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Celebrity hairstylist gives Battersea dogs a makeover
Nicky Clarke with Maple the Saluki

Nicky Clarke ensures rescue hounds are the best groomed in town

Celebrity and royal hair stylist, Nicky Clarke, has preened and pampered Battersea Dogs and Cats Home’s rescue dogs ready for their red carpet debut at the Collars and Coats Gala Ball.

Nicky and his partner, fashion designer, Kelly Simpkin, are both passionate advocates of the world-famous charity.

They worked their magic on some unruly manes as they transformed Charlie the Cocker Spaniel and Maple the Saluki in the private and luxurious VIP room of Nicky’s famous London Mayfair salon.

Nicky said: “This is the biggest night of the year for Battersea dogs and I really wanted to help them dazzle as they enjoy walking the red carpet at the charity’s Gala Ball.

“We are huge supporters of Battersea and the amazing work the charity does in caring for all its special animals and it’s been a delight spending time pampering the Home’s rescue dogs.”

Kelly added: “What a great day at the salon. Not our usual customers, but Charlie and Maple were a real joy to pamper.

“They are the perfect models, and these gorgeous dogs will surely steal the show at the Collars and Coats Gala Ball.”

The spectacular fundraiser, now in its fifth year, will be held at Battersea Park’s exclusive venue Evolution on Thursday, November 7.

The event, hosted by Amanda Holden and Paul O’Grady OBE, aims to celebrate and support the charity’s work caring for lost and abandoned dogs and cats.

It will open with its unique welcome by the Home’s legendary doggy Guard of Honour, where the preened dogs will be lining the red carpet and representing Battersea’s 450 canine residents.

Battersea costs over £18 million to run each year, and receives no government funding. The Gala Ball is all about helping to increase awareness of the charity’s work.

Image courtesy of Clint Images

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RCVS announces 1CPD app update

News Story 1
 The RCVS has announced a new version of its 1CPD mobile app, with enhanced features for veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses to record their continuing professional development.

The mobile app includes a new 'what would you like to do?' shortcut for frequent tasks, a notification badge, and the ability to scan a QR code from the home screen to easily record an activity.

Users will be prompted to update the app from the App Store or Google Play the next time they log in. For more information, visit RCVS.org.uk 

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Nominations open for RCVS and VN Council elections

The nomination period for the 2026 RCVS Council and VN Council elections is now open, with three veterinary surgeon seats and two veterinary nurse seats available.

Prospective candidates can download an information pack and nomination form from the RCVS website. Individuals can nominate themselves for the elections, with the results to be announced in the spring.

Clare Paget, the recently appointed RCVS Registrar and elections returning officer, said: "If you want to play your part in influencing and moulding how the professions are regulated, and making key decisions on matters of great importance to your peers, the public and animal health and welfare, please consider standing for RCVS Council or VN Council next year."

Nominations close at 5pm on Saturday, 31 January 2026.