A VET who served the people – and animals – of Wellington for many decades has died, aged 85.

Gerald Vicary (pictured), of Blackmoor, died at Nynehead Court in Wellington, where he had lived for more than three years.

Originally from Devon, the son of a butcher and the middle of three children, Mr Vicary decided early in his life that he wanted to look after animals rather than watch them suffer, so he decided to become a vet.

He attended Tiverton Grammar School and went on to study veterinary science at the Royal (Dick) Veterinary College in Edinburgh, where he met his future wife, Moreen Filed.

He brought his wife back to the West Country and became an assistant vet at the Mount Veterinary Practice, later becoming a partner in the business.

In 1996 the Mount became the first veterinary hospital in Somerset, bringing a range of facilities to Wellington and the surrounding area, and also new employment opportunities.

Mr and Mrs Vicary lived in Blackmoor for almost 40 years, where they brought up their three children Susan, Neil and Sandra and in later years enjoyed spending time with their four grandchildren.

Mr Vicary became an established figure in the community of West Buckland, where he chaired the parish council for several years.

He also played for Culmstock Cricket Club.

Donations in Mr Vicary’s name can be made to St Margaret’s Hospice.