Remembering the inspirational life of Simon Doherty

We’re extremely saddened by the news that BVA Past President Professor Simon Doherty has passed away.  

An inspiration to everyone he met and who worked alongside him, Simon joined BVA as a student. He was BVA Northern Ireland Branch and North of Ireland Veterinary Association President from 2015 – 2016, going on to be BVA President from 2018 – 2019 where he brought his passion for sustainability and One Health to the top of BVA’s agenda.  

A passionate advocate for the positive role vets can play in championing sustainability, he oversaw the publication of BVA’s UK sustainable animal agriculture position calling for the introduction of sustainable animal agriculture measures to better protect the world which both people and animals share.  

More recently Simon led BVA’s working group on sustainable finfish aquaculture, resulting in a policy position calling on the aquaculture industry to take a One Health approach to achieve sustainability goals. 

Highly respected and an internationally recognised expert in his field, Simon continued to share his expertise as a Senior Lecturer at Queen’s University in Belfast, teaching undergraduate and postgraduate students on topics related to animal health, animal welfare, One Health and sustainable food production. Reaching out and taking every opportunity to spread the word about One Health and sustainability was incredibly important to him, and he would always make time to inspire and support the next generation of vets.  

He became an RCVS Fellow in 2020, and this year, he was named World Vet of the Year at the WVA Global Veterinary Awards for his contribution to One Health, and secured the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Veterinary Profession. 

BVA President Liz Mullineaux, said: “We are deeply saddened to have lost Simon. He was a truly inspirational vet and a really valued friend. His contribution to BVA, the veterinary profession and animal welfare can’t be overstated and I’m so pleased that his passion and dedication were recognised internationally this year through WVA and FVE awards.  

“Reflecting with colleagues who knew him, what comes through time and again was Simon’s generosity with his time and expertise, always ready to share and support colleagues around him, particularly young and aspiring vets. We will miss his warmth, his wisdom and his humour. Whilst it's dreadfully sad to say goodbye, we will remember and celebrate his life, his work and his outstanding contribution to the world - he leaves it a better place. 

“Our thoughts are with Simon’s family, friends and colleagues at this sad and difficult time.”