Petplan has announced the finalists for the 2012 Petplan Veterinary Awards. 

According to the company, the awards have been more popular than ever, with over 3,000 nominations submitted for exceptional veterinary staff across the UK.                                                                        

The finalists for each of the categories are:

Vet of the Year
Zaila Dunbar, Queens Park Veterinary Practice - London
Tony Barnes, Manor Veterinary Clinic - Folkestone
Mark Taylor, Feldon Veterinary Centre - Bedworth 

Vet Nurse of the Year
Lucy Kells, The Wildlife Aid Foundation - Leatherhead
Rachael Harris, Elms Veterinary Surgery - Monmouth
Sarah Algar, Brentknoll Veterinary Centre Ltd - Worcester

Support Staff of the Year
Sarah Bowler, Holly House Veterinary Surgery - Knutsford
Jane Wyatt, George Hunt and Son - Poynton
Cathy Campbell, Haygate Veterinary Centre - Telford

Vet Practice of the Year
Eastcott Veterinary Clinic and Hospital - Swindon
Prince Bishop Veterinary Hospital - County Durham
Broadleys Veterinary Hospital - Stirling

Simon Masding, Petplan's Head of Sales and Partnerships, said: "The Vet of the Year Awards are the highlight of our Petplan calendar because they recognise the dedication that the veterinary industry puts into providing the nation's pets with the best possible treatment. Each year the nominations reach an even higher standard and we're delighted with this year's finalists. At Petplan we work with more veterinary professionals than any other insurance provider and it is through these awards that we thank the profession on behalf of UK pet owners."

Petplan has also announced that comedian Seann Walsh, known for his appearances on shows like Mock the Week and Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow, will be this year's compère for the Vet of the Year Awards. Following in the footsteps of previous compères Michael McIntyre, Alistair McGowan, Frankie Boyle and Jason Manford; he will be entertaining this year's guests on the 12th April at Birmingham Town Hall.

For further information visit www.petplan.co.uk/vetawards/

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vet nurses.