Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

BVA Scottish Branch welcomes new president
Gareth Hateley is a Midlothian veterinary surgeon and a recognised expert in cattle disease surveillance.
Gareth Hateley looks forward to “championing the voice of vets”.

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) Scottish Branch has named Gareth Hateley as its new president. Mr Hateley is a Midlothian veterinary surgeon and a recognised expert in cattle disease surveillance. He was elected at the association’s annual general meeting, which was held in Edinburgh on 16 May.

After qualifying from the University of Cambridge in 1986, Mr Hateley has gained almost 40 years of industry experience, working in farm animal practice, veterinary pathology, disease surveillance and veterinary leadership.

He was president of the British Cattle Veterinary Association in 2013, and has served on groups such as Ruminant Health and Welfare, and CHECS (formerly known as Cattle Health Certification Standards). He currently serves on the boards of BVDFree England and Livestock Health Scotland. 

Mr Hateley said: “It’s a big honour to take on President of the British Veterinary Association Scottish Branch. I look forward to serving BVA members in Scotland, whatever their specialities or stage of career and to represent them at the highest levels. In doing so, I will be guided by the expertise, knowledge, passion and hard work of the Scottish Branch council and BVA staff. 

“I look forward to championing the voice of vets on priority issues affecting animal health and welfare and the veterinary profession. This includes climate change, a topic that I’m passionate about. I hope to be able to contribute to the Scottish Government’s agricultural transition development as well as provide some leadership to the profession on this pressing issue.”  

Mr Hateley succeeds wildlife veterinary surgeon Romain Pizzi as BVA Scottish Branch president.

President of the BVA Malcolm Morley said: “On behalf of everyone at BVA, I am delighted to welcome Gareth as the new Scottish Branch President. Gareth’s knowledge and experience will be invaluable in championing the veterinary voice in Scotland to government, industry, farmers and our other partners. 

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Romain Pizzi for all he has done for the Branch during his term as President.”

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

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...
News Shorts
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.