AT their latest club meeting the president of the Vaga Probus Club, Paul Mason, presided over the ladies annual luncheon. After the meal, he introduced Alex Atock MRC VS who spoke of his many years association with horses, especially in the areas of racing, competition and welfare.

Alex spoke of his early years in veterinary practice which he had to give up due to the onset of brucellosis. Undeterred, he accepted an invitation to become the veterinary officer to the Irish Turf Club which opened many doors affecting his future, namely the racing authorities of the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, America, Australia and other countries. The subjects covered included control of medication and forensic analyses to horse related health issues. He officiated at a number of international events, such as the 1980 Moscow Olympic Games and the Volvo World Cup show jumping final in Birmingham.

In 1982 he was given the post of head of the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) based in Switzerland, which is the sole authority for international events in dressage, jumping, eventing, driving and other disciplines. He retired from this post in 1995.

After his retirement Alex became the official veterinary consultant to the United Arab Emirates Equestrian and Racing Federation. He then went on to initiate horse welfare issues in such countries as Ethiopia, El Salvador, Fiji, Kenya, Mexico and subsequently to oversee training programmes for World Horse Welfare in a number of developing countries. Clearly a truly dedicated man who loves all creatures equine and Alex was warmly thanked for his meaningful and fascinating presentation.