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Former NOAH Code secretary recognised for contribution to animal health
Desmond Hutchinson (left) was presented with his NOAH award at a VIP lunch in London.

Former secretary of the NOAH Code of Practice, Desmond Hutchinson, has been given a special award for his contribution to animal health.

Desmond was appointed Secretary to NOAH’s Code of Practice Committee in 1997 and is set to retire in April. During his 22 years of service, he has attended more than 70 case meetings and processed some 120 cases.

Presenting the award at NOAH’s VIP lunch in London, NOAH chair James Brannan explained the importance of the Code and Desmond’s work. “He has always worked tirelessly for the Code of Practice Committee, retaining his sense of humour in what could be challenging discussions.

“Desmond’s outstanding services to our industry must be acknowledged. He is highly respected by his peers both past and present and, of course, by the NOAH secretariat. His work has assisted us in maintaining high promotional standards for veterinary medicines.”

 

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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

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News Shorts
NSA webinar explores sheep tailing and castration

The National Sheep Association (NSA) is to host a free webinar on the castration and tail docking of lambs.

The webinar, 'Understanding the tailing and castration consultation: A guide for sheep farmers', will be hosted online on Monday, 2 March 2026 at 7.30pm.

It comes during a government consultation into the methods used for these procedures. Farmers are encouraged to engage before the consultation period closes on Monday, 9 March 2026.

The webinar offers clear and actionable guidance to support farmers to contribute meaningfully to the consultation and prepare for potential changes.

On the panel will be former SVS president Kate Hovers, farmer and vet Ann Van Eetvelt and SRUC professor in Animal Health and Veterinary Sciences Cathy Dwyer. Each panel member will utilise their own specialism and expertise to evaluate risks and outcomes to sheep farming.

Find out more about the webinar on the NSA website.