Chaos In Time

Len Maloney runs his shop with passion, professionalism and genuine care about his staff and customers- equal measures mentor, mechanic, and counsellor.  He remembers when he was 13 years old and inhaled the diesel fumes from a passing truck. From that exact moment he knew he wanted to work with engines. He apprenticed under Joe Chee (JC), a mechanic and VW dealer of Chinese and Mauritius origin. When Len was 17 or 18 he felt a calling of sorts to mentor others in car mechanics. Driven to teach useful skills and keep kids off the streets, he has given apprenticeships to both local school kids and up to 15 young offenders. It's a challenge.  Sometimes a rewarding one but sadly Len admits that often the kids are hardwired with the lack of a work ethic and he can't change them all. 
Len's team includes Dunston who hails from Montserrat, son Miles, Ramish from Trinidad and Didier along with changing student apprentices who help keep a tight order on tools and learn over the pro's shoulders. Together, they make a fine team with Len at the helm. Len often spends as much time speaking with his customers as he does fixing their cars. It's usually more listening than speaking and often more about life than car troubles.  I noted numerous bottles of alcohol in the office and Len explained that they were all gifts from appreciative customers. I ought to add a few bottles to the shelf.