A vet in Cornwall is one of two in the south west to win top British Veterinary Association (BVA) awards. 

Truro vet Dr Luke Gamble has been presented with the BVA Animal Health and Welfare Overseas Award (J Trevor Blackburn Award), which recognises those who have contributed to the control of livestock disease and the raising of standards of both animal and human health and welfare worldwide. 

The award was given to Dr Gamble for his commitment to advancing animal welfare through his founding of the Worldwide Veterinary Service (WVS) and Mission Rabies. 

He said he was 'profoundly honoured' to recieve the award. 

"This accolade isn’t just a recognition of my efforts, but a testament to the tireless dedication of every individual who has been a part of the charity team over the last 20 years," he said.

"From the incredible staff at Worldwide Veterinary Service and Mission Rabies, to our trustees, donors, and amazing volunteers, this award is thanks to them.

"Everything I have had the privilege to be a part of relating to international animal welfare has been the result of inspiring colleagues, mentors, friends, a very supportive family, and tremendous supporters, who drive the projects on and consistently go the extra mile to enable these incredible ventures to win.

"Thank you to all the WVS team, to everyone who has been with us over the years and thanks also to the BVA who have backed WVS and Mission Rabies since its inception. I cannot wait to see what we can all achieve together over the next twenty years.”

Also winning in the south west was Devon vet Dr Richard Sibley, known as Dick Sibley, who was awarded the BVA Advancement of Veterinary Science Award (Dalrymple-Champneys Cup and Medal), which recognises outstanding contributions that have helped advance veterinary science. 

It was given to Dr Sibley for his role as an inspirational mentor and teacher to younger vets, as well as his scientific research which has done so much to improve herd health.  

He said he was 'honoured and flattered' to be presented with the cup. 

Falmouth Packet: Dr Richard Sibley, who was presented with the BVA Advancement of Veterinary Science Award

Dr Richard Sibley was described as an inspirational mentor and teacher to younger vets

"I look at previous winners and am in awe that I have been added to this list of great names in the profession," he added.

"I am particularly honoured to be associated with the Dalrymple-Champneys' name, as he built his reputation on preventive medicine, and particularly the management and control of brucellosis and tuberculosis, with particular interest in the milk industry.

"I am indebted to all those who inspire, energise and enthuse me, including my great friends, Joe Brownlie and Peter Orpin, as well as my colleagues at West Ridge Veterinary Practice, who embrace the culture of the practice and enthusiastically provide the day-to-day service for our valued clients.”

Other award winners included: 

  • BVA Outstanding Service Award (Chiron Award): Dr Jane Ladlow
  • BVA Council Impact Award (John Bleby Cup): Dr Elysé Summerfield-Smith
  • Vet Record Impact Award: Angela Heeley, Dave Brodbelt, Dan O’Neill, David Church and Lucy Davison

BVA president, Malcolm Morley added: “This year’s BVA achievements awards spotlight an inspirational group of veterinary professionals, whose hard work, dedication and talent have in a variety of ways helped advance veterinary science and the profession or improved the lives of animals across the UK, and in many cases all three.

"I congratulate and thank them on behalf of the team at BVA and the profession for their outstanding work.”