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Battersea announce their new Purr Minister
Billy the cat
Billy won 23 per cent of the vote in this years' election.

Billy is Westminster's top cat

Billy, a cat owned by Mid Dorset and North Poole MP Annette Brooke, has been voted this year's Purr Minister in a competition organised by Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.

Billy won 23 per cent of the vote in this years' election, which runs annually and is open to all MPs and Lords currently holding a position in a UK constituency. Battersea say that his manifesto focusing on ‘love and care’ and edu-CAT-ion for all, struck a clear chord with the public.

Billy joins the ranks of Larry, 'the most famous cat in the land', and last year's Purr Minister Kevin, owned by Sefton Central MP Bill Esterson.  He fought off stiff competition from Archie, nominated by Stephen Hammond MP for Wimbledon, Tibbs, selected by Mark Spencer MP for Sherwood and Ripley, presented by Livingston MP Graeme Morrice.

Billy's proud owner Annette says: “I’m really thrilled that Billy has won, as I’m sure he will be, and he will be getting lots of extra treats! It has been a pleasure to be involved in this opportunity to promote rescue centres such as Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, who do such good work.

"We acquired Billy from a rescue centre in Dorset last July, and were so impressed with them. My family stay in touch, letting them know how Billy is getting on, and I would really encourage anyone looking for a new pet to rehome from a rescue.”

Battersea’s head of cattery, Lindsey Quinlan, adds: “We’re sure Billy will enjoy being the feline face of politics with his new title of Purr Minister. It was a tight race but we’re really pleased to present this coveted Battersea award to him. We know the British public love their cats and this just shows that our politicians do too.”

Image (C) Battersea Dogs and Cats Home

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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 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
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.