B4 Magazine Issue 11 by B4 Magazine

Magazine

ISSUE 11 SUMMER 2009

FINANCE

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RECRUITMENT

ADVICE •

www.b4-business.com

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P ROMOTION

CHARITY

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H E A LT H

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SPOTLIGHT •

MEET

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• IT

PROPERTY •

EN JOY

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NEWS H OT E L S

Allen Associates Kate Allen leads the way for recruitment in Oxfordshire

Barceló Oxford Hotel The fresh, new conference product from Barceló Oxford Hotel

Private Healthcare Consultant Surgeon Nick Maynard introduces B4 to the first class private healthcare team on our doorstep

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B4 FEATURE

news Oxford Innovation Oxford Innovation provides services to growing companies, and to government bodies that promote enterprise. The company operates 15 Innovation Centres that provide flexible office and laboratory space to over 400 technology, knowledge-based and creative companies.

We all know how tough it is for many businesses out there, but don’t give up – there is much to give us real heart for the challenge ahead, and plenty of help out there, as this issue of B4 will prove.

Oxford Innovation also manages three highly successful Investment Networks that link investors with entrepreneurs seeking funding from £20,000 to £2 million. During the last five years, the investment networks have helped over 90 companies raise £19.5m.

Dragons or Angels – who would you rather have on your side? With recruitment underway for the next series of Dragons Den, a different kind of investor is constantly on the lookout for a viable opportunity – the Business Angel. Typically a Business Angel is a successful entrepreneur seeking to reinvest their capital to boost the development of a start-up company. In addition, they often bring management or technical experience and contacts, as well as capital. One such Business Angel is Ken Pelton, who acts as part time Finance Director for Oxis Energy, following his investment in the company 5 years ago.

Ken Pelton has been an active member of the Oxford Investment Opportunity Network (OION) since 2003. “Angel investing is so rewarding because through an established network such as OION, not only do you have access to handpicked companies to suit your portfolio, but you also sometimes have the opportunity to play a role in the company. I invested in Oxis Energy because I liked the technology and the people. I am a hands on person, so find it stimulating and rewarding working alongside Gleb and the team."

Photography: www.studio-8.co.uk

Welcome

“Having access to Oxford Innovation’s Investment Networks through our office and lab space at Culham Innovation Centre has been vital to the growth of Oxis Energy to date. It’s great to know that we can call on such fundamental business services through Oxford Innovation, and the investment that we have received has significantly speeded up our development. Ken is proactively involved in the company and is devoting a lot of his time to Oxis Energy. We very much appreciate Ken’s support and dedication which is so important in the early stages of a company’s growth.”

Today Thames Valley….tomorrow the world!

Kate Allen of Allen Associates kicks off B4 with the lead article, and tells me how her business has evolved and is looking to develop.

Protecting against human error is aided by Sophos, a local software heavyweight, and Ardington Archives help protect our company records when they invite B4 to find out more about their document storage business. Safety in numbers is another way to protect ourselves, and David Beesley of B-Line is a great example as to how working together with other local businesses can prove invaluable.

FISCAL Technologies is based in the Crowthorne Enterprise Centre, which is one of 15 centres managed by Oxford Innovation. Crowthorne Enterprise Centre provides start-up companies with a professional environment to grow, along with a range of business support services likely to be needed during the first vital years of operation.

FISCAL Technologies Ltd is fast becoming one of the world’s leading experts in duplicate payment technology. It provides software solutions and applications to finance departments in medium to large organisations around the world to help reduce costs, detect fraud and optimise working capital. FISCAL Technologies was founded in 2002 and is run by husband and wife team David and Lesley Griffiths. They now have 14 people working for them around the

David Griffiths, FISCAL’s Managing Director says “We are very pleased with our profitable growth and are looking forward to another year of expansion. The Centre has helped with our growing pains by offering flexible accommodation and a first class frontline team.” Crowthorne Enterprise Centre is just one of eight centres managed by Oxford Innovation in the Thames Valley. These centres offer their clients access to one of the UK’s largest and most active business angel networks including the Thames Valley Investment Network (TVIN). Clients also benefit from access to a range of other support services that are vital to the success of many businesses.

To find out more about the range of services Oxford Innovation provides, call: 01235 838555. email: marketing@oxin.co.uk. web: www.oxin.co.uk.

www.b4-business.com

Contact details on page 100

B4 Lead 8

Allen Associates Kate Allen on the growth of Allen Associates and recruitment in Oxford

B4 News 6

42 The Guv’nor An interview with General Manager JeanPierre Morilleau

Enjoy B4 Issue 11. Richard Rosser Editor

“Fundamentally, I am totally self-taught. I have not been through the training. I only spent a couple of months with Franco, on and off. He sent me to Shaun Hill because he said I needed to know not just what his kitchen looked like but needed to know how other kitchens worked. And Shaun Hill was, like me, a one man show. He had his wife and one other waitress to help out. It was very interesting to see how Shaun juggled. He was fully booked for a month ahead so he knew exactly how he could run his business, and he did very well. He is now doing very well with The Walnut Tree, which is close to Abergavenny. “So that is what I did. I began looking for premises and this came up. I was living in Oxford at the time so my roots were in Oxford. This place was a grotty little café and I knew my thirty seats were not going to be enough. And that was a real problem

for the dynamics of the business I imagined. But we took it on and I am glad we did not do anything bigger at the time, because I would have lost it. I set up totally from scratch.” So what is the secret of your success, approaching your tenth anniversary? What are the ingredients that make The Rose a success? “Resilience! Absolutely. Words are very cheap. What counts is what’s on the plate and consistent quality. Also, it is extremely important that we have fun in what we do and that is something we try to maintain even in the most stressful situations. We change our menu, for lunch, at least twice a week, and that is fundamentally to keep us on our toes. If you do the same thing all the time, however good your consistency, you grow stale. You have to keep yourself fresh.” So what is a typical day for you? “I start at eight. It varies a little bit, but I normally work eleven to twelve hours a day. It is very physical but I do draw a great deal of enjoyment from it. You definitely need to have backbone and resilience.” Would you like to see another Rose in another part of town? “I would love to have more space, a bigger Rose. But I have never seen a place where you can replicate to a high standard. You always lose that quality. You lose the sense of identity. The moment it becomes corporate, you lose something. How can you put yourself into it?” So what are your long-term aspirations? “I would love to have a bigger Rose and I would love to have a place where I could do evenings. In this climate, I am sticking to what I am good at. Even in these times, I know I will be able to survive. But, crucially, I will never compromise on the quality of my produce.” Visit The Rose for breakfast, lunch or tea and see our review at www.inoxford.com in the café section of restaurants.

www.b4-business.com

52 Conference Centre Oxford Six page special on the team, with a spotlight on the in house team and the loyal band of sub-contractors 20 St Hugh's College Conferences In a beautiful North Oxford setting, B4 discover that there is more to this stunning college than just students

Local Business News

But don’t neglect yourself. In the first of a series of interviews with leading surgeons from Oxford Radcliffe Private Healthcare, consultant surgeon, Nick Maynard, lifts the lid on what can arguably be described as one of the country’s finest private healthcare teams, and I get totally ‘SPUN’ at leading local gym, Bourton Mill.

And, finally, we introduce you to the reason so many of you like B4, Blink Design, and the creative genius of Blink’s Creative Director, Keith Simpson and how his eye for design is helping other Oxfordshire businesses raise their profile.

“Before I embarked on this journey, I wrote to Franco Taruschio at The Walnut Tree in Wales, which he and his wife had run for about thirty five years. Then they sold it about eight years ago - it was recently part of a not so flattering documentary for Gordon Ramsey’s Kitchen Nightmares. It has since been taken over by Shaun Hill, a Michelin star chef. Franco also sent me to Shaun in Ludlow to see how his kitchen worked. I asked Franco if he would take me on as an unpaid intern, quite an “ask” at fifty four, to see whether I could stand on my feet for sixteen hours and handle the pace of a kitchen. You need to know that you have the stamina.

The business has doubled its turnover in the last year and is expanding overseas, with a small office just outside Washington DC to help focus on US prospects and has already secured 15 new customers. It is also investing in the development of new products and online managed services to help support companies of all sizes to help reduce financial processing costs and improve payment processes.

B4 Spotlight

Local law firms Darbys and Withy King help us to cope with redundancies, crime and insolvency, and we extend a warm welcome to a number of new B4 ‘first-timers’ in Shaw Gibbs, Reggie Heyworth of Cotswold Wildlife Park, Tony Stratton (Chairman of Oxford Inspires), Stefan Wynne-Jones (Chairman of Oxford’s Association of Guest Houses and Hotels), The Oxfordshire Golf Club and Patrick Flynn of Magnolia Park Golf and Country Club.

You don’t let him in the kitchen then? “Well, he has moved away from the kitchen! He was quite capable when I met him, but he has now proved himself very capable at enjoying my food!

In the past 6 months, with the help of Crowthorne Enterprise Centre, FISCAL Technologies has grown significantly, and as a result has been able to increase the size of their office size quickly and cost-effectively.

Robin Swailes of North Oxford Property Services gives us the benefit of his investment advice with a focus on gold, and Jean-Pierre Morilleau of Oxford Castle tells all about the new market at the Castle.

We also focus on conferences, with a look at Barceló Oxford’s new conference product, conferencing at St Hugh’s College, and an in-depth look at Conference Centre Oxford and the winning team behind the new venue, with a great focus on the sub-contractors.

“I have been doing this for ten years now. I am Swedish born, but of Danish parentage. I am a qualified architect from Denmark and worked as an architect, but food has always been my passion, even though I hate the word! Words are so cheap but food is my life. I was born in Gothenburg and lived in Copenhagen. I came to England in 1989 withmy husband, Holger. We had been together for many years before we came to England after meeting in Copenhagen. Holger is a chemical engineer by profession.”

country and over 75 customers in the UK and US – including Virgin, Rentokil, Norfolkline, Leapfrog, Next and 25 public sector authorities.

Helping us to protect our businesses are leading business coach Paul Avins, and Tony Haines of local accountants, Wenn Townsend. They are also generously offering B4 readers a complimentary copy of their respective new publications.

A BLOOMING ROSE

Gleb Ivanov, Managing Director of Oxis Energy says

24 Thinking And The Box The expansion of one man’s vision for the perfect company

62 It Never Grows Old Owner Reggie Heyworth talks to B4 about the steady evolution of this family favourite 76 From Woburn To Magnolia Patrick Flynn tells B4 why he made the move 48 Inspired Thinking Chairman Tony Stratton gives B4 an insight into the reasons behind and expansion of Oxfordshire’s leading cultural organisation

B4 Accountancy 87 Inca Local accountancy firm with the focus on due care and attention 27 Tax Matters Focus on tax matters in administration and liquidation 28 Lasting The Distance Partner Tony Haines imparts some wise words to help companies adapt to the difficult economic environment

B4 Charity

B4 Enjoy 72 Science Oxford B4 finds out more about Science Oxford’s plans for present and future 92 Spun A bird’s eye view of this great health club, bang smack in the centre of Oxford 90 The House A stylish new Cocktail Bar in the centre of Oxford

B4 Feature 67 Thin Icing We will always have something to celebrate, so bring out the cake! 84 Facechart How this innovative product is solving problems for business 58 Lacy’s Fashioning Success Mother and daughter partnership on how Lacy’s is re-fashioning itself 83 Quality Controlled Oxford’s Association of Guest Houses and Hotels Chairman talks to B4 75 The New Bodleian B4’s Sarah Wiseman interviews The Bodleian’s Roddy Bedford 39 A Blooming Rose B4 meeting the charming and industrious Marianne Bruel, owner and engine of The Rose

71 Charitable Funds News

B4 Finance

B4 Conference

19 Beating The Recession In 2009 Local business coach Paul Avins plots your strategy for success

12 Barceló Fresh, Original & Loud! General Manager Cormac O’Hara on exciting developments for Barceló’s conference centre

40 Investment Options Robin Swailes of North Oxford Property Services suggests why gold may be good

B4 LEAD

ALLEN ASSOCIATES

In a tough economy, recruitment and marketing are often first on the cost-cutting list, with more companies contracting rather than expanding. B4’s Richard Rosser meets Kate Allen of leading Oxford recruitment agency, Allen Associates, who explains how, after ten years in business, the landscape is changing, and how Oxfordshire is weathering the financial storm.

Established in 1998 by Kate and Rob Allen, Allen Associates always had one key target – to create a company with the highest professional standards. Having achieved this, their success has been built on an increasingly glowing reputation and first class service in the delivery of recruitment solutions, particularly in the human resources, PA, administration, marketing and finance sectors. By providing prospective employers with high quality candidates who fulfill their requirements and ensuring jobseekers receive carefully selected, interesting job proposals, Allen Associates’ rapid business growth has developed through careful planning and recommendation, delivering what is required.

Photography: www.studio-8.co.uk

And behind every placement they make, there are ten core business principles making up The Model of Excellence – see inset table. It is this considered approach which has kept Allen Associates at the forefront of the recruitment industry in Oxford. Richard Rosser met with Kate Allen at Allen Associates’ Oxford Business Park Headquarters, and quickly discovered the secret of her success – an unprecedented passion for her business, a focus on delivering for her clients and an infectious work ethic which has helped Kate to establish a loyal team built in the same unique mould.

As you approach your tenth anniversary in business, how has the company evolved? Having left university not really knowing what I wanted to do, I fell into recruitment in London and had seven successful years working in City and West End recruitment. Then Rob and I met, got married and decided to start a family. While the kids were younger we lived in a variety of different places, including Barbados, and I spent time studying for my CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development) qualification. When the kids were old enough, it was very important for me to get back to work and we decided to set up on our own. My family background is very entrepreneurial, so it is a natural consequence that I would always want to have my own business. It was always part of the plan that Rob and I would run our own business and it made obvious sense that it should be in recruitment. Back then, there wasn’t the focus on quality that there is now. Our industry body was gradually realising that it had to push to raise standards. Our industry generally had a poor reputation and I wanted to do what I could to dispel the myth. So we set out to establish a business that had a vision for being a quality company that would actually deliver on its promises. We also wanted to be different by being successful simply through word of mouth and referrals. In fact, in the first year, we got so much business specifically from start up companies that we didn’t have to do any new

B4 Health

business development at all. Our business then came through existing customers, referrals and recommendations. But now we are looking to step up a level and business development, especially in this climate, is going to be a crucial part of our strategy moving forward.

Having established the business, from an outsider’s point of view, you seem to have carved a niche for yourself and have set yourself a league apart from many recruitment businesses in the area.

I know we are seen as being different because we are independent. We are not bound to certain practices if something doesn’t make sense, we change course. We can be flexible. We have very robust processes that have really stood the test of time. We also have a massive Oxfordshire focus, so we know the industries here, we know what the people are like, and we understand the way things work. Our deep knowledge of the area means we can advise more specifically, so there is just that extra bit of value added which sets us apart from the rest. We have got specialist divisions, we have staff that stay with us, who are well trained, and we have got continuity of leadership, which I think is vitally important.

We have a really fantastic, loyal and very dedicated client and candidate base. Wherever they can, they will use us over and above other organisations and often on a sole agency basis, because they know they will have a reliable, quality service. They will deal with a high calibre of personnel – our staff are resourceful and focused on satisfying our clients’ needs. They are not commission driven and they do not cold call, and as a result, we have this wonderful track record. Somebody once said to us that we were like ‘the Marks and Spencer’s of the recruitment world, and we loved that. Our team is first class and 100% dedicated.

www.b4-business.com

We also deal with temps and contractors. In this particular market the Temps division is very appealing because it can give businesses the flexibility if they feel that they do not want to invest in a permanent member of staff. Also, we currently have a lot of contract roles.

At all times, Allen Associates’ staff will: 1. Work to the principles of best practice. 2. Work with integrity, honesty, openness, loyalty and fairness. 3. Keep the customer’s best interests in mind at all times. 4. Resolve any conflict in a fair and open way. 5. Put principles before profit. 6. Use professional judgement and keep confidentiality at all times. 7. Work quickly, without compromising quality, keeping the customer informed all the way. 8. Welcome advice and learn from any mistakes. 9. Understand the needs of clients and candidates. 10. Act with dignity at all times and expect the same in return.

Oh, absolutely. They are being much more selective about the key skills and criteria they are looking for. Whereas before, when the market was buoyant, when there were fewer candidates and more jobs, they had to be flexible and look at transferable skills. Now they are being very specific with the candidates and they can usually get what they want. So if they want

We deal with marketing vacancies from entry level, through to graduate marketing assistants and right up to marketing directors. We will deal with both the agency and client side. Our HR division is similar; entry level, human resources professionals who are just

Absolutely. We have been IIP (Investors in People) accredited now for eight years. We are really

somebody who is graduate calibre with specific experience with online marketing and they speak French and German, they will probably be able to get that person now. The candidates are obviously being very flexible about what they look at and that has had

In a downturn, are employers in a position of strength being able to be more selective in appointing new employees?

What areas of recruitment do you specialise in? So the team has completely bought into your philosophy and this has enabled you to build a strong platform?

about to embark on their CIPD qualification, right up to HR directors and business partners. On the PA side, the area of business which was our foundation, we have placed PA’s for many leading business people. We placed PA’s for both Raymond Blanc and the Head of Blackwell Publishing. We place administrators who are re-entering their career, who may have just completed a secretarial course somewhere or just left school with a business qualification, right up to very senior people working in high powered executive roles. We do have a fledgling finance division as well, which we are in the process of formally launching.

MODEL OF EXCELLENCE

www.b4-business.com

B4 ACCOUNTANCY

46 Private Healthcare John Radcliffe consultant surgeon, Nick Maynard, talks to B4 about Private Healthcare’s excellent team

BARCELÓ FRESH, ORIGINAL & LOUD! In Issue 9 of B4, we introduced The Oxford Hotel’s General Manager, Cormac O’Hara, to B4 readers. As part of the Barceló Group of hotels, Cormac introduces B4 readers to Barceló’s exciting new conference product, Meet Barceló, and not only explains the thinking behind this innovative new conference service, but some novel ideas.

B4 CONFERENCE look at the hotel, it is a very tangible product, but

small details, that we really understand our guests’

amongst the best

available, anywhere. The website

service is intangible. So if they choose to hold their

requirements and we make sure that we deliver. So

is fully interactive and, hopefully, in the very near fu-

event here, we will ultimately be judged on service,

many ingredients make for a successful event and this

ture, will have live online booking.”

and if we fail to deliver, we have to give refunds. We

is especially true for the training business we host. A lot

therefore make sure we do what we do well.”

of our business is training-based, and the trainer on the day is in the chair, they are controlling what

delegates remember, as Cormac identifies. “If you

And the list of promises goes on: if queries aren’t

happens and when. It is therefore of paramount

have, for example, a training event for perhaps twenty

responded to within two hours, you get refunds; if you

importance that their requirements are actioned. We

people, they get their own meeting training package

And Barceló have also considered the add-ons

have queries on your bill and you don’t receive a

ask in advance what they want to do, when they want

which comes with lots of brightly coloured stress balls.

response within a certain time-frame, you get refunds;

to do it, what kind of food they want and when, or if

This is based on research that if you give someone the

if the AV equipment doesn’t work on the day or there

there are any other specific needs. The event booker

freedom to fiddle with something, it will keep the right

are problems, you get refunds.

is key, but they will only re-book with us if the trainer

hand side of the brain active, because it is the left hand

is happy and has had a good experience.

side that does the learning. We also give fun, amusing and colourful sweets. Most rooms have mints or

Promises aside, Cormac and Barceló not only want to make sure that the day goes without any technical

“We have had some events where one of the key

sweets in, but our research shows that colour is a very

hitches, but that the actual experience is memorable,

elements in the timetable is the social event on the

important factor when it comes to brain stimulation.

31 Private Healthcare News

B4 Hotels 98 Ambassadors Bloomsbury Alison and Simon Ryde review this excellent 4* hotel 96 Hartwell House B4 brave the snow to enjoy the delights of this beautiful stately home 78 Traditional Luxury An interview with General Manager Michael Grange

B4 IT & Comms

“Barceló launched ‘Meet Barceló’ at Confex in

help us tailor our product even more specifically to

February, which includes new packages for

their needs – they have proved to be an invaluable

conferences, a brand new website, new logo, new

pool of information and research.

everything! Barceló operate, like a lot of organisations, within a framework of values, such

LASTING THE DISTANCE

and that customers come back.

experience.

So we have the colourful jars of sweets in the morning when everyone needs to be stimulated, and,

“Food is a hugely important aspect of any event. Many

key to a successful event in instances like this, we felt

in the afternoon, when everyone notoriously switches

events aren’t particularly stimulating, that’s not a

that a pre event meal didn’t encourage mixing and so

off, we switch to chocolate, when delegates need that

the Meeting and Events department that day so they

secret, and your coffee breaks and your meals are the

moved the opening night event to the bar, presenting

sugar rush!

can help instantly. So, rather than having to break away

things that you are going to look forward to and

a more relaxed and informal environment in which

from your meeting to try and find somebody to give

remember. A lot of our customer feedback focuses on

people could socialise and get to know each other – this has proved to be a massive hit with clients.”

have a set of ‘Promises’ built around Barceló’s

So now, when you exit a Barceló event, our event staff

you a new flipchart, you can just discreetly press a

the breaks and the meals. And it is therefore crucial

values, and with every promise there comes a

are clearly identifiable against other hotel staff by their

button and, within a few minutes, someone will be in

that we get this spot on. All of our menus have been

free dry cleaning, gifts when they arrive, fresh fruit and chocolate in their room, wine and a departure bag.

new uniform designed with orange ties or scarfs and

your room. That is what people need. You don’t have

re-written and re-devised. It goes back to our research

There are very few companies re-launching anything

They get given the smelly fruity pens in the meeting

orange and white name badges – it’s our ‘yellow

to break the flow or create a scene.

about what people really want. Sandwiches are actually

in this climate, but Barceló are listening to their

room, which again research shows stimulates creative

quite important to people, but they should be

customers and aiming not just to meet their

learning and thought.

A maxim favoured by the Spanish, according to

simple distinction highlights Meetings and Events staff

“We also have a promise that any enquiry you have

incorporated in a choice. Choice is very important. It is

expectations, but to deliver a consistent product in

Cormac, is ‘put your money where your mouth is’, and

against the predominant blue tones which run through

upon arrival should be attended to by a professional

about discussing in advance who the delegates will be

twenty one hotels. That’s quite a tall order at the best

Barceló have used this to the full in their marketing,

the rest of Barceló’s branding and clothing.”

“We leave no stone unturned. In our support box we

events team member. That is not necessarily ground

and what will work best for them. Often, for example,

of times, but it is a challenge that The Oxford Hotel,

even carry triple A batteries and there is unlimited tea

breaking, but if your room is not set up at least thirty

a conference with majority male delegates may need

along with the other twenty Barceló hotels, are rising

and coffee as part of all packages.”

to.

this isn’t just a throwaway marketing line intended to

Cormac also identifies another pet hate of Meetings

minutes prior to the contracted arrival time, then you

to be catered for differently than a majority female

attract business, that would be costly and foolish

and Events customers is the trouble taken to get

will not pay for the room hire. This promise is intended

conference or a more mature group and a group of

without and research, but don’t worry, Barceló have

attention during a meeting. The orange clothing

to ensure that your events contact has prepared

teenage trainees - as the organiser’s views on food

After careful consideration and listening to their “I think under Barceló there has been a re-birthing of

customers, Barceló have devised a product which not

identification is all very well in between sessions, but

everything to your satisfaction, in advance of the event,

choices, healthy options and lighter items will be vital

these twenty one hotels. We didn’t have a Meetings

only caters for you and your delegates’ every need, but

what about during an event? “Meetings and Events

so that all loose ends are tied up to enable the client

to judging what meals should be offered.”

and Events package as such, but now we have a

makes sure that even the most mundane of events

“Barceló is a huge meetings and events brand, with

clients offen need very speedy support as they are

to concentrate on what they do best.

Meetings and Events website, www.meetbarcelo.co.uk,

are a hit.

hundreds of meeting rooms in the UK hosting

often interrupting a tight schedule. If they cannot find

And Barceló have identified that meeting the needs of

which is separate to the main hotel website and shows

done their homework, as Cormac explains.

hundreds of thousands of delegates every year. So we

a solution to their problems, practically instantly, then

“All of these promises give the customer the

the person actually running the event is integral to its

that not only do we offer a service, but that it is a

have a great pool of experienced customers who can

this can have a very negative impact on overall event

confidence that we can deliver. They can come and

success. “We need to show that we understand the

Meetings and Events product which is to be ranked

www.b4-business.com

‘Pass the sweet-jar.’

www.b4-business.com

12 36 Questioning Redundancy Withy King’s team of experts on options when it comes to the question of redundancy 51 Outplacement Withy King’s Richard White explains how companies can help redundant staff

35 Oxford Innovations News 23 OTCN News

61 Nominet News

B4 Marketing

B4 Support

B4 Legal

64 Blink Design, Print And Marketing From the creators of B4, Blink show how you can give your business a facelift

95 Business Link News

45 Sophos: Information Protection Local software heavyweight helps businesses prepare for the inevitable – human error

“We continue our focus on the trainers by giving them

guarantee, and, put simply, if we don’t fulfill these guarantees, our customers get their money back.”

and that is exactly what they are prepared to do. But

first night, even before the actual training or conference has started. Where the social interaction is

“All meeting rooms also have an immediate call system which triggers a pager for whoever is running

are generally in uniform, the same uniform, with nothing to distinguish hotel staff from conference staff.

carnation under the clock at Waterloo’ if you like! This

Drawing on the experience of professional advisers in a downturn is crucial and there are few better placed accountancy firms locally than Wenn Townsend who have a wealth of experience to share with their clients. Katie Avis-Riordan spoke with Partner Tony Haines to gain some valuable insights into handling the problems that most businesses are now facing. www.b4-business.com

“One ‘issue’ our clients had was that staff in a hotel

as teamwork and enthusiasm, which stem from the values inherent in the Barceló family. We now

16 Crime: Bad For Your Health B4 talk to Darbys’ crack Crime team and uncover a new service to help companies prepare for the unforeseen

B4 Working Together

68 A Passion For Recovery Howard Roberts wears his heart on his sleeve

88 Give And, Maybe, Take Dave Beesley talks to B4 about why he likes to connect Oxfordshire businesses

B4 Property 32 East Point Joint Venture On the outskirts of the ring road lies a well known development with a fresh injection of life 15 VSL News

VSL come out to play The Oxfordshire Playing Fields Association (OPFA) is an independent, registered charity, promoting good quality neighbourhood play and recreation opportunities throughout the county. Katie Avis-Riordan met with OPFA’s Community Development Officer, Roger Davis, to find out how local Commercial Property Company, VSL, have worked with OPFA to bring the children of Islip an incredible new playground facility. Roger played a huge part in assisting Islip Parish Council, and local Parish Councilor and VSL Partner, Richard Venables, explains how this partnership came to be, “We had a Festival here in Islip in 2005, the Millennium of the birth of Edward the Confessor, born in Islip in 1005. And with the money we raised from the Festival, approximately £3,000, we decided to re-invest in the village. The key part of the Festival was the

construction of a huge Viking long ship which was ‘cremated’ in a spectacular ceremony, along with Viking re-enactors to give the whole event a real period feel. It was therefore natural to have the Viking Ship as the centerpiece to the new playground, to remind ourselves of the Festival, which will live long in the memory of the village, and that legacy can live on through the playground. “Cherwell District Council put me in touch with Roger, who in turn put me in touch with The Trust for Oxfordshire’s Environment. Through a combination of all of these parties, and the Parish Council, we managed to raise £70,000. However, the contractor Roger put us in contact with managed to actually save us money as the scheme ended up costing just £55,000. We now have a fantastic facility, and that’s all thanks to OPFA and Roger for holding our hands through the whole process.”

Ignis Asset Management Cotswolds based CSM Ltd are appointed to manage sponsorship of Middlesex County Cricket Club at Lord’s by Ignis Asset Management CSM Ltd were recently appointed by Ignis to activate their three year sponsorship of Middlesex. CSM Ltd provides Ignis with sponsorship account management services, including contract negotiation, rights activation, evaluation, hospitality and event management. CSM Ltd was established in October 2008 by a team with deep experience in rights and event management to provide sponsorship, hospitality and event management services to a range of clients, particularly in the financial services sector. Charlie Allen, director, CSM Ltd, says: “The fact that Ignis has appointed us to manage their sponsorship of Middlesex CCC is a ringing endorsement of our credentials. Our approach is straightforward: to build effective relationships with both sponsor and rights holder so that the partnership can thrive and add significant value to the bottom line.” www.csmltd.org

ROBIN: Oxfordshire businesses get set for strategic CSR Oxfordshire has a new network to help businesses and charities work together. ROBIN (Responsible Oxfordshire Business Involvement Network) is run by the Oxfordshire Council for Voluntary Action, with law firm Morgan Cole as founder member and the High Sheriff backing the initiative. Speaking at the launch on 24 March, Gayle Curry from Morgan Cole said: “ROBIN will help companies identify practical, effective ways to support charities which – crucially – help the business too.” ROBIN’s aim is to make Corporate Social Responsibility easier. The website will be a hub of information and a useful starting point. Networking meetings will bring people together to discuss new – and more strategic – ideas for business and voluntary sectors working together. www.ocva.org.uk/csr

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B4 News “A Business Boldly Investing In Its Future, When Times Are Hard” At a time when the news is full of redundancies, downsizing and the credit crunch, it is refreshing to hear of a business that is investing and seeking to move forward. GWP Group is confidently growing its presence in the packaging market, and building on an already strong reputation for providing exceptional service, by introducing a major change to its Brand Strategy. The bold new approach includes new livery on lorries, changing signs on buildings and a brand new large–scale website. All the company stationery and communications have also been changed to reflect the new branding. This is not a superficial change of logos, it permeates right through the operations of the whole group and its marketing activities. GWP Group Chairman, David Pedley states, “This is a major step forward for our business. We are stronger as a total group rather than operating with three separate businesses and we have made the investment in our marketing to reflect our commitment to our clients. Our manufacturing side is first class and we needed to make sure that our image was equally modern and dynamic.” www.gwp.co.uk

New Team Member We have been pleased to have Katie Avis-Riordan on our editorial team for Issue 11. Katie grew up in Plymouth, and then moved to Oxford in 2005. She graduated from Oxford Brookes University with a BA Honours degree in English and will continue her studies by completing an MA in English at King’s College London. Katie said of her experience with B4, “My experience at B4 has been really helpful and interesting as I am thinking about pursuing a career in publishing or journalism. Although I have been spending many hours listening to tapes and transcribing interviews,

meeting new people and gaining invaluable interview experience has been crucial to my development. This has given me a great insight into what it is like to run a magazine, and it is fascinating to see the amount of work that goes in to publishing a title like B4. I think it’s brilliant that the editorial team, mainly consisting of Richard and I plus our brilliant designer, Keith Simpson, can put together a magazine of B4’s quality.” As editor, I would personally like to thank Katie for her hard work and speedy response times. I hope the experience will help her in the future.

Egrove Park whiteboards and flipcharts. Wi-Fi is freely available throughout the building. Main meeting rooms are air-conditioned and all rooms have plenty of natural daylight. Attractions offered by Egrove Park include its peaceful green surroundings and its cuisine. Excellent food and drink are essential to the success of any event. Cold buffets as well as hot dishes are available and the chefs are happy to provide alternative menus for guests who have special dietary preferences. Dinner is a set three course meal served with wine. Private dining is available and on warm summer evenings barbecues can be arranged on the patio or lawns.

Egrove Park is Saïd Business School’s purpose-built executive education centre situated in 37 acres of wooded parkland. Located just off Oxford’s southern bypass, only two miles from Oxford city centre, it is easily accessible by road and rail and has ample free parking. Egrove Park offers a wide range of meeting rooms, from the Clifford Barclay Lecture Theatre seating 112, to syndicate rooms suitable for break-out sessions. Meeting rooms are equipped with an LCD projector, laptop, DVD player, screen,

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Egrove Park has 63 comfortable en-suite bedrooms. All rooms are equipped with a telephone, networked internet access, television and other essentials to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Guests may use the fully-equipped gym, squash courts, sauna, all-weather tennis court, croquet lawn or snooker room. For further information please contact the Conference Office on 01865 422757, email: conference.egrove@sbs.ox.ac.uk or visit: www.sbs.oxford.edu/conferencing.

