Entries are open for the new Royal Bath & West ‘Farm Vet of the Future Award’, which seeks to recognise and celebrate the next generation of farm vets.
“We’re pleased to introduce this new award, which carries with it the historical prestige of its dairy focused predecessor, as well as professional opportunity for the future,” says James Bardwell, Royal Bath & West council member and chair of the judging panel. “In what is a very challenging industry, progressive committed young people need to be supported. This award does that, and in a broad way across the large animal spectrum.”
Paddy Gordon, director and farm vet at Shepton Vets, and fellow judge, adds: “The award recognises the next generation of farm vets, while broadening the scope of the award beyond just dairy. We think the award is a good way of offering encouragement to those that take the initiative.”
The large animal veterinary sector is facing challenges with recruitment, explains Mr Gordon. “We need to proactively help students understand the opportunities in large animal medicine, and offer support to those who are dedicated.”
To win the award, applicants will need to demonstrate a good understanding of disease and on-farm health challenges, he says. “Candidates need to show they can digest and interpret all the science and distil it down into clear messages and actions.”
Sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim, which is providing a £1000 cash prize for the winner, the award is open to UK final year vet students committed to becoming farm vets. Entrants will need to submit a piece of work that demonstrates clinical knowledge and interest (case report, herd health project, elective or dissertation) and 300-500 words outlining what they think the role of a farm vet of the future should look like.
Applicants are invited to apply for the prestigious award by the closing date of Tuesday 11 April, with the winner and runner-up having the opportunity to receive their awards at the opening ceremony of the Royal Bath & West Show.
- To enter the farm vet of the future award, visit http://www.bathandwestsociety.com/farm-vet-of-the-future-award
- The Royal Bath & West Show takes place on 1-3 June 2023 at The Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset BA4 6QN. Competition entries can be made by visiting https://www.bathandwest.com/royal-bath-and-west-show/competitions
- Book show tickets here: https://www.bathandwest.com/tickets
Editors’ notes.
About the Royal Bath & West of England Society
The Society was founded in 1777 in Bath by a group of philanthropists led by Edmund Rack. We are a registered charity organisation (Registered Charity Number 1039397). The Society was formed with the aims of encouraging agriculture, arts, manufacture, and commerce.
Our charitable activities provide:
- Agriculture, veterinary, educational and art scholarships
- Technical events and seminars
- Practical farming advice and conferences
- Countryside education
- Diversification advice for farmers
- Education for children
- A marketplace for countryside products
The Society continues to deliver a wonderful mix of established traditional exhibits through to the latest energy technology and contemporary entertainment.
The entertainment and features around the 240-acre site ensure enjoyment for every member of the family and include attractions that are spectacular to watch, educational, inspirational, “hands on” or just plain fun.
