I started as a full time General Practitioner in Chelmsford in 1977. I knew my senior partner was retiring in just over three years. The main surgery was really two rooms attached to his house. When he retired, I needed to find new premises. The branch surgery was not exactly ideal. In fact, I had to find two new premises.

I bought a house in Broomfield, and developed it strictly in compliance with the regional district surveyor. This meant the building qualified for cost rent. In other words, my mortgage repayment was offset by the rent from the Essex Health Authority.

At the same time, I expressed interest in a new surgery in North Springfield. I was offered a portacabin by Fairview while I looked for a suitable plot. Three surgeries between two doctors meant a lot of extra work and travel.

When my partner retired, we had a surgery in Broomfield and a portacabin in Springfield. The new purpose built surgery was complete and we moved in March 1982.

Having two surgeries posed a problem with regular contact. This, however, changed when the practice was split and we stayed in North Springfield.There was nothing better than having one surgery and all the doctors and related staff under one roof.

I had a young energetic forward thinking male partner and a lady doctor who was as qualified as any local Consultant Gynaecologist. What could be better?

One partner qualified in Sidney, Australia and the other, born and trained in India. I was born in Guyana, South America and trained in Glasgow, Scotland. It was an unusual mix but one that worked extremely well.

Dr.Phil Hariram