A DENTAL group with one of the largest NHS contracts in the country has been bought by two colleagues following seven-figure finance from Unity Trust Bank.

Dr Kuldipsinh Gohil and Dr Jasmin Thoria used a £5.6m loan to buy Sterling Dental Group in South Road, Southall, which predominantly serves South Asian and Somalian communities.

The practice’s 18-strong team of dentists are from diverse backgrounds, which helps break down language barriers and encourages patients to look after their oral health.

Dr Gohil said: “The Sterling practice is the first of its kind. Our staff understand South Asian lifestyles because they are from similar backgrounds and people feel comfortable coming here and communicating with us. 

“Dr Thoria and I had been working at Sterling for five years and, when it came on the market, we knew we wanted to buy it.”

Six new jobs have been created at Sterling since the buyout and there are plans to link with universities to develop more student opportunities at the group’s training centre, which is also in Southall.

It currently supports around 280 student placements a year.

Paul Kelly, Relationship Manager at Unity Trust Bank, said: “The operators have a deep connection with the local community and this was evident when visiting the surgeries on multiple occasions.

“Sterling is having a positive impact in Southall.”