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New RCVS president to replace fear of College
Dr Chris Tufnell (left) with Dr Bradley Viner after receiving the presidential chain of office.

Dr Chris Tufnell calls on profession to wear badge with pride

The new president of the RCVS has called upon veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses to be proud of their profession and to feel great that they are committed to the welfare of animals in their care.

In his maiden speech, Dr Chris Tufnell said: "Sadly we often hear that there are vets and nurses who live in fear of the RCVS. This is something of which I am personally ashamed.

"Being particularly mindful of the role and fear anxiety play in mental health, I will do everything I can to replace this fear... I will encourage all hardworking vets and nurses, whichever field they are in, to wear their [MRCVS] 'badge' with pride. Feel good about what you do, feel great about what you do."

Dr Tufnell, an elected member of Council since 2009, graduated with a veterinary degree from the University of Glasgow at the age of 30, having first attained a degree in Agricultural and Environmental Science from the University of Newcastle.

Following graduation, Chris worked in a mixed practice in Herefordshire before purchasing an equine and companion animal practice in West Berkshire, which currently employs five veterinary surgeons and five support staff.

Dr Tufnell became the College's new president at RCVS day on July 15. His first official duty upon receiving the presidential chain of office from President Dr Bradley Viner was to welcome the new Junior Vice President Professor Stephen May.

During the day, new members of RCVS and VN Councils were also welcomed.

Two new members of Council - Melissa Donald and Lucie Goodwin - invited to take up their seats and their four-year terms on Council. The re-elected members, Christopher Barker, Amanda Boag, Kut Sturgess and Stephen May were also confirmed for their four-year terms.

For VN Council, the newly elected members Rachael Marshall and Matthew Rendle were formally welcomed to their four-year terms by Liz Cox chair of VN Council.

Image (C) RCVS









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Cold-water dip to raise funds for Vetlife

News Story 1
 The veterinary mental health charity Vetlife is inviting the veterinary community to join it for a sponsored cold-water dip.

The event will take place at Walpole Bay, Margate, on 17 May during Mental Health Awareness Week. Participants of all abilities can join in the challenge and are advised to bring a towel, a hot drink, a snack, and warm clothes to get changed into afterwards.

Those taking part are being asked to try to raise 100 each to support the work of the charity.

Details about how to take part can be found here. 

Click here for more...
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