This award is presented to the author of the most valuable article published in the Journal of Small Animal Practice by a small animal practitioner during the 12 months ending 31st October.  The aim of the award is to encourage the publication of high quality research performed by a small animal practitioner. To qualify for this award, the first author of the paper should be a practitioner working outside of academia.  The award will be presented to the first author, regardless of who the other authors are.  Priority will be given to first opinion practitioners. Priority will be given to original papers, but case series may be considered.  The award takes the form of textbooks and a cheque.