Equestrian company nominated for national accolade.
Westgate Labs swap their Northumberland HQ for the House of Commons on Friday as double nominees for National SQP Awards.
The parasite control specialist, which offers a worm egg count postal service, is down to the final two in the Special Achievement Award - recognising those who have gone above and beyond for animal health through the pandemic.
And director Claire Shand – a regular contributor to ETN’s AMTRA accredited CPD features - is a finalist for Equine SQP of the Year.
The winners, representing all sectors of animal health, will be announced at a ceremony in the House of Commons, on 5 November.
As director of marketing and communications at Westgate Labs being qualified as an SQP (or RAMA) to prescribe and supply certain categories of animal medicines, Claire is regularly asked to write and present on best practice worming.
“Giving reliable, independent, easy to understand advice makes it easier for people to draw on our knowledge and keep their horses healthy,” she says.
Working through turbulent times
On being shortlisted for the Special Achievement Award, Claire adds: “We're especially proud of this nomination.
“[During Covid lockdown] the team here at Westgate Labs tested around the clock and over the weekends to retain as seamless a service as possible and the same level of outstanding customer service to help support our customers. This despite postal delays and fewer technicians due to shielding.
“As well as our own clients, we took on testing for other labs and many vets, who were closed for routine work in the early months of the pandemic, and horse sanctuaries.
“Being short-listed recognises the amazing dedication of our staff in the face of such a difficult time for everyone.”
Image by Andy Reed
