A VET who swapped the rural dales to help animals in Sri Lanka has been crowned Vet of the Year at a prestigious awards ceremony.

Janey Lowes, originally of Barnard Castle, in Teesdale, was nominated for an Animal Hero Award which recognises and celebrates the most inspiring examples of bravery, dedication and resilience in the animal world.

The Daily Mirror and RSPCA picked the most inspiring animals along with the individuals and teams who have shown outstanding commitment to improving their lives at this year’s ceremony, on September 7.

Celebrity guests included Alesha Dixon and Paul O’Grady.

Miss Lowes set up charity, WeCare Worldwide, which treats sick and injured street dogs, cats and monkeys in Sri Lanka.

In 2015 WECare Worldwide neutered almost 900 dogs and cats, vaccinated 1,300 dogs, cats and monkeys against rabies and treated more than 400 sick and injured animals.

Miss Lowes became the first vet to receive a Points of Light award, an award presented by the Prime Minister to volunteers who make positive changes in their community, earlier this year.

Event host, Amanda Holden said: “It’s so important to recognise those who selflessly dedicate themselves to animal welfare – as well as the outstanding animals themselves, of course."