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didn’t have to do any new business development at all. Our business then came through existing customers, referrals and recommendations. But now we are looking to step up a level and business development, especially in this climate, is going to be a crucial part of our strategy moving forward. Having established the business, from an outsider’s point of view, you seem to have carved a niche for yourself and have set yourself a league apart from many recruitment businesses in the area. We have a really fantastic, loyal and very dedicated client and candidate base. Wherever they can, they will use us over and above other organisations and often on a sole agency basis, because they know they will have a reliable, quality service. They will deal with a high calibre of personnel – our staff are resourceful and focused on satisfying our clients’ needs. They are not commission driven and they do not cold call, and as a result, we have this wonderful track record. Somebody once said to us that we were like ‘the Marks and Spencer’s of the recruitment world, and we loved that. Our team is first class and 100% dedicated. So the team has completely bought into your philosophy and this has enabled you to build a strong platform? Absolutely. We have been IIP (Investors in People) accredited now for eight years. We are really

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B4 LEAD

ALLEN ASSOCIATES In a tough economy, recruitment and marketing are often first on the cost-cutting list, with more companies contracting rather than expanding. B4’s Richard Rosser meets Kate Allen of leading Oxford recruitment agency, Allen Associates, who explains how, after ten years in business, the landscape is changing, and how Oxfordshire is weathering the financial storm.

committed members of The Recruitment and Employment Confederation. We have got a seven figure turnover and a strong balance sheet even in these difficult times, so we are very proud of what we have achieved. The hard work is paying off! If you had to name your key strengths, what are they? I know we are seen as being different because we are independent. We are not bound to certain practices if something doesn’t make sense, we change course. We can be flexible. We have very robust processes that have really stood the test of time. We also have a massive Oxfordshire focus, so we know the industries here, we know what the people are like, and we understand the way things work. Our deep knowledge of the area means we can advise more specifically, so there is just that extra bit of value added which sets us apart from the rest. We have got specialist divisions, we have staff that stay with us, who are well trained, and we have got continuity of leadership, which I think is vitally important. What areas of recruitment do you specialise in? We deal with marketing vacancies from entry level, through to graduate marketing assistants and right up to marketing directors. We will deal with both the agency and client side. Our HR division is similar; entry level, human resources professionals who are just

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In a downturn, are employers in a position of strength being able to be more selective in appointing new employees? Oh, absolutely. They are being much more selective about the key skills and criteria they are looking for. Whereas before, when the market was buoyant, when there were fewer candidates and more jobs, they had to be flexible and look at transferable skills. Now they are being very specific with the candidates and they can usually get what they want. So if they want

MODEL OF EXCELLENCE

a slightly deflationary impact on salaries. They are being much more flexible about location and salaries, particularly the ones that have been made redundant. We are seeing more people that have been made redundant, typically in areas like property, retail, some in the travel industry and financial services, but the other sectors seem to be weathering it.

really revealing and very heartening is that our clients are paying on time, and they seem to know the importance of maintaining good relations. One of the things that I was very interested to highlight was how the Oxfordshire economy is unique. I want to promote how we can all work together to buy into Oxfordshire, to look after each other and keep the economy going wherever possible.

Do you think some businesses are using the recession as an excuse to shed staff?

This year, to celebrate our ten years, we are sponsoring the Oxford Mail OX5 run on behalf of the Oxford Children’s Hospital campaign. We wanted to sponsor it this year to show our gratitude to our clients and candidates, and to our local community. Our focus is only Oxfordshire so we wanted to support the local area and put a lot of effort into it, the same kind of effort that we put into driving our business forward, networking, making people aware of us and championing quality. Our aim is to get one thousand people running. We have agreed to sponsor one pound for the first thousand people that register for the run and we are promoting it heavily through our candidates, clients and through PR. We are also sponsoring The Oxford Mail Team Trophy and what we really want to do is to get businesses to enter teams - it is all about getting Oxfordshire on its feet, working together, demonstrating great team spirit. It is important that we are all pulling together to put the troubles behind us so that we can do something good for the local community. I think we will have a huge amount of interest.

No. In fact, I have not heard of one incident where somebody is using the current climate to trim employee numbers. I think a lot of progressive employers in Oxfordshire that we are dealing with actually really know how important it is to retain the knowledge within their business. We would urge them, wherever possible, to hold onto their talent because the market will turn, and when it does, they have to be ready for it. In fact, we have been keeping a really close check on what the trade press is doing for the recruitment sector and they have told us in numerous reports and publications that the recruitment industry, generally speaking, will feel the effects of the upturn very quickly indeed. Once everybody starts to feel confident again, we expect to notice the change quickly as businesses look to recruit more staff. Technology seems to be holding up well and we have got a lot of vacancies in publishing companies. Some of the creative industries, interestingly, are doing quite well, so we have got several marketing and events agencies that are still getting a lot of business and are recruiting at a middle and senior level. The Oxford University spin off companies are recruiting and, of course, we have got the Oxford colleges which are always looking for staff. This combination of factors all points to Oxford fairing quite well in the future. I have said countless times over the past three years that Oxford is recession proof, and now this theory is going to be tested, isn’t it? We are going to be tested, but, to be honest, I think that many good companies out there will do very well out of it. I really do think that the companies committed to quality, their people and training, and that have managed their money properly, will do well out of this. It will be a tough ride, but they will stand out. I think you are right. People that have kept their house in order, paid attention to looking after customers, as they need their loyalty now more than ever, are going to be better placed than others to survive it. A lot of businesses have to be a lot more accountable now don’t they? Yes they do. We have always had a cautious and conservative approach and that has really served us well. We are now a business that is ten years old and in excellent financial shape. We have retained our staff over the years and we have excellent, long-standing relationships with clients and candidates. We have also kept a really close eye on the money. What I have noticed, which has been

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The event will take place on Sunday 19th April and you can download an entry form at www.allen-associates.co.uk And how about your plans for the future? How do you see the business growing? In spite of what is going on out there in the market place, we still think we are really well placed to achieve our aim - to continue to be the first choice provider for quality recruitment in Oxfordshire. Now that we have got our infrastructure and team in place, and we know the market, we feel there is still so much more in Oxfordshire that we can be doing. At the end of the day, it is about finding great jobs for great candidates. We have not ruled out the possibility of developing other specialist divisions. For example, it would make obvious sense to look at areas such as publishing and biotechnology. Do you see yourself ever breaking out of Oxford and setting up in a new territory? We have not ruled that out at all. In fact, our business model is really strong, and I think that we could develop it in other areas. But not at present. We cannot afford to take our eye off the ball, and must continue to develop and, more importantly, to deliver.

SOME S AT I S F I E D CUSTOMERS “In the main, Fugro GEOS rarely use agencies to assist in recruitment, preferring wherever possible to use local or specialist media (for our scientific recruitment). Following a poor response to our advert for a UK HR Co-ordinator, we came to Allen Associates on the recommendation of our sister company, Fugro GeoConsulting Ltd. “All of the staff that we dealt with at Allen Associates were very professional. What we found particularly useful was the way you provided CV's with a summary of your impression of the candidates. The fact that you had met or talked with all of the candidates in advance was a very good way of enhancing our confidence in your service. So often Agencies will forward CV's in quantity without regard to quality. This is clearly not your business plan and, therefore, produced a very much reduced labour-intensive process for us. “Our overall impression of Allen Associates is extremely favourable and clearly a cut-above most Agencies in terms of professionalism and commitment to your customer. We would not hesitate to use you again should the need arise, and also to recommend you to our various sister companies. “In summary, your logo, "Recruiting Excellence" is, in my experience, a true reflection of the service you provided. Many thanks to you and all your staff.” Tracey Lyons – Fugro GEOS Ltd, Wallingford, Oxfordshire “I just wanted to drop you a quick line to provide some (very positive) feedback on my experience with Allen Associates. Both yourself and in particular Katy Miles were really so helpful to me in my job search. “Katy's proactive approach ensured that the positions she recommended me for fitted with my interests and experience. She was extremely receptive to listening to my thoughts about my situation, career goals and how particular positions did or did not fit with that. I felt at all times that she had my interests at heart and was acting in my best interests, as well as the employers’. “Allen Associates were approachable, interested, engaged and active in assisting me with my job search. “Although the ultimate position I obtained was through direct application, I do owe a lot to Allen Associates for imbuing me with the confidence to apply for a variety of positions that ultimately enabled me to continue my career progression.” Jennie Courtney - Headington, Oxford

Contact details on page 102

“Barceló launched ‘Meet Barceló’ at Confex in

help us tailor our product even more specifically to

February, which includes new packages for

their needs – they have proved to be an invaluable

conferences, a brand new website, new logo, new

pool of information and research.

everything! Barceló operate, like a lot of

experience. “All meeting rooms also have an immediate call system which triggers a pager for whoever is running

organisations, within a framework of values, such

“One ‘issue’ our clients had was that staff in a hotel

the Meeting and Events department that day so they

as teamwork and enthusiasm, which stem from

are generally in uniform, the same uniform, with

can help instantly. So, rather than having to break away

the values inherent in the Barceló family. We now

nothing to distinguish hotel staff from conference staff.

from your meeting to try and find somebody to give

have a set of ‘Promises’ built around Barceló’s

So now, when you exit a Barceló event, our events

you a new flipchart, you can just discreetly press a

values, and with every promise there comes a

team are clearly identifiable against other hotel staff by

button and, within a few minutes, someone will be in

guarantee, and, put simply, if we don’t fulfill these

their new uniform designed with orange ties or scarfs

your room. That is what people need. You don’t have

guarantees, our customers get their money back.”

and orange and white name badges – it’s our ‘yellow

to break the flow or create a scene.

carnation under the clock at Waterloo’ if you like! This A maxim favoured by the Spanish, according to

simple distinction highlights Meetings and Events staff

“We also have a promise that any enquiry you have

Cormac, is ‘put your money where your mouth is’, and

against the predominant blue tones which run through

upon arrival should be attended to by a professional

Barceló have used this to the full in their marketing,

the rest of Barceló’s branding and clothing.”

events team member. That is not necessarily ground breaking, but if your room is not set up at least thirty

and that is exactly what they are prepared to do. But this isn’t just a throwaway marketing line intended to

Cormac also identifies another pet hate of Meetings

minutes prior to the contracted arrival time, then you

attract business, that would be costly and foolish

and Events customers is the trouble taken to get

will not pay for the room hire. This promise is intended

without and research, but don’t worry, Barceló have

attention during a meeting. The orange clothing

to ensure that your events contact has prepared

done their homework, as Cormac explains.

identification is all very well in between sessions, but

everything to your satisfaction, in advance of the event,

what about during an event? “Meetings and Events

so that all loose ends are tied up to enable the client

“Barceló is a huge meetings and events brand, with

clients offen need very speedy support as they are

to concentrate on what they do best.

hundreds of meeting rooms in the UK hosting

often interrupting a tight schedule. If they cannot find

hundreds of thousands of delegates every year. So we

a solution to their problems, practically instantly, then

“All of these promises give the customer the

have a great pool of experienced customers who can

this can have a very negative impact on overall event

confidence that we can deliver. They can come and

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B4 CONFERENCE look at the hotel, it is a very tangible product, but

small details, that we really understand our guests’

amongst the best

service is intangible. So if they choose to hold their

requirements and we make sure that we deliver. So

is fully interactive and, hopefully, in the very near fu-

available, anywhere. The website

event here, we will ultimately be judged on service,

many ingredients make for a successful event and this

ture, will have live online booking.”

and if we fail to deliver, we have to give refunds. We

is especially true for the training business we host. A lot

therefore make sure we do what we do well.”

of our business is training-based, and the trainer on

And Barceló have also considered the add-ons

the day is in the chair, they are controlling what

delegates remember, as Cormac identifies. “If you

And the list of promises goes on: if queries aren’t

happens and when. It is therefore of paramount

have, for example, a training event for perhaps twenty

responded to within two hours, you get refunds; if you

importance that their requirements are actioned. We

people, they get their own meeting training package

have queries on your bill and you don’t receive a

ask in advance what they want to do, when they want

which comes with lots of brightly coloured stress balls.

response within a certain time-frame, you get refunds;

to do it, what kind of food they want and when, or if

This is based on research that if you give someone the

if the AV equipment doesn’t work on the day or there

there are any other specific needs. The event booker

freedom to fiddle with something, it will keep the right

are problems, you get refunds.

is key, but they will only re-book with us if the trainer

hand side of the brain active, because it is the left hand

is happy and has had a good experience.

side that does the learning. We also give fun, amusing and colourful sweets. Most rooms have mints or

Promises aside, Cormac and Barceló not only want to make sure that the day goes without any technical

“We have had some events where one of the key

sweets in, but our research shows that colour is a very

hitches, but that the actual experience is memorable,

elements in the timetable is the social event on the

important factor when it comes to brain stimulation.

and that customers come back.

first night, even before the actual training or

So we have the colourful jars of sweets in the

conference has started. Where the social interaction is

morning when everyone needs to be stimulated, and,

“Food is a hugely important aspect of any event. Many

key to a successful event in instances like this, we felt

in the afternoon, when everyone notoriously switches

events aren’t particularly stimulating, that’s not a

that a pre event meal didn’t encourage mixing and so

off, we switch to chocolate, when delegates need that

secret, and your coffee breaks and your meals are the

moved the opening night event to the bar, presenting

sugar rush!

things that you are going to look forward to and

a more relaxed and informal environment in which

remember. A lot of our customer feedback focuses on

people could socialise and get to know each other –

“We continue our focus on the trainers by giving them

the breaks and the meals. And it is therefore crucial

this has proved to be a massive hit with clients.”

free dry cleaning, gifts when they arrive, fresh fruit and chocolate in their room, wine and a departure bag.

that we get this spot on. All of our menus have been re-written and re-devised. It goes back to our research

There are very few companies re-launching anything

They get given the smelly fruity pens in the meeting

about what people really want. Sandwiches are actually

in this climate, but Barceló are listening to their

room, which again research shows stimulates creative

quite important to people, but they should be

customers and aiming not just to meet their

learning and thought.

incorporated in a choice. Choice is very important. It is

expectations, but to deliver a consistent product in

about discussing in advance who the delegates will be

twenty one hotels. That’s quite a tall order at the best

“We leave no stone unturned. In our support box we

and what will work best for them. Often, for example,

of times, but it is a challenge that The Oxford Hotel,

even carry triple A batteries and there is unlimited tea

a conference with majority male delegates may need

along with the other twenty Barceló hotels, are rising

and coffee as part of all packages.”

to be catered for differently than a majority female

to. After careful consideration and listening to their

conference or a more mature group and a group of teenage trainees - as the organiser’s views on food

“I think under Barceló there has been a re-birthing of

customers, Barceló have devised a product which not

choices, healthy options and lighter items will be vital

these twenty one hotels. We didn’t have a Meetings

only caters for you and your delegates’ every need, but

to judging what meals should be offered.”

and Events package as such, but now we have a

makes sure that even the most mundane of events

Meetings and Events website, www.meetbarcelo.co.uk,

are a hit.

And Barceló have identified that meeting the needs of

which is separate to the main hotel website and shows

the person actually running the event is integral to its

that not only do we offer a service, but that it is a

success. “We need to show that we understand the

Meetings and Events product which is to be ranked

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‘Pass the sweet-jar.’

Contact details on page 102

TORUS Abingdon Business Park TO LET 3,400 Sq ft â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 43,500 Sq ft Newly refurbished headquarters office building with energy efficient features.

KING CHARLES HOUSE Oxford TO LET 4,499 sq ft High quality air conditioned part ground floor office suite

THE GRANNARY Jericho Farm, Nr Cassington TO LET 1,542 sq ft High quality barn conversion office Close to A34, A40 and Oxford

UNITS 12/20 AVENUE ONE Station Lane, Witney TO LET Range of industrial units from 5,355 sq ft Newly refurbished light industrial and warehouse units

unrivaled local and regional expertise Richard Venables Tom Barton

rvenables@vslandp.com tbarton@vslandp.com

news Great Opportunity to Grab a Deal Whilst caution remains the buzz word for most commercial occupiers there are some very attractive rental and freehold deals available as landlords and developers feel the pinch. With no more development on the horizon and no real sign of significant Receivership properties flooding the market opportunities are limited. Supply is still plentiful but occupiers soon find that when they restrict their search criteria

opportunities become more limited. The rates relief package announced by the Chancellor at the beginning of April might appear an April’s Fool as rates payers can only apply for this reduction from August onwards but it is at last some help for occupiers who were facing a near 5% uplift in rates.

Deals, Deals and more Deals….. Despite the economic gloom here are a flavour of some of the deals VSL have completed in the first quarter of 2009 proving there is still life in the market….

Park 34, Didcot – 11,700 sq ft warehouse let to Matthew Clark.

Great Clarendon Street, Oxford – 2,800 sq ft office building let to Hoare Lea.

Eagle House, Walton Well Lane, Oxford – 21,000 sq ft let to University of Oxford.

Napier Court, Abingdon Science Park - 2,000 sq ft office let to Against Breast Cancer.

Talisman Business Centre, Bicester – 14,970 sq ft offices let to MEM Finance.

6 & 10 Langdale Court, Witney -2,000 sq ft let to Bronsens Accountants

Frieze Farm, Yarnton – 1,900 sq ft let to Griff Comm.

Kirtlington Business Centre, Kirtlington – 800 sq ft let to Oxfordshire PCT

Kidlington Centre – 800 sq ft offices let to Mencap

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Contact details on page 102

CRIME: BAD FOR YOUR HEALTH Recent cases of Corporate Manslaughter have hit the headlines – ranging from horrific industrial injuries to train crashes. We have all heard that such cases may have collapsed when they came to court. Maybe we all thought such cases were the reserve of the larger businesses? The Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act has introduced a new offence. Companies can now be prosecuted more easily where there has been a gross failing throughout the organisation in the management of health and safety which has resulted in fatal consequences. Richard Rosser meets Jim Astle and Michael Geeson to find out just how Darbys’ leading Corporate Defence Team is helping businesses in the region to avoid such charges altogether, or, defending them when things do go wrong… “What we do covers a broad range of criminal offences that companies or their staff might get involved in”, explains Michael Geeson. “In theory that could be anything from a spot of petty theft to corporate manslaughter, and the latter has really caught the public’s attention. Other agencies are very active though so we are involved in protecting companies where they are investigated for breaches of the environmental regulations, the trading standards regulations, or other parts of the health and safety legislation.

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“Prior to the latest Corporate Manslaughter Act, it was almost impossible to achieve the conviction of a company in a Corporate Manslaughter case. It was one individual who shouldered the blame whilst the corporate entity, to all intents and purposes, got away with murder. Now the law allows the prosecution to pursue the company itself if the investigators find that their poor working practices and the way that they carry out their day-to-day management has led to someone’s death.

“This makes the prosecutor’s job much easier. The difficulty under the old law was that the prosecution had to identify the precise ‘controlling mind’ in the company. Companies therefore found it relatively easy, or prosecutors found it difficult, to pin an offence upon the company itself. They had to prove that somebody in control of the company was responsible for somebody much lower down in the chain. That was difficult. So what tended to happen was the company was charged with lesser offences. If there was a fatality, for example, it was much more likely that the person much lower down the corporate chain would be prosecuted individually and would bear the individual responsibility rather than the managing director or the company itself. “The new Act relates liability to the way in which the activities of the company as a whole are managed and organised. An easy example is where a lorry driver is allowed persistently to exceed his statutory limit of driving hours. Not only has there been a breach of regulations, but he would be seen as having been allowed by the

B4 LEGAL company to be consistently in a condition that makes him dangerous. It is much easier to attack the company itself now.” Darbys are therefore well equipped to help companies prepare themselves to withstand any potential claims under the new Act if the worst case scenario were to occur, as Jim Astle continues: “Companies have got to make sure they have proper, safe working systems and that they carry out the appropriate risk assessments when they need to and that they really run their businesses professionally. The management needs to make sure that when something has to happen, it does happen. So for most of our clients and for most people out there, there is nothing to fear if they are running their businesses properly. However, we are very well placed, with many years of experience, to help companies get their houses in order regarding Health and Safety and to look after them if things go wrong. “Many companies do employ health and safety consultants specifically for their own industry. From time to time we are asked to advise companies on their work practices and risk assessments, but now we are making this service or consultancy more openly available to help clients prepare themselves and minimize any risks. Most people go to lawyers when things have gone wrong, but, rather like a tax accountant preferring to plan for tax rather than untangle it after the event, we would rather help to structure a business before a fatality occurs. “There is a lot we can contribute to our corporate clients. A lot of information is in the public domain but not well communicated, but that is never a

defence for companies. They should adhere to all relevant Health and Safety requirements. It is their duty to find out what is required of them, and we can help to determine what is and what is not relevant. “The authorities cannot prosecute everyone for every offence, no matter how major or minor, but what they will do is make an example of companies to help get their message across. They will prosecute and bad publicity can put the best companies out of business and that is a real call to action. With fines of up to £20,000, it is better to shape up rather than to slip-up. “If people see the problem early and come to us early, then we are more likely to be able to help them. And they shouldn’t also assume that because something is not corporate manslaughter and doesn’t involve a death or other dramatic consequences, that it is not serious. Do not underestimate; seek advice straight away and do it early rather than late. Do not think your case is insignificant.“ Jim and his team have the capacity to react instantly, which can be crucial, as Jim concludes, “I think clients expect legal advice to be competent and correct, and I think they are entitled to expect that whatever firm they go to. What they value most of all is getting that instantly. We are ready and available, twenty four seven. This service is available to all companies who join our revolutionary legal support scheme for businesses, BLUE – frankly a company without someone to call at, for example, 3 a.m., is not best prepared for the knock at the door that might come.”

MARTIN BOURNE Martin graduated in economics at The City University in 1987 before completing the Law Society’s Common Professional Examination and Law Society Finals in 1991. He became a Partner in 2000 and now heads the Criminal Law Team. He specialises solely in criminal law attending Oxford Magistrates Court and other Courts in and beyond the County everyday. He undertakes a wide range of criminal cases, usually in the role of defence advocate but often as well as prosecutor representing the DTI and other Government Agencies.

JIM ASTLE Jim studied at the University of Rennes in Brittany before graduating in Politics, Philosophy and Economics at New College Oxford. He completed his training in the office of the Solicitor to Cheshire County Council, qualifying in 1977. Having worked in the office of the Solicitor to Leicester County Council and as prosecuting lawyer in the Thames Valley Police Prosecuting Solicitor’s Department, Jim joined Darbys in 1980, becoming a Partner in 1982. Jim's criminal practice includes dealing with substantial cases of murder and fraud. He acts for individuals and companies in connection with breaches of environmental law, health and safety law, trading standards law and other regulatory offences. He also specialises in all aspects of planning law and regularly acts for individuals and companies in connection with licences to supply alcohol and carry out other licensable activity. He sits as a Deputy District Judge in the Magistrates' Courts and as a Deputy to the Traffic Commissioner, the regulator for the road haulage and public service vehicle industries.

MICHAEL GEESON In 1993 Michael joined Darbys to specialise in crime, becoming a partner in 1998. Together with other experienced colleagues, he defends commercial clients in a whole range of prosecutions including health and safety, environmental protections, food safety and fraud. He also regularly defends high quality and high profile criminal cases including murder and serious fraud cases. He prosecutes regularly for local authorities in regulatory matters.

GRAHAM BENNETT Graham has many years experience of the full range of criminal cases, after having led a specialist Criminal Law Team in Nottingham. He joined Darbys in 1995 and in recent years he has concentrated on his Crown Court advocacy. He is currently engaged as advocate in a major conspiracy trial scheduled to last several months. He sits as a Deputy District Judge (Magistrates' Courts).

Contact details on page 102

B4 FINANCE

BEATING THE RECESSION IN 2009 As business owners, the one thing we can rely on is that change is the only constant in our business, and right now we are living through a period of tremendous change and tremendous opportunity. Many of the warning signs of this recession were visible for those in touch with their markets. I’ll agree, nobody knew about the toxic debt heading our way from the US which was the tipping point, but somehow, many people, including Governments, had bought into the myth that things could keep going up and up forever. Well, welcome to a lesson in economics and the laws of nature 101 – night follows day, day follows night, winter follows summer etc…. you ignore this at your peril. When anything swings too much one way, a correction is inevitable, whether we like it or not. Today, many businesses, creditors and employees are paying a very high price for their owners’ excesses, lack of judgment and lack of planning or saving. If we own a business, we should expect the best but also plan and prepare for the worst………just in case. This is OUR responsibility and we are the only ones who can fix things now, nobody else is going to do it for us. Many clients I coach are thriving in this climate because if you put money aside in the good times and you’re cash positive, there are more opportunities than you can handle and less competition than ever before because over 280 businesses are going bust per week! Here are just a few of my favourite strategies you could use right now to boost your sales and profits: Marketing: Advertise, Advertise, & Advertise! During the last recession, McDonald's almost tripled their advertising campaign at a time when their competitors, namely Burger King, were cutting back. So even though this may seem counter-intuitive, a recession

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may be the time to increase your marketing. Test and Measure everything you do. If it doesn’t cover its costs, kill it! This is no time for ego in marketing, we want to focus on activity that generates a response. Go back to all your past customers and prospects and communicate with them more often – monthly specials or newsletters are a must and WILL generate business. Look for new markets you could move into as the profit opportunities are always moving. Survey your customers and see what other benefits you could be providing so you will be ready when the ‘green shoots’ start showing. Sales: Conversion rate is everything in this climate – upgrade your sales skills, read more books, listen to more CD’s, go on courses etc Put an incentive in place for your team to keep them focused on hitting your sales budgets but make sure your are focused on Margin not just turnover! Get closer to your biggest customers – your business will follow the 80/20 rule with 80% of your business coming from 20% of your clients. Lose one of these and it will have a big impact, so invest more time in these relationships and look for ways to add more value to these customers. Finance: Review your breakeven every 30 days for the next 12 months. Cut out everything that, if you were really honest, you don’t need any more. Yes some luxuries may have to go – tough! Cash is EVERYTHING right now so focus on your credit control systems. Introduce a Finance Friday into the business and get tight control of this. No more ‘Mr Nice

Guy’ if people won’t pay on time - get tough, it’s amazing what a good solicitor’s letter will generate in cash flow. Consider buying capital equipment from the receiver when your competitors go bust – harsh but very worthwhile if you were planning to invest in capital equipment anyway. One of my clients saved £300k doing this recently. Turn dead stock or unused equipment back into cash – If you don’t use it or need it, SELL IT - even if you have to use EBay! Team: Good people are more available and cheaper to hire than ever before, recruitment agencies are cutting their fees to win business so it can be a great time to hire. You have a justifiable reason to part company with underperforming members of your team. Now this is a big one and can add £,000’s in profits, plus those left will double their productivity. Hold more team meetings and involve everybody in brainstorming, to come up with ideas to cut costs or increase sales. This team spirit is very potent and can deliver unexpected results. People are often asking me where the best place to invest right now is. A business, Bank, The Stock market, and my response is the same – Invest in YOUR Knowledge and skills. The more you Learn the more your Earn and in a changing world, one thing we must do as business owners is grow our knowledge and skill level, that way we can thrive while our competition just manages to survive. Free Book Offer – Just 37 available (RRP £10) – Call 01869 278900 NOW to claim your copy of Paul’s new book – Recession SOS or email: SOSBook@paul-avins.com

Contact details on page 102

B4 CONFERENCE As the St Hugh’s Conference Brochure boasts, ‘Set

Oxford. Maplethorpe Hall, a vast, open, modern space,

schools, which it has been hosting for over twenty five

within fourteen acres of quiet, leafy North Oxford,

can accommodate up to two hundred and twenty

years. However, with the increasing need to develop

St Hugh’s has earned a reputation for professional

delegates, whilst the Maplethorpe Seminar Room can

new revenue streams, the college adopted a policy of

delivery of conferences and events.’ And it is this

seat up to sixty. The venue can also accommodate up

securing more corporate business, and has worked on

setting, combined with first class facilities which

to ninety six delegates in en-suite rooms above the

the development of impressive facilities. And it is

provide any conference with the perfect location,

hall, all with views over the gardens. If you are looking

important to stress that a significant amount of the

as Sarah explains, “For any conference organiser

for a self-contained unit, set amidst dreamy grounds,

facilities are available all year round.

looking to find a location, certain boxes have to be

this is perfect.

ticked, and we feel that our conference facilities are

And so the combination of location and facilities is

second to none in the city. Where we go beyond

Maplethorpe

largest

crucial, but so too, emphasises Sarah, is service, “A lot

this, is in terms of our location. It really has proved

conference space on site, however, St Hugh’s also

of our customers return because our service is first

to be our ‘Ace in the pack’ and attracted a huge

offers smaller spaces for meetings and gatherings. The

class. We learn what our customers are looking for,

amount of repeat business.

impressive Mordan Hall Suite, located on the first floor

specific customers that is, not just in general terms,

of the main building, was originally the college library.

and we can therefore cater for their every need. And

“In terms of what we can offer prospective clients, our

It has recently been refurbished to an exceptional

this includes listening and acting on suggestions for

meeting rooms are available all year round and can be

standard, complete with the latest technological

improvement. Yes we have the traditional setting which

tailored to the specific requirements of the event or

equipment, accommodating up to one hundred and

our customers obviously regard as an excellent selling

conference in question.” And as we approached the

thirty four delegates, with four additional seminar

point, however, we have taken on board the need to

impressive Maplethorpe Building in the grounds of St

rooms capable of holding up to twenty eight people

move with the times and have ensured we have Wi-Fi

Hugh’s, it was clear for all to see that a significant

each.

and interactive whiteboards, and will shortly be

Hall

undoubtedly

the

launching our video conferencing service. We always

investment has been committed to allow St Hugh’s to compete at the higher end of the conference scale in

Until five years ago, St Hugh’s specialised in summer

try to work with clients to create their perfect

ST HUGH’S COLLEGE

CONFERENCES Just off the Woodstock Road lies St Hugh’s College, one of Oxford University’s largest colleges. Founded in 1886, not unlike any other Oxford college, St Hugh’s is steeped in history. But, as Richard Rosser discovered when he met Bursar, Mary Kerr and Conference Operations Manager, Sarah Cooper, the college is fashioning itself into a Conference Venue to rival the very best in the City.

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conference, and that means listening and discovering

already booked up for the next 3 years!”

how we can improve what we offer.”

pressing need to secure alternative revenue streams. “People assume that you can run a college on

Leading the team which is held in such high regard by

academic income alone, but you just can’t. This is a

Tad Zurlinden of the Association of Relocation

customers such as Tad and Olive, listening and

real business. Conferences actually make a significant

Professionals

one

learning with the rest of them, is Bursar, Mary Kerr, who

contribution to our income. And although we still have

satisfied customer, “By the end of our 2008

has been driving the new facilities for the past five

a lot of academic conferences, Sarah is working on

Conference held at St Hugh's College, we had already

years having left her post in the city. Mary explains that

building more commercial business. In order to meet

decided to return in 2009. The support and

the skill set required by Bursars today is a world apart

our targets, we need to continue improvement in all

professionalism of the staff at the College ensured that

from that historically expected and accepted, “The

areas, including infrastructure and catering. Nick

our function went off without a hitch and we look

conference business was operating at a different level

French, our Catering Services Manager, joined us three

forward to this year. I have worked with venues

when I joined. It was clear that to develop as a

years ago with experience from the Canadian High

throughout the UK and Europe and St Hugh's College

conference venue, significant investment was needed

Commission and he is a perfect example of how we

is by far the most reliable venue of all.”

- we realised that we needed to up our game if we

have looked at each area of what we provide to see

wanted more commercial business. We are very lucky

the improvements we can make.

(www.arp-relocation.com)

Olive Goddard, Centre and Editorial Manager at The

with the grounds - it is a landscape to die for in the

Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine enthused, “We

summer and means that parking can be offered by

“It is my job as Bursar to develop operations - I am as

have used St. Hugh's College for many years for both

pre-arrangement. But we needed both to improve the

much an operations director as I am a Bursar. And to

small and large events. The staff at St. Hugh's are

facilities and to move towards whiteboard technology,

meet the rising expectations of the college, we have

incredibly accommodating and, whilst meeting the

projection facilities and also to look at how we could

to have the best management team in place,

needs of large events, always manage to deliver the

improve on the already excellent service in the college.

combined with first class service and exceptional

personal touch, which makes differences to both

facilities. I am proud to say we have delivered on all

organisers and participants. We would have no

Mary reveals that only a third of the college’s income

hesitation in recommending St. Hugh's, in fact we have

comes from grants and fees, so there is always a

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three.”

Contact details on page 102

Do your business systems leave you in the dark? Let us guide you in the right direction At Sci-Net we understand that it’s not enough to just provide you with a piece of software from a box. We know that to make your business run smoothly, we need to review how your business currently operates, then look at how we can improve it using technology. By doing this we can really improve the efficiency and profitability of your business, as we have with so many others. We also know that for some companies it is hard to know where to start. Whether you are starting afresh or looking to replace existing software that isn’t living up to your expectations, we can guide you through the entire process. We will work with you to decide which software will be most appropriate for your business, then design, develop, tailor and maintain it, enabling you to manage information and streamline your organisations services. We specialise in implementing and supporting Accounting, Finance and Enterprise Business systems. As partners for leading providers, such as Sage and Microsoft Dynamics NAV, we can provide you with the perfect solution for your business.

Phone us on 01869 349949 now to receive specialist advice and a demonstration of the best solutions for your business. • ERP systems

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news Real help for business A free Health Check for your business, extra time to pay your tax, national insurance or VAT bills, real help with finance and training - just some of the support measures available to help businesses through these challenging times. The package also includes help with loan finance, guides on issues like managing cash flow, alternatives to redundancy, and complying with employment law. There’s support for exporters (see www.uktradeinvest.gov.uk), advice on reducing waste and saving energy, plus workshops on key subjects. The Oxfordshire Town Chambers Network (www.otcn.co.uk) is working with the local Business Link to raise awareness of what’s available. Business Link Partnership Manager, Philip Wootton, says: “There’s a strong and growing portfolio of support available and we’re very pleased to be working with OTCN to encourage more local businesses to find out how they can benefit.” There’s more information at www.businesslink.gov.uk/realhelp or via your local Business Link Helpline on 0845 600 9006. Business Link customer Annie Sloan Interiors, Oxford (photo by Penny Millar)

News from around the county OTCN has twenty one member organisations working to promote business across Oxfordshire. As a communications network, OTCN also shares news of its members’ work and that of the businesses they represent. For example: The community-business organisation behind the Visit Vale website (www.visitvale.com) is looking for tourism/visitor businesses in the district which would benefit from having a listing. The site now regularly has six pages of events and ‘hits’ have increased significantly. There’s more on Focus on Faringdon CIC at www.focusonfaringdon.co.uk. Thame First A Healthy Living exhibition to celebrate and promote the town's health and beauty related offering was the latest great idea from a business partnership in Thame. Held in the newly refurbished Banqueting Suite of the town’s Spread Eagle Hotel, the event was organised in conjunction with Thame First (formerly Thame Chamber of Commerce).

