By Thomas Maher
THE local owner of a 1958 Chevy truck – which was used to raise thousands of pounds for charities – is fearing the worst, after a Dublin garage in which the vehicle was parked was partially destroyed by a fire on Tuesday night.
Lifford man Keith ‘Bear’ Gamble told this newspaper that he remains unsure of the condition of the truck but hopes that it may be in a better condition than he first feared.
The blaze at Deane Motors was started by accident after a fire ignited in a shed at the back of the garage and which quickly spread throughout the business.
“When I first heard the news this morning (Wednesday) and seen pictures of the fire in the garage I thought for sure thought the truck was gone,” Bear said.
“However I have since seen another picture where there is still part of the garage standing. I am unsure of the condition of my truck but I know no matter how damaged she is I won’t give up on her and will do my best to get her running again.”
Bear organises fundraising events including vintage car shows and rallies, the most well known being The Bear Run 74.
The 1958 Chevy truck has been used in these rallies and has also delighted crowds all over the North West at recent Christmas lights switch-on events.
Following the inferno, a spokesperson for the Deane Motors stated on social media, “The home of Ireland’s car culture is gone.
“We don’t know what to say. Please bear with us over the coming days.
“Everyone is safe and that’s all that matters.”
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