Former British Veterinary Association president Simon Doherty has died, aged 49.

The news of his death was announced in a statement on the BVA’s website, which described him as “an inspiration to everyone he met and who worked alongside him”.

The association’s current president, Elizabeth Mullineaux, said: “He was a truly inspirational vet and a really valued friend.

“His contribution to BVA, the veterinary profession and animal welfare can’t be overstated and I’m so pleased that his passion and dedication were recognised internationally this year through World Veterinary Association and FVE awards.”

She added: “Reflecting with colleagues who knew him, what comes through time and again was Simon’s generosity with his time and expertise, always ready to share and support colleagues around him, particularly young and aspiring vets. We will miss his warmth, his wisdom and his humour.

“While it’s dreadfully sad to say goodbye, we will remember and celebrate his life, his work and his outstanding contribution to the world – he leaves it a better place.”

A 2000 graduate from the University of Glasgow, Prof Doherty led the BVA in 2018-19, having earlier served as president of its Northern Ireland branch and the North of Ireland Veterinary Association.

A leading advocate of sustainability and one health approaches, he later chaired the BVA’s working group on sustainable finfish aquaculture and the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe’s (FVE) working group on veterinary public health and sustainability.

In 2020, he was made a fellow of the RCVS.