Anna Hewison named Young Vet of the Year 2026
“I cannot believe that I have won this award and feel incredibly honoured." - Dr Anna Hewison.
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has named Anna Hewison as its Young Vet of the Year for 2026.
Dr Hewison, a 2022 graduate of the University of Nottingham, is a farm veterinary surgeon at Shepton Vets. She is recognised for her consistently high standards of care, clinical excellence and commitment to her development.
An advocate for collaboration between farmers, veterinary professionals and colleagues, Dr Hewison brought new ideas to running the practice’s Youngstock Club. She has developed the club into a more collaborative and effective programme, encouraging closer working relationships and a joined-up approach to youngstock management.
Dr Hewison said: “I cannot believe that I have won this award and feel incredibly honoured. It is especially meaningful given the high standard of nominees. I genuinely love being a farm vet and find it hugely rewarding.
“I’m extremely grateful to my colleagues at Shepton Vets for their support, encouragement and the knowledge they have shared with me throughout my career so far. They have provided me with fantastic opportunities to learn and develop, and this award is very much a reflection of that.
“I would also like to congratulate the other finalists for this award, as well as the finalists and award winners from the other categories.”
Dr Rob Williams, BVA president, added: “Anna is an outstanding veterinary surgeon, and her clinical excellence and leadership is impressive at such a young age and so early in her career.
“It’s inspiring how dedicated she is to developing her skills and strengthening relationships and collaboration with farmers, other veterinary professionals and her team.
“She should be exceptionally proud of her achievements so far and we’re delighted to award her this prestigious title – it’s very well deserved. Well done, Anna.”
This year’s BVA Veterinary Mentor Award has been awarded to Sharon Ann King – a small animal vet at Downes Veterinary Services and a lecturer at Aberystwyth School of Veterinary Science.
Dr Williams said: “Vet school can be demanding and for some students, overwhelming. However, Sharon’s personal touch and commitment to ensuring that no one ‘falls into the cracks along the way’ means those she mentors get the compassionate and understanding support they need.
“The stories shared as part of her nomination were very moving and highlighted how she supports and mentors the “whole person” and not just the “vet student”.
Meanwhile the BVA Veterinary Leader Award was presented to farm vet Paul Horwood. Dr Williams praised his innovation, support and ‘calm and effective leadership skills’.
Image © BVA
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
