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Vet scoops Livestock Advisor of the Year Award
Julian Allen is a director of Friars Moor Livestock.

Julian Allen recognised for going the extra mile to support his clients. 

Veterinary surgeon Julian Allen has been named winner of the 2020 Farmers Weekly Livestock Advisor of the Year Award.

Julian, who is a director of Friars Moor Livestock Health, received the honour in recognition of his dedication, enthusiasm and for going above and beyond to support his clients.

During his 26 years at Friars Moor, Julian has made a considerable difference to the operations of livestock farmers, helping one large Dorset dairy farm reduce its antibiotic usage by two thirds over eight years. With a focus on dairy cow health, his interests include nutrition and benchmarking herd performance.

Commenting on his achievement, Julian said: "I was honoured to be named Livestock Adviser of the Year. This work is my passion – I love working together with farmers, getting involved in all aspects of herd management and thinking through different options to improve herd health and productivity."

Friars Moor forms part of the independent veterinary group, XLVets. Runners up for the award included veterinary surgeon Ed Hill, who also hails from XLVets, and Phil Baynes, managing director of Bayes Nutrition.

Alice Renner, farm marketing executive of XLVets, commented: "We were so pleased to hear of these awards going to such hard-working and deserving people. And it’s a great accolade for our members – reflecting how XLVets practices strive for clinical excellence and really get invested in the success of their clients.

“We see the collaborative strength of the community every day in the way knowledge is shared to achieve the best outcomes for everyone’s clients, it is fantastic to see this celebrated publicly within the farming community at large."

Image (C) XLVets.

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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.