OP Michael Gilbertson (86-96) has become a local employer supporting the community by opening a new veterinary practice in Gate Helmsley, in between Stamford Bridge and Dunnington.

Commenting on the opening of Birchwood Veterinary Practice, Michael said: “I have always wanted to have my own veterinary practice and the time had come in my career to make it happen.

“Contributing to the local economy by employing a local team feels like the right thing to do.  I have always lived in the area and knew I wanted to continuing practising locally as I am invested in the growth and the health of the local economy.

“Having been educated in Pocklington I know how important the community is to the town and surrounding villages and it’s great to be able to add to its growth.”

Birchwood Veterinary Practice is also supporting the community by hosting, attending and sponsoring various events.  It hosted a Macmillan World’s Biggest Coffee Morning, sponsored the dog show at Stamford Bridge Summer Fayre and the animal show at Dunnington Fayre.

Michael continued: “Being able to give something back to the community and support events hosted in the area is really important to the Birchwood team.”

Birchwood Veterinary Practice is based behind BATA in Gate Helmsley, is currently registering new clients and cares for all kinds of animals.

The practice provides routine appointments seven days a week in their purpose built surgery which includes a fully equipped in house laboratory and purpose built sterile surgical facilities.

For more information about Birchwood Veterinary Practice please visit www.birchwoodvet.co.uk.