DUNFERMLINE-based Inglis Equine Vets and Loch Leven Equine Practice have announced that they are merging teams in a move that will see them become one of the largest and most progressive equine practices in Scotland.

The merger comes following the announcement of plans that Kinross-based Loch Leven Equine Practice are building a surgically equipped equine clinic servicing their own clients and offering a referral service for central and northern Scotland.

Adam Tjolle, partner of Inglis Vets, said: "We are delighted to be able to offer our clients the same excellent standard of care but now with an increased level of options and referral service. This new partnership of our existing team of equine vets with the Loch Leven team and the fantastic new equine facility currently under construction, should mean our clients get the best of both worlds now and into the future.

"We will retain the same caring team (vets Anne Logan and Eve Callaghan and veterinary nurse Debbie Miller) with the added benefit of immediate access to diagnostic tools such as the digital x-ray machines, ultrasound scanners, endoscopes and ability for full lameness investigations."

Hugh Somerville, director of Loch Leven Equine Practice, said: "The team at Loch Leven Equine Practice are excited to be merging with the team from Inglis Equine Vets. We are committed to working together to continue to raise the standards of the services we can provide for Central and Northern Scotland."

Inglis' senior equine and farm animal vet, Anne Logan, said: "This is a great way forward for horse owners in Central Scotland and to have all of these wonderful facilities on hand can only increase the service we are able to provide. To have this exciting clinic is the best for our clients and ultimately puts the highest priority on the welfare of all the horses under our care."

The merge will come into effect on Monday, March 11 and will see both equine teams based at the Kinross premises of Loch Leven Equine Practice.