New for 2026, this award is to recognise individuals (vets or nurses) who have had a significant impact upon general practice and/or their community; be that local, national, or professional.
2026 Winner
Ian Millar BVMS CertVOphthal MRCVS
New for 2026, the Des Thompson Award goes to Ian Millar in recognition of his pioneering contribution to veterinary ophthalmology and his exceptional service to the Northern Irish veterinary community for more than forty years. He was the first vet in the region to gain a certificate in ophthalmology, and later the first BVA Eye Scheme panellist, shaping the development of specialist eye care. He currently works part time and is keen to continue letting vets and the public know the possibilities in the treatment of eye conditions and control of inherited disease.
Full Biography
Ian qualified from Glasgow University in 1976 and moved to mixed practice in Northern Ireland shortly after.
He joined the Earlswood team in 1980 and developed a keen interest in ophthalmology in this small-animal referral and general-practice environment. He achieved his certificate in Veterinary Ophthalmology in 1984 and, in 1985, joined the BVA/KC/ISDS eye panel.
With 40+ years of ophthalmology under his belt, he, like all qualified veterinary ophthalmologists, is keen to continue letting vets and the public know the possibilities in the treatment of eye conditions and control of inherited disease.
Panel work and clinical work are still as important as ever, and though working part-time, he is still busy.