Defra has announced that UK Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Debby Reynolds has decided to take early retirement after four years as Britain’s chief vet.

Dr Reynolds, who led the Government’s efforts to contain this year’s Foot and Mouth Disease outbreak, has had a distinguished career as a veterinary scientist and public servant.

During her four years as Chief Vet, Dr Reynolds has taken charge of the battle to confront a wide range of animal health issues, including incidences of Avian Influenza, the Foot and Mouth Disease outbreak and the appearance of Bluetongue disease in recent months.

Dr Reynolds said: "I have been the Chief Veterinary Officer for nearly four years and I am immensely proud of the work that we have carried out.

"The events of this summer were the true test of our contingency planning and the partnership work we have established; we have built a disease control strategy which is the best in the world.

"I have now decided that the time is right for me to move on. I will of course retain links with the Department. I have no doubt that the work we have carried out will continue and I wish my successor all the very best."

Defra Permanent Secretary Helen Ghosh said: "I would like to thank Debby for the hard work and dedication she has given to the department over the last four years. This is a high profile and hugely demanding job in which she has worked tirelessly. I wish her all the very best for the future."

Defra Secretary of State Hilary Benn said: "I am extremely grateful for Debby’s advice and hard work on behalf of the Department both during the recent animal disease outbreaks and over the years. I wish her all the very best in her future career."

Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer Fred Landeg will take over the Chief Veterinary Officer role in the interim.