The Bridge Dental Practice on Watling Street opened to private patients in November last year, but is now accepting NHS patients after being awarded the contract to provide NHS dental services in the town by the Northants Teaching Primary Care Trust.

The practice, which started accepting NHS patients on Monday, now has more than 1,000 patients registered with around 700 people handing in completed registration forms on the first day.

This week, Bridge Dental Practice's manager Julie Carr said: "When I arrived on Monday morning there were around 20 people waiting outside and 700 forms have been completed.

"It is very good for Towcester and we hope it will bring a lot of business into the town."

The practice is run by Leah Farrell, Penny Taylor and Geraint Evans and employs 10 people.

Towcester town mayor, councillor Chris Lofts, said the opening of the new practice was great news for the town.

He said: "It has been a long time since we had an NHS dental practice in Towcester and it is brilliant news, particularly for those who find it difficult to travel."

Diane Fenton, head of dentistry and practitioner services for NHS Northamptonshire said: "We are delighted with the opening of the new practice and that local people will now be able to attend as NHS patients.

"The opening is in line with our overall strategic plan to improve dental healthcare access within local communities."

In a statement, NHS Northamptonshire said investment was being made to increase the availability of dental services across the county with at least five new practices being established this year.

These along with others will also be open for longer hours in response to patient feedback.

Patients are recommended to contact the practice on 01327 358214 to check availability rather than visit the practice direct without making the necessary arrangments.