A Shepton Mallet vet who is helping farmers and veterinary teams work more closely together has won a major national award. Dr Anna Hewison, of Shepton Vets, was named British Veterinary Association Young Vet of the Year 2026 at the BVA Awards dinner at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole on Thursday, 11 June.

The award, supported by Zoetis, is now in its ninth year and recognises outstanding veterinary professionals in the early stages of their careers. Anna, who graduated from the University of Nottingham in 2022, joined Shepton Vets shortly after qualifying and has quickly built a reputation as one of the profession's rising names.

Her work has focused not only on clinical care, but on strengthening the relationship between farmers, vets and veterinary technicians. In a rural area where livestock health is central to many livelihoods, that kind of joined-up working can make a real difference on farms.

Anna has also led Shepton Vets' Youngstock Club, reshaping the programme to encourage closer teamwork on farms. The aim has been to improve youngstock management and animal welfare by bringing the people involved in livestock care into better conversation with one another.

After receiving the award, Anna 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."

Anna also congratulated the other finalists and award winners, saying it was a privilege to be part of "such a committed and passionate profession". She said she was looking forward to continuing to learn and making a positive difference for the farmers and animals she works with every day.

BVA president Dr Rob Williams said Anna was an outstanding veterinary surgeon whose clinical excellence and leadership were impressive so early in her career. He praised her dedication to developing her skills and strengthening collaboration with farmers, veterinary professionals and her own team.

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Dr Williams said: "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."

Luis Gomez, general manager UK at sponsor Zoetis, said Anna and the other finalists showed how passion and commitment can make a difference for animals in their care. He said Zoetis was proud to work with the BVA to highlight rising talent within the veterinary profession.

Anna's local MP, Sarah Dyke, also welcomed the award. She said: "Anna's BVA Young Vet of the Year award is thoroughly deserved and a testament to her dedication, expertise and commitment to animal welfare.

"As a farm vet serving our rural communities, she plays a vital role in supporting both livestock health and the farmers who work tirelessly to produce our food. I am delighted to see her hard work recognised at a national level."

The BVA Awards celebrate veterinary professionals who go above and beyond for animals, clients and colleagues. The awards also recognise work driving improvements in animal welfare, sustainability, leadership and veterinary science.

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