Somerset vet is crowned British Young Vet of the Year 2026

Dr Anna Hewison, of Shepton Mallet, received the prestigious national title at the BVA Awards dinner at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole on Thursday, June 11.

Supported by Zoetis and now in its ninth year, the award recognises outstanding veterinary professionals in the early stages of their careers.

A graduate of the University of Nottingham in 2022, Anna joined Shepton Vets shortly after qualifying and has quickly emerged as one of the profession’s rising stars. Beyond her clinical work, Anna has built stronger links between farmers and veterinary technicians, helping create a more joined-up approach to livestock care. Through her leadership of the practice’s Youngstock Club, she has reformed the programme to encourage closer teamwork on farms, thereby improving youngstock management and animal welfare.

On being named the winner, Anna said: “I cannot believe that I have won this award and feel incredibly honoured.

“It is especially meaningful given the high standard of nominees.

“I genuinely love being a farm vet and find it hugely rewarding. I’m extremely grateful to my colleagues at Shepton Vets for their support, encouragement and the knowledge they have shared with me throughout my career so far. They have provided me with fantastic opportunities to learn and develop, and this award is very much a reflection of that.”

She added: “I would also like to congratulate the other finalists for this award, as well as the finalists and award winners from the other categories.

“It is a privilege to be part of such a committed and passionate profession, and I look forward to continuing to learn and make a positive difference for the farmers and animals I work with every day.”

BVA president Dr Rob Williams praised Anna’s achievements and said: “Anna is an outstanding veterinary surgeon, and her clinical excellence and leadership is impressive at such a young age and so early in her career.

“It’s inspiring how dedicated she is to developing her skills and strengthening relationships and collaboration with farmers, other veterinary professionals and her team.

“She should be exceptionally proud of her achievements so far and we’re delighted to award her this prestigious title – it’s very well deserved. Well done, Anna.”

Luis Gomez, general manager UK at sponsor Zoetis, said: “This year’s Young Vet of the Year Award winner, Anna, and each of the finalists, demonstrate how with passion and commitment they make a difference for the animals in their care, whilst navigating the dynamics of the veterinary profession. Zoetis is proud to, together with BVA, shine a light on the outstanding contributions of rising talent within our industry.”

Anna’s local MP, Sarah Dyke, also welcomed the award and said: "Anna's BVA Young Vet of the Year award 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."

The BVA Awards celebrate veterinary professionals who go above and beyond for animals, clients and colleagues, while driving improvements in animal welfare, sustainability, leadership and veterinary science.

Announcing this year’s winners, Dr Rob Williams said: “The BVA Awards shine a light on the vital contribution vets and vet teams make in their communities and society at large; celebrating those who go the extra mile, who are outstanding in their fields; who show compassion and support for their colleagues; and make significant contributions to the health of both animals and people.

“We're so proud to be able to recognise their achievements and dedication and wish sincere congratulations to all our 2026 award winners.”

Full list of award winners:

• BVA Young Vet of the Year, supported by Zoetis - Dr. Anna Hewison

• BVA Wellbeing Awards, supported by ManyPets:

  • Small medium practice category – Vets for Pets Kirkcaldy

  • Large practice category - Chapelfield Vets

  • Non-clinical category – Sonopath 

• BVA Veterinary Mentor Award, supported by Hill’s Pet Nutrition - Sharon Ann King
• BVA Veterinary Leader Award, supported by Vetnique - YuMOVE Veterinary - Paul Horwood
• BVA One Health and Sustainability Award: Dr Laura Higham
• BVA Outstanding Service Award: Cat Henstridge
• BVA Advancement of Veterinary Science Award - Professor Tom McNeilly
• BVA Animal Health and Welfare Overseas Award (J. Trevor Blackburn Award) - Dr Romain Pizzi
• Vet Record Impact Award: Rosemary Perkins, Gaëtan Glauser and Dave Goulson
• WVS Global Veterinary Challenge, in association with BVA: Shreya Patel, Rudi Bruijn-Yard and Francesca Haldane