A BRIDGWATER dental practice, that hit Mercury headlines when opened, is celebrating 20 years in the town.

Parade Dental Practice, in North Street, was launched on July 15 1992 by Adrian Byrne.

After two decades of success, Adrian would like to thank all his patients, both past and present, for their support over the years.

"I bought a practice off a guy who was retiring and I opened in Bridgwater on July 15 1996," said Adrian.

"I was on the front cover of the Mercury on Tuesday July 16 as I launched the NHS practice.

"It was a big deal at the time and there was were people queuing as we were the first practice in Bridgwater.

"There's two of us here now as well as other staff.

"I've really enjoyed working in Bridgwater and we have a pretty good reputation with lots of support.

"I've loved it and hopefully will have a few more years.

"I want to thank all my patients, both past and present."

Adrian has also recently taken on the role of the chairman of Bridgwater Town Football Club.

He said: "I was approached by Bridgwater Town Football Club as my son plays for them.

"I was voted in as chairman recently and we've had an AGM and are planning lots of things.

"I plan to stay in this town and I hope people will continue to support both the dental practice and the football club.

"My staff are brilliant and most of them are Bridgwater born and bred and I would like to thank them too for their hard work."