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Volunteer dubbed 'London's greatest pet lover'
Phyllis and her dogs
Phyllis and her two dogs Troy and Maddie.

PDSA fundraiser honoured for 50 years of work

A devoted PDSA volunteer from Sydenham, who has dedicated 50 years of her life to fundraise for the veterinary charity, has been hailed London's 'greatest pet lover' at a special presentation in Croydon.

Phyllis Seymour, who chairs the Croydon Guild PDSA fundraising group, has raised funds at a wide variety of events, such as dog shows, sponsored walks and animal blessings. During her time as chair, it's estimated that the group has collectively raised around £250,000 for PDSA's vets and nurses to provide lifesaving veterinary care to sick and injured pets.

The milestone anniversary was marked with a presentation held at Croydon PDSA Pet Hospital where Phyllis received her Length of Service certificate and badge from Jan McLoughlin, PDSA's director general.

Speaking at the presentation John Smith, PDSA chairman, said: “Volunteers are the life blood that runs through PDSA. Each one is special; but there are some outstanding individuals, one of whom is Phyllis Seymour.

“Phyllis is a fantastic ambassador for PDSA. She has made such an incredible contribution to the charity, and her loyalty and dedication continues to be very much appreciated by everyone in the organisation – and by the pets that she helps PDSA to treat with those vital funds raised."

Commenting on her achievements, Phyllis said: "Over the years I’ve got to know the vets and nurses at Croydon Pet Hospital and have seen the great work they do. They are such a dedicated team. Knowing that the funds raised over the past 50 years have helped so many pets gives me a great feeling and I’m absolutely honoured to be recognised in this way.”

Image (C) PDSA

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RCVS announces 1CPD app update

News Story 1
 The RCVS has announced a new version of its 1CPD mobile app, with enhanced features for veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses to record their continuing professional development.

The mobile app includes a new 'what would you like to do?' shortcut for frequent tasks, a notification badge, and the ability to scan a QR code from the home screen to easily record an activity.

Users will be prompted to update the app from the App Store or Google Play the next time they log in. For more information, visit RCVS.org.uk 

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Nominations open for RCVS and VN Council elections

The nomination period for the 2026 RCVS Council and VN Council elections is now open, with three veterinary surgeon seats and two veterinary nurse seats available.

Prospective candidates can download an information pack and nomination form from the RCVS website. Individuals can nominate themselves for the elections, with the results to be announced in the spring.

Clare Paget, the recently appointed RCVS Registrar and elections returning officer, said: "If you want to play your part in influencing and moulding how the professions are regulated, and making key decisions on matters of great importance to your peers, the public and animal health and welfare, please consider standing for RCVS Council or VN Council next year."

Nominations close at 5pm on Saturday, 31 January 2026.