A VETERINARY nurse, based in Winchester, has been saluted as Britain's best.

Kimberley Forshaw received the accolade at the Petplan Veterinary Awards, held in Birmingham.

Speaking earlier this week, the 27-year-old, who lives in Sutton Scotney, indicated that it was a night to remember.

"I'm absolutely delighted. It was really exciting to be there and it was a really good evening."

She was nominated by Bridget Drew, the former director of Mildmay Veterinary Centre, at Easton Lane, Winnall.

Kimberley started work there six years ago when she joined the profession.

Currently the centre's deputy head nurse, her job includes offering assistance in the operating theatre.

She also handles some more light-hearted activities, such as puppy parties and weight-loss classes for "portly pets".

She added that she liked every aspect of her job - "except for the bites and scratches".

In addition to her regular work, Kimberley has also raised money for animal welfare groups.

By marketing a calendar in 2003 and 2004 and organising a raffle last year, she generated £4,500.

The money was given to the Animal Health Trust and the Hampshire Technical Rescue Unit, which has several rescue dogs.

Her charity success, coupled with her efforts at work, convinced judges that she deserved recognition.

From a total of nearly 100 nominations, the firm decided that Kimberley was the nation's best.

Fiona Pinkney, from Petplan, added: "Kimberley has shown great commitment to her clients and colleagues.

"Her professionalism when dealing with pets and their owners is remarkable. We think she thoroughly deserves the honour."