Tributes paid to founder of Coleraine veterinary practice

Staff at a Coleraine veterinary clinic have paid tribute to its founder after she passed away.

Millburn Veterinary Practice was set up in the 1960s by Catherine McNeill and is now run by Cathal and Anne-Marie Carr ,who took over the practice having worked with Catherine for two years before her retirement in 2005.

It was the first dedicated small animal practice to be established in Northern Ireland outside of Belfast.

A post on Millburn’s Facebook page read: “The staff at Millburn Veterinary Practice are saddened by the recent passing of Catherine McNeill.

Mrs McNeill founded Millburn Veterinary Practice in the late 1960s and devoted her career to the treatment and care of animals. Her practice in Coleraine was the first dedicated small animal clinic outside of Belfast and her reputation was renowned far and wide.

“She will be deeply missed by many old clients and friends. Our deepest sympathy to her husband Leonard, daughters Judith and Lorna and their families.”

The post prompted a huge reaction from those who knew the vet from her time in in practice .with Lia Connolly writing: “I’m sorry to hear this. Mrs McNeil took great care of my beloved childhood pets, my Siamese cat and Rotweiller dog.”

Valerie Bray wrote: “Oh so sorry to hear this. She was a lovely lady who went above and beyond for the animals. Caring, compassionate and a consummate professional.”

While former employee Amanda Jones wrote: “Thinking of Leonard, Judith and Lorna and their families at this very sad time.

“I had the privilege to work for Catherine and hand on heart I can say she was the best boss I’ve ever had.”