Meet The Team - George Vet Group : George Vet Group

Vet Team

Bea Yates

Bea joined the practice in 2010 from Liverpool University and became a director in 2022. She enjoys all aspects of cattle veterinary work, particularly the work on her regular farms. Bea is keen to drive client education and engagement, and runs many of our client talks and meetings. Bea runs our beef herd discussion group and has greatly enjoyed helping suckler herds improve health and fertility over the years. On the dairy side she is particularly interested in lameness control and relishes the opportunity to tackle chronically lame cows.

Outside of clinical work Bea is heavily involved in the day to day running and management of the farm team, mentoring many of the younger vets.

Bea Yates

BVSc MRCVS

Chris Warren

Chris joined the practice in 2012 after graduating from Nottingham University and became a director in 2022. Since joining the practice Chris has taken on the care of many dairy clients within the practice, helping them with routine fertility visits and proactive disease control. Chris achieved his certificate in advanced veterinary practice in 2020.

He has developed a keen interest in mastitis control, particularly using on farm data to create a “herd diagnosis” to help create targeted control plans. Our milking routine and parlour assessment service is also run by Chris, along with our genetic advancement services. Genomic testing through Clarifide plus and embryo services aim to help clients understand the genetics within their herds and how to help improve cow health and profitability through breeding. Chris also heads up our product and live animal export services.

He is involved with training courses for farmers and helps run our in house “clinical clubs” to ensure the practice stays up to date with the latest developments in the farming industry.

Chris Warren

BVMedSci (Hons) BVM BVS Cert AVP MRCVS

Gethin Roberts

Gethin joined The George Farm Vets in August 2007 and became a Director of The George Veterinary Group in 2019. He has a keen interest in herd health issues, particularly mastitis control and prevention. He is trained in the use of the DairyCo mastitis plan and has a proven track record in reducing clinical mastitis on farms. Gethin’s other areas of interest include infectious disease screening and eradication, which makes use of our regular bulk milk screening programmes which we introduced in 2008. Gethin also runs the practices’ Beef and Sheep discussion groups.

Gethin Roberts

BVSc Cert AVP (Cattle) MRCVS

Tom Oxtoby

A graduate of Bristol University, Tom joined the George Farm Vets in 2003 after 3 years of working in Mid Wales and is one of the Directors at The George. He is involved in all aspects of the farm animal practice, with particular interests in dairy cow nutrition and fertility. In 2008 he set up the George Farm Vets bull fertility testing service, using new techniques and equipment to carry out bull breeding soundness examinations on a pre/post-sale, pre-breeding season, post-poor performance and referral basis.

He has been a guest lecturer at the Royal Agricultural University, teaching practical courses in farm animal husbandry, health and behaviour, as well as leading many farmer training days on foot care, cattle handling, downer cow management and data analysis. Tom gained his Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons Certificate in Cattle Health and Production (CertCHP) in 2010 and received the runners up award in the 2013 Farm Business Awards dairy vet of the year. Tom is also involved with several large sheep flocks, providing routine health visits, flock health plans and ram fertility testing.

He is married to Catherine and outside work he tries to keep fit by playing football, digging his veg patch and running around after his two boys, Josh and Fred!

Tom Oxtoby

BVSc CertCHP MRCVS

Ben Sellick

Ben joined the practice in 2016 after graduating from The University of Liverpool, and became Veterinary Lead for Bovine Tuberculosis in 2022.

Ben thoroughly enjoys all parts of the job and looks after a number of our dairy, beef, sheep and smallholder clients. He has a particular interest in Bovine Tuberculosis and provides training and information to the team via our in-house clinical clubs and for our clients at regular meetings. He carries out visits for the TB Advisory Service and sits as a veterinary advisor on the National Farmers Union TB Advisory Group.

Outside of work Ben enjoys walking his dogs, Guinness and Nell, playing the odd game of rugby and lovingly breaking/repairing his old Land Rover!

Ben Sellick

BVSc MRCVS

Ed Bailey

Ed has worked at The George since 2008 and is one of our Clinical Directors on the team. He holds a certificate as an Advanced Practioner in Cattle Health and Production. His principal professional interest is in mobility, providing advice on preventive measures for reducing lameness in cattle and sheep. He is an approved trainer for the Register of Mobility Scorers. He is a DairyCo Mobility Mentor, and runs the foot trimming training courses and professional foot trimming services offered by the practice. He also enjoys preventive medicine in other areas and leads the practice policies on responsible use of medicines and parasite control.

