Bedbugs and false widow spiders among topics to be discussed at conference

Bedbugs and false widow spiders among topics to be discussed at conference

An upcoming conference for environmental health professionals will tackle topics impacting work in pest control.

The Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) Pest Control Conference promises a deep dive into some of the most pressing and topical issues facing the industry today.

This year’s keynote session will focus on reforming the qualification framework across the sector and will be led by John Horsley, Technical Support Officer at the British Pest Control Association (BPCA).

Brandon Collier, a Doctoral Student in the Venom Systems & Proteomics Lab at the University of Galway will be leading a fascinating session on false widow spiders and whether they present a real public health threat or if it is just media hysteria.

Other highlights include an update on research into the role of rats and mice in the dissemination of pathogens from Ana Carolina Yamakawa, Master of Veterinary Science at the University of Reading.

Another session not to be missed will be a presentation on ‘Bedbugs in 2025: New frontiers in managing infestations and raising public awareness’ which will be delivered by Alexia Naylor, Business Manager at the Bed Bug Foundation.

Nikki Pearson, Head of Events and Membership Engagement at CIEH, said:

“We’re excited to welcome a varied and highly knowledgeable range of expert speakers this year to the CIEH Pest Control Conference, each bringing unique insights into the evolving challenges of pest control and environmental health.

“Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the field, this conference offers valuable learning opportunities and a truly insightful and engaging event to enjoy.”

The half-day conference takes place online on Thursday, 2 October. View the full programme and book your place here: https://www.cieh.org/events/2025/october/cieh-pest-control-conference/

Leicester TV

Merlin Entertainments is inviting families to step into a year of magical adventures with its Spring Sale on Merlin Annual Passes. Perfect for families looking to make the most of quality time together, the pass unlocks entry to over 20 top UK attractions, including the LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Alton Towers Resort, Warwick Castle, Chessington World of Adventures Resort and more. With spellbinding savings available just in time for the Easter Holidays, from the 2nd to the 29th March, Merlin Annual Pass packs a year of family fun and adventure into incredible prices from as little as £99, which equates to just £1.90 per week. From thrilling theme parks like Thorpe Park, Alton Towers Resort and Chessington World of Adventures Resort, to fascinating aquariums, spooky dungeons and historic landmarks, the Pass offers something for everyone. Plus, with exclusive Passholder perks including discounts on food, souvenirs and short breaks, families can enjoy unforgettable days out for less. The limited time sale applies to all Merlin Annual Pass types including yearly passes and Platinum and Gold Monthly Memberships from just £16.99* per month. Adventurers can unlock a whole year’s worth of fun memories and epic moments saving up to £50** on unmissable days out. Spring Sale prices are as follows: Pass Type Usual Price Wizards Wanted Price Saving All-new Essential Merlin Annual Pass £139 £99 £40 Merlin Gold Pass £239 £189 £50 Merlin Gold Membership £19.99pm £16.99pm £3pm £36 per year total saving Merlin Platinum Pass £299 £249 £50 Merlin Platinum Membership £24.99pm £20.99pm £4pm £48 per year total saving 2026 promises to be one of the most exciting years yet for Merlin Annual Passholders. At Alton Towers Resort, the world’s first Bluey rollercoaster – Bluey The Ride: Here Come the Grannies, will open in the UK’s only CBeebies Land on 28th March. Designed for younger adventurers and their big imaginations, the first of its kind attraction whisks guests through Bluey’s backyard. Featuring Bluey’s House, selfie spots, and fun play activities, little fans can meet Bluey, Bingo and the whole Heeler family live in Big Fun Showtime. Over at Chessington World of Adventures Resort, pup-tastic fun awaits with the UK’s first and only PAW Patrol-themed land called the World of PAW Patrol, which debuts in Spring 2026. Adventure Bay comes to life with four brand new rides, including Chase’s Mountain Mission Ride, Skye’s Helicopter Heroes, Marshall’s Firetruck Rescue and Zuma’s Hovercraft Adventure, perfect for mini-thrill seekers who want to join the heroic pups on immersive rescue missions. For curious creators, the LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort will mark its 30th birthday with a year-long calendar of awesome activities and celebrations. 2026 will see the park filled with cake, live shows, LEGO® fun, with nostalgic surprises for guests of all ages, all to celebrate the iconic attraction where imaginations run free.

Merlin Entertainments is inviting families to step into a year of magical adventures with its Spring Sale on Merlin Annual Passes. Perfect for families looking to make the most of quality time together, the pass unlocks entry to over 20 top UK attractions, including the LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Alton Towers Resort, Warwick Castle, Chessington World of Adventures Resort and more. With spellbinding savings available just in time for the Easter Holidays, from the 2nd to the 29th March, Merlin Annual Pass packs a year of family fun and adventure into incredible prices from as little as £99, which equates to just £1.90 per week. From thrilling theme parks like Thorpe Park, Alton Towers Resort and Chessington World of Adventures Resort, to fascinating aquariums, spooky dungeons and historic landmarks, the Pass offers something for everyone. Plus, with exclusive Passholder perks including discounts on food, souvenirs and short breaks, families can enjoy unforgettable days out for less. The limited time sale applies to all Merlin Annual Pass types including yearly passes and Platinum and Gold Monthly Memberships from just £16.99* per month. Adventurers can unlock a whole year’s worth of fun memories and epic moments saving up to £50** on unmissable days out. Spring Sale prices are as follows: Pass Type Usual Price Wizards Wanted Price Saving All-new Essential Merlin Annual Pass £139 £99 £40 Merlin Gold Pass £239 £189 £50 Merlin Gold Membership £19.99pm £16.99pm £3pm £36 per year total saving Merlin Platinum Pass £299 £249 £50 Merlin Platinum Membership £24.99pm £20.99pm £4pm £48 per year total saving 2026 promises to be one of the most exciting years yet for Merlin Annual Passholders. At Alton Towers Resort, the world’s first Bluey rollercoaster – Bluey The Ride: Here Come the Grannies, will open in the UK’s only CBeebies Land on 28th March. Designed for younger adventurers and their big imaginations, the first of its kind attraction whisks guests through Bluey’s backyard. Featuring Bluey’s House, selfie spots, and fun play activities, little fans can meet Bluey, Bingo and the whole Heeler family live in Big Fun Showtime. Over at Chessington World of Adventures Resort, pup-tastic fun awaits with the UK’s first and only PAW Patrol-themed land called the World of PAW Patrol, which debuts in Spring 2026. Adventure Bay comes to life with four brand new rides, including Chase’s Mountain Mission Ride, Skye’s Helicopter Heroes, Marshall’s Firetruck Rescue and Zuma’s Hovercraft Adventure, perfect for mini-thrill seekers who want to join the heroic pups on immersive rescue missions. For curious creators, the LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort will mark its 30th birthday with a year-long calendar of awesome activities and celebrations. 2026 will see the park filled with cake, live shows, LEGO® fun, with nostalgic surprises for guests of all ages, all to celebrate the iconic attraction where imaginations run free.

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