A SOUTH Lakes professor has won a lifetime achievement award for her pioneering work saving the eyesight of man’s best friend.

Semi-retired veterinary ophthalmologist Sheila Crispin, who lives near Kendal, has devoted her life to comparative eye disease as a researcher and clinician.

Her work has saved the eyesight of thousands of animals, and has now earned her a lifetime achievement award in the coveted International Canine Health Awards.

One of the most prestigious veterinary awards in Europe, the award includes prize money of £10,000.

The awards, run by the Kennel Club Charitable Trust and underwritten by a major gift from Vernon and Shirley Hill of Metro Bank, highlight individuals who go one step further to promote the health and well-being of dogs through their work in the world of veterinary science.

Professor Crispin’s innovative research has focused on understanding the way eye disease develops, with particular focus on ocular diseases involving lipids (fats), some of which can severely compromise vision and even cause blindness if untreated.

This pioneering research has benefited understanding of disorders in both humans and animals, as well as bringing her worldwide acclaim.

Professor Crospin said: “I am privileged and honoured to receive such a prestigious award.

“My work will continue but the crowning achievements of my research career have been delivering papers to medical and scientific audiences at International Conferences.

“I must, however, also mention the joys of clinical work, restoring sight and helping many animals enjoy a better quality of life, be it orphan elephants in Kenya, or a blind Border Collie on a remote island in the Faroes.

“This most generous award will enable me to continue to visit remote areas to help tackle the many eye diseases of the local inhabitants.”

Mike Townsend, Chairman of Trustees at the Kennel Club Charitable Trust, which runs the awards, said: “Professor Crispin is an inspiration to those involved in veterinary research, continually searching for answers to the most difficult questions and completely reinventing the way we view and treat canine eye disease.”