Congratulations to Ray Chapman Motors, which has won the title Volvo Dealer Of The Year 2006.

It is the fourth time that the dealership, which has premises in York and Malton, has been named top dealer in the UK.

The award is made for new and used car sales, customer satisfaction, staff competence and general Volvo franchise standards.

Sixteen years on from its first success, it certainly is something to be proud of for the family firm.

Dealer principal Duncan Chapman is the third generation of Chapmans to be in charge of the franchise, following in the footsteps of his father, Ray, and his grandfather, Ray Chapman Senior, who established the business more than 35 years ago.

The tradition of family values and commitment to customer excellence means that the dealership has a customer retention level of almost 75 per cent.

Duncan said: "Our business would not be what it is today if it weren't for our customers. I believe that the customer satisfaction trademark set by my grandfather is the foundation of our success and what continues to help us drive the business forward."

"Dealership trust is probably one of the most important factors when buying a car. As we've been selling Volvos within the family for over 35 years, we have many customers who come back to us year after year to change their cars. They trust us because we do what we say we will do and treat them as individuals."

The award was presented to Duncan at the launch of the latest model in the Volvo range - the C30. More than 500 customers turned out to view the new model and were treated to an evening of entertainment with York band Huge.

Stuart Kerr, Volvo managing director, made the presentation.

Duncan was in no doubt what helped the dealership clinch the award.

"We would not be in contention without a dedicated, highly motivated workforce, for which I am very grateful. Winning this award was one of my main aims for 2006, especially as my father won the award when he was at the helm."

Mick Talbot, aftersales manager at York, has been with Ray Chapman Motors for almost 25 years.

He said: "Our aim has always been to offer a high class level of service with the support of a family personal touch."

Another member of staff with 25 years service is John Milburn, aftersales manager at Malton. He is the only person in Volvo history to win service awards at technician, advisor and manager levels.

John said: "We have always prided ourselves on our standards of customer satisfaction and strive to achieve this at all times."

Duncan added a special thank you to the firm's customers. "We'd like to thank our past and present customers for their continued support. We look forward to seeing them in the future," he said.