Cornbury Park Charlbury Business Community member Cornbury Park, home to Lord and Lady Rotherwick, not only plays host to the very popular Cornbury Music Festival, but is also known for the state-of-the-art office space it offers in beautifully converted agricultural barns. There are currently office units available ranging in size from 400 - 4000 sq ft. Call the Estate Office on 01608 811 276 or see www.cornburypark.co.uk

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What’s On In Abingdon A new calendar has been launched to help promote the wide range of events, activities and entertainment going on in Abingdon. The calendar at www.abingdondiary.co.uk aims to promote Abingdon in the early months of 2009 and encourage local people and visitors to come into the town during what is traditionally a quieter time of year. Shop Kidlington Kidlington will be the latest ‘High Street’ business community in Oxfordshire to benefit from the publication of a shoppers’ guide. OTCN is working with Cherwell District Council and the communitybusiness group, Kidlington Voice, on the project. The aim is to promote the range of shops and places to eat and drink in and around Kidlington vil-

lage centre. Students at Gosford Hill School (see picture, left, by Alison Nicholson, 01993 880669) are also playing a part in the project by offering their data collection and design skills. Kidlington Voice’s Chris Pack says: “Kidlington has plenty to offer shoppers. Many living outside Kidlington, and even a number of local residents, are unaware of all that is on offer and for this reason in particular, Kidlington Voice warmly welcomes the new shoppers’ guide.” The printed shoppers’ guide will also have an online version, building on the success of similar projects in Woodstock (www.wakeuptowoodstock.com) and Witney (www.staylongerinwitney.co.uk). …and there’s more! There’s more on OTCN’s work to promote business in Oxfordshire’s towns including the latest cost-saving services (helping businesses reduce telephone and energy overheads), a guide to local networking events, our popular series of ‘How to guides…’ and an introduction to the latest businesses to join a Network member group, at www.otcn.co.uk.

Contact details on page 102

THINKING AND THE BOX Richard Rosser met with John Haigh and Janet Gibbons of Ardington Archives, an independent, private business specialising in the professional management of Business Storage, to discover how their vision for business growth is going against market trendsâ&#x20AC;Śthe right way!

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B4 SPOTLIGHT Talking about the number of boxes stored on site is one thing, but to see them in the flesh is another. Think Indiana Jones with the porter taking the latest boxed artefact into deep storage and you are some way there. Ardington Archive’s owner John Haigh explains how he and his staff have gone to great lengths to ensure they squeeze as much space as possible out of the warehouse before the planned new build is started in the next few months. “We are using all the experience we have built to get the absolute maximum out of the warehouses, and this is mainly to do with what goes in a box. We realised that it was mainly A4 paper going into the boxes; so we designed a box to fit the paper. Originally we had a rather chunky box, but people stuffed it so full that the lid came off. Consequently, when we put it in store, the lid was all over the place. So we made a box with dividers inside it so that it had intrinsic resistance. They are very, very strong as the inserts give them extra stability.” John demonstrates by standing on a box. “We have therefore built the box to fit the paper and then we built the racking to fit the box. There are currently just under ninety thousand boxes across both our storage warehouses but the new building will double this capacity. The first phase of the build is under way with boxes going in within a few months. We need the extra space to keep pace with client demand.” This was said without any smugness, as John recognises these are tough economic times. They are simply growing their document storage business through a determined focus on customer service, to clients who are leading players in their own markets and so demand premium quality from their suppliers. “We walk away from massive tenders where a low price is all that matters. Our natural ground is in the premium end of the market where you have to get it right and where standards matter most.” The original idea for the business had come to John in the early 1990’s. “I came across the story of Flying Flowers, which struck a chord with me. Basically, an accountant on holiday in Jersey came across a small farm selling flowers in small volumes to England. He approached the owner about expanding his business and ran an advert in a national newspaper offering mail order flowers and was inundated with demand – and all this: without production, being paid in advance so needing no capital, employing no full time labour, adding purchasers and recipient’s names to the sales database, risk of big customers withdrawing, keeping the costs largely variable and maintaining very low overheads. I thought that I could do something similar, and came to the conclusion that I could do it with archive storage.” That was 14 years ago and from the outset the latest quality standards have underpinned the business. Originally it was BS5750 leading to ISO 9001; and more recently they have added the environmental standard ISO 14001 and the information security standard ISO 27001. “These are not pieces of paper to hang on the wall for us, we changed our working practices in line with these accreditations.” CEO Janet Gibbons manages the business which John started, “We now have several hundred customers

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storing their archives with us, including many well known names locally and internationally. It is frustrating not to be able to name drop a few, but confidentiality is key. Our client base includes a large number of pharmaceutical, bio-tech and Oxford Science Park-based companies, as we can offer them added security, which is paramount for their type of business. We also have clients in a range of other sectors from multinational manufacturing to national regulatory bodies, hospitals and health care providers to international finance, IT and software companies.” Jan is clearly a people person and the companies she is so proud to work with are not anonymous clients to her, they are valued contacts who she knows personally. “We may lose one or two per cent of business a year but gain at least ten per cent in new sales. We have grown every single year since the business started.” If the limited client turnover and retention is anything to go by, plus the thousands of boxes stored in the two warehouses, then Ardington are certainly doing something right. One element of the success is always looking for ways to innovate and take the business forward. Many of the better ideas have come from working closely with clients, questioning their needs and understanding new trends in the market. Jan explained the latest innovations: “We were approached by a new client to store important documents but they felt that our security vault storage was over-engineering the solution with its climatic control and high level security. What they were most concerned about was fire prevention. So we have introduced the new “Argonite Pod” storage with a rapid fire suppression system using argonite gas, as a mid point solution between the security vault and the main document store. We researched it with existing clients and they told us it made perfect sense, so now we are launching it as a new service.” This innovation theme seems to run throughout the Ardington business. “We have consistently invested in IT and will shortly be able to offer customers access to our on line vault, where they will be able to retrieve documents via our secure site on line. This is a service which can easily be by-passed by a phone call, however, we appreciate that some businesses prefer to do everything on line, and requesting a document or box via an online facility is something we had to offer, and a lot of our customers cannot wait. It is also more in line with our environmental policy, as we don’t have to send out so many trucks on the road with boxes – we can just e-mail a pdf.” The attention to detail is paramount as John confirms, “Complaints are limited. We try to be pro-active in this respect and tell a customer in advance if something has gone wrong, which is rarely. We did lose a box, once, but soon found it!’ Customer service is really the heart of the business. “Our customers can see us thinking about their problems and solving them and improving things continually.” So with his business flourishing, can John say, hand on heart, that he has created his ideal business? “Not in all respects as that is unrealistic, but we are a strong and successful team and the spirit and attitude within the business is exactly what I wanted to achieve.” So onwards and upwards, to the next warehouse!

Contact details on page 102

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B4 ACCOUNTANCY

FREE S EMINAR

Clive Everitt, Shaw Gibbs Insolvency & Corporate Recovery LLP, will be leading a breakfast seminar on the 14th May for credit and financial controllers who want to improve credit control and minimise their exposure to bad debts. To find out more and book a place please call Lucy Morris on 01865 292291 or email:lucy.morris@shawgibbs.com

TAX MATTERS Article written by Lorna Watson & Clive Everitt of Shaw Gibbs In the current economic climate many companies are facing the unpleasant prospect of needing to see an Insolvency Practitioner. It is only too natural in such circumstances that taxation matters may not be to the forefront of the business owners’ mind. Usually practical issues such as how to pay the next month’s wages are far more important. However, money can be saved, tax minimised and the position of both the business owners and its creditors improved via an awareness of the taxation position regarding the end of the business life. Planning in advance is the answer. Unfortunately too often this does not happen. This is due in part to the “head in the sand” syndrome, but also to a lack of understanding of the nature of the advice that can be given by an insolvency practitioner. As Clive Everitt, Insolvency Practitioner explains “many business owners leave it far too late before they come to see us and in particular they have not had a conversation with their tax advisers prior to meeting with us. We always suggest that business owners should speak to someone who has a good working knowledge and experience of taxation relating to insolvency matters as early as possible. This may be with their existing adviser, but often needs to be with a specialist.” The role of the insolvency practitioner who is appointed as an Administrator or Liquidator is set in law and the advice he can give and the actions he can undertake are laid out specifically by the governing legal framework. It is not the Insolvency Practitioner’s role to advise on taxation and restructuring matters before appointment.

The taxation rules governing the end of a business life, whether solvent or insolvent are varied and complex. They depend in part on the specific legal procedure which is being undertaken. In outline these are as follows:Administration - On the appointment of an Administrator the current period chargeable to Corporation Tax automatically ceases. The appointment of an Administrator has no other significant impact on the tax position of the company and in general the company will continue to trade at least for a while. Liquidation - The appointment of a Liquidator has a greater impact. A liquidation can be compulsory or voluntary and the company can be solvent or insolvent. While the company may continue to trade after the commencement of liquidation, the date of the liquidation marks the end of the period chargeable to Corporation Tax. All income arising during liquidation is subject to Corporation Tax. The Liquidator’s remuneration is not deductable for Corporation Tax purposes, although it is often possible to negotiate with the Inland Revenue that a proportion is allowed if it can be shown that it is dealing with the Company’s trading or winding up of assets, rather than specifically the legal role of the Liquidator. Any expenses relating to cessation are allowable, including contractual redundancies and also ex gratia payments made to redundant staff up to 3 times the level of statutory redundancy. Where a Liquidator is able to claim tax repayments and interest is paid by the Inland Revenue that is tax free up to an amount of £2,000. Where the company going into liquidation is a

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member of a Group it is even more important to consider taxation matters prior to the appointment of a Liquidator. The legal role of the Liquidator changes the ownership of a company and means that the group structure is broken. The availability of group relief for trading losses can be lost either in part or totally. There can thus be an unforeseen and unexpected serious change in the taxation position of other companies in the group who are not themselves going into insolvency proceedings. The position with Capital Gains Group is somewhat easier and there are special rules to prevent liquidation breaking up a Capital Gains Group. The importance of a Capital Gains Group is that capital assets can be moved around the group in a neutral tax position. However, if a Liquidator then sells an insolvent company there can be a claw back if capital assets were involved. Again early planning is the key to a void unforeseen tax costs. If planning is done sufficiently early the tax position, particularly where there are assets to realise, can be significantly improved if matters are dealt with prior to the appointment of a Liquidator. There are a number of well tried and tested routes which may involve group restructure, the hive up or down of trades or even such procedures as a Section 110 reconstruction under the Insolvency Acts. All such opportunities will be lost if not considered at an early stage. We therefore advise any company currently experiencing difficulties to speak to their taxation advisers before or in conjunction with first discussions with an Insolvency Practitioner. Contact details on page 102

With over one hundred years experience, Wenn Townsend can certainly lay claim to knowing a thing or two about handling fierce economic conditions, but as Tony Haines explains, uncertainty is the key factor which makes this recession so much harder to predict, “First and foremost, we just don’t know where this recession is going. In the past, we have understood that a recession is a downturn and that it runs its course. We have come to terms with the fact that some recessions were deeper than others, and that the path of a recession was, within reason, fairly straightforward to predict. However, with government ministers telling us that this particular recession is going to be the worst for over a century, the uncertainty surrounding the future blurs even more.” But Tony stresses that burying your head in the sand is, clearly, not an option, and that every business should quickly establish its position. “The sooner a business adapts to the new economic landscape, the sooner it will be able to regain the strength to grow again. The smaller businesses are excellent catalysts for stimulating economic growth because they can adapt easier than larger businesses. Flexibility is the key to survival in an economy that is beginning to run out of steam, and especially a recession that might last for quite a while.

Essential Guide for Businesses”, and B4 readers can obtain their complimentary copy by calling Wenn Townsend on 01865 559900. Tony offers some more insight into the contents and thinking behind the new title.

and tightened. Businesses are in a strong position to negotiate discounts with suppliers, especially if a product or service isn’t quite up to scratch – suppliers will do what they have to to keep your business, and you should exploit this, within reason.”

“One key issue the book focuses on is to encourage businesses to concentrate on the commonsense aspects of their business – in our line of work, it is all too frequent an occurrence that commonsense is lacking! The book highlights common mistakes in three crucial areas: cashflow, sales and marketing. They are the three key areas that most businesses should be most worried about. This is the first in a series of titles, and in the future we will concentrate on employees, suppliers and other areas of business.”

Tony is a strong advocate of the theory that a recession shouldn’t stop business in its tracks and dictate a survival mode means of existence, “A recession should signal opportunity. This may sound ruthless, but businesses are now in a great position to ‘clear the decks’, restructure costs, trim down areas of unnecessary costs and focus on what they are good at. Question everything. Continually ask yourself if what you are doing is adding value to the business. Don’t just do something because you have always done it. If it’s not bringing in business, stop doing it. There is no time for sentiment – if a new venture isn’t working, stop it and concentrate on what is working for you. Up-sell to satisfied customers – this is much easier than spending time and resources digging out new customers.

Cash, as they say, ‘is King’, and with dwindling orders books, many businesses will have noticed that prompt payers are extending payment periods, debtor days are drifting out, and previously surefire bets for payment are all in question. That may sound harsh, but just look at how some of the mighty have fallen over the past twelve months and it raises doubts about even the most, apparently, creditworthy clients. Tony’s advice is to be more thorough when it comes to financial checks, “A vital part of any business should be to assess the creditworthiness of new customers and you should delegate this role now if it is not part of the current process. Because cash is tight, and credit hard

“A true business leader is always looking for opportunities, and may come to the conclusion that cutting costs is not the best way forward. If you can see that investment and expenditure will reap rewards, follow this path, but be sure to recognise when your plans aren’t coming to fruition. A good business will be able to spot an opportunity for growth but, similarly, a

“Decision-making for businesses shouldn’t be solely an internal process, and advice from a professional is crucial.” “As partners, we always discuss how our clients are coping, whatever the economic situation, and these discussions help us to advise. This process has taken place over the past thirty or forty years, and bears fruit, particularly in a downturn. Decision-making for businesses shouldn’t be solely an internal process, and advice from a professional is crucial to help any business cope and make the right decisions. Going it alone in a competitive world can be regarded as reckless in a thriving economy, but when so many variables are conspiring against all businesses, it could prove fatal. “If you are in a position to ride out the storm, but your market has declined rather than completely disappeared, flexibility is the key. Consider what other roles you could ask your employees to perform and what other skill sets they might have to offer. Employers need a workforce that is prepared to go beyond the call – job descriptions have to become more flexible and employees have to be open-minded, or, potentially, they may find themselves out of work completely. Employers have to be frank with their employees, and make clear what the situation is. Rather then reacting, they have to act, and that is the key to progression.” Wenn Townsend have recently commissioned the first in a series of Business Growth publications (pictured right), entitled, “Surviving a Rough Economy….An

to come by, potential customers must be scrutinised thoroughly.”

good business will know when an opportunity has gone.

Getting a lead and making a sale is what makes our business tick. In the current climate, it is important to be vigilant and detect the warning signs when a ‘sale’ comes in. For example, phone calls out of the blue from out of your normal trading area should send alarm bells ringing, as Tony explains, “The criteria for a ‘sale’ in a business can range from a verbal intent to pay to a signed order or a cheque in the post. But the true end of the cycle is when the cash is in the bank. The worst thing any business can do is get excited about a full order book when they haven’t made any background financial checks – ‘busy fools’ lose sight of the warning signs in business and soon run out of cash. If you get a call or order outside of your normal trading catchment area, question it, ask for a deposit – there are plenty of businesses out there looking to benefit from your desperation to make a sale.”

“It is often said that the first thing to be cut in a recession is marketing, but I wouldn’t agree. I think that recruitment costs are certainly affected because, on the whole, firms are looking to cut staff, or, at worst, maintain current staff levels. But businesses looking to steal a march on their competition will look at marketing as a great way to stand out – an opportunity to re-brand or the decision to promote a fresh launch can strike fear into the opposition, and make your business stand out and win you more business when others around you might be flagging.”

Financial control when it comes to spending money should also be tightened up. “Businesses shouldn’t be writing cheques out without full documentation in front of them. Make sure the invoice which you are paying has been delivered in full, or the service performed correctly. As the economy gets tougher, businesses become tempted to override controls - I am convinced that fraud increases in times of recession. Basic, commonsense internal controls have to be addressed

For more information about handing the recession, call Wenn Townsend now on 01865 559900 for a complimentary copy of “Surviving a Rough Economy….An Essential Guide for Businesses”.

Contact details on page 102

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B4 ACCOUNTANCY

LASTING THE DISTANCE

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news Surprise Visit by The Prime Minister to Cancer Centre Oxford On 27th February, the Prime Minister, the Right Honourable Gordon Brown MP, paid a surprise visit to the new Oxford Cancer Centre at the Churchill Hospital, part of the Oxford Radcliffe Hospitals NHS Trust. The Prime Minister was greeted by the Trust’s Acting Chair Dame Fiona Caldicott and the Chief Executive Trevor Campbell Davis. The Prime Minister was accompanied by Parliamentary Under Secretary for Health Services, Ann Keen, and the MP for Oxford East, the Right Honourable Andrew Smith MP. They met with Mrs Vickie Holcroft, Project Director for the £109 million Cancer Centre, and senior clinicians and managers who have been closely involved in the planning of the new Centre. The Prime Minister was given a tour of the innovative inpatient and outpatient facilities, including operating theatres, a dedicated intensive care unit and state-of-the-art radiotherapy facilities, as well as a patient garden. He spoke with a range of clinical and non-clinical staff including oncologists, anaesthetists, nurses, fundraisers and members of the team who have organised the relocation of services to the new Centre. Trevor Campbell Davis said of the visit: “We are immensely proud of these new facilities, and are delighted that at such a busy time the Prime Minister has been able to acknowledge the work of the NHS in Oxfordshire. The Centre is the culmination of several years of dedicated work by the Trust and its partners, and for the first time will bring all cancer services at the Oxford Radcliffe Hospitals into a comprehensive set of buildings and facilities. These will not only enable the delivery of the best in care, but also, with our University

partners, be a base for the latest research into a University of Oxford and bodies such as Cancer Councillor Bob Price, Leader of Oxford City Council is working together with Business Link to help disease that touches the lives of millions. ” Research UK, and patients will have access to the businesses through the credit crunch. latest diagnostic techniques, treatments and The Centre, which opened to patients in March procedures. Staff from the Centre will visit 2009, brings together a wide range of medical, neighbouring hospitals, working with colleagues to surgical and diagnostic services. It will benefit organise treatment as close to home as possible. cancer, renal, transplant, chest medicine and Cancer services will also be provided from the urology patients from Oxfordshire and beyond. Horton Hospital in Banbury, which provides some Cancer services based at the John Radcliffe aspects of cancer care for people in North Hospital, as well as those housed in older buildings Oxfordshire and the surrounding areas. at the Churchill Hospital have been brought together for the first time. The Centre is also a base for research and clinical trials. Clinicians will work in close co-operation with colleagues from the

Future Articles from Oxford Radcliffe Private Healthcare In future editions of B4, we will be continuing features on a wide range of services and procedures offered by Oxford Radcliffe Private Healthcare. See page 46 for first in series.

surgery, performing miracles with eyebrows, general facelifts and nose surgery. These techniques are also adopted for reshaping children’s heads and people with very difficult facial deformities.”

Issue 12 will focus on Plastic Surgeon, Oliver Cassell, who talks to B4 about a wide range of services that his team offer, including reconstructive, cosmetic and cancer surgery.

Issue 13 features gynaecologist Enda McVeigh, who specializes in general gynaecology, reproductive endocrinology, andrology, male and female infertility investigation and management, endometriosis and pelvic pain. Enda warns of the seriousness of endometriosis, a medical condition in women in which endometrial cells are deposited in areas outside the uterine cavity, and tells B4 readers how early detection is key to long term solution.

Here’s just a taster of what Oliver will be talking about, “We carry out procedures such as breast reconstruction by taking flesh from the back or tummy. We trim up tummies, take fat out and move fat around. We have two surgeons in Oxford who are incredibly expert with regards to face plastic

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Contact details on page 102

EAST POINT JOINT VENTURE Frontier Estates and locally based Clarendon Enterprise Centres have signed a joint venture agreement at East Point Business Park in Oxford, injecting fresh impetus into the marketing of this recently refurbished and well establish office location on the Oxford ring road. B4 meet the prime movers behind this fantastic initiative.

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B4 PROPERTY

Milton Keynes based developer, Frontier Estates, and Palmer Capital Partners own the freehold of five office buildings in East Oxford at Sandy Lane. These buildings were some of the first ‘out of town’ offices built in Oxford in the late 1980’s and have formerly been occupied by the Royal Mail, British Biotech and Nominet, but which are all now available to let. “We saw this as a great opportunity to take control of the whole estate and provide refurbished office buildings which we could then re-let at competitive levels in comparison with both the Oxford Business Park and Oxford Science Park,” said Mike Mansell, Director of Frontier. They have had considerable success with the letting of 9,000 sq ft to the Carrier Group, who have moved from Oxford Business Park, but the current economic conditions have proved testing for not only this estate but all office parks around the Ring Road. “We recognise Oxford as a vibrant location because of the healthy economy, even in uncertain times. We also recognise that Oxford is an organic market with a strong start up and small company bias and fewer corporate relocations,” added Steven Wright of Palmer Capital Partners. “This is an institutionally backed fund, including investors of the calibre of Hermes and Black Rock. They invested in Palmer Capital as they saw Palmer Capital as slightly more entrepreneurial, rather more opportunistically lead, which means that ‘bottom-up’ deals like this are presented to them, slightly different in nature to the ‘top down’ proposals which they are used to dealing with.” Frontier and Palmer could have sat on their hands and waited for more conventional interest to arrive, but it was simply not an option. Instead, their agent, Richard Venables of VSL & Partners, brokered a partnership with Clarendon Enterprise Centres. This new alliance will see 30,000 sq ft of office space turned into serviced offices offering a range of flexible office suites to accommodate smaller businesses, as Richard explains, “We are addressing the problems of the current economic climate and the vacancy we have on this site and we are trying to flip that around by saying we are now able to provide a very diverse, attractive office space and facilitating significant investment in the area.” Clarendon Enterprise Centre is a thriving Oxford serviced office provider run by father and son team, Ken and Julian Cooper, already operating successfully in three sites within the City Centre, Bracknell and Bournemouth. Julian Cooper commented, “We will be using state of the art telecoms solutions and can offer a range of options from a virtual office to a fifty work station flexible office. We already have a strong foothold within the city centre and are confident that we will be offering something different to other ring road serviced offices, with competitive pricing and high quality of service which our existing customers have come to expect. At East Point, we will also be operating a Business Lounge for informal meetings, including basic refreshments, which we hope will be popular due to the convenient ring road location. There is a good level of interest in the site already, without, until now, too much marketing, and we are all very optimistic that it will be an excellent site with lots of interest and demand.” The new serviced offices will be ready by early Summer, but other flexible offices from 1,000 – 4,000 sq ft are immediately available. Mike Mansell concluded, “In the current climate, you need to innovate and be flexible and also provide a high quality service to occupiers who face a number of choices in the market. We can now offer anything from a one man office upwards, and we are looking forward to this venture, maintaining Eastpoint as a desirable office location”. Contact details on page 102

INSTANT, FLEXIBLE OFFICE SPACE • Excellent prominence and east access to the Oxford A4142 ring road • One easy service agreement / contract and no legal fees or capital expenditure • Dedicated on-site parking • Access to Clarendon Business Lounge • Meeting room hire • Networking opportunities, free seminars,breakfast meetings and socials

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Photography: Quentin Wiles

Clarendon is pleased to announce their new Business Centres to complement their existing Oxford offices. Both office solutions at Sandford Gate and Heritage Gate offer a host of benefits, including:

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Today Thames Valley….tomorrow the world! country and over 75 customers in the UK and US – including Virgin, Rentokil, Norfolkline, Leapfrog, Next and 25 public sector authorities. FISCAL Technologies is based in the Crowthorne Enterprise Centre, which is one of 15 centres managed by Oxford Innovation. Crowthorne Enterprise Centre provides start-up companies with a professional environment to grow, along with a range of business support services likely to be needed during the first vital years of operation. In the past 6 months, with the help of Crowthorne Enterprise Centre, FISCAL Technologies has grown significantly, and as a result has been able to increase the size of their office size quickly and cost-effectively. The business has doubled its turnover in the last year and is expanding overseas, with a small office just outside Washington DC to help focus on US prospects and has already secured 15 new customers. It is also investing in the development of new products and online managed services to help support companies of all sizes to help reduce financial processing costs and improve payment processes.

To find out more about the range of services Oxford Innovation provides, call: 01235 838555. email: marketing@oxin.co.uk. web: www.oxin.co.uk.

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Contact details on page 102

QUESTIONING REDUNDANCY The employment team at Withy King have been, as you would imagine, fairly busy of late. As companies look to cut staff, re-negotiate contracts and start with a clean sheet of paper in many respects, taking good advice has been crucial. Here, Richard White (RW), Carrie Goodwin (CG) and Sofia McClymont (SM) face B4’s recession questions. B4: In terms of recent statistics, how severe is the impact of the recession in terms of redundancies? RW: Figures from The Office for National Statistics website published in February 2009 demonstrate the extent of the economic pressure on businesses and employees alike in the UK:

CARRIE GOODWIN SOLICITOR Carrie qualified as a solicitor in 2008 having completed her training contract with Withy King. She handles all aspects of employment law. This includes advising on unfair dismissal, discrimination, redundancy and the preparation of contractual documents and policies. She regularly advises and negotiates compromise agreements and also deals with claims in the Employment Tribunal. Carrie is also a member of Employment Lawyers Association and the Law Society.

• In the three months to December 2008, the number of unemployed increased by 146,000 to 1.97 million. • Redundancies for the three months to December 2008 were 259,000. • There were 504,000 job vacancies in the three months to January 2009, down 76,000 quarter on quarter. B4: Is anyone immune from the recession? CG: Very few businesses are completely immune from the effects of the recession. Recent high profile casualties have included Marks and Spencer, Honda, Woolworths, Barclays, Zavvi. ITV recently announced they would be making six hundred job cuts, many of which will be in Leeds, along with other cost saving measures. B4: What is the full impact of redundancies? SM: For many reasons, redundancy is not always the best option, for the following reasons: • Cost - according to a KPMG survey, redundancy can cost £10,000 per job lost. • There is a dip in morale among the ‘survivors’ and a resulting impact on productivity. • The obvious risk of tribunal claims. • A permanent loss of valuable skills and experience from the business. B4: What are the options aside from redundancies? And what are the pros and cons of the other options? RW: For the reasons mentioned above, employers should give consideration to other, more flexible options, prior to deciding that redundancies have to be made. Clearly, redundancies may be necessary depending on the position of the business. However, it is advisable to look at all avenues. For example: Changing employment terms, such as reducing hours of work, or removing benefits. We are seeing an increasing willingness of employees accepting a change in their terms of employment, even if this will reduce their income in the short term. Faced with the prospect of a pay cut, or the risk of being made redundant, most employees are acting pragmatically and agreeing to changes in their terms in order to preserve their jobs. However, employers must take care when seeking to change terms of employment. Unless the contract of employment expressly permits the changes, then changes cannot simply be imposed on employees. Consultation needs to be undertaken first, in order to try and secure the agreement of staff to the proposed changes. If agreement cannot be obtained, then there are options available to employers in order to introduce the changes without the employee’s consent, but strict procedures should be followed to avoid possible unfair or constructive dismissal claims. Pay cuts or payment holidays. Asking employees to take a pay cut for a specified period of time. Again this requires the consent of employees. To try and persuade employees to agree to those changes, consideration should be given to: • Paying the waived salary as a bonus when the company is in a stronger financial position. • Offering some other non-pay benefit in lieu of pay. • The length of the proposed pay cut and what is the extent of the sacrifice.

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B4 LEGAL Sabbaticals, i.e. where the employee agrees to take unpaid leave, or leave with lower pay, with arrangements agreed in advance in respect of the employees return to work. For example, Vauxhall have offered employees the opportunity to take up to a nine month sabbatical on 30% pay between January and September 09.

RICHARD WHITE

A S S O C I AT E Richard qualified as a solicitor in July 2002, having undertaken his training with Withy King. He has a strong client base, mainly comprised of employers, and Richard advises them on all aspects of contentious and non-contentious employment issues. He is the head of the Oxford employment team This includes advising employers on multiple redundancies and business re-organisations, and also acting for senior employees, advising them on their contractual terms and severance agreements. Richard regularly appears in Employment Tribunals, acting mainly on behalf of employers in unfair and wrongful dismissal, breach of contract and wages claims. He has a particular interest in discrimination cases and is a member of the Employment Lawyers Association and the Law Society.

SOFIA MCCLYMONT

SOLICITOR Sofia qualified as a solicitor in 2006. She handles all aspects of employment law and specialises in both contentious and non-contentious employment work, advising on unfair dismissal, discrimination, redundancy and the preparation of contractual documents. Sofia regularly writes employment articles to feature in the Employment Law bulletins that are sent to clients and other interested parties. She also drafts and presents seminars and training on employment law issues. Sofia is an Affiliate of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development as well as an active committee member of the Swindon Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. She is also a member of the Employment Lawyers Association and the Law Society.

Sabbaticals bring immediate cost savings, and hopefully mean that a trained and experienced employee will not be lost to the business. The biggest issue is achieving clarity about the terms of the employeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s return to work. Freeze on pay rises or a ban on overtime. These types of measures can produce immediate cost savings, but be careful not to fall foul of any contractual rights that the employees might have to a pay rise or guaranteed overtime (unlikely but possible). Outsourcing, i.e. appointing a third party supplier to provide you with services that, up until now, you have done yourself. There are benefits to outsourcing, although cost savings may not be significant and consideration needs to be given to what the implications may be if and when the outsourcing contract is terminated. It may well be that you have to take on all of the supplierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s employees who have been employed by the supplier in providing the service to you. Short-time working / lay offs. It may be possible, if there is the right under employeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s contracts of employment, to impose short-time working (i.e. reduced hours) or to lay people off from work for a limited period of time. This is not applicable to the majority of employers, but is sometimes used in particular industries such as manufacturing businesses. What if you have to make redundancies? Obviously consideration may need to be given to compulsory redundancies if the type of measures outlined above do not produce the required savings. Prior to making compulsory redundancies though, it is worth considering whether to ask for volunteers for redundancy, which can lessen the impact on the rest of the workforce. There are specific procedures that must be followed in redundancy situations. The consequences of failing to follow the procedures can be severe in terms of the risk of tribunal claims against the company (e.g. for unfair dismissal or discrimination), particularly where the business is contemplating making twenty or more employees redundant.

Making redundancies, if that is the course you have to follow, is never an easy path. Taking good legal advice is crucial to avoid a difficult situation spiralling into a very costly one. Richard is offering a free 2 hour in-house training session on the new ACAS Code on Disciplinary and Grievance procedures, which are effective from 6 April 2009, to the first 2 employers who email their details to him at Richard.White@withyking.co.uk

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Contact details on page 102

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B4 FEATURE

A BLOOMING ROSE

Situated on the High Street in the centre of Oxford, The Rose, with its first class food, friendly, buzzing atmosphere and excellent service attracts a great variety of visitors. Soon approaching The Rose’s tenth anniversary, B4’s Katie Avis-Riordan met Marianne Bruel, The Rose’s owner, to discover her recipe for success. “I have been doing this for ten years now. I am Swedish born, but of Danish parentage. I am a qualified architect from Denmark and worked as an architect, but food has always been my passion, even though I hate the word! Words are so cheap but food is my life. I was born in Gothenburg and lived in Copenhagen. I came to England in 1989 withmy husband, Holger. We had been together for many years before we came to England after meeting in Copenhagen. Holger is a chemical engineer by profession.” You don’t let him in the kitchen then? “Well, he has moved away from the kitchen! He was quite capable when I met him, but he has now proved himself very capable at enjoying my food! “Before I embarked on this journey, I wrote to Franco Taruschio at The Walnut Tree in Wales, which he and his wife had run for about thirty five years. Then they sold it about eight years ago - it was recently part of a not so flattering documentary for Gordon Ramsey’s Kitchen Nightmares. It has since been taken over by Shaun Hill, a Michelin star chef. Franco also sent me to Shaun in Ludlow to see how his kitchen worked. I asked Franco if he would take me on as an unpaid intern, quite an “ask” at fifty four, to see whether I could stand on my feet for sixteen hours and handle the pace of a kitchen. You need to know that you have the stamina. “Fundamentally, I am totally self-taught. I have not been through the training. I only spent a couple of months with Franco, on and off. He sent me to Shaun Hill because he said I needed to know not just what his kitchen looked like but needed to know how other kitchens worked. And Shaun Hill was, like me, a one man show. He had his wife and one other waitress to help out. It was very interesting to see how Shaun juggled. He was fully booked for a month ahead so he knew exactly how he could run his business, and he did very well. He is now doing very well with The Walnut Tree, which is close to Abergavenny. “So that is what I did. I began looking for premises and this came up. I was living in Oxford at the time so my roots were in Oxford. This place was a grotty little café and I knew my thirty seats were not going to be enough. And that was a real problem

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Contact details on page 102

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So what is your view on the UK property market and Oxford in particular? The property market in Oxford has undoubtedly taken a hit. Sales have slowed and the market price has fallen. Property has fallen across the UK and Oxford is not immune to this downturn. People involved in the Oxford property market often say that Oxford is resilient, even “recession-proof” in market down turns. Is that true? Oxford does have some special attributes. The population is transient, which contributes to a steady changover and sales. Historically, high density development leaves little room for expansion of new build homes, which in turn restricts over supply. The university and hospital contribute to the economy regardless of the health of the nation. During the last two recessions, Oxford’s recovery has outpaced other cities, although it is not impervious to downturn. What evidence is there to suggest that the downturn is impacting on Oxfordshire businesses? It’s bumpy. Cluttons is closing its Oxford offices and JC Penny estate agents in Jericho have just entered liquidation. BMW’s mini sales are reported down 30.9% (month on month sales compared with 2008)

and as a result have released 850 workers. Mervyn King has admitted the UK is in deep recession, and in February he forecast that the economic growth would fall by 4% in 2009, but bear in mind that he has been under forecasting over the last 18 months. What bright news is there, where can people invest their savings without losing their shirt? Change always brings opportunity, the shrewd investor can achieve a great deal in a downturn, cash is King, and this will remain a significant part of any investment for the next ten years, in my opinion. Someone somewhere will always benefit from the changing economy, take Kentucky Fried Chicken as an example. They expect to create 9000 new jobs opening between two and three hundred new restaurants in the UK and Ireland over the next few years. What about the man and woman in the street, where can they invest their savings? After all, the banks are paying nothing in interest on any hard earned savings that have been deposited for a rainy day, despite the fact that they are charging exorbitant rates of interest on borrowings. Well, Richard some of the best brains have got this wrong recently. In many ways, this deep recession has been caused by over complicated investment products. Alan Greenspan, the last Chairman of the Federal Reserve in the USA, admitted that he was

unable to understand the complicated AAA rated amalgamated packages that were sold around the world based on sophisticated mathematical formulas. My advice is to stick to what you understand, at least if you understand it there is a chance that someone else will also be willing to buy an understandable investment, which means a market can be sustained. Can you be more specific? Let’s look at three areas. The criteria is simplicity, buy something in demand or where there is an underlying shortage, an investment that everybody understands. The market must be established to allow buying and selling of the investment, e.g. stock exchange, forex commodities market. A lot depends on whether you require a return or you want capital appreciation of the underlying asset. I know everyone would like both, but this is unrealistic and unsustainable in the current climate. Start with Capital Growth over the medium term One area that is particularly well understood and where there is a global market to trade is Gold. Gold performs best when people are unsure, instability increases the desire to hold gold. Gold can be traded anywhere in the world.

