A dedicated farm vet in Shepton Mallet has been shortlisted for a national industry award.
Dr Anna Hewison has been named a finalist for the British Veterinary Association (BVA) young vet of the year award, now in its ninth year.
The award, supported by Zoetis, celebrates exceptional vets in the early stages of their careers.
Dr Hewison, who qualified in 2022 from the University of Nottingham, works at Shepton Vets and has been recognised for her commitment to high standards of care, professional development, and mentoring.
She said: "I was honoured and humbled to be nominated for this award – and I can't believe I've been named as a finalist.
"Congratulations to everyone who was nominated as well as all the hard-working vets providing care to animals of all shapes and sizes.
"I love being a farm vet and find it very rewarding to work with farmers to improve herd health, particularly youngstock.
"I am extremely grateful to my colleagues at Shepton Vets for their support, the knowledge they have shared, and the opportunities they have given me over the first four years of my career."
She has also played a key role in developing the practice’s Youngstock Club, transforming it into a more collaborative and effective programme that brings together vets, technicians and farmers.
Her work has focused on strengthening relationships and improving youngstock management through a team-based approach.
The BVA president, Dr Rob Williams MRCVS, said: "Vet teams have a profound impact both on the lives of individual animals and people, but also on society at large.
"The BVA Awards enable us to take a moment out of our busy schedules to recognise these achievements and celebrate the fantastic work of our community.
"This year’s award finalists stand out as shining examples of the very best of the veterinary profession, and it’s going to be very difficult to choose winners for each award."
Sarah Dyke, the Liberal Democrat MP for Glastonbury and Somerton, praised Dr Hewison’s achievements and her contribution to farming communities.
She said: "Anna's nomination for Young Vet of the Year is thoroughly deserved and a testament to her dedication, expertise and commitment to animal welfare.
"As a farm vet serving our rural communities, she plays a vital role in supporting both livestock health and the farmers who work tirelessly to produce our food.
"I am delighted to see her hard work recognised at a national level and wish her the very best of luck for the awards."
The award is part of a wider set of honours given by the BVA to recognise excellence and leadership in the veterinary profession.
Luis Gomez, general manager UK at Zoetis, said: "The veterinary profession operates in a dynamic environment, and it is genuinely inspiring to see how the nominees are navigating these conditions to make a difference for the animals in their care.
"This year’s Young Vet of the Year Award finalists are recognised for their outstanding contributions to the profession and the tangible difference they make for their communities every single day.
"Their passion and commitment are an inspiration for vets at every stage of their career.
"We are proud to support BVA in putting a spotlight on their exceptional contributions."
Winners across all categories will be announced at the BVA awards dinner at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole on Thursday, June 11.
Dr Hewison is one of three finalists for the Young Vet of the Year award, alongside Dr Jade Urquhart-Gilmore from Hampshire and Dr Rachael White from Bristol.
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