A new veterinary practice will be opening in Colyton this summer.

Jurassic Vets, based in Sidmouth, will be opening a new branch at the Colyton Town Mill site, currently being developed by Axminster Property.

The veterinary practice has been confirmed as the first tenant at the town mill, and will be taking two of the eight units, which are now being purpose-built for their use.

Jurassic Vets was opened in Sidmouth by Dr Peter Martin in 2014.

Announcing news of the expansion to Colyton, a statement from Jurassic Vets said: "Opening in summer 2021, this will not be just a branch practice, but a fully-equipped 'sister' surgery to our Sidmouth practice.

"Overlooking the River Coly in two units of the beautifully-restored and historic Colyton Mill, cat owners will enjoy relaxing in a separate feline-only waiting-area and consultation room, while all pet-owners will love the reserved on-site parking and the beautiful riverside location with spectacular views over the Axe Valley.

"Fully-equipped with comfortable consulting rooms, a modern operating theatre, digital X-ray facility, ultrasound imaging suite and separate cat and dog kennels, Jurassic Vets Colyton will be able to provide outstanding veterinary care for cats, dogs and smaller animals in Colyton, Seaton, Axminster and beyond.

"Sidmouth's pets will also benefit from this investment, with our busy Woolbrook Road practice being upgraded with advanced new dental X-ray equipment."

Dr Martin added: "We're very excited about our plans for a new veterinary practice in Colyton - the town is full of cats and dogs who currently have to travel quite a distance to see a vet.

"The location is right beside the River Coly so pet owners will be able to park right next to the practice in reserved spaces and enjoy splendid views over the river and fields while they wait with their pet.

|We're hoping to open this summer and the response we've had from pet owners in Colyton, Seaton and Axminster has been superb - we can't wait to start meeting people and their pets."

Having stood empty for the best part of the 30 years, Axminster Property purchased the town mill site for one of its prestigious pension funds in July last year and has now started work on converting the original mill house into offices, and the more modern adjoining riverside workshop into units for light industrial use.

In total, the development will be made up of eight energy-efficient and accessible units that will breath new life into the Axe Valley economy and provide sustainable employment opportunities for residents of Colyton and the surrounding areas.