SUPERVET Ian Barclay is the tops as far as local animal-lovers are concerned - and he's got the title to prove it!

For the partner in Rutland House Veterinary Hospital, Cowley Hill Lane, St Helens has been voted 1996 Vet of the Year in a nationwide competition sponsored by Spillers petfood.

Ian, scooped the prestigious award after being nominated by some 27 local pet-owners who regularly entrust their furry friends to his care.

The awards, staged annually, aim to underline the important work carried out by the country's vets.

As winner, Ian will receive a full set of Encyclopaedia Britannica volumes, worth £1,800, plus a year's supply of Suprium pet food which he is donating to animal charities.

He will also attend a presentation lunch in London next month where he will receive a special certificate, and later this year will travel to Jerusalem to attend the World Small Animal Veterinary Association Congress.

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