AN evening of celebration and thanks for more than 40 years of hard work and dedication by a local veterinary surgeon saw more than 150 people attend.

The event had been organised by St Boniface Vets to pay tribute to William Sylvester McElligott, known to most as Sylvie.

Sylvie explained: “I have been a veterinary surgeon for 54-and-a-half years and sold the practice to Tony Kemmish and his wife Marie and their partners in 1999.

“I am 84 now and worked until the last Friday before Christmas.

“For the last few years I worked just two days a week.

“Tonight the practice has kindly invited clients and their families to this farewell event for which I am very grateful.

“I qualified as a vet when I was 29, later than most as I was in the Irish Army Air Corps before that.

“I am delighted that Tony, Marie and their partners have been able to keep the practice totally independent, not part of a big group, although they are part of a co-operative, which is a good thing.”

Tony Kemmish said: “We all know the trust, dedication, hard work and personal sacrifice it takes to be part of our community. No-one personifies that more than Sylvie.

“I had the fortune to work with Sylvie from 23 years ago.

“Sylvie was our mentor at St Boniface Vets, he taught us so much.

“He was the master of the art of reassurance and while he looked after flocks, herds, stables and businesses, most of all you have taken care of many people in your life.”

Tony concluded: “We wish him all the best in his retirement. A truly remarkable vet with many a story to tell.”

Sylvie received other speeches of congratulations and thanks as well as many gifts and cards during the evening, which was held at the Waie Inn, Zeal Monachorum.