WELCOME TO ST IVES MOTOR COMPANY
family run In West Cornwall since 1977
Vehicle Sales & Sourcing
Over 25 vehicles in stock and through our extensive network of contacts, we are able to source any make or marque or vehicle.
Servicing & MOTs
All makes serviced and MOT’d. Please call to speak to a member of our team for more details and booking.
Body Shop & Valeting
On site body-shop and vehicle refinishing service. Full valeting facilities.
OUR STORY
St Ives Motor Company has a rich history in the motor trade. Established in 1977 By John Wells and John Gilmore as St Ives’ very own Ford dealership. The sales and service of early models such as the Mk3 escort, Sierra RS Cosworth and Mk1 Fiesta (pictured) saw growth of the business through the 80’s. And yes, the fuel was 76p, for a gallon.
John Wells background of Rally racing favoured the likes of the Rs2000, droop snoop RS model and Cosworth 4×4’s (used to rescue cars stuck in St Ives, pictured below) As well as the supply and sponsor of various other rallying motors for local events and tours.
John Wells and John Gilmore ran the dealership until 2000, hosting the famous ‘midnight handover’ in August each year, where older registration cars were sold at reduced prices to make space for the new stock coming in. Selling the 150mph flagship sapphire cosworth to 84 year old local couple Ron and Nelly (pictured) made national papers, and was featured in The Sun! Many of the customers still return today to buy used and electric vehicles.
After the retirement of John Gilmore in 2000 John Wells continued the dealership selling new and used cars alongside his son Johnnie, until the sale of the St Ives plot in 2012 and migration to the Longrock site, where it exists today in the hands of Dorel and Katie, son and daughter.
TESTIMONIALS
I felt compelled to write and thank you for your warm welcome every time I use your garage. As a lone woman, it can be an unpleasant experience having your car serviced or repaired, but, with all of you, there’s a friendly greeting, helpful advice, good workmanship and, most of all, respect. As my car is vital for work, I appreciate a good team keeping it safe and reliable, ensuring I stay ‘on the road’. I came to you through a very good friend, who is a long standing customer, and I have since recommended you to several people as I know they will be well looked after.
Fiona Lockhart
My family have purchased 4 vehicles from the lovely family team at St Ives Motor Co over the past 3 years. All sourced to our requirements & budget. We’ve found them to be helpful, friendly & professional throughout. Would totally recommend & will likely be buying our next electric cars through them when the time comes!
Helen Price
Not only am I impressed with the service of collecting and delivering my car. But also have so much confidence and faith in your garage. Being not only a female but also not having any knowledge of vehicles, I have always had to put myself in a garages hands and hope they do not undertake unnecessary repairs and replacements. Well with St Ives Motor Company I have never felt ‘ripped off’ and cannot tell you how much I appreciate being able to put my car in your hands knowing that not only will you do an excellent job every time, but also never shock me with a ridiculous high bill.
Carol Reynolds