TopicUK business magazine August 2022 Edition

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Contents

This issue Group Editor Gill Laidler

Design

Rob Blackwell

Associate editor Ed Asquith

To Partner TopicUK

Tel: 07711 539047 editor@topicuk.co.uk

Distribution Manager James Longbottom

Official Photographers

Roth Read Photography

Legal Matters

The views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those held by the publishers and therefore, no responsibility can be held by the publisher for misinterpretation. Reproduction of this magazine without the express permission of the publisher is prohibited. Whilst every care is taken in the production of this magazine, the publisher/editor and staff cannot accept any responsibility for errors in articles, advertisements or programme schedules. To subscribe to this magazine contact 07711 539047 or email editor@topicuk.co.uk. Published by Ghost Publishing Limited, . Law pages are written by Chadwick Lawrence & Ramsdens Solicitors LLP and TopicUK is not responsible for any advice given.

Ramsdens Solicitors Chadwick Lawrence

Recruitment Stafflex

ADMINISTRATOR

Charlotte Hall

Cover : Andrew Barton Image : Andrew's own

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Redmayne Bentley chooses Wellington Place

page

Packaging specialist invests in growth

page

60 more stores for bathroom firm

page

From royal palaces to movie sets Why the Government needs an apprentice army

Printed By: Charlesworth Press Wakefield

page page

18 30 52 58 64

Editors notes

By group editor Gill Laidler

Welcome to this edition of TopicUK magazine where we are delighted to feature hairstylist to the stars Andrew Barton on our cover.

OUR PARTNERS • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Yorkshire sculpture park CONNECT YORKSHIRE Community Foundation Calderdale The Piece Hall BACKSTAGE ACADEMY Ramsdens Solicitors Chadwick Lawrence WILD PR Wakefield Council Ad:Venture CityFibre Eaton Smith Solicitors Stafflex Scriba PR Kirklees College University of Law Avenue hq/Barclays Eagle Lab BeVic Town Hall Dental Fantastic Media FORGET ME NOT CHILDRENS HOSPICE Halifax Bid HALSTON MARKETING DAKOTA HOTEL LEEDS Kirklees Council CRAGGS ENERGY

Growing up in Barnsley Andrew’s career has taken him all over the world from celebrity homes to royal palaces but nothing makes him happier than when he is relaxing at home with his partner and dog Ruby Beagle. Returning to Yorkshire this Autumn, Andrew is launching ‘Beehives, Bobs and Blowdries at the iconic The Piece Hall, a celebration of hairstyles and fashion over the years, before taking it on tour across the UK. You can read the full story on page 58.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our partners who continue to work with us. These are forward thinking businesses and we are delighted that we have the opportunity to promote them, not just in the magazine but across our social media channels.

I was lucky enough to have an overnight stay at the beautiful Grantley Hall recently, where we are holding a sell-out Yorkshire Businesswoman networking, afternoon tea and fashion show in September, where we will also be joined by Andrew offering styling tips. You can read about my stay on page 84. Grantley Hall seems to be in a lot of our news at the moment as we will return again in December for the Glamour Rocks fashion preview sponsored by our sister publication Yorkshire Businesswoman (see page 82) and the launch of Yorkshire Children’s Charity will also officially launch there on 4 November.

Enjoy the summer

I know many businesses are already on holiday. I would like to wish those taking a break, a wonderful rest and look forward to catching up with everyone again at the end of August.

Gill

This edition is packed with business news and features and as we are now fully digital, we are working on a fully interactive edition coming to you in the Autumn, as well as our brand new app, making sure that you have all the news at your fingertips and with just one click.

TopicUK August 2022

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Bee Brand Designs on start-up West Yorkshire support!

Bee Brand Designs offers a solution to sustainable interior and furniture design. Providing unique, bespoke design and build services, using reclaimed materials finished with non-toxic water-based finishes. Clients are taken through a creative process to help re-imagine existing interior assets to provide them with new unique products.

Bee Brand designs was founded by Ashleigh Barnes at the beginning of lock-down in 2020. Awaiting redundancy whilst on furlough in 2020 provided the opportunity to realise her dream.

After seeing a lot of materials wasted during production in her previous roles Ashleigh decided to put her design skills and energy into something that would make a difference, using those materials to create something new.

The Challenge Ashleigh had already secured premises and a fully functioning workshop, with a product range of 13 different pieces and 3 different arrangements of set pieces. Her objectives when joining Start-Up West Yorkshire were to enhance her business, improve business knowledge, build confidence and make new connections.

Ashleigh said: “I needed to learn more about how to expand and particularly in which areas to expand. I needed guidance to assess my path and think more long term. My direction for the business is developing and I am putting the steppingstones down to reach my new goals.

I felt a bit lost and unsure of what my next steps were, I needed support to build my confidence and knowledge in business and to figure out how to connect with people in order to generate leads.

