National Tyres and Autocare - a Halfords company

About this location

A few stories people tell about this place

1. It was just another day at National Tyres and Autocare when a delivery driver pulled up with an unusual package. As he approached the counter, everyone noticed it was wrapped in old tire treads and secured with a rusty lug nut. As he unwrapped it, out popped a small, grinning teddy bear holding a note that read: 'Happy Valentine's Day from your friendly neighborhood mechanic!' Everyone burst into laughter—turns out, one of the mechanics had been secretly dating their neighbor and decided to surprise her with a little joke gift.

2. A delivery driver arrived with a mysterious box one morning. As he walked towards the workshop door, everyone noticed something odd: the box seemed to move slightly on its own. As he opened it, out popped a tiny mechanic in overalls, who cheerfully greeted everyone: 'Good morning! I’m here for my shift today!' Turned out it was an automated robot from their supplier, designed to help with routine tasks. Since then, whenever someone mentions National Tyres, people joke that maybe they’ll get serviced by a miniature colleague next time.

3. One morning, as mechanics were preparing for their shift, an unusual message crackled over the intercom: ‘Attention all staff—your cars are now officially late for work.’ Mechanics looked at each other, confused but amused. One said, 'Guess we're not going anywhere today!' Soon, everyone was pulling out their laptops or grabbing coffee, discussing the oddity over breakfast in the staff room. A delivery driver arrived later that day with a box of donuts—apparently someone’s car had been spotted leaving the garage early.

4. One morning, while mechanics were adjusting tire pressures, a strange humming sound filled the workshop. No one could identify its source. Suddenly, an old man in overalls appeared from behind a tire rack, rubbing his ear. 'That’s my hearing aid,' he grinned. Mechanics burst out laughing, realizing it was just poor old Mr. Jenkins next door, whose new hearing aid had a bit too much volume. Everyone went back to work, but every now and then someone would glance up with a smile when they heard him talking to himself—much louder than usual.