FIVP would like to extend its warmest congratulations to the team at Westport Veterinary Clinic, which won top awards at this year’s Petplan Veterinary Awards 2025.
The ceremony, which took place as part of London Vet Show, saw Fiona Leathers win Practice Manager of the Year, while her daughter Hannah Reid was named Practice Support Staff of the Year.
Fiona Leathers – Practice Manager of the Year
Fiona joined Westport Veterinary Clinic in 2018, where she is now Director of Operations, and an RVN when time allows. Her work represents the core elements of independent practice, with decisions made “based on the patient and the people – not on profitability metrics someone in a different postcode invented”.
For Fiona, the award is a celebration of the work that has been put into building a practice culture built on clear communication, proper structure and supportive systems. She says that the freedom of independent practice has permitted her to make the changes her practice needs.
Speaking about her award, Fiona says, “I’ve never been prouder to receive an award. The Petplan Awards are like the Oscars for the veterinary industry.
“It’s validation for years of graft, late nights, and sheer bloody-minded determination to build a practice into something amazing, better and healthier than any other practice I’ve worked in. Knowing my team & my clients felt strongly enough to nominate me means more than the trophy itself.”
“Thank you for trusting me — with your work, your worries, and your loyalty. You’ve stuck with me through the messy, exhausting, occasionally bonkers days, and this award belongs to all of us.”
Hannah Reid – Practice Support Staff of the Year
Hannah, who is part of Westport Veterinary Clinic’s reception and admin team, was also announced as a winner.
Hannah has completed her British Veterinary Receptionist Association (BVRA) Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards, her Level 3 Certificate for Veterinary Receptionists, and is now working towards her Certificate in Veterinary Practice Management. Her win at the Petplan Veterinary Awards recognises her hard-working nature and her compassion for the pets that come into the practice.
As an independent practice, Hannah says that Westport Veterinary Clinic allows her to get to know the animals that come into the practice. Her close connection with clients builds trust, and she will always ask after their pet’s welfare and put them at ease.
Hannah said, “It means a lot – more than I think I can put into words. There are days working in veterinary practice that can be particularly hard and emotional. Being on the front of house most of the day, you have to hold it in and make sure clients and their pets coming in don’t know what’s happened before and that in that moment they’re your main priority.
“You are often the first face that clients see on what could maybe be the worst day in that person’s life and they’re full of worry and anxiety, so being there for both them and their pet during this moment can mean a lot to people – more than you potentially know. It’s not something that I think is going above and beyond in my job, I just take it as they need someone in that moment to be there for them.”
Taylor Vets – Practice of the Year (Runner-up)
FIVP would also like to congratulate Taylor Vets, which was a runner-up in the Practice of the Year category.
The practice was founded in 2023, when John Taylor opened a branch in Brackley. In 2025, they opened an additional practice in Middleton Cheney.
To be recognised at this level is a testament to the compassionate, client-focused care that Taylor Vets provides. As a finalist in this major awards ceremony, Taylor Vets highlights the very best in independent veterinary care.
Rita Dingwall, Chair of FIVP, said, “I was delighted to attend the Petplan Veterinary Awards at London Vet Show this year, where it was brilliant to see three people from two FIVP member practices up for such prestigious accolades.
“Congratulations to both Westport Veterinary Clinic and Taylor Vets for your recognition at this huge ceremony. This was a well-deserved celebration of the excellent service you provide pets and their owners.”
