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Vet to take on ‘toughest footrace on earth’
The Marathon Des Sables is described as 'the toughest footrace on earth'.

Kerry Allison to trek the Sahara Desert for Breast Cancer Care

A vet who survived cancer is set to take on ‘the toughest footrace on earth’ to raise funds for Breast Cancer Care.

Kerry Allison will be taking part in this years’ Marathon Des Sables - a gruelling multi-stage trek through the Saraha Desert. With temperatures reaching more than 50 degrees centigrade, Kerry will also be required to carry everything that she needs to survive, except water, on her back.

Writing on her JustGiving page, Ms Allison said: “I was diagnosed with breast cancer in Sept 2013, three days before my 40th birthday. I underwent a mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

“The years following my diagnosis were difficult, leading to my 17-year relationship with my partner breaking down.”

She continued: “Running (and biking) along with the friends I've made have always played a significant part in my life to help me through the good and the bad times. I needed something to challenge me away from my professional and personal life and their difficulties.”

Ranked by the Discovery Channel as the 'toughest footrace on earth', the Marathon Des Sables is now in its 30th year. Competitors come from all over the world to compete in the race, covering a staggering 251km over the course of seven days (the equivalent of five and a half marathons).

At the time of writing, Kerry had received 46 per cent of her £4,000 target. To support Kerry and make a donation, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/kerry-allison

Image (C) Kaisove/Wikimedia Commons

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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...
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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.