A welfare vet has celebrated 25 years of rescuing horses.

Nic de Brauwere joined the Hapton-based Redwings Horse Sanctuary in 1991 and has dedicated his career to the advancement of horse welfare.

Mr de Brauwere, who is the charity's head of welfare and behaviour, has also worked with the Welsh government to help draft a Control of Horses (Wales) Act, which led to similar legislation in England, and has led high-profile rescue operations.

In one case in 2008 at Spindle Farm in Amersham, more than 100 horses, ponies and donkeys were rescued over 24-hours.

Fellow vet, Roxane Kirton, said: 'He has led the development of our behaviour programme at Redwings because he has the vision and conviction to drive forward change and make things happen, while always being open-minded and reflective of ways in which we can improve the lives of our horses.

'I – and his whole team – are so proud to work alongside Nic and to be part of such a dynamic and forward-thinking department, plus his brilliant sense of humour and vivid shirt collection ensures there is never a dull day.'

Redwings chief executive Lynn Cutress said: 'Nic has been instrumental in our landmark achievements as a charity and this is testament to his 25-year commitment to Redwings and helping horses in need.

'Both within our own charity and in his partnership working with our fellow animal welfare organisations and key partners like local authorities and emergency services, Nic's drive and determination are inspirational and demonstrate that when working together we can achieve the unachievable – from the Amersham rescue to the phenomenal work in Wales. When the chips are down for horses in dire need, I always know Nic and his team will deliver.'