A CAR dealership at the Grove in Dorchester has ceased trading.

A sign in the window of Aztec Renault informs customers of the closure and recommends they contact Renault dealerships in Poole or Yeovil for more information.

President of the Dorchester and District Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism Alistair Chisholm said: "It's always unfortunate to see a business close.

"I'm sure there's nothing wrong with the product but it has happened anyway.

"Having main car dealerships is useful in any town, particularly here.

"It will be interesting to see if another motor dealer can negotiate with Renault or another maker to continue using the premises."

Mr Chisholm added that he thought the chances of the building reverting back to its original use as a pub are extremely slim'.

There was no answer on Aztec Renault's phone number yesterday and the building inside has been emptied of furniture and computers.

Renault UK spokesman Stella Pitt said: "Renault UK is aware Aztec, Dorchester, has ceased trading.

"With regards to deposits paid, Renault UK will honour any deposits paid for new Renault cars where the sale of the vehicle is completed.

"If customers have any queries, they can contact Renault UK Customer Services for further information."

The dealership was opened in October 2005 by managers Gideon Carroll and Adrian Hemmings to cover the Renault franchise in the Dorchester area from Lyme Regis to Purbeck.

Aztec Renault was created from scratch by former regional motoring group managing director Mr Carroll to replace AKS Renault's satellite dealership at Winterbourne Abbas.

Around 14 staff members from the Winterbourne Abbas area were re-employed at the Dorchester dealership following the move.

Contact Renault UK Customer Services on 0800 072 3372 about deposits and completed sales of cars.