Alex Atock, a retired veterinary surgeon who lives in Ross-on-Wye, has written a book entitled, My Friend the Horse, detailing his professional life in a variety of equestrian roles.

Alex was born in Dublin in 1932 and graduated from the Veterinary College of Ireland in 1958. His love for all things equine commenced as a small child and continued throughout his life. This book will take the reader through his veterinary work, from the initial years in general practice, starting in Ross-on-Wye, and then, following some 10 years in his own practice close to Dublin, and resulting from his interest in racing, he was appointed veterinary officer to the Irish Turf Club (Jockey Club).

Alex also moved to Switzerland to become head of the Veterinary Department of the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI), the ruling body of international equestrian sport. Following an early retirement from the FEI, he moved on to the United Arab Emirates on his appointment as veterinary officer and consultant to the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation, and finally to the British-based international equine charity, World Horse Welfare, responsible for its international training programmes in developing countries.

Alex has a particular interest in equine welfare, facilitating the international movement of horses, doping and the control of medication in equestrian sport - he was also the past secretary/treasurer of the World Equine Veterinary Association.

Alex and his wife, Sherley, have three grown-up children and live in Ross.

Alex told the Ross Gazette: “Knowing that I came from a long line of railway engineers I felt that I should set the record straight for the benefit of my children and grandchildren!”

My Friend the Horse is available directly from the publisher, [email protected], and at Rossiter Books in Ross.