Tributes pour in for former President and co-founder of BSAVA, Brian Singleton
27 September 2018
Tributes have been pouring in for the former President and co-founder of BSAVA, Brian Singleton, whose death was announced last week.
Dr William Brian Singleton CBE DVM&S FRCVS ARPS had an important impact on the companion animal profession and was instrumental in setting up the BSAVA in 1957, when he became the first Honorary Secretary. Brian subsequently became BSAVA President from 1960-61 and was elected to the RCVS Council in the same year. He then went on to become RCVS President from 1969-70.
In 1999 Brian Singleton opened BSAVA’s new purpose-built headquarters in Gloucester, Woodrow House. Following an extensive expansion and refurbishment of Woodrow House completed earlier this year, the new lecture theatre has been named the Singleton Theatre in recognition of Brian’s significant contribution to BSAVA.
Philip Lhermette, BSAVA President, said: “Brian’s contribution to the veterinary profession and in particular to the small animal veterinary sector should not be underestimated. He was a visionary figure who had a singular and profound influence on the way we practice medicine and surgery today. As a founder and past president of the BSAVA, he will be particularly missed by all of us at BSAVA, but his influence on the profession through the RCVS, WSAVA and AHT will continue for the good of animal welfare worldwide.”
Des Thompson, a former BSAVA President, said: “Brian was a truly wonderful gentleman, an ideal leader for the BSAVA as a forward-thinking, international organisation. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him in the profession.”
Harvey Locke, another former BSAVA President, described Brian Singleton as: “A true legend in our profession. He was such a modest man, but had immense talent and fondness for the profession that led to his illustrious career.”
Former BSAVA President, Tony Bradley, said: “It is so sad to lose an icon and one who has been so instrumental in shaping the BSAVA from the start.”
An article on Brian Singleton’s career, titled ‘A man of influence’ appeared in the February 2017 issue of Companion magazine, written by his friend and founder member of BSAVA, Bruce Vivash Jones.