Meet the team
Veterinary Team
Laurence Webb
BVSc MRCVS
Laurence is the director and lead Veterinary Surgeon of Midsomer Veterinary Centre. He has lived in Midsomer Norton since he qualified from Bristol University in 1996. He joined the practice in 2000 as an employee and became the owner in 2014.
He is a familiar face and enjoys getting to know his patients and clients well, some of whom he has known for over 20 years. Laurence is keen on all aspects of veterinary work and is committed to continually developing the care that Midsomer Veterinary Centre gives to our patients.
In his spare time, Laurence enjoys the outdoor life – rock climbing, walking and camping trips – plus listening to and making music with more enthusiasm than talent!
Stella McLachlan
BVSc MRCVS
Stella originates from Northern Ireland and studied Veterinary Science at Bristol University, qualifying in 2017.
Following her graduation Stella worked in practice in Wolverhampton but always wanted to return to the West Country.
She joined the practice in March 2018 and has become highly popular with our clients. Stella enjoys both medicine and surgery and has developed a keen interest in ultrasound.
Her husband is a pilot with British Airways and she has a beautful baby boy. In her spare time Stella takes part in riding competitions on her horse Campbell. Stella also cares for her two miniature ponies, border collie Enzo and springer spaniel Lottie.
Katie Wonham
BVSc MRCVS
Katie graduated as a vet at Bristol University in 2013, having previously completed a BSc in animal behaviour and welfare. Since then, Katie has combined her clinical experience with her phD in animal welfare and is passionate about behaviour work and helping pets and their people to better understand one another to live happier and more harmonious lives.
Katie also has a particular interest in supporting animals with chronic conditions, working to ensure pets enjoy the best possible quality of life.
Outside of work, Katie has a spirited toddler who keeps her on her toes. She enjoys walking, cycling and agility training- something which she used to love doing with her dog, and now continues with her thoroughbred Cassie.
Nursing Team
Jasmine Simmonds RVN
Jas joined the practice in 2019 and took over the role of Head Veterinary Nurse in 2022.
Jas enjoys hosting our junior Dog Training Academy and has a keen interest in nutrition.
At home Jas has 2 cats, a dog, 2 tortoises and an African pygmy hedgehog who keep her on her toes.
Outside of work she enjoys going to the gym and horse riding.
Ella Hunt SVN
Ella joined the practice in 2022 as a student veterinary nurse. Since joining she has been working hard towards her qualifications, she has passed her professional discussions and has her final exams booked for May 2025.
Ella enjoys all aspects of veterinary nursing especially meeting clients and patients during consultations.
In Ella’s spare time she enjoys going to the gym, reading and taking her two Rhodesian Ridgebacks Xara and Carlos on walks.
Lara MacEwan RVN
Chloe Perry
Chloe joined the practice in 2023, as an Animal Care Assistant, Chloe’s role includes looking after our patients needs before and after operations, ensuring they are always comfortable.
Chloe also ensures the back of house areas run smoothly and supports the team by ensuring the kennel/cattery area is clean and tidy, with all equipment available and ready to use.
Chloe would like to train to become a Veterinary Nurse in the future
Customer Care Team
Kay Dando
Kay joined Midsomer Veterinary Centre in 2023 as a receptionist, her background was retail management and it soon became apparent that she would be a great fit as our Head Receptionist.
Kay grew up in the Mendips with an aray of pets including ponies and lambs. Kay currently has a pet cat called Ducky.
Kay loves to get her head into a good book, going on long walks in the countryside and dining out.
Kay is available most days in the practice and is always willing to help and support with any of your queries.
Peta Blake
Peta joined the team in 2022, returning to the veterinary world after a break.
She was previously a veterinary nurse and actually worked in the practice as a nurse in the 90s. After years away she is enjoying being back in the industry and embracing her new role in reception.
Sophie Clark
Sophie has recently joined the Midsomer team in Feb 2025, Sophie has a vast background in pharmaceuticals and customer service. Sophie decided to join the veterinary industry as she fancied a slight change in career.
Sophie has two dogs Bella a jack russell and Teddy who is a Dachsund.
Administration Team
Julie Murphy
Julie, is an experienced manager with over 22 years of managerial experience in various sectors however transitioned over to the veterinary sector in 2023.
Julie previous worked in the corporate sector of the industry, but decided she wanted to embrace the independent world of veterinary.
Julie works closely alongside our Practice Director and Head Vet Laurence Webb to ensure that the practice not only complies with professional standards but is a welcoming place for our clients and patients.
Julie is available Monday to Friday should anyone wish to contact her in person, via the telephone or email. Her email address is practice.manager@midsomervets.co.uk
Outside of work, Julie is Married to her long suffering husband Scott, she has 4 rescue cats from numerous rescue centres around Somerset and has a Cockapoo called Coco. Julie is born and bred in Somerset and loves nothing more than a cheeky cider and a slice of tangy cheddar!!!.
Paula Padfield
Paula is our Practice Administrator she brings a wealth of experience, having previously worked as demanding roles including in special needs services in local education. Paula has been with the practice for 6 years and is a true asset to our business.
Although she may not be visible to clients that often, she is the backbone of the practice, helping everything to run smoothly, Paula deals with all forms of administration however she is your go to lady for Midsomer Pet Club queries, invoicing and insurance payments.
Paula lives locally and enjoys walking, travelling, and dining out.
Jo Pearson
I am Jo and I am the part time Insurance Administrator for Midsomer Veterinary Centre. I enjoy making crafts and cakes in my spare time and enjoy time with my daughters, house bunnies and rescue dogs.
Jo works solely on a Wednesday submitting in house insurance claims and dealing with insurance queries between client, practice and insurers.