Just Practising

David Grant is now a well-loved face and an expert vet, but this was not always the case. David brings to life the challenges and indignities of being the new vet on the block in a Kent country practice in the 60s. A keen athlete, David would put his sprinting and hurdling skills to the test when he needed to make a quick exit from the pen of a hostile quadruped and after many bitter experiences learnt to dodge flying hooves - but not before being hurled into piles of manure. However, the rewards of delivering sheep and calves during difficult labours, of learning to diagnose illnesses with confidence and of gaining the trust of the local community all spurred him on to learn more and persevere in his chosen vocation. And then there were the more human compensations of large pots of steaming tea and warm scones at farmhouse tables, a smooth pint and roaring fire at unspoilt country pubs, and the good luck to find lodgings in a house full of pretty student teachers...