Team

Micaela Wright MRCVS

I qualified as a vet in 1994 and after 3 years in mixed practice, I joined Stanhope Park Veterinary Hospital. In 1999 I joined Andrew Geldard in partnership, until his retirement in 2008. I now run the practice with the help of my extensive team.

I am interested in pain management and offer acupuncture as an alternative or adjunctive to conventional pain management. I am a keen surgeon with extensive experience in most orthopaedic and other surgeries.

Following the opening of our new Cats and Exotics Clinic, I now split my time between Stanhope Road and Duke Street. I am the veterinary Rabbit Advocate and enjoy working with our exotic patients.

My other major passion is animal welfare. For many years now I have had an active role as a veterinary surgeon working closely with RSPCA inspectors in animal cruelty and welfare cases.

Cecile Spring MRCVS

I qualified as a vet in 1998 from the University of Zurich, Switzerland. Initially interested in all things cow and farming related, I spent the first part of my career in mixed and specialised farm animal practice both in Switzerland and England. Having my first child brought a massive change, not least in the direction of my career as a vet. I hung up my wellies, turned my back on farming and joined Stanhope Park Vets in 2010.

I enjoy the variety of being a “GP-vet”, with a bias towards internal medicine and all things furry. In 2019 I challenged myself to learn a new skill and I am thrilled to be able to spay bitches by keyhole surgery. For me the most rewarding part of the job is being able to accompany clients and their pets from the first vaccination to the trials of old age and everything in between. I divide my time mainly between the surgery in Middleton St George and the Darlington hospital, but will spend the occasional day at our Cats and Exotics branch.

Outside of work I enjoy spending time outdoors with my family and training and competing in agility with our pack of six dogs.

Louise Marwood MRCVS

I have worked at Stanhope Park Veterinary Hospital since 2006. I enjoy the variety of work seen at the hospital and love meeting clients and their pets and giving the best service I can.

At home I have a Jack Russell Terrier, a cat, many pet lambs and three children. In my spare time I help my father on his sheep and cattle farm.

Joanna Metcalfe MRCVS

I graduated from Liverpool University in 2001. After 2.5 years in mixed practice I decided my heart lay with specialising as a small animal vet. I joined the Stanhope Park Team in June 2013 and enjoy the variety of pets and people we get to meet here.

My spare time is spent with my family and I enjoy cycling, reading and travelling. We have two cats, “Teddy” and “Turbo” who were brought into the surgery as 2 week old rescues and hand reared, and a Standard Poodle called “Peanut” who loves long walks.

Jeanette H. Tungesvik MRCVS

I graduated from the University of Edinburgh in 2010 and worked in a small animal practice in Australia for 3 years, before joining the team at Stanhope Park Veterinary Hospital in July 2013. My veterinary interests are surgery and preventative medicine.

Together with my partner, we have a brain damaged rescue Bearded Dragon called Boris, Dani the Leopard Gecko, and in the spring of 2020 we welcomed Hazel the Irish Terrier puppy into our family.

Ana Merle Porta MRCVS

I graduated from the University of Cardenal Herrera CEU (Valencia) in Spain in 2011. Afterwards I moved to England and did some work experience in small animal practices before completing an Internship at Rutland House Referrals. I joined Stanhope Park Veterinary Hospital in May 2015. I enjoy all aspects of my job, particularly internal medicine and dermatology.

At home I like spending time in the garden with my partner, and cooking. I have got a lovely Border Terrier called “Cheeky”. We are always together, and he loves coming to work with me and sitting on the sofa with me watching TV!

Yasmin Aabbouz MRCVS

I graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in 2016, and have enjoyed working at Stanhope Park ever since. I love the variety of work at Stanhope Park, and my veterinary interests include internal medicine and exotics. I am very excited to be currently working towards my post-graduate Certificate in Exotic Medicine.

At home I have four very cheeky rats called Luci, Maze, Arrow and Amenadiel. In my spare time I enjoy playing music, jogging and exploring the North East.

Spyridon Tsekouras MRCVS

I qualified as a vet from the university of Thessaly in 2016. Afterwards I worked with companion animals in Athens for 2 years, then I came to the UK in 2019 to challenge myself and get more experience. My main focus is in surgery, but I embrace all aspects of the profession.

