THE JOURNAL'S team of local vets are top dogs!

And Vetcare -- based in Leigh, Hindley and Bolton -- are only the third veterinary practice in the country to gain the prestigious Investors in People award.

Celebrating the award, practice manager Julie Maddrell said: "Time and committment has been put in by all members of the team."

As part of the IIP process, a new practice has been set -up in Hindley and the other two have been overhauled and up-graded.

The new facilities at Leigh will be open to the public on Sunday, May 21, (1.30-4pm) when you can see inside the busy workings of a veterinary practice which is now veterinary nurse training centre.

Julie added: "The IIP standard encompasses all areas of business planning, personnel managment, staff development and communications. "We have spent the last 18 months supporting all of our staff to assess the part they play in the very high quality service that we offer.

"Alongside our building projects it has sometimes seemed like an uphill struggle.

"But now we can see that he committment and planning required is paying dividends daily. We are more organised, staff motivation is excellent and most inportantly we know that we are fully equipped to give 110% to all our clients.

"I hope other vets in the area will be encouraged to follow our example.

Pictured: Staff at Vetcare celebrating their IIP award.Picture: Colin LYNE