Tributes after a popular vet dies (From Worcester News)

Tributes after a popular vet dies

11:30pm Friday 10th February 2012 in News

A RETIRED vet who founded the Vale Vete-rinary Group in Kidderminster and Areley Kings has died, aged 92.

Roger Vale set up his own practice in 1947 at Kingston House, Areley Kings, where he had gained his first experience as a vet eight years before.

Mr Vale bought the practice from the former owner, who had converted two loose boxes and other buildings into a veterinary practice after serving in the Royal Navy.

Mr Vale, who died on February 1, built up the practice which at first concentrated mainly on farm animals.

As the practice continued to grow, Kingston House was sold and a new surgery built next to it. That surgery was also sold and in 1960 a new one was built on the site of the former Areley Kings fire station.

The name was changed to the Vale Veterinary Group in 1999 and other surgeries were opened in Kidderminster and Bewdley. Mr Vale sold the practice in 1974 to the remaining partners.

The father of three was a yachtsman at Lenchford Sailing Club and went on to be a founder member of Chelmarsh Sailing Club. He also had a passion for horses and was involved with Herefordshire Riding for the Disabled and met Princess Anne, who was a patron of the charity. Mr Vale’s interests also included cine-photography and he made a film called A Day in the Life of a Vet.

His son David said: “He had a very good sense of humour and much of the film reflected some of the humorous side of veterinary practices – very much like James Herriott’s All Creatures Great and Small TV series.

“He will be sadly missed by his family and the many, many friends he has retained over the years.”

Mr Vale has lived in Presteigne, Wales, for the last seven years.

His funeral will be held next Wednesday at Hereford Crematorium at 12.45pm.