A DUDLEY vets is celebrating after it's boss won Practice Manager of the Year 2015 at the Petplan Veterinary Awards.

Val Marsh has worked at Blacks, Hall Street, for 15 years and has been recognised for her outstanding professionalism.

The awards, which were held at Birmingham Town Hall, shine a light on the UK’s outstanding vets, vet nurses, practices, practice managers and vet support staff who keep the nation’s pets happy and healthy.

Mrs Marsh has taken charge of many projects at Blacks Vets surgery, including driving Blacks towards becoming an Accredited Veterinary Hospital, and overseeing the management of their five branches and over 80 staff.

She is also involved in recruiting employees at the surgery, and works tirelessly to ensure that the best candidates are selected, in order to deliver only the best care to local pets and clients around the clock.

She said: “This is the most amazing thing that could have happened – I can’t believe it.

"My winning this award is down to the team at the surgery, they’re an incredible bunch, and it’s so brilliant for us all to have this award to display.”

Petplan's head of marketing, Isabella Von Mesterhazy, added: “The Veterinary Awards are Petplan’s way of saying a huge ‘thank you’ to those members of the veterinary profession who care for the nation’s pets with such dedication.

"Whether it’s for a routine check-up, or to treat a more unexpected illness, these committed individuals and teams really are irreplaceable, and it’s wonderful to be able to thank them in such a public way through these awards.

She added: "We’re elated to be able to announce our deserving winners, and congratulate them on their fantastic achievement!”

For further information on the awards and each of the winners please visit: www.petplanvet.co.uk/vetawards.