Independent Vet Team
in Topsham

Harriet Sharp BVetMed MRCVS OV
Veterinary Surgeon & Director

Harriet qualified from the Royal Veterinary College in 2014, originally from Cambridge she moved to Exeter in 2017 and never intends to leave! Harriet has worked in a variety of small animal practices and has a particular interest in surgery and ophthalmology. She lives in Exeter with her husband, Harry, their son, Freddie and whippet-bedlington Dilly, as well their originally named ginger cat Ginge. Outside of work Harriet enjoys cycling, surfing, sea swimming, running and walking.

Rob Somerwill – MRCVS, BVM, BVS CertAVP(SAS), OV, OV66
Veterinary Surgeon & Director

Rob was born and raised in Exeter.

After studying Veterinary Medicine at the University of Nottingham, he returned to the Southwest with his wife, two daughters, and Labrador, Tod. Rob brings local knowledge and advanced surgical skills to the practice, having completed a Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice (Small Animal Surgery) through the University of Liverpool.

Rob is passionate about forming lasting relationships with clients and their pets, and works across a wide range of clinical areas, with a special interest in orthopaedics, keyhole surgery, and wound management. Outside the clinic, Rob volunteers with marine mammal rescue and teaches medical English to international students.

Charlotte Watts – RVN, CCMN
Veterinary Nurse & Director

Charlotte is a Registered Veterinary Nurse who has lived and worked locally all her life. She qualified in 2017 and has since held senior nursing roles, including Head Veterinary Nurse. She is also a Clinical Coach and holds a certificate in Canine Mobility Nursing, with a strong interest in rehabilitation, radiography, and elderly patient care. Charlotte’s world revolves around animals, both at work and at home. When at home, she can be found caring for her spaniel, British shorthaired cat and two horses.

Leah Talbot Bérubé BVMSci MRCVS OV
Veterinary Surgeon

Leah qualified from the University of Surrey in 2022 and moved to Devon, initially working in mixed practice. She has a holistic approach to cases and is currently completing a certificate with a focus on anaesthesia and analgesia. Leah lives with her partner, Martyn, 2 dogs - Loki and Persephone and 2 gerbils, Tinie and Tempah. Outside of work Leah is an Army reservist and enjoys sailing, paddleboarding and running.

Tracy Connor – RVN
Veterinary Nurse & Director

With over 20 years of experience, Tracy brings expertise, warmth, and leadership to our nursing team. After qualifying in Devon, she spent 26 years at one practice, holding roles from RVN to Practice Manager. Her dedication was recognised with multiple nominations for Veterinary Nurse and Practice Manager of the Year at the Petplan Awards. Tracy has trained and mentored future nurses and is certified in small animal physiotherapy and rehabilitation. When she’s not at work, she’s out running marathons, cheering on Ferrari in Formula 1, or hiking with her husband.

Rachel Fox - RVN
Veterinary Nurse

Rachel was born and raised locally and qualified in 2020. Since then, she’s taken on senior clinical roles, including Lead Nurse, and also works as a Clinical Supervisor. She has a keen interest in diagnostic imaging and is close to completing her Diagnostic Nurse Certificate. Her experience spans X-ray, ultrasound and CT.

Outside of work, Rachel loves getting out for dog walks with friends, her soon-to-be husband Chris, and her cocker spaniel puppy, Birdie. She also enjoys going to the gym, swimming, and ending the day with cuddles from her hand-reared cat, Mr Darcey.

Heather Pearson- Receptionist

Heather is originally from the North East but fell in love with Devon, and in particular Topsham, when visiting for work whilst employed by the NHS. She made the move South in 2002 and has been living in Topsham ever since with husband John and two rescue cats, Milo and Alfie.

Heather has 9 years of experience working as a veterinary receptionist at two busy veterinary practices in Exeter.

Outside of work, she is a regular gym goer and enjoys meeting friends for long walks, park run and the obligatory coffee and cake afterwards. She also volunteers with Plastic Free Exmouth at their weekly beach clean.

Ann Gallin – Receptionist

Ann started life in South East London, grew up in Kent then moved to Exeter in 1995.

She is married to Pete and between them they have 4 grown up children, the youngest of whom is at university studying to be a vet. She also has 1 baby grandson.

Ann joins us after working for 3 years as a receptionist at another vet practice in Exeter.

She loves nothing more than spending time with the family, especially her grandson, singing with a gospel choir and being in nature while trying to take very amateur photos of wildlife.

Paul Neilson – Director

Paul is a Chartered Accountant with a passion for building excellent client-facing businesses. He’s been part of the local community since 2001, living with his family on a smallholding filled with animals (and bees). Paul brings his leadership experience from multiple sectors – including co-founding another veterinary practice —to help Estuary Vets grow with purpose. His focus is on finance, governance, and supporting the clinical team to deliver an outstanding, community-led service. Paul’s also a keen outdoorsman, beekeeper, and former National Trust forestry volunteer.