A WEST Devon woman has this week paid tribute to farms and veterinary practices in the area, who have helped her achieve her goal of becoming a vet.

Emma Passmore recently graduated as a member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons from the Royal Veterinary College, London after five years of study and was 'thrilled' to have been offered her first position as a qualified vet with Buller Vets in Westport, New Zealand.

Emma was a student and former head girl at Kelly College, attending Milton Abbott Primary School before that.

She has played hockey for Tavistock, and when home can be found hashing with TVH3. 

Emma said: 'I've wanted to become a vet from a young age and have now fulfilled this childhood dream. The chance to continue to live this dream in New Zealand has been a wonderful opportunity.

'I'm particularly grateful to the local farms and veterinary practices that provided me with hands-on experience and support before and during my years at university. This experience has been really crucial.'

Westport is a small town in the South Island, on the west coast of New Zealand.

Emma said: 'I'm really in my element here. There are so many outdoor activities I'm getting involved in in my free time.

'I'm starting to feel at home in this rural countryside, blessed with stunning scenery. However, I am looking forward to returning to Devon after my two years here.'

To keep up with Emma's adventures see emmasadventures.me.uk site.