DEDICATION to the job of bringing animals back to health has earned a major prize for a Stamford Bridge veterinary nurse.

Diana Stanton, head nurse at Battle Flatts Veterinary Clinic, was named PetPlan's veterinary nurse of the year at a gala dinner in Birmingham.

She was one of four finalists, and a panel of judges singled her out for her commitment to animals and the way she worked to raise the profile of veterinary nursing.

She was also praised for her commitment to expanding her own knowledge and skills. Diana is one of only a handful of veterinary nurses in the country to hold the diploma in advanced veterinary nursing (surgical).

In addition, she is an assessor in the Veterinary Nurse Training scheme and is also studying for her certificate in nursing exotics.

Diana, who has been a veterinary nurse for about 20 years, said it was the first time she had ever entered such a contest.

She said: "It is a great honour for me and is recognition of the job that I do. I do everything from looking after sick animals, to x-ray and reception work.

"I love my job and am delighted to receive such a prestigious award.

"I hope I can carry on the hard work and am currently studying for a certificate in nursing exotic animals."

Updated: 08:51 Monday, April 14, 2003