Sore Paws scales up with £400,000 investment

A County Durham veterinary practice is creating jobs in an expansion fuelled by £400,000 support.

Sore Paws Veterinary Clinic has been backed by NPIF II – Mercia Debt Finance.

The cash has allowed the Newton Aycliffe-based independent operator to move into a 2800sq ft space at the town’s Cobblers Hall shopping centre, which will include five consultation rooms, two operating theatres, a laboratory and x-ray room.

Bosses say the move will be matched by recruitment, with plans in place to increase the firm’s team of vets from four to seven and its nurses from six to nine. 

They add the business has retained its existing premises – a 900sq ft unit in the same shopping centre – which will house scanning facilities for hire by other vets.

Dr Sarah Holmes, veterinary director, who runs the practice alongside husband Aaron, said: “It is important to keep up to date.

“The funding will enable us to stay at the forefront and offer a modern surgery with all the latest equipment, while retaining the ‘village vet’ feel and our trusted relationship with clients.”

Gary Whitaker, of Mercia Debt, added: “Sarah and Aaron have built a successful and growing practice, but their existing unit was very cramped and they urgently needed more space.

“The funding will enable them to fit out and equip their new premises and provide a more welcoming space.”

NPIF II – Mercia Debt Finance is managed by Mercia Debt as part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II.

The £660 million Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II covers the North of England and provides loans from £25,000 to £2 million, and equity investment up to £5 million, to small and medium-sized businesses.

Paul Grace, of brokers YBFA, provided fundraising advice to Sore Paws.

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