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Equine Science Student Graduates in Virtual Reality
A first for Royal (Dick) School as student graduates in Second Life.

The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies has broken new ground with its first student to take part in an online graduation ceremony at a digital University of Edinburgh in the 3D virtual world of Second Life.

Jayne Roberts, 37, was based in America and unable to return to the UK for her graduation ceremony. Instead, she attended an online ceremony via the virtual world of Second Life. Jayne's Second Life avatar wore specially designed University of Edinburgh robes and was handed a graduation scroll in the virtual realm during the ceremony on November 25.

Jayne numbered one of the first set of students to graduate from the School's MSc in Equine Science programme, through which it is possible to study equine science both online and part-time over a period of three years.

Jayne, who also completed a BSc in Equine Science from Bishop Burton College in 1996, said: “I always knew I wanted to go on at some point to complete my Masters, but living in the USA meant it was not possible. When the opportunity arose to enrol in an online, long distance MSc Equine Science programme with the University of Edinburgh, I jumped at the chance.”

She added: “I was disappointed not to make it back home to the UK for the graduation ceremony, but Second Life made it possible for me to be there. The support team were patient and encouraging and everything went great on the day. Not many people can attest to graduating with a cup of tea and their PJ's on – it was 6am here!”

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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here. 

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News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.