What Fun It Is Being A Vet!

Neville Turner shares stories of his life in the Durham Dales with Polly Pullar.

- Polly Pullar

DURING the course of my work, I meet some extraordinary, colourful characters, and some find a very special place in my heart; none more so than the multi-talented, now retired, Dales vet, Neville Turner.

Neville is a man of many talents. His reputation as one of the true vets of the old school is legendary. I know this first hand for I used to venture to the annual Dales Pony Breed Show held at Barnard Castle, the attractive town where Neville had his practice.

When I mentioned him, those I spoke to had nothing but praise for their excellent, dedicated vet.

Neville is also a gifted public speaker, travels globally giving illustrated talks aboard cruise ships, and is a valued member of the Middleton and Teesdale Prize Silver Band.

Travelling around the Durham Dales throughout the seasons in the course of his work has culminated in a unique photographic record of this wild part of northern England, as well as a wealth of material for features, and several books, including his first glorious tome, “Hill Farmer: A Working Year On The Fells”.

His latest, “The Dales Vet: A Working Life In Pictures”, has been 30 years in the making, and is a wonderful celebration of a life well spent, an enchanting and moving record that is entertaining, humorous, poignant, and informative in equal measure.