Our focus was to gain connections within the construction industry to tackle waste materials head on and reuse instead of downcycling to improve environmental impact on wider scale.”

Based in Dewsbury, Bee Brand Designs sells to all types of businesses and customers looking to improve their carbon footprint and interior design.

Creating unique furniture, lighting and interior design solutions with products

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that are as sustainable as possible, working with interior designers to provide immersive interior displays, utilising their distinctive style and use of reclaimed materials.

The results Ashleigh let us know how her business changed since her time on the programme:

confidence and navigation in business.

I have found my Start Up Managers knowledge crucial to my growth and her perspective is very inspiring.

It has been a very positive and uplifting experience.

“The business direction has changed but company morals are still the same.

I have seen an increase in bespoke sales and my current flow of consumer-based products are steady and manageable, ready for me to turn up the volume. I feel more in control.

“I enjoyed the optimism and encouragement; I found my whole experience useful in terms of personal

I needed support and that’s exactly what I received. Tracy is an excellent mentor, she is personable, relatable, and really cares about helping me and my business grow. We share common grounds, and she has a wealth of experience and knowledge. If I have a question, she is always there to send me resources and provide me with answers. Our two weekly chats really help me to stay on track and focus on my next steps.

Its saved me hours and hours of research and I know that I am getting trustworthy information from this programme.

Ashleigh’s advice to anyone thinking about joining Start-Up West Yorkshire: “Do it! You have everything to gain and nothing to lose”

Find out more about our s u p p o r t a t h t t p s : / / w w w. ad-venture.org.uk/

I am just very grateful that the support programme exists and empowers those who want to drive their ambitions into market.

TopicUK August 2022

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STEPS Prosthetics launches Knight Frank brokers letting inatSheffield The Bourse in Leeds Peter and I are very excited to launch STEPS Prosthetics and continue our work supporting those who have sustained traumatic lifechanging injuries...

A specialist prosthetics and orthotics company, STEPS Prosthetics, has launched in Sheffield. Founders Colette Shaw and Peter Durkin have partnered with the awardwinning STEPS Rehabilitation facility, to become the only UK prosthetics company to design, manufacture, fit and support amputee clients within a residential rehabilitation setting.

STEPS Prosthetics combines science, craftsmanship and compassion to deliver bespoke, cutting-edge prosthetic and orthotic solutions for individuals with life-changing injuries following a catastrophic accident. A specialist on-site workshop means clients can benefit from swift provision and adjustment of their prosthetic or orthotic device. This highly individualised service improves engagement and outcomes for clients.

Colette has over 20 years’ experience in the prosthetics industry, having

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worked in clinical practice for 15 years in addition to prosthetic product development and marketing with Steeper and Blatchford. As a highly skilled prosthetist, she works with world-leading products and is experienced in fitting the latest prosthetic products, including microprocessor and po we red devices, for both upper and lower limb amputees. Colette is also an experienced prosthetic expert witness, preparing medico-legal reports for both claimant and defendant solicitors.

Peter is specialist dual practicing prosthetist/orthotist with over 10 years’ clinical experience in adult and paediatric prosthetic and orthotic rehabilitation in both hospital and community clinics. His technical skills enable him to ensure clients are well-informed about the options when considering component choice or product design. Peter also offers medico-legal expert advice within both prosthetics and orthotics. He is happy to accept instructions on behalf of the claimant or defendant, offering the same exacting standard across all areas.

Colette said: “Peter and I are very excited to launch STEPS Prosthetics and continue our work supporting those who have sustained traumatic life-changing injuries. Our clients typically have complex rehabilitation needs that require more than just a prosthesis or orthosis. By working in collaboration with one of the UK’s leading rehabilitation facilities, we can take a genuinely holistic approach to treatment, by being part of a wider team that delivers a comprehensive rehab programme that’s tailored to the individual client.”

Piece Hall marks fifth anniversary with recordbreaking figures

The Piece Hall is marking the fifth anniversary of its 2017 re-opening following a multi-million-pound refurbishment with the news that the venue has now welcomed over 10 million visitors (10,500,300) despite being affected for over a year of this by lockdowns and restrictions due to Over the past five years, this unique visitor attraction has welcomed hundreds of thousands of people to its makers markets and more than 140,000 music fans to its live shows, with almost 60,000 people attending Live at The Piece Hall 2022 alone.

doorstep. Unlike many other heritage attractions, The Piece Hall is, and will remain, proudly free to enter.”

Chair of The Piece Hall Trust, Sir Roger Marsh OBE DL, said: “These results are testament to the hard work of Nicky and the team and proof that heritage can successfully be used as the currency of the future, bringing big benefits regionally and nationally.

Taking lockdown into account, The Piece Hall is averaging 3 million visitors a year.

said: “We are all so proud of what we’ve achieved in the last five years, in some incredibly challenging circumstances.

