A FORMER doctor’s surgery has been transformed into a chic new restaurant, adding to Urmston’s ever expanding bustling social scene.

A new restaurant has opened up in the former Primrose Avenue Surgery in Primrose Avenue, off Crofts Bank Road.

In 2015, the GP surgery left the site after almost 30 years, relocating to a purpose re-designed space in the former Davyhulme Library building.

But the new owners were keen to keep hold of the building’s history, naming the business venture The Surgery.

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Andy Kershaw, owner of The Surgery, with his team at the opening night. Image: Carla Speight

Saturday March 18 was the official opening of the new restaurant, with best friends Hollyoaks actor Jamie Lomas and Emmerdale’s Anthony Quinlan special guests on the night.

“My aim for the restaurant is to create a place that people feel relaxed and comfortable while enjoying fresh food and drink,” said owner Andy Kershaw.

“We aim to bring the city vibe and style of Manchester to the suburbs in a warm, welcoming and friendly atmosphere.”

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Andy Kershaw with wife Kate and daughter Violet at the opening of his new restaurant The Surgery

The restaurant fulfils a life-long ambition for father-of-three Andy, who has spent the past ten years teaching in the catering and hospitality industry.

After spending the past decade in kitchens in and around Manchester, the trained chef explained why he chose Urmston as the place to launch his restaurant business.

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The Surgery opening night in Urmston. Image: Carla Speight

“Urmston is an up-and-coming area with a sense of strong community,” he said.

“The centre has a bustling atmosphere and the location we have chosen for the restaurant is central to all of that.

“I believe that Urmston is a fantastic place to introduce a new restaurant bar concept. With the addition of the artisan market, independent businesses, a strong network link Urmston is a prime location that is ready and in need of more good places to eat, drink and socialise.”

Diners can expect pizzas, steaks and burgers on the menu, with ingredients sourced from local and Italian suppliers.