"My thanks to all at Avon Lodge, who over the last 11 years have provided care and attention to my various pets."

Our team

We are a 22 strong team at Avon Lodge with many years of experience under our belts. Some members of staff have actually been here since the practice was first established over 30 years ago - a testament to what a great place it is to work.

Paul Vokes, the practice principal, has been a vet for over 20 years. He trained at the Royal Veterinary College in London and then headed back to his native Yorkshire to work in a number of small animal practices, before relocating to Bristol in 1999. He is married with two children and, when he can get away from Avon Lodge, he enjoys competing in triathlons and supporting his favourite football team, Leeds United.

Carolyn Woodthorpe, one of our vets at the Bishopsworth surgery, started at Avon Lodge back in July 1984 - it was only her second job after graduating from Bristol University.

Animal Nursing Assistant Jo Miller has also been at Avon Lodge for a long time, having joined the practice straight from school in 1984.

There are six veterinary surgeons in total. In addition to Paul and Carolyn, there is Tom Arnold, Marissa Evans, Keith Holton and Mo Pryce. Our nursing team includes Head Nurse Claire Williams (RVN), Lucy Ashton (RVN) Sam Elson (RVN), Nic Evans (RVN), Laura Knox (RVN) and Sammy Sellars (trainee VN). In addition there are animal nursing assistants Sophie Bartlett, Jo Miller, Katie Ryder and Laura Warren and receptionists Kate Hayter (Head Receptionist), Sarah Bird, Katy Donachie and Holly Edwards.

Paul Vokes