MANSFIELD - With the beginning of a new year also comes the opening of a new business in Mansfield: Corner FS, a full-service gas station and service shop.

Owner Les Shores of Mansfield said the business will have vehicle service initially, including oil changes, brake repairs, tune-ups and general maintenance. Gas, though, won't be available until February at the earliest because the underground storage tanks need updating.

Shores was a regular customer of the business when it was run by John Houser, who retired in 2005 after 28 years. When Houser retired, Shores didn't really consider taking over the business. But when the station went up for sale again, he was ready to try something new.

"It was time for a change," said Shores, a tool and die maker for 30 years.

Shores said since purchasing the station, he's done a lot of interior work to the building. He's also bought new equipment and tools.

He's happy about being able to reopen the business, first built in the 1950s, which Shores said has been a part of him "about all of my life."

He's also glad to offer the locals a place to hang out. "Once everyone knows we're open, they'll be down to have coffee and shoot the breeze," Shores said. "That's what keeps a small town alive."

Hours for the business are 5:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday.