WELCOME TO OUR FIRST ISSUE OF 2023
As 2022 has ended and a fresh new year begins, here at Asian Standard we have only one thing to say – THANK
Like everyone, team Asian Standard have been reflecting on the things that occurred this past year. From the stories we have written, the year indeed has been eventful, interesting, historic, but often challenging and turbulent. Irrespective, those of you reading this, can take comfort that we have seen it through.
We have immense gratitude for all those who have trusted Asian Standard to share their stories. From devastating news to new business openings, to achieving accolades, thank you for allowing us to be your voice.
Every time we read and edit a story, we re empowered and comforted by the fact that there are people out there fulfilling their own missions to turn a difficult story into a good story. By doing what you do, we get to fulfil our mission by delivering the message that we all have a voice and the power to make a difference.
2022 has been great year for events post the pandemic. We thank everyone for the invitations and celebrations, at your events and those for attending and celebrating at our events. We hope to attend and deliver many more events in 2023.
Along with our loyal readers we of course could not have gotten through this year without our sponsors and advertisers, of whom without we cannot fund our journalism. We thank each and every one of you for your business through what has been a big growth and rebuilding year of Asian Standard. It's a year which has seen us clinch the Best Publication Award at the Asian Media Awards and move into new and bigger premises to continue our growth and have more exciting content and news for you in the years to come.
We are proud to announce our charities of the year Bradford Hospitals Charity and Forget Me Not Children s Hospice, after all community is at the heart of everything we do, and we are sure our readers will help us with their donations to these fantastic causes.
Let's start the year by celebrating the cities, most Influential South Asians of 2022.
Hello 2023
Glasgow City Council has approved plans to erect a memorial in Scotland to recognise the service and sacrifice of
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak during an interview refused three times to reveal whether he uses private healthcare or not.
When asked during an interview with BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg programme if he was or had ever been registered with a private GP, Mr Sunak replied "Healthcare was a personal choice."
"I grew up in an NHS family. My dad was a doctor, and a mum who was
more than four million Indian soldiers in the British Army.
The plans for the memorial, which
pharmacist," The BBC quoted the UK Prime Minister as saying.
He said "We should be making use of the independent sector so patients could choose where they have treatment."
On whether National Health Service (NHS) was "in crisis", he said "It is undeniably under pressure."
The recovery from the pandemic was "going to be tough", he said but was optimistic to overcome the problem.
will come up near Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow, were submitted by Colourful Heritage -- a group that captures first-hand accounts of first-generation South Asians in Scotland, The Glasgow Times reported.
Glasgow City Council approved the plan subject to conditions, which include full details of the designs and content of carvings into the stone.
Samples of the materials for the pavilion and surrounding blocks have also been submitted for approval, according to the paper.
The upcoming structure will feature a 'Chattri' (dome) design for the roof and Locharbriggs sandstone columns, matching the Kelvingrove architecture.
Pillars will be carved creating a South Asian design, and cherry trees will be planted along with benches for people to sit and reflect.
Indian Army soldiers in the UK were from modern day Pakistan, India and Bangladesh.
The memorial will represent the diversity of Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians and Gurkhas who fought alongside British troops during the First and Second World Wars.
It will also highlight the special link between Scotland and Force K6 -- the allMuslim Punjabi regiment that escaped from Dunkirk during World War II and made their way to Scotland, as per reports.
Snapchat has announced the departure of a major feature from its layout recently.
The instant messaging app decided to shut down on its camera app for the desktop which allowed users to choose from a variety of filters from cat ears to pirate hats to apply during video calls.
On the support page of the app's website, a message was posted which notified users that 'on 25 January 2023, Snap Camera will no longer be available to use or download'.
"You can continue using Lenses on your computer with Snapchat for Web," the message further read.
The camera feature was introduced to the app in 2018. At the time it was available to use with apps like Skype, YouTube, Zoom and Google Hangouts. Available on both Mac and Windows operating systems, it allowed users to switch different filters during a video call or a live stream.
On Twitter, the messaging app announced that it was now focusing more on making the Camera Kit access more expansive for a better experience on web.
"Hi there, thanks for asking! We're adjusting our web-based investments for the AR creator and developer community to focus on expanding access to Camera Kit for Web. Stay tuned for more info this year, and you can keep using Lenses on your
computer with Snapchat for Web," the app's tweet read.
Earlier in June 2022, Snapchat had formally unveiled Snapchat+, a premium membership at USD3.99/month service that will give users access to unique features including the option to alter the app icon and the ability to know who has rewatched your stories.
According to TechCrunch, the company had said that it is testing this capability, although it did not provide any information. It has now formally established Snapchat+. With additional nations to be added shortly, the new subscription plan will debut in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
Meta-owned WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new feature called -- 'Chat Transfer', which will allow users to transfer their data from one Android device to another using a local network.
According to WABetaInfo, the company will bring the new feature to a future update of the app as it is in the developing stage.
With this feature, users will be able to transfer chat history to a new device by scanning the QR code.
It will eliminate the need for Google Drive, so users will no longer have to back up their chat data to the cloud service if they want to transfer the chats from one device to another, said the report.
Meanwhile, WhatsApp also launched a proxy support for users all over the world, like millions of
people in Iran and elsewhere who continue to be denied the right to communicate freely and privately.
Choosing a proxy will enable them to connect to WhatsApp through servers set up by volunteers and organisations around the world dedicated to helping people communicate freely.
"We are making it easier for anyone to connect to WhatsApp using a proxy. So when a connection to WhatsApp is blocked, people have the power to restore access," said Will Cathcart, Head of WhatsApp.
An Indian man faces up to three years in prison if convicted of outraging a woman's modesty, was reportedly drunk during a New York to New Delhi flight on 26 November.
Shankar Mishra, a former vice president of operations for banking giant Wells Fargo, was arrested in India for allegedly urinating on an elderly woman during the Air India flight.
Indian police say the man, aged 34, was detained in the southern city of Bengaluru following the incident.
Mishra, was transported to the Indian capital on Saturday 7 January, where he was put in custody for 14 days while police investigate.
If convicted the man, who was fired from his job at a high-profile banking firm following the allegations, faces up to three years in prison.
The Times of India newspaper reported the suspect saying that he was drunk at the time of the alleged incident and that he could not
believe what he had done.
Air India only filed a police complaint this week regarding the incident, citing that the crew did not summon police upon landing in New Delhi as they believed that the two people involved had sorted out the issue between them.
Meanwhile, Air India said it had issued written notices and grounded one pilot and four cabin crew in relation to the incident.
The company had faced criticism on social media over its decision to prevent the man from flying with them for 30 days - a ban which activists said was not long enough.
The airline's CEO and managing director, Campbell Wilson, said in a statement: "Air India acknowledges that it could have handled these matters better, both in the air and on the ground and is committed to taking action."
A man has been ordered to pay over £1,000 after working as a door security at a Bradford pub without a licence.
Haider Zaheer was working the door of the Ginger Goose on Market Street on Saturday 2 April without a proper licence from the Security Industry Authority – an offence which led to him appearing in Bradford and Keighley Magistrates Court on Thursday.
Zaheer, of East Bath Street in Batley, pleaded guilty to a charge of operating as a door supervisor “other than in accordance with a licence issued under the Private Security Industry Act.”
The 21-year-old was fined £323 and ordered to pay £600 in costs and a £129 surcharge.
The case was brought by the Security Industry Authority – a body set up to regulate the industry and prosecute anyone who does not follow laws relating to security staff.
Ginger Goose PubMagistrates were told that Zaheer was asked to produce his licence on 2 April by a police officer on patrol with a licensing officer.
director Stephen Garber were also due to appear in court on Thursday on charges relating to Zaheer being deployed to work at the pub.
Neither Garber, of Brookfield Road, Bradford, nor anyone from the company appeared, and the court issued a warrant for Garber.
Mark Chapman, one of the SIA’s criminal investigations managers, said: “This is another example of our partnership working improving public safety, in this case with West Yorkshire Police and Bradford City Council.
“When people visit their local pubs and clubs, they can reasonably expect that they can do so in a safe environment.
“The SIA’s licensing regime is there to protect the public and Zaheer by his actions sought to undermine it. In working as an unlicensed door supervisor he put the pub’s staff and patrons at risk. He has now been sentenced and has received a criminal conviction as a result.”
Every year with the help of our readers, we are able to compile our annual list of key influencers and movers and shakers of Kirklees. This year we were particularly looking for influencers, who have used their position to help those going through difficult times with the cost of living crisis and
have helped improve society, business, and our environment.
