The Blue Cross animal charity has presented its Veterinary Nurse of the Year award to Vania Brasseleur for her dedication to improving animal welfare, both within her veterinary practice and among the local community in Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire.

The award was presented during the BVNA annual congress in Kettering, Northamptonshire by Mark Carwardine, zoologist and presenter of the BBC2 series 'Last chance to see' and Christian Bamber, Blue Cross director of service delivery.

Christian Bamber said: "This annual award is an opportunity for The Blue Cross to recognise the hard work of veterinary nurses across the UK and applaud those who go the extra mile to improve the lives of Britain's animals. Vania's enthusiastic approach to fundraising activities and her dedication to educating the local community is an inspiration to us all. Well done Vania for winning this year's award!"

Vania Brasseleur was nominated by student vet nurse and colleague Emily Martin at Astonlee Veterinary Hospital in Newport Pagnell. Emily said: "Vania is committed to helping student nurses broaden their knowledge and help them on to the path to qualification. Her charity work, serving the public, helping colleagues and of course her nursing abilities are all truly fantastic! I don't think anybody could ask for a better nurse."  

The Blue Cross is one of the UK's leading animal welfare charities and has a long history of educating the public in responsible animal care. This award celebrates the essential work of veterinary nurses, in both educating the public and promoting pet welfare. Veterinary practices and pet owners all over the country were invited to nominate a nurse who they felt had made an important contribution to their local community.

Commenting on her award, Vania said: "I was really surprised to find out I had won the award this year, I think I'm still a bit shocked. I'd like to thank my family for their continued support, and everyone at Astonlee. I really enjoy working at the practice and educating the public about animal welfare. I love my job as a vet nurse, I just hope I can carry on doing this forever!"

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