A MOTOR dealership in East Lancashire has been bought out by a national operator in an £8.2million deal.

Gateshead-based Vertu Motors has acquired the Hilldendale Group, including its flagship Land Rover salesroom at Lomeshaye Industrial Estate, near Nelson, and has ambitious proposals for the location.

And for Vertu managing director Robert Forrester, who was born in Blackburn, it is almost like coming home.

Mr Forrester said: “I’m living in the north-east now but it will be good to visit occasionally.”

The motors boss has revealed his company has also bought up a warehouse, close to the existing premises, which will be converted into offices to support the new venture and be home to a new off-site preparation centre.

Before the latest move, Vertu had also added three Land-Rover dealerships in Yorkshire under the Farnell banner, at Leeds Bradford and Guiseley, and the Nelson showroom will now be rebranded under the same moniker.

The deal also includes the group’s Jaguar franchises in Farnworth Road, Bolton.