Ed is a member of the AHDB Wiltshire Grazing Discussion Group, and has experience working with organic and conventional grazing herds helping to maximise grass productivity and milk from grazed grass.

Ed is also a keen fell runner and cyclist, racing all over the country whenever he can.

Ed Bailey

BVSc Cert AVP (Cattle) Cert AVP (Sheep) MRCVS

Kathryn Hart

Kat joined the George Farm Vets in September 2011 after studying at Bristol University Vet School, where she also achieved a degree in microbiology. Kat was raised in the cow shed of her family farm, Actonelm Holsteins over in Wales and she now farms alongside her husband and sons near Bristol, with a 50 cow herd of Angus cattle, a small flock of sheep and a farm shop.

Kat is interested in all areas of farm practice but her particular passion is dairy youngstock rearing. She launched The George Heifer Rearing Scheme in April 2012, was recently awarded an MSD Ruminant Bursary to investigate colostrum cleanliness and its effect on calf immunity and worked to create the Keeping Britain’s Youngstock Healthy Scheme. In 2016, Kat achieved her Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice (Cattle) and currently sits on the board of the British Cattle Veterinary Association (BCVA).

Kat’s role within the team focusses on research, the practical application of veterinary science to optimise youngstock health, producing for the processors, the role of Artificial Intelligence in farming and many other projects to ensure we deliver great advice and training to all our clients. Kat’s work is driven by knowledge which she applies practically to her own farm too, being that rare mix of active vet and active farmer.

Kathryn Hart

BVSc BSc Cert AVP (Cattle) MRCVS

Mike Sandiford

Mike graduated from Bristol University in 1996 where he was one of the vet students followed in the BBC documentary ‘Vets School’. After a year working in Botswana he joined the cattle practice in 1997 and was then featured in ‘Vets in Practice’. Mike became interested in using data to understand disease patterns on farm and developed the unique SCC Report used by our vets to identify and monitor the incidence of ‘New Infections’ in order to improve treatment success rates.

Following an increased involvement in herd fertility he studied for his Diploma in Bovine Reproduction (DBR) at Liverpool University graduating with distinction. His main interest is improving both cow welfare and farm profitability by identifying the causes of production disease and working with the whole farm team to implement solutions.

Outside of work he is a frustrated builder, digging out cellars and converting attics to make room for an ever increasing family of nine! To get away from it all he can occasionally be spotted on his bike down the by-ways of Wiltshire.

Mike Sandiford

BVSc DBR MRCVS

Sarah Smith

Sarah joined the practice in September 2013 after graduating from the Royal Veterinary College earlier that year. Growing up on a dairy and sheep farm in North Yorkshire, Sarah was always keen to specialise in cattle and sheep work. Despite originally planning to move back up to Yorkshire after a couple of years, Sarah settled in well to Wiltshire life and is still here! Having taken on the role of Lead Vet in Technical Training in 2022, her main area of interest is training, running regular AI and foot trimming courses for farmers.

Outside of work, Sarah also enjoys walking, going to the gym and socialising -ideally based in/around a pub!

Sarah Smith

BVetMed(Hons) MRCVS

William Sommerville

Will joined The George Farm Vets after graduating from Nottingham University in 2013. Over the years will has enjoyed all aspects of farm work, even TB testing on a sunny day. In September 2022 he took on the role a Lead Vet. In this role Will is aiming to expand our use of Mastitis data analysis on farms allowing us to respond sooner when issues arise and tailor mastitis control strategies to individual farms. Will is also developing our significant event reporting, this allows us to learn and improve when things do not go to plan.

Outside work Will spends his time tinkering with his classic mini and motorbikes using the mantra of ‘if it ain’t broke, fix it!’.

William Sommerville

BVMedSci BVM BVS MRCVS

Will Balhatchet

Will joined the practice in 2021 after qualifying from Surrey Vet School and became our lead in bovine fertility in 2024.

Will developed keen interests across most farming sectors stemming from family roots in beef and sheep farming, and after a prolonged (ongoing!) stint managing a Cornish dairy herd, ventured into veterinary medicine. He has taken a keen interest in proactive management with our dairy clients, seeing him titled as ‘Young Dairy Vet of the Year 2024’ at the annual Cream Awards. His dairy background gave him a particular focus towards data-led fertility management which has seen some large strides in farm improvements.

As the lead vet in fertility, Will has overseen the development of the practices’ Embryo Transfer Team, which now operates routine embryo collection and implantation services. His interests spread beyond the dairy sector and in the last few years Will has established AI programmes in our beef suckler herds to capture new, progressive opportunities for these businesses.