In my free time I like to practice martial arts, especially Brazilian jiu-jitsu and wrestling.

Achilleas Potsios MRCVS

I obtained my Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine from University of Thessaly in October 2018. In November 2018 I worked for 9 months as a vet in the Greek army, where I was involved with examining and operating on army dogs and conducting experiments in the army’s chemistry lab. Then, in November 2019 I came to England to follow a career in small animal surgery and pathology.

In my free time I like working out and swimming.

Michelle Baldwin RVN

I started working at Stanhope Park Veterinary Hospital in September 1997 and qualified as a veterinary nurse in August 2001. During my time here I feel that I have developed a good rapport with many of our clients and have met some fantastic characters along the way.

My job includes supporting the other nurses in the team and working alongside the vets, both in reception and the consulting rooms, as well as behind the scenes, operating and nursing the in-patients.

Charlotte Turley RVN

I qualified in 1998, but have been nursing now since 1993 and have enjoyed gaining lots of experience along the way. I have formed some fantastic friendships with our clients and their pets over the years. I continue to strive to the best of my ability in all aspects of veterinary work.

I have a daughter called Millie and a funny Dachshund called Betty, who keep me on my toes!

Lisa Lewis RVN

I started working in a mixed veterinary practice in 1996 on a voluntary basis, which led to permanent employment a year later. After attending college, I qualified as a veterinary nurse in 2000. I came to work at Stanhope Park in November 2002.

I find animal welfare very interesting. My goals are to further my knowledge in nursing rabbits, guinea pigs and other small furry patients, animal nutrition, surgical nursing and also emergency and critical care.

Laura Wells RVN

Laura Wells
I qualified as a Veterinary Nurse in 2004 from Houghall College in Durham, but I have been nursing since 1999. I joined Stanhope Park Veterinary Hospital in April 2011. I like all aspects of nursing but have a special interest in surgical nursing and enjoy caring for the inpatients.

When I’m not at work my little girl keeps me busy. We are looking forward to getting her lots of pets when she is older.

Laura Beahan RVN

I started working in a veterinary practice in 2003. I qualified in 2006 and completed a BSc (hons) degree in Veterinary Nursing and Practice Management in 2007, and I joined Stanhope Park Vets in September 2014.

My constant companion is Lev the Labrador who joined me at 8 weeks old in October 2017. He is named after explorer Levison Wood. I am looking forward to going on our own walking adventures when he’s fully grown. I also have 9 year old brother and sister cats Bagheera and Miura.

Working at Stanhope Park has fuelled my love of reptiles and I now have 4 snakes, 2 of which are rescues via RSPCA. I am currently studying an Advanced Programme in Veterinary Nursing of Reptiles and Amphibians to enhance the care I can provide our exotic friends.

Rachel Phoenix RVN

I have been at Stanhope Park since July 2006, qualifying in 2008 with a degree in Veterinary Nursing Science from the University of the West of England. I enjoy the variety that working as a nurse brings and I love many aspects of my job, but my main interests lie in medical nursing and rehabilitation and physiotherapy. I am hoping to do more training towards this in the future.

In my spare time I like to spend time with my family including my two beautiful cats Leon and Amelia.

Sue Glasper ISFM DipFN RVN

I joined the practice in December 2001 after completing my work placement here whilst studying for a National Diploma in Animal Care at Houghall College. I have since completed my Veterinary Nurse Training at Myerscough College, becoming qualified in March 2010.
I have always been keen to continue learning about this ever evolving profession, and have realised my passion for all things cat! In 2017, I completed the ISFM Diploma in Feline Nursing, and hold a special interest in feline behaviour and the role of stress prevention and management. I have since continued to build on my feline-specific nursing knowledge and I hope to embark on a feline behaviour qualification in the near future. My other special interests include medical nursing and the role of nutrition in medical conditions.

I have worked exclusively at our Cats and Exotics Clinic on Duke Street since opening in 2016, where I have been assigned as the “Cat Advocate” for the practice – this means I am responsible for ensuring that staff are correctly trained in “cat-friendly” principles, and that “cat-friendly” practice protocols are put in place and followed.

