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Galloping to the Rescue!
Chase, Mark Bennet and Duncan Parsonage, community response manager.
Seven year old ‘Chase’ – an Irish sports horse - is the latest recruit to West Midlands Ambulance Service Community First Responder scheme.

Chase, an Irish sports horse and his owner Mark Bennett will soon be galloping to the rescue on Cannock Chase, responding to 999 emergency calls on behalf of WMAS, prior to the arrival of an ambulance.

Cannock Chase Country Park is one of largest country parks in the region covering 4.5 square miles (3,000 acres). With the country park being largely inaccessible by normal road vehicles, responding to incidents can occasionally prove tricky for the ambulance service.

The park attracts visitors all year round, with many enjoying activities such as horse riding, mountain biking and rambling.

With Mark’s additional knowledge of Cannock Chase Country Park and his ability to get around it quickly, he could potentially advise ambulance crews, who will often have to take to foot, of the best routes to take in order to quickly reach incidents.
Talking about the new initiative, Mark said: “As a trauma instructor for the fire service, I have always had an interest in first aid and have undertaken numerous pre-hospital care courses. I decided to join WMAS’ community response scheme a couple of years ago initially responding in Pelsall, Walsall prior to moving to Penkridge.

“I have already found myself having to put my first aid skills to the test in the country park on a couple of occasions. Being able to respond on horse back (or motorbike, if needs be) means that I can quickly access patients in difficult, hard to reach locations, prior to the arrival of the ambulance service.”


Mark, who is an experienced rider of 12 years, has kitted ‘Chase’ out to enable him to carry essential equipment to incidents including a responder bag and defibrillator.

Duncan Parsonage, WMAS Community Response Manager for South Staffordshire, said: “This is an excellent initiative that really could help to save lives. In many illnesses or injuries the first few minutes are critical and simple interventions can be performed in order to save lives or prevent disability. With Mark’s additional knowledge of Cannock Chase Country Park and his ability to get around it quickly, he could potentially advise ambulance crews, who will often have to take to foot, of the best routes to take in order to quickly reach incidents.”

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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...
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.