During World War II, Mr Ronald Gould was an engineer instructor in the RAF, teaching others how to repair and maintain Spitfire Merlin engines.

In approximately 1946, Ron and his new wife, Vera, bought a bicycle repair business in Fosseway, Norton Hill, Midsomer Norton.

The development plans quickly moved forward with some new car sales showrooms being built with a repair garage at the rear, and a new contract with Cleveland petrol as a fuel forecourt.

The business quickly grew, as many locals knew that Ron could fix a broken-down vehicle in a short time. At that time, he could tune a car engine ‘by ear’, knowing how the sound the motor should make, and he was always spot-on!

As time went on, a number of well-qualified motor engineers were employed, providing a quality service. The Garage became an agent for ‘Roots Group’ cars selling Humber, Hilmans, Commers, Singer and other second-hand cars. A body repair shop was set up, along with service bays.

Around 1959, Ron and Vera bought some land opposite the butchers on Fosseway, Westfield and constructed a petrol filling station, serving the motorists of Westfield and Radstock, usually manned by Vera.

Around 1970 Ron sold the business, and moved to Falmouth, Cornwall, to enter into other business ventures.

After Vera sadly passed away following a very long illness, Ron returned to his beloved West Country at the age of 93.

Ron now lives in supported living accommodation in Westbury and will still be well known by the older generation of the Norton Radstock area where he was also a member of the Masons.