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Equine friends win competition to become cover stars
“Ellie’s picture is a gorgeous reflection of perfect harmony between two field companions" - Sarah Shephard. 

Robbie and Tilly will feature on the NEF programme. 

A photograph of a pair of horses grazing together has been selected as the winner of the National Equine Forum (NEF) photography competition. 

The winning picture was taken by Ellie Taylor and will feature on the programme cover for next year’s NEF (5 March).

Ellie’s image was one of a number of beautiful equine pictures submitted by amateur photographers from around the world. 

Stunning vistas from ‘between the ears’ of grazing horses and ponies and windswept mountains and moorlands were just some of the captivating photographs judges received.

The winning picture features Ellie’s bay gelding and ex-racehorse, Robbie, and her best friend’s appaloosa mare, Tilly. Following their retirement, the pair lived together for a while in Devon and have become the best of friends. 

Ellie said of her win: “I loved looking after Robbie and Tilly as they started retired life together – they had a special bond so it’s lovely that this moment has made the front cover of the NEF programme.

“They are both continuing their (hopefully) happy retirements, albeit now in different herds in different counties.”

NEF publicity officer Sarah Shephard, said: “Ellie’s picture is a gorgeous reflection of perfect harmony between two field companions. 

“It’s the first time we have featured two horses on the NEF programme. We feel that Robbie and Tilly are very deserving of this accolade, not least because they look so content together, showing the joy of companionship.”

Image (C) Ellie Taylor.


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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.