This award is presented annually by the BSAVA as the primary recognition for outstanding contributions to the advancement of small animal veterinary nursing.
2026 Winner
Lyndsay Hughes RVN NCert SAN AVLM
The BSAVA Veterinary Nurse Award is presented to Lyndsay Hughes for the exceptional contribution she has made to the veterinary nursing profession. As BVNA President in 2023-25, Lyndsay played a pivotal role during a transformative time for the profession, representing the association and veterinary nurses across the UK with dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment through countless online and in-person meetings. Lyndsay is also a Small Animal Director at Drove Veterinary Hospital in Wiltshire. As the only veterinary nurse on the hospital board, she brings a vital nursing perspective to strategic decision-making, clinical governance, operational development and team progression.
Full Biography
Lyndsay Hughes is a Registered Veterinary Nurse who has worked in clinical practice since 2002. She has held a variety of nursing and operational management roles throughout her career and has been a Small Animal Director at Drove Veterinary Hospital in Wiltshire since 2019. As the only veterinary nurse on the hospital board, Lyndsay brings a vital nursing perspective to strategic decision-making, clinical governance, operational development and team progression.
A committed advocate for the profession, Lyndsay has served on the British Veterinary Nursing Association Council (BVNA) since 2020. She stood as BVNA President from 2023 to 2025 and currently serves as Senior Vice President. Her presidential theme, Progression, championed clearer career pathways, stronger leadership opportunities and better utilisation of veterinary nurses within practice, helping to push the conversation about the future role of the RVN onto a national stage.
Alongside her clinical and leadership responsibilities, Lyndsay contributes widely to the advancement of the profession. She has completed the Edward Jenner Leadership Programme and was awarded the Veterinary Leadership and Management Award with Distinction. She guest lectures on business and management for veterinary nurses, acts as an OSCE examiner, and continues her professional development through further study in HR and leadership.
Lyndsay is passionate about building confident, capable nursing teams and raising the profile, influence and recognition of the veterinary nursing profession at every level.