Myerscough College in Preston, England, awarded Simon Curtis an Honorary Fellowship at its award ceremony July 13, 2017.

Curtis earned a PhD earlier this year through a program at the University of Central Lancashire, an associate college of Myerscough. His thesis examined hoof growth in Thoroughbred foals, including normal growth changes and how conformational defects result in misshapen hooves. Curtis presented his findings at the 2017 International Hoof-Care Summit.

Curtis is a practicing farrier in Newmarket, England, specializing in foals. He is a member of the International Horseshoeing Hall Of Fame and Fellow of the Worshipful Company of Farriers, as well as an Honorary Associate of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons.

In addition to receiving his doctorate at the ceremony, he was bestowed an Honorary Fellowship citing both his academic achievements and contribution to farriery.

Dr. Ann Turner, principal of the college, awarded Curtis the honor. As an Honorary Fellow, he helped continue the ceremony.

“Having received the award, I then presented all the certificates to the farriers and veterinary nurses during the ceremony, which was an honor in itself,” says Curtis.

He is the first farrier to receive this award from Myerscough College.