At home I have a beautiful, semi-long haired moggie called Magpie, and a very cheeky Border Terrier called Bea.

Sarah Potter RVN

I first came to Stanhope Park Veterinary Hospital on work placement in November 2007 whilst studying for a Veterinary Nursing degree at the RVC in London. In March 2009, I was offered the chance to continue my training through the practice as a full time Student Veterinary Nurse, to which I jumped at the chance! I became fully qualified in November 2012 after taking some time out to have my lovely daughter in 2011 and gorgeous son in 2017.

I have a female ginger cat called “LouLou”. I couldn’t resist her and rehomed her after she came to the practice as a stray.
I love every aspect of nursing – seeing some of our patients come to us with varying issues and being able to help make them more comfortable, as well as supporting their owners, is very rewarding.

Becky Turnbull RVN

I joined the practice in May 2018, and I love the variety of animals we see here at Stanhope Park, and the fact we have different branches for different species – this is great to ensure a fear-free experience for all. I qualified in June 2014 at Myerscough College with a degree in Veterinary Nursing. Following this I went travelling to Australia and New Zealand for 6 months which was amazing, and I still travel to different countries when I can for holidays.
I have recently completed my Diploma in Advanced Veterinary Nursing – clinical veterinary nursing, at Myerscough College which I thoroughly enjoyed. I am also interested in canine behaviour and surgical nursing, which is something I would like to learn more about in the future.

At home I have my greyhound-cross called Charlie – there is never a dull moment with him, and we are always out walking and exploring somewhere!

Nicole Burn BSc RVN

I began working at Stanhope Park in 2009 as a Saturday receptionist, following on from a school work placement. I graduated from Harper Adams University in 2017, with a degree in Veterinary Nursing and Practice Management. I love the variety that this job brings, no two days are the same! I am interested in medical nursing and complimentary therapies and would like to learn more about these in the future.

At home I have two Rough Collies, five cats and two silkie chickens, which all keep me very busy!

Lindsay Murray RVN

I joined Stanhope Park Veterinary hospital in 2012 whilst completing a Veterinary Care Assistant qualification, and have since completed my nurse training to become a qualified Registered Veterinary Nurse. I have always wanted to work with animals and I couldn’t see myself in life doing anything else – it’s such a rewarding career. There’s nothing more rewarding than helping an animal in need.

I have a handsome Yorkshire terrier called Hugo and a gorgeous mischievous working cocker spaniel puppy called Eric.

Amber Donald SVN

I joined the team at Stanhope Park Veterinary Hospital in 2012 whilst studying Animal Management at Houghall College. I worked as a receptionist for many years before working as an Auxiliary Nurse, and then in September 2017 I started training to become a Registered Veterinary Nurse. I am currently in my second year of training.

I love all animals and I have some weird but wonderful pets at home that I have taken on after they have come into the practice needing a home.

Pippa Young SVN

After doing work experience for a couple of months, I was lucky enough to be offered a full time receptionist role at Stanhope Park Vets. After doing this role for just over a year I was over the moon to be offered an auxiliary nurse position!

I have two gorgeous Lorikeets and my handsome cocker spaniel Buddy who keeps me on my toes with his love of socks and sloppy kisses!
I am fascinated with exotics and reptiles, and have quite the collection at home, which includes Dennis the Tortoise, William the water dragon and a number of snakes and spiders!

Kathryn Jobling SVN

I have worked at Stanhope Park Veterinary Hospital since May 2011, and I love my job as it is very rewarding. I assist in everything from admitting patients, looking after them from arrival to going home, setting up theatre, making sure your pet’s stay here is as comfortable as possible, and much more in between.
I love the variety the job brings, and enjoy learning new things and hope to become a Qualified Veterinary Nurse here at Stanhope Park.

Laura Weldon

I joined Stanhope Park Vets in January 2019 as an auxiliary nurse. I enjoy all aspects of the job, but especially looking after the animals during their stay. In my free time I am kept busy with my horse and my three dogs whom all compete at agility.

