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Brave pensioner plans to abseil 160ft for charity
George Russell
George has been volunteering for his local Cats Protection branch for more than 20 years.
Cat lover George wants to do something extra special for needy pets

A 70-year-old cat lover is planning to abseil 160ft down the Sea Walls of the Avon Gorge to raise money for one of his favourite charities.

Pensioner George Russell will bravely complete his first ever abseil next month for Swindon Cats Protection. He says he is looking forward to seeing spectacular views and hopes people will sponsor him.

"I have never done an abseil before and it sounded like a challenge. I know that some of my colleagues at Cats Protection are going to be facing down their fear of heights when they take part, but I don’t feel scared as I know I’ll be in safe hands.

"I am really looking forward to it and hope I can raise as much as possible for the charity."

George has been volunteering for his local Cats Protection branch for more than 20 years, getting involved in socialising cats, fundraising and cleaning. He and his wife have been cat fosterers and have adopted six rescue cats from the charity.

He said: "Now I want to do something extra special to help raise funds for all the cats that need it."

Cats Protection's regional fundraising manager, Rebecca Worth, said: "We are delighted that George is taking part and hope his enthusiasm will encourage other people to sign up for the challenge."

To sponsor George, visit his JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/George-Russell4/

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VMD invites students to apply for EMS placement

News Story 1
 The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is inviting applications from veterinary students to attend a one-week extramural studies (EMS) placement in July 2026.

Students in their clinical years of study have until 28 February to apply for the placement, which takes place at the VMD's offices in Addlestone, Surrey, from 6-10 July 2026.

Through a mixture of lectures and workshops, the placement will explore how veterinary medicines are authorised, non-clinical career opportunities, and other important aspects of the VMD's work.  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS members invited to question Council candidates

RCVS members have been invited to submit questions to candidates for this year's RCVS Council election.

With 15 candidates standing for three available positions, vets have been invited to submit a question of their choosing before voting starts. These questions will be collated, with each candidate answering one question of their choice.

It is recommended that members read the candidates' biographies and statements before submitting questions. One question per member can be submitted to vetvote26@rcvs.org.uk before Wednesday, 25 February 2026.

The RCVS Council election is due to start in March.

With only two candidates for two positions on the VN Council, there will be no VN Council elections this year. Meghan Conroy RVN and Lauren Hargrave RVN will begin their three year terms at RCVS' AGM in July.