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Academic honoured for service to animal medicines training
Carwyn Ellis received the SQP Award for "outstanding contribution" to animal medicines training.
Carwyn Ellis awarded the SQP Award for Outstanding Contribution.

A former academic leader at Harper Adams University has been honoured for his "outstanding contribution" to animal medicines training.

Carwyn Ellis scooped the SQP Award for Outstanding Contribution in recognition of his service to the Animal Medicines Training and Regulatory Authority (AMTRA).  

The previous head of animal welfare, production and veterinary science retired from his post last year but continues to visit Harper Adams as a lecturer.  

AMTRA chair Phil Sketchley said: “It gives me great pleasure to present the award this year for Outstanding Contribution to the Industry...[Carwyn] has made many years contribution and service to the AMTRA council as an observer, and has undoubtedly been pivotal in making the SQP and RAMA sector work and has had the respect from all involved in this sector and indeed the government bodies that control us.

“With over 30 years of contributions to the sector, Carwyn helped train the very first candidates in 1985/86 to gain their Suitably Qualified Person (SQP) status and has importantly since then helped manage the transition to a prescription-only based model in 2005 after the launch of the then-new VMR."

Phil continued: “He’s made a major influence and contribution to our sector and brought about the introduction of an approved CPD programme and also brought in the modular system of examinations which supported the introductions of the companion animal qualification, the vet nurse qualification and more recently moving us to level 5 for farm RAMAs.”

The SQP Award for Outstanding Contribution recognises individuals within the animal health sector who, during a sustained career, have made a significant contribution to the industry. Recipients of the award have also been an inspirational figure to others by demonstrating best practice and professional development.

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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.