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RSPCA pays tribute to Bill Oddie OBE
"Bill was an exceptional and steadfast champion for the natural world" - Jo Rowland, RSPCA.

"Nature has lost one of its best friends" - Jo Rowland.

The RSPCA has paid tribute to former vice president Bill Oddie OBE, who has died at the age of 85.

The charity’s chief executive, Jo Rowland, described the television presenter and comedian as a tireless campaigner who inspired generations to appreciate British wildlife.

Jo said: "Everyone at the RSPCA is deeply saddened by the loss of our former vice president Bill Oddie OBE.



“While his comedy, music and, of course, work with The Goodies delighted so many, his tireless commitment to British wildlife will define so much of his extraordinary life."

Jo continued: “Bill was an exceptional and steadfast champion for the natural world, whose passion for birds and wildlife was truly infectious. 

He campaigned tirelessly alongside his many friends at the RSPCA - including taking the fight to governments against plans to cull badgers.

“I know many of our wildlife rescuers were inspired into animal welfare by Bill's groundbreaking broadcasting work and incredible knowledge of British birds, which brought the wonders of nature into millions of homes across the country.



“Nature has lost one of its best friends, fiercest champions and most iconic defenders. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and the countless people he inspired to spend time birdwatching, to cherish nature, and to build a kinder world for animals.”

Image (C) RSPCA.

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Annual submission deadline small pet animal exemptions

News Story 1
 Companies marketing medicines for small pets exempt from authorisation must submit their annual return to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) by 30 November 2026.

Submitting this annual return ensures continued compliance with regulatory requirements for products marketed without a full Marketing Authorisation. The exemption specifically applies to products intended for animals, cage birds, terrarium animals, small rodents, ferrets and rabbits.

For further details and submission guidelines, visit the gov.uk website.  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Bluetongue RZ extended across Scotland

The Scottish Government has announced an extension to a Bluetongue Restricted Zone that is in place in south-west Scotland.

From 3 October, the Restricted Zone will be extended to cover the whole of Scotland. The Animal, Plant and Health Agency (APHA) says this is in response to further disease spread, as well as simplify trading conditions ahead of the autumn.

Since the whole country will share a disease status, it will no longer be necessary to have a movement license to move susceptible livestock around the country. Restrictions on germinal products remain.

As of 1 October 2026, there were 1,979 cases of BTV-3 in England, 389 cases in Wales and 40 cases in Scotland.