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CQ holds its first graduation ceremony
bob champion
Bob Champion MBE gave an inspirational speech about winning the 1981 Grand National and his fight against testicular cancer.
Bob Champion MBE presents scrolls to DipVN graduates

Awarding body Central Qualifications (CQ) hosted its first graduation ceremony for the Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (DipVN), welcoming Bob Champion MBE as guest of honour.

For the first time, graduates will be able to use the post-nominals DipVN in recognition of their achievements. CQ is also the first independent awarding body to offer a veterinary nursing qualification.

The landmark event was held at the historic Central Hall in Westminster. Guests were afforded spectacular views of Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben.

Veterinary nurses at the event represented more than 250 years of combined service.
Now a well-known film location, the venue hosted the inaugural meeting of the United Nations in 1946. It was also the meeting place of the Suffragettes in 1914 as they campaigned for votes for women.

New graduates were welcomed to the list of qualified veterinary nurses alongside their family, friends, the BVNA vice-president, CQ, Abbeydale Vetlink, the Central College of Animal Studies and Bridgwater College.

graduates
For the first time, graduates will be able to use the post-nominals DipVN.
Bob Champion, winner of the 1981 Grand National, gave an inspirational speech on his determination to succeed and his battle against testicular cancer.

Guests were given an insight into his training and perseverance, including amusing anecdotes about his upbringing and the knocks and bruises he has experienced during his life. Bob also gave everyone an insight into horse racing, the making of the film Champions about his Grand National win and his work setting up the Bob Champion Cancer Trust.

Bob and CQ director Jacqui Garrett presented graduates with the new CQ DipVN badge and a commemorative scroll. Martin Barrow, the awarding body's chair of governors, praised the sterling work of veterinary nurses and their role at the heart of the practice.

Veterinary nurses attending the event represented more than 250 years of combined service to animal welfare and nursing.

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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.