Northern Ireland VN of the Year
The British Veterinary Nursing Association and Hill’s Pet Nutrition were delighted to award Claire McConaghy of Firmount Veterinary Clinic in Antrim, the Northern Ireland VN of the Year 2011.
Claire, who received a fantastic 12 nominations from clients and colleagues, was awarded a trophy and £250 gift voucher. Gemma Snodgrass of Parkview Veterinary Clinic in Strabane was awarded Animal Nursing Assistant of the Year and Mairead Mulvenna of Balmoral Veterinary Clinic in Belfast, Trainee Veterinary Nurse of the Year. Both Gemma and Mairead received a £100 gift voucher along with their award trophy.
Paula Quinn RVN MBVNA, Northern Ireland Regional Co-ordinator of the BVNA commented, “It’s so heartening to hear about these exceptional individuals, year after year. The quality of entries never diminishes and it is wonderful to be able to recognise the efforts of these unsung heroes in such a public way.” Speaking on behalf of the sponsors, Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Susie Turner thanked everyone who took the time to complete a nomination, “I rarely get through reading all the entries without developing a lump in my throat and feeling hugely proud to be associated with the veterinary nursing community. Our warmest congratulations go to the winners, well done!”
Eligible members of BEVA will be able to vote for their Council team until Monday, 17 August 2026. Members will have received an election email on 17 July.
