A NORTHERN animal medicines adviser has won the overall prize at a national awards ceremony.

Stephanie Batehup, of Carrs Billington in Longtown, Cumbria, was named as overall winner and recipient of the AHDA Cup, during the annual AHDA (Animal Health Distributors Association) conference in Birmingham.

She also collected the Simon Fleet Cup and a cheque for £300 as the top advisor covering all species. She was presented with the top prize by Andrew Wylie of sponsors Zoetis.

The presentation took place as the country’s leading new registered animal medicines advisors (also known as SQPs) were recognised at the ceremony last month.

Stephanie’s passion for producing the best stock possible inspired her to qualify with AMTRA (Animal Medicines Training Regulatory Authority) while working on the family sheep farm, having just completed her first-class honours degree in Applied Animal Science through the SRUC in Edinburgh.

“I am extremely proud to have achieved the overall winner award,” said Stephanie. “I believe communication and professionalism are the key skills and qualities we must demonstrate as AMTRA registered animal medicines advisors, building the trust with the customer. This helps us dispel some of the old myths around product use.”

Stephanie believes building this bond helps her to provide advice and information to help customers review current treatment and health plans, and look at alternative products that may be more appropriate. She is also passionate about preventing anthelmintic resistance.