A Darlington veterinary practice has expanded its business by opening a second surgery in nearby Middleton St George.

Stanhope Park Veterinary Practice, in Stanhope Road, Darlington, opened its second surgery at The Square, Middleton St George, last week, in a bid to move into the developing rural and industrial areas, and to meet the demand of existing pet owners.

Practice partner Micaela Wright said: "The new practice will fill a gap in veterinary care in the village, but also will be very useful for those living in areas such as Yarm and Eaglescliffe, where there is a shortage of surgeries.

"Owners in Middleton St George and nearby villages will now be able to take their pets just a short distance to our new branch instead of having to travel further to towns like Darlington and Middlesbrough."

The new practice is mainly for consultations and nurse clinics, benefiting from two surgeries a day, with the use of an "animal ambulance" for pets needing to be transported from Middleton St George to the Darlington practice for treatment.

It also has a shop, open during office hours, where pet food and accessories can be purchased.

The development of the second surgery follows an extensive renovation of the main practice in Stanhope Road.

The surgery has a consulting room, an operating theatre and a new pet dental suite and x-ray room.

Andrew Geldard, another partner, said: "The increase in client base we hope to achieve from the Middleton St George move will allow us to fully utilise the innovative changes we have made at our main centre. We intend to run our branch at Middleton St George with the same high standards of care and attention we constantly strive to achieve at Stanhope Park."

The new practice is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 10am and 4.30pm to 5.30pm.