Earning money and achieving success is surely hard work, however being able to have influence is something that only a special few can command. These influencers can help make or break a decision, help set trends
Masood Ahmed has been a Dewsbury councillor for the last 16 years and is the incumbent Mayor of Kirklees. Masood has worked in the public sector for over 30 years, firstly as Youth worker then going on to work as a specialist outreach worker, encouraging adults back into education. He then moved on to a more enhanced Alcohol & Drugs Team supporting adults through Lifeline, and then worked for Children's Services again specialising in drugs work, supporting young people, parents and professional in education and prevention work around drugs and alcohol awareness.
Masood was very honoured in 2006 to be elected in Dewsbury South Ward and thoroughly enjoys his role. He has chaired District Area Committees and Licensing and Safety Committee, been a member of the Fostering and Adoption Panel and chaired Kirklees Council Community Safety Partnership Executive. He is currently a member of the Police and Crime Panel. He has also served on the Kirklees Council Cabinet for 2 years holding the portfolio for Schools, Community Safety and Cohesion.
but also use their status for the good of their industry or community. So, we set out to find out just who are the most influential within Kirklees’ South Asian community. This year again we have received a huge number of nominations, and we would like to thank each and every one
of you who took time out to nominate.
This made the task even more difficult of shaving down the list to the final 16. However, thanks to our panel made up of our editorial team and input from public figures this has finally been achieved. It wasn’t easy trust us as there are so
many who are doing some incredible work and deserving of recognition, that it was a real challenge to get to our final influencers. The list is in no particular order and brings forward men and women from all sectors of business, politics, sport, entertainment, and charity and here they are:
Yunus is a solicitor advocate with more than 25 years post qualification experience, specialising in Employment and Discrimination Law. He is a partner and head of the Employment Law department at the Leeds and Yorkshire based law firm Ison Harrison.
Yunus is frequently approached by the media to comment upon discrimination in the workplace and sport. He regularly provides expert commentary on national and local media including BBC News and Radio 5 Live, Sky News and has also been featured in the written press.
Throughout the course of his career, he has put his legal knowledge and experience to sound practical application within football, where he has a long and successful involvement dating back to 2004, when he was appointed by the FA on to its original Race Equality Advisory Group. He was reappointed on to each of the subsequent FA Race Equality Advisory Groups and took over as Chair in 2014 from Lord Hermon Ouseley, when he also represented the Group on the full FA Council, becoming the first Muslim to serve on the FA Council.
The Kirklees lawyer holds influence as a chair of; The FA Criminal Records Panel, The FA National Serous Cases Panel, The FA General Appeals Panel and is also the BAME Representative on the Liverpool FC Supporters' Committee.
Among his local influences Yunus coaches and is chair of his local grassroots club Mount Pleasant Juniors FC and served as Vice chair of the Madina mosque in Batley, West Yorkshire, along with hosting a weekly discussion show on British Muslim TV called Sports Talk.
Shabir Pandor is an elected member of Batley West Ward and the leader of Kirklees council, representing the Labour party. Shabir has been named in the influential list for three consecutive years and retains his position as elected leader of Kirklees council, who has managed to gain a majority council for his party in the last local elections.
Throughout his time at Kirklees council, he has tried to tackle inequality and help save local NHS services. He is the first councillor in the UK to be of Indian Muslim heritage to be a council leader.
As council leader Cllr Pandor is involved and included in major decisions that impact on the residents of Kirklees. Cllr Pandor also sits on various boards, and holds the portfolio for Business, economy and innovation as part of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority.
Heckmondwike born and bred entrepreneur Shakeel Faraz has been using his business influence not only to build his business empire, but to give back to charity and help raise the profile of aspiring youngsters who want to go into sport. Shakeel is back in our influential list, as he has continued to selflessly use his influence to give back to the local community.
The pandemic has created a tough environment for us all, but it has been particularly hard on those people with vulnerabilities. Despite being comfortable having built a successful business empire, hiring cars for events and offering accident management services, Shakeel knows full well what it is like to live in poverty and that’s one of his key motivators to keep giving back. The entrepreneur launched Heckmondwike’s first food bank, which has proved to be instrumental for local people battling with food poverty. However, it’s not just the giving and donating, but it’s Shakeel’s ability to use his influential links and resources to also make final wishes come true. The philanthropist heard about a local man who was terminally ill but had one last wish of driving a sports car before he died. Shakeel immediately drove his luxury Porsche 911 to the dying man’s home address and not only filled the car with fuel but took the man for a drive in the luxury vehicle, concluding the day with lots of gifts for the man and his family. The gentleman sadly died a few weeks later, but thanks to Shakeel he ticked off his bucket list. Shakeel certainly proves that a lot can be achieved when power and influence is used in the right way.
Zeb Pervaiz is the managing Director of SKA Developments. He has features again as one of Kirklees’ most influential with his impactful, innovative city living project Renaissance Work, which is about to transform student and city living in Kirklees. Following the phenomenal success of driving forward his more than four decade old family business SKA Textiles, Zeb now plays an integral role in developing the SKA property portfolio for SKA Developments, another family business. Zeb delivered his first property development project, Thread Works in 2013 and continues to deliver on the ambitious plans to bring further regeneration to Huddersfield town centre. Along with the transformative Renaissance Works (the former Co-Op building) Zeb is also working on the £150 million Greater Waterfront Quarter in partnership with Kirklees Council. Previous clients of SKA Textiles included Debenhams, River Island, Adidas, Nike, Reebok, Marks and Spencer and the Arcadia group- to name just a few.
Ashraf Esat is the Managing Director of Hunters Dewsbury. Despite graduating with a Law degree from the University of Hull in 2001, Ashraf has dedicated more than two decades of his life in the property industry. His legal background has helped him gain a vast knowledge of the legalities and the Conveyancing process which has allowed him to give sellers, buyers, tenants and landlords an added insight into transactions. Ashraf and his team manage large Commercial and Residential Portfolios and has become a well-known figure within the community when it comes to buying and selling property Ashraf is also well known for his philanthropy and has been supporting many local sports clubs and charities across the region.
Moin Valli is founder and owner of Valli opticians. Valli has grown considerably over the years and now includes multiple practices throughout the Yorkshire and North West region and beyond, with a strong focus on local eye care, supporting the ethos of shopping locally and caring for the community. As a family business that also believes in employing locally, Valli strives to make a positive impact on the surrounding area, being actively involved in initiatives for local schools, businesses and charities. One of their initiatives, The Valli Rally, is an annual countryside trek that raises money for Outlookers and encourages people to gather, get active and connect with one-another. Moin and his team have most recently celebrated a UK first by opening the first University based eye clinic. The £18 million eye clinic is a unique partnership between the University of Huddersfield and locally-based independent chain Valli Opticians. The practice, which offers all the services of a high street optician, is open to the public and is based on the University of Huddersfield campus.
Taking up the whole of the ground floor of the Joseph Priestley (East) Building, the new facility allows students to develop key clinical skills aligned with modern optometric practice in a real-life setting.
The three-year BSc (Hons) Optometry course saw its first intake in September 2019 and the course is now accredited for 68 students by the regulator, the General Optical Council. Demand is high and there were 400 applications this year.
Moin Valli, has always been closely involved with the local community offering free eye tests in schools and recognised the potential of a joint venture with the university.
Ahmed Mulla is one of the owners of Mullaco Foods, based in Saville Town, Dewsbury. Mullaco Foods was opened in 1981 and is perhaps one of the first shops in the area to be a specialist provider of food for the Asian market by offering fresh fruit, vegetables and Halal meat.
Ahmed has revolutionised South Asian shopping by introducing online shopping, to his store, where this wasn’t the business method for traditional Asian supermarkets. As well as being able to purchase items from the website, Ahmed’s innovative ideas have introduced recipe ideas for customers, as well as advice on spices. There is also an ‘Indian Vegetable Dictionary’ to help shoppers identify the ingredients that they need.
The brand presence and influence of Mullaco has resulted in customers visiting them from all over the country and even from across the globe, for specialist Asian spices.
Mullaco is a family focused business and therefore have huge respect among locals in the community, who see the supermarket brand as the go to place not just for their shopping but for any community support and advice.
Raj Handa is Managing Director of the Lassic Group.
Lassic Group is a family-owned business with existing UK distribution facilities in both Bradford and Brighouse, as well as staff and manufacturing bases in the Far East and South America.
The well-known businessman saw huge growth last year, as his company moved into new distribution premises, creating fifty new jobs, bringing the total number of employees to 150.
Raj’s company sources, imports and distributes a vast range of household products and furniture to both national and independent retailers throughout the UK and Europe.