Global pandemics seemed like the stuff of Hollywood movies when our beautiful building reopened in 2017 and who could have imagined what we have all lived through since then. But Offering a safe, free-to-enter space we’ve survived and are now beginning “It’s been incredibly satisfying to watch to support community and visitor to thrive with the return of world-class the vision for the transformation of wellbeing, The Piece Hall has arts and music events and we’ve even The Piece Hall become a reality and entertained and engaged with more welcomed some genuine Hollywood to observe the tremendous sense of renewed pride in the area that than 26,000 children and adults with stars this year! this has created. arts, craft and community workshops and worked with almost 4,500 school “I know just how precious this building children on various heritage projects. is to the people of Halifax and I’m “The Piece Hall will continue to play The Piece Hall’s dedicated volunteers honoured to be entrusted with its care. a role in regeneration and these have also given-up a massive total of My aim has always been to show we can solid foundations mean it can carry 11,500 hours of their time to help support respect and protect this iconic heritage on supporting local people and the the smooth running of the venue and site, by keeping it vibrant, contemporary local economy while enabling us to enrich the customer experience. and full of life and pushing it into the preserve and protect this precious spotlight so all the world can see international asset which just happens CEO Nicky Chance-Thompson DL what we’re lucky to have right on our to be in Halifax.”

James Heal Celebrates 150 Years with Week-long Event A year of celebration continued at James Heal last week as a series of events were held to mark their 150th anniversary, with the attendance of sales partners from almost every continent making it a truly international occasion.

Established in 1872, Halifax-based James Heal design and manufacture textile testing instruments, which are sold, directly from the UK, Germany and USA, and through sales channel partners around the world. The brand became part of the wider PPT Group in 2014, with sister brands each focusing on testing many aspects of materials and products.

Sales channel partners (SCPs) began arriving early in the week along with staff from their German and US offices, visiting the factory to meet the team, see the textile testing instruments and test materials being manufactured, and to undergo training from James Heal’s Technical Specialists.

The visitors participated in a full day conference at Cedar Court Hotel in

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Left: Neil Pryke receiving his long service award from John Page, PPT Group MD Above: Pictured from left to right Declan Tierney, PPT Group Sales Director, John Page, PPT Group MD with Neil Pryke, PPT Group UK MD

the invention of Lycra, and ending with the future possibilities presented by smart textiles.

Huddersfield on Thursday, where two new James Heal instruments AirPro and HydroView were demonstrated for testing air permeability and hydrostatic head, plus sessions on new and existing product development took place.

The week culminated in a party attended by members of staff, partners, customers and representatives of industry associations held fittingly at The Venue at Bowers Mill, a former woollen mill in Barkisland. After dinner PPT Group UK MD, Neil Pryke gave a thought-provoking speech linking the 150 year history of James Heal with significant world events and inventions such as the lightbulb and telephone, both of which used textiles in their construction, coming after the company was established, alongside industry advances such as

Concluding the more formal part of the evening, six members of staff including Neil were recognised for their long service, all having worked at James Heal for over 25 years, between them totalling 150 years. Four other awards were presented to members of staff voted for by their peers for; Character, Leadership, being a Values Champion and an Unsung Hero.

The party went into full swing with SouthWest Band entertaining guests until late in the evening.

Neil, “It has been a wonderful week of collaboration and further building relationships with our team and global partners, many of whom have been with us for decades, all joining together to celebrate the very special achievement and longevity of James Heal.”

Esthetic laser business expands with investment

Laseraid, the UK’s first ‘one stop shop’ for supplying the growing market in aesthetic laser provision, has made a sixfigure investment in a new base in the region to strengthen its services and support to customers across the north. The expansion is already creating new jobs here.

Located in Thorpe Park, Leeds, t h e n e w 1 , 3 5 0 s q f t p re m i s e s will be home to Laseraid’s growing technical service and education team in the north, led by service engineer Alan Salter. It features a full workshop for maintenance and repairs of Laseraid’s complete portfolio of medical devices from all of the leading suppliers of the latest cutting-edge technology for the aesthetic industry.

The Leeds facility also includes a dedicated training facility and a showroom to support the growth of their customer base across the north, and ensure they continue to support customers with up-to-date device training and education.

Commercial director Jamel Hussain comments: “Following the launch of our business in the UK last summer, we have seen phenomenal growth with demand for our subscription service, in particular, surpassing forecasts. As we had expected, there was huge pent-up demand from new and expanding clinic owners for an affordable, fixed cost subscription model which would give them access to reliable laser equipment while also providing professional training and the support of a national network of service engineers. We now have customers in all corners of the UK and need to ensure that we are able to provide outstanding service nationwide.

