David Yates has worked at the RSPCA’s Greater Manchester Animal Hospital for over 20 years.

Honoured for his hard work in supporting veterinary staff

An RSPCA hospital director won 'Charity Professional of the Year' at the Ceva awards for animal welfare on Wednesday (April 6).

David Yates has worked at the RSPCA’s Greater Manchester Animal Hospital for over 20 years.

As well as supporting and mentoring veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses who work at the hospital, David also helps the next generation of vets by offering hands-on experience to over 150 veterinary students a year.

The students attend the hospital for two weeks at a time and can see first-hand the difficulties that may arise at a charity practice.

Furthermore, David’s dedication to animal welfare has also seen him build relationships with other charities - particularly the Cat Population Control Group where he has overseen new approaches to cat neutering.

Commenting on his award, David said: “I am proud to have won this award and proud to have been able to highlight the work of the RSPCA who are at the forefront of animal welfare.

“Being part of a charity has allowed me to provide support to those members of the public who need it most. It is not an easy job but being surrounded by such a supportive team and knowing the animals have been improved make everything worthwhile.”

The Ceva Animal Welfare Awards took place at the Burlington Hotel, Brimingham, ahead of BSAVA Congress 2016.

Judges included the RSPCA's chief veterinary officer James Yeates and RVC expert Anthony Hunter Andrews.