It is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of quality flat-packed furniture and home furnishings
Along with being a successful businessman, Raj and his brother Suresh use their platform to help and support the local community. Raj’s philanthropic work goes back to 2014 when he set up the popular Playworld entertainment centre at the back of The Croppers off Westbourne Road in Marsh and has been a generous benefactor.
He and his brother funded a whole day of feeding frontline staff including doctors and nurses who were battling the pandemic in 2020 and named the Food 4 Heroes project.
Razwana Mahmood is headteacher of Carlton Junior and Infant School in Dewsbury. She took over the failing school almost a decade ago, and with strong leadership, transformed the school into an award-winning top performer.
Under Razwana’s leadership Carlton Junior and infant School, has seen the likes of Malala Yusufzai visit and commend the students. The school has pioneering awards under its belt and has been mentioned in several reports as one of the top performing schools in Yorkshire Razwana has used her influence to create strong partnerships to help her students participate and be included in community-based activities, such as the creating awareness art with Members of the Artists Attic Trust for Huddersfield station. The children decorated six sculptures in bright paint, which were then put on display at Huddersfield station.
Mayor of Kirklees, Masood Ahmed, also made Carlton Junior and Infant school his first official appointment as Mayor, where he met inspirational students.
Harpreet Uppal following an intense four-way selection battle has been chosen as the Labours’ Prospective parliamentary candidate for Huddersfield, when Barry Sheerman steps down at the next general election.
Harpreet Uppal could become Huddersfield’s first ever female MP if she wins the seat. With Labour leading in opinion polls against the Tories, this could indeed become a reality, for Harpreet. Harpreet has previously served as a Labour councillor for Ashbrow, making her the first Sikh councillor in Kirklees and Yorkshire.
Harpreet’s strong connections and links with Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, who described her as ‘a genuine pioneer’ is helping garner support for her political campaign to enter Westminster. The Fartown resident is certainly making political waves.
Farkhanda Hussain Butt has continued to leave a mark in business and community and makes it to our influential list once again. The award winning business woman left her teaching profession more than 18 years ago to join the family businessThe Shire Bed Company as a Marketing Director. Using her skills and experience in negotiation, business planning, and marketing strategy Farkhanda along with her husband have established a multi-million-pound company which employs more than 70 people.
Established for nearly 25 years, the Dewsbury company’s ongoing commitment to investment in its facilities, staff and machinery has ensured that Shire remains ahead of the game, investing nearly £2.5 million expanding and upgrading its facilities, including new top-of-the range automated machinery to help speed up processes.
This has enabled the business to make significant in-roads into the hospitality sector where Shire now accounts for 30 per cent of all university beds. It also supplies beds to care homes, making it a valuable asset to the local economy. This has resulted in the company recently winning the coveted Product of the Year award at the National Bed Federation’s (NBF) annual awards ceremony in Telford. In addition to this, Farkhanda has used her influence and marketing expertise to secure significant partnerships with the county’s sporting elite including Yorkshire County Cricket Club and Leeds Rhinos
Sofia Buncy was born, raised, and educated in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire. She completed her Honours Degree in Behavioural Sciences at the University of Huddersfield and further went on to complete a Postgraduate Diploma at the same institute in Professional Studies: Youth and Community.
Sofia has amassed almost two decades of experience in the voluntary/community sector both within the local authority, grassroots communities as well as at an International NGO level.
Sofia is the pioneering co-founder and National Coordinator of the multi-award-winning Muslim Women in Prison resettlement programme evidenced by three ground-breaking pieces of research which she has co-authored. The programme is the first of its kind in the UK and is based at the Khidmat Centres in Bradford. She combines her current professional role with her activism and passion for interfaith, youth and community development, charitable work, and social and civil cohesion. Sofia has won many awards and accolades for her work, is appointed into the role of a DL and was honoured with a MBE in the Queen’s New Years Honours List 2022. For her continued work in community, Sofia was also awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Bradford.
Seeing women excel in sport is one thing, but helping and empowering women get into sport is another. Rashida Saloo continues to make it into our most influential women in Kirklees list, thanks to her award-winning organisation Ready Steady Active which has been hugely influential in inspiring women and children to rediscover benefits of sport. She has helped establish sports clubs such as the Batley Ninja’s and hosts a range of sporting activities for women across Kirklees to get involved in.
Rashida was shortlisted for the community award at the 2017 Sunday Times Sportswomen of the Year Awards and won a special recognition award for her tennis initiative at the 2016 British Ethnic Diversity Sports Awards and was very recently awarded the Huddersfield Town Foundation’s Premier League Kicks Facilitator award and Sports Diversity award at the Sport and Football Biz Awards. Rashida has been influencing women to keep up with sport and physical activity by producing innovative and fun videos to help people stay active at home and outdoors. She has recently taken on a project for rounders UK, helping women and children be introduced or reintroduced to the game and increase participation. The award winning sports woman is using her close community connections and influence to help women break cultural and personal barriers to get active in physical activity
Khatiza Bibi is the leading force behind Huddersfield based Deluxe beds.
Deluxe beds is a family run bed manufacturer based in Kirklees and has won several awards over the years, including being a finalist in the British Muslim Awards
Along with achieving business success Khatiza also commits a considerable amount of time in supporting local causes, such as donating beds to Leeds’ St James Hospital.
Deluxe Beds was also the recipient of Huddersfield Town’s Shooting Star award last October. The long-standing award recognises the great work of businesses around Yorkshire and is presented to the winners on behalf of Huddersfield Town and Club Partner, Lucas Lee.
The female led company were also crowned the best diverse business at the Kirklees Diversity, Equality, and Innovation Conference & Awards in September last year.
Khatiza’s workforce consists of 15 different nationalities speaking 11 languages, mainly drawn from the local community with many belonging to disadvantaged ethnic minority groups.
Habiban Zaman is a Labour councillor for Batley East, who has been serving her community for more than three decades.
Habiban has served three MPs in her constituency; Mike Wood, Jo Cox and Tracy Brabin helping them with efforts to drive out hatred and empower women and those from minority backgrounds. It is for this effort Habiban was awarded the British Empire Medal and a British Community Honours Award.
Habiban is very well connected with the local community and has proved her influence, when she was honoured by a church community centre for her outstanding contributions to local people and for being an outstanding friend, with a painting of her.
Habiban is a proactive councillor and sits on many panels and boards, which includes the West Yorkshire Joint Services committee, Batley Cricket, Athletic and Football Club (formerly Batley Bulldogs), One Adoption Panel.
That’s our list, but we know there are many more to add to this list, who using their platforms are doing incredible work and we celebrate each and every one of them.
Huddersfield patients are facing long waits and being referred elsewhere as the town’s NHS services are pushed to their limits.
Hospitals across the whole of West Yorkshire are facing “significant pressures” due to an increased number of patients, staff shortages, and a higher incidence of respiratory illnesses.
Accident and Emergency departments are overcrowded and “all but the most urgent” surgeries are being cancelled.
The situation is no different at Huddersfield Royal Infirmary with a spokesperson for the Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust (CHFT) explaining the measures being taken to cope with the high levels of demand.
They said: “Our A&E departments in both Halifax and Huddersfield hospitals are under extreme pressure. We have seen a significant increase in the number of attendances at both sites. The safety of our patients is paramount, and we assess and see patients in the order of clinical priority.
“Anyone considered a low clinical priority could have a long wait or may be referred elsewhere. We are asking the public to help us help those most in need by only attending A&E or calling 999 for life or limbthreatening conditions. Please visit NHS 111 online or call NHS 111 if you need health advice and support.”
On Thursday 5 January a statement was released by the West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board
(WYICB) about the pressures faced by the region’s NHS services. It said: “Like other parts of the country, health and care services in Yorkshire remain under significant pressure due to the number of people attending A&E, calling NHS111, accessing GPs, community and
mental health services and calling 999. The increase in the number of people seeking help is alongside the challenges of a difficult winter.
“Health and care staff across every sector, including the voluntary community social enterprise sector, are working extremely hard under tremendous pressure to support and care for people. We thank each one of them for all that they’re doing to keep people safe and well, around the clock, every single day.
“It’s very important that people who need medical care come forward, especially when someone has a life-threatening illness or injury. A range of services are available to ensure Accident and Emergency Departments (A&E) are freed up to treat those with lifethreatening and critical illnesses or injuries.”
WYICB went on to reiterate the importance of using 111 for quick health advice when it isn’t an emergency and only calling 999
when absolutely essential.
