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In pictures: the UK's new vet school
The £45m school received a royal welcome
 
Queen tours Surrey vet school
The UK's eighth veterinary school was opened by Her Majesty the Queen (photo © University of Surrey).

 
The UK's new veterinary school got off to a royal start last week, after it was officially opened in Surrey by Her Majesty the Queen. It is only the second vet school to open in the UK since 1965 and hopes to drive world-leading 'one health' research.

A special opening ceremony saw Her Majesty tour the school's state-of-the-art facilities, meeting staff, students and one of its founding partners, Professor Noel Fitzpatrick.


Students wait for the Queen
Students awaiting the Queen's arrival.


Surrey vet school
Surrey's new state-of-the-art vet school is the result of five years of "vision, enthusiasm and determination from many talented individuals," said its executive dean, Lisa Roberts.


Noel Fitzpatrick
Noel Fitzpatrick, one of the school's founding partners, said: "

This is our legacy, and we are intensely proud to be part of this evolution in health education."


Noel changes a foot pad
Noel changed a foot pad on Scruffy the dog, so he was ready for the Queen's arrival.


Second year students
Second year students practising clinical skills.


The Queen unveiled a plaque
Her Majesty was invited to unveil a plaque to mark the occasion.


War Horse
Joey – star of the theatre production War Horse – reared up on his hind legs as the Queen's limousine departed (photo © University of Surrey).
 

 

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Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS Regional Question Time heads to Edinburgh

The RCVS is to bring its Regional Question Time (RQT) to Edinburgh for 2026.

The event will take place at Novotel Edinburgh Park in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 20 May 2026.

It will begin with supper and drinks at 6.30pm, with an evening programme from 7.30pm. This will start with an update on RCVS' activities, followed by questions and answers with representatives.

RCVS is encouraging an 'open dialogue', in which queries can be raised in a friendly, informal environment.

While discussions are expected to be audience-led, the RQT is expected address major issues including the VSA, the CMA's remedy package and the VN Vision project.

Tim Parkin, RCVS president, said: "It's an important time for the professions, and I'm looking forward to meeting colleagues in Scotland as we navigate this period of change together so we can come out stronger."

Tickets can be booked here.