Car service to close after 30 years, boss says

The director of a car driving service has said the decision to close the company after 30 years is one of the "most difficult" he has ever had to make.

Steve Glendinning announced on Saturday that Home James Guernsey Car Return Service would cease trading on 19 July.

The company built its reputation as a chauffeuring service for people going to and from nights out, family celebrations, weddings, and work events.

But Glendinning has now revealed the strain of keeping the business afloat amid rising costs and struggles to recruit and retain drivers had "taken its toll" on his health.

Glendinning joined the company as a driver in 2013, before being promoted to director in 2016.

"This has been one of the most difficult decisions I have ever had to make," he said in a statement to the BBC.

"Many people see Home James as a business, but for me it has always been much more than that."

But he said "the removal of the island knowledge test changed that pathway and significantly reduced" the company's ability to attract new drivers.

"On a personal level, the strain of trying to keep the business afloat has taken its toll.

"My health has suffered both mentally and physically and I have reached a point where I need to focus on my own wellbeing and create a more sustainable future for myself."

Glendinning said after the closure of Home James he would be joining Premier Cars, a similar luxury car driving service.

"After careful consideration, I believe this is the right decision for both the business and my own future.

"Finally, I would like to thank the people of Guernsey for their support over the last three decades.

"It has been an honour to serve the island, and I will always be proud of what Home James achieved."

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