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B4 FINANCE

INVESTMENT

OPTIONS

In this issue’s discussion with Robin Swailes, owner of local property company, North Oxford Property Services, we ask Robin about his views on the future of the property market, and other investment options such as commodities and shares. B4’s Richard Rosser asks the questions.

Gold can be held in many forms, from the physical product, a sovereign, a krugerrand or even a kilo of Gold. ATS bullion supply Kruggerrands, sovereigns and kilos of gold by recorded post. See www.atsbullion.com. ATS is situated beside the Savoy Hotel in London. Why not pop in, ask for Linda Warner who has worked in the gold business for many, years or telephone 0207 240 4041. Gold can also be held in shares. Pick a mining company with a heavy weighting of gold ore and the share price may reflect the underlying value. This is one step removed from the physical commodity, so tread carefully and take advice from your stock broker. The alternative to owning the physical gold but not having to actually hide it under the floor boards is to purchase/store your gold. Your gold is your outright property, stored in specialist facilities reserved exclusively for BullionVault. You pay a small premium for the storing facility. If this is for you, contact bullion vault on 020 8600 0130 or web www.gold.bullionvault.com. Thank you Robin for this comprehensive view on

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Gold and how you can potentially invest in it. As a businessman with investments, can you give the reader your view on an investment that will give a monthly return to investors? An investment where ordinary people can achieve an income each month that they can rely on. An investment that beats the low returns of the banks?

short supply and everyone needs to live under a roof. However, best of all, it can reward you with a monthly income.

In this economic environment, where Banks have had to be nationalised and established high street names vanish into thin air, then you need to get back to basics. Nothing is ever 100% safe and the Northern Rock and Halifax/HBOS debacle highlights this point.

You asked for a medium term view on investment, well if you can turn this into a medium to long term investment (say ten to twelve years) then you may also achieve a capital increase on the underlying value of the property.

In considering the dangers that lurk for any investment in these unprecedented times, I personally believe that property is as safe an investment as you can have.

If your objective is to see a reasonable return on your money in the short term then central oxford property is hard to beat as an investment.

Why? Property prices have fallen and may continue to do so

Is property hard to manage if you are new to the “game”?

Yes this is true, but so have shares and the bank return on your savings is negligible. Property is tangible and will always hold a value. Can you say the same for what was AAA rated bank Royal Bank of Scotland shares or trendy Carphone Warehouse shares which have fallen by 60% this year. Pensions, too, have performed poorly.

Not if you have a good agent (I would say that wouldn’t I!) but, seriously, an established management agent will take all the hard work and any stress out of the purchase, setting up and letting of the property.

Property belongs to you, it is substantial, you can leave it to your next of kin (unlike most pensions), it is in

Property well chosen in the centre of Oxford can still return a gross yield between 5% and 7%, which is very attractive in today’s climate.

A competent letting agent will turn you into an armchair investor by undertaking all the background work and letting the property to quality tenants. Call us now to understand more about the Oxford property market and how to pick the best investment.

Contact details on page 102

Photography: Studio8. Tel: 01865 842525.

Did you know the SAS are despatched on missions with Gold sovereigns concealed in their kit? This allows them to operate in any part of the world where they might need to trade for food, munitions medical help etc…..

THE GUV’NOR

Oxford Castle General Manager Jean-Pierre Morilleau is tasked with not only establishing Oxford Castle as the target destination for visitors to and residents of Oxford, he also has to achieve that with limited support. Here he talks to Richard Rosser about his past, present and future and reveals his frustrations at having to operate within a restricted environment. Before the trials and tribulations which awaited him at Oxford Castle, Jean-Pierre can boast a CV which includes successful spells at Claridges for four years (combine French chic with English manners and charisma and that pretty well paints the picture of the man sat before me), Vinopolis, the wine museum on London Bridge, for three years, and a South African Investment bank, to gain more knowledge about leases for three years. Reporting directly to Trevor Osborne, the focus of our lead interview in B4 Issue 10, Jean-Pierre tells me how that association came about, “Somebody I knew told me that Trevor was looking for someone to run a new and exciting place in Oxford. I contacted Trevor and basically came here for a ‘walk-around interview’. And that was it. I was sold really early on. The only thing I was not sure about was the opening date. There was still so much scaffolding about. It was like a shell, and the ensuing fire didn’t fill me with confidence! It was well behind schedule. “I did my research on Trevor before I made my decision. I was looking for a new challenge but, despite the reservations I had from my physical observations of Oxford Castle, I didn’t feel like I was taking a chance. I had made up my mind. Trevor said he hoped we would keep in touch, which we obviously did, and I started here in September 2005. “Oxford Castle, as far as everyone was concerned, was open in July 2005. But when I started in September, it most certainly wasn’t. It was crazy. We opened Tootsies, then Carluccio’s and then HaHa Bar. Malmaison opened on November 25th 2005, the date of the official launch party, followed by a general opening to which two and a half thousand people were invited. “The biggest event after that was in May 2006 when the Queen opened the site. I remember Trevor coming to me in December saying that we were going to have a civil opening. He said, quite nonchalantly, that he thought it would be The Queen! Just to underline the significance of this, The Queen doesn’t officially open commercial venues, so she had to be invited through the county council to open the heritage project. “And, as you can imagine, the world and his wife plus a few friends of each wanted to meet the Queen! It became really difficult. We selected who met the Queen and who should have prime position to meet

her. A lot of people were very unhappy that they weren’t involved, but what could we do? The event itself was a huge success, despite massive problems with personnel, security etc… as you would expect when welcoming one of the most important people on the planet to your site.” And since the Queen declared the Castle open, the site has gradually established itself as a venue for great food, drink and culture. Who can forget the chain of Krispy Kreme ‘munchers’ when the outlet opened with a mountain of free donuts given away at Oxford station, or the ice rink, Creation Theatre performing in the Exercise Yard, or the fantastic collection of Earth from the Air photographs which graced the Castle recently? You have to give Oxford Castle a pat on the back for endeavour and graft, because attracting visitors and residents to this part of the City is not easy, especially when you are fighting against hundreds of years of history in the shape of the University Colleges. “I think the way that Oxford seems to strangle itself when it comes to promoting business is worrying. It is very difficult for businesses to flourish, primarily because signposting is not allowed. As someone visiting Oxford who knows nothing about the City, where do I go if I am dropped off at Carfax? There is nothing, anywhere, to tell me where to go. There are no signs to the station or other major points of reference. In big cities now, the only way you can direct people is visually. A lot of people walk randomly these days – it seems they would prefer to walk around shops not buying anything than going to the zoo or the countryside. “So the frustration for us here at Oxford Castle is that there are thousands of potential customers milling around Oxford City Centre, not knowing we exist. On every street corner in London there is a sign or placard telling you where you are and where you can go. All we have here in Oxford are finger signs. “In all honesty, I think doing business in Oxford is getting harder. So a new strategy for the site is to make our position more obvious. We have recently printed an excellent map which is being widely distributed, and we are on the radio, in the newspapers and in In Oxford Magazine. “The problem which Oxford faces as a whole is that it is not like London; people spend four days in London, but people come to Oxford just for the day. We don’t have a centralized system to drive the tourists around,

to tell them where to go. And this means that businesses are individually doing it for themselves, including us.” Despite this obvious irritation, Jean-Pierre is happy with the performance of Oxford Castle as a whole, “On the positive side, the site is doing very well. There have been slow moments, but I think everybody has reacted by doing more publicity. The tenants seem to be doing vouchers at the moment, which are working very well. “It was disappointing to see HaHa Bar go into administration, but then we have had all of the tenants in place for over four years, so one casualty in this period isn’t too bad. And interest for the site is strong, so we would hope to have someone in place soon.” But Oxford Castle’s latest fantastic initiative is the launch of weekly market stalls every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 10am until 4pm with Live Music, all year round. “The market has stimulated a considerable amount of interest. The Covered Market tenants have shown a great deal of support and interest. “What we want people to do is to create their own little business, either as an add-on to an existing physical business or as a starter for those fledgling businesses who can’t afford premises. It is a great mix. However, we want to maintain a high level of quality, so we are quite specific about who we invite in. We will also have music on market days to help create an atmosphere. In return for the traders we will be advertising them as individuals as part of the market. So they will get free advertising as part of the whole, which is good for everyone. They give me the commitment that they will be here, and I give them complimentary advertising. “We will also be staging an Opera Night for two nights on June 30th and July 1st, a charity event for the John Radcliffe Hospital’s cancer unit, and, in early September, there is going to be a full week of cinema in the exercise yard, organised by local students, with covered seating. Creation Theatre will also be back for the Summer season” Oxford Castle is a fantastic development on our doorstep, and with first class restaurants in a safe and friendly environment, make sure you pay the new market a visit and support not only Oxford Castle, but the local independent businesses who are making Oxford Castle a venue to be proud of. Contact details on page 102

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B4 SPOTLIGHT

Photography: www.studio-8.co.uk

“What we want people to do is to create their own little business, either as an add-on to an existing physical business or as a starter for those fledgling businesses who can’t afford premises. ”

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OXFORD CASTLE

M ARKET WITH LIVE MUSIC

from 10am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4pm every, Tuesday, Friday & Saturday For more information visit www.oxfordcastle.com or info@oxfordcastle.com

www.oxfordcastle.com

B4 IT

SOPHOS: INFORMATION PROTECTION Data loss has become one of the most common news themes over the last few years. Whether the incidents occur through human error or via hacking attacks, organisations must prevent these embarrassing and costly episodes. Education will go some way in thwarting the risks of data leakage but organisations also need to consider a wider, consolidated approach to IT security, advises Abingdon-based experts Sophos. IT administrators used to have to worry about viruses that could corrupt or destroy data. These early cyber threats were designed primarily to cause mayhem however the landscape has changed and now information is being stolen for financial gain. In recent years the ways in which data can be shared, and subsequently lost, have grown significantly. Instant messaging, blogging, social networking and portable devices all provide a route in or out of the corporate network. With all these vectors to worry about, organisations should consider adopting a new approach to fighting the risks of internal and external data loss. Internal In October 2007, a junior official at HMRC mailed two CD Roms containing unencrypted information on 25 million individuals to the National Audit Office. The unencrypted disks were lost and the IT procedures of the UK government were subsequently put under public scrutiny and heavily criticised in the media. The government was once more the victim of data loss when, in June 2008, a batch of top secret terror files were left on a London commuter train. The question is how can organisations restrict the access and print reproduction of electronic documents? Aside from vitally important education of staff, there are two technology-based approaches to mitigating the risk of these kinds of data loss incidents. Firstly, there is the hardware set up. Do all users require access to printers, CD-Rom drives or network drives? Usually the answer will be no, particularly if guest access is also offered. One option is to employ Network Access

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Control (NAC) and other control solutions. Broadly speaking, NAC is employed to continually assess all endpoints connected to a network; it is integrated with endpoints and can ensure that machines which do not comply with policy are not able to use network resources. Users and endpoints can also be given varying levels of access to the network â&#x20AC;&#x201C; giving only authorised users access to network drives containing sensitive data or a printer. Solutions also exist to control the programmes allowed to run on endpoints. These very powerful tools designed to close off many different routes to data loss, by blocking, for example, the use of instant messaging, social networking websites or file sharing applications on work computers. Email however remains the biggest liability in terms of data loss but email appliances can be installed and configured to ban the transmission of messages containing certain words or phrases, or to stop emails with certain attachments being sent externally. Furthermore, encrypting emails will ensure that messages can only be read by intended recipients. Another method by which data has been commonly lost or stolen by employees is via removable hardware devices - since 2002, Whitehall has lost an average of five laptops a week. USB sticks too have been the subject of data loss cases â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in August 2008, a private contractor lost a USB stick containing details on every single prisoner in the UK. Again, encryption is perhaps the most effective way to tackle this issue. In addition, endpoint security solutions can be configured to disable the use of USB drives.

External The purpose of a direct hacking attack on organisations will primarily be to steal confidential data. Usually, these kinds of hacks are relatively sophisticated. However, aside from the obvious policy related steps of routinely changing passwords, it is possible to thwart these kinds of attacks. Gateway products can alert and record access attempts â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and endpoint protection suites prevent the installation of any hacking tools which facilitate remote access. One of the biggest threats to the integrity of the corporate network is web-borne malware. Cybercriminals are hacking legitimate websites in order to plant malware which is then used to steal information or grant remote access, and may open the network to snooping and the theft of other corporate data. In 2008, Sophos identified that 90% of infected webpages were on bonafide sites. To defend against these risks, businesses should invest in web security solutions that scan every website before granting access. Consolidation Organisations of all sizes need to recognise the threat posed by data loss and take the necessary steps in preventing these incidents. A number of technology solutions are available to mitigate the risk. While an approach beyond simple anti-virus software is required, education should not be swept under the carpet and remains a vital tool in defending against the threat. The best advice is to assess the specific needs of the business in order to implement the best defences. Contact details on page 102

PRIVATE HEALTHCARE

In the first of a series of four interviews, John Radcliffe consultant surgeon, Nick Maynard, provides Richard Rosser with an insight into the world of Private Healthcare, introducing B4 readers to the first class collection of surgeons and excellent support staff, gradually establishing themselves as second to none in the country. Nick Maynard specialises in upper gastrointestinalsurgery, essentially surgery of the esophagus, or the gullet, and the stomach, “I have been a consultant for eleven years now. When I started, I was the only surgeon practising this sort of surgery in Oxford, and we have now just appointed our third consultant. I built up the unit for the first seven years by myself and we then appointed a second consultant Bob Marshall four years ago and then Bruno Sgromo became the third member of our team just a few months ago. “Bob has been a great asset. He and I trained together at Guy’s Hospital. I was two or three years Bob’s senior, but we always got on well and we both trained under two very well known oesophageal surgeons, Bill Owen and Bob Mason. I came up to Oxford in 1997 and set up the Oxford OesophagoGastric centre to deal with all of the diseases of the oesophagus and the stomach. Because cancer of the oesophagus is probably growing faster than any other cancer in the world at the moment, most of my efforts in the last eleven years have been devoted to providing a service to deal with this particular disease. “We have now built up a very large, and what I call high volume unit, which ranks in the top two or three in the country. Indeed, we are currently settling in to the new Oxford Cancer Centre, and we are very excited about the new facility, which has cost in the region of one hundred and twelve million pounds.” One of the developments that Nick and his team have pioneered in Oxford is the development of keyhole or minimally invasive surgery for diseases of the oesophagus and the stomach in particular. “What we were very keen to get for our new cancer centre was a brand new state of the art operating theatre for keyhole surgery, which is a fully computerised operating theatre, which allows us to do even more advanced keyhole surgery in particular. For understandable reasons, the NHS cannot fund absolutely everything, so we went out and raised the money. Through a combination of events like a charity dinner with Lawrence Dallaglio and Jeffrey Archer, we have raised a total of three hundred and eighty thousand pounds.” Gastric Bands Our real target now is to develop keyhole surgery to help people who are very overweight. The role of surgery to help people lose weight has changed really quite dramatically over the last few years. There has been a perception, certainly incorrectly, that this is largely cosmetic surgery, and I think the role of this surgery has changed so much for two main reasons. Firstly there are now a lot of techniques available to do this surgery by keyhole or minimally invasive surgery. Secondly, there is the recognition that this sort of surgery can reduce all of the serious complications of being overweight and make people much healthier, actually prolonging their life

and, in the longer term, reducing all the illnesses they have that are related to their obesity.” There are a lot of diseases, if not entirely caused by obesity, which are certainly made much worse by obesity, as Nick goes on to explain, “Diabetes can lead directly to heart disease, vascular disease, eye disease, all of which costs the NHS an enormous amount of money. The other diseases that obesity causes are arthritis, very severe breathing problems…. the list goes on. There is now overwhelming evidence that if you can get these people to lose weight, then these diseases may well recede, thereby reducing the costs of these diseases significantly. There is overwhelming evidence that people benefit from this surgery. For example, we can cure seventy percent of patients with diabetes from these operations. And that will save the NHS a vast amount of money. “We assess obesity by measuring the Body Mass Index (BMI) describing the relationship between weight and height, and there is clear evidence that people with a Body Mass Index of more than thirty five do benefit from this surgery. There are many people who would qualify for such surgery and due to public funding limitations, a lot of people are turning to have this surgery performed privately. My team and I are able to provide this service through Oxford Radcliffe Private Healthcare, which is the private arm of the Trust.

“…..top rate surgical service that will rival anywhere in the country.” And Nick is more than confident that he has a team more than capable of satisfying the increasing demand for this type of surgery. “Bruno Sgromo has been our senior fellow for the last year and a half, and is a very gifted surgeon, who has been instrumental in setting up our team. We have three surgeons (myself, Bob Marshall and Bruno) who are extremely experienced in laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery to the stomach and oesophagus. We have a specialist dietician, and we have just appointed a senior clinical nurse specialist, whose sole job is to look after these patients. We have a diabetes specialist, an endocrinology specialist, respiratory specialist, and psychologists, all of whom are vital members of our Multidisciplinary Team. We now have the necessary infrastructure in place and the John Radcliffe hospital has been very supportive in making these appointments. We now have a team able to give an absolute top rate surgical service that will rival anywhere in the country.” With the increasing availability of information on the internet, with potential patients becoming more aware of the availability of treatment for an all too common problem, demand is outstripping supply, forcing patients to take the private route. The Oxford Radcliffe Trust are now able to satisfy this increased demand through its new private facility, The

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B4 HEALTH Wytham Wing on the Churchill site in Headington. And Nick is convinced this demand will continue to grow. “Absolutely, I think there is going to be an increasingly huge demand. I think the media has caught on to it now. A few well known personalities, Fern Britton for example, have had this surgery. I think there is much education needed to let people know that it is available. In my opinion, there will always be a market for people paying to have this surgery performed privately because they want to solve their problems almost immediately. And I think patients will be hard pressed to find a better service than that which we provide in Oxford.” Broadly speaking there are two operations to help people lose weight, which Nick and his team are concentrating on. The most common in the United Kingdom is something called the gastric band, which is essentially an inflatable band, as Nick explains, “This is performed via four or five very small cuts in the skin, and it is a band which we put around the very top of the stomach which is gradually, over a period of time, inflated. The band is attached to an access port which is buried beneath the skin over the abdomen, and we can inject that over the next few months and change the amount of restriction over the stomach. Basically, it constricts the upper stomach, and restricts the amount of food that can be eaten. That is the simplest operation but requires a lot of input afterwards.

“….this surgery can have a significant impact on other illnesses.” “The other operation is what is called a gastric bypass operation, which is more complicated but leads to more weight loss and is probably better suited for the very, very obese. But it is irreversible. The great thing about the band is that it is adjustable. The gastric band takes about an hour to fit and the gastric bypass takes about three hours.”

Photography: www.studio-8.co.uk

I put to Nick that some people are overweight or obese through no fault of their own due to a hormone imbalance and asked whether such operations could, potentially, upset this balance and lead to more serious problems, “It’s a very interesting question. As a general rule people are overweight because they eat more and have a lack of exercise. There is no doubt that some people are much more prone to it than others. And sometimes there are a lot of hormonal imbalances which lead to that. We are working very closely with OCDEM (Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism) because they are very interested in the hormonal causes of obesity. We are setting up some very interesting research programmes on patients who are overweight and having surgery. There is no evidence that this surgery can lead to hormonal imbalances which would make patients ill as a result. I think that the overwhelming evidence is that this surgery can have a significant impact on other illnesses, for which there is overwhelming statistical proof.”

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“……you are the first people to take this seriously” One key factor for Nick’s team to take into account is the psychological effect of being obese. “This is a

critical issue and cannot be underestimated. These patients have huge psychological distress and what has really struck Bob and me repeatedly in clinics are the patients who came in and say, amidst the tears and emotion, ‘you are the first people to take this seriously’. These patients are crying out for help because it is a very real disease. There is no doubt these people have tried very hard to lose weight and it is not just a question of telling them to eat less.” When Nick’s patients do lose a lot of weight from what his team are able to do, they feel massively healthier, there is a good chance they will become non-diabetic or certainly have far less requirements for insulin; they are much more mobile and their self-esteem goes sky-high. But, they are left with a lot of redundant skin, as Nick identifies, “They have a lot of concerns about their body contours and have a lot of excess skin, particularly in the abdomen. That is where plastic surgery can be really important. That is something that will never be funded by the NHS because it is cosmetic, but it is nevertheless vital and again improves their self-esteem.” But Nick’s current focus is on the new Cancer Centre in Headington, and he is positively bursting at the seams, knowing that this totally revolutionizes what he and his magnificent team can do, “Our whole unit is moving; our offices, our wards, and we will have this fantastic new computerized operating theatre. The correct phrase to use is Computerised Integrated Theatre, or CIT. It is state of the art and very exciting. There is one CIT purely for private practice and so we will be able to help both the NHS and all of the private patients. We feel that with the new unit, the existing skills of the three surgeons and the entire team and with the new technology that is going to be available to us, we can provide the best possible surgical service to treat the morbidly obese, which will rival any other such service in the country.”

NICK

M AY N A R D “I spent the first years of my medical training at Oxford University, Exeter College, from 1980 to 1983. That was the pre-clinical part of the training course. I graduated from Oxford and then I went down to Guy’s Hospital in London for the clinical part of my medical course, for three years. I qualified at Guy’s in 1986, completed my junior doctor training, predominantly at Guy’s and surrounding hospitals, with a brief spell at the old Radcliffe Infirmary as a junior doctor. I then spent a year and a half in Melbourne, in Australia, completing some of my specialist surgical training, and then I finished specialist training in oesophageal and gastric surgery at Guy’s hospital working for Bill Owen and Bob Mason, which has been one of the best training grounds for esophageal surgery in the country. At the age of thirty-five, I was appointed as a consultant in Oxford in 1997.

Contact details on page 102

ABOUT TONY STRATTON As well as being Chairman of CPM, Tony is also Chairman of Tonic Life Communications PR and The Quantic Group and a non-executive director of RT Marketing and Unisono Field Marketing in China, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and a past President of Thame Show. He has lived in Oxfordshire since 1975 and is a Deputy Lieutenant of the County.

Richard Rosser met with Oxford Inspires Chairman, Tony Stratton, who gives B4 readers an insight into the history of Oxford Inspires and how this wonderful organisation has evolved and will continue to develop long into the future. Words by Katie Avis-Riordan As Chairman of CPM, Europe's leading sales

organisations, and there are a number of reasons

development agency, Tony explains how he

for that.

made his first connection with a cultural organisation, “CPM became the first corporate

“Firstly, the development of CSR (Corporate Social

sponsor of the Oxford Playhouse in 1991 and

Responsibility). Increasingly, boards of businesses,

because of that association, I saw how cultural

both large and small, are saying ‘we need to be able

organisations needed help. So when I was asked

to report to our stakeholders—our shareholders—

to be chair of Max—a publicly funded arts

about what we’re giving back to the community’.

marketing agency in Oxford—in 1993, it was very

Cultural engagement can facilitate CSR.

easy to say ‘yes’. And when I was asked to join the board of Oxford Inspires, it was an even

“Secondly, we believe that business engagement

easier decision, because you realise that cultural

with cultural organisations can have a positive

OX F O R D I N S PI R E S

organisations, however good they are, need

impact on staff relationships and staff motivation. All

help. They are no different to any other

businesses–particularly ‘people businesses’–are

organisation in that respect.

more successful if they’re able to attract and retain highly motivated, highly productive staff. High

“It’s why businesses have non-executive directors;

productivity is derived from a mixture of motivation

it’s why individuals have mentors; because one

in the individual and commitment to the firm, and to

individual, one organisation, won’t necessarily be

earn that commitment, the firm has to behave in a

able to do everything that it needs to do. Particularly

particular way. If employees see the organisation

Oxfordshire is a modern county, a global leader in science, technology, and biomedical research, with over 1000 years of rich and fascinating history. Oxford Inspires is the cultural development agency for Oxfordshire. We create new opportunities for arts and heritage organisations, nurturing new festivals and spectacular events.

small, cultural organisations which are normally very

putting something back into the community, then

creative and innovatively based, they need

they’ll feel positive about their business. If their

marketing and commercial help. I think I became

business is purely focused on paying out dividends

part of the Oxford Inspires board to help with their

to shareholders or bonuses to bosses, then staff can

communications and the wider marketing mix.”

be, understandably, rather less enthusiastic.

And Tony has certainly been influential in securing

“There’s also the chance to give staff the opportunity

We also work to engage as many people as possible in exciting and enjoyable cultural experiences, raising Oxfordshire's profile as a cultural destination within the UK and internationally.

funding from heavyweight organisations, although

to get engaged in initiatives they wouldn’t otherwise

he plays down his role, “That Oxford Inspires is able

get engaged in – either through free or discounted

to, and continues to be able to, attract funding from

tickets or the opportunity to get hands-on

Oxfordshire County Council, Oxford City Council, The

experience in an appropriate cultural activity.

University of Oxford, Oxford Brookes University and We collaborate with cultural organisations across Oxfordshire to support their ambitions and to help them to reach a wider audience. We work closely with our founding partners, Oxfordshire County Council, Oxford City Council, The University of Oxford, Oxford Brookes University and Arts Council England. We are also grateful for the support of Oxfordshire's business community through our Corporate Members as follows:

B4 Magazine The Barceló Oxford Hotel Berman Guedes Stretton Bicester Village Blake Lapthorn Blenheim Colour Limited BMW Group Plant Oxford Carbon Colour The Corner Club CPM Finders Keepers First Great Western Four Pillars Hotels

Hook Norton Brewery Infineum ImageWorks Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons Lucy Properties Oxford Bus Company Oxford Castle Richardsons Chartered Accountants Torpedo VSL Commercial Property Consultants

Oxford Inspires and partners are the proud winners of the 2008 Arts and Business Sustainability Award with BMW Group Plant Oxford and the Cultural Branding Award with Hook Norton Brewery.

Arts Council England is a great testament to what

“I remember when CPM were supporters of the

has been achieved to date and what is planned for

Music and Fireworks Concerts that used to take

the future. That aside, we realised that we needed

place at Radley. It gave us the opportunity to give

to engage the business community, although it took

our staff and their families a fantastic night (there

a little while for that to dawn upon us.

were over two hundred and fifty of us in total). We also had a magical evening for customers at Radley,

“That’s where Kathelene Weiss came in. Kathelene

and when the concerts stopped, our clients asked

joined us four years ago and started to talk to

us ‘Aren’t we going to Radley this year?’ So it works

business in the city and the wider county. We are

for staff, and it obviously works for clients.

now at a point where we think we should be doing more with business, or rather we should enable

In the current climate, corporate hospitality and

businesses to do more, because, after all, we are an

client entertaining are being scaled down. So,

enabling organisation. And that is an interesting

Oxfordshire businesses are able to work with Oxford

challenge for us now because we’re in as difficult

Inspires to really tailor what they want to achieve

an economic state as we’ve been for many years

with their customers, because, in difficult times,

and, believe me, I can remember a couple of

loving your customers is absolutely vital.

downturns in my time. “There’s a real difference between a satisfied “We have quite a tactical challenge within our

customer and a committed customer. Satisfied

overall strategy of engaging business, through

customers will stay with you but keep an eye open

Oxford Inspires, with culture. We believe that

for something better; a committed customer is just

business has a fabulous opportunity to gain

that and wouldn’t ever dream of going anywhere

significant benefits by working with cultural

else. Commitment is generated not just through

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B4 SPOTLIGHT

great delivery of the service or product, but through the relationship that the individual and the organisation has with its supplying business, and we believe that properly applied support for cultural organisations will help to develop really fantastic relationships with customers. “So they are the three reasons to invest in the cultural sector: corporate and social responsibility, staff motivation and

INSPIRED THINKING

commitment, and customer reward and commitment. “From what I’ve said, you would think that all businesses wake up in the morning and say ‘Who can we support today?’, but, of course, they don’t. And the reason is usually because they are unaware of the opportunities that are out there. “So, Kathelene’s role is to engage with the business community and talk to them about what they’re trying to do, understand what they could do and why they should do it. The focus is then on where that business has challenges and opportunities, and to develop a strategy that will help them achieve their goals, whilst at the same time supporting the cultural environment, which, of course, is what Oxford Inspires is here to do. So our role is to broadcast the benefits; what engagement with cultural organisations can achieve, to rattle doors, and make sure that we do get our message heard. “The whole process is challenging, as well as time and resource consuming. Kathelene has done a great job, but one person can only do so much. Sometimes it’s quite smart to use the power of all of our corporate members which means we could have greater advocacy and then be a greater magnet for support. And so we’re starting to talk to a couple of our corporate members, and they will talk to others about how we could develop our corporate membership into a more collaborative and dynamic community. “We want to create an organisation, not a bureaucracy—that’s not a smart thing to do today!-but a forum where like-minded people can come together to discuss how to achieve better value from their cultural support, and how they can attract other supporters. Having a common purpose seems to make sense, rather than just being another business organisation. A common commitment to the county, its cultural life, and hopefully the recognition that the work that Oxford Inspires does is helpful. “So, we hope that this new initiative will create an active, energised organisation, supported by but also supporting Oxford Inspires, with the goal of reaching more widely into the business community and the county–and beyond.” Photography: www.studio-8.co.uk

For more information about how you can support your local cultural organisations and put something back into the community, contact Kathelene Weiss via the contact details at the back of B4.

www.b4-business.com

Contact details on page 102

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B4 LEGAL

OUTPLACEMENT

Katie Avis-Riordan talks to Richard White of local solicitors Withy King about his firm’s outplacement service, a means by which organisations can help redundant employees to find a new job. What exactly is Outplacement?

Is it suitable for everyone?

difficult circumstances - to help people going forward.

programme which

For outplacement to be effective, it needs to be

In many companies, some of the people made

enables people to review their current situation with

flexible, and one size certainly does not ‘fit all’. It is very

redundant could be relatives or close friends of

an outsider who understands the strong feelings losing

important that programmes are designed with the

surviving employees. The combination of practical

a job creates. In particular it provides a range of

participants in mind. In the past, employers sometimes

assistance and the provision of personal support to

techniques which will:

felt that outplacement could only be effective if

leavers says a lot about what kind of employer you are.

“Outplacement is a structured

delivered on a one to one basis. But with advances in help people to identify and decide what they want to

technology, and the rise in popularity of people

How do you get the most out of outplacement?

do next. This may be finding a new job, changing

networking on social websites, many people will thrive

Make sure that the provider does not have a 'sheep

career, taking up training, doing voluntary work or

when working in small groups where they can ‘buddy

dip' approach. A coaching approach is much more

something else that they were not aware of.

up’ with colleagues, test out their ideas, get feedback

likely to enable participants to make a positive impact

and develop a support network. Many jobs are never

on a potential new employer, by the content and style

give practical advice to maximise the opportunities to

advertised, and building a list of people who can help

of a CV, by the quality of responses in an interview,

achieve the goals identified. This includes writing a cv,

through networking, is very important.

and by using smart techniques to get in front of the employer ahead of the competition. Be open to

completing a psychometric test. The cv and covering

Won't employers find it too expensive?

outplacement which offers leavers the opportunity to

letter are key marketing tools and our programme

By tailoring outplacement programmes to the needs

work collaboratively in groups, to practice their new

provides the information and feedback to enable

of participants, by taking advantage of technology for

learned skills and support each other.

participants to really do themselves justice

on line support , and by taking a coaching approach, programmes can be very cost effective.

knock, even when it is obvious that the redundancy

Surely employers should be focusing on the people

was no fault of the individual concerned. People often

who stay with the organisation, not with those that

do not recognise the value of their skills, especially if

have left?

they have worked for the same employer for many

Providing outplacement sends out a signal to other

years.

employees that the organisation is doing its best – in

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To find out more about Outplacement contact Richard White at Withy King as per the contact

boost self confidence - which often will have taken a

details at the back of B4.