It was also reported earlier last year that West Yorkshire’s health and social care sector were experiencing difficulties in recruiting staff. At this time, 14.1% of positions in Kirklees’ mental health services were vacant and money going unspent.
As a result, efforts were being made to up the number of health and social care recruits in the borough through the Calderdale and Kirklees Health Care Programme –encouraging young people to enter a career in the sector, and overseas recruitment.
Luke Patel is a Partner at Leeds law firm Blacks Solicitors LLP specialising in commercial dispute resolution and heads up that team.
Luke has been named Leeds' most 'Influential South Asian 2021 by Asian Standard readers. Described in the Legal 500 as “exceptional” he primarily acts for individuals, owner managed businesses and SME’s in a wide range of sectors.
Defence for noise-induced hearing loss which they claim had been caused during military service.
The High Court has rejected an attempt by a firm of solicitors to issue multiple claims on a single Claim Form.
Mansion Place Limited (“MPL”) was a property developer and it contracted Fox Industrial Services Limited (“FISL”) to build student accommodation in Nottingham. There were delays with the construction which FISL stated was due to the pandemic and MPL’s failure to give vacant possession of the site on time. MPL, on the other hand, claimed that the delay was due to FISL’s failure to progress the works and to commit sufficient labour and resources to the project.
In the case of Abbott & Others v Ministry of Defence Hugh James Solicitors represented 3,500 Claimants who were all seeking damages against the Ministry of
Hugh James sought to issue all 3,500 claims on one Claim Form for which there would be one issue fee payable to the court rather than 3,500 separate fees for each Claim Form.
The High Court Master ruled that it was impermissible to join multiple Claimants with widely different claims on a single Claim Form. The Master said that although the individual claims all
featured a common Defendant with some common themes, they were “far too disparate” and that they consisted of “a huge variety of unitary claims”.
Further, the Master noted that placing 3,500 separate claims with one Claim Form would put an impossible strain on the courts’ computerised case management system. He referred to an instance where the court staff had mistakenly closed an entire group action when they were informed
that (only) one of the cases from the group had settled. The Master directed that unless individual Claim Forms were issued within 6 months then the claims would be struck out.
Under English Law, it is possible to bring group actions where multiple Claimants issue one Claim Form. For example, the Claimants seeking compensation against car manufacturers in the diesel emissions litigation is being pursued as a group action. The ability to issue a group claim under a single Claim Form undoubtedly increases access to justice as, currently, Claimants need to pay a court issue fee equivalent to 5% of the value of their claim up to a maximum of £10,000 and this could be unaffordable for many Claimants who do not qualify for a fee remission, particularly in the current economic climate.
However, given that it is the Government’s intention to make the courts self-sufficient and less reliant on public funds, it is understandable that judges may view attempts to avoid paying court fees as an abuse of process. Therein lies the dilemma, affordability over access to justice even if it is at the expense of the taxpayer. Are we slowly creeping towards the privatisation of the court system?
Blacks Solicitors can provide assistance on all aspects of court and tribunal proceedings. If you require advice or assistance then please contact Luke Patel on 0113 227 9316 or email him at “LPatel@ LawBlacks.com”.
Bollywood actor Sidharth Malhotra has posted a video of filmmaker Rohit Shetty on Instagram with his right hand completely bandaged.
Sidharth will be seen playing the lead role in Rohit's upcoming series 'Indian Police Force'.
The filmmaker got injured when he was shooting a car action sequence on the sets in Hyderabad.
Sidharth also posted a video with him on Instagram. He wrote "A true master leads by example. We all know about @itsrohitshetty Sir's love for action and his passion towards the stunts he directs. Last night while performing a CAR STUNT action piece HIMSELF, he met with an unfortunate accident. After a sleepless night and a minor surgery he's back on set in less than 12 hours. Sir, you are an inspiration to all of us. Love n Respect."
In the video, the filmmaker expressed his gratitude and said "Thank you for all the concerns, prayers and so many calls. Nothing major has happened, just stitches in two fingers, that's it we are back to work."
Sidharth added "It's only him guys. The whole crew is here. He is all good, the OG rockstar. It's not even 12 hours and he's back on set."
Rohit also posted a picture from the sets and wrote in the caption "Another car topple...But this time with stitches on two fingers...Nothing to worry about, I am absolutely fine...Thank you so much for your love and concern... Shooting Indian Police Force for Amazon Originals in Hyderabad."
'Indian Police Force' also stars Vivek Oberoi and Shilpa Shetty Kundra in the lead roles and will premiere on Amazon Prime Video.
Bollywood actor Ajay Devgn's nephew Aaman Devgn is all set to make his Bollywood debut with Abhishek Kapoor's directorial action film.
As per media reports, he is all set to launch Aaman in his movie.
The shooting for this untitled project will be starting soon.
A source close to the production house told Pinkvilla "Abhishek Kapoor has been willing to explore the action-adventure space for a while now and his next story pushes him in this unchartered territory as a director. He is very excited to take the film on floors. He launches Aaman Devgan with the film, and it's an exciting space to tap on at this point of time. The film will be produced by Pragya Kapoor with Ronnie Screwvala."
According to the reports, Abhishek needed new and well-established faces and thus he thought of Ajay and Aaman. This will be Ajay's second time collaboration with Abhishek as earlier he did a cameo in his 2016 film 'Fitoor'.
"It's a big scale action adventure and the team is planning to create a certain world for the film. The characters will be presented in a certain way in this unique world of adventures created by Abhishek. The yet untitled film is slated to go on floors in the next few months," the source added.
On the work front, Abhishek is known for his movies such as 'Rock On', 'Kai Po Che', 'Fitoor', 'Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui', 'Kedarnath', among others.
Director Hansal Mehta is back with another hard-hitting story titled 'Faraaz', based on the real-life terrorist attack that ravaged a Dhaka cafe in 2016, which will release on the big screen on 3 February.
Filmmaker Hansal Mehta said, "To me, Faraaz is a story of our polarised times. Through the one event that rocked Dhaka - the 2016 attack on the Holey Artisan cafe - I've tried to explore the broader theme of violence and what really drives young, vulnerable minds towards it."
"Designed as a nail-biting thriller that plays out over one tense night, my attempt
with Faraaz has also been to shine a light on the immense courage and humanity that it takes to stand up against violence. Because standing up against bigotry and the carnage it triggers is the only way to defeat it."
The film stars Zahan Kapoor, Aditya Rawal, Juhi Babbar, Aamir Ali, Sachin Lalwani, Palak Lalwani and Reshham Sahaani in the cast.
Producer Anubhav Sinha added "Faraaz is a story that needs to be told and Hansal has done justice to the story of the catastrophic event that shocked the world. It is a story about a hero who made
a brave choice and celebrates the spirit of a young boy who stood tall for his loved ones."
Producer Bhushan Kumar said, "Faraaz will surely strike a chord in your heart as it celebrates bravery, friendship, and humanity at its core. I am glad to be associated with such an important film."
The film is directed by Hansal Mehta, and produced by Bhushan Kumar, Anubhav Sinha, Sahil Saigal, Sakshi Bhatt and Mazahir M. The film is jointly produced by T-Series and Benaras Media works in association with Mahana Films.
Actor Vijay Deverakonda's fans are truly lucky.
The 'Liger' star comes up with exciting gifts every year to make Christmas and New Year more special for his fans. This year, he is sending his 100 fans to Manali as a New Year gift from his initiative #Deverasanta2022.
Taking to Instagram, Vijay dropped a video in which he said, "Happy New Year, my love. This is a 'DeveraSanta Update'. I told you that I am going to send 100 of you on an all-expenses paid trip holiday, food, travel, and accommodation on me. I asked you guys where you want to go and every pole chose the mountains, so to the mountains we go."
He added, "I am sending 100 of you on a 5-day trip to Manali. You are going to see snow-capped mountains. You are going to see temples and monasteries, and we have a lot of activities planned! If you are 18+, I am sorry you have to be 18+, and you have been following me, just fill out the attached 'Devera Santa google document form and we are going to pick 100 of you".
Actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu revealed the toughest part of shooting for 'Shakuntalam' and shared pictures from the training session.
Taking to Instagram, the 'Oo Antava' star treated fans with a video of her pet dog and behind-thescenes picture from her upcoming movie sets.
Samantha was seen posing gracefully as her character in 'Shakuntalam' and flaunted her curves in the picture from a training session.
In the video, her pet dog Sasha could be seen lying on a couch.
Along with a post, she wrote a hilarious caption mentioning how grace is not either hers or Sasha's thing.
