A VETS' practice in Guisborough is pledging to continue the good work of its popular owner.

Clients have been in tears this week after the death of 46-year-old Chris Tootill, who had run the Wilton House Clinic for many years.

But "sad and shocked" staff vowed: "We will keep the business going. It is what Chris would have wanted."

Mr Tootill died suddenly at his Danby home in the early hours of Saturday.

Practice manager Valerie Allan said yesterday: "We are picking up the pieces here. We are in a state of shock but we will continue."

Mr Tootill had worked in Guisborough for the best part of 20 years, originally working for vet Harry Vasey and taking over when he retired about 13 years ago.

"The clinic will continue," said Mrs Allan. "It is a thriving business and Chris was so well respected."

The practice covers a huge area stretching as far as County Durham, Newcastle and the Moors across to Whitby.

"He was very well-known," said Mrs Allan.

Associate Mark Webster and the staff will keep the business going.

"Chris was very proud of the practice and we want to carry on, under Mark's guidance," she said.

Mrs Allan said clients had been ringing and sending condolence cards throughout the week.

"People have been in tears over the telephone and at the counter," she said. "We have been amazed at the depth of feeling, that people have been moved to tears. But they have known Chris for many years and are really upset."

Lancashire-born, Mr Tootill was the eldest of nine children and showed a love for animals at an early age. He travelled around the country building up a reputation before settling in Guisborough.

Mr Tootill leaves a partner, Evelyne Gresham, and two sons from a former marriage.

A funeral service will be held at Egton Bridge Church at 1pm on Monday, followed by cremation at Teesside