Helen Geldard

I have been with this practice for many years and have seen it grow, from being a small practice into the hospital we now have today. My brief has always been, and remains, to ensure that everything runs as smoothly as possible and that you, our clients and particularly your pets, receive the service they deserve.
Most of my leisure time is devoted to walking my wire-haired Dachshund, and developing my garden – great fun if hard work.

Ann Ainsley-Bates

Having been employed at Stanhope Park Veterinary Hospital for over 11 years now, my love of being in an environment helping all small animals has never diminished. I am normally in the office, but occasionally you may see me in reception.

Sarah Huitson

I returned to Stanhope Park Veterinary Hospital in 2014 to work on reception as I missed the job, animals, clients and staff too much after 3 years of being away. I initially joined the practice in 2007 working on reception for 2.5 years then concentrated on auxiliary / student veterinary nursing for 2 years.
In 2019 I completed the ISFM Cat Friendly Veterinary Receptionist course, as half of my time is spent at our Cats and Exotics clinic. I am always looking for new courses that will improve my knowledge of the different species of animals we see within our practice.
I thoroughly enjoy being at the desk to welcome clients and pets into the practice and provide them with the best service I can. I feel the experience I have gained from those 2 years of student veterinary nursing and caring for many of my own/family animals, which have ranged from an iguana to goats, helps me greatly when discussing matters of animal care with clients. I always aim for reception to be a calm, organised and tidy area.

Jayne Yorke

I joined Stanhope Park Vets in 2010 when they took over from my previous employer McCabe Vets in Yarm, and I have since been relocated to our newly refurbished brance practice in Middleton-St-George. I really enjoy being front of house, meeting and greeting all of our clients and getting to know the MSG residence and their furry friends.
I have a busy home life being kept on my toes by my amazing family; our 2 Staffies Diesel 15 years and Alfie 14 years; our African Grey Parrot Nesta; and our horse Ellie.

Ellie Tennant

I joined the team at Stanhope Park Vets in August 2017 and work part-time between the main hospital and cats and exotics. I love meeting new and existing clients and I become very fond of their furry friends.
I’ve had a wide range of animals over the years and currently have a poodle-cross called Branston, a geriatric rescue hamster called Ernest, and a few Stick Insects. In my spare time i enjoy spending time with my daughter, family and friends and I love to bake.

Georgia Hogan

Hi, my name is Georgia (aka crazy rabbit lady)! I’ve got 5 bunnies, a crazy Labrador called Jax, and my newest addition – Mylo the cocker spaniel pup! I’ve not worked here long but I already feel part of the Stanhope Park family! Here at Stanhope I work on reception and look forward to meeting all the lovely clients we have here and of course all the lovely pets! I would love to do my veterinary nursing training and one day become a Registered Veterinary Nurse.

Sam Cummings

Hi, my name is Sam and I’ve been part of the Reception Team since January 2020, and have been made to feel very welcome by the whole Team! I have a 13 year old Border Collie called Fizz, and I am very happy to have been given an opportunity to change career path from a primarily Retail/Management background.

Daniel Smith

After doing work experience for 2 weeks and then volunteering for just over a year, I was lucky enough to be offered an evening receptionist role.
My favourite part of the job is meeting all the animals and their owners!

Shirley Atkinson

I have been employed at the practice since 1992 as the cleaner (lady of all jobs), and I always enjoy talking to the animal patients at work whenever I have the time.

Denise Scoffin

I started working at Stanhope Park Vets in 2015 as a part-time cleaner, and I have 5 Border Collies at home ranging from 4 to 14 years old. I enjoy my work at Stanhope as I am very animal-orientated, and the rest of the staff are great to work with.
When not at work, my dogs keep me busy, and I compete in Dog Agility with two of them.

Chrissy Pullen

I have worked at Stanhope Park Veterinary Hospital since May 2011, and I love my job as it is very rewarding. I assist in everything from admitting patients, looking after them from arrival to going home, setting up theatre, making sure your pet’s stay here is as comfortable as possible, and much more in between.

I love the variety the job brings, and enjoy learning new things and hope to become a qualified Veterinary Nurse here at Stanhope Park.