Outside of day-to-day vetting Will can be found playing rugby locally at Minety RFC, surfing and steering the helm at the local darts league keep him busy!

Will Balhatchet

BVMSci MRCVS

Zoe Williams

BVetMed MRCVS

Ellie Body

Hi, I’m Ellie and I’m originally from Kent. I graduated from Liverpool University in 2022. I’m particularly interested in parasite control, sustainability, and lameness. I really enjoy both sheep and cattle work, and I’m really looking forward to benefitting from he wealth of experience and caseloads at The George as well as building strong relationships with clients. In my free time I love cooking and baking and then taking long walks to burn it all off!

Ellie Body

BVSc MRCVS

Hannah Alexander

Hi I’m Hannah and I graduated from Edinburgh University in 2024. I really enjoy all aspects of farm vetting and currently am enjoying meeting all the clients out on farm. I can’t wait for spring to get stuck into lots of calving and lambings. Outside of work you’ll find me out for a walk or run with my spaniel Max ending at the pub with friends! I’m really looking forward to meeting you all.

Hannah Alexander

BVM&S MRCVS

Henry Potter

After graduating from the University of Liverpool in 2021, I spent four years working as a farm vet in Pembrokeshire, alongside some locum work in West Wales, before joining the George team. I love the variety that veterinary practice brings and look forward to working with our dairy, beef, sheep, and smallholder clients. Outside of work, I enjoy exploring the outdoors with my two Labradors, catching up with friends and surfing whenever I get the chance!

Henry Potter

BVSc MRCVS

Jessica Chambers

Hi, I’m Jess! Born and bred in Northern Ireland, I studied at the University of Surrey and, after graduating, moved to Malmesbury to join the team at the George. I enjoy all dairy, beef and sheep work and I’m really excited about the opportunities that the George has to offer.
Outside of work, I enjoy crossfit, playing a bit of rugby and I’m normally out and about enjoying the Wiltshire countryside. I look forward to meeting and working with you all!

Jessica Chambers

BVMSci MRCVS

Lucy Gleave

Hi, I am Lucy and I graduated from Liverpool in 2024. I come from a dairy farm in Cheshire so I am no stranger to dairy cows! I have a keen interest in lameness, herd health and nutrition. In my spare time you will find me out on runs and enjoy baking when I get the time. I am looking forward to getting out on farm and meeting you all!

Lucy Gleave

BVSc MRCVS

Megan McGrory

Hi, I’m Meg and I graduated from Cambridge University in 2025. I’m originally from Manchester and I’m looking forward to getting stuck in with all aspects of farm veterinary work. I’m grateful to be part of such an experienced team and can’t wait to get to know all of our clients out on farm.

Outside of work you’ll find me out on countryside walks exploring Wiltshire and Gloucestershire (ideally ending with a Sunday lunch!), in the gym, or spending quality time with friends and family.

Megan McGrory

BA VetMB MRCVS

Sophie Hicks

Hi, I’m Sophie! I graduated from the University of Surrey in 2025 and I’m originally from Cardiff, so I’m really enjoying getting to explore the English countryside.

Outside of work, I enjoy going to the gym, catching up with friends at the pub, and spending quality time with family. It’s been great getting out on farm, getting stuck in, and meeting everyone. I’m really looking forward to what’s to come!

Sophie Hicks

BVMSci MRCVS

Vet Techs

Our team of veterinary technicians are trained to the highest standards and can provide an affordable solution for stock management and on farm labour shortages. Our services cover freeze branding, friendly flies, mobility scorings, parasite packages as well as TB testing and APHA duties.

Bea Molyneux

Hi I’m Bea, a cattle enthusiast, with a specific interest in TB. I am currently training in all aspects of the Vet Tech role, as well as TB testing.

In my free time you’ll find me training with my horses or at home on our dairy farm and beef unit, as well as helping out local farmers.

Bea Molyneux

Veterinary Technician and ATT

Ellie Welch

Hi, I’m Ellie! I’m from Somerset and graduated from the Royal Agricultural University in 2024 with a BSc in Agriculture.

I’ve always been hands on with farm work and have a real passion for all livestock—especially cows, with a definite soft spot for calves. I joined the team at the George in November 2024, and I’m grateful to be part of such a supportive and knowledgeable practice.

Outside of work, you’ll usually find me milking cows, playing with my pet calves, exploring the countryside, enjoying all countryside sports, or relaxing in a good country pub—ideally with a roast dinner!

