A NEW vet for horses is off to a flying start after officially opening last week.

Based out of Linkswood Stud in Catley Cross, Linkswood Equine Vets is also home to Linkswood Veterinary Centre which opened last year.

The original centre is run by well-known vet Robert Lees.

Now Linkswood Equine Vets has been launched by veterinary nurse Hailey Harvey and veterinary surgeon Carolyn Wyse.

The pair were off to a flying start, seeing 170 horses register in their first week.

Hailey has looked after horses in the area for more 20 years and Carolyn is an experienced vet with an advanced veterinary practice certificate in equine medicine.

They are joined by experienced receptionist Holly Steward and hope to grow the team to a sensible size while keeping their services personal.

All three members of staff were previously employed by Robert Lees when he owned a mixed practice in the area, and say the team are excited to work together again.

Linkswood says horses in the area should be in good hands as the team is well known for the rescue of Gizmo the foal seven years ago.

The dying foal was rescued and has since gone on to win competitions.

A spokesman said: “Fed up with the corporate takeover occurring in the veterinary profession, this team is aiming to bring back the familiar and friendly veterinary care clients wish to have for their horses, ponies and donkeys.

“Fiercely independent and loyal to their patients and clients, they aim to deliver compassionate veterinary care to the Essex and Suffolk areas around their newly built clinic.

“From beloved pet to prized competition winner, this team will work with integrity and honesty to nurse them back to health."

All of the new equipment is portable, so the team can offer services at home or in the purpose-built clinic and can also offer hospitalisation of more serious cases which require more intensive care and nursing.

For more information, visit www.linkswoodequinevets.co.uk.