The Veterinary Nurses Council of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons has launched a new award to celebrate outstanding achievement, to mark the 50th anniversary of veterinary nursing.

The Golden Jubilee Award will recognise an exceptional contribution to the veterinary nursing profession and/or a positive contribution to animal welfare.

Liz Branscombe, Chairman of the Veterinary Nurses Council, said: "This is a prestigious new award and a great opportunity to recognise someone who has made a positive impact on our profession.

"VN Council strongly felt that the award should be accessible to a wide spectrum of veterinary nurses, so nominees could come from those veterinary nurses involved in clinical practice, research, teaching or politics - in fact, any aspect of veterinary nursing."

Nominations should be received by 1 May 2011, and more information, together with the nomination form, can be found online at www.rcvs.org.uk/VNat50.

The award will be presented at RCVS Day on 1 July 2011.

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vet nurses.