SQPs from across the UK have been recognised for their outstanding professionalism and commitment to their training at the inaugural National SQP Awards, which were held yesterday afternoon in London.

Georgina Beer, who works for Countrywide Farmers in Devon, was named National SQP of the Year, and was also named Farm SQP of the Year.

Emily Knight, from Pets at Home in Blackwood, Gwent, scooped the award for Companion SQP of the Year; the Equine SQP of the Year was Chloe Dix, the owner of Target Worm Counts.

Alice Geddes from Synergy Farm Health was presented with the award for Veterinary SQP of the Year, while she also scooped the Mastermind Award.

Megan Thomas from Carrs Billington in Settle won the Newly Qualified SQP of the Year award.

In the retail categories, Thirsk-based Green Farm Supplies was named Independent Store of the Year, while Mole Country Stores in Fauld was named Multiple Store of the Year. Chris Jeffrey, the owner of Green Farm Supplies, scooped the Store Manger of the Year.

The Award for Contribution to the Industry was presented to AMTRA stalwart Mick Hempstead and Animax, the market leader in trace element supplementation for livestock, was awarded the Trade Supplier of the Year title.

The National SQP Awards was hosted by Alan Dedicoat, who gave guests an insight into his work as the “Voice of the Balls” on the National Lottery TV show and as the announcer on Strictly Come Dancing.

Simon King, OvertheCounter’s editor, said: “The first National SQP Awards have been a fantastic success and I am delighted that SQPs from across the UK have been recognised for their commitment to their customers.

“I’d like to thank the sponsors that supported the National SQP Awards and I’d also like to encourage even more SQPs to enter the 2018 awards programme. I know from speaking to some of the winners how proud they were to win an award and I firmly believe that winners should shout about their win in their community as winning a national award can drive a business forward. Well done to all the winners and those who were also highly commended.”