Brooks Computers: Our Journey
Brooks Computers was born in August 2003 — I remember it clearly, because England had just won the Rugby World Cup.
We started, quite literally, in a shed at the bottom of my brother Philip’s garden. Philip, Laura, and I (Andy) shared that humble workspace, fixing computers and solving tech woes for whoever knocked on the door. It didn’t take long before we outgrew it.
In 2005, we took the leap into retail — opening our shop at 17 Woodstock Road, Toton. We quickly became the local go-to computer repair shop. We worked ridiculous hours: 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week. By now we had seven staff, including Billy from across the road, who just became part of the team and eager to learn.
2013 - All change!
Tech was exploding — broadband, mobile phones, home networking. It was all becoming essential. Laura soon welcomed her daughter, Lyla, into the world. She juggled family and work like a champ.
Beverley joined the day-to-day team, and we moved next to Toton’s post office. There, we welcomed two young apprentices: Niall and Matt. Both thrived. Niall went off to university. Matt got headhunted and now works in enterprise-level server support. Billy left for a bigger role at PC world. One of the most satisfying aspects was watching the young team grow and mature taking something we had taught with them along to their new lives. Meanwhile, Laura welcomed her second child, Ronnie, and stepped away to focus on her growing family.
2019 - Covid!
Then came COVID.
March 23rd, 2020: “From this evening I must give the British people a very simple instruction – you must stay at home.” — Boris Johnson.
It was surreal. No work, no clients, no income — just sunshine, uncertainty, and time to think.
So, we adapted.
We launched a Collect & Return service to support our customers safely — and as key workers, were able to continue offering help throughout lockdown.
2025 - The future
That’s how we operate to this day. Whether we return to a full retail space? Time will tell. The High Street and Online are merging. Tech has never been more vital. The world’s different now, but the need for trusted, human tech help is stronger than ever.
Thank you to everyone who’s supported us over the years. We’re still here — solving problems, fixing gear, and having the odd cup of tea with a good client.
And now, we look ahead.
With technology evolving faster than ever — and AI becoming part of everyday life — both home users and businesses face a new wave of opportunity (and the occasional headache). Whether you're trying to keep your family safe online or navigate cloud systems and automation at work, we’ll be right there with you.
Helping you understand it. Helping you use it. Helping you trust it.
At Brooks Computers, we’re not just fixing the past — we’re building the future, together.
Here’s to whatever’s next.
Andy Brooks & the Team ❤️
