AN official launch event has been held for a new private GP medical service near Wellington which has been running since a ‘soft’ opening in March.

Peninsula Private Medical Services is based in Waterloo Court Health and Wellbeing Hub, between Uffculme and the M5 motorway.

About 50 invited guests attended the launch and took the opportunity to look around the facilities of the bespoke building, which has grown from two old farm cottages.

The main building in Waterloo Court now houses a private GP service with specialisms including women’s health and dermatology.

To the rear of the development there is a courtyard offering space to more than 20 complementary practitioners who provide treatments ranging from pilates, nutrition support, and counselling, to massage and beauty care.

The business was founded by Tim Davies, James Davies, and Tina Teague, each of whom has a background in NHS management and operations.

With word spreading fast since the service became up and running, the trio were keen to celebrate their successes so far and have an opportunity to showcase the impressive capabilities to guests.

James Davies gave guests an explanation of the vision behind the private GP service, which offers appointments at £70 for 15 minutes and which are usually available in 24 to 48 hours.

Mr Davies said: “We had been looking for a suitable building for a number of years, and then we noticed something was happening with these cottages that we drove past daily.

“The timing was perfect, and after making inquiries, the new venture took shape.”

Landowner Mike Blackmore told guests how he was inspired by the idea of creating something which would serve the local community, built in a bespoke and collaborative way.

Peninsula PMS and the wellbeing hub are now serving clients from across a wide area, including Tiverton, Exeter, Taunton, South Devon, and Minehead.