The British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) has recognised the outstanding veterinary achievements of eight exceptional equine veterinarians at this year’s BEVA Awards. The awards were formally presented at the BEVA Congress on Sept. 12.

The awards, of which there are seven categories, were established by BEVA, in conjunction with various sponsors, to reflect BEVA’s recognition of and support for significant accomplishments by BEVA members.

The BEVA Equine Welfare Award, sponsored by Blue Cross, was presented to AM “Mac” Johnston, OBE, BVM&S, DVetMed, FRSH, HonFRCVS, in recognition of his long-term dedication to the provision of advice and guidance for local people and vets in the Scottish Highlands. This in turn has had an important bearing on the improvement of the welfare of horses in the region.

Mac Johnston is well known to many vets. He was a lecturer in equine medicine at the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) and is a widely published author. Subsequently he became a renowned authority in public health. Although living in the Scottish Highlands and commuting to the RVC Mac provided much needed ‘expert’ help for local people and vets. Since retiring from the RVC he has worked in the community mentoring younger vets and dealing with awkward cases and clients