A BUSINESS leader was yesterday given a behind-the-scenes glimpse into a small business that is helping to drive the economic recovery.

Gerald Russell, national president of The Institute of Chartered Accountants, visited the Aston Martin Workshop, in Beamish, near Stanley, County Durham, which specialises in the restoration of vintage Aston Martins.

Started as a result of businessman Bob Fountain’s passion for classic cars, the centre, that employs 40 highly-skilled workers, is the first non-Londonbased independent facility to be awarded the status of Aston Martin Approved Service Agent.

Mr Russell said: “This small business is a wonderful example of the very best of British craftsmanship and is a credit to the vision of its founder and to the dedication of its North-East workers.”