Blue Cross presents JA Wight award to Kate Kerr

The JA Wight Memorial Award, sponsored by The Blue Cross, has been awarded to Kate Kerr for her substantial contribution to animal welfare and veterinary education.

The award was presented by James Wight, in memory of his father Alf Wight, also known as veterinarian and author, James Herriot, at the British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) congress.

Kate is the chairman of the British Veterinary Association Animal Welfare Foundation (BVA AWF) and is committed to improving the welfare of animals through veterinary science education and debate. During Kate's chairmanship, the BVA AWF has supported educational leaflets for school children and the general public, provided an annual animal welfare debating forum and provided an annual case study forum for veterinary students.

John Rutter, chief executive of The Blue Cross, said: Kate has made a wonderful contribution towards animal welfare and education both of which are key to the aims of The Blue Cross. We are delighted that the BSAVA has chosen her as this year's recipient of the JA Wight Award for services to animal welfare.

Kate graduated from the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary studies in 1977 and spent ten years in mixed practice.  In 1991 she joined the State Veterinary Service where she has held various posts and provided support and advice on veterinary training.  Kate has specialised in animal welfare and has an RCVS diploma in welfare science, ethics and law. 

Media contact: Sam Cordwell
Direct line: 020 7932 4063
Mobile: 07860 719516

Notes to editors
The Blue Cross is Britain's pet charity, providing practical support, information and advice for pet and horse owners. Through its network of animal adoption centres it rehomes thousands of animals each year. Its hospitals provide veterinary care for the pets of people who cannot afford private vets' fees.

Photo available on request