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Children rescue badger stuck in a pit
The pit inside the old pump house where the badger was discovered.

The RSPCA has applauded the actions of three boys from Sussex that saved a badger found in a 20ft-deep pit. Eleven-year-old brothers Elias and Idris, and their friend Aaron, discovered the stricken animal in an old pump house whilst helping on their elderly neighbour’s farm.

After spotting the badger, the boys rushed home to fetch a boiled egg and a chicken water trough and lowered them down into the pit and poured water through a hose from a watering can. The boys’ parents then called the RSPCA for help.

RSPCA inspector Liz Wheeler used her extendable net to scoop the badger out of the pit and, after examining the animal, released him back into the wild. “The three boys were lovely and did an amazing job helping this badger," she said. “I’d like to say a big well done and thank you to them - they saved this badger’s life!”

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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

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News Shorts
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.