A VETERINARY nurse who works in Settle has taken a national title in a competition labelled as the ‘Oscars’ of the industry.

Anna Ashworth, 34, of Dalehead Veterinary Group in Settle, has been named the Vet Nurse of the Year for 2018 in the Petplan Veterinary Awards.

The independent panel of judges were impressed by Anna’s education in large animal welfare and the way she had worked diligently towards her own personal development within the veterinary industry.

They also said they recognised how Anna, of Airton, a former pupil of Bowland High School and brought up in Slaidburn, is a great example of how a registered veterinary nurse can make an impact in a large practice and in a rural community. The awards were made at a ceremony in Birmingham Town Hall.

Afterwards Ann said: “I can’t quite believe it, when I heard the news I was very shocked. I thought I was having chest palpitations!

“When I watched the other finalists I really didn’t think they would call my name, but I’m very pleased they did and I’m lucky to be a winner.”

Now in their 19th year, the awards are intended to celebrate the nation’s most outstanding vets, vet nurses, practices, practice managers and support staff.

This year there were more than 22,000 nominations in the various categories of the awards, made by pet owners and members of the veterinary community.