Ellie Welch

Veterinary Technician and ATT

Rosie Paines

Hi I’m Rosie, an avid goat keeper with an ever growing herd! When not caring for my goats you can find me on the rugby pitch or going off-roading. I also volunteer as a Beaver Scout Leader – hiking with 30 children through the countryside isn’t easy!! I also continue to help out on a dairy farm in my spare time, which is rewarding. If I ever have a spare 5 minutes you can find me in the pub with a cider in hand catching up with friends.

Rosie Paines

Veterinary Technician and ATT

Toby Sandmann

I joined the George Farm vets in 2022 as an approved TB tester after nearly 18 years working in zoos. Alongside zookeeping, I also worked for friends on their farms as well as working on my own small farm, building up a herd of Shetland Cattle. On my days off you will find me visiting zoos, on the farm or looking after my vast array of animals at home.

I look forward to meeting our farm clients to help tackle TB.

Toby Sandmann

Veterinary Technician and ATT

Zoe Korner

Hi I’m Zoe. I have a true passion for all animals, especially cattle. I have worked on various farms and really enjoy TB testing. When I’m not on a farm you can find me enjoying walks with my dogs, riding my horses or out with my friends. I’m a sociable friendly person who likes to crack on and get the job done!

Zoe Korner

ATT

Support Team

Bridget Banham

Bridget joined the team in 2012 and heads up the pharmacy team, taking in deliveries, placing orders and dispensing from the pharmacy to our eight collection points. She’s always smiling; nothing is too much trouble for Bridget. Having been around farms all her life, she enjoys chewing the cud with our clients when they have time to drop by.

Bridget Banham

Pharmacy

Catherine Venn

I joined the practice in 2023 as New Project Lead and Farm Office Administrator.

After a 10-year career within the Royal Air Force I spent the next 15 years running my own business whilst raising my family. I eventually plucked up the courage to work towards my dream job of working with animals and went back to university in 2016, graduating from Royal Agricultural University with a BSc Hons in Animal Science and Management. During my studies and post-graduation, I have worked with a broad range of animals, from exotics, wildlife rescue, small animal care and farm.

I look forward to the new challenges this role offers and helping to build new projects within the practice.

Catherine Venn

Administrator & New Projects Lead

Debbie Crisp

Driver

Emma-Fleur Lane

Emma started with the practice in June 2009. Based in the Farm Office she takes the daily calls, helping clients book their TB tests, plus assisting in organising all the vets with their daily rounds.

Emma used to compete in eventing, but now takes a back seat judging at horse trials most weekends and indeed included the London Olympics in 2012 where Emma was judging at one of the water jumps. Emma also breeds and shows various bantam breeds of poultry as well as running around after her two border collies.

Emma-Fleur Lane

Administrator

Kirsty Reeves

Having spent 6 years performing roles between the Pig Dispensary and our on-site laboratory, Kirsty moved to a full time role to assist all departments in our main Dispensary in Feb 2023.

Kirsty Reeves

Pharmacy

Phill Watts

Phill joined the business early in 2022 after 28 years at Honda UK. He knows his way around a vehicle and is responsible for getting medicines out to our branch clinics for clients to collect for all species. Both he and David enjoy the time out travelling through the wonderful countryside to our clinics across Wiltshire and Gloucestershire as well as dropping into Bristol. Our drivers cover many miles during the day and the routes are never the same depending on what’s required and also road closures!

Phill Watts

Driver

Shaun Poole

Shaun delivers for our clients and our teams ensuring medication requests reach our clinic locations in a timely manner as well as daily visits to our many farm collection points across Gloucestershire and Wiltshire.

Shaun Poole

Driver

Simon Morris

Simon is one of our team of 4 drivers who between them ensure medication requests reach our clinic locations in a timely manner as well as making daily visits to our many farm collection points across Gloucestershire and Wiltshire.

Simon Morris

Driver

Sitara Smith

Sitara runs our in-house laboratory at The George. Whether it’s assisting our nurses with pre-anaesthetic checks for hospital admissions or running tests on samples for our ambulatory vets she is never without something to do!

Sitara Smith

Lab Technician

Val Hopes

Val joined the practice in 1987 working within the small animal team. Having established her role within this department she moved to the fast expanding farm team as the Farm Administrator, involved in all aspects of the day-to-day running of this department. She enjoys this role as her family have historically worked within the farming industry. Her interests include walking, riding and an active support for whale and dolphin conservation.

Val Hopes

Administrator