We started out in 1952s as Slade & Sons as can be seen in these old photographs and we have a rich history rooted in the local community. Not only have we served Sidmouth and surrounds for more than 70 years, we have also kept up to date with new automative trends complimented by us acquiring other garages over the years.

“The garage on the corner of Salcombe Road, in Sidmouth has been a feature for as long as local people can remember,” The Midweek Herald reported on June 27, 2001 on the occasion of our 50th Anniversary. (see newspaper clip above). Slade & Sons was started by Harry Slade and his son George in the 1950s but according to the news clip above, the building was used for automotive purposes even earlier. It housed a fire engine during WW2 when George was a part time fireman.

The Belcher family bought Slade & Sons in 1994 which was originally an Austin Morris / British Leyland agency. We also acquired Woolbrook Garage, a Ford Authorised Service Centre in 1999 which was moved from Seaton into our Salcombe Road premises.  We have therefore serviced all types of Ford vehicles over the past 25 years. We were also a BP service station at one point as you can see in the photograph.

At one time Slade and Sons was the only garage in Sidmouth.  However, Sidmouth Garage started in 2011, led by Nigel Hillier until August 2024. When Nigel retired, we acquired the business and moved it across the road into our building, retaining both staff and customers. This marks another significant milestone in our ongoing investment in East Devon. See Press Release: Sidmouth sees big gains for motorists through local family’s ongoing investment.

With the acquisition of Sidmouth Garage we took the decision to service all makes and models of vehicles and are no longer a Ford Authorised Service Station. We still have all the necessary expertise and equipment to work on Ford cars as we have done for years. Today, Sidmouth Garage – Slade and Sons Ltd is proud to work on any type of vehicle including bybrids, serving motorists from Sidmouth to Budleigh, Seaton and beyond

With a focus on innovation and tradition, we provide expert care ensuring every vehicle receives the personalised attention it deserves. As our 2001 advert reads… “Remember, we’re the right place for all your motoring needs… everything to keep your vehicle in peak condition… We pride ourselves on being second to none.”

Another two decades on from our 50th Anniversary, we continue striving to maintain our trusted reputation amongst the motorists of East Devon.

Contact us today for your MOT, service, repair or for a full range of tyres.