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Fire service pays tribute to ‘hero’ rescue dog
Holly with her handler Neil Woodmansey.

Labrador Holly worked for Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue

Tributes have been paid to a well-known fire and rescue dog who has sadly passed away.


Black labrador Holly (15) was one of Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue’s most renowned dogs, earning herself many awards for her work.


Working with the Urban Search and Rescue team, she was involved in rescuing casualties from events like earthquakes, explosions and building collapses.

Following the Haiti and Pakistan earthquakes, Holly helped search and rescue teams reach multiple casualties trapped in the rubble. She also assisted in the wake of the Stockline Plastics explosion in Glasgow.


In 2011, Holly was crowned Golden Oldie at the Dogs Trust Honours. The labrador ran with her handler, Neil Woodmansey, in the Olympic Torch relay and was later dubbed ‘Sleafordian of the Year’.


Since the news of Holly’s death, tributes have been pouring into Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue’s Facebook page.

One person commented: ’Pleased to have had the pleasure of meeting her and seeing her in action, so sad! Lincolnshire Fire & Rescue has lost a vital member who deserves an appropriate send-off and memorial!’

‘Another said: ‘Holly served her whole life, she is now with all the other SAR & working dogs I've had the pleasure of working with. Run painless & free Sweet Ol' Girl! SAR & other working dogs are VERY special. Their humans too.’

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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.