THE Avenue Veterinary Centre, in Malvern, has been named the first winner of a nationwide business challenge.

The Intervet Lifelong Challenge, in conjunction with Pinnacle Pet Healthcare, will be awarded quarterly to practices showing an outstanding commitment to educating pet owners on the importance of animal health insurance.

The surgery wins £500 towards staff training and £250 towards a social event for the practice.

Vets at the practice are Willie Campbell, Pete Creber and Clare Jonson.

Mr Campbell said: "We're all pleasantly surprised at receiving this prize. While we consider pet health insurance to be a very sensible precaution, it's an issue we tend to leave to our clients to make their own minds up on."