Markerstudy Group today officially completed the acquisition of Tonbridge Coachworks Vehicle Repair Group.

Tonbridge has more than 900 staff and annual revenue in excess of £500m.

The vehicle repair group includes Tonbridge Coachworks, European Automotive Solutions and Canterbury Accident Repair Specialist.

Current owner Vince Scudder said: "I was surprised by the offer from Markerstudy to buy the businesses. They had looked at what we do and how we do it and liked what they saw."

Markerstudy chief executive Kevin Spencer said: "We are hoping not only to secure jobs, but to bring more trade into the area. This is a new chapter in the story of a very successful local business."