A MECHANIC who started learning about car engines by helping his father when he was three-years-old has died, aged 79, after a life spent running a garage.

Harry Lowson became known for telling what was wrong with vehicles by listening to them for a few moments at his workshop in the Teesdale village of Eggleston.

He was a toddler when began going with his late father, Cleasby Lowson, to a workshop. He watched as repairs were completed and then began helping.

After a few years, he could handle simple repairs and, after leaving school, he put in long hours at the garage - as well as working on his grandparents' farm.

He began working full time in the garage 50 years ago when he married his wife, Marie.

Mr Lowson worked at the garage until his late seventies, when he became ill.

Mrs Lowson said: "He never had any formal training, but loved telling us that he started learning the trade when he was aged three.

"He never had any hobbies, because the garage was his whole life.

"He could tell right away what was wrong with a vehicle and could soon put it right.

"He was always ready to help and would never turn anyone away, whatever the time.

"We had a few holidays but apart from that, the only time he took off regularly was Christmas Day. He just loved being in the garage."

Cleasby Lowson had a small garage in Mickleton more than 85 years ago and sold petrol in Middleton-in-Teesdale before opening the Gatehouse Garage, in Eggleston. The business is now run by Harry's son, Terry.

Mr Lowson's funeral will be held at St Mary's Parish Church, Middleton-in-Teesdale, tomorrow at 11.30am. Donations in lieu of flowers will be shared between the church and Cancer Research UK.