The caption read, "The toughest part of #Shakuntalam was maintaining grace and posture while walking, talking, running... even crying! And grace is sooo not my thing. Had to take training sessions for it! Should have taken Sasha along... clearly so not her thing either! #LikeMotherLikeDaughter."
Based on Kalidasa's acclaimed Sanskrit play Abhijnana Shakuntalam, the film is written and directed by award-winning director Gunasekhar (Rudhramadevi) and produced by Neelima Guna and Dil Raju under the banner of Gunna Teamworks and Dil Raju Productions respectively. The film also features Dev Mohan as Dushyanta, the king of the Puru Dynasty.
'Shaakuntalam' revolves around the epic love story of Shakuntala and King Dushyant, portrayed by Yashoda star Samantha and Dev Mohan of Sufiyum Sujatayum fame, respectively. It will be out in Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada.
The film will hit the theatres on 17 February 2023.
Samantha has been keeping a low profile ever since she was diagnosed with an autoimmune condition called Myositis.
A few months ago, Samantha revealed that she is diagnosed with an autoimmune condition called 'Myositis'.
The 35-year-old diva broke the silence on her health update via her latest social media post. She took to her Instagram handle and shared a picture of herself, sitting on a couch with an IV drip connected to her wrist.
She captioned the picture, "Your response to the 'Yashodha' trailer was overwhelming. It is this love and connection that I share with all of you, that gives me the strength to deal with the seemingly unending challenges that life throws at me. A few months back I was diagnosed with an autoimmune condition called Myositis. I was hoping to share this after it had gone into remission. But it is taking a little longer than I hoped. I am slowly realising that we don't always need to put up a strong front."
The British Academy has revealed the results of the first round of voting across all 24 categories for the 2023 BAFTA Film Awards, and this initial longlist included SS Rajamouli's 2022 blockbuster 'RRR'.
The period action movie featuring Ram Charan and Jr NTR scored one nod for Film Not in the English Language category.
Following the longlist's announcement, the movie's official Twitter handle expressed gratitude by tweeting, "Very happy to share that RRR is in the LONGLIST of #BAFTA FILM AWARDS. Thank you everyone. #RRRMovie @BAFTA."
According to The Hollywood Reporter, an American entertainment news outlet, other
Hollywood star Tom Hanks chooses not to watch his hit movies.
While having doubts about his acting ability, the 66-year-old also has to wrestle with authenticity when looking back at his films.
"I wrestle with authenticity. I wrestle with the difference between lying for a living as an actor and lying to myself as a human being," Hanks said when speaking on 'The Great Creators with Guy Raz' podcast, reports aceshowbiz.com.
The two-time Oscar winner prefers not to watch his films again as it always leaves him with a sense of regret about his performance.
Hanks explained "(I see) the falsehood in them. I see the loss. I see that one time, 'Oh man, I missed that opportunity.'"
"And it's not because, at the moment, I chose not to - it's because, after it was done, I realised I didn't go far enough. I didn't go to the place that I could have gone."
"Then I asked myself, well, why? Was it
because I was satisfied with what I had? Was it because I wasn't up enough on the text? Was it because I didn't have enough of those ideas in my pocket? Or you know, was it because I was late that day and we had to rush the shot and instead of six passes, we only got two passes at it? That's where the self-doubt creeps in."
Hanks claimed that the 1994 film 'Forrest Gump', which landed him an Oscar for Best Actor - as one of the few movies where he gave his all.
The 'Cast Away' star recalled "We all sat together for weeks with (director Robert Zemeckis), and Bob was saying, 'Well, what do we make of that?'"
"We started at the beginning of the script and we all talked about everything. Even scenes we're not in, and what it meant to the text. That doesn't mean your own lines. You must know the text, because the text is the interpretation of the theme, and the theme is why you're all there in the first place."
films in the same category included 'All Quiet on the Western Front', 'Argentina, 1985', 'Bardo, False Chronicle of a Handful of Truths', 'Close', 'Corsage', 'Decision To Leave', 'EO', 'Holy Spider', and 'The Quiet Girl'.
Out of the lot, Netflix's anti-war epic 'All Quiet on the Western Front' emerged as an early frontrunner because along with Film Not in the English Language category it was also named in 15 categories, including best film and director.
Shaunak Sen's celebrated documentary 'All That Breathes' was also nominated.
However, Sanjay Leela Bhansali's period drama 'Gangubai Kathiawadi', starring Alia Bhatt in the titular role,
failed to make the cut.
This announcement, the result of the first round of voting which closed on 30 December, is only the third time BAFTA has published nominations longlists, a decision it made in 2020 as part of a major overhaul of its voting procedures aimed at addressing the lack of diversity at its film awards, reported The Hollywood Reporter.
The additional longlisting round -bringing the total rounds of voting to three -- was brought in among some 120 wide-ranging changes.
As per The Hollywood Reporter, the final list of nominations will be announced on 19 January 2023, with the ceremony due to take place on 19 February 2023.
Actor Priyanka Chopra was all jolly and giddy as she shared a fun banter with fellow actor Huma Qureshi.
The 'Quantico' star was spotted in a video posted to the Instagram stories of Huma, dressed in a black jacket along with denim jeans with a handbag.
"This is how @priyankachopra packs all of us off for the concert #convoy #2023," the 'Bell Bottom' actor captioned the video.
"We'll miss you," Huma was heard saying to Priyanka from behind the lens.
"I know. Look at my convoy," Priyanka replied with a giddy laugh as Huma panned the camera around to showcase the numerous black limousines standing in a line.
"Bye! Enjoy London," Huma replied before the video ended with Priyanka making a victory sign with her hands and smiling as she bade farewell.
In earlier Instagram stories, the 'Maharani' actor shared snippets from a concert of 'Jonas Brothers', including one where Priyanka's husband, singer Nick Jonas was performing.
"Jiju is a rockstar .. ufff @ nickjonas," she wrote with star emojis alongside the video.
Meanwhile, on the work front, Huma was last seen in the neo-noir comedy thriller film 'Monica, O My Darling' opposite Rajkummar Rao. Priyanka, on the other hand, will be seen in two important projects 'It's All Coming Back To Me', and the series 'Citadel'.
It's All Coming Back to Me will release in the US on February 10, 2023. The movie is based on the 2016 German film 'SMS fur Dich' by Karoline Herfurth, Deadline reported.
While 'Citadel' is a science fiction drama created by Russo brothers.
On the Bollywood front, Priyanka is expected to start shooting for Farhan Akhtar's directorial 'Jee Le Zaraa' in 2023. The film will also star Alia Bhatt and Katrina Kaif in lead roles. It is an all-female road trip story.
2022 was an unusual year for the Bollywood film industry, as it was recovering from the pandemic with boycotts trending and Pan Indian films ruling the roost. However, 2023 looks promising for the largest film industry in the world. Here’s taking a look at what’s in store for January.
Starring: Deepika Padukone, Shahrukh Khan, John Abraham
Director: Siddharth Anand. Pathaan
Release date: 25 January 2023
Platform: Theatres
Pathaan is perhaps the most anticipated film of 2023, as it marks Shahrukh Khan’s return to the big screen after a Zero in 2018. The first look of the movie garnered a lot of attention, clocking up millions of hits for the teaser and its songs.
attire in the first released song Besharm Rang, proved to be a heartthrob, as well as courting controversy. Irrespective the song crossed 42 million views in about 2 days.
Starring: Siddharth Malhotra and Rashmika
Mandanna Director: Shantanu Bagchi
Release date: 19 January
Platform: Netflix
The film is described as the untold story of India’s greatest covert operation, taking place before and during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. Set in the 1970s, an undercover Indian spy takes on a deadly mission to expose a covert nuclear weapons program in the heart of Pakistan.
Starring: Arjun Kapoor, Radhika Madan, Tabu, Konkana Sen Sharma, Naseeruddin Shah and Kumud Mishra
Director: Aasman Bhardwaj
Release Date: 13 January
Platform: Theatres
Kuttey is the directorial debut of renowned director Vishal Bhardwaj’s son, Aasman Bhardwaj. The black comedy thriller includes an ensemble cast and is a production of Vishal Bhardwaj Films, Luv Films, and T-Series Films. One rainy night in the outskirts of Mumbai, three stray gangs unknowingly cross paths on the hunt and it’s every man for himself.
Starring:
Director: Rajkumar Santoshi
Release Date: 26 January Platform: Theatres
Director:
Release
Based on the 2016 book Trial by Fire: The Tragic Tale of the Uphaar Fire Tragedy by Neelam and Shekhar Krishnamoorthy, this drama series outlines the story behind the Uphaar Cinema fire mishap that occurred on 13 June, 1997 in Delhi. It caused 59 deaths and over 100 injuries. Abhay and Rajshri Deshpande are seen as struggling parents fighting the worst war of any parent’s life - the fight for justice after their kids' death and compensation for the families who lost loved ones.
