Mum-of-three Lisa Nix, a nurse at Holmefield Veterinary Clinic, received her accolade at the British Veterinary Nursing Association's annual congress in Kettering on October 10.

The 39-year-old, of Meadow Drive, Thorpe Willoughby, said she was proud of her achievement as it recognised her commitment to her craft.

She added: "I didn't think I had a chance of winning this so it's a real boost. This means a lot to me as it places me at the top of my profession."

Adrian Pratt, the veterinary affairs manager at Hill's Pet Nutrition, the company that hosted the event, said: "Lisa has shown how one person can make a huge difference to the lives of hundreds of people and their pets.

"We are absolutely delighted to be able to formally recognise what she has achieved. Our heartfelt congratulations go to Lisa."

To achieve her award Lisa helped local cat shelters, rehabilitated feral kittens in her home and fostered cats, dogs, hamsters and even a litter of baby voles, in addition to her daily duties.