Barbie Matthews was told by one of her school teachers that she would never make it as a veterinary nurse.

Now she's celebrating winning the prestigious Vet Nurse of the Year award.

Barbie, who works at the Chess Veterinary Clinic in Rickmansworth, was acclaimed as "innovative yet practical" by judges at the annual Petplan awards ceremony which recognises achievement in the veterinary world.

Examples of her resourceful approach include making a bandage out of fish net tights and fashioning an impromptu gas mask for a dental treatment at the Uxbridge Road clinic.

A spokesperson from Petplan, the animal insurance provider hosting the event, said judges had been impressed by Barbie's determination and perseverance. He said: "Barbie has engaged in self-development by studying for qualifications that equipped her and her team with greater veterinary knowledge. Her ability to go the extra mile in helping clients and colleagues shone out by a mile."

After accepting the award, Barbie said: "One of my teachers told me I would never make it as a vet nurse and now look at me. This is the most incredible experience in my entire life."