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PAVEL L PHOTO AND VIDEO / SHUTTERSTOCK Noticeboard SsangYong dealer network joins Motor Codes UK franchise dealer SsangYongs has subscribed its entire network to the government-backed Motor Codes service and repair code of practice for the automobile industry. Approved by CTSI, and launched in 2008, the Service and Repair Code is designed to ensure that consumers receive an honest and fair service when visiting a subscribers premises for work or repairs on their car. It covers a series of promises made by retailers and repairers, such as the use of clear advertising, open and transparent pricing, completing extra work only with prior agreement, and the use of competent and qualied staff. Furthermore, as a CTSI-certied Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) provider, vehicle owners have access to Motor Codes free advice and conciliation service. In the unlikely event of a dispute arising, and where it cannot be resolved directly with the garage, its legally trained representatives are able to assist with the settlement of cases. The franchise joins more than 7,600 main dealers and independent garages that currently adhere to the comprehensive set of best practice guidelines for the maintenance of customer vehicles. Paul Williams, chief executive of SsangYong Motor UK, said: The subscription of our dealer network to the Service and Repair Code reinforces the importance that our retailers have always placed on offering a service to customers that is trustworthy, reputable and carried out to a high standard. As an independent voice in the industry, being a part of Motor Codes also has the potential to drive new business and recommendations to our network, and therefore the return on investment can be signicant for all involved. Bill Fennell, managing director of Motor Codes, added: Last year, SsangYong had the second fastest-growing new car franchise in the country, and we are delighted to have this rapidly expanding network on board. GOT AN OPINION? We want to hear it. Email tstoday@tsi. org.uk or visit CTSIs forum page to add your voice to the discussion. We reserve the right to edit letters. Free underage sales training for businesses Devon and Somerset Trading Standards is hosting a series of free training evenings to help retailers avoid selling age-restricted products to children. In total, five events are being held the first was earlier in July. In the retail sector, the training and development of staff can be difficult, especially when large numbers of part-time or temporary staff are employed across many locations and turnover is high. Businesses that sell age-restricted products to children can face fines of up to 20,000 and a prison sentence. Retailers of age-restricted products such as liqueur confectionery, DVDs, alcohol and tobacco need to protect their businesses by ensuring they are aware of the law and how best to implement it, avoiding potential penalties for any breach of the legislation. The remaining seminars start at 6pm. They will be held on: 18 August in Yeovil; 23 August, Shepton Mallet; 8 September, Barnstaple; and 13 September, Taunton. Spaces are limited. Book via tsadvice@devon.gov.uk