The British Small Animal Veterinary Association is celebrating a record Congress, attended by more than 8,000 people. That's 16% up on last year and the largest number ever recorded.

There were 5816 delegates (up from 5028 in 2010), including a record-breaking 634 visitors from more than 50 overseas countries. BSAVA says it expects that figure to snowball when the Association hosts the World Congress next year.

There were over 250 exhibitors in the commercial exhibition, where many millions of pounds worth of business was done (one exhibitor alone reported £5M worth of orders). Outside the exhibition hall, delegates amassed more than 100,000 CPD hours presented by more than 100 specialist speakers.

BSAVA President at the event Grant Petrie said: "It has been a tremendous honour to preside over such a truly world-class Congress, particularly to serve as President on the 250^th anniversary of the veterinary profession.

"I am immensely proud to see more delegates and more exhibitors than ever before, together with a fantastic social programme and networking opportunities which created a really special buzz around the event.

"It is a really exciting time for veterinary science and Congress continues to be right at the heart of the profession. I believe it has been the best year yet and the figures certainly support this.

"I have always been impressed by Congress - particularly the commitment to supporting the entire veterinary profession and industry. I would like to congratulate and personally thank the dedicated team of volunteers from within our profession who have worked so hard to put this superb event together. That it is created by vets and nurses for their peers is what makes Congress so unique."

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vets.