Contact details on page 102

Photography: www.studio-8.co.uk

interview practice, using on-line recruitment sites or

CONFERENCE CENTRE OXFORD

Over the past three issues of B4, we have introduced you to Conference Centre Oxford, the new and exciting conference venue in the centre of Oxford. We have introduced you to Roger and Fafar Watts, focused on the high tech spec of the venue and now look at how it all came together. Richard Rosser meets with Roger and Fafar to see how Conference Centre Oxford represents the culmination of efforts of one team, combining the first class in house team spearheaded by Roger and Fafar, together with their trusted team of sub-contractors. Over the next few pages, we will find out from Roger and Fafar more about how Conference Centre came to fruition, about the in house team running the new venture and also spotlight the sub-contractors helping bring the whole project together.

As regards Roger’s elements of this project he engaged contractors he had grown to trust and rely upon during the development of their sister business, Apartments in Oxford; the provider of short term serviced apartment accommodation adjacent to the new conference centre; as Roger explains.

With the enormity of the project before them, I imagined that Roger and Fafar were most probably perplexed from the outset as to what to do first. But I was wrong to doubt this couple; they quietly put together a team capable of turning their vision into reality. The project has been under control from day one and was achieved using their complimentary skills. Roger taking on the building, technical installations, planning and legal considerations and the financial elements of the project and Fafar creating an in-house team, controlling design and choosing the furniture, not to mention taking the lead in marketing and running the new centre.

“We used Paul Snell’s Midland Building Services as our primary contractor; we have known them and trusted their expertise for more than twelve years. They have worked for us on other projects, and we have always found them to be professional and more than capable of delivering a quality product on time and on budget.

“Next we looked at a variety of sub contractors, some of whom came on recommendation from Midland, others I had to source directly, as they were outside the scope of Midland’s remit. Jeremy Denton’s Haysham Electrical Contractors came on the recommendation of Midland, and have proved to be excellent. We had

used Oxford Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (ORAC) Ltd in our apartments business, and they too, had previously worked with Midland and Haysham. The foundation of the building team was laid. “Other contractors included Steve Coles of CVP, who installed the audio visual equipment for the large ground floor function rooms and Andy Fegan’s Image Audio Visual Solutions, who have installed the meeting room screens, projectors and video conferencing and digital signage systems In terms of telecommunications, we had used Nigel Pursell of Orangestripe in the Apartments, and he has upgraded the system to enable the conference rooms to become integral to the existing network. Richard Mead of CMR-Intech has looked after all the computing needs of all of our business for more than ten years and has installed new systems throughout the Conference Centre to meet the needs of a modern meeting and event venue.”

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B4 CONFERENCE

AHEAD OF THE GAME An excerpt from the MIA (Meeting Industry Association) recently published Report on the actual impact of the credit crunch on the conference and events market shows why Conference Centre Oxford are well placed succeed. “On technology there is an emerging debate with which all sectors identify and that is for the increasing request for technology to aid meetings. Video conferencing and web casting are both listed as a future requirement of corporate buyers, as they accept the inevitability of lower than usual delegate numbers, due to cost and environmental issues. It seems that venues are taking this on board with their future planning, with some noting that while delegate numbers will be reduced, it does still mean that conference rooms will be occupied. One venue commented, ‘We should be looking at new ways for people to have conferences. Look for instance at technology and video conferencing which will assist with budget controls and ensure that meetings will still happen.’”

On pages 56 and 57 you can see who Roger and Fafar were able to call upon to help them through this massive undertaking, with full contact details on each and a brief testimonial on each. With the building and equipment project underway, Fafar’s particular forte was now called into use. Creating a building with cutting edge technology is one thing, recruiting the right people to work as an operational team is something else and required Fafar’s expertise. Overleaf (pages 54 and 55), you can read more details about the team put together by Fafar. You would be hard pushed not to have noticed that CCO is open for business, despite the fact that there is still ongoing work to the ground floor to be completed, including the smart new entrance. The incredibly long new signage on the Park End Street side of the building stands proud above the entrance and conference offices, where six plasma screens give passers by a taster of what lies within. A further eight plasma screens adorn the conference centre’s interior walls, lending themselves to company personalisation to give visiting companies strong brand presence. Fafar is keen to stress CCO ‘s green credentials, and that keen attention has been paid to CCO’s

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environmental responsibilities in all phases of the design and construction, “Our approach to being green includes our video-conferencing service, as this cuts down on travel miles, also our lighting control systems, and our heating which is as ‘green’ as it could possibly be. “We are all now looking forward to the opening on 4th June, which has been professionally organised with the expert assistance of our PR companies, Black Chilli and Bottle PR.” But let’s not lose site of the significance of this project. This is a brand spanking new, first class, state of the art conference facility, bang smack in the middle of Oxford. It’s what Oxford has been crying out for, and it is launching in a period of uncertainty, with newspapers filled with job losses, horrendous company results and confidence at an all time low. But, here in Oxford, what Conference Centre Oxford is doing is firmly bucking the trend, and that’s credit to the whole team, contractors and operational staff working together as an entity. We will read overleaf about the loyal team and sub-contractors who have been on board to help bring this project to fruition.

The closing comments are left for Roger to underline just what has been achieved, “We find ourselves in the same position as everyone else, but this was a project in planning for a number of years, and it is just unfortunate that the world around us is experiencing financial difficulties. However, we are creating new jobs and new business and the response that we have had both in terms of enquiries and actual business is extremely pleasing, given that we are operating in a harsh economic climate. “We feel that our success to date is down to the fact that we have designed a conference centre as a bespoke conference centre to meet the requirements of our prospective clients. We have looked at what else is available, not just locally, and learned what we need to offer to win business. We have listened to what delegates expect, what they demand and what they would like. We are confident that Conference Centre Oxford will compliment the conferencing facilities available in Oxford, and will meet the needs of clients looking that little bit extra for their events and conferences. Our contractors and our staff, both existing and new, are setting new standards for our business and we thank them for what they have achieved; one team, one success”.

Contact details on page 102

THE IN HOUSE TEAM Building on the foundations of a great team supporting the existing Apartments in Oxford, Conference Centre Oxford will draw on the expertise of this well-knit team to provide first class customer service to the new wave of customers preparing to swoop on this excellent new facility. B4 chat with each head of department to learn more about the strengths, responsibilities and hopes for the future of Conference Centre Oxford.

As General Manager of Apartments in Oxford, Fafar’s experience of project management, operations, dealing with HR, interior design and marketing was essential to progress the next phase of the project.

do. I think Oxford itself has a big pull, but as a venue, we can put on an excellent event with the expertise within our staff and with the facilities. I am really excited by the challenge.“

The operational structure was established by Roger and needed to reflect the services and potential that the new Conference Centre could offer, as at the same time Fafar had to manage the business of change that inevitably occurs during such a process. Creating reporting and control systems to ensure that what was offered to the customer could be achieved with the best customer service was crucial. It was also vital to put together a team which complemented the staff of the existing business,.

PAMELA PARKER

Fafar set the process in motion by employing key managers to the new operations team. These included Richie Stubbs, Audio Visual manager from Waterfront in Belfast; Sophie Bennet, Food and Beverage Manager from the Ashmoleam, and Sharon Cemm, Events and Conferencing. These managers, in turn, introduced new staff with whom they had previously worked and were happy to recommend.

FAFAR WATTS General Manager & Director of Administration “My prime role will be to ensure that the day to day operation in all aspects and in every department is carried out efficiently, offering the best customer service to our clients’ with the state of the art facilities offered at our venue and particularly a strong and friendly team to carry out the conference delegates’ requirements. “We are capable of dealing with any spec that our clients may throw at us. The building is modern, contemporary and workable and it has been designed to be flexible to the requirements of future events. Companies can brand a location with the venue, entirely, even down to the colour of the walls – once the venue is 100% up and running, we know customers are going to be blown away by what we can

Sales Manager “I joined Apartments in Oxford, the sister company, nine years ago, in April 2000. I was really determined that Apartments in Oxford should provide the best accommodation in the city centre of Oxford. After all, we are one of the leading heritage cities in the UK. We are also a historic city, but by the same token we are a city which leads in science and technology. So that brings me on to CCO. With the start up of a brand new venue, we have to be the figurehead of what a conference centre can provide. I am very happy to say that I think we have achieved that. “I think the future bodes well for the conference venue and our existing clients for Apartments in Oxford will be delighted to make full use of the new facilities. They have confidence in our existing product, the apartments, and this will help us attract them to the conference side of the business. We are going to be the only standalone, fully fitted out, high-tech conference venue, which is available every day of the week, all year round in the city centre. During 2009, we are in a downturn, but, being sensible about it, this is why our management have decided to go strictly high-tech, so that clients don’t have to go abroad. By offering video conferencing, our clients can stay in the UK and it ties in well with our green credentials. We can provide everything they need in their home city.”

SHARON CEMM

Conference Organiser “Previously to this position I have been project manager for many events, whether it is a conference, an event taking delegates to venues, international or in the UK. “My prime expertise is following an event, taking the brief, speaking to the conference organiser and taking the concept all the way to the end of the project,

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B4 CONFERENCE

“Conference Centre Oxford has all the capabilities necessary to meet conference organizers’ and corporates’ requirements facilitating a successful conference, meeting and training session or to hold memorable events and functions.”

MARK ILES

Reservations Manager “I am the Reservations Manager and I have been working for Apartments in Oxford for five years. I will be developing my role within the Conference Centre. When the meeting rooms are reserved, I will be overseeing that aspect of the operation, and when the function rooms are open in Spring 2009, I will continue to oversee that operation in conjunction with the Apartments. Hopefully, and as I expect, we will be very busy. It will be a good experience for myself – I am looking forward to it immensely. It has been a good learning experience just speaking to the guests; that has been incredibly valuable. Because of the clientele for Apartments in Oxford, we do have a base of academic and corporate guests, and I think this will stand us in good stead when it comes to winning new business for the Conference Centre.”

RICHIE STUBBS

AVIT Manager “I have been involved with the AV industry for the last fifteen to twenty years. I recently moved back to England from Northern Ireland. I am responsible for all of the technical aspects of the centre. For me, it has been an exciting new adventure, and I have gained an in-depth knowledge of the building. We have future-proofed the facility as much as we can by pre-cabling for technological developments, thus leaving us well placed to maintain our position at the forefront of all conference venues in Oxford.”

SOPHIE BENNETT

Food and Beverages Manager “I was, previous to this role, the Restaurant and Events Manager at the Ashmoleon

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Museum for three years; prior to that I have worked in pubs, contract caterers and restaurants. I will deal with the booker via the sales team and then I will deal with the client on the day directly. We have already had a few menu enquiries and we are hoping to do canopy receptions, buffets, receptions, wedding parties, corporate dinners, anything and everything. We are also able to cope with different types of cuisine. We do have set menu,s but we are always willing to tailor to suit the needs of the client. We are hoping to use home made fresh produce, supporting some of our home suppliers such as The Oxford Wine Company, Hook Norton Brewery in Banbury, Brightwell Vineyard and Aldens Butchers, all of which are local to us. We have a detailed events pack and extensive wine list, so we would be pleased to assist with any enquiries.”

ALISON RINGROSE

Accounts Manager "A career in the diplomatic service, experience in the Oxford Colleges followed by 5 years with the international logistics company DHL has provided me with the background and credibility to manage the Finance Department of Conference Centre Oxford. My remit is to provide our customers with the highest standard of service combined with value for money."

ELA MYC

Head of Housekeeping “I am originally from Poland where I taught children with special needs. When I arrived, this was all new to me, but Mrs Watts is a fantastic teacher, and in one and a half years she has made me head of housekeeping. We look after all aspects of cleaning and maintenance for the Apartments, and, in the future, we are going to employ more housekeeping staff as the level of business for the conferences increases. If you have a good team, like we do, then everything is much easier. What I like about the job is that every day I meet new people, both in the Apartments and in the Conference Centre, people from all over the world. It is an incredibly exciting time for all of us and we are all looking forward to the conference centre being fully open.”

Contact details on page 102

Photography: www.studio-8.co.uk

liaising with all of the delegates and the various different departments.

CONTRACTOR TEAM MIDLAND BUILDING SERVICES

IMAGE AV

MAINLAND CATERING

Roger Watts on Midland Building Services, Andy Taylor (Site manager), Daniel Haynes (construction co-ordinator). “Kept the wheels turning throughout the building project in superb fashion, well done.”

Roger Watts on Image AV Andy Fegan, Image “Innovative and delivering a high quality system.”

Roger Watts on Andy Howarth, Mainland Catering. “Expertise in kitchen design and supplies, highly recommended.”

Image AV on Conference Centre Oxford. “Image are pleased to have been selected as Conference Centre Oxford's preferred supplier and installer of integrated audio-visual systems and wish Roger and his staff every future success.”

Mainland Catering on Conference Centre Oxford. “MCE Ltd suppliers and manufacturers of commercialcatering equipment, would like to wish Roger and the team all the very best with their new conference facilities and congratulate them on delivering an outstanding development.”

Paul Snell and Melvyn Riley. “Their support both operational and strategically has been essential to the success of this project.” Midland Building on Conference Centre Oxford. “Midland Building Services are honoured to have been chosen as the ‘principal contractor’ for this exciting new development. We would like to wish all at Conference Centre Oxford the very best for a successful future.”

Image Audio Visual Solutions, 455 Maxwell Avenue, Harwell Science & Innovation Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire, OX11 0QT. T: 01235 865500 E: sales@image-av.co.uk W: www.image-av.co.uk

Photography: www.studio-8.co.uk

Midland Building Services 8 Oxford Street, Woodstock, Oxon OX20 1TR T: 01993 813172 E: info@midroof.co.uk F: 01993 813418

Supply and Manufacture of Commercial Catering Equipment. Mainland Catering Equipment Limited, Unit 1a Fountain Mill, Church Street, Rakefoot, Haslingden, Rossendale, Lancashire BB4 5RE T: 01706 244810 F: 01706 244811 E: sales@mainlandcatering.co.uk W: www.mainlandcatering.co.uk

ORAC

HAYSHAM ELECTRICAL

Roger Watts on ORAC, Ian Law. “Efficient organisation, helping us to be as green as possible, thank you.”

Roger Watts on Jeremy Denton (MD), Haysham Electrical. “A first class electrical contractor who we will certainly use again.”

ORAC on Conference Centre Oxford. “We are delighted to have installed highly efficient Mitsubishi electric heat recovery air conditioning and ventilation systems to Conference Centre Oxford and wish them all good wishes in their new venture.”

Haysham Limited (Electrical Contractors) on Conference Centre Oxford. “Haysham Ltd form part of the design team and are the Electrical Contractors. We are proud to be part of this most prestigious project, wishing it great success for the future.”

79-81 Magdalen Road, Oxford OX4 1RF T: 01865 424424 W: www.oracoxford.co.uk

Unit 7, Glenmore Business Centre, Range Road, Windrush Park, Witney, Oxon, OX29 0AA T: 01993 774888 F: 01993 778666 E: info@haysham.co.uk

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B4 WORKING TOGETHER “Without the help of our excellent team of sub-contractors below we wouldn’t have been able to contemplate such a complicated and time critical project. Everyone below has helped us launch a first class venue which they should all be proud of. My sincere thanks goes out to each and every one of them.” Roger Watts (Director, Conference Centre Oxford)

ORANGE STRIPE

BLINK

BAQUS SWORN KING

Roger Watts on Nigel Pursall, (MD) Orange Stripe. “High quality systems from a high quality supplier.”

Roger Watts on Richard Rosser, (MD), Blink Design and Print. “We have worked with Blink in a marketing, design and print capacity for nearly ten years and can strongly recommend them for their continued support and efforts. Creative Director Keith Simpson has been incredibly supportive throughout the design and print phases and has created a fantastic logo for us. Thank you very much.”

Roger Watts on James Clark, (Project Surveyor), Baqus Sworn King. “Kept a tight control on budget and expenditure in an extremely professional manner.”

Orange Stripe on Conference Centre Oxford. “Through our retained partnership with the Apartments In Oxford for provision of telephony services, Orange Stripe is delighted to be involved with the prestigious CCO project. We wish Roger and the team every success with the new conference centre.” Orange Stripe Telecommunications, Unit 23 116 Commercial Road, Swindon, SN1 5BD T: 0845 241 7772 E: nigel.pursall@orangestripe.co.uk W: www.orangestripe.co.uk

Blink Design on Conference Centre Oxford. “Having established an excellent working relationship with Roger and Fafar Watts through Apartments in Oxford, we were delighted to be asked to help design the identity and supporting website and promotional literature for this superb new conference facility. Our best wishes for a successful future go to all associated with Conference Centre Oxford.”

Baqus Sworn King on Conference Centre Oxford. “Baqus Sworn King are pleased to have been quantity surveyors for this prestigious development and would like to wish Roger the very best of luck with Conference Centre Oxford.” Baqus Sworn King, 31 West Way, Botley, Oxford, OX2 0JE T: 01865 241159 E: qs@skp.co.uk

The Firs, Headington Hill, Oxford OX3 0BT T: 01865 742211 E: studio@on-the-blink.com

C.V.P.

CMR INTECH

HOOK NORTON BREWERY

Roger Watts on Steve Coles, C.V.P. (Oxford) Ltd. “Great expertise has been harnessed to make Conference Centre Oxford a very special place.”

Roger Watts on Richard Mead, CMR Intech. “Excellent customer service and expertise we know we can rely upon.”

Roger Watts on Hook Norton Brewery, James Clarke (MD). “We had no hesitation using such an established local name as Hook Norton.”

C.V.P. (Oxford) Ltd. on Conference Centre Oxford. “C.V.P. (Oxford) Ltd. are proud to be involved with Cantay Group Limited in the development of Oxford’s number one conferencing solution.” C.V.P. (Oxford) Ltd. Unit 16, Tower Industrial Estate, Berinsfield, Oxon. OX10 7LN T: 08700 331810 F: 08700 331811

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CmR Intech on Conference Centre Oxford. “CmR Intech would like to say a big thank you for inviting us to implement the IT systems and infrastructure on this exciting new project. We wish Conference Centre Oxford every future success!” CmR Intech Ltd, Business IT Solutions, Park Farm Technology Centre, Kirtlington, Oxon, OX5 3JQ T: 01869 352790 F: 01869 351697 E: info@cmr-intech.co.uk W: www.cmr-intech.co.uk

Hook Norton Brewery on Conference Centre Oxford. “The management and staff of Hook Norton Brewery would like to extend their good wishes to Roger Watts and his team at Conference Centre Oxford in the launch of this exciting new conferencing facility for Oxfordshire.” Hook Norton Brewery, Hook Norton, Oxon OX15 5NY. T: 01608 737210 W: www.hooky.co.uk

LACY’S FASHIONING SUCCESS Launched twenty four years ago by Sue Rosser, just prior to the heady eighties, Lacys has become a fixture of Little Clarendon Street in Oxford, standing the test of time and making sure the well heeled and fashion conscious ladies of Oxford always have a ready supply of the latest fashion on their doorstep. Katie Avis-Riordan meets Sue Rosser to find out the secret of her success. “I remember lovely, mature academic ladies arriving on their bicycles which they propped against our window, inquisitive to find out what Lacy’s was all about,” Sue tells me, “ With Laura Ashley only two doors away selling rose print tea dresses, life in Jericho was of a much more gentle pace than the bustle we associate it with today. “I can tell you our wacky yellow and fuschia pink suede shoes from Italy caused quite a stir. Gradually,

however, word got around and Lacy’s became the place to be seen in – and to buy the latest creations from Europe.” Twenty-four years later, and with a regular and loyal customer base, Lacy’s is still very much in the forefront of designer shopping in Oxford. “I have recently been joined by my daughter, Debbie, who has been working for me on and off whilst Lacy’s has been trading, but with three young children there have been natural breaks,” comments Sue, “Debbie wants to make improvements to the business where we both feel they are necessary. We have never had a web-site, but Blink (see page 64) are launching this for us, which will be a great asset. The new website provides us with the opportunity to capitalise on an untapped market, and although the web is a massively competitive market, we believe our reputation and

experience will help give us a presence and boost sales.” See: www.lacysoxford.co.uk The economic climate is an obvious cause for concern to any business, but Sue is steadfast in her belief that experience will tell, “We are trying our hardest, but we would be foolish to assume that we won’t be affected. We have to be that little bit more accommodating and flexible. A lot of business women don’t have the time to shop, more so than ever. So we now offer personal shopping. We will open after hours to suit you, by appointment only, just like having your own personal shopper really, and as the days get warmer, we will open on Sundays.” Lacys’ stock lines are certainly impressive, as Sue elaborates, “We stock Classical Joseph and Crea Concept, both of which suit all ages. Linens from Farhi and knits from Karen Cole, quirky pieces from Hoss

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Photography: www.studio-8.co.uk

B4 FEATURE

Intropia and La Fee Maraboutee are popular. We also have our collectable collection from Italy, Save The Queen. We always add other labels as we go through the season, to intersperse with our regular suppliers, and this lends itself to a perfect recipe for a bright collection of beautiful clothes.” Sue isn’t reliant on the immediate Oxfordshire area for her custom, with some lines attracting customers from further afield, “Certainly the Save The Queen label has a cult following and so this attracts customers from other areas, as it is quite difficult to find. Visitors from London pop in whilst they are staying here, and Malmaison lists us as their chosen boutique, so this creates a lot of interest from the guests staying in what was once the old Oxford prison.” Style personifies Lacys, both in terms of its collection, its service and its reputation, but how does Sue sum

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up Lacys clothes style? “If I am honest, we stock the more relaxed styles that you can wear every day. Students will buy the younger styles from La Fee Maraboutee and Hoss Intropia and our regulars might team up a Karen Cole top knitted from organic wool from New Zealand with a pair of Joseph trousers. There is a myriad of different ways you can match our clothes together – a crucial part of the decision making process when we buy the stock, months before it actually goes on sale, so we are ready with our suggestions and solutions!

that is fine by us, or if you want some expert advice, that is what we are about. Or book an appointment to see us privately when the focus will be on you, without interruption. And we WILL make it an enjoyable experience.” Experience, great quality products and first class customer service sums up Lacys. It’s no surprise Sue has been serving Oxfordshire so well for over twenty years, and with daughter Debbie in place to continue the family tradition, give them a call and pop in for a no obligation consultation on 01865 552094.

“We are also acutely aware that coming into a small shop for the first time can be intimidating. Hopefully we always make customers welcome, even if we are already serving someone else. However, if you just want to meander through the rails,

B4 SPECIAL OFFER B4 readers can take advantage of £100 Lacys gift vouchers available for just £50 at www.inoxford.com.

Contact details on page 102

news Businesses to benefit from new telecommunications technology with the launch of UK ENUM We were recently pleased to announce the launch of ENUM, a new registry service that combines telephone numbers and the Domain Name System (DNS) to simplify the way VoIP calls (telephone calls made over the Internet) work. Many of us have already experienced the benefits of using Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) telephony within our own networks. For those who haven’t, the main advantage is that calls within the same VoIP network are free. However, VoIP calls across different networks generally use the telephone network and this costs money. ENUM enables these calls across networks to be made for free too. What is ENUM? ENUM is the technology that enables more VoIP calls across different networks to be connected directly over the Internet, for no charge, rather than via the traditional PTSN network. As a result, businesses and their customers and suppliers could soon be benefiting from cheaper or even free telephone calls.

enables companies to build better relationships with suppliers and customers in a more cost effective manner.

How does a company register for ENUM? ENUM registrations are now available – here’s how the process works:

For example, if a large organisation and its suppliers all used ENUM, all calls between then would be free every time. Equally, smaller organisations, such as those in customer service environments, could set up an ENUM number and allow their customers to call them for free without incurring any costs for receiving the calls themselves.

1. Visit Nominet’s web site for a list of available ENUM registrars: www.nominet.org.uk/enum/businesses/enumregistrars/ 2. Choose the registrar that best suits your business requirements 3. Register your chosen number (or bank of numbers) with the registrar 4. The registrar will then validate your number (typically via a third party agency) and provide you with an ENUM registration 5. The final step is that you will need to meet certain technical specifications for the installation of ENUM – your registrar will be able to help with this.

In addition to the cost savings, ENUM has the potential to offer a range of other value-added features to corporate communications, such as a ‘follow me’ type function that will allow an individual to choose how (voice, fax, mobile, email, text-messaging, location-based services and web sites) and when they would like to be contacted throughout the day. For example, users could direct everything to their mobile device between 9am and 5pm and then re-direct all communications to email after 5pm.

How does it work? The core principle of ENUM is to translate a telephone number into a domain name. This allows users to continue to use the existing phone number formats they know, whilst allowing the device to route the call using a DNS lookup. Using the DNS makes ENUM a quick, stable and cheap link between telecommunications systems and the Internet.

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What are the benefits of ENUM for UK businesses? Making cost savings and improving operational efficiency is a top priority for most organisations in the current economic climate, so ENUM has come just at the right time. It cuts telecommunications costs and

Making a positive impact in the community One of our company’s values is “We are committed to making a positive impact on the community we live in”.

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whilst another helped Helen & Douglas House pack hundreds of Santa Suits before Christmas.

We do this in a variety of ways, for example, through a charity group that organises events to raise money (which the company matches) for our nominated charity of the year, and by offering staff a ‘payroll giving’ scheme so they can support the charity of their choice.

In order to encourage more people to get involved with local initiatives we recently launched an employee volunteering policy that enables staff to take one paid day for community volunteering each financial year. Last month two people used their volunteering day to help our nominated charity BOB (Berks Oxon Bucks Air Ambulance) with a local fundraising challenge.

We also encourage our people to ‘give something back’ by facilitating team building activities with local school activities and community projects. For example, one of our customer service teams gave up an evening to help with a project for Oxford Urban Wildlife Group,

By supporting the local community with time and skills, our people can develop and grow as individuals, whilst at the same time giving something back.

Contact details on page 102

Cotswold Wildlife Park was first opened in 1970 by Reggie’s father, John, and the house in which I meet Reggie, was the house in which his father was born. John moved out of the house in 1950 when he married Reggie’s mother, and the house was let out for the local area health authority. The house rapidly fell into decay and, by 1969, when it came back to the family, John Heyworth had to think how he could make the house financially viable, or pull it down. “As you can imagine, we were very attached to the house,” comments Reggie, “it is Grade II listed, but it wasn’t a sufficiently important house to give to the nation or hope that someone would come along and rescue it, so he had to think of a commercial solution. This was just the time when other zoos and safari parks were starting up around the country as everybody was realising that the great British public had their first car in the 1960’s and were able to drive out to the countryside for days out. “My father had always been mad about animals. We had a farm around here anyway and he had always been a big livestock man - at school he would keep everything from canaries to tortoises to snakes – absolutely anything, a mini Wildlife Park in his desk! It

and wanted to step back from running the Park on a day-to-day basis, and as I was always regarded as the natural successor (despite having three older sisters), I took over. It is, I have to say, my ‘dream job’.” And ever since Reggie has continued where his father left off. I remember visiting the Park when I was eight, and it hasn’t changed much. It has resisted all temptation to introduce a hotel, or a theme park, or high maintenance animals just to drive numbers up. Business has been steady, and that’s the way Reggie likes it. “It’s really just a question of trying to improve on what we’ve already got. My father and I agreed that it would always be a totally animal-centric place, focusing on the importance of retaining good staff - a lot of the best ideas come from our dedicated staff. We have added quite a lot to the animal collection since I have been here without taking up a lot of extra space. We’re just trying to get several more interesting animals and several more interesting lemur species – like the ghost lemur or ‘sifaka’ as it’s also known. We have added sloths and wolves, and also considerably to the bird collection.” The sloths are quite magical, as my daughter Abi will testify during a recent school trip when one meandered gracefully over our heads – not

as it would be so easy for places like the Park to lose their soul. “I am conscious that the Park should never become terribly didactic and preachy, and ladle on all the stuff about conservation and make you feel guilty that you’re not saving the world, and get all syrupy about things that are dying out and all the rest of it. Or the Park could go the other way and just become a cash cow and milk the customer – vending machines everywhere, little rides that you pay another pound for everywhere, and capitalise on the ‘pester power’ of kids and the indulgence of parents. “When all is said and done, when you have such a wonderful product as we do, with beautiful trees, lawns, and lovely animals - and don’t forget the train then hopefully you don’t constantly need to reinvent yourself too much. But we have got to keep it fresh, keep it looking nice. So there are a lot of plans, lots of things I want to do, lots of animals I would like to get. “We are looking into getting some giraffes at the moment and I like some of the wackier animals, like porcupines. I also think people love engagement with the staff, and with keepers, so I’d like to do more informal keeper engagement with the public – do talks

“It’s really just a question of trying to improve on what we’ve already got.” was inevitable that my father’s love of animals would rub off on me.

the fastest animal in the world by any stretch of the imagination, but incredible to watch.

“I was about seven when the Park opened, and it really opened on a ‘wing and a prayer’. He borrowed £40,000 - a lot of money in those days - to set it up and managed to get people to work more or less for free until he had the cashflow from visitors to be able to pay them.

“We are always making improvements to the enclosures, as the old ones become tatty. We have a new walk-through lemur exhibit at the bottom of the walled garden and we are also building a new enclosure for some wolverines, a cross between a wolf and a bear – they’re pretty cool. So it’s mostly tweaking really.

“I distinctly remember opening on Good Friday in 1970. We opened with just the walled garden, which is to this day the footprint of the walled garden as my father sketched it out all those years ago. The park then had penguins, otters, a few monkeys, a playground and the lake area where the flamingos are – some of the flamingos are the only animals I can think of that were here when the park opened in 1970. “The park gradually expanded to bring in the rhinos in 1972, and they went in our big paddock area with the zebras. Tigers came in about 1980, but sadly died in 1996 to be replaced by Asiatic lions, along with leopards around the same time. And this is how the park has evolved since 1970 – adding animals and more space as we needed it. Substantially, the footprint of the place is now as it was by about 1982.” Reggie reminisces about school holidays – what a great place to spend your childhood – and selling guide books and picking up litter. He then went on to University and spent seven years in the City, which, by his own admission, wasn’t him. In 1990, he went out to Tanzania, where he became a safari guide, “Then I got a job for the Tanzanian government working in black rhino conservation, between 1992 and 1995. “When I came back in 1995, my father was seventy

“Our core audience – which is mostly local – seem to like the Park, and they come back again and again. We’re not too expensive – we’re half the price of theme parks - and we’re a lot cheaper than a lot of the other zoos in striking distance of Oxfordshire. I hope that we continue to retain the confidence of our local visiting public, and that they continue to feel that it’s their place and have a slight sense of ownership of the Park. “What people love about this place is something ‘money can’t buy’ in some ways – the feeling of space, the beauty of trees, the beauty of the grounds, the fact that it’s so clean, the fact that you’re surrounded by other people having a nice time, and the animals are always just wonderful to look at. All of these elements are timeless.” You won’t get a welcome cheesy grin at the Park, just an honest smile and a ‘hello, how are you?’ Nothing is forced, nothing is drilled, it is all so natural and effortless. There is no pretence, a welcome break from the commercial world we live in today, which brings us to our article heading, as Reggie explains, “There’s a good expression, and it sums up what my father and I try and do, ‘Don’t do what’s new, do what’s never old’. I think of that saying every day and remind myself of it

and feeding times, things like that. There’s a big education programme here and we now have an education officer on board and we are getting a lot more schools visiting as a result. “And educating children and adults is what we are all about, as for many people it’s just impossible to afford to do a big safari, and the closest they’ll get to seeing magnificent animals, like lions and rhinos, is in a zoo or a wildlife park. In that sense, I think that what wildlife parks stand for is really important in making people understand how magnificent these animals are, how beautiful nature is, and how important it is to just be aware of our place in nature and that we are responsible. “We once carried out a survey, and asked ‘What sort of things would you say about Cotswold Wildlife Park to recommend it to your friends?’, and it was amazing how many people said ‘Space and safety’. You realise that a lot of people don’t have that in their lives. A lot of people live quite pressurised lives; kids are constantly being examined, Dad is probably working harder than ever, Mum is running the house and maybe holding a part-time job as well, and having quality time together in natural surroundings is a rarity. We want our visitors to have a day in a beautiful place where you don’t have to worry too much and you can just lie on the lawn or take your shoes off and feel the grass under your feet. It’s a place where you can easily switch off, just be with family, be with nature for a few hours, and it can do you a power of good.” With thanks to Reggie Heyworth for his valuable time.

Contact details on page 102

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B4 SPOTLIGHT

IT NEVER

GROWS OLD

Richard Rosser has the great pleasure of meeting Reggie Heyworth, who now runs Cotswold Wildlife Park, an institution in Oxfordshire days out and explains that the secret of the Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s success is to maintain the status quo.

