HIGHLY-respected and multi-award-winning Cumbrian vets, Colin and Barbara Lindsay, have announced they are to hang up their stethoscopes this month.

With joint careers spanning 44 years, the husband-and-wife, have decided to step back from clinical practice to take time out to explore new adventures.

Both are senior clinicians and well-known figures in animal care and welfare within the areas they operate and practice, the rural communities of Brampton and Hexham.

In 1991, two years after qualifying from Edinburgh University, Colin joined what was then a four-vet practice based in Brampton.

Over the years, the business has grown, evolved and merged with the Longtown practice.

Today, Capontree Vets has veterinary centres in Brampton, Haltwhistle and Longtown and employs 13 vets and some 16 support staff.

Barbara, joined the Capontree companion animal team in 2001, after working in a number of small animal practices and referral centres across the country.

She then became a director of the business in 2006.

Colin said: “Barbara and myself would like to thank all of our clients, who have supported us throughout our careers. It really has been a great privilege to work in this progressive industry, and in such a beautiful part of the country.”

During his career, Colin has won several awards, including ‘Pet Plan Vet of the Year’ in 2001 and ‘Dairy Vet of the Year’ in 2013.

Alongside his veterinary practice work, he has also been involved with various research companies, developing new diagnostics, vaccines, and providing instruction to vets in the UK, Ireland and Europe.

In addition, Colin runs Veterinary Consultancy Limited, providing professional, independent and impartial advice across a range of veterinary issues.

Their decision is being regarded as the end of an era within the veterinary sector, but both say they are ready to take time out after 29 years of clinical practice, and latterly supporting Colin's family through difficult times.