“Growth in the aesthetic sector in the north of England and Scotland is significant and forecast to continue,

and with new clinics opening all the time, we’re seeing increasing numbers of enquiries where it would be easier and more convenient for them to visit a showroom or training facility in Leeds.

We believe that our new Yorkshire base will be a huge bonus for customers in the north, with our skilled team in Leeds now able to support them with training workshops, experience days and demonstrations, similar to those we host at our facilities in the south.”

In recent years, the use of lasers by clinics, doctors and dermatology specialists has boomed as technology has become available to assist with a wide range of treatments including laser hair removal, tattoo removal, skin rejuvenation, fat freezing, body contouring and facial treatments.

Laseraid UK supports the buyers and users of this growing technology on an all-inclusive subscription model where users can package the rental of the machine, servicing costs, training and marketing into one fixed monthly payment.

TopicUK August 2022

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1500 employees across 14 offices. He led a strategic transformation through client focus, growth, technology, and innovative delivery models.

In his new appointment Jeremy will work alongside rradar’s CEO Gary Gallen and the expanded board, increasing and broadening the capabilities of the firm’s strategic leadership and advising on the direction and growth of the company.

rradar announces key non-executive board appointment rradar, the leading UK litigation and commercial law firm, has announced the appointment of Jeremy Cohen, as non-executive director to its board.

Jeremy is the latest in a range of highprofile appointments by Hull-based rradar, which specialises in digital and insurance innovation.

From 2015 to 2021, Jeremy was the CEO of the UK, Ireland and Middle East region of Dentons, the world’s largest law firm.

In this role, he was responsible for leading the growth strategy for a £200+ million business of 200 partners, with

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I am delighted to welcome Jeremy to the board. This is a significant appointment and to have secured someone with Jeremy’s legal background...

Gary said: “I am delighted to welcome Jeremy to the board. This is a significant appointment and to have secured someone with Jeremy’s legal background, with a proven track record of experience and achievement at the highest level in the world’s biggest law firm shows the growth potential and exciting future development of the company – further strengthening our Board capabilities.

Jeremy commented on his appointment: “What Gary and rradar have achieved over the past decade is truly remarkable, making waves and disrupting the legal industry from within. Gary’s vision of what a law firm can become using technology and a breadth of legal and other services to genuinely transform the offering to clients, is inspiring – as is the passion and energy with which he and his team are pursuing it. “rradar’s journey from start-up to leading player in the legal sector is well underway. Some big challenges still lie ahead though in scaling up to bring rradar’s unique service model to a wider range of clients, while maintaining its commitment to continued innovation and dramatically enhanced client outcomes. I am very pleased to be coming on board for the next stage of the journey and helping rradar to achieve its ambitions.”

Kirklees College celebrates Outstanding Learners at COLS Awards and Catering students. Guests also enjoyed a performance from Latin American dancers, Christian Skibsrud and Olivia Oates, during the ceremony.

The annual student COLS (College Outstanding Learner Success) Awards took place at Kirklees College’s Huddersfield Centre recently as students were honoured in each curriculum area for their outstanding achievements throughout the year.

The awards originated from the Thomas Armytage’s Technical School Endowment of 1879, and are presented to students for academic performance, contribution to college life and personal qualities. There were 29 category winners plus five overall winners at the awards who received a cheque from the fund, a trophy and certificate.

There were overall prizes were also awarded for 16-18 Student of the Year, Adult Student of the Year, 16-18 Apprentice of the Year, Adult Apprentice of the Year and Student of the Year for Outstanding Achievement.

Mark Bennington, vice principal corporate operations and Jonathan Price, former business development manager were comperes for the evening and guests enjoyed a two-course buffet prepared and served by the Hospitality

The overall winners’ awards were presented to Nye Berry, Georgia Cook, Joshua McDowell, Jack Archer and Hisham Shakeel for making a special impact on the judging panel with their outstanding personal and academic achievements.

Palvinder Singh, principal and chief Executive at Kirklees College said: “Our mission statement for Kirklees College is ‘Creating Opportunities, Changing Lives’. Now in its twelfth year, it was fantastic to celebrate the achievements of our students who have embodied our values of kindness, unity and excellence and grasped the opportunities that Kirklees College provides to change their lives for the better.”

TopicUK June 2022

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Bailie continued: “The event was held online, so it was particularly special to see people across the group settling down to enjoy the occasion with their own families — who all shared in our pride at the result.

“Not only was it a celebration of a job well done for the team, but also an opportunity for family members of all ages to be inspired and proud of the part that each of our colleagues plays in the Group’s collective success.”

Bailie Group scoops national innovation accolade at FBUAwards Leeds-based Bailie Group, a family-owned group of agencies and consultancies with a purpose to invest in people and ideas that make a positive difference, has been recognised for its enduring commitment to innovation at the Family Business United Awards.

emergence of socially responsible technologies or enterprises.

