A LANCASTER vet will be swapping his white coat for a tuxedo and black tie tonight (Thursday) - after being short-listed as one of the best in the country.

James Glass, from Lancaster Veterinary Centre, has been nominated for the award for the third year on the trot.

And this time his surgery has been listed in the top class practice category as well.

James, pictured right with his Golden retriever 'Finn' says he is really 'chuffed' that the practice has been chosen from hundreds across the UK - and is now ready to face the other finalists at the Petplan Veterinary Awards in Birmingham.

"I am honoured to be put forward again, particularly since the nominations come from my own clients at the practice," says James.

"But it is more pleasing to see the practice nominated as it reflects the hard work and dedication of the nurses and staff in delivering a high quality and personal service to our clients and their pets."

James is taking time out from looking after some 300 pets a week and providing round-the-clock care to join 6,000 other vets for a conference before the big awards night today.

He says it is very rewarding to care for and nurse pets in the area, where he has worked for eight years. But he also likes to deal with something more 'exotic' for a change - and contracts to look after the animals including snakes and spiders at Williamson Park and the birds of prey at Leighton Hall provide that.