A Country Vet by Elin Williams

On Wednesday, August 15th, 2001, in Stillwater, Oklahoma State, U.S.A., Carmarthenshire lost one of its distinguished sons - Professor Eric Idwal Williams. He trained as a veterinary surgeon and made outstanding contributions to his profession in his home country and America.

In his book Reflections of a Country Vet, published in 1996, Dr. Williams recalls with great warmth his upbringing at the Grove Farm, St Clears with his parents, brothers and sisters in the 1920's and 1930's.

Educated at Llangynin Board School, Whitland Grammar School and the Royal Veterinary College, London, he became a member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons at the age of 21. He married Mary Harries of Penllwynau Farm, Nantgaredig, in 1947. He joined a practice in Carmarthen run by the renowned Bob Morgan and enjoyed the friendship of colleagues and clients during a period which he refers to as "The Golden Era". In 1961 he and his family emigrated to America.

His achievements in veterinary research were extensive and considerable. He developed a diagnosis for 'Hardware Disease' in cattle which became known as the 'Williams Test', for which he was awarded a fellowship of the Royal College of Veterinary Science. His hard work and dedication brought him innumerable awards and honours, one presented to him by President Jimmy Carter.

He also involved himself in the community, especially the church which was close to his heart. His book is a catalogue of delightful memories and full of charming humour.

"I Fyny fo'r Nod" (Aim High) is the motto of Whitland Grammar School.


"Reflections of a Country Vet" was published in 1996.