Speaking of the firm’s commitment to innovation, Fergus Bailie, CEO, said: “As a Group, innovation is incredibly important to us. It’s an element that underpins our entire business ethos to invest in people and ideas that make a positive difference in society.

Scooping the coveted ‘Innovation Family Business of the Year’ title, “It’s not just something we talk the Group was commended for about, but an area in which we its unrivalled focus on nurturing invest heavily. So, to have been originality — having ringfenced an recognised for our efforts, by an annual sum of £500,000 to support organisation that is passionate pioneering ideas proposed and about the importance that family businesses play globally, is a great developed by its own team. honour.”

A further half-a-million pounds will be dedicated to a ‘Dragon’s In line with the Group’s approach, Den style’ programme, which will the event itself was a true family see the business invest in external occasion, with colleagues and their companies responsible for the loved ones joining from far and wide.

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Bailie Group’s innovative and values led approach has seen the business continue to secure contracts with high-profile organisations including UK central government departments, local authorities, National Rail, Transport for London, the Met Police, and BAE Systems Ltd. Assignments completed by Bailie Group brands include: •

Delivery of a Single Online Home for all UK police services – the most significant change to UK policing since the 999 roll out in 1976. 60% of UK citizens now have access to this digital crime reporting platform.

•

Helping to train the military to be the best they can be, having digitalised academic learning for the British Army and progressing 3,260 soldiers through formal qualifications in 12 months.

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Building National Rail Enquiries journey planner, which received 4 million daily page visits with 99.99% availability.

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Developing a case management system for Social Work England.

Containing 32 million data entries from day one, this tool is now used by over 96,000 social workers.

New office managing partner and three partner appointments for EY Yorkshire EY has announced Tim West as the new ofice managing partner in Yorkshire to lead the office and continue its growth in the region.

internally that it was also expanding its partner presence to meet strong demand from its clients by elevating the associate partner role to partner across some of its regions, including the UK. Combined with this year’s equity partner appointments, this change brings EY’s total UK partner number to 1,526 and the total number of partners across EY’s business in the North of England overall to 105.

Stephen Church, EY North managing partner, commented: “These latest appointments will help further strengthen our presence across the region.

“I’d also like to extend my congratulations to Tim on his new role and know he will be a great asset to the region. And to Suzanne, thank you for your commitment and dedication to the office managing partner role.”

Tim takes over the reins from Suzanne Robinson, who has successfully completed a five-and-a-half-year tenure in the role and will continue in the firm as financial accounting advisory services (FAAS) leader across UK and Ireland.

Commenting Tim said: “Having spent my entire working life in the Leeds and Yorkshire business community where I’ve made many great friends and acquaintances, it’s an absolute pleasure and privilege to be taking on this role.”

Since joining the Leeds office 22 years ago, Tim has held a variety of roles, providing tax advice to a wide range of local businesses, and has become well known throughout the North as a result. As a Partner in EY’s Business Tax Services Team, Tim frequently instructs QCs in tax courts and tribunals on some of the region’s most high-profile cases.

In addition, EY has announced three partner appointments in Yorkshire as part of the firm’s continued investment in its regional business.

This includes the appointment of Rob Skinner, and the promotion of Hayley Carrington and Leo Brown.

Earlier this year, EY announced

Leo Brown works in EY’s Forensics team, where he has built 20 years’ experience providing forensic accounting support to clients.

Hayley Carrington has been part of EY’s audit and assurance team in Yorkshire for 12 years. During her time at EY, Hayley has worked with a diverse portfolio of companies across the North of England.

Rob Skinner works in EY’s Global Compliance and Reporting team.

Rob has 15 years of experience advising Financial Service clients around their corporate tax affairs.

TopicUK August 2022

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I am Döner signs UK multisite franchise deal Following on from their recent international opening in Dubai, I am Döner, the award-winning better kebab brand backed by Think Hospitality, has signed a multisite franchise deal to take the brand to Merseyside and the Isle of Man, a deal facilitated

by Seeds Consulting. £52,000 was raised.

The partnership with Optimum Group, the company behind the franchise of Costa Coffee and Kaspas in Merseyside, will see the first UK franchise opening for the brand, with a first site due to open this summer in Liverpool.

Dave Connor, CEO Optimum Group said; ‘Having researched the premium kebab sector extensively for a number of years we are pleased to have selected to partner with I am Döner. The brand is strong, systemised and led by an experienced management team. The menu and food really is the stand out feature, simply the best döner we have tasted. We just had to bring this brand to the North West of England. This new addition will be a great fit in our brand portfolio of coffee shops and dessert businesses. We will be opening two I am Döner outlets within the first year and at least ten within five years. We are proud to be the first UK franchise partner.’

I am Döner chairman, James Hacon says ‘We are excited to start our UK roll out with the team at Optimum Group, who have both the experience and vision to make this a massive success. This is the culmination of three years hard work from the I am Döner team where we have strengthened leadership and focused on taking a fantastic concept and making it run like a systemised well-oiled machine.’

