A huge thank you to PathSoc and BDIAP for the opportunity to organise and celebrate another excellent educational gathering on 25th June 2026. The meeting was organised by the (BLPG), bringing together colleagues, trainees, and experts for a day packed with updates, discussion, and shared enthusiasm for the ever-evolving world of haematopathology.

The meeting, titled “Updates for Everyday Haematopathology”, took place in Manchester during a rather memorable heat wave. While we came prepared for scientific heat, Manchester decided to add a little extra excitement with some genuine summer temperatures! The city was certainly glowing — not only from the sunshine but also from its vibrant character. The colourful graffiti artwork running through the tunnels added a creative touch to the urban landscape, while the lively atmosphere around the university area, filled with busy students and the energy of academic life, made the surroundings feel wonderfully dynamic. The venue, the Manchester Business School, provided the perfect setting for a day of learning and collaboration.

The evening before the meeting, speakers and organisers gathered for a memorable dinner at the historic Midland Hotel — a location full of charm and stories. This iconic hotel is famously linked with the early agreement that led to the creation of Rolls-Royce, and guests were welcomed by the terracotta sculpture marking the exact spot where partners first met  along with a beautiful vintage Rolls-Royce on display. The setting was impressive, but the evening itself was even better. The food was outstanding, the live band brought plenty of atmosphere. The much-anticipated Conference Dinner Speech Sweepstake, with the challenge of guessing how long the two societies’ speeches would last (Prof Mohd Ilyas (Latch); Chair & Meetings Secretary of PathSoc and Dr Matthew Clarke; meetings secretary of BDIAP) were entertaining highlights. added a playful competitive spirit to the evening — proving that pathologists can analyse more than just slides!

The scientific programme on Thursday began with a keynote lecture from Dr Rob Hasserjian of Harvard USA, who opened the meeting with “Advances in Everyday Myeloid”, providing an insightful update on developments shaping current practice.

This was followed by Dr Liron Barnea-Slonim (King’s College London, BLPG Treasurer), who explored “Molecular in Everyday Myeloid”, highlighting the increasing importance of integrating molecular information into routine diagnostic approaches.

Our international guest speaker, Professor Maurilio Ponzoni of Milano, Italy, then shared his expertise on CNS lymphomas, offering valuable perspectives on this complex and challenging area.

One of the standout sessions of the day came from Prof Daphne de Jong (Netherlands), who delivered a fantastic talk on LPDs in immunosuppression. This is an area that can often feel like a diagnostic maze, but Prof de Jong had a remarkable ability to simplify, clarify, and demystify the challenges with her depth of knowledge and engaging style.

Following the break, Dr Andrew Wotherspoon  (The Royal Marsden -UK) guided attendees through the morphology, classification, and latest updates in extranodal lymphomas, providing a practical and informative overview relevant to everyday diagnostic work.

Prof Maria Calaminci (Barts -UK and the BLPG Chair) then focused on the important topic of cytological assessment of lymphoma, demonstrating how to maximise the value of fine needle aspiration (FNA) samples and make every specimen count.

Keeping the meeting firmly future-focused, Dr Richard Byers (Manchester-UK) delivered an exciting session on AI and digital advances in haematopathology, showcasing the innovative work he has developed with Martin Fergie (UK) and exploring how technology may continue to transform our diagnostic landscape.

Of course, trainees and residents were very much part of the programme. Dr Hebah Ali from Leeds (BLPG Secretary) delivered an engaging lymphoma case-based session, focusing on the practical interpretation of morphology and IHC in everyday lymphoma diagnosis.

The day concluded with the important and always valuable EQA session, delivered by Dr Malee Fernando (UK, BLPG) and Dr Anna Green (UK, BLPG), bringing together learning points, reflection, and practical lessons to support continued excellence in diagnostic practice.

Overall, it was a wonderful combination of cutting-edge science, practical education, international expertise, and the friendly collaborative spirit that makes haematopathology such a special community. The meeting in Manchester was a truly memorable meeting, both scientifically and socially.

Warmly,
Prof Maria Calaminici & Dr Hebah Ali
on behalf of BLPG Council