Even while it is difficult to argue on paper why Bollywood movies have failed, the hostility the industry has seen since the lockdown has left a mark. The boycott Bollywood movement have only fueled the already suffering industry efforts to find assistance.
As we enter a new year, we take a moment to reflect on the year that has just ended, 2022, and hope to learn from the failures and setbacks. We list some of the significant events that made headlines, occasions that altered the concept of Hindi film and shed some light on the failure of the business.
By UMA RAMASUBRAMANIANThe days when regional film was despised are long gone. PAN India films have gained popularity over the world as times have changed. To state the obvious Pan India films such as RRR, Pushpa, KGF 2, Kantara gave Bollywood a run for its money.
It all started with the release of Bahubali a few years ago, and since then, the desire to travel across borders and understand the pulse of the audience across states has been a new trend that barely a few have mastered. The failure of each Bollywood films is directly compared to the success of pan India film unfortunately there is no definite conclusion on to why Hindi cinema failed to mint money. As OTT options have honed the Hindi audience's taste buds, the classic super stars of Bollywood are no longer bankable.
Ranveer dared it all and posed naked for a magazine which eventually ran into controversy. Several FIRs were filed against the actor. An NGO official claimed that the actor's images had offended the modesty of women in general and harmed their feelings. The FIR said that despite India's "wonderful
culture," everyone's feelings had been harmed by these images.
BOYCOTT LAAL SINGH CHADDHA AND NOW BOYCOTT PATHAANThe boycott trend in Bollywood has been consistent since pandemic. While Aamir made an honest attempt to tell an incredible story and adaptation of Forest Gump his efforts went in vain. Nationwide ban was pushed as the actor was charged for insulting the Indian army and offending their feelings. The film eventually failed to make enough money to cover its costs.
Post Laal Singh now the next superstar Shah Rukh Khan is targeted for his film Pathaan. Since some individuals objected to Deepika's attire in the song, which included a saffron bikini, many have called for a boycott of the movie.
Sajid Khan, a sex offender, received criticism for joining Bigg Boss Season 16. While the #MeToo movement, gave strength to several victims the show
took a different tack. Sajid Khan is still a member of the performance despite several criticisms of his participation.
It has not been a great year for Jacqueline Fernandez as her name kept cropping up in a legal issue. The actress was accused in the INR200 crore money laundering case involving conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar. Fernandez who reportedly wanted to marry him received expensive gifts form the conman.
Since its release, the film has been a contentious topic, but near the end of 2022, a new controversy arose when Nadav Lapid, the head of the jury, addressed the audience during the IFFI closing ceremony and referred to the film as "propaganda, vulgar."
The film Brahmastra's teaser sparked controversy after a scene showed Ranbir Kapoor
in his shoes entering a place of worship. However, director Ayan Mukerji quickly clarified that Ranbir was entering a durga puja pandal.
Akshay Kumar who enjoys a huge fan base had to face back lash for advertising Vimal Pan masala. Soon after the repercussions
the actor choose to pull back from the deal.
KHAN Stardom comes with a cost, and in Salman Khan's case, that cost was death threats. After receiving a letter threatening his life, Salman sought a firearms license.
The article is incomplete unless we remember some of our favorite celebrities who have passed away leaving their fans in a state of shock. Celebrities including Lata Mangeshkar, K K, Bapi Lahiri, Raju Srivastava, Sidhu Moosewala, Pandit Birju Maharaj, Vikram Ghokale were some of the great personalities who lost their lives this year.
While the controversies are beyond control, we hope the box office surprises us in 2023 and hope the cash register keeps ringing.Akshay Kumar
By SAMUEL J. WHITE and PHILIPPE B. WILSON
Every day we are exposed to a wide array of potentially harmful microorganisms – such as colds, the flu and even COVID. But our immune system – a network of intricate pathways within our body – helps protect us against these microorganisms and other potential diseases. Essentially, it recognises foreign invaders, such as viruses and bacteria, and takes immediate action to defend us.
Humans have two types of immunity: innate and adaptive. Innate immunity is the body’s first-line of defence, primarily consisting of physical barriers (such as skin), and secretions – including mucus, stomach acid and enzymes in saliva and sweat which prevent microorganisms getting inside the body. It also consists of cells that attack all foreign invaders entering the body.
Adaptive immunity is a system that learns to recognise a pathogen. It’s regulated by cells and organs in our body such as the spleen, thymus, bone marrow and lymph nodes. When a foreign substance enters the body, these cells and organs create antibodies and multiply the immune cells specific to that harmful substance in order to attack and destroy it. They also remember the pathogen for future reference.
There are many things we can do to support our immune system and even improve its function. Simple changes to your diet and lifestyle can all play a big role in helping you avoid getting sick.
The nutrients we get from the foods in our diet play key roles in both building and maintaining our immune system.
Take for example the amino acid arginine. This is essential for generating nitric oxide within immune cells, which is an important defence molecule against organisms. Vitamin A and zinc are crucial in the rapid reproduction of immune cells. Vitamin C contributes to immune defence by supporting the cell functions of both immune systems. Similarly, vitamin E has been shown to enhance immune responses in animals and humans and to provide protection against several infectious diseases, such as flu, COVID and the common cold.
A varied diet including fruits and vegetables, wholegrains, nuts, seeds, dairy products, as well as fish, meat, or plant protein alternatives, will all contain these key nutrients which support our immune health.
The vast combination of microorganisms that live in our gut –known as our microbiome – also have significant effects on our health and wellbeing, despite their tiny size. In fact, the microbiome is often referred to as
the “second brain” due to the extensive relationship it has with the body’s organs and systems.
One particular role the microbes in our gut play is supporting immune function. They help to control inflammation, the process the immune system uses to protect us from harmful pathogens. Ensuring the microbiome is healthy can improve immune function.
There are many ways we can support our microbiome through the foods we eat. For example, research has shown a Mediterranean diet, which is rich in vitamins, minerals and dietary fibre, has an anti-inflammatory effect in the gut,
which can help boost the body’s immune function.
This effect may be explained by a strain of bacteria known as Faecalibacterium prausnitzii which is key to immune regulation. This bacteria tends to be low in the western diet but abundant in the Mediterranean diet. You should also avoid too many refined cereals, sugars and animal fats, which can all heighten inflammation in the body which weakens the immune response.
Probiotics (supplementary blends of live bacteria) may also have benefits. Research has even shown a
probiotic
have a large impact on the immune system. It isn’t just chronic stress that suppresses the immune system either – even brief periods of stress (such as an exam) can worsen immune function. Fortunately, mindfulness meditation (which can help manage stress) may be beneficial for the immune system –though it isn’t entirely clear yet why.
Your lifestyle can also have a big effect on immune function.
For example, smoking affects both innate and adaptive immunity, causing it to both overreact to pathogens and lower its immunity defences. Alcohol has also been shown to increase susceptibility to both bacterial and viral infections.
It does this by altering the way our immune system defends against infections. Even moderate drinkers may have lower immunity.
Sleep is also crucial for maintaining immune function. Studies show that frequent, poor sleep causes inflammation in the body. This may worsen immune response, increasing infection risk and worsening infections.
Adolescents who only get around six hours of sleep are also more likely to suffer from common illnesses, such as cold, flu and gastroenteritis.
Stress is another factor known to
Exercise has also been shown to affect immune function, with research showing moderate-intensity physical activity in particular (such as a brisk walk or ballroom dancing) can improve immune response. However, it’s important to strike the right balance as long, intense exercise without sufficient rest between workouts can actually worsen immune function and make you more likely to catch an infection. And according to some data, this decrease can happen after only 90 minutes of moderate- to high-intensity physical activity.
Of course, vaccination remains the best way to prevent infection from many common diseases, such as the flu. But a good diet and lifestyle – alongside other preventative measures, such as washing your hands or wearing a face mask – help support your immune system and the effectiveness of vaccines.
ThisarticleoriginallyappearedinTheConversationandwas contributedbySamuelJ.White
AseniorLecturerinGeneticImmunologyatNottingham TrentUniversityand
PhilippeB.WilsonProfessorofOneHealthatNottingham TrentUniversity
Thousands of Kirklees families could save over £1,000 on their annual energy bills if a Labour Party plan was implemented, it has been claimed.
