1930s
In 1932, after saving his wages for many years at J.S. White’s, Percy Harwood purchased two fields at the top of Gravel Pit and Lushington Hill for £130. In 1933, he built the first garage on the site, measuring 50’x30’, at a cost of £325. Percy recognized it as an ideal location for a garage, situated 3½ miles from East Cowes, Newport, and Ryde, making it a perfect spot to sell fuel and cars to the growing market of mass-produced vehicles and private ownership.
1940s
With the outbreak of war in 1939, life at the garage changed dramatically. Percy and his wife, Dot, took on new roles as mechanics, as the existing mechanics had been called up for service. Petrol was rationed, and the Army commandeered the pumps. However, taxi services and vehicle repairs continued.
1950s
In 1957, new workshops were built on the existing site, and the garage operated as a Ford dealer at the time. Deliveries of new cars for sale were slow, but with taxis, fuel, second-hand sales, and repairs, the business continued to grow. By the late 1950s, Percy’s son, Stephen, had joined the firm. Stephen recognized that the UK was preparing to join the Common Market in Europe and saw the potential for foreign car brands.
1960s
In 1960, Stephen approached Renault, and the business became a Renault franchise. Six new Renaults were delivered, with the first model sold being the Dauphine, followed later by the iconic Renault 4. A new forecourt was constructed on the site of the one that exists today.
1970s
Throughout the 1970s, Stephen took over the business and completed a state-of-the-art workshop with multiple bays and lifts. Harwood's has always strived to stay at the forefront as the motor industry evolved.
1980s
Throughout the 1980s, the garage thrived, and Renault sales grew, with models such as the R5 and R25 seen all over the island. A new used car area was created, along with a raised display plinth at the front of the showroom.
1990s
The introduction of the Clio and Scénic models was a huge success on the island, and our customer base continued to grow. In 1994, we were deeply saddened by Percy’s passing, and he is still greatly missed. A testament to the man, we continue to hear stories about him from both customers and staff who worked alongside him.
2000s
“Our success as a business is partly due to our location and visibility, but most importantly, it’s thanks to our amazing staff and loyal customers,” says Matt Harwood. “We have many staff members who have worked their entire lives at the garage, having worked alongside my grandfather and my dad, Stephen.” He adds, “Likewise, with our customers, I love hearing stories about the garage and the people who work here. There are so many special individuals who have made this garage what it is today, and my family is truly grateful to all of them.” In 2013, the Dacia brand arrived in the UK, and it has been an unparalleled success for us, offering amazing value for money, stylish design, and durability. In 2013, we also lost Stephen Harwood, who is still greatly missed. Stephen had incredible vision and a wonderful way with people.
2023
In 2023, we celebrated 90 years as an independent, family-run business, making us the oldest garage firm on the Isle of Wight and the longest-serving Renault dealership in England, marking 65 years with Renault and Dacia. With an exceptional range of Renault and Dacia cars, high-quality used vehicles, a state-of-the-art workshop, skilled technicians, and a car wash, Harwood’s is the island’s all-in-one garage. We’re committed to moving with the times while never forgetting our roots and the customers who have supported us. Our heritage is your reassurance.
