Bridgnorth vet scoops photo prize with wild horses on the Long Mynd
Bridgnorth vet Stephen Ashman has been won a prestigious national competition – for animal photography.
His image of wild ponies on the Long Mynd in Shropshire has seen him named British Veterinary Association Veterinary Photographer of the Year.
Stephen spends his working day at the PDSA’s Wolverhampton hospital.
But in his spare time he loves nothing more than to grab his camera and take to the Shropshire Hills.
More than 500 vets entered the competition from across the UK.
Stephen won in the All Creatures Great and Small category with his image of the ponies.
The winner in the Human Bond Category was another Midland vet, Peter Myatt, who graduated from Nottingham University this summer.
Stephen said, “I had a great day out photographing these wild grey ponies on a similarly grey January day on the Long Mynd.
"I was simply out on a photo walk to take in the scenery and wildlife, look for a good shot and get a breath of fresh air. I’m chuffed that the judges have selected it as a category winner”
'Everyone needs a puppy cuddle'
Peter sent in a picture of a laid-back 10-week-old cocker spaniel puppy lounging contentedly on Peter’s lap. The vet, who recently started work at a Bicester-based practice, said: “The puppy was in to have her second vaccinations and a general health check after she had been with her new family for a week, and she was on my lap so that I could calm her, examine her, and socialise her.
"Working in the veterinary world is by no means easy, which is why moments like this are so important. Everyone needs a puppy cuddle.”
British Veterinary Association President John Fishwick said: “We received an impressive number of outstanding photos for the third year in a row, and the judging panel truly had their work cut out. Their vet’s-eye-view of the wonderful and varied facets of veterinary work as well as interaction with the fascinating world of wild animals is a testament to our colleagues’ skills both within and outside practice.
“I would like to offer my congratulations to the winning and commended photographers, and to those who missed out, know that it was a very tough decision.”
Peter and Stephen each receive £250 worth of gift vouchers from John Lewis & Partners. Their winning images alongside the commended photographs are on show at an exhibition at BVA’s Members’ Day in York this week.