As energy prices reach eyewatering highs the Warm Homes Plan would see 117,000 homes across the borough upgraded as part of Labour’s “national mission” to make every home in the country warm, wellinsulated, and cheaper to heat within a decade.
Nationally, this would see the upgrade of 19 million homes across the UK over the next ten years.
The party stated that if the Government had implemented the scheme when Labour originally called for it in September 2021, 2 million of the coldest homes could have been upgraded by this Winter.
Analysis from Labour reports that families would make a saving of up to £1,000 off their annual energy bill. A saving of over £2bn would be felt nationally in the first year of the scheme, with Kirklees contributing £117m to this figure.
These proposals come as part of Labour’s wider Green Prosperity Plan which would see the generation of one million jobs, bring down energy bills, raise living standards and tackle the climate crisis.
Paul Davies, Labour’s Parliamentary Candidate for Colne Valley constituency, said:
“Like every community in Britain, people in Colne Valley and across the Kirklees district are facing a cost of living crisis with rocketing energy bills. 12 years of failure by the Conservatives to insulate our homes is one of the reasons bills are so high- too many working people and pensioners live in draughty, cold homes with high heating costs.
“If the Conservatives were serious about cutting energy bills, they could start right now, by delivering the Warm Homes Plan that Labour has called for. A proper national mission would save 19 million families over £1,000 on their bills, as well as creating good construction jobs in our community.
“Labour will deliver the Warm Homes Plan we need, as part of our Green Prosperity Plan to make Britain a clean energy superpowerdelivering lower bills, jobs in the green industries of the future, tackling the climate crisis, and making Britain energy independent once and for all.”
However, at a recent meeting of Kirklees Council, the UK’s role
in tackling the climate crisis was disputed with some members of the opposition stating that on a global scale, Kirklees’ response to the climate crisis would be insignificant.
These comments came as Kirklees Council’s Climate Change Action Plan (CCAP) was formally unveiled
last month, with Kirklees said to be “ahead of the curve” in its approach. The plan presents 206 actions to be implemented across the district to address the climate emergency and make the borough net zero and climate ready by 2038.
However, this approach was condemned by some, with Cllr Michael Watson suggesting the council was “catastrophising” and could be suffering from “corporate herd psychosis.” He said that as only 1,499 people across the borough had engaged with the plan, there were “a lot of people in Kirklees who have no interest whatsoever in this.”
The Cllr went on to say that the council was devoting a great deal of resources to the cause in a time when they are struggling financially and explained that in the global landscape, Kirklees’ approach to the climate emergency would make “not one iota of difference.”
Despite the differing views across the council, the CCAP was granted approval. The next stage will see stakeholders consulted about the prioiritsation of actions within the plan.
By JOHN HAMMOND AND YIORGOS GADANAKIS
Shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine, the closely watched food price index of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reached its highest recorded level, stoking consumer prices across the world. In the UK, for example, the prices of many everyday items increased way ahead of inflation, with bread and eggs both up 18% in the year to December, and milk up 30%.
Such rises threatened food security, particularly in low and middle-income countries that rely heavily on Ukraine and Russia for grains and plant oils. That included many countries in Africa and Asia, which took 95% of Ukraine’s wheat exports in 2021 (roughly a tenth of the world supply).
This prompted much talk in the media about the potential for famine. Yet nearly a year after the invasion, the FAO food price index has returned to pre-invasion levels.
So why has pressure on prices reduced, and what are the prospects for the year ahead?
You can’t look at food in isolation from COVID. Many people in the energy and food industries were either too ill to work or prevented from doing so because of pandemic restrictions, which squeezed supplies. When the world opened up and demand began to rise, food and energy prices went up too.
This made people particularly vulnerable to events in Ukraine. Once the war began, food-price inflation peaked because the markets were uncertain about whether production and exports would be hit, and how global supply chains would adapt.
Ukraine’s grain exports resumed after a UN deal was brokered in July to create a humanitarian corridor through the Black Sea. It also helped that the wheat harvest was larger than expected, even if large areas around the front line remain unharvested. Much of Ukraine’s corn has not been harvested either, for the additional reason that the drying
process is energy intensive and farmers struggled to afford the raised prices. Overall, Ukraine’s grain exports were down in 2022 by about 30% year on year.
Russia is normally an even bigger exporter of wheat than Ukraine, supplying about 15% of world demand. It’s harder to see what has happened to these supplies because the Russians stopped providing data, but certainly Moscow’s policy of only dealing with “friendly” countries will have affected availability for many countries too.
Countries that rely heavily on Ukrainian/Russian grains have been forced to shop elsewhere. For example Yemen and Egypt have imported more grain from India and the EU, paying higher prices than usual.
Several additional pressures on farmers have further squeezed the global food supply. Fertiliser prices have rocketed in the past two years. Russia, an important global supplier, has been stockpiling for domestic use. Elsewhere, heightened energy prices have squeezed output. In the UK, the largest nitrogen-fertiliser facility suspended production during 2022.
Average fertiliser prices for UK farmers are now 18% higher than the winter before the Ukraine invasion, and 66% higher than two years ago.
Extreme weather in summer 2022 was another problem, including heatwaves and drought in northern Europe, America and China, flooding in Pakistan and drought in Argentina. Irrigation has become more difficult in areas that depend on it, while in Europe drought conditions have reduced the supply of crops for animal feed and harvest of grass for silage. Meat and vegetable prices have both gone up as a result.
According to the UN’s World Food Programme, the overall effect of inflation, war and extreme weather has been that many people around the world have had their access to food restricted. The number of people facing severe food insecurity is up 20% since the war began.
Wholesale gas and oil prices have at least declined from their 2022 highs, which will benefit the entire food supply chain. This is one reason why
inflation eased slightly in the autumn in many countries.
Oil and gas prices
This will have taken some of the heat out of the global food price index. Cereals, meats and particularly vegetable oil prices all fell towards
remains historically high.
For the year ahead, the area of crops planted in Ukraine is estimated to be 17% down on 2022. Farmers in other countries are planting more wheat and maize to compensate, though the overall supply will still be pressured by higher farming costs and potentially more extreme weather.
Fertiliser prices will probably stay high as supplies remain restricted. Farmers in wealthier countries may keep applying normal quantities to their crops, like on previous periods of raised prices. But in poorer countries they may cut back, threatening yields and quality and exposing smallholder communities to greater food insecurity.
In sum, many staples will likely remain in tight supply in 2023, meaning price pressures continue. Retailers will be forced to either absorb the costs or pass them on to consumers. Governments will have to consider how to both support struggling consumers but also farmers to maximise what they produce.
At the international level, there needs to be an urgent fertiliser supply agreement to minimise disruptions, prioritising access for vulnerable communities in developing countries. Longer term, farming needs to reduce its dependency on fertilisers by developing agricultural practices that optimise the cycling of nutrients.
the end of the year, though sugar and dairy prices went in the opposite direction. Overall food price inflation
This includes more efficient use of manures and extracting nutrients from sewage, and using more legume crops in rotations to take advantage of the fact that they enhance nutrients in the soil. There also needs to be more precision farming techniques to target resources within fields to where they will be used most efficiently.
These practices are well adopted in western countries, but other parts of the world lag behind – particularly developing countries. Fertilisers will always be part of the farming system, but we’ll make food production more sustainable if we can get these things right.
Malai is often referred to as a rich type of clotted cream originating from the Indian subcontinent and was particularly used in cooking to make curries more rich and creamy.
Malai is the perfect cooking ingredient and this Malai chicken curry from Supreme Ingredients vast recipe book, is just the perfect way to start the year. Give it a go
Heat a pot over low-medium heat. Add oil, onions, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves and black peppercorns, cook until onions have turned golden brown. Then add chicken, garlic and ginger paste, black pepper and green chillies, mix well and sear the chicken. Turn the heat down to low, cover and cook until chicken is fully cooked through. Uncover, turn the heat up to medium, add cumin powder, cook for 1 minute then pour in cream and water. Stir well and simmer for 20 minutes. Garnish with fried onions and chopped almonds.
Recipe in partnership with Supreme ingredients. For more recipes visit www.supreme-ingredients.com
They are the sons of English league football's first turbaned referee Jarnail Singh, who took charge of more than 150 EFL games between 2004 and 2010, but none in the Premier League.
Trailblazer Jarnail still remains active as a referee in both the Combined Counties League as well as at Khalsa Football Federation (KFF) tournaments.
"For the Sikh community and all South Asians who dream of a career in the game, seeing Bhupinder officiate in the Premier League is absolutely massive," he told Sky Sports News.
"As a father, you can imagine I am very proud to see Bhupinder in the Premier League. It's every father's dream to see their children
you can do with hard work, endeavour and passion for the game.
