THE HEAD of Trustees for The Donkey Sanctuary has been awarded a CBE.

Professor Stuart Reid, the charity's Chair of Trustees, was named a Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire in the Queen's birthday honours list.

Prof Reid has been a trustee for the Sanctuary, which has its Leeds base at Eccup*, since 1996 and its Chair since 2007.

He is also a Professor of Veterinary Epidemiology and Informatics, holding the position of joint Chair between the Universities of Glasgow and Strathclyde since 1997.

His CBE was bestowed in recognition of his 'contributions to the veterinary profession and higher education'.

Chief Executive Officer at The Donkey Sanctuary, Mike Baker, said: "We are thrilled to hear of Stuart’s appointment and offer our hearty congratulations.

"It is an endorsement of Stuart’s hard work and dedication which is reflected in his valuable contribution to The Donkey Sanctuary."

Prof Reid added: "I am delighted and humbled.

"It is truly a privilege to have had the opportunity to be part of both the veterinary profession and the university community, and to have worked with colleagues throughout my career who have a huge commitment to the common good.

"I am very grateful that the importance of animal health, education and science is being acknowledged in this way."

Prof Reid has worked in Africa and the USA and is a Visiting Professor at the University of Sydney, senior vice president of the European College of Veterinary Public Health and a member of the UK Veterinary Products Committee.

He also currently serves on the Scottish Science Advisory Committee and is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh.

*The charity's centre at Eccup provides weekly, riding-assisted therapy to hundreds of people with additional needs.