ANDREW GILMOUR

I have practised as a full time Osteopath in Ipswich for more than 30 years having qualified from the British School of Osteopathy in 1978. In the early days osteopaths had 'horns' and were often branded as 'charlatans'. It is hard to believe that before 1980 a doctor could be 'struck off' for referring a patient to me. The change in 'The General Medical Council Rules' was the first of many important steps to the recognition which Osteopathy enjoys today.

It has been priviledge to witness and be involved in the process of change. I have put effort back into the Osteopathic profession on a National basis serving on its governing body, the General Osteopathic Council, its Public Relations, Ethics, Education and Research Advisory Committees. I undertook a further degree in the mid 90's, and sat on the board of The British School of Osteopathy where I also acted as an examiner of the Clinical Competence of graduating Osteopaths for more than 15 years.

I have occupied the position of validator for The Open University. The practice I started in 1978 steadily grew with Mark Piper becoming a partner in 1994 and later Physiotherapist Marc Rapkin in 2000 shortly after we moved into and refurbished 10 Fonnereau Road. The Practice has steadily grown into the Multidisciplinary team it is today, being one of the largest practices in the country offering a wide range of options for patients