NOMINATIONS for the Ceva Animal Welfare Awards must be in by Tuesday, December 31 – with the winners and runners up to be revealed at a ceremony in Birmingham on April 1, coinciding with the British Small Animal Veterinary Association congress .

The awards hope to recognise 'welfare heroes' from the farming, veterinary and charity industries. Countryfile presenter Matt Baker host the presentation ceremony, and will be involved once again in judging the awards, alongside head judge and retired veterinary surgeon, Chris Laurence MBE FRCVS, who puts his name to the Vet of the Year Award.

The categories are as follows:

• Vet of the Year;

• Vet Nurse of the Year;

• Charity Team of the Year;

• Charitable Contribution of the Year;

• International Cat Care Welfare of the Year;

• Farmer of the Year;

• Farm Educator of the Year;

• Outstanding Contribution to Animal Welfare;

• Outstanding International Contribution to Animal Welfare.

Those looking to nominate an individual or team should visit wwww.cevawelfare.com. Winners will be chosen based on the evidence provided in the original nomination.