A veterinary student from Forest Gate has come second in a national competition.

Michaela Brannick, 23, was crowned runner-up in the Extra Mural Veterinary Study Awards 2015, run jointly by charities Cats Protection and Dogs Trust.

The Royal Veterinary College student’s report, entitled ‘Rehoming cats in pairs - minimising stress in the home and the adoption centre’ earned her a certificate of recognition for her efforts.

Maggie Roberts, director of veterinary services at Cats Protection, said: “Michaela stood out with her interesting and well researched report on an issue that is very important to our care of cats.

“She demonstrates an obvious commitment to feline welfare, and I’m certain that she will be very successful in her veterinary career.”

The scheme, now in its fourth year, sees students take part in a placement at one of the charities before submitting an essay on a particular cat or dog topic.

Michaela said: “I thoroughly enjoyed my week at Cats Protection, it was a very valuable placement.

“I feel it is important as a vet student to experience shelter medicine and I gained valuable knowledge about feline behaviour and welfare.”