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RCVS honours vet’s commitment to fish welfare
Professor Richards
Professor Randolph Richards CBE.

Professor Richards praised for his contributions to the field of aquaculture

A renowned vet who has dedicated his life to advocating the importance of fish health and welfare is to be presented with the Queen’s Medal - the highest honour that the RCVS can award.

Professor Randolph Richards CBE, an Emeritus Professor at the Institute of Aquaculture at the University of Stirling, was nominated by by fellow veterinary surgeon,  Dr Peter Jeffries.

Dr Jeffries praised professor Richards for his contributions to the field of aquaculture, fish health and welfare, as well as his active role in representing the veterinary profession, industry, academia and international associations.

“I’m absolutely delighted and feel incredibly honoured to be the recipient of the RCVS Queen’s Medal,” said Professor Richards. “It is particularly satisfying to receive this recognition from my veterinary peers.”

The Queen’s Medal is open to all members of the RCVS and can be awarded to one veterinary surgeon each year.

“We are proud to to present Professor Richards with this recognition of his contributions to veterinary excellence," commented Dr Bradley Viner, president of the RCVS.

“His commitment to foregrounding fish health and welfare in particular is truly exemplary, and the bestowing of the Queen’s Medal is a testament to the value of his work.”

Dr Jeffries’ nomination was supported by Professor Julie Fitzpatrick OBE, scientific director and chief executive of the Moredun Research Institute, and Professor Peter Wells, honorary professor of veterinary pharmacology and therapeutics at the University of Nottingham.

Professor Richards will receive his medal at RCVS Day on Friday, 15 July at the Royal Institute of British Architects.  

Image (C) Denny Conway of the Institute of Aquaculture

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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. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Applications open for BEVA Back in the Saddle

The British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) has opened applications for its 'Back in the Saddle' coaching programme.

The online scheme offers structured group coaching for members wanting to reflect on their career path and regain clarity. Members may be returning to work after leave, uncertain about next steps or reassessing direction.

Attendees will benefit from impartial guidance and practical tools to support their professional development. Members are encouraged to take a 'proactive, future-focused approach' to their careers.

The sessions, taking place on Wednesdays from 7.30pm-9pm, are open to BEVA members with more than five years' experience. The first session takes place on Wednesday, 3 June 2026.

Applications will close on Wednesday, 27 May 2026.