Hundreds of tributes have been paid to a 'passionate and caring' well-known vet that has passed away, just a year after his retirement.
Paul Manning founded Astonlee Veterinary Centre in Newport Pagnell back in the 1980s and had since become a well-loved figure in the local community.
He spent decades treating thousands of local pets, from dogs to birds and reptiles to rabbits.
Paul retired in 2020 and it has been announced that he sadly passed away on Saturday (3/7) at Willen Hospice.
Astonlee said in a statement: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Astonlee Founder, Paul Manning. Paul peacefully passed away on Saturday 3rd July 2021 at Willen Hospice, with his wife Hilary by his side.
"Paul thoroughly enjoyed his work as a vet, working with his clients and their pets and he also enjoyed his music and his faith. He will be greatly missed by the Astonlee Team."
Hundreds of mourning pet owners have since shared tributes to Paul Manning, thanking him for his dedication to their animals.
One person said: "So sad to hear this, Paul was a very compassionate and dedicated vet, he was always to the point with us and consoled us when we lost our fur babies. Condolences to his family."
Another added: "Paul was a wonderful vet, he looked after our many cats & more latterly our dog for over 22 years. He was a caring and compassionate man and I so enjoyed our chats about many different things. He will be much missed. Sending love and deepest sympathy to his wife Hilary and his wonderful long-standing staff. RIP Paul."
One pet owner shared an emotional message, showing that he left a real impact on the community. The message reads: "Paul’s dedication to his practice and patients was exceptional.
"From the moment he opened his first premises in 1986 he worked hard to build up his practice and make it in to the first fully manned 24hr veterinary hospital in the area. A practice with exceptional staff, excellent facilities, great advice, classes, referrals, support when we had to say goodbye to our beloved pets etc. His pioneering cruciate work was amazing and people travelled hundreds of miles to ensure their dog got the best technique.
"It is heartbreaking that Paul did not get to enjoy his retirement. However, he has left a fantastic legacy for CVS to take forward and I hope they continue the great work and the 24/7 on-site care which was so important to Paul (and his customers!).
"Paul, I will never forget your face when I walked in with my first Newfoundland all those years ago, nor your amazing collection of bow-ties. You were missed when you retired and I am incredibly sad that we shall never meet again. My sincere condolences to Hilary, family and friends."
Those who wish to pay tribute to Paul can do so on Astonlee's Facebook page here.
Astonlee says that donations can be made to Willen Hospice as they looked after Paul "so well". Donations can be accepted either via Astonlee or directly to Willen Hospice.
