This award is presented annually by the Blue Cross Animal Welfare Charity and takes the form of an inscribed figure and a cheque. The award celebrates the memory of Alf Wight, otherwise known to millions as the fictitious James Herriot. Veterinarians on the RCVS register are eligible as recipients of the award which is presented to recognise outstanding contributions to the welfare of companion animals.

Lord Soulsby of Swaffham Prior was the well deserved recipient of the 2009 award for his outstanding services to the profession and in particular his services to animal welfare through his contribution to the Parliamentary Companion Animal Welfare Council (CAWC). Lord Soulsby is a distinguished microbiologist and parasitologist, who has been a professor at many notable institutes, including serving as Professor of Animal Pathology at the University of Cambridge from 1978 to 1993. Made an Honorary Member of the BSAVA in 1999, Lord Soulsby has also served as President of numerous institutes including the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (1984–1985), the Royal Society of Medicine (1998–2000), the Royal Institute of Public Health (2004–2008) and the Royal Society of Public Health (2008–). Lord Soulsby has been advisor and consultant to various national and international organizations and Governments. He has published numerous books, articles and journals and was elevated to the peerage in 1990.

As an alternative to the online form, you can make 2010 nominations for this award by downloading a nomination form here. Once completed, nomination forms must be signed by a member of the Association and must be returned to the Honorary Secretary at Woodrow House, by the 13th November 2010. If you have any further enquiries about the BSAVA Awards, please contact the Honorary Secretary, Alison Speakman, email secretary@bsava.com.