Hayes bodyshop has two finalists in national competition

Local motorists in need of repairs to their vehicles can be assured that their cars are
officially in good hands.

Two employees from Solus Hayes have reached the finals
for Painter and Young Painter of the Year at the prestigious Bodyshop Magazine
Industry Event Awards ceremony.

Martin Byfield is a finalist in the Painter category, and Zak McLaughlan is a finalist for
Young Painter of the Year.

Vehicle painting demands a huge amount of skill and, as a discipline, it requires a
thorough understanding of the latest technology and careful attention to detail.

Customer satisfaction is vital and the quality of work in the bodyshop makes a huge
difference to a bodyshop's success, Martin and Zak are valuable assets to Solus
Hayes.

As part of the competition process, Martin and Zak, along with five other semi-finalists
in each category were required to take part in a tough assessment at the
Motor Insurance Industry Research Institute at Thatcham to prove they could do their
job accurately and under pressure. Technicians also underwent ATA (Automotive
Technician Accreditation) testing, which enables them to receive ATA accreditation if
the pass.

"I'm really pleased to be here," said Martin, "it's going to be a good day!" Zak was
also enthusiastic about the competition, and said, "You have to do your best and feel
proud to be here."

The finalists have been invited to a glittering black tie event in September for a Gala
Awards Dinner, where the winner will be announced.