Matt Purnell - Veterinary Surgeon BVSc MRCVS
I grew up in the Vale of Glamorgan just outside Cardiff and decided I'd like to be a vet after spending all my summers working on the local farms. I went to Bristol University and qualified as a veterinary surgeon in July 1994. My first job was in mixed practice in South Wales - after 2 very enjoyable years there I worked for some small animal practices in London, Leeds and Northampton before missing the coast too much so came here to Scarborough in January 2000. In July 2009 I got married to Mags, who grew up on a farm just north of Whitby and now works for the NHS as an applications manager.
I enjoy all aspects of small animal veterinary medicine and surgery, having a special interest at present in internal medicine and cardiology. Such cases can be challenging but also hugely rewarding. Recent advances, especially in ultrasound and the development of new drugs, have revolutionised how we can treat such cases. I have also had some memorable nights recently treating seals rescued off the local coast - they are always an interesting challenge to treat! Releasing them on the beach and watching them swim out through the surf is quite special.
Outside of work my interests include windsurfing, cycling and snowboarding. Scarborough has an awesome coastline; it's hard to imagine somewhere better for outdoor sports. I joined the Scarborough Paragon cycling club last season and competed in some races with them, but for me the most enjoyable bike rides are along the coast with Mags, or on a mountain bike trying unsuccessfully to tire out my Springer Spaniel, Izzy.