A FAMILY-RUN vet in Cumnock has scooped a prestigious award for going above and beyond for their clients.

Crossriggs in Townhead street has been recognised for their phenomenal care for all animals.

The small business is forced to compete against large chains but insist that is what give them an advantage.

The pet medics can get to know their clients and animals well as they run their services 24-hours a day.

It means when there is an emergency or problem they are straight on the scene.

Now the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons has accredited the vet service for their outstanding work.

A spokesperson for the vet said: “ We are a family-run independent practice with a long history of serving Cumnock and the surrounding area.

“We care for all animals, large and small, 24 hours a day. Crossriggs was run by Iain’s dad John for many years, now passed to Iain. Iain’s mum Heather is still part of the team here but John is now retired. Iain’s wife Jo is practice manager. We’ve been accredited by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons since 2012 as part of the Practice Standards Scheme, which quality assures practices and their facilities.

“This year we applied to the Royal College for an additional award in Client Care and were delighted to be designated as outstanding, joining only a handful of practices in Scotland to have achieved this prestigious award. We feel that this award reflects the care that our hard-working and dedicated team provides to the local community, which has included client information evenings, school visits, an open day and other community outreach projects.

“We’re looking forward to attending a special awards ceremony run by the Royal College later in the year.”