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Brave pensioner plans to abseil 160ft for charity
George Russell
George has been volunteering for his local Cats Protection branch for more than 20 years.
Cat lover George wants to do something extra special for needy pets

A 70-year-old cat lover is planning to abseil 160ft down the Sea Walls of the Avon Gorge to raise money for one of his favourite charities.

Pensioner George Russell will bravely complete his first ever abseil next month for Swindon Cats Protection. He says he is looking forward to seeing spectacular views and hopes people will sponsor him.

"I have never done an abseil before and it sounded like a challenge. I know that some of my colleagues at Cats Protection are going to be facing down their fear of heights when they take part, but I don’t feel scared as I know I’ll be in safe hands.

"I am really looking forward to it and hope I can raise as much as possible for the charity."

George has been volunteering for his local Cats Protection branch for more than 20 years, getting involved in socialising cats, fundraising and cleaning. He and his wife have been cat fosterers and have adopted six rescue cats from the charity.

He said: "Now I want to do something extra special to help raise funds for all the cats that need it."

Cats Protection's regional fundraising manager, Rebecca Worth, said: "We are delighted that George is taking part and hope his enthusiasm will encourage other people to sign up for the challenge."

To sponsor George, visit his JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/George-Russell4/

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.