Seeds Consulting founder Matteo Frigeri adds: “We are delighted to be retained by I am Döner to assist with their ongoing UK and international expansion plans. A strong USP, a moderate upfront investment and industry-leading EBITDA margins make I am Döner the perfect food franchise not only for experienced groups like Optimum, but also other traditional and non-traditional hospitality operators in our network”.

I am Döner was started in 2016 by Chef Paul Baron and is now also backed

by Think Hospitality. Paul started a revolution from a little takeaway shop in Headingley in 2016 inspired by a trip he had to Berlin. He wants to make the Döner kebab more than a guilty pleasure for the intoxicated!

There are now three stores in the UK – Headingley, Harrogate and Leeds City Centre.

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SportsShoes.com wins best online operation award

Online running shoes, running clothing and outdoor gear retailer SportsShoes. com has won the best online operation of the year at an event regarded as the UK footwear retail industry’s Oscars.

Organised by Drapers, the UK’s leading authority on fashion retailing, the awards ceremony was held at the Grosvenor House in London and was attended by

said SportsShoes.com had a “seamless” operation, describing it as “perfect”. The panel also said their customers know they can place an order and receive it the next day.

Established in 1982 the firm offers more than 17,000 products from 150 global running and outdoor brands. From a running perspective these include Asics, Nike, Adidas, Hoka and New Balance whilst in terms of outdoor they include Haglöfs, Mammut, Rab and Patagonia.

hundreds of industry decision makers.

The Shipley-headquartered firm won after being shortlisted alongside seven other footwear retailers.

Comprising 17 categories, the Drapers Footwear Awards are judged by a panel of experts chosen for their expertise, experience and positions within the industry.

Commenting on the win, the judges

Managing director, Brett Bannister, said: “It’s fantastic to be recognised by the Drapers Footwear Awards for our online operation. It’s testament to the capability of our people and their dedication to delivering a best-in-class online retail experience. “We’re not going to rest on our laurels because we want to continually improve as a business whilst helping people enhance their lives and health through running and fitness.”

CFFC Relaunch Membership The Community Foundation for Calderdale are relaunching their membership scheme this summer for individuals and businesses to be able to support Not-For-Profit organisations in the community.

The Community Foundation for Calderdale are relaunching their membership scheme this summer for individuals and businesses to be able to support Not-For-Profit organisations in the community.

There are different levels of membership, you can choose the one that’s right for you. Voluntary and Not-for-Profit organisations can join for £10 per year, individuals or small businesses/ sole traders can join for

£120 annually or £10 per month and larger businesses can join for £600 annually or £50 per month.

If you are a Foundation Club Member or a Friend of the Foundation, 100% of your membership fee goes towards making grants for one of the priorities you choose. Plus, in the first year we will match fund your membership to double the amount going towards making grants. If you are a Foundation Club member, your membership fee is

£600 so £1200 will go towards grants which we will give out to charities in Calderdale. There will be monthly business networking events where you can meet like- minded local people who care about making a difference in Calderdale. Plus, you get to choose which cause you want the grant to be made available to. You can choose from housing and homelessness, poverty and disadvantage, community cohesion, health and wellbeing, or towards the climate emergency fund.

For more information and to join, visit https://cffc.co.uk/ foundation-club/

TopicUK August 2022

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Redmayne Bentley chooses Wellington Place for its new headquarters

Developer and Asset Manager, MEPC, has announced that Redmayne Bentley, one of the UK’s largest independent investment management firms, has relocated its Leeds head office to the leading Wellington Place urban quarter.

The organisation has taken 11,700 sq ft of Grade A office space at 3 Wellington Place completing its move recently.

Established in Leeds in 1875,

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Redmayne Bentley has offices across the UK, and has a long connection with the city, with its head office always being based in the city. The firm previously had offices in Albion Place, Merton

House and Butts Court on Albion Street before moving to Bond Court in 2011.

The move to the MEPC developed We l l i n g t o n P l a c e s u p p o r t s Redmayne Bentley’s continuous growth and plans for its next chapter, with its people within the business and clients at the heart of these plans.

Paul Pavia, commercial director at MEPC, the developer and asset manager behind Wellington Place, said: “Redmayne Bentley is a long-established business with its roots in Leeds and is recognised as a key player in the city’s financial sector, so we couldn’t be more pleased that they have chosen Wellington Place as its head office.

“Wellington Place is a leading destination for major public and private sector organisations, from the likes of HMRC to international giants such as Allianz.

We look forward to welcoming others to join our community.”

Liz Dean, director of HR at Redmayne Bentley, commented: “Our team is vital to our success. Our new office at

welcoming clients and business contacts into our new space.”

