Dexter Smith

Started the practice in 1985 in Stantonbury Local Centre. In 1996 aquired the Eaglestone practice of Dr Whitaker, and in May 2001 moved the Stantonbury practice to it's current location in Soskin Drive, Stantonbury Fields, near Bury Lawn School and the Stantonbury Stadium, off Monks Way. Only a few hundred yards from it's original location, but now in a purpose built surgery building.

Freddie Francis, Practice Manager

I joined Midsummer Veterinary Group in 2000. I did not come from a veterinary background but had a solid managerial background. My first challenge, within the practice, was to help oversee the building of the new surgery. Along side all the background administration work required in a veterinary practice I also write the quarterly newsletter, which has been going since 2000, client brochures and information brochures.

I have 2 Jack Russells, Hattie and Alice, Bazzo, a stray cat that was brought into the practice, and 4 rather large tortoises.

I really enjoy walking the dogs, no matter what the weather, I also enjoy the theatre and art galleries. I am an avid reader and still like doing my house work to loud rock music!

Tam Johnston RVN A1

I began working at Midsummer Veterinary Group as a work experience student in 1987. I then became the 'Saturday Girl' and 'Kennel Girl'. When I left school I joined the nursing team as a full time Nursing Assistant and went on to qualify as a Veterinary Nurse in 1998. With this qualification I became Head Nurse.

In 2007 I gained a City and Guilds Level 3 Certificate in assessing student veterinary nurses. I now have the responsibility of training and assessing the practical side of the student veterinary nurses here.

I am currently owned by a German Shorthaired Pointer called 'Millie' (pictured) who is 4 years old. I also have two elderly cats, 'Spike' and 'Peggy'.

In my spare time Millie and I try our best at dog agility and obedience training along with Milo and Angela.

Amy Ralph SVN

I joined the practice in February 2003 after working for 2 years as a Student Veterinary Nurse in another local practice.

Since then I have completed my Pet Plan Insurance Advisor course in 2003 and the Royal Canin Pet Health Counsellor in 2004. I also completed the Purina Nutritional training in 2006. In 2007 I started my Veterinary Nurse training again and am hoping to qualify in September 2009.

At home I live with my fiance, Alex, and our three pets. Our 5 year old Rottweiler, Holly (pictured with me), 6 year old cat, Izzy, and a rescue bunny called Beanie.

Outside of work I enjoy walking with Holly, swimming, going out and showing our car at various shows through the year.

Sarah Shipley SVN

I started work at Midsummer Veterinary Group in 1995 having previously worked as a 'Saturday Girl' and then receptionist at another Veterinary practice.

Over the past 15 years working as a nursing assistant I have completed various courses including Pet health Counsellor in March 2001, Proteus Foundation course in herpetology, Pet Insurance Advisor in May 2003 and Pro Plan Nutritional Advisor. I am currently undertaking my 2^nd year Veterinary Nurse training having passed the 1^st year in July 2008.

I have three cats, Spike, Boomer and Faith at home, all of which were rescues that have come into the practice over the years. I also have tropical fish and a gerbil, although my real interest lie with exotic pets such as lizards, snakes and parrots.

Outside of work I enjoy reading, going to the cinema and spending time with my daughter Georgina.

Angela Addison ANA SVN

I have worked with Dexter, at this practice, since we opened in 1985. In 1996 I became a Pet Health Counsellor and began taking nurse clinics. In 2007 I became a qualified Animal Nursing Assistant (ANA). I will shortly be taking my 1^st year exams towards becoming a qualified Veterinary Nurse. As well as my nursing role within the practice I am responsible for completing all the insurance claims and I am also a Pet Plan Insurance Advisor.

I work part time now and lead a busy home life with my husband and 2 children. We share our house with Milo, my choccie lab (left), Ruby, a Jack Russell Terrier Cross, Twist, a one eyed cat, 5 guinea pigs, 2 tortoises and a paradise fish.

I enjoy walking the dogs, doing agility with Milo, horse riding and gardening. I also enjoy helping out on a local farm at weekends.