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BLINK

DESIGN, PRINT AND MARKETING

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B4 MARKETING

Blink is a full design agency, offering a wide range of services from corporate identity and logo design, through to print management for corporate collateral, web design and maintenance and data capture and marketing. In addition, clients can benefit from the copywriting skills which are used throughout B4 Magazine and in client corporate brochures. Ally your business to Blink’s sister company, The In Oxford Group, and prospective customers can not only tap into a well resourced design and print studio, with excellent experience – see team profiles – but customers can also benefit from the excellent network of businesses connected to Blink, In Oxford and B4. For example, Conference Centre Oxford (CCO) has recently launched in central Oxford. The name was developed by Blink, along with the logo, website, promotional posters, conference brochures and standard stationery, including letterheads and business cards. The design and print consultancy was provided alongside B4 articles documenting the development of CCO, culminating in the article on pages 52 to 57. In depth knowledge of the business was gained through close liaison with Roger and Fafar Watts which assisted in the creation of the new identity and printed material. But it doesn’t stop there, with an intimate knowledge of the new conference business, Blink are able to informally promote facilities through their network of connections and contacts. And although Blink do not offer a PR service, the word of mouth promotion of CCO, albeit unquantifiable, can, in many ways, prove as invaluable as the quantifiable design and print service. By aligning your business with Blink, you tap into the strengths and brand presence of In Oxford Magazine, B4 Magazine and the other clients in this growing and impressive network of customers. Although the foundation of Blink’s customers are based in Oxfordshire, one key client is Brighton College, for whom Blink provide a full design and consultancy service, including advert design for Sussex’s leading magazines, the majority of Brighton’s printed literature and a full print management service. Brighton’s Development Director, David Gold, is certainly a huge admirer of the service provided by Blink. “Blink have been first class in all dealings we have had, in a relationship which has lasted well over five years. Schools are notoriously poorly prepared and difficult to deal with when it comes to publications, but Blink are always on hand to push through a project and pull out the stops to ensure we get what we want, when we want it. The turnaround for our advertisement design allows us to take advantage of significantly reduced advertising rates, and means that Blink not only provide the College with a first class service, but allow us to make cost savings. The design is excellent, and in an increasingly competitive local independent schools market, it is widely regarded that our printed publications are the best of the bunch. I couldn’t possibly give Blink a higher accolade, which they thoroughly deserve.” Closer to home, Blink have recently redesigned Oxford Castle’s website – see www.oxfordcastle.com – and have completed a new branding exercise for the new Castle Market – see page 42, comprising of posters, location banners, leaflets and a new Oxford Castle site map. The range of products and services is shown visually on the next page, and it has certainly enabled General Manager, Jean-Pierre Morrileau, to create an identity for the new market. “We have used Blink since day one when they produced the very first Oxford Castle booklet, which we presented to The Queen when she opened the site. Since then, Blink have designed and maintained our website, promotional literature, posters and a wide range of other services. We have always found Blink an attentive, creative and excellent value for money team. Never afraid to go the extra mile, we can rely 100% on their quality of service and delivery of product. They care and don’t want to let us down, and that gives us tremendous peace of mind. We most certainly benefit from the exposure afforded to us through In Oxford Magazine and B4, and the contact network that they provide can prove invaluable at times.” For a no obligation consultancy to see how Blink could help your business, contact Richard or Colin Rosser now and refresh your company image.

Contact details on page 102

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Together with son Richard, below, Colin provides access to an excellent network of contacts in Oxfordshire which facilitates business to business contact at all levels. Richard Rosser, Managing Director, and B4 Editor, Richard is responsible for maintaining client relations with Blink’s portfolio of customers, including Conference Centre Oxford, Apartments in Oxford, Brighton College, Oxford Castle and The Grape Press. As the key co-ordinator for Blink’s clients, Richard is often the one port of call Blink’s clients rely on to ensure projects are completed on time. Keith Simpson, Creative Director Keith has a BA in Fine Art and is a self-taught designer. Keith’s abilities range from basic advertisement design through to high quality corporate brochures and he has also become an accomplished web designer. Keith maintains the highly popular In Oxford Magazine web site which now receives in excess of 40,000 unique visitors per month and has also recently re-designed the new Oxford Castle website which he also maintains on a day-to-day basis. Keith’s real strength is evident with the design of the acclaimed B4 Business Magazine, and his attention to detail and demands for high production values ensure the integrity of the magazine is maintained at a very high level. Sue Edwardson, Office Manager Sue has developed into something of a print guru, furnishing herself with an excellent knowledge of print terminology and capabilities. The cornerstone of Blink’s print sourcing facility, Sue has developed excellent working relationships with a number of printers around the country. This knowledge enables Sue to identify the right print for the job and limits sourcing of quotes to the absolute minimum. Kimberly Manning, Designer Kim joined Blink in 2008, having recently completed her MA in Publishing with a focus on print and digital design at Oxford Brookes University. Kim has recently launched the new Conference Centre Oxford website, and will shortly be launching sites for Queens Lane Coffee House, Lacy’s and The Rose. Kim is also responsible for the production of In Oxford Magazine. She hails from Seattle, Washington.

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Blink Design, Print and Marketing, based in central Oxford, are spreading their wings. Until now, Blink have operated as a low key agency to customers of sister organisation, The In Oxford Group, publishers of In Oxford Magazine and B4 Business Magazine. However, with a growing portfolio of impressive and, more to the point, satisfied customers, Blink itself is undergoing the sort of facelift service it provides to its clients.

Colin Rosser, Chief Executive With invaluable experience in print and unparalleled connections in Oxford, Colin’s role as Chief Executive gives the business a crucial foundation and integrity, with a font of knowledge when it comes to print and design.

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B4 FEATURE

THIN ICING The recession might be taking its toll on national morale, but the cake decorating experts at The Cake Shop in Oxford's Covered Market are "riding out the storm" with some cautious planning ahead and dedication to customer satisfaction. Chris Baraniuk interviews business owner Sally Davis and asks why people are still splashing out on cakes in an atmosphere of doom and gloom.

"History has always shown that people will make the effort to celebrate, even in times of hardship," Sally says. She offers an example, "During the War, women would save up their raisin rations for the whole year just so they could make a proper Christmas cake. "In fact," Sally continues, "the recent snow which fell in Oxford had a more adverse effect on our sales than the recession seems to be having". Apparently, this caused a massive slump in 'passing trade' and, with few venturing into the market under heavy snowfall, sales were down by fifty percent. But Sally says the business's overall success in these difficult times has been down to some simple careful planning and sensible financial management, with attention to short-term goals and trusted sources of customers. "We've tried to be cautious and cut down on national advertising while focusing on the local market. We saw the credit crunch coming when there were early reports in the press. Sales themselves wouldn't have shown what was going to happen. But now we're in it, we'll just carry on and do what we do and ride out the storm. "It's just meant being more careful about some things.

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We have plans to open a third shop at some stage, but those have definitely been put on the back burner for now." The shop is, as usual, targeting national holidays and celebrations, "At the moment we're concentrating on Mothers' Day and we'll be keeping those cakes at the same price as last year to encourage sales." Luckily, Sally hasn't had to make any staff redundancies - a prospect which, she says, would "horrify" her - and the shop has taken more orders than ever this early in the year for their specialty, cakes in the shape of famous or local buildings. "Our reputation for creating cakes in the shape of buildings is growing. We're doing Brasenose College again, the Radcliffe Camera and some others. These cakes cost around £1,000 and no-one else makes them here. It's something I really love doing." In fact, there seems to have been a degree of polarisation in the pages of The Cake Shop's order book. Orders for luxury items like the building cakes have gone up, as have sales of their cheapest products, the so-called 'rush cakes' which only cost £20 or £30 and are iced-up with a personal message while the customer waits. Sally estimates the sales of these particular cakes have gone up by around 8%.

However, pre-ordered mid-range cakes haven't been as popular as previous years, so this split in customer spending patterns suggests a reaction to the economic climate where some customers at least are eager to spend as little as possible, and buy cakes spontaneously rather than pre-ordering. "The dynamics of what we're selling has changed," Sally comments, "but, overall, the business has been able to carry on as normal." Combine this with a lasting record of customer satisfaction and you have The Cake Shop's current situation pretty much summed up. Sally explains how her die-hard commitment to quality has built up a sense of loyalty with past customers, "Last week we delivered to someone in Surrey because they had lived in Oxford before and knew us and the quality of our products. They didn't want to compromise on that and so were happy to pay for the delivery to somewhere as far away as Surrey." And Sally remains confident that this represents what The Cake Shop can expect more of in the future. For some, at least then, coping with the credit crunch has almost been a piece of cake – sorry!

Contact details on page 102

Formerly a partner in national giant firm Hammonds, Howard joined the Darbys Insolvency Team early last year. He brought a wealth of experience in multi-national insolvency, as well as all aspects of UK insolvency issues. “I am absolutely passionate about what I do. For example, it took me five and a half hours to finish the London Marathon in April 2007. That day saw the hottest temperatures, which competitors have ever experienced in the London Marathon. However, I refused to give-up. When I commit to something, not only I am passionate about it, but I always try to retain my focus to ensure that I achieve my goals.” Howard Roberts is a believer in honesty, integrity and respect. He forges strong relationships with clients and colleagues, mutually founded upon these traits. To succeed in the world of insolvency, quality and speed of service are paramount. Equally, a keen commercial focus and the ability to reciprocate work are very important. With over fifteen years of commercial experience, both in the UK and the Cayman Islands, Howard has advised a wide range of institutional, corporate and individual clients on all aspects of both contentious and non-contentious insolvency and corporate recovery matters. His clients have included numerous firms of insolvency practitioners, asset-based lenders, banks, company directors and individuals.

in a vain-glorious way. As a proud Northerner, quality service and optimum results are important to him; sheer hard work comes as standard. The Darby’s team works closely with insolvency practitioners from a wide range of firms and deals with a broad range of corporate and personal insolvency matters. It also advises directors and other individuals who face insolvency (or the consequences of insolvency) in their business or personal life. Drawing on the expertise of other specialists within the firm when the need arises, the team will often work closely with the corporate, employment and commercial property legal departments within the firm. It also acts for Administrators, Liquidators and companies on a wide range of matters including business sales, plus restructuring and rescue packages. Nor is it uncommon for them to advise directors on financial restructuring. In such cases, they work closely with banks, secondary lenders, factoring companies and invoice discounters to find dynamic and innovative solutions to achieve the optimum outcome. Howard and his team also have a great deal of experience in looking at situations where an individual has entered into a voluntary arrangement or been made bankrupt and the Supervisor or Trustee in Bankruptcy is trying to realise assets for the creditors.

“During the last year we have been involved in some very large assignments.” In addition to being a Licensed Insolvency Practitioner, Howard is a long-time accredited Mediator as well as a member of the Cayman Islands Bar. He has lectured and published extensively on many aspects of insolvency, with a particular skill in VAT. He is also the Executive Editor of Croner’s A-Z of VAT and is currently commissioned to write a corporate insolvency textbook. As experts go, Howard is up there. “I find that many people dabble in insolvency, (including some lawyers), and it is a mistake. I deliberately limit what I do to that which I am good at – namely, insolvency. Unfortunately, the curse of the wider insolvency profession is the self-styled ‘insolvency consultant’, namely a rogue who dabbles in insolvency, waiting for a company to crumble before taking an undeserved huge fee.” And in today’s climate, Howard’s resolve is being tested in terms of new cases – there is a great deal to do. “Darbys has six lawyers in the team working full-time on nothing but insolvency cases. Presently, we face a constant tidal wave of work, which metaphorically batters against the windows. Just before Christmas, I told clients that I wasn’t going to take on any new work at that time. For me, it is all about quality service; I am not going to do a bad job due to the volume of my workload and that’s why I turned the tap off and referred clients to another member of the team. I was safe in the knowledge that, although I was unavailable, the client’s interests would be served by one of my colleagues – each of whom is skilled and experienced in their own right”.

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Both Elizabeth and Howard hold Insolvency Practitioner licences and with only around 120 new licences issued annually across England, Wales and Scotland, it is a sought-after qualification. “It is a great badge”, explains Howard. “There are only 153 solicitors in England and Wales who have an Insolvency Practitioner’s licence and we have two of those in Darbys – almost unheard of for a firm of our size and location.” The Darbys Corporate Recovery team acts on behalf of Insolvency Practitioners who hold the same licences as Howard and Elizabeth. Howard stresses however, that the boundaries are clearly drawn, “Many of my clients are insolvency practitioners. They know what we do and we know their role. We could compete with them, but that would be commercial suicide and we love the role we perform.” There is no ego about Howard Roberts. He is not saying he is good at what he does

“During the last year we have been involved in some very large assignments, as well as some more run-of-the-mill cases. As an example – we have been advising the Administrators of a very high profile multi-million pound company. That case has been on behalf of a national insolvency firm. The case was featured extensively in the national media. Total creditors’ claims are in excess of £15 million. We have advised on issues such as the validity of security, upon a £2 million dispute between Administrators, Banks and other group companies, and upon other multi-million pound recovery issues. “We were also separately involved in advising a Trustee in Bankruptcy on a multi-million pound asset realisation where the Bankrupt refused to co-operate and actively sought to hide assets. The case has been complicated by a second (and possibly third) bankruptcy, together with the Bankrupt being in contempt of court throughout. “On numerous occasions recently we have provided advice to commercial landlords, who were inadvertent creditors following the administration of large corporates like Woolworths and Zavvi. We have also dealt with numerous cases where an Administration has led to a going concern sale of a business and the preservation of jobs”. The team has also seen increasing demand for turnaround advice in the present climate. “We respond quickly as these things are usually urgent. Now is a very busy time for Insolvency lawyers”, says Howard “but for me success means saving a business and jobs, or seeing justice done where a debtor is trying to hide assets. However, I am very conscious of the stress which insolvency can bring to bear upon both debtors and creditors; I see part of my role as steering people through the trauma of insolvency." “I never lose sight of the fact that the aim of Parliament has been to create a ‘rescue culture’ whereby innocent insolvent debtors are rehabilitated. I do all that I can to ensure this happens wherever possible.” Rest assured, whichever way it is you may be dealing with insolvency, you will be in good hands at Darbys; one meeting with Howard will convince you of that.

Contact details on page 102

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B4 LEGAL

A PASSION FOR RECOVERY Elizabeth Taylor and Howard Roberts head the Insolvency Team at Darbys Solicitors. They have, they say, a real passion for saving and turning companies around. This is a belief that no doubt comes from the fact that they are both Licensed Insolvency Practitioners, which is rare for a law firm outside of London. A meeting with Howard tells you why they have got to where they are and there is no wondering how far they will go. There is certainly little to stop this team going the distance. Interview by Richard Rosser.

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news Doors Open at Oxford Cancer Centre Words like wonderful, inspiring, and beautiful aren't normally used to describe a hospital - but people visiting the new Oxford Cancer Centre in early March were full of praise for the £109 million building, which has just opened its doors to the public. The purpose-built centre has 217 beds and 10 new operating theatres, bringing cancer services at the Oxford Radcliffe Hospitals NHS Trust together in one dedicated centre. The thousands of patients who will be treated here each year can be confident that they are getting the very best possible care, looked after by some 800 staff. The opening is the perfect time to reflect on the incredible fundraising efforts that have helped to make the centre so special. So far nearly £2 million has been raised to help fund state-of-the-art equipment and superb patient facilities that are beyond the means of the NHS alone. Many local companies have shown great generosity, including Fineprint, Jack FM, Smiths of Bletchington, Boots and STL Communications. Darbys, the Oxford Solicitors, have pledged to raise £50,000 to create their own garden and have even had staff volunteering on site with gardening work. Whilst Siemens asked their staff to nominate a charity to support with the Oxford Cancer Centre coming out as the overwhelming favourite. Chantelle Barker said “The fundraising has been tremendously popular with staff - they are running marathons, raffles and sales and even had management serving the staff Christmas lunches to help raise £4,000 so far for the appeal.” Alice Hahn Gosling, Director of Fundraising said: “We are incredibly grateful for the support we get from the business community who have made such a great contribution towards the Oxford Cancer Centre. We enjoy making fundraising a really positive experience and regularly see great benefits to companies who get involved, including boosting staff morale and creating positive publicity.”

The Oxford Cancer Centre which has just opened to the public. (Steffian Bradley Architects/Andy Spain)

How You and Your Company Can Get Involved We’d love to talk to your company about the range of work that takes place at Charitable Funds and how you can get involved. Do call us to find out about all our campaigns. The next three big events are: The Oxford Mail OX5RUN – taking place on Sunday 19 April and sponsored by Allen Associates and Motorworld, this five mile run around the beautiful grounds of Blenheim Palace is raising funds for the Children’s Hospital. We’d love your company to get involved and enter a team. Kate Allen, Managing Director of Allen Associates and a sponsor of the OX5RUN says: "We wanted to raise money for the Oxford Children's Hospital in a way that would foster team working, raise morale in these difficult times and to do something healthy. Training for the run is proving a great team-building exercise for us. I encourage as many employers as possible to take up the challenge and enter their own team for the run."

Children’s Hospital Golf & Spa Day – On Wednesday 13 May join companies from across Oxfordshire at Bicester Country Club and choose to join in 18 holes of competitive fun or spend the day relaxing in the spa, with a top class three course meal to round off your day. Also on display at the club throughout May are John Brown’s contemporary metal sculptures. John will be donating 10% of all sales to the charity. The Cancer Abseil – let yourself go on Sunday 17 May by abseiling 100 foot from the roof of the Women’s Centre at the JR. This adrenalin packed event is a fun way to raise funds for the Cancer Centre. Sign up soon as the event is more than half full. For more details of all these events call 01865 743444 or check out our website at www.orhcharitablefunds.nhs.uk

So why not find out more about our wide range of fundraising events and corporate partnership possibilities. Contact Head of Community Fundraising, Graham Brogden on 01865 743442

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Contact details on page 102

SCIENCE OXFORD Science Oxford Live, a key facet of Science Oxford, provides a venue for our wide and varied work with local science-based businesses and schools, as well as with the general public. Amanda Nolte of Science Oxford, tells Katie Avis-Riordan of B4 more about the work of Science Oxford, and their plans for the future.

Science Oxford Live is a unique public venue, based in St Clements, less than a mile from the City Centre. The venue, which has recently been refurbished, enables people of all ages to discover, explore and debate science. With three central activities, there is something for everyone, from five to eighty. The exhibition space showcases a new science exhibition for adults and older children every couple of months, with topics ranging from space science to neuroscience, genetics to technology and physics to engineering.

aims to call forth from people an intrinsic reverence for life and a passionate love of learning,’ which really does sum up Science Oxford’s drive.It is a more than admirable trail this forward-thinking, fresh and vibrant organisation are blazing, but it is not just contained in the St Clements based centre. Science Oxford worked with around two hundred and fifty science and technology companies last year in Oxford, helping them to develop and grow. Amanda explains that this is the end product of a cycle which starts with the work at the base in Oxford.

organisations and find out how they are getting on and how we can help. We do a lot of research and so we can see where the support is needed.”

Younger children and their families can explore science by playing in the discovery zone.

“We connect young people with the challenge and excitement of science and enterprise, because we want them to feel that they can make a difference. Working closely with schools, we help young people to enjoy science, and to see the potential that science has to change our lives and the future of Oxfordshire’s high-tech economy. It is a forward production line we are trying to establish; working from the young people up, developing more of a scientifically literate community. There are long term benefits - it is also about supporting Oxfordshire, but not necessarily only from an economic perspective, but from a cultural perspective too.”

“We also run Science Oxford Networks for ICT because we found by running various initiatives that a number of companies that came along were from the ICT sector. So it was clear that they were very open to support and there were lots of them. I think the ICT sector, if you include service provision, equates to about fifty percent of high tech companies in Oxfordshire, but, on the whole, they are very small companies and need the support of the network we provide.

“Our diverse public events programme offers both adults and children interesting, informative and entertaining events, presenting science in varied and often innovative and experimental ways. Whether our audience is debating key issues in science, being dazzled by cutting edge technological advances, discussing issues with experts, or enjoying a performance of science comedy or theatre, there is plenty on offer,” explains Amanda. “The mission of Science Oxford (formerly known as The Oxford Trust) is to encourage the pursuit of science and enterprise. And that involves a very holistic approach, working with young people, the public and businesses.” A quick web search tells me that ‘Holistic education

“The work that we do with businesses directly focuses on looking at innovative ways that we can support science and technology companies. By that we mean a whole cross-section; ICT, motorsport, engineering etc….. What we try to do is work in collaboration with

“The Experience Exchange is a great example; because we work with lots of different types of people, we are able to connect experienced entrepreneurs with the inexperienced entrepreneurs, the idea being that the latter learn from the mistakes made by the former, and it potentially builds a mentoring relationship between them.

“We are all about providing joined up solutions to Oxfordshire’s high tech economy, by working with a lot of different groups of people, making children excited about the potential of science and technology, but not necessarily about becoming a scientist. It is about the people, culture, society ……. it is about everybody. “We want everyone to feel really excited about what is

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B4 ENJOY

going on in Oxford, with the amazing collection of high tech and science businesses here. We don’t want everyone to become scientists, people can do what they want to do, but we want to put people in touch with the excitement that science provides, and show what an exciting place Oxfordshire is. We are taking a snapshot of what these incredible businesses are doing (and what Science Oxford are helping them to do) and showcasing this to the public – we should all have an immense amount of pride that great things are happening on our doorstep.” And it doesn’t stop there. Having refurbished the current Oxford site, there are plans afoot for a future move, “The plan for the future is that in the next two or three years we will be in a large city centre based science centre that will provide a showcase opportunity for science and technology in Oxfordshire. It will have a ‘wow’ factor to it. It will be about five times bigger than our current location with a planetarium and restaurant.” So get in touch with Science Oxford and visit the recently transformed centre in St Clements, Oxford. There are new exhibits in the discovery zone for children and their families and there are new exhibitions called ‘Scienceof Oxford’ and ‘Science in Oxford’ for adults and older children, and Amanda concludes, “Science is fun, it’s the future and it can spark imagination – join us for the journey.” www.scienceoxford.com

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Contact details on page 102

B4 FEATURE

THE NEW BODLEIAN

These are exciting times at the four hundred year old Bodleian Library in Oxford, with the announcement last spring of the re-development of the New Bodleian on Broad Street and launching the online Catalogue of the Marconi Archive in November 2008. The Bodleian is an institution working hard to create a balance between preserving their collections, with the need for a modern outlook for future accessibility and research, as well as being a major visitor attraction. Sarah Wiseman, B4’s Arts and Culture writer, went to meet The Bodleian’s Roddy Bedford, Acting Head of Commercial Operations, to discuss the new developments and find out how commercial operations work within the Library, to chat about whether or not the credit crunch is having an impact, and find out how important it is for culture and business to support each other in Oxford. Roddy is responsible for everything that generates income for the Library, from events and weddings, to designing the Christmas cards and managing filming requests. It is a huge undertaking and takes great vision and understanding of the brand that is ‘The Bodleian Library’. However with the kind of energy and passion that Roddy emanates, it is no wonder that at Christmas 2008 they sold 28,000 packs of cards from their own brand range and have major retailers expressing an interest in stocking them for 2009. The new shop, which launched in 2007, has been a huge success, and this is also mirrored by the website which doubled its income in 2008 through online sales, which enables Oxford enthusiasts and Alumni to procure a small part of the Library from anywhere in the world. One of the most exciting projects on the horizon is the re-development of the New Bodleian Library on Broad Street. The renovation will transform the housing of the Bodleian’s priceless collections and will open up its treasures to the public. A key donation of £5m from Julian Blackwell has started the fundraising campaign for the re-development which will turn the New Bodleian into

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a major research centre, and a significant new cultural centre, where scholars, citizens of Oxford and visitors to the city can view some of the University’s greatest treasures, and gain insights into the research activities of the University. Julian Blackwell, President of Blackwell's said: ‘The Bodleian is unique; it not only has the largest and most important University collection in the world, but it is leading the development of cutting-edge information services which are so vital to academic research. I am proud that my personal Trust can support the Bodleian and thereby enable its neighbour, Blackwell's, to be a shared destiny lifetime partner.’ Commercial operations tread a difficult path as they have to balance the need to generate income for the Library whilst being mindful of its primary purpose, not forgetting the readers. The team manage to do this with great sensitivity by developing imaginative products from the collection to arranging out of hours tours of the Library as an add on to events held in the Divinity School. It is a broad approach that requires inspirational thinking to make it work; exploring every avenue and spending many hours researching the actual collection and it is this clarity of vision that clearly is the key to its success. Roddy felt that this progressive outlook could be projected further into the whole strategy for promoting Oxford. She feels that we rely too much on our history as enough of a draw to bring people naturally to Oxford and that it was this that held us back from making more of the City and what we have to offer to visitors and citizens alike.

“One thing that is constantly sited as a problem for Oxford is the parking and the general difficulty that people have navigating the city. We have received a lot of negative national press on the subject and it has stuck, putting people off visiting, and this needs addressing. “Oxford has a lot to offer and whilst we should be evangelical about our past (after all, it's what makes us special), we need to have a positive all -encompassing vision for the city's future. In terms of the current economic climate, we remain positive at the Library and are investing in capital projects and developing new products. “We have found that customers and visitors are now more discerning and thoughtful over spending and are looking for things that are either local or unusual, which they will discover the in Bodleian Shop or by taking our guided tours. “The credit crunch is not dissimilar to this winter's snow, unlikely bonds formed uniting people to thwart a common adversary. In the coming months, businesses will need to look to each other for support rather than working in isolation. Finding common ground to offer promotions, sponsorship and sharing knowledge and skills will be vital to Oxford's cultural businesses.' Roddy Bedford will be handing over responsibilities for Tours and Events and the Front of House team to Anneke Bambery, the new Historic Venues Officer, from April 2009. Roddy will continue in her role as Trading Manager in the Commercial Operations Department. Contact details on page 102

FROM WOBURN TO MAGNOLIA

Richard Rosser talks to Patrick Flynn, Magnolia Golf Club’s new pro, about why he made the switch from Woburn Golf Club and what excites him about the future of one of Oxfordshire’s finest golf courses. Words by Katie Avis-Riordan.

I met Patrick on a Sunday before he broke off from a hectic schedule for a well deserved two week break. As we sit in the bar of the Magnolia, Patrick is focused on explaining what attracted him to Magnolia, despite the potential distraction of his beloved Man Utd appearing in another Cup Final over his left shoulder. “I wanted a fresh challenge. Woburn was great, and my life was comfortable, but I needed something to drive me. Don’t get me wrong, I was driven and motivated at Woburn, but I wanted to be able to put my imprint on a product and Woburn was the finished article – it just needed polishing every day – whereas Magnolia is a live project, something I can influence.” Having lived in the States until he was twelve, Patrick came to England for the first time to the south coast and Hampshire, as he continues, “That is basically how I got into golf. There was a local golf course called Barton-on-sea Golf Club; it is right on the south coast, looking out at Needles on the Isle of Wight, a beautiful spot. I played golf through school for fun and it helped me to settle and make a lot of friends. And I was half decent, and it gave me a good grounding to be a coach, because, as a boy, I did just about everything the wrong way! So, when you discover the right way, and things actually, it that obviously makes a massive impression on you when you think about the time and energy you could have saved! “It took about two years to get to the required standard. The first mistake I made was to spend a year just hitting golf balls without any guidance. Then I spent a year playing. At every possible chance, I played eighteen holes of golf and I learnt how to play. My first job in golf was at Delapre Golf Complex in Northampton in 1994 when I was twenty three. In the seventies and eighties it was the largest complex in Europe and it was a great place for a good grounding in the basic golf disciplines; it was a real golf school. “I continued to go for lessons with Luther Blacklock, Club Professional at Woburn, whilst at Delapre and I eventually ended up joining him there in August 1998. Since then, I have had a fantastic time. The Dukes golf course at Woburn has held several major European tour events, and within a year of arriving the Marquess course was opened, which is now the main tournament course, shortly after the British Masters returned for four years. At Woburn, all three courses

rate in the top one hundred in the country - it is a unique venue. “We saw an immense amount of corporate business as it is a hotspot for celebrities - it draws that sort of clientele. A lot of my income came from planning and running the corporate days but also instruction, clinics and presentations. We tried to make golf inclusive there, which is what we are trying to do here also.” Patrick also headed up the junior tuition side at Woburn. “We gave our club juniors ten sessions a year; they had a couple of hours of tuition in the morning and then they went out and played a competition in the afternoon. I was instrumental in putting that programme together. And last year, something I had wanted to do for many years, I organised a golf summer camp for kids outside the club membership. Our youngest was about seven or eight and they all did really well. I also ran tuition classes on Saturdays, and, quite often, two thirds of the group would be girls. This is something I will be running here at Magnolia and interested parents should call me for further details.” As a child, Patrick recounts the story of the PE teacher who thought that softball was going to eclipse cricket in popularity and didn’t believe in competition, “The truth was, he couldn’t be bothered, and that really had an impact on me. I want pros to be out there in the schools encouraging kids, telling them that there are opportunities. You really don’t know that someone who has never been exposed to golf might become the next Harrington or Woods. The really good players at Woburn became mini celebrities, and it is a selling point when a big name comes from your club. “For me golf kept me off the streets. I was not hanging around Saturdays, but playing golf. It is something I feel passionate about; it has been a blessing in my life. The facilities here lend themselves to anyone starting from scratch and that is one of my key aims at Magnolia.” Patrick’s passion for golf is unquestionable and to have someone of his calibre, drive and determination will undoubtedly be a huge boost for Club Managing Director, Derwynne Honan, who joins us briefly for a chat, “Having Patrick here is going to be a huge boost for the Club, I have only come in relatively recently, so between us we are spearheading a new era for the

Club and we expect great things. Patrick has had great experience, there is no denying that, and we are very fortunate to have him at Magnolia. We are investing in some great technology and Patrick’s ideas for developing the Club will certainly take it up a level.” And Patrick is very confident that the raw materials of a great club are already in place, “Having completed ten years at Woburn, the time was right for a new challenge and here I have total freedom to expand some key areas, particularly providing hi-tech quality coaching for the elite player, and simple, easy to understand instruction for the absolute beginner. Our facility here at Magnolia is open to everyone attracted to golf! I played a tournament here eight or nine years ago and I remembered nearly all of the holes from playing it once all that time ago. “When the possibility of a job came up here, that is what I remembered immediately. It has beautiful views on the sixth, seventh and eighth, looking out over the Oxfordshire countryside. We also have a great grass practice area and short game area. Not a lot of people know we have the par three course.” Patrick is bursting with excitement concerning his new high-tech coaching and teaching suite, which, for those B4 readers that know the club, is the old pro shop. “It will be one the best facilities of its type in the country. Featuring in our Golf Swing Studio are the latest advancements in golf tuition. We have the Explanar golf swing training system, C-Swing analysis software, the TOMI putting analysis system and Motion Golf, of which we will have the only system in Europe. The studio will double up as a facility to custom-fit clubs to golfers of all statures and standards and to meet all budgets. “We also have a par three course open to those of mixed abilities, and further lends to Magnolia’s reputation as a ‘golf school’”. Anyone interested in more information on coaching, beginners tuition, kids summer schools, or custom fitted golf clubs should ring Patrick on the pro shop number 01844 239700. We complete the interview with a few shots of Patrick hitting a ball for our article pictures, and if his sweet shots are anything to go by, there’s no doubt Patrick Flynn will be a big hit at Magnolia. Contact details on page 102

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B4 SPOTLIGHT

MEMBER

BENEFITS Would you like to enjoy the benefits of becoming a Member of Magnolia Park? These include full usage of the 18 hole Championship Golf Course, the 9 hole Academy Course, the extensive Practice Area, the Gymnasium, the Sauna and Steam Rooms and the Bars and Restaurants. Any member with an official handicap may enter the many club competitions and inter club matches. Any new member without an official handicap will be helped to obtain one as quickly as possible. For more information please call the sales office on 01844 239700 or visit the website at www.magnoliapark.co.uk

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TRADITIONAL LUXURY The Macdonald Randolph Hotel is the leading five-star hotel in Oxford, attracting guests from far and wide due to the truly luxurious experience on offer. Katie Avis-Riordan visited this landmark hotel’s General Manager, Michael Grange, who’s own career history involves a long line of well-established hotel brands, to discover the fantastic facilities, customer care and service available, and to learn the key to succeeding in the current climate and the importance of moving with the times.

Michael Grange has always been in the hotel

classic slice of Oxford. Think Morse, think Oxford don,

business. His long and distinguished career saw

think tradition. And, as the conversation leads to talk

him arrive at The Randolph in 2005, but, thirty

of downturns, as almost all interviews inevitably do at

Are Macdonald as a group being proactive in

years ago, Michael attended a hotel management

some stage, it is clear that The Randolph is enjoying its

taking advantage of the current situation?

course at Grosvenor House Hotel in London and

immunity.

started his career working in Brown’s, also in

overseas travel at such reasonable prices.”

“Yes we are. We are looking at how we can exploit

London. Ten years later, he moved out to The

“At the moment we are absolutely on track for hitting

different markets overseas. We are a relatively small

Queen’s Hotel in Cheltenham, followed by moves

our targets”, enthused Michael ,”and I am very positive

group, with just forty five hotels, so we can put our

to The Post House Hotel in Milton Keynes, The

about the year. I think the weakness of the pound

resources into the areas that are often fruitful and most

Swan Hotel in East Anglia for about seven years,

against the dollar and euro is helping to generate

beneficial. We have a good geographic spread of

and then to Winchester where he managed The

overseas business, particularly with the Americans. We

properties all over the country.”

Wessex in Winchester and The White Hart in

have, in the past, been awfully expensive in this

Salisbury. Michael’s final move before The

country, so, hopefully, this will open new markets and

Randolph was to Bath, managing the five star Bath

attract new visitors to the hotel.

Spa Hotel.

Is there a tradition of loyalty to the brand? “Definitely. We have a lot of key clients and

“I also think that British people are looking to stay in the

companies, who are loyal to us - we have their

His passion and commitment for The Randolph are

UK, instead of traveling abroad, and Oxford is certainly

preferred status. We also have a loyal base of guests

clear, as we sit in the tea room overlooking the

a popular destination. I believe we are awfully lucky in

that come to us on a regular basis within the group

awe-inspiriting Ashmolean – what a treat for an Oxford

Oxford as it has such wonderful profile, so people want

and we make sure that we look after these guests

resident, let alone a visiting tourist or corporate. Sharply

to come and visit us. I think potential visitors have

through our loyalty club, which gives certain privileges

suited, Michael embodies the class and style which

given the UK short break a miss over the past few

such as room upgrades and extra amenities in

oozes from every living and breathing pore of this

years with the growth of the budget airlines permitting

bedrooms. People seem to appreciate the little

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B4 HOTELS

touches and keep coming back for more. I think that in

“We have constantly invested over the years and have

well. By offering what is wanted by the corporate

this present climate, it is vitally important to offer

plans going forward. We have put in extra room

market in such a glorious environment enables our

fantastic service and customer care plus added value

facilities such as internet connections and flat screen

corporate customers to get on with what they have to

to keep your customers happy and, more importantly,

televisions, so we are hopefully moving with the times,

do, but at the same time they can feel part of the

keep them coming back. If you are not offering those

which I think is very important.

history of Oxford.

business principles has been key, particularly in Oxford,

“You can be scared and concerned when new

“We have six function rooms, including our main

where business is excellent.

properties open in the area, but, it often proves to be

ballroom, which can accommodate up to two hundred

the case that most properties are dealing with different

and twenty guests. But we also have small meeting

“The Randolph has been in Oxford for nearly one

markets and slightly different clientele. I also firmly

rooms, and an exceptional restaurant.”

hundred and fifty years. We are part of a cornerstone

believe that it helps you to up your game because your

of Oxford life. We have so many people who were

clients now have more options, which means we must

The Randolph is certainly a part of Oxford’s history,

educated at Oxford and who have gone on to senior

try that bit harder.”

sitting proudly, chest out, on the corner of Beaumont

value, people can easily move. Following these

positions, both nationally and internationally. They want

Street. It continues to deliver a level of service and

to come and show off their roots, which definitely

The Randolph would appear to be a destination for

product which is all too often allowed to slip in the

works in our favour. Being opposite The Ashmolean is

tourists, but your corporate attraction is also strong,

hustle and bustle of modern day life. Not here. Michael

good for us, and I would hope we are good for them

I understand.

