RCVS pays tribute to former President Neal King HonFRCVS

The RCVS has paid tribute to former President Neal King HonFRCVS, following his passing last week.

An eminent veterinary surgeon, Mr King was first elected to RCVS Council in 1988 and held roles on most of its committees, before serving as President from 1994-1995.

In addition to the Royal College, he also presided over other organisations such as the British Veterinary Association and the Society of Practising Veterinary Surgeons, making him one of the first to hold three key offices in the profession.

Mr King first qualified as a veterinary surgeon in 1963, graduating from Bristol University, and went on to have a remarkable career spanning several decades. He started out as a general cattle and companion animal clinician, before developing a small animal practice, and then going on to become a senior partner at a mixed practice near Bristol.

Among his career highlights was becoming a founding partner of the Golden Valley Veterinary Hospital in 1967, one of the first veterinary hospitals in the country.

During his time as RCVS President, Mr King was instrumental in the relocation of the RCVS headquarters from Belgrave Square to Belgravia House on Horseferry Road. Among his other notable achievements was his role in developing the 1996 Guide to Professional Conduct and his work as Chairman of the Deregulation Working party.

In 2000, he was awarded an honorary Fellowship on the grounds of special eminence in, and services rendered to, veterinary science.

Tim Parkin, President of the RCVS, said: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Neal King, who made a huge contribution to the RCVS, and the profession as a whole, during the course of his veterinary career.

“Neal showed unwavering dedication and commitment to improving the standards of veterinary care, putting animal welfare at the heart of everything he did. During his tenure as President, he steered the College through complex issues, providing astute leadership and guidance, while always showing diplomacy and compassion. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of working alongside him.”