“A true inspiration.”
Dr Nicholas Larkins, the visionary vet who with Richard Cleeve founded NAF, passed away on the 29 January following a short illness. He was 78.
Nick began collaborating with Richard in the 1980s while continuing to work in equine veterinary practice.
He was passionate about the role of supplementary nutrition in equine and companion animal health. Using research and clinical evidence, he set about developing new products.
Under Nick’s guidance, NAF became the first UK company to market some now widely used supplements such as MSM, and became an early innovator in joints and gut support, and free radical biology.
Throughout his career, Nick worked with universities, research facilities and presented at international conferences.
He published widely, including peer-reviewed papers from the 1990s onwards, sharing his understanding of plant-based and nutritional active compounds.
Nick was also a veterinary advisor to equestrian teams over three different Olympic Games.
Long-lasting legacy
His legacy at NAF will be a long-lasting one, said NAF’s veterinary director, Dr Andy Richardson.
“The whole NAF team, particularly our vets and nutritionists, owe a debt of gratitude to Nick.
“He was a true inspiration, and we will always take his legacy forward, continuing to centre our unique supplements on innovation and evidence-based research.”
NAF’s head nutritionist Kate Hore added: “Nick has been an inspirational mentor throughout my career, and I can’t begin to count all that I’ve learnt from him.
“A brilliant scientist, he applied his knowledge for the very best of purposes – as we all do at NAF – simply, for the good of the horse.
“Our deepest condolences go to Nick’s wife, Miranda, and all the family at this sad time.”