It is essential that business decision makers recognises that it is about more than just the office itself but also the wider surroundings and amenity that will assist with the retention of staff...

Wellington Place provides a high-quality environment and tools for those who choose hybrid working while supporting the fantastic culture and wellbeing of our people. We also look forward to

Jeff Pearey, director of Letting Agents JLL, said: “Attracting Redmayne Bentley to Wellington Place is another endorsement of the quality of buildings, location and environment that the development offers.

“As occupiers continue to drive the reoccupation of their offices, it is essential that business decision makers recognises that it is about more than just the office itself but also the wider surroundings and amenity that will assist with the retention of staff. Redmayne Bentley is joining a growing number of businesses that already enjoy what Wellington Place has to offer.”

Sponsored by Scriba the award-winning public relations business specialising in B2B communications

responsibility to support the ambitions of those in our sector and region, and such a qualification equips graduates with a ready-made, lifelong career – anywhere in the world.”

Smith Brothers invests in Yorkshire’s future talent A Yorkshire-headquartered high -voltage elect rical engineering firm has pledged its investment in the region’s future,with the recruitment of two apprentice cable jointers into its Elland base.

years with Utility and Construction Training (UCT).

Candidates will be given the opportunity to work on large-scale electrical engineering projects in the high-voltage, renewables, and energy storage sectors – across a client roster which includes Saint Gobain Glass, Yorkshire Water, An attractive ‘earn while you learn’ Arlington Energy, and Lightsource BP. package will see Smith Brothers provide vital hands-on experience “Our apprenticeship scheme is designed to the trainees, which will be to offer people a job for life,” explained dovetailed by a two-year City & Richard Smith, co-founder of Smith Guilds academic course and three Brothers. “As an employer, it’s our

The annual apprenticeship scheme is not solely reserved for school-leavers though, as Richard continued: “We take apprentices of all ages because we believe that everyone deserves a chance.

Some of the best engineers left school and went straight into a labouring job, but years later, they might be keen to back up that practical experience with a formal qualification.”

As part of the programme, trainees will spend one month per year at the training centre, 9-10 months on site with Smith Brothers, and the remaining time focused on completing the City and Guilds academic requirements.

The programme will start in Autumn.

Company of the Month TopicUK June 2022

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Modo25 launches design and digital PR offering with two new hires

Leeds-based digital marketing agency, Modo25 is expanding its offering with the appointment of Mike Turner as a senior creative designer and Matthew Fraser as digital PR and outreach manager.

With over seven years of design industry expe rie nce, M ike has previously held roles at Sky Betting and Gaming as a senior designer and an SEO executive and designer at Search Laboratory.

knowledge across digital PR and SEO from his PR roles, having previously worked on a range of B2B and B2C clients including Twisted Automotive, A-SAFE, EW Group, Marks & Spencer and ScS.

Mike brings a range of design skills to the role and will be delivering conceptual design, branding, banner visuals, landing pages, A/B testing and all creative and design work for Modo25 clients as well as for the agency and its MarTech platform, BOSCO™.

Mike said: “I look forward to getting stuck into all aspects of design by putting my stamp on all things creative.” Matthew added: “I’m looking forward to working with the team and growing the digital PR offering.

Matthew is joining the agency with over six years of traditional and digital PR experience from roles held at communications agency Faith, Jaywing PR and Grayling. He graduated from Leeds Beckett University with a degree in Public Relations.

He has a variety of skills and

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setting an example for others to follow within the world of digital transformation. The Digital Enterprise Top 100 campaign profiles and celebrates 100 of Leeds City Region’s most digitally innovative, transformational, and resilient businesses: sharing their stories, not just across Yorkshire and the North but the UK and internationally.

Chief operating officer, Abi Liddle, commented: “We are so pleased to welcome Mike and Matthew to the team. Both bring a wealth of experience which will grow the agency’s digital skillset and allow us to deliver truly integrated digital marketing for clients.

In addition to launching two “We are delighted to have been new digital offerings, Modo25 named as one of the ‘Digital has also been named as one Enterprise Top 100’ in the region of the Digital Enterprise Top against strong competition. Being 100 businesses in the region. selected highlights the great The list celebrates digital work we do for ourselves to be innovation, transformation digitally innovative and resilient in difficult trading times. We need and resilience. to remain digitally innovative so The list is a major initiative that we can reach, engage and to identify companies that are perform for our clients.”

How Kirklees Apprenticeships for All can help with your staff development

Kirklees Apprenticeships for All offer a range of support services, all of which can be accessed free of charge and could be of huge benefit to yourself, your workforce and your business.

If you are a Kirklees based business who currently employs or are looking to employ an apprentice we can help support you in the following areas.

Mental Health and Wellbeing support

Detail: Empower your workforce to learn coping mechanisms, build self-care routines and integrate health strategies to improve their mental health and wellbeing.

