One of the Vauxhall dealerships serving the Wellington and West Somerset areas is set to close.

Rowcliffes, in Taunton, is set to cease trading from its East Reach site on June 30.

It is understood the decision was taken after new contracts for Citroen and Vauxhall, set to start in June, failed to materialise. The dealership was apparently given one months notice of the change.

Business at Rowciffe's Walton and Yeovil premises is not thought to be impacted at this time. Existing customers have been advised that their vehicles can be serviced at the Street branch, where Rowcliffes maintain their contract as the authorised Vauxhall repairers.

The closure was revealed by the Rowcliffe group's general manager, David Malcolm, in an email sent out to customers. It read:

"I am writing to inform you of the impending closure of our Vauxhall dealership at East Reach, Taunton. We will close for business at this site on June 30, but will continue to be fully functional at our sites in Walton, Street and Summerhouse terrace, Yeovil.

"We were informed at the end of last year that we would be receiving new contracts for both our Citroen and Vauxhall franchises in June 2023, but last month they changed their mind and have rescinded that commitment, giving our territory and Stellantis franchises to another group. We have had about a months notice on this action.

"The result for us is a perfect storm, as the lease on the Taunton premises is up for renewal at the end of July 2023, making it impossible for us to re-franchise in that timescale, so we have had to make the difficult decision to relinquish the lease at Taunton. We will have to close the premises at the end of June, to give us time to move everything to move to Street and Yeovil."

Customers took to social media to express their disappointment at the news.. Jay Pepper commented on Facebook: "Very sad news. After taking my Vauxhalls to Rowcliffes service department since 2000 it will be a sad day for all the staff who have been excellent throughout the years.

"Now where to go to get my Tiger MK1 safely serviced? Thank you to all the staff for all their hard wrk over the years. Gutted for you all, good luck."

Nicola Tilley commented: "Very sad to read this. Have been a loyal customer for many years and currently have a service plan with you. Not too keen on travelling to Street so when my service plan comes to an end in December I will be hesitant to continue which is a real shame."

The full statement from Rowcliffes of Taunton can be read on their website.