ANIMAL lovers all across the Cotswolds now have a wider choice when it comes to their beloved pet's health and well-being, after a new veterinary surgery opened in Tetbury today.

Ashcroft Veterinary Surgery, based in Cirencester industrial estate, has just opened a new surgery in Tetbury's Hampton industrial estate.

And owner Stephen Tushingham said he is looking forward to welcoming new clients.

"It's like we've doubled overnight," said vet Stephen, who has worked at Ashcroft for nearly 16 years. Previously he only had three staff but has recently taken on new vet Cristina Mena and nurses Bethan, Jess and Sophie.

"We just want to get established in the town and give people in Tetbury an option," added Stephen. "Currently there is only one vets here.

"We are buzzing at the moment. We just need people now! It's been a manic few weeks getting the builders in and having the floors and walls done."

Ashcroft Veterinary Surgery was originally founded around 50 years ago, Stephen said, starting in Dyer Street before moving to Ashcroft Road where it took on its current name.

It then moved to Love Lane industrial estate, where it still is today, and the name stayed on. As well as Cirencester and Tetbury, there is also a surgery open daily in South Cerney.

Stephen said he had been thinking of expanding his business for some time.

"I had my eye on Tetbury, it's the next biggest town in the Cotswolds, and then we found this place," he said. "We don't want to get too big though. We don't want to be a practice where you see a different vet all the time. We are a family business and want that relaxing atmosphere. If your dog is ill the last thing you want is to be stressing about who you're going to see at the vets. You want someone you're comfortable with."

Ashcroft Veterinary Surgery in Tetbury is based at unit 3 Hampton industrial estate, Hampton Street.

Visit ashcroftvets.org.uk for more.