Grange and his first class team will ensure that your

– we work very well with eachother.”

expectations are matched, and then surpassed, and “We are, in fact, almost a 50 / 50 corporate / leisure

It is quite obvious that The Randolph has an

mix. We have an excellent corporate client base. As we

ongoing and committed re-investment and

are right in the heart of the city and offer all of the

refurbishment programme.

commercial requirements for business, we do very

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then you’ll be back, just like everyone else!

Contact details on page 102

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B4 FEATURE

QUALITY CONTROLLED The OAHGH website (www.stayoxford.co.uk) proudly proclaims that, ‘Our members offer you a first-class choice of accommodation in all parts of Oxford, in all price-ranges and in all styles. Book with confidence: these establishments have been assessed and graded for quality, service and comfort by the AA or VB (Visit Britain). The higher the number of stars, the higher the level of facilities and services provided. It is this level of quality which Stefan has worked hard to raise and which has brought its fair share of casualties, as he explains. “When the association started in 1947, as you can imagine, the standards set weren’t that high – it was more a collective of individuals wanting to make changes, but they weren’t under the same pressures to meet quality levels as they are now. I came to Oxford with a wide range of hotel experience under my belt.” Tilbury Lodge is a Visit Britain four star Guest House with a Silver Award, boasting ‘The Best B & B By Far’ credentials on its website. Stefan is no preacher – he practices high standards which he expects those in his flock to follow, “When I joined the association, in my honest opinion, the members were just having a nice little tea party – it wasn’t for me, and I told them so. What was the point, I said, in meeting if you weren’t going to DO anything? This, as you can imagine, didn’t go down too well at first, but having been reprimanded, I was made chairman the following year, and a large number of members departed.” This provided Stefan with the opportunity to focus on the remainder, predominantly the higher quality accommodation establishments who liked what he was telling everyone. “I put together the website, which is now getting over twenty thousand hits a month, a brochure and started to work on the remaining members, to make sure they made the grade. “There are still sub-standard accommodation providers in the city, not our members I hasten to add, who drag the perception of Oxford into the lowest levels. These providers shouldn’t, even though this sounds harsh, be in business. They don’t meet standards, they have no standards, and they show Oxford in the worst light –

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they are a catalyst for bad publicity the world over, and my colleagues and I are working tirelessly with the Council, Health and Safety and the Police to weed these businesses out. Oxford really doesn’t need them.” The OAHGH has now gone from strength to strength in terms of its membership, the members are networking a lot better and there is a good feeling, as Stefan continues, “Now we have forty accredited members, mainly guest houses as the hotels tend to be chains. Once you fulfill our accreditation, you fill out a membership form, you pay your fees and somebody comes to check your place and then we get on with it.” And that’s the way Stefan operates, no puff, just action – if you’re not good enough, you’re not in. ”We represent almost eight hundred rooms in Oxford, so that is one thousand six hundred people per night. The work I and my committee do is voluntary, and sometimes it feels like we are banging our head against a brick wall, and the downturn isn’t helping. But, as a unit, we are strong and can work through this together. Recently we are negotiating with booking agents Eviivo, and this could treble bookings almost instantly – not bad for a system which should cost us a lot of money but which we, potentially, stand to benefit from for free.“ Stefan is working on other ways to get, as he says, ‘bums in beds’, whether it is deals with suppliers en bloc so that his members can keep their prices competitive, better promotion like the recent promotional map published in conjunction with In Oxford Magazine, or just maintaining the quality levels amongst his members which he has worked so hard to establish. This friendly giant’s passion for Oxford is unerring, but his main beef is, in his opinion, the lacklustre approach to marketing Oxfordshire around the world, “We have such a good product here in Oxford, turning over millions through tourism, but we don’t market it properly. There seems to be a reluctance to get out there and shout about Oxford, whereas lesser Cities are doing ten times more than we are, and we have to watch out Oxford doesn’t get forgotten. So we have the University, great, but if people aren’t perpetually reminded about the University, the great restaurants, hotels and other attractions, we can slip out of mind, quite quickly. “Amongst ourselves we communicate; a lot more than ever before. I think that’s great - the association has never been as strong as it is now. I would like to see more hoteliers coming on board so that we can represent the majority in hospitality. But as we are responsible for a lot of visitors coming to Oxford, we need the City to back us – the City has a lot it can do to help.” And you’d do well to stand in this man’s way.

Contact details on page 102

Photography: www.studio-8.co.uk

Oxford’s Association of Hotels and Guest Houses (OAHGH) is a tightly knit group of high quality hotels and guest houses, more than ably lead by Stefan Wynne-Jones, who himself runs the well-appointed Tilbury Lodge in Botley. If I could choose my Association leader, Stefan would be my man – rough, tough and with an incredible appetite to see Oxfordshire excel. Richard Rosser met with this engaging South African to talk about the evolution and re-shaping of the OAHGH and Stefan’s hopes for Oxfordshire’s future.

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B4 FEATURE

FACECHART

Ever thought it would be great to be able to simply update your company organisation chart, or just give the staff a lift with an ‘Employee of the Month’ prominently displayed frame, or show off your big sales performers to generate a bit of much needed competition amongst the salesforce? Richard Rosser finds out how a local company is helping businesses around the world do this, in seconds. facechart has decades of experience in the mounting and framing business through its sister company, Bayswater Framing, based in Headington. As facechart spokesman, Dave Beesley states, “We understand the needs of business and have developed an unrivalled product and a well-honed system to ensure that your organisation’s chart fits your needs. We pride ourselves on accuracy, craftsmanship and superb customer service.” www.facechart.co.uk has been developed through the expertise of Bayswater, a leading bespoke trade picture framing studio, who recognised the increasing need for the product as they are often asked by design studios and clients to create pictures and titles for staff teams, which has, until now, been very labour intensive and expensive. With the aid of computer technology and the expertise of bespoke picture framing experience, facechart was created to facilitate a simple and cost effective way of meeting the increasing needs and uses for this product. facechart are also able to adapt to any specific requests for tailor-made products. For example, logos can be added to the title box, larger frames can be made to accommodate more individual photographs, and mount board colours can be matched to company brands. The web solutions have proved to be the most popular solutions to date, and are therefore more cost effective. Design & development has been carried out by facechart’s technical partner OXLink, an internet developer based just outside Oxford. Lance Dorman, Managing Director of OXLink commented, “We have known Dave Beesley for over twenty years and were pleased when Dave shared his facechart vision with us and gave us the opportunity to work on this project. From the concept we devised the technically demanding application from the ground up. The first phase is designed to validate and prove the idea with subsequent development

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refining and expanding the service. Feedback from early testing has been extremely positive and we are looking forward to seeing the market response to this innovative service.” The photographic side of facechart was brought to life through Studio 8, and Clark Wiseman, director, was delighted to be involved, “As soon as David mentioned facechat, I knew we had to be involved. We have an excellent working relationship with David and this has helped the whole facechart process to move along smoothly.” The final piece in the jigsaw was to engage the services of B4 Magazine’s design team who created the visuals you see on this page, re-creating the facechart in high definition to be used for the facechart website and promotional materials, as explained by Keith Simpson, B4’s Creative Director, “To ensure that David was able to reflect facechart in all its glory, we had to recreate the facechart visual from scratch in photoshop, as photographing the facechart wasn’t an option due to reflections, this meant dropping Studio 8’s images into a recreated frame, complete with facechart logo, to create what you can see in the flesh.” David confirms what facechart will do for your business, “facechart will give your entrance area a welcome feel and will help put names to faces. Display your business, sports team or college staff in any entrance / reception area. facechart photos are also easily changeable as the photographs are held for a period of twelve months so that you can log in with your passwords, access the files, change one or two or all of the photographs, and you then just need to order the new poster, which is changed easily by you in the Bayswater Quickfit Frame.” It’s simple and effective. Log on to www.facechart.co.uk now and see how you can give your organisation a lift. Contact details on page 102

B4 ACCOUNTANCY

INCA what I heard, so we decided to go with Inca.”

Andy Holt of OSX Ltd sums it up, “Some accountants are stuffy and difficult to deal with. Other firms didn’t suit our trading style. Inca suit the culture of our business.”

Kirsten Buckle of Me and My Mac says,“ I find it very useful knowing that I’ve got somebody available to call or email with queries or advice about corporation tax, vat and so on. They’re always willing to answer my questions."

Inca understand the anxiety that many people, and particularly small business owners, feel about bookkeeping and accounting, so they created a service that provides a high level of support at no extra cost to the client. Inca want to save you money, and taking time out from your business to find the right accountant is not, to their way of thinking, a good start. Which is why Inca come to you for a free initial consultation. They listen to you, before discussing your individual business needs, and explain your tax and accounts to you in words that everyone can understand. Alexandra Sykes of Micronanics says, “Our previous accountant charged £65-00 an hour for advice and did not take on board my ideas about how to save money, although we could have saved thousands of pounds. We shopped around for another firm and Inca were the first people who were prepared to come to us, rather than us having to go to them. They listened to how we ran our business and discussed the best way forward. Inca’s approach made us feel at ease. I liked

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After the initial consultation, Inca set a fixed price for each job and stick to it. So, even if you need extra help, you don’t have to put your hand in your pocket again. The team are always there to give free telephone advice, so you can phone anytime and they will put your mind at rest.

Gary Allsworth of Windrush Roofing and Leadwork had Inca recommended to him by his Barclay’s Bank business manager, which we think is pretty impressive. Gary says, “Inca are really helpful, they can’t do enough for you. You can phone at any time if you’re stuck and they’ll advise you on anything they can. They’re always there at the end of the phone.” Inca work with their clients, helping in any way that they can. For Graham and Lesley, it’s all about what Inca can do for you, from the nitty-gritty through to the bigger picture. Alexandra Sykes “I was frightened to death of being VAT registered, so we always stayed under the threshold. Inca encouraged me to take on the extra work, and I feel a lot more confident. We have created a limited company, so that all our businesses are under one umbrella, and there is only one set of books..” Kirsten Buckle “They’ve always been very efficient doing my monthly payroll, which saves me lots of

hassle. Graham has been very good about recommending me to his clients. I’ve gained extra contacts and worked with lots of companies through Graham putting me in touch with other people.” Andy Holt “We now have order and clarity in our accounts. They’ve done so much tidying up. We know where we are on a month by month basis. It’s helped us plan things much better.” We asked Graham and Lesley to give us the lowdown on what Inca can do to help small businesses. They were full of helpful hints. For example, if you have set up a limited company since April 2008 and haven’t implemented payroll, you may have missed a chance of tax-free pay. So, on a salary of £6,000.00 you could save up to £1,250.00. Also, depending on the nature of your business, you could make even more profit by switching to a flat rate VAT scheme. And, because this is Inca, Graham is putting his money where his mouth is, with two half-price offers. So, the first 50 callers will receive an assessment of whether they can save money by switching to flat rate VAT, for only £49.00 + VAT. Alternatively, if you’re running a limited company and you draw dividends, without the minutes and vouchers to show that’s what they are, the taxman could say it’s a salary and tax you at 45%-46%... To help avoid this, Inca will provide the first 50 callers with templates for a suite of documents for board meeting minutes and tax vouchers. Half price at £49.00 + VAT. Go figure!

Contact details on page 102

Photography: www.studio-8.co.uk

For Inca, accountancy is about more than just numbers. Graham and Lesley Carson are the duel fuel behind this high performance company. So, what’s the key to their success? It’s very simple, they really care about their clients, which is one of the reasons why Inca specialise in providing help and advice to small businesses, from individuals and start-ups through to established companies.

‘GIVE AND, MAYBE, TAKE’ Seemingly present at every networking event in Oxfordshire, David Beesley of B-Line Office Supplies is the finished article when it comes to networkers. If there was an Oxfordshire networking badge, David’s face would be on it – he’s a living, breathing business portal, in the nicest sense of the word. And his various business interests, principally B-Line, all have the same networking ethos drilled into them, ‘Do unto others as you would have others do unto you’, just make sure you don’t expect anything back! Richard Rosser finds out what makes David Beesley and his priceless ‘word of mouth’ work so well for others. So let’s cut to the chase. How does this work? David introduces us to some of the businesses he works with and who work with him, but we also see David’s networking operating in wider circles where reciprocation isn’t key. Studio 8 Photography “We use Studio 8 for all of our photography. They are very professional and very efficient and extremely competitive. Having established a good working relationship, Clark Wiseman and his team know what we expect of them and they make sure they deliver. “I would never hesitate to recommend Studio 8 to customers, suppliers or B4 readers. Studio 8 have been integral to the development of facechart and there are also excellent synergies with our sister company Bayswater framing, who provide the framing service for Studio 8.” Oxlink, Web Design and Development “Oxlink have been superb in assisting us with the development of our various websites, including B-Line and Facechart. Lance Dorman and his team enabled us to be the front-runner locally in e-commerce and online procurement.”

he genuinely enjoys helping, and as a benefactor of Dave’s generous praise, B4 Magazine has certainly benefited from Dave’s high praise on significantly more than one occasion in the past. We have also found B-Lines services and delivery to be first class at all times, without any reason for complaint. David explains his modus operandi, “It is not just about doing business and making sure that is reciprocated. Of course, we want to help business where there is a reason to do so – if we need a product and a customer of ours provides it, there is no doubt that we will look to reciprocate the business. But I am just as likely to promote a non customer or supplier if I know that business does what it says it does, or delivers a good product or service, and that is often because I know the people involved are good, hard-working individuals who wouldn’t want to let you down – much as I wouldn’t want to let my customers down. “I seek three key qualities if I am going to recommend any business – they have to be professional, they have to deliver and they have to be competitive. The fourth can be taken as read – they have to be local!”

Darbys Solicitors “We have used Darbys legal services in our own businesses for as long as I can remember and they are also an excellent customer of B-Line. Always professional, we have always received a professional service from Darbys and I would never hesitate to sing their praises.”

In many ways, the Dave Beesley seal of approval is an endorsement of a business, a valuable invisible badge of accreditation from someone who has been there, seen it and done it…. a few times! As Dave concludes, “I take a great deal of pleasure in putting people in contact with each other, fitting round pegs into round holes. I am often e-mailed with a ‘thank you’ for putting someone in contact with somebody else – I have never had a bad experience where a recommendation has gone pear-shaped! It is vital that I am happy to recommend someone, I need to be comfortable with the personnel and the product or service they are offering. Recommendations given out arbitrarily can reflect badly on your business and cause more harm than good. I like to think I can spot a decent business – I should be able to do so by now!”

But this network expands beyond basic ‘quid pro quo’s’. Dave is also very hands on in the evolution of TBAC along with Mike Jennings of Monument and Garsington Business Parks. As an aside to this relationship, Dave helped Mike to create a green footprint at both business parks, which is proving to be a tremendous success. That programme is now being rolled out to other organisations of a similar type.

“In the fullness of time, there is always the hope that the compliment will be returned, but that’s not the reason for recommending others. It doesn’t cost anything to do someone a favour, and I derive a huge amount of satisfaction from successfully recommending a business I believe in, even if it is of no direct benefit to me. If I can do my bit to keep business in the county, then I have succeeded.”

David is also incredibly pro-active when it comes to promoting businesses to his contacts. There isn’t a hidden agenda for Dave –

Here are some companies who have benefited from Dave and B-Line’s generous recommendations:

Oxford Design Photographic “We have used Steve Floyd in a great two way working relationship. We have used Steve for various photographic fulfillment work outside the scope of the services which Studio 8 provide for us. This includes banners and other photography based reprographic work.”

B4 WORKING TOGETHER “I have dealt with both B-Line and Bayswater Framing and both have been superb in all that they do. David Beesley is an exceptional operator and deserves all the plaudits which come his way. His customer and staff care is first rate.” Paul Lowe, Operations Director, Darbys Solicitors

“It is very difficult to sum up David Beesley and B-Line. I’m convinced that if Dave spent all of his energies on B-Line, he would have had an international brand some time ago. But, by choice, David is someone who likes to help others. It is in his blood. He doesn’t have a separate agenda or ulterior motive. He is genuine, warm, successful in his own right, and honest – an all too rare combination in business today.” Richard Rosser, Managing Director, The In Oxford Group & B4 Editor

“We have known and worked with David Beesley for many years and thoroughly recommend B-Line and Bayswater framing to all of our clients. Their professional service goes beyond just delivery of a quality product. We have also beta tested Facechart and will endorse it to any company.” Paul Avins, Managing Director, Paul Avins Enterprises Ltd

“We use B-Line and Bayswater regularly, for consistency of service, timely action and personal approach. Dave allows his suppliers to do their very best, expects good service and timely delivery: he is an honourable person to work with, and a prompt payer (excellent when cash flow is critical).” Peronel Barnes, Managing Director, The Project Managers

“David recommended my business to one of his suppliers, and over twelve months later, I am still working with that company on their Design and Marketing material as an ongoing project. This is just one example of where David can link the right people together. He is a great ambassador for the networking scene and I am very grateful for how he has helped my company.” Matthew Lloyd, Managing Director. Matt Lloyd Design Agency

“Bayswater Framing offer a level of service that is hard to find in their industry, with exceptional turnarounds and efficient delivery service, it makes it easy for us to meet the demanding deadlines of our business and retail clients.

Photography: www.studio-8.co.uk

“David has introduced my business to many people - he is always looking to put people in touch, something which, as a small business, we appreciate very much. Connecting businesses is what David seems to enjoy most. The good thing is you know that if David likes your business, you can be sure he's telling someone about it - I'm sure there are many jobs that have come our way as a result of his generous testimonials.” Clark Wiseman, Managing Director, Studio 8 “Here at Oxford Design & Photographic Ltd, we are very lucky to have found B-Line as one of our long term business partners. I have traded together with Dave for over twenty years and we very quickly became the best of friends. I have always found him and his entire family and staff at B-Line to be trustworthy and helpful whenever we need advice, or to place an order. I was personally delighted when David asked us to get involved with his latest innovation, facechart. I am convinced there is a bright future for David and facechart and look forward to helping him take this vision forward in any way I can.” Steve Floyd, Managing Director, Oxford Design & Photographic Ltd

Contact details on page 102

THE HOUSE A STYLISH NEW COCKTAIL BAR A central location for those in the know, The House is destined to become an Oxford classic. Julian Rosser, owner of the successful Duke of Cambridge in Little Clarendon Street (undeniably Oxfordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most distinguished Cocktail Bar for over thirty years), has developed a stunning central Oxford location for that perfect pre dinner cocktail or post work wind down with a game of pool, Cluedo, or backgammon, all complete with waitress service.

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B4 ENJOY

If you need a bit of ‘wow factor’ in your life, then this is the place. Tucked away but still in the centre of town, this place has it all. Knock ’em dead interiors are certainly the order of the day. The House incorporates the same gob-smackingly fantastic bar as its older brother at The Duke, combining style, sophistication and chic with cracking touches such as a stunning chrome and black pool table in the games room upstairs, framed classic books on the walls and stunning white sphere lights hanging over the bar downstairs. A modern twist on a classic wood drawing room. Julian Rosser owner of ‘The House,’ who also owns The Duke of Cambridge in Little Clarendon Street, said, “ For a long time the centre of Oxford has needed an independent cocktail bar where people can come and relax and get good quality food and drinks in stylish surroundings with friendly service. I’m delighted to have found this venue right in the centre of town.” Julian, a well know businessman in Oxfordshire, started his life in the hospitality industry in 1992 when he opened Mortons in Broad Street, with his business

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partner, Paul Petrillo. This was quickly followed by a second outlet in the Covered Market. As regular drinkers in The Duke of Cambridge, when the opportunity came up in 1997 to buy it, they jumped at the chance. The business ran well and in 2000 Julian and Paul, looking for their next opportunity, opened Branca on Walton Street. In 2004, coinciding with the arrival of his first child, Julian decided to sell his share in Branca and concentrate his time on The Duke. He now feels ready for his next challenge. “I couldn’t pass this opportunity up and I’m very excited about the future” beamed Julian. And no wonder. The House leaves you asking how such a simple creation can be so brilliant? Where else in central Oxford can you find this combination of flair, decadence and first class hospitality? The simple answer is, you can’t. There’s a sharpness to The House which left us in total admiration for what had been achieved, and we hadn’t even ordered a drink! We found ourselves caught up in the England v France rugby international, sat upstairs in the games room with a cold beer and glass of champagne, knowing that had we been French, it wouldn’t have mattered. Everyone was happy – ok the score helped – but it

was an electric atmosphere in cool surroundings. The House won’t show football – just cricket and rugby, and that tells you everything you need to know. Our post match warm down was a joy. Where else can you find a drinks list combining over forty “come and get me” cocktails with a great selection of beers, not forgetting reasonably priced wine and champagne? They even stock Krug! We didn’t get anywhere near forty, but try these for starters: Apricot Cosmopolitan – Russian Standard, apricot liqueur with cranberry juice and a squeeze of lime; Tiki House – Koko Kanu rum,banana liqueur, coconut cream shaken with pineapple and lime juice (all Tiki cocktails are served in authentic Hawaiian Tiki glasses); Blood and Sand – you’ll have to find out for yourself, just order one and don’t look at the menu! The House is also available for hire, for meetings, parties or events. Catering also available. In the summer, The House terrace will open for business. Review by Richard Rosser (no relation) Contact details on page 102

SPUN

Richard Rosser visits Gavin Peck, manager of Bourton Mill Health and Leisure Club in the Centre of Oxford to find out more about what the club has to offer, why membership is so flexible, and then bloody stupidly signs himself up for a spin class! How foolish can one man get? As far as central locations go, you can’t get much

“The main selling point for this gym is that it is a

these were lean, mean, and, I could have sworn,

more central than Bourton Mill. Sitting in its first,

flexible gym with flexible memberships and there are

smirking bikes, telling me I wasn’t welcome, that only

second and third floor location, not one hundred

no contracts. This is a huge attraction for transient

fit people were allowed in the room.

yards from Carfax, this lively club is a heady

students, residents and individuals here for very short

cocktail of young professionals, students, young

periods of time.”

and old, as Gavin confirms, “The club is open to a

So, in the immortal words of Mr T, like a ‘Crazy Fool’, some may say, ‘Sucker’, I ventured in to the corner of

wide selection of people. We welcome corporate

And this ‘no tie-in’ policy is obviously bearing fruit, with

the room, hiding behind my water bottle. No one

members, but we also have a wide range of

a membership averaging around thirteen hundred.

spoke. Andrea, the trainer, arrived, disappointingly

students, both English and overseas.

When customers join up, they receive a free induction

promptly, telling everyone that she had a twenty mile

and a free programme, which is updated every month

run after this so she wouldn’t be going hard at it, “Nor

“Whenever you come to the gym, there is always an

or six weeks. There are also five personal trainers on

will I then”, I muttered under my already heavy breath,

instructor around. It is not a massive gym, it is quite

site.

and I hadn’t even started pedaling. Getting my feet in the straps was hard enough!

compact, and because there is a high volume of, particularly, student turnover, there are always fresh,

But, why oh why did I ask Gavin what classes they

new faces around, so it is never the same people all of

offer? I had a good overview of the club, no need to

But, do you know what, I loved it. Being in control of

the time, and you tend not to get cliques, like in some

delve any further was there? It’s a gym, centrally

the bike’s resistance and with a towel strategically

gyms. We always try and make our members feel

located, great facilities, flexible membership, wide

placed over the resistance lever (I saw the rest of you

welcome.

range of members, but I had to ask didn’t I? And Gavin

doing the same!), you could look good without

replied, “In terms of classes, we do yoga, spinning,

busting a gut, even though I did sweat for England

“We have three separate floors; the first floor is

Pilates, cardio-step, and we are just trying a pole dance

(Norway, Turkey and half of Russia too). Cycling up and

predominantly the weights area coupled with the

class. We have over thirty five classes a week so it is

down hills for 45 minutes was great fun, invigorating

changing area, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi. The

quite demanding.” So I ask what spinning is, and he

and inspirational.

next floor is predominantly cardio theatre with a spin

says “You should try it!” With a devilish grin and a ‘Run

room. On the top floor, we have the main studio. We

Fat Boy Run’ look on his face, daring me to do it, but

So what next Mr Peck? How about the pole dance

also offer massage therapy, which comes as an extra

knowing I wouldn’t mix it.

class?

two; there is the full membership, whether you want

But, after a few poor excuses for missing my slot and

B4 OFFER: B4 have 15 £500 memberships at

it with classes or without (we also offer a couples

one pathetic arrival fifteen minutes late when the class

Bourton Mill available for just £100 each. See:

membership, which is quite popular); and of course

was full, I made it to my spinning class one Saturday

www.inoxford.com

we have the student membership, with or without

morning. A room not 20ft square was full of about

classes.

twelve thousand bikes, not your average gym bike,

to the membership. Our memberships are split into

Contact details on page 102

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Photography: Quentin Wiles

B4 ENJOY

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,6 <285 *(77,1* <28

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news Credit Crunch Business Link is ensuring local businesses are receiving as much support as they need throughout the credit crunch. The range of support includes: • Free ‘Beat the Credit Crunch’ Seminars • Free twenty six page “Guide to Doing Business in Difficult Times” • Free Health Check with Business Link Adviser • Free report on how businesses are coping in the economic downturn • Advice and support on the national finance schemes available Deborah Wharton, CEO of Business Link comments: “The most common actions businesses are taking to lessen or mitigate against the effects of the downturn are revising their business plan, streamlining processes to cut costs, using or investigating different sales channels, reducing business journeys made by car or reducing fuel costs, seeking cheaper suppliers and implementing waste management activities to cut costs. “Our free health check provides practical advice and support on how to implement these actions and many more.”

Councillor Bob Price, Leader of Oxford City Council is working together with Business Link to help businesses through the credit crunch.

£1000 to Spend on Training Here’s an opportunity to receive up to £1000 to spend on training. Through Business Link £500 is available to MDs, owner managers and company directors of businesses with 5-250 employees. A further £500 (which must be match funded) is available to senior managers or the management team. This flexible Leadership and Management Grant can be

used towards one to one support from a personal business adviser, coaching, bespoke training, facilitation, consultation or working with peer groups – so you get support in the most appropriate way for your business. Up to £1,200 of funding per learner is also available towards training in business-critical areas. Bite-sized training in subjects essential to SMEs,

such as business improvement, team working, customer service, and risk management. Training solutions include: Business improvement techniques; Business systems/processes; Team-working/communications; Finance & credit; Risk management; Marketing & sales; Customer service; New product design; Cash flow & profit management and IT user / IT support.

Get Shirty Shirtworks in Osney Mead is one Oxfordshire company that has benefitted from both Leadership and Management funding as well as a Train to Gain grant through Business Link.

Managing director Arron Harnden comments: “Business Link pointed me in the right direction for training and my adviser has been very helpful and saved me a lot of time.

The company produces screen printed and embroidered corporate clothing, uniforms, workwear and promotional clothing. Shirtworks has been commissioned to work on projects for Samsung, Virgin and British Airways and also serves charity organisations such as Oxfam, Barnado’s and St John’s Ambulance as well as Oxford University.

“I could have spent hours trawling through the Internet to find the same information.” Shirtworks has a 22-strong staff including three directors. A new website is about to be launched and, despite the economic gloom, Shirtworks is certainly thriving.

The Best Support Business Link is experiencing a significant increase in the number of finance related calls. To ensure we are providing the best support for businesses in these difficult times we have therefore added to the finance expertise within our team. Specialist guidance and support is available to customers experiencing the current financial challenges and those looking for a broader knowledge of business finance. Business Link has full details of the National finance schemes available

www.b4-business.com

including the ‘Enterprise Finance Guarantee Scheme’, ‘Regional Loans’, and the £3m ‘Bridging Mezzanine Debt Fund’. If you are worried about paying your tax, National Insurance, VAT or other payments owed or due to HM Revenue & Customs, then contact the Business Payment Support Service. HMRC staff will review temporary options tailored to your business needs, for example arranging for payments to be made over a longer period.

Contact details on page 102

TO EAT Duck liver parfait centred with quince jelly, toasted brioche and lambs leaf salad – Seared scallops with a wild mushroom risotto and a lemon butter sauce – Orange sorbet with champagne – Fillet of Oxfordshire beef and braised ox cheek with celeriac, creamed potatoes, turned vegetables and braising sauces – Quartet of puddings individually garnished; Pistachio and vanilla Battenberg parfait, Star anise pannacotta with exotic fruit, raspberry and white chocolate bavarois and dark Belgium chocolate fondant. – Coffee and sweetmeats

WINE Montagny, “1er Cru”, La Grande Roche, Louis Latour Côte de Beaune-Villages, Louis Jadot

O FFER Hartwell House are offering a Spring Break for one lucky couple, courtesy of B4 Magazine: A one night stay, Sunday to Friday, for two people sharing a double or twin bedded room, inclusive of dinner to the value of £39.00 per person, cooked breakfast use of the Hartwell Spa, and VAT. The stay is valued at over £300.00 but can be yours for just £150 by booking at www.b4-business.com Valid until Monday 4th May 2009

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B4 HOTELS

HARTWELL HOUSE Richard and Tina Rosser brave the heavy snow to experience the delights of one of the region’s most impressive stately homes. The excellent hospitality of Director and General Manager, Jonathan Thompson, showed why Hartwell House Hotel, Spa and Restaurant, located in the vale of Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire, was voted one of the country’s best country hotels by The Sunday Times Travel Magazine in 2008. Words by Abi Rosser. I felt like Jack Nicholson driving to the hotel in ‘The Shining’. The roads were treacherous, the temperature below freezing and we were late for our pre-arranged massage – I’m not sure if ’Mad Jack’ had a massage lined up, but maybe if he had, he wouldn’t have lost the plot. But all was well as we swept into the majestic driveway, overlooked by the most beautiful ‘ruined’ church you are likely to set eyes upon.

matched the surroundings. We were certainly left to feel slightly hard done by that we were only staying for the one night, as we felt so at home. So much so, in fact, that we retired to one of the three drawing rooms for a post dinner liquer, chatting long into the night as the gargantuan fire crackled and hissed behind us. After a long week at work, I normally yearn for my bed, but not tonight, we were replete and needy of more Hartwell comfort.

We were met at the car by David, who helped us negotiate the hazardous pathway down the slope to the magnificent entrance. Snow seems to dull any noise, but you can‘t imagine this setting perturbed by anything other than birds singing or trees rustling. It truly was mesmeric. With the moonlight splashing off the un-trod snow, Hartwell House found itself illuminated, the centre of attention.

As Hartwell has just thirty rooms, even on the busiest nights – which this wasn’t due to the hostile weather conditions – you won’t feel stifled, rushed or one of a number. This is truly a setting to recharge, to relax and reinvigorate.

Our room was phenomenal, no other words can describe it, but, two words, Queen’s Suite, will probably give you an idea. With views across the ninety-four acres of Capability Brown landscaped parkland, overlooking the lake spanned by a stone bridge, eighteenth century statues and other garden buildings, it was easy to feel like an imposter traveling back in time. Still, not too guilty to agree to a pre-dinner drink with our host, who filled us in with the history of Hartwell House and more detail as to what guests could enjoy, including the stunning Spa, conference facilities and private rooms available for hire. We left Jonathan for our table, famished after our journey and we were not disappointed. With exceptional service and a relaxing ambience, the food

After a long lie in with breakfast in our room, I ventured outside to view the fabulous Hartwell House from the surrounding fields. As I crunched through the snow, with camera in hand, I couldn’t imagine a more peaceful or heavenly place. With the distant giggling of a recently arrived wedding party echoing over the still perfect snow, I muttered to myself, ‘lucky buggers, I want to stay’, but it was time to go. Goodbye then to the intricately carved Jacobean figures standing to attention on the staircase, goodbye huge room with splendid views, goodbye Hartwell. ‘À tout à l’heure’ seems appropriate, seeing as Hartwell’s most famous resident was Louis XVIII, but I will leave the final word to Lord Byron, who, in 1814, questioned Louis XVIII’s departure for France to assume his throne, ‘Why wouldst thou leave calm Hartwell’s green abode….’ except to say, the Lord obviously didn’t see it under a blanket of snow. I’ll try it in green next time!

Contact details on page 102

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AMBASSADORS BLOOMSBURY

With its location a few moments walk from Euston Station and underground, on the Northern edge of Bloomsbury and a bus stop close by the front entrance, the 4* Ambassadors is well positioned as a springboard location for a stay in the capital. It’s within easy reach of the British Museum, Covent Garden and the West End, It’s within easy reach of the British Museum, Covent Garden and the West End, as B4’s Alison Ryde discovered with her husband, Simon. So what makes this London hotel any different

However, that space has everything to pass the test:

smooth, rather funky perspex which mirrors the

from the rest? After all, it has plenty of potential

spanking clean room, large bed, crisp sheets;

modern clean lines of the room.

rivals for your custom nearby.

