A FAMILY business that has lasted 30 years has shared its secret of success.

Harwich Tool Hire, which has been awared for its sales and service of lawnmowers, was started by two merchant seamen.

Sean Mills and his father Brian joined forces with another man called Harry Jarvis to open a store in Bathside.

“I started with my Dad when I was 21, and now my son Luke, 23, is working here so we are on the third generation,” Sean said.

With independent traders and chain stores all struggling in the recession, Harwich Tool Hire has stayed strong even through challenging times with competitor Focus in the town.

“We work really hard,” Sean said.

“You have to adapt really.

“You don’t have to be academically clever to succeed.

“Everyone is good at something, you have to find that and put it to good use.”

To add to its achievements Harwich Tool Hire has recieved an Award for Excellence from GGP, a leading manufacturer of Lawn Mowers and Garden Products.

It was awarded in recognition of Outstanding Sales and Service of Mountfield Lawnmowers.