Pests news from BPCA

16 May 2017

18 inch Rat makes headlines - media savvy pest controllers take note!

Massive rat in mediaOnce again, the media has taken an interest in a big rodent. The rat in question is by no means the largest on record, or indeed particularly newsworthy. Yet still we’ve spotted headlines such as “Giant rats as big as CATS found raiding bins in Devon car park by horrified pensioner” and that got us thinking…

If you’ve ever been out on a job and thought to yourself, “you know what, this would make a good news headline”, then you’re already starting to think about how to drum up a bit of good PR and get your company’s name into the papers. If you’re looking for some free PR make sure you’re the one to tip off local papers about interesting infestations, or public health concerns. Even the smallest interview in a local paper can help get your businesses name out there, and in the process, you’re helping to raise the profile of public health pest control everywhere. It’s win-win.

Have you had good exposure in local papers through a story you’ve shared with a news source? Let us know about your successes. Want some help getting your story out there? Contact media@bpca.org.uk to share your story.


Scott-Johnstone-Staff-bubbleScott Johnstone
Communications Officer

16 March 2017  |  PPC86

Source: PPC86

Highlights View all news

24 February 2026

Latest news

SURVEY: Home Office plans to change firearms licensing – tell us how it might impact you

While no new consultation has yet been launched, proposals to align shotgun licensing more closely with rifle controls could have serious implications for pest professionals who rely on shotguns for legitimate, professional use.

Read more

13 March 2025

Latest news

Hantavirus and the role of pest control in preventing its spread

Following news of a high profile Hantavirus death recently, we've put together some information on the virus and how good pest management can help stop it spreading.

Read more

06 November 2024

Latest news

CRRU UK prepares rodenticide users for 2026 certification requirements

CRRU UK confirms that from 2026, sellers of professional-use rodenticides will only accept two forms of proof of competence at the point of sale.

Read more
Latest View all news

11 March 2026

Latest news

Government confirms UK-EU alignment on biocides under new SPS agreement

The UK Government has confirmed that rules governing biocidal products will be aligned with European Union regulations as part of a new Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) agreement.

Read more

11 March 2026

Latest news

Which? Trusted Traders offer launches for BPCA members

BPCA members can take advantage of a new limited-time offer from Which? Trusted Traders aimed at helping pest management businesses stand out and win more work.

Read more

10 March 2026

Latest news

War in the Middle East pushes UK fuel prices higher

Oil prices have surged above $100 a barrel for the first time in years following conflict in the Middle East, pushing up petrol and diesel prices across the UK.

Read more