SMC Car Company and E-Twist and Go open in King's Lynn

After 20 years of working in the motor trade, businessman Martin Seal decided to set up on his own and has in fact launched two new businesses in Lynn.

SMC Car Company and E-Twist and Go are both in the same building at Nelson Business Park on North Lynn Industrial Estate.

Martin, who began his career working with HGVs and then went into the car sales business, joining a local main dealer where he became general sales manager, was ready for a change of direction. He has set up his new businesses along with his wife, Samantha. They have two children, Connor, 8, and Dylan, six weeks old.

"Samantha was pregnant and we wanted somewhere where she could be part of the team too," said Martin.

"The idea for my business came from a time when a family member was looking for a used car. If you want to spend £10,000 on a second-hand car, there's lots of places to go around here, but if you are looking at spending less, then there is little choice.

"I fancied striking out on my own and decided to specialise in cars which range in price from £1,500 to £5,000. All the vehicles are hand-picked by me. They include seven-seaters, small first time cars, family cars and hatchbacks. They all have three months warranty which includes breakdown cover.

"Before choosing the premises, we had a feeling about electric products too. Kids these days seem to spend a lot of time indoors playing computer games and so on, but it's good for them to get out into the fresh air.

"That's where the idea for the second business E-Twist and Go came from."

It sells a wide range of electric goods including scooters, skateboards and bikes. All ages are catered for.

"They are for off-road use only, but they maybe legalised for the roads in the near future. One electric skateboard does 25mph, but most travel at about 15mph, which is slightly faster than walking pace.

"Having these premises means that people can come here and try out the products for themselves. It's much better than looking at something online or in a catalogue as you can get first-hand experience," said Martin.

Next year, he will be stocking push bikes including Raleigh and Frog brands. He already stocks a wide range of accessories for cars and cycles.