Format: Bespoke 1-to-1 sessions or group workshops and webinars, tailored specifically to the needs of your workforce and business requirements.

Description: Explore areas such as mindfulness, relaxation techniques, resilience and self-care, capacity building, lifestyle and wellness, confidence and motivation building.

Delivered by: The Better Health Generation

Mental Health First Aid

Detail: Delivered by an accredited Mental Health First Aid England Instructor, nominate members of your workforce to become Mental Health First Aiders.

Format: Two day face to face course, run from various locations across Kirklees Description: Understand the important factors influencing mental health, identify signs and symptoms to be aware of in the workplace, provide Mental Health First Aid support to those in need and signpost people for professional help where required.

Delivered by: CAST: Learning Solutions Ltd

The Employed Learners Network

Detail: Your Apprentices can access a network of people all learning whilst in work and receive support and advice on their current learning journey.

Format: Group, networking sessions, personal growth & development Description: Benefit from peer to peer support, sharing of best practice, confidence building and form connections with other apprentices and receive support on managing work/life/learning balance.

Delivered by: C & K Careers Ltd

Personal Growth and Development

Detail: Explore areas including work ethic, team work, the importance of lifelong learning, agile and flexible working and professionalism in the workplace.

Format: Tailored, personal growth training sessions, bespoke to your business requirements Description: All delivered whilst highlighting the importance of "FREDIE" - Fairness, Respect, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Engagement Delivered by: C & K Careers Ltd

Contact the team today and find out more!

Web: www.kirkleesapprenticeshipsforall.co.uk Tel: 01484 221000 and ask for “Apprenticeships” E-mail: apprenticeshipsforall@kirklees.gov.uk

Kirklees Apprenticeships for All is part funded by the European Social Fund and managed by Kirklees Council.

It is delivered across the Kirklees District alongside our delivery partners; The University of Huddersfield, Kirklees College, Kirklees Active Leisure, Thornton & Ross Ltd and Connect Housing Association.

Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s Wo m a n Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s Wo m a n

Youbee Media Creativ it y in Market ing

Youbee Media’s Head of Creative, Dena Reynolds, on ‘why creativity adds zest to your marketing strategy’

Marketing is often perceived as strategy and statistics; calculated planning to extend business reach, while selling more units and converting new clients.

Social Media algorithms and SEO are, in their own way, like a science. At the other end of the spectrum, there’s Creativity. Making things look pretty, generating content for your Instagram grid, right? Well, yes…but there’s much more to it. While Facebook Ads will target your demographic, the look and feel of your feed is what will secure their interest. As Youbee Media’s Head of Creative, I want to share why marketing creativity is the key to connecting with your target audience.

Small ambitious businesses need to stand out from the crowd. The pandemic made many people rethink their work situation, turning ‘passion projects’ into money-making realities. HMRC data shows that in March 2021, more new businesses were created than in any other

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month since records began in 1989.

This wave of entrepreneurialism is exciting, but it means there’s a lot of competition out there.

The good news is that your individuality will distinguish your brand. You have a story and an ethos that’s all your own, and this forms the backbone of your business. This is too valuable to disregard. It’s tempting to use (for example) a generic Canva logo; something functional that reflects your trade. But these easily accessible graphics will also be utilised by your competitors, so you risk blending into a homogenous mass of similar service providers.

Admittedly, purchasing graphics ‘off the peg’ is an easy option. You don’t have time to convert your back story into a visual language. However, a good creative designer can unlock this for you. They will listen and translate your business into something unique

and authentic. It’s vital that your message is conveyed consistently and professionally; you might have a solid product and business plan, but if your branding and visuals are hit-and-miss, people are less likely to engage – and more importantly, to remember you.

Creative costs mightn’t be as expensive as you anticipate. You don’t need a whole library of assets from the get-go, but you do need to have something in place that will stand the test of time, conveying your style and brand values.

I’m privileged to work as part of a closeknit team, where different marketing disciplines merge, giving our clients the best set of options to promote their business. This ensures that the visual language of our clients’ brands meshes smoothly with their other content. This feeling of brand consistency makes a business identifiable, creating a sense of stability and trustworthiness. A consistent brand implies quality and reliability. It has roots and will endure – which is ultimately what we all want for our businesses.

Construction firm wins multi-million-pound contract Infiniti Construction is to begin work on one of the most architecturally and culturally significant buildings in the north of England after winning a multi-million-pound contract to convert Scarborough's former Westwood School home to the old Grade 2-listed Stephen Joseph Theatre - into 28 new one- and two-bedroom apartments.

The building is the first major work by the distinguished Scarborough architect Sir Edwin Cooper, who is said to have designed more buildings in the City of London than any architect since Sir Christopher Wren. Six carved relief panels on the south side of the building are attributed to the wellknown monumental and architectural sculptor Henry Charles Fