About Us
Founded in 2023, Duchy Equine is an independent equine practice with a straightforward approach: experienced vets, evidence-based medicine, and a genuinely personal service based on relationship and community. We have a tight-knit team and a focused practice area, so that we can consistently deliver the best service possible.
1. Grounded in evidence
Clinical decisions should be based on what the science says, not habit or convenience. We keep our knowledge current and apply it ethically and honestly.
2. Part of the community
We're here for the long term. Duchy Equine is a community, not just a veterinary practice. That means knowing our clients, understanding their horses, and being a practice people can rely on every step of the way.
3. Straightforward and approachable
We give our honest opinion and believe in good communication is as important as good medicine.
4. Your goals, our expertise
Whether you're keeping a veteran comfortable or have a professional yard, we take the time to understand what you're working towards to see how we can support you.
5. High standards
We take pride in doing things properly, in the field, in the office, and in how we look after our team. We invest in our people and our skills because the standard of care we offer should always be as good as it can be.
Charlie Thomas
Charlie graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in 1996 and has a certificate in Equine Practice (the equivalent of a Masters). She worked in mixed practice for 18 months before landing her first equine job and has been a purely equine vet ever since. She has worked in big hospitals, for tiny local practices and everything in between but has always remained true to her love of providing the best quality, friendly yet professional care she can.
Charlie has an interest in all things medical (especially if she can stick an ultrasound machine on it!). She is usually accompanied by her Labrador, Rocky, when she’s not being a taxi service for her children or sea swimming.
Iain Brunt
Iain graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in 2017 and developed his equine expertise through early career work in Namibia, before spending several years in dedicated equine practice in both hospital and ambulatory environments. In 2021, he relocated to Cornwall where he first worked with Charlie. Iain joined the team at Duchy in 2026 as a vet and practice director. Iain has a particular focus on poor performance and lameness investigations.
Iain lives in Truro with his wife, Becky, and their two dogs - Mara, a yellow labrador; and Winnie, a Border Terrier. Outside of work, lain enjoys cycling and sailing in and around Cornwall.
Sarah Buscombe
Sarah started working as a veterinary nurse in 1985 in Cornwall. She then moved to Yorkshire for 2 years to work in a Small Animal Hospital, returning to Cornwall in 1987. Sarah qualified in 1988 and has worked as a small animal and equine nurse ever since.
Outside of work, Sarah enjoys horse riding and dog walking. She has 2 cobs, Harvey and Jester and a border collie called Molly.
Beccy Thomas
Beccy has over four years of experience working in the equine veterinary industry. Beccy learnt to ride at a young age and has always thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the equestrian world. Most of Beccy’s spare time is spent riding her warmblood, Bianca.
Together they enjoy frequent training sessions and local fun rides. Beccy also loves to explore the Cornish countryside with her dog, Bruno and baking.
Molly Ashwin
Molly joined the Duchy Equine team in June 2025. Molly has spent her life with horses and is interested in every part of it!
Outside of work, Molly can usually be found at the yard with her three horses—whether she's out eventing or enjoying a gallop along the beach. When she's not with the horses, you will probably find her in the nearest cake shop!
Rachel Sluggett
Rachel joined the Duchy team in July 2023. She has a wealth of knowledge from working as a medical dispenser for the NHS. Having grown up on her family farm on the Roseland, Rachel has always loved being outside and looking after the animals.
Away from work Rachel can be found spending time with her 2 horses; Blue and Hector, on the netball court or helping on her husband's arable farm.
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