BVA president makes sustainability pledge 

Zoo and wildlife vet Justine Shotton has pledged to make sustainability a key priority after becoming the new BVA president.

Dr Shotton took over from James Russell at BVA Members Day, held online on 23 September, at which Mr Russell thanked BVA staff, volunteers and members for their hard work and support during a year full of “unprecedented change, challenges and uncertainty”.

New challenges

During the handover session, Winchester-based equine vet Malcolm Morley also joined the BVA’s officer team for 2021-22 after being elected junior vice-president.

Following her appointment, Dr Shotton said: “I am thrilled to be taking the presidential reins. This is proving to be a uniquely interesting and challenging time as the profession adapts to the demanding pressures of the pandemic, combined with workforce shortages and new challenges as we leave the European Union. But alongside these obstacles have come new opportunities and I believe it will be a very exciting year ahead.”

Working practices

Dr Shotton added: “My theme for my presidency will be sustainability, with a focus on environmental sustainability.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has centred the world’s attention on emerging diseases, and how these interplay with our use and impacts on the natural environment. Societies have realised anew the benefits of exposure to nature and green spaces. The forced changes to working practices have shown the world that alternatives are possible, and even preferable.”

Award winners

Three awards were also made at the event for outstanding contributions to veterinary science and services to the profession in the UK, and contributions to BVA council:

• The Dalrymple-Champneys Cup and Medal for work of outstanding merit – considered the BVA’s most esteemed scientific award and to encourage the advancement of veterinary science – was awarded to vet Mike Herrtage in recognition of his outstanding contributions to clinical teaching and research, veterinary specialisation, and dog health and welfare.
• The Chiron Award – presented by the BVA for outstanding contributions to veterinary science or to the profession, judged in either case as being of a standard commanding international or inter-professional recognition – was awarded to Ed Varley in recognition of his long career and being a “true champion of animal welfare and ethics in the UK and internationally.”
• The Bleby Cup was awarded to Devon-based vet Richard Walters in recognition of his exceptional contribution to BVA council, particularly in relation to his involvement in the development of key BVA policy positions, most notably the updated bTB position.