Tributes flood in as popular vet announces retirement

Social media site Facebook was flooded with messages wishing a popular vet a long and happy retirement this afternoon.
Ron Thompson (right), partner and large animal vet for Stanley House Vets with Trawden Show vice-chairman Sean Hickey (S)Ron Thompson (right), partner and large animal vet for Stanley House Vets with Trawden Show vice-chairman Sean Hickey (S)
Ron Thompson (right), partner and large animal vet for Stanley House Vets with Trawden Show vice-chairman Sean Hickey (S)

The news that Ron Thompson is standing down tomorrow after working at Stanley House vets in Colne for 42 years was posted on the website shortly after 2-30pm, prompting a huge reaction from the local community he has served.

Ron arrived in Colne from Aberdeen, shortly after graduating from Edinburgh University in 1972.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

He came for a three-week trial, with the intention of remaining in Colne for two years. However, in 1976 Ron became a partner at Stanley House Vets and went on to spend all his working life caring for the area’s animals, large and small.

A spokesman for Stanley House posted: “I know you are all going to miss this wonderful vet and his cheerful personality. We are certainly going to miss him too.

“It’s been an honour and a privilege working with Ron and he’s always been an amazing vet, a fantastic colleague and brilliant boss.”

Included in some of the many tributes and good wishes to Ronalready sent to Stanley House include these:

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“You were always a gentle and caring vet to all my horses & I’m sure you will be greatly missed by all the staff & clients at Stanley House, may you have a long & happy retirement, you deserve it” - Joanne from Grindleton.

“The end of an era! Ron is a wonderfully kind vet and he has been great with all our horses past and present-have a wonderful retirement Ron and take care “ - Nicki Johnson

“Happy retirement Ron. You are a super vet & will be missed but you’ve earned a break! Enjoy whatever comes next for you” - Kate Portman

“From visiting my first pony in 1975 to my time as HAPPA farm manager in the 90’s. ..during and since. Thank you from the bottom of mt heart Ron for all your help, guidance and support-I learned so much from you. Have a long and happy retirement” - Mu Brynes

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Happy retirement Ron, you will be missed! You have been amazing with me and my ponies over the years and for this I’m truly thankful. My Grandad always had story’s of you when you first came down and my Dad always sings your praises...... Best Vet around is Ron....This from my Dad must say a lot!!!!” - Rebecca Bradley

Ron’s touched the lives of many animal lovers and pet owners across Burnley and Pendle over the years. Do you have a tribute to him and best wishes for his retirement ... you can leave them below and they could be included in the newspaper next week.