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Vet nurse of the year
Sam Shand awarded for outstanding dedication

Sam Shand, a veterinary nurse form Lincolnshire, has been awarded with the Blue Cross's Veterinary Nurse of the Year award.

Sam, who works at Quarrington Veterinary Surgery in Sleaford, educates children about animal welfare and raises money for several local charities in her spare time.

The award was presented at the BVNA Congress in Telford, Shropshire, by BVNA president, Claire Fraser, and Blue Cross community vet nurse, Stephanie Byers.

Sam was nominated by her colleagues at the surgery where she works. She said: "When I heard I was this year's winner I was completely gobsmacked. The news came totally out-of-the-blue and I was very moved and even quite tearful! It is so nice to get this recognition, not just for me but for all of the practice."

Head of veterinary services at the Blue Cross, Wendy Adams, said: "Our award recognises the hard work and commitment of vet nurses across the UK. They are the unsung heroes of animal welfare and many of them go the extra mile, working tirelessly to look after sick and injured pets and educate their communities about animal care.

"Congratulations to Sam who really deserves to be this year's winner."

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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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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.