Princess Anne impressed by new Wirral vet service

May 27 2009 by Matt Hurst, Birkenhead News

Princess Anne impressed by veterinary facilities during visit to Wirral

THE first £1.7m phase of a development project at Wirral’s Leahurst Veterinary Centre was officially opened by HRH The Princess Royal on Thursday.

The Queen's daughter swept through the sunshine in a helicopter, before being escorted to the new Philip Leverhulme Equine Hospital, a building that marks a significant step forward for a facility already considered among the world's best.

She was introduced to Liverpool University vice chancellor, Sir Howard Mewby and Professor of Equine Studies, Chris Proudman.

Professor Proudman said: “We’re delighted she has offered to come and open the first phase of the hospital development for us.”

The first phase has seen the completed reception area spring up, as well as a new entrance yard and MRI facility.

Princess Anne was then introduced to fourth year veterinary students, who learn their trade under the watchful eye of Leahurst's Washington-born veterinary surgeon, Ellen Singer.

One person who benefited directly from Ellen's expertise is Louise Fiennes, wife of explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes.

She was among the guests and described the “loving care” her own horse Cumbria Zarife received when diagnosed with colic.

Mrs Fiennes said: “Leahurst is fantastic, both in respect of how it treats horses and successfully makes them well, and in terms of the rehabilitation after the operation.”

Following a brief tour of the new facilities, Princess Anne unveiled the plaque and said: “It’s important knowledge is available to all those who treat animals.

“We all need to work as well as possible to increase the knowledge and make sure it’s available.”