WHEN Selkirk dentists James McIntyre and Ewen Hendry decided to return to Central Scotland to be closer to their homes and families, they were determined to make sure that their former patients would remain in safe hands.

And rather than accept an offer from a large corporation, the pair chose Dilip Pathak and Sneha Panday to carry on their good work at Selkirk Dental Practice.

Dilip, 34, who spent six year as a dentist in Inverurie and Sneha, 30, who spent three years in Aberdeen have moved to the Borders and set up home in Galashiels.

“There have been some tears from a few patients, and it was important to choose the right people to take over,” Ewan said.

“Dilip and Sneha are a friendly and caring young couple that we ‘hand-picked’ because they are such a good fit as we wanted what was best for this practice.

“It wouldn’t have been right to hand over to a large organisation.”

James added: “I’ve really enjoyed my 12 years at Selkirk and it’s been a privilege working here.

“We have been really lucky with our group of patients.”

The new owners are both originally from Mumbai in India where they qualified as dentists and previously worked.

Dilip now has 12 years dental experience and Sneha has six.

The couple moved to Scotland in 2015 and since then Dilip has worked at a practice in Inverurie whilst Sneha worked in Aberdeen for three years.

The family are looking now looking forward to exploring the region with their young son when they get a spare minute, but right now they are concentrating on meeting their new patients and building up the business.

Sneha told us: “Our aim is to serve the people of the Borders by providing general dentistry with a modern innovative touch and serve smiles along the way.”

Dilip added: “We started on July 2 so I have met a few patients so far and they have been friendly, welcoming and so warm which was similar to what I experienced in my last practice.

“The Scottish Borders is like home from home, and we are looking forward to exploring the area. I have heard about the Border Berries and am keen to visit there.”