A North Yorkshire veterinary surgeon, forced to quit the profession after suffering a spinal injury, has started a new career in law.

Madeleine Forsyth is doing a Bar vocational course at Newcastle University and says that, when she qualifies, will be one of only 11 vets in the country who are also qualified as barristers.

Ms Forsyth has returned to her home village of Ampleforth to set up VetLaw, after starting her career at the legendary "James Herriot" practice in Thirsk, before moving to Helmsley in 1983.

An injury in a road accident at Sutton Bank 18 months ago left her unable to carry out surgical operations.

Now she has fought back and with her barrister partner, Stephen Lomas, has set up the new enterprise at The Old Post Office, Ampleforth.

"I already act as a witness for such organisations as the RSPCA, Defra and the Meat Hygiene Service" said Ms Forsyth, a vet for 25 years and now a student member of the Inner Temple.

"We assist wherever the law and livestock meet" she said. "Our legal advice is focused by our intimate knowledge and experience of agriculture, rural pursuits, the equine industry, companion animals and the food industry.

Mr Lomax, her fellow director in the practice, is a farmer as well as a vet, being based at Wooler in Northumberland, and became a barrister last year.