and repair.

Gavin Slack has passed a series of practical and knowledge tests and signed a code of conduct to achieve Automotive Technician Accreditation to help raise the professional status of those in the industry and to provide customers with peace of mind.

To maintain accreditation, Mr Slack, who has been issued with a photo-ID card and listed on an On-line register, will be reassessed every five years.

A spokesman for Jim Walton Ltd said: "We are proud to be involved in this new nationwide initiative which will show our customers the importance of having skilled professionals.

"Vehicles are becoming increasingly sophisticated and complex so it's vital that there is a recognised benchmark of technical competence."