Home   News   Article

Black Isle vet hailed for dedication and determination wins top UK title


By Staff Reporter

Easier access to your trusted, local news. Subscribe to a digital package and support local news publishing.



Click here to sign up to our free newsletters!
Lindsay Henry.
Lindsay Henry.

The dedication of a Black Isle vet has won her a top UK title.

Lindsay Henry of 1039 Kessock Equine Vets at Drumsmittal near North Kessock has been named vet of the year at the annual Petplan Veterinary Awards.

Due to coronavirus restrictions, the winners were announced during a virtual ceremony on social media hosted by author and presenter Gyles Brandreth.

The judges were impressed by Ms Henry's dedication towards clients and her thorough and patient approach to equine health.

They also said that despite often challenging circumstances, her admirable determination and spirit helped her deliver the best care possible.

Mrs Henry (36), who was diagnosed with the progressive neurological condition, multiple sclerosis, six years ago, is currently furloughed as she is deemed to be in a higher risk group from coronavirus.

"I am a workaholic so it is frustrating," she acknowledged "But the practice is doing a fantastic job under really difficult circumstances."

The winners of the veterinary awards, which attracted 37,000 nominations and celebrate the nation’s most outstanding vets, vet nurses, practices, practice managers and support staff, had been due to be announced at a black tie award ceremony in Birmingham but it was cancelled due to the pandemic.

Mrs Henry, who watched the online ceremony with her husband, was taken aback when her name was announced.

"Despite it being a virtual award ceremony it was done brilliantly," said Mrs Henry.

"My family, friends and clients were able to virtually support me and celebrate with me, albeit on a computer screen. After all, my success is their success.

"Thank you to my clients who kindly took the time to nominate me for this award.

"I was thrilled to be nominated, overwhelmed to be a finalist and it is absolutely incredible to be named the winner.

"I must also thank my husband Alastair, mum Isobel, and brother Kenneth for their unfaltering support, I couldn't have achieved this without them.

"It is wonderful to be able to be a part of something so positive in these uncertain and challenging global times. I am absolutely thrilled."

Last year, she and her brother ran the London Marathon for Leonard Cheshire in Scotland to help other disabled people.

Beforehand, she had built up her distance from 5km to doing half marathons.

During lockdown, she has continued with running challenges at home and has embarked on a personal challenge to notch up 100km throughout June.

Isabella von Mesterhazy, head of marketing at Petplan, said it was great to see so many people coming together online to see the winners announced.

"It felt particularly special this year to be able to say thank you to the veterinary profession who have continued to work tirelessly throughout Covid-19 to look after the nation's pets," she said.

"I would like to congratulate all of the winners on their brilliant achievement."

News from Ross-shire


Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.



This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies - Learn More