"His hunger for it has been phenomenal in the last few years and I hope both he and my eldest son Sunny can help encourage more South Asians to take up refereeing."
Speaking to Sky News, Sunny Singh said: “We want the sport to be more diverse and inclusive. So if we can be in the limelight a little bit, just to show people that anyone can do it and make it because we have. It s only a positive, but it does add a little bit of pressure I am the role model, because at the end of the day I will only see myself as a proper role model if I make it to the top of the game, where my dream is”
Bhups is a PE teacher and England's highest ranking assistant referee, while Sunny the older brother is a prison officer in Feltham he is the most senior South Asian referee in the country and the brothers want to reach the top flight of English football.
Jarnail, who has previously gained Premier League experience as a fourth official, was beaming with pride as he attended the match at St Mary's to watch his youngest son make history.
succeed, and do better than them, and achieve more - whether that is in terms of family life, education or sport.
"Hopefully, Bhupinder's achievement highlights what
Bhups said: “My next step is to be promoted to the Premier League and that is the ultimate dream at the end of the day. We got this far in 10 – 12 years, we have time on our hands now to make it to that next step. So for me it s being an a ssistant referee on the Premier League.”
The T10 sports Management has denied reports of any corrupt practices and said that the competition is under International Cricket Council (ICC) probe for illegal practices.
As per media reports on 7 January, the ICC's AntiCorruption Unit (ACU) has received several reports regarding corrupt practices in the recent edition of the Abu Dhabi T10 which took place from November 23 to December 4, 2021.
The T10 Sports Management in a statement denied the charges and said, "As a responsible event owner, we host the tournament at a high-quality international stadium. We attract some of the world's best players, while also developing local talent and employing international level ICC and ACC match officials and referees."
"We contract the ICC to manage and investigate any allegations of corruption, which then fall under their scope to manage. We have not been notified on any anti-corruption issues and will continue to take the lead of the ICC," the statement added. The 2022 season was the sixth edition of Abu Dhabi T10. The league saw participation from some of the best players around the globe. Shakib Al Hasan, Andre Russell, Moeen Ali, Dwayne Bravo, Kieron Pollard, Sikander Raza and Wanindu Hasaranga are some of the notable names.
Defending champions Deccan Gladiators once again stamped their authority in the Abu Dhabi T10 by recording an emphatic 37-run win over debutants New York Strikers in the final of the sixth edition of the Abu Dhabi T10 at the Abu Dhabi Zayed Cricket Stadium.
Another devastating knockout meant that Haque snatched the Cage Warriors Flyweight strap off
Creasey on Saturday 31 December 2022.
These two fighters faced off six
years ago, with Haque winning via unanimous decision on that occasion. However, that was a long time ago, and both men have matured as Mixed Martial Artists since then. As a result, many expected this fight to be different.
The opening stages suggested the same as well. Creasy had the better of the striking in the first two rounds and hurt Haque early with a good straight right.
‘Urai ' even dropped Haque in the third, although the man from South Shields claimed that ‘he slipped because of the matting in the cage after the fight.
Haque believes “that he should be in the UFC now” and that he is “the best Flyweight in Europe and has been for the last six years.” Last night he backed up that claim, and it would not be a surprise if Dana White came calling with a contract if Haque defends his title.
Saj had a magnificent year winning 4 titles defeating the Polish No1, French No1 and UK No1, Won and defended the Almighty Fighting Championship Title and now becoming the Cage Warriors World Champion. Surely UFC awaits him now
Dubai , January 7: A number of players in the UAE have had dreams of playing with the best cricketers in the world and the International League T20 will make all those dreams come true when the tournament will be played this January-February.
The inaugural edition will be hosted across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah with six teams battling for the trophy.
Opening batter Muhammad Waseem, who has scored 743 runs in 20 T20s, said he can't wait to play alongside Kieron Pollard in the MI Emirates camp.
"I am feeling very happy, and I feel lucky to be a part of such a big franchise. I will try my best to prove myself during the tournament. This is a huge moment for us which I can't put in words. I will try to play my best and showcase the talent that UAE has. I can't wait to meet Kieron Pollard and play alongside him. I played with him in Abu Dhabi T10 as well."
Asked about how he started cricket, the UAE player said, "I have been interested in cricket since my childhood days. I started playing the game seriously in 2014. I played for my school and then went on to play at the district
level, which is where my passion grew for the game."
Meanwhile, wicketkeeper-batter Vriitya Aravind, who has scored 536 runs and effected 12 catches and three stumpings in 25 T20s, said that he always wanted to play for the MI franchise, "It's an honour and a privilege to represent one of the most successful cricket franchises in the world. I saw Sachin Tendulkar play for MI (in the IPL) and I wanted to represent the franchise at some point in my life and therefore I feel lucky to get a chance to be a part of the MI Emirates at an early age. I am looking forward to playing with Nicholas Pooran since we have similar roles as a top-order batter and wicketkeeper. I think I will keep pestering him with questions."
Aravind also spoke about the moment which inspired him to be a cricketer, "I was born in India, and everyone wants to play cricket there. And I was in the country when India won the 2011 ICC Men's World Cup. That is my first memory of watching an entire World Cup and I also celebrated on the streets when India won it. I made up my mind on that day that I want to be a cricketer and play in the World Cup."
The MI Emirates will be in action when they take on Sharjah Warriors in their first match of the DP World ILT20 at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi on 14 January 2023, a release said.
Making its debut on 13 January (2023), the inaugural DP World ILT20 promises to be a high-octane competition with some of the greatest cricketing superstars on the planet set to make their way to the UAE to kick off the league. The league will be played in a 34-match format across the UAE's exemplary, world-class cricket facilities in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.
Franchise teams, comprising over 100 International and 24 UAE-based players, include Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (Knight Riders Group), Desert
Vipers (Lancer Capital), Dubai Capitals (GMR), Gulf Giants (Adani Sportsline), MI Emirates (Reliance Industries) and
Cricket fans across the world can catch the live telecast of this exciting cricket league on Zee's linear channels, digital platform, Zee5 as well as Zee Cinema, Zee Anmol Cinema, and Pictures, and Flix, Zee Zest, Zee
Bangla
DP World ILT20 news, updates and interactive chat can be found via www.ilt20.ae and @ILT20Official on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn, while tickets can be purchased by visiting https//tickets. ilt20.ae.
The Yorkshire County Cricket Club today announced that Lord Kamlesh Patel will step down as Chair at the Club's next Annual General Meeting.
Patel, who joined Yorkshire in November 2021, has overseen a significant period of change which culminated in international cricket returning to Headingley.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion have been at the heart of this change to ensure that Yorkshire Cricket is a Club for everyone. Key changes have included offering a safe space for whistleblowers to report discrimination, integrating goldstandard governance processes under the guidance of the Good Governance Institute and working to achieve accreditation with the National Centre for Diversity as read in a statement released by the Yorkshire Cricket Club.
Important steps have also been taken to ensure that matchdays at Headingley, Scarborough and York are more inclusive and offer a friendly atmosphere for all. Others
key changes to the matchday experience at Headingley have included the introduction of a texting service to report discriminatory behaviour confidentially, more familyfriendly alcohol-free areas and sensory rooms to offer a calmer space for those with sensory processing issues.
Removing cost barriers and creating opportunities to diversify Yorkshire's Pathway programme has already seen great success.
The boys Pathway programme has seen a nearly 40 per cent increase in attendees for regional observations and an increase of 60% of cricketers selected from a diverse background at County Age Group when compared with 2021. Girls County Age Group nominations have already increased by 60.7 per cent from 2021.
Kamlesh Patel, The Yorkshire County Cricket Club Chair said, "It has been an honour and a privilege to work for such a prestigious organisation. I have made the difficult decision to step aside at the next AGM and enable the Club to continue on
its important journey of change under a new Chair. I would like to thank those Members who have been hugely supportive of the changes that the Board have introduced at Headingley. I would also like to thank the staff and Board Members who have all worked tirelessly during what has been a transformational period in Yorkshire's history. There is still much for the Club to do, but I have the strongest faith that Yorkshire will be back at the pinnacle of English cricket for the long-term."
Stephen Vaughan, The Yorkshire County Cricket Club Chief Executive said, "Kamlesh should be extremely proud of what he has achieved at Headingley during his tenure as Chair. The structures that have been put in place are vital in ensuring that Yorkshire is a Club that people are proud to be associated with. Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity are at the heart of our Club and I am excited to work with the Board, executive team and new Chair to continue on this journey of meaningful change."