Here’s why:

adjustable, responsive heating controls; a shower that

This building has recently had a £7 million

delivers a powerful jet; big warmed towels and there’s

IG1 is what could kindly be called a “fussy sleeper”: is

refurbishment, and has the spiffy new ‘modern

even a bit of luxury in the form of pampering toiletries,

the bed right? Pillow the perfect shape? Dark enough?

Italian’ restaurant ‘Number Twelve’ attached to it,

fresh fruit and flowers.

Quiet enough?

which is certainly making waves.

Once we had worked out the

energy-saving light system and sorted out the roll When my partner, IG1 (income generator no 1)

down blinds and the Venetian blinds, he slept like the

Constrained by the fact that it’s an old building, it has

despite considerable brain power, was unable to work

proverbial log. That’s the clincher, of course. Your

nevertheless transformed itself into a chic boutique

out how to turn on the shower, there was assistance at

hotel might boast more stars than the milky way, but

style hotel. Boutique could mean small here, as even

the door within moments (“turn the knob the other

if you don’t get a good night’s sleep, you may as well

the larger rooms are not particularly spacious.

way, sir”). The bathroom fittings are finished in a

stay at home. The Ambassadors ticks the boxes for

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B4 HOTELS

me. Give it a shot.

To start, a basket of warm, home baked breads and

Alas, I had to have it all. The creamy purée set off the

grissini. It would be easy to eat too much of this. A

delicate salmon very nicely. IG1’s fish cake was a

Should you eat at ‘Number Twelve’? After all, most

little appetiser arrived of creamy Swiss chard soup

little bland, sadly. If you can squeeze in dessert, it may

restaurants linked to hotels suffer the inescapable

with a crunchy fat crouton on top. Delicious. We

be worth loosening your belts. IG1 had liquorice

feeling of being temporarily pressed into service

had a glass of red Cabernet / Syrah Fortediga

crème brulée with celery sorbet, and my choice was

between morning offerings on hotplates, cereal

Maremma-Toscana 2005, at £6.25, which was full and

carrot cake, which was foolish, since one bite of the

choices and the standing juices for business travellers’

fruity and wonderful. IG1, who only drinks white, took

light cake was enough to remind me that I was already

breakfasts.

the Pinot Grigio 2007 which he was very happy with.

full up. The accompanying carrot sorbet was worth a

Did it go well with his starter of beetroot ravioli, white

try, but rather reminded me of health drinks.

It’s difficult to separate ‘Number Twelve’ from its hotel

butter sauce, blue poppy seeds and primo sale ricotta?

attachment – a distinct entrance would help – but it

Hard to say as neither lasted very long. I did snaffle a

Considering that partner claims to loathe celery, it was

certainly escapes the sense of ‘add-on conversion’.

bit before it disappeared, and I would never have

surprising that I only barely managed a tiny soupçon of

The design is modern but relaxing, with crisp white

guessed at the beetroot, happily for me, but the

a taste before the said sorbet vanished.

cloths, glittering cutlery and glassware, well-spaced

textures made that small taste memorable.

refreshing!

background. We were seated at one of three nicely

My own generous portion of egg pasta twists with

The chef here at ‘Number Twelve’ has some nifty new

secluded window tables, almost romantic…The

gorgonzola and radicchio were one of the tastiest

ideas based on what was evidently very fresh food,

service was attentive without being obsequious or

pastas I’ve ever had. The creamy saltiness of the

quite simply delivered. For a new Italian kid on the

crowding and tap water was delivered promptly and

cheese was set off by the crunchy texture of the

block, it’s certainly worth a visit. I would recommend

without snobbery.

radicchio and the slight bite of the pasta. I would have

it for a good evening’s dining, and make sure you go

stopped there if it had been lunchtime. For the sake

before it’s discovered by the ‘Bloomsbury set’ and puts

There are two menus, one for people in a hurry (one

of the reader, though, I forced myself on to Irish

up the prices…

hour), and à la carte. Descriptions are comprehensive

organic salmon on a cauliflower puree, with green

but free of fluff and waffle. The choice is extensive, but

beans and agro dolce romanesco (which turned out to

B4 would like to thank Alison and Simon for their

not suspiciously so. It is useful to know that salad of

be small, pale green, rather beautiful buds of broccoli

generous contribution to The Dragon School Sale as

winter leaves has walnuts, pork cheeks in grissini

from Rome). To add to IG1’s halibut and dill fish cake

part of writing this article.

crumb with mostardo de Cremona. Is it pretentious

with spinach and Italian pumpkin we had a prettily

not just to say mustard? Not if you get it from Cre-

presented plate of grilled vegetables and some

mona, evidently.

fantastically

Very

tables and quiet lighting. Jazz played quietly in the

potatoes.

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crunchy-outside,

soft-within

sauté Contact details on page 102

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news Oxford Inspires is the cultural development agency for Oxfordshire. We work with partners in business, local government, with Arts Council England, The University of Oxford and Oxford Brookes University to create new opportunities for arts and heritage organisations, nurture new festivals and spectacular events and to engage as many people as possible in exciting cultural experiences. We collaborate with cultural organisations across the county to support their ambitions, help them to reach a wider audience and to raise Oxfordshire’s profile as a cultural destination nationally and internationally.

Oxfordshire Science people attended scientific events. Plans are already being developed by Science Oxford and Oxford Inspires for an even larger celebration of the county's scientific achievements in 2010/11. The Seasons of Science (working title) programme will mix science and arts and give an unique insight into the business of science in Oxfordshire. The season will be seeking to work in partnership with the Universities and with science research establishments to create opportunities for artists’ residencies, collaborations with arts organisations and creative learning programmes with schools. The Centre is looking for the best and most effective ways to share the importance of science and the public is invited to be part of the experiment. For information visit www.scienceoxfordlive.com (see page 72).

Oxfordshire Science Festival 2009

In March 2009, Science Oxford Live proudly opened its newly renovated interactive space on St Clements where people are invited to get their hands and minds exploring the wonders of Science. The 2009 Oxfordshire Science Festival was built upon the success of the county's contribution to National Science Week 2008 in which over 6,000

Artist’s impression of Science Oxford Live

Economic Study Will Measure Culture’s Contribution to County’s Well-Being Research into the contribution of culture to the county’s economic prosperity is being commissioned by a partnership that includes: Oxford Inspires; Arts Council England, South East; Oxfordshire Economic Partnership; SEEDA; Cherwell District Council; Oxford City Council; South Oxfordshire District Council; Vale of the White Horse District Council; West Oxfordshire District Council; Oxfordshire County Council and Business Link. The research will identify the overall worth of the cultural economy and its knock-on benefits to other areas such as

tourism. The aim is to measure the size of the cultural sector and also to find out how it might grow in the future. In recent years, the creative and cultural industries have been among the fastest growing economic sectors and culture is known to be one of the main factors that influence visitors’ choice of travel to a particular city. Oxford Inspires Chief Executive Sarah Maxfield said: “Our vision is to promote an Oxfordshire which is internationally recognised as a leading city and

Oxford Inspires gives sincere thanks to its corporate members: B4 Magazine, Barceló Oxford Hotel, Berman Guedes Stretton, Blake Lapthorn, Blenheim Colour Ltd, Bicester Village, BMW Group Plant Oxford, CPM, carbon colour, The Corner Club, Four Pillars Hotels, Finders Keepers, First Great Western, Hook Norton Brewery, ImageWorks, Infineum,

www.b4-business.com

region for culture – and to ensure that culture is fully integrated into future planning for the county. In order to achieve this, we first need to review and better understand its contribution to the local economy.” Independent evaluation has already shown that cultural programmes such as Evolving City and Oxfordshire 2007, which were coordinated and marketed by Oxford Inspires on behalf of local organisations, contributed to the county’s economy by bringing in new funding, new visitors and additional business.

Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Lucy Properties, Oxford Bus Company, Oxford Castle, Richardsons, Torpedo and VSL & Partners. To learn more about how your business might help Oxford Inspires to support cultural activity across Oxfordshire, contact Kathelene Weiss at kathelene.weiss@oxfordinspires.org.

Contact details on page 102

101

Contacts If you want to contact B4 Magazine T: 01865 742211 E: info@b4-business.com Publisher B4 Magazine is published by Designs On Ltd, The Firs, Headington Hill, Oxford, OX3 0BT Chairman Colin Rosser E: colin@designs-on.co.uk Editor Richard Rosser E: editorial@b4-business.com Art Editor Keith Simpson E: artwork@b4-business.com Assistant Editor Katie Avis-Riordan Editorial contributors Sarah Wiseman Chris Baraniuk Kimberley Manning Proofreading Shani Farrant Advertising E: sales@b4-business.com Administration Sue Edwardson E: admin@b4-business.com Studio Photography Studio 8 T: 01865 842525 Field Photography Quentin Wiles T: 01865 742211 B4 Partners Apartments in Oxford B-Line Buildbase Conference Centre Oxford Darbys Direction Marketing Services Oxford Innovation Ltd Oxford Airport Oxford Castle Oxford Inspires Oxford Radcliffe Private Healthcare Oxfordshire Town Chambers Network VSL and Partners Wenn Townsend Withy King Subscriptions For free Subscription, please contact: T: 01865 742211 E: info@b4-business.com Each business with an Oxfordshire postcode is entitled to one free copy per issue. For additional copies and for businesses outside of Oxfordshire, there is an annual subscription charge of £25.

1. Advice

Conference and Meetings

Professional

Accountants

Conference Venues

Wenn Townsend 28 Contact Name: Tony Haines E-mail: aehaines@wenntownsend.co.uk Telephone: 01865 559900 Address: 30 St Giles, Oxford, OX1 3LE Website: www.wenntownsend.co.uk

Conference Centre Oxford 52 54 56 Contact Name: Pamela Parker E-mail: pamela@oxstay.co.uk Telephone: 01865 254075 Address: Cantay House, Park End Street, Oxford, OX1 1JD

Customers Really Matter 50 Contact Name: James White E-mail: james.white@yourcrm.co.uk Telephone: 0845 310 9973 Website: www.customersreallymatter.co.uk

Information: Chartered accountants and tax advisors with particular expertise in owner managed business. Offices in Oxford, Abingdon and Cirencester.

Information: Oxford’s premier conference centre, at the heart of the City with first class services and facilities to ensure that your event runs smoothly and professionally.

Shaw Gibbs LLP 27 Contact Name: Peter O’Connell Telephone: 01865 292200 Address: 264 Banbury Road, Oxford, OX2 7DY Website: www.shawgibbs.com

Barceló Oxford Hotel 12 Contact Name: Cormac O’Hara E-mail: oxford.gm@barcelo-hotels.co.uk Telephone: 01865 489988 Address: Godstow Road, Oxford. OX2 8AL Website: www.barcelo-hotels.co.uk

Inca 87 Contact Name: Graham Carson E-mail: GCarson@incauk.biz Telephone: 0845 644 3579 Address: 9 Blenheim Way, Southmoor, Oxon, OX13 5NQ Website: www.incauk.biz Information: Inca is a specialist small business accountant and bookkeeper. Inca is affordable, approachable and reliable. It’s called caring accounting.

Solicitors Darbys 16 68 Contact Name: Ema Murphy E-mail: emurphy@darbys.co.uk Telephone: 01865 811700 Address: 52 New Inn Hall Street, Oxford, OX1 2DN Website: www.darbys.co.uk Information: One of the largest law firms in the region, Darbys specialist departments deliver legal services to businesses and their owners in some unique ways. Withy King 36 51 Contact Name: Chris Kane E-mail: enquiries@withyking.co.uk Telephone: 01865 792300 Address: North Bailey House, New Inn Hall Street, Oxford. OX1 2EA Website: www.withyking.co.uk Information: Withy King is a full service legal firm offering a comprehensive range of both private client and commercial services..

Business Support and Regulation Government Organisations

Distribution Direction Marketing Services Ltd 01235 510932 www.directionmarketing.co.uk

Revenue and Customs Employers Helpline: 08457 143 143 Newly Self-Employed Helpline: 0845 915 1545 Online Services Helpdesk: 0845 60 55 999

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4. Compute

Professional

26 Key Page reference:

© Designs-on Ltd and B4 Magazine. Whilst every attempt has been made to ensure that the content of this publication is accurate and correct in every way, the publishers cannot be held responsible or liable for any inaccuracies or errors within the publication. Information reproduced from this publication is permitted with the express permission of the publisher and the advertiser, where relevant. All information is correct at time of going to press.

2. Meet

Business Link 95 Telephone: 0845 600 900 6 Website: www.businesslink.gov.uk/southeast

Information: Modern, dedicated conference centre within the 4star Barceló Oxford Hotel for up to 320 delegates. Free parking Adjacent A34, city centre 2miles. St Hugh’s College 20 Contact Name: Sarah Cooper E-mail: sarah.cooper@st-hughs.ox.ac.uk Telephone: 01865 274424 Address: St Hugh's College, St Margaret’s Road, Oxford. OX2 6LE Website: www.st-hughs.ox.ac.uk/conferences Information: First class conference and event facilities in a traditional Oxford College setting, with beautiful grounds in the heart of North Oxford. Egrove Park 7 Contact Name: Jill Grieveson E-mail: conference.egrove@sbs.ox.ac.uk Telephone: 01865 422757 Address: Saïd Business School, Executive Education Centre, Egrove Park, Oxford, OX1 5NY Website: www.sbs.oxford.edu/conferencing Information: Egrove Park is Saïd Business School’s purpose-built Executive Education Centre - first class conference facilities only two miles from Oxford city centre. The Oxford Belfry 105 Contact Name: Jonathan Read, Sales Manager Telephone: 01844 279381 Address: Milton Common, Nr Thame, Oxfordshire. OX9 2JW Website: www.qhotels.co.uk Information: The Oxford Belfry sits just south of Oxford, near the picturesque market town of Thame, amidst 17 glorious acres of countryside.

3. Recruitment Allen Associates (Oxford) Ltd 8 Contact Name: Kate Allen FREC E-mail: Kate@allen-associates.co.uk Telephone: 01865 481459 Address: 7200 The Quorum, Oxford Business Park North, Oxford. OX4 2JZ Website: www.allen-associates.co.uk

Sci-Net Business Solutions 22 Contact Name: Duncan Fergusson E-mail: duncanf@sci-net.co.uk Telephone: 01869 349 949 Address: 5 Lakeside Farm Park, Middle Aston, Bicester, Oxford. OX25 5PP Website: www.sci-net.co.uk Information: Sci-Net is a leading Sage and Microsoft Partner and has been specialising in implementing and supporting Accounting, Finance & Enterprise Business Solutions (ERP) for over 18 years. Sophos 45 Contact Name: Sophos Sales Team E-mail: sales@sophos.com Telephone: 01235 559933 Address: The Pentagon, Abingdon Science Park, Barton Lane, Abingdon, Oxfordshire. OX14 3YP Website: www.sophos.com Information: Sophos is a world leader in information and data security, protecting businesses from viruses, spyware, data loss and non-compliance. Get Support 60 94 Contact Name: James Craddock E-mail: info@getsupport.co.uk Telephone: 01865 594000 Address: Unit 6, The Boundary Business Park, Wheatley Road, Garsington. OX44 9EJ Website: www.getsupport.co.uk Information: Get Support provide a full range for Computer Services designed for small businesses. Computer Consultancy, Day-to-Day Technical Support, Hardware Sales & Web Development. Agnito UK Ltd 26 Contact Name: Thomas Jenkinson E-mail: info@agnitouk.com Telephone: 0870 458 2151 Address: 7200 The Quorum, Oxford Business Park North, Garsington Road, Oxford. OX4 2JZ Website: www.agnitouk.com Information: When we plan and design your IT infrastructure, we ensure that scalability is core to the design and that the solutions we recommend are flexible to grow with your business requirements..

Web Services SureFire Digital Contact Name: Rob Jones E-mail: info@surefiredigital.co.uk Telephone: 07815 143878 or 020 3239 8055 Address: 43 Otters Reach, Kennington, Oxford, Oxfordshire. OX1 5QL Website: www.surefiredigital.co.uk Information: SureFire is a digital marketing consultancy, blending creativity with digital marketing expertise.

Information: Allen Associates is an independent recruitment consultancy. Our commitment to quality results in a high rate of satisfaction from clients and candidates.

www.b4-business.com

B4 Contacts Nominet 61 Contact Name: Phil Kingsland E-mail: nominet@nominet.org.uk Telephone: 01865 332211 Address: Minerva House, Edmund Halley Road, Oxford Science Park, Oxford, OX4 4DQ Website: www.nominet.org.uk Information: Nominet is the Internet registry for .uk domain names, and provides a safe, stable and reliable .uk namespace.

5. Office

Short Stay Accommodation Apartments In Oxford 2 Contact Name: Mark Iles E-mail: based@oxstay.co.uk Telephone: 01865 254000 Address: St Thomas Mews, 58 St Thomas Street, Oxford, OX1 1JP Website: www.oxstay.co.uk Information: Luxury self-catering accommodation in Oxford, fully serviced to a high standard. For overnight, short or long stays in Oxford's City Centre.

Office Supplies

7. Property

B-Line 88 Contact Name: Kay Thomas E-mail: kay@b-line.co.uk Telephone: 08701 633340 Address: The Green Hangar, Horton Road, Stanton St John, Oxford, OX33 1AG Website: www.b-line.co.uk

Professional Services

Information: There are many reasons to choose B-line as your preferred stationary, print and furniture supplier as we are totally committed to product quality, reliability, combined with a professional approach.

VSL 14 15 32 Contact Name: Richard Venables E-mail: rvenables@vslandp.com Telephone: 01865 848488 Address: 22 Bankside, Kidlington, Oxford. OX5 1JE Website: www.vslandp.com

Document Storage Ardington Archives 24 Contact Name: Janet Gibbons E-mail: janet@ardingtonarchives.co.uk Telephone: 01367 718710 Address: White Horse Business Park, Stanford in the Vale, Oxfordshire. SN7 8NY Website: www.ardingtonarchives.co.uk Information: Premium Level Document Storage: We don't just store boxes, we manage your document storage needs over the long term.

6. Stay Hotels Barceló Oxford Hotel 12 Contact: Reservations Team E-mail: oxford.reservations@barcelo-hotels.co.uk Telephone: 01865 489988 Address: Godstow Road, Oxford. OX2 8AL Website: www.barcelo-hotels.co.uk Information: Adjacent A34 & A40 with extensive conference facilities and free parking. A stylish, modern 4* hotel just 2 miles from the city centre. Macdonald Randolph Hotel 78 Contact: Michael Grange E-mail: enquiries.randolph@macdonaldhotels.co.uk Telephone: 01865 256400 Address: Beaumont Street, Oxford. OX1 2LN. Website: www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/randolph Information: The Randolph Hotel is one of Oxford’s most prestigious hotels, with restaurant, spa and conference facilities to complement this excellent first class hotel. Oxford Hotel and Guest House 83 Association Contact Name: Stefan Wynne-Jones E-mail: stay@tilburylodge.com Telephone: 01865 862138 Website: www.stayoxford.co.uk The Oxford Belfry See conference venues

www.b4-business.com

Commercial Property

Information: VSL are commercial property consultants specializing in the Oxfordshire area advising on agency/ landlord and tenant/ rating and investment work. Eastpoint 32 For more information on the Eastpoint Development please contact: Julian Cooper - Clarendon Enterprise Centre Telephone: 07968 154471 Mike Mansell - Frontier Telephone: 07715 754038 Richard Venables - VSL Telephone: 07816 491 860

Letting Agents North Oxford Property Services 40 Contact Name: Robin Swailes E-mail: post@nops.co.uk Telephone: 01865 311745 Address: 47 Walton Street, Oxford. OX2 6AD Website: www.nops.co.uk Information:The majority of our rental properties are located in the Oxford city centre within a mile radius. Our friendly staff offer a professional letting service for Landlords and Tenants.

Estate Agents Pink and Black Property 34 E-mail: info@pinkandblackproperty.com Telephone: 01865 515919 Address: 14 Oakthorpe Rd, Summertown, OX2 7BE Website: www.pinkandblackproperty.com Information: Pink & Black Property Consultants is a dynamic, fresh thinking and independent Oxford-based agency, offering a full range of property related services across Oxfordshire and beyond.

facechart 84 Contact Name: David Beesley E-mail: smile@facechart.co.uk Telephone: 0870 4286882 Address: The Green Hangar, Horton Road, Stanton St John, Oxford. OX33 1AG Website: www.facechart.co.uk

Property Services and Materials Builders Merchants Johnsons Buildbase 66 100 Contact Name: Mike Augar (Heavyside) Craig Tarrant (Lightside) Telephone: 01865 787700 E-mail: mike.augar@buildbase.co.uk craig.tarrant@buildbase.co.uk Address: Watlington Road, Cowley, Oxford, OX4 6LN Website: www.buildbase.co.uk

Photography and Duplication

Information: We offer a wide range of building materials, timber, landscaping, hire, plumbing, kitchens, bathrooms, tiles, flooring & decorative items.

8. Market

Studio 8 86 Contact Name: Clark Wiseman E-mail: info@studio-8.co.uk Telephone: 01865 842525 Address: 8 Oxford Road, Kidlington, Oxford, OX5 1AA Website: www.studio-8.co.uk Information: Studio8 is about making photography fun! Whether its a high energy portrait session, a classic wedding or a commercial project - studio8 have the skills to capture the images you want.

Design & Marketing Business Club

Blink Design 64 Contact: Keith Simpson E-mail: studio@on-the-blink.com Telephone: 01865 742211 Address: The Firs, Headington Hill, Oxford. OX3 0BT.

The Oxford Wealth Club 18 Contact Name: Angela Beaugeard E-mail: oxfordwealthclub@paul-avins.com Telephone: 01869 278900 Website: www.oxfordwealthclub.co.uk

Information: Whether you are looking for a new identity or a suite of professionally produced corporate literature, Blink Design are able to provide a solution for you. Web design and maintenance also now available.

9. Learn

Oxford Inspires 48 101 Contact Name: Kathelene Weiss E-mail: info@oxfordinspires.org Telephone: 01865 815525 Address: Central Library, Westgate, Oxford, OX1 1DJ. Website: www.oxfordinspires.org Information: Oxford Inspires is the cultural development agency for Oxfordshire. We create new opportunities for arts and heritage organisations, nurture new festivals and spectacular events and work to engage as many people as possible in exciting and enjoyable cultural experiences, raising Oxfordshire's profile as a cultural destination within the UK and internationally Direction Marketing Services Ltd Contact Name: David Hart E-mail: David@directionmarketing.co.uk Telephone: 01235 510932 website: www.directionmarketing.co.uk

Information: The Oxford Wealth Club is a unique club, structured to help grow your wealth network, business skills and profits through world class training every fortnight.

107

The Oxfordshire Town Chambers 23 Network Contact Name: Ian Nicholson E-mail: enquiries@otcn.co.uk Website: www.otcn.co.uk Information: The Oxfordshire Town Chambers Network (OTCN) is a communications network for town chambers and other similar business groups across Oxfordshire. AWM Marketing Contact Name: Alun Williams E-mail: alun@awm-marketing.com Telephone: 01367 244996 Address: 24 Berners Way, Faringdon, Oxfordshire. SN7 7NP Website: www.awm-marketing.com Information: Retained Brand Marketing//strategic thinking through to market implementation without the overhead.

Oxford Innovation 35 Telephone: 01235 838555 Address: Harwell Innovation Centre, 173 Curie Avenue, Harwell Science & Innovation Centre, Didcot, Oxfordshire. OX11 0QG Website: www.oxin.co.uk

10. Play Days Out / Attractions / Events Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens 62 Contact Name: General Office E-mail: feedback@cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk Telephone: 01993 823006 Address: Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens, Burford, Oxon OX18 4JP Website: www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk Information: One of Oxfordshire's top attractions with more than 250 species of animals in 160 acres of landscaped parkland and gardens. Oxford Castle 42 44 Contact Name: Jean-Pierre Morilleau E-mail: jp.morilleau@topgroup.co.uk Telephone: 01865 201657 Address: The Treadwheel, 43 Oxford Castle, Oxford. OX1 1AY Website: www.oxfordcastle.com Science Oxford 72 Contact Name: Anne Lechelle E-mail: anne.lechelle@scienceoxford.com Telephone: 01865 728953 Address: 1-5 London Place, Oxford. OX4 1BD Website: www.scienceoxford.com

103

B4 Contacts Bodleian Library 75 Contact Name: Ms Anna Staszewska E-mail: tours@bodley.ox.ac.uk Telephone: 01865 277224 Address: Oxford University Library Services, Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3BGD Website: www.shop.bodley.ox.ac.uk

Studley Wood Golf Club 107 Contact Name: Ken Heathcote (General Manager) E-mail: admin@studleywoodgolfclub.co.uk Telephone: 01865 351122 Address: The Straight Mile, Horton-Cum-Studley, Oxford. OX33 1BF Website: www.studleywoodgolfclub.co.uk

Information: The Bodleian Library offers access to exhibitions, gift shop, guided tours, as well as location and evening venue hire.

Information: Set in 177 acres of beautiful, tranquil Oxfordshire countryside, only 6 miles from the centre of Oxford, this is a hidden gem.

Corporate Entertainment

Health Clubs and Spas

CSM Ltd 6 Contact Name: Charlie Allen E-mail: callen@csmltd.org Telephone: 01451 812277 Address: Cotswold Innovation Centre, 42 A P Ellis Rd, Rissington Business Park, Upper Rissington, GL54 2QB Website: www.csmltd.org

Bourton Mill 92 Contact Name: Gavin Peck Email: gavin@bourtonmill.net Telephone: 01865 251261 Address: 6-7 High Street, Oxford.OX1 4AB Website: www.bourtonmill.net

Information: For deep expertise in sponsorship management, corporate hospitality planning, event management, sports plus all other ticket needs contact us now

Retail Lacys 58 Contact Name: Debbie Rosser E-mail: enquiries@lacysoxford.co.uk Telephone: 01865 552094 Address: 29 Little Clarendon Street, Oxford., OX1 2HU Website: www.lacysoxford.co.uk Information: Established over twenty years, Lacy’s is one of Oxford’s leading lady’s boutiques offering a wide range of labels from leading designers. The Cake Shop 67 Contact Name: Sally Davis E-mail: enquiries@the-cake-shop.co.uk Telephone: 01865 248 691 Address: 123-127 Avenue 4, The Covered Market, Oxford. OX1 3DZ Website: www.the-cakeshop.co.uk Information: The Cake Shop specialises in creating great tasting and fantastic looking celebration cakes for all occasions including weddings, birthdays, christenings and corporate events.

Golf Clubs Magnolia Golf Club 76 Contact Name: Derwynne Honan E-mail: manager@magnoliapark.co.uk Telephone: 01844 239700 Address: Arncott Road, Boarstall, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire. HP18 9XX Website: www.magnoliapark.co.uk The Oxfordshire Golf Club 80 Contact Name: Jennifer Daniels E-mail: jennifer@theoxfordshiregolfclub.com Telephone: 01844 278300 Address: Rycote Lane, Milton Common, Thame, OX9 2PU Website: www.theoxfordshiregolfclub.com

Cocktail Bars The House 90 Contact Name: Julian Rosser Email: info@housebar.co.uk Telephone: 01865 724433 Address: Blue Boar Street, Oxford. OX1 4EE Website: www.housebar.co.uk Information: The House is also available for hire, for meetings, parties or events. Catering is also available. In the summer, The House terrace will open for business.

Restaurants The Rose 39 Contact Name: Marrianne Bruel Telephone: 01865 244429 Address: 51 High Street, Oxford. OX1 4AS Website: www.the-rose.biz Information: If you need a sanctuary in the heat of Oxford, somewhere to get away from the hustle and bustle, somewhere to unwind, switch off and enjoy food prepared with passion.

Chiltern Railways 38 Telephone: 08456 005 165 Website: www.chilternrailways.co.uk Information: Welcome to Chiltern Railways winner of 'Passenger Operator of the Year' at the 2007 National Rail Awards and winner of 'Innovative Transport Project of 2008' at the London Transport Awards for our innovation in text ticketing.

13. Health Oxford Radcliffe Private Healthcare 31 46 Telephone: 01865 221146 Website: www.oxfordradcliffe.nhs.uk/ privatehealthcare

14. Home Interiors Jill Treloggen Interiors Contact Name: Jill Treloggen E-mail: info@jilltreloggen.co.uk Telephone: 01993 700515 Address: The Coach House, 10 Millins Yard, 99b High Street, Witney, Oxon. OX28 6HY Website: www.jilltreloggen.co.uk Information: We work in many areas of the residential market, and pride ourselves on delivering fresh ideas to our clients that will achieve the results they wish for.

15. Beyond Hotels UK

Charitable Organisations

Hartwell House & Spa 96 Contact Name: Mr Jonathan Thompson E-mail: cajt@hartwell-house.com Telephone: 01296 747444 Address: Historic House Hotels Ltd, Oxford Road, Near Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP17 8NR Website: www.hartwell-house.com

Oxford Radcliffe Hospitals 71 Charitable Funds Contact Name: Susannah Maxa E-mail: campaign@orh.nhs.uk Telephone: 01865 743444 Website: www.orhcharitablefunds.nhs.uk

Ambassadors Bloomsbury 98 E-mail: reservations@ambassadors.co.uk Telephone: 0207 6935400 Address: 12 Upper Woburn Place, London, WC1H 0HX Website: www.ambassadors.co.uk

11. Give

Information: Donations to Charitable Funds improve the facilities and environment for patients at the John Radcliffe, Churchill and Horton hospitals.

12. Travel Air Oxford Airport 10 Contact Name: James Dillon-Godfray E-mail: info@oxfordairport.co.uk Telephone: 01865 290 710 Address: Langford Lane, Kidlington, Oxford, OX5 1RA Website: www.oxfordairport.co.uk Information: Oxfordshire’s only airport and the only commercial airport between Heathrow and Birmingham International. Provides a number of air services for both private and business use.

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Public Transport

If you wish to list your business on this page, the charge is £75+VAT for a basic listing and £100+VAT for a listing including explanation of the business. The rate includes presence in 4 issues of B4. B4 Is Designed by

E-mail: studio@on-the-blink.com Telephone: 01865 742211

ates

£69

24 hr r M

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hotbeds of business brilliance

112 minis ﬁt comfortably into the vast College Suite 19th century beauty meets 21st century brilliance 6 easy minutes from the M40 4 stars for outstanding service

One of a kind The newly refurbished Oxford Belfry hotel is the ideal venue for training, team meetings, meeting suppliers, conferences and team building exercises. It is a place where your staff can get away from the hustle and bustle of work and beneﬁt from time to think. The hotel is located just off J7/8a of the M40 close to Oxford, with all it’s amenities in beautiful rolling countryside. It is ideal for access to the south east, halfway between London and Birmingham so it’s perfect for regional meetings with your peers. Bedroom rates from £69 including service,VAT and full English breakfast. Conference day delegate rates from £29 per person per day including 3 servings of tea/coffee, room hire for the main room and a 2 course hot/cold buffet lunch. Rates subject to availability.

For more information please call 01844 279381, email oxfordbelfryevents@QHotels.co.uk or visit www.QHotels.co.uk The Oxford Belfry Thame, Oxford

Hotel Group of the Year 2008 - 2009

University of Oxford • Conferences • Day meetings • Corporate hospitality • En suite accommodation • Beautiful buildings and gardens

We look forward to welcoming you soon For further information please contact Gemma Sedgwick, Conference & Events Manager Tel: 01865 274320 or email conferences@lmh.ox.ac.uk

T H E

B E S T

I N

OX F O R D I n fo r m ati o n Pa c ks for your B us iness Vis itor s Impress your customers, visiting members of staff and other guests with The Best In Oxford guide. Combine this with The Oxford Map and you have the perfect pack of information for your visitors. With over 15,000 visitor packs distributed to University of Oxford conference departments for visiting delegates and a growing number of Oxfordshire businesses placing orders for 2009, make sure you reserve your copies.

Call 01865 742211 to ask for a sample pack or place your order now No minimum orders, although discounts apply for bulk orders.

Experience one of Oxfordshire’s Best Kept Golfing Secrets Just off Junction 9 of the M40 and 6 miles from the centre of Oxford

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OFFERS RING US ON

01865 351144

The Straight Mile, Horton-cum-Studley, Oxon OX33 1BF. TEL: 01865 351144 FAX: 01865 351166

www.studleywoodgolfclub.co.uk

CLASSIC BANGLADESHI I N D I A N C U I S I N E

“Outsourcing solutions from a single source” We offer a range of services to solve your business headaches, so you can spend time on what you do best: growing your business. If you are looking to outsource your order fulfilment and the storage & distribution of your goods, then Direction Marketing Services is the perfect solution. We can support your business with our UK bonded warehouse, pick, pack & despatch and contract packing services. Our mailing and response handling expertise allows us to provide the complete direct mail solution for our customers. With our knowledgeable, customer led approach and attention to detail, our aim is to be an extension of your business, the perfect partner who delivers on time, every time.

Direction Marketing Services – putting the client first To find out more, call us on 01235 510 932 or email us at enquiries@directionmarketing.co.uk.

Oxford’s leading curry house, part of the fabric of Oxford for over 20 years 228-230 COWLEY RD, OXFORD OX4 1UH Tel: 01865 794945 Fax: 01865 794956 Open 7 days a week including Bank & Christmas Holidays Also at: AZIZ PANDESIA: 1 FOLLY BRIDGE, OXFORD, OX1 4LB. Tel: 01865 247775 Short-listed as Best Newcomer British Curry Awards 2007

www.aziz.uk.com

Email:manager@aziz.uk.com

For our full list of services visit our website at www.directionmarketing.co.uk.