A LANCASHIRE motor group has appointed a new managing director.

Long-serving director Pauline Turner has stepped into the driving seat at the Chorley Group, which has franchises across the North West.

The group is looking to expand its dealership network in the region as part of an ambitious growth strategy.

Pauline said: “We’ve got lots of exciting plans in the pipeline and I’m looking forward to playing a key role in bringing them to fruition.

“I’ve been involved in the business since day one and the motor trade is in my blood.

“I’m relishing the opportunity to take the company to the next level.”

The move is part of a boardroom restructure which also sees Adam Turner promoted to the role of sales director and outgoing managing director Andy Turner taking up the position of company chairman.

The group, which turned over £113 million in the last financial year, was founded by Mr Turner, in 1989.

He helped to transform the Chorley Group into the biggest volume Nissan dealer in Europe.

Mr Turner said: “We have opportunities to expand our operation in the North West, but to be in a position to make the most of them it’s vital we have a clear succession plan in place.

“Manufacturers such as Nissan are keen to see longevity within the business so bringing younger blood in is vital to our future success.

“After spending 25 years in the role of managing director I’m looking forward to stepping back from the day-to-day running of the business so I can spend more time shaping our future growth strategy .”

The Chorley Group recently announced it was investing £1 million to upgrade facilities at its Blackpool dealership.

Work has started on a new workshop on a one-acre site adjacent to the firm’s site on Amy Johnson Way.

The facility will include four ramps and a Class 7 MOT bay.

The Chorley Group was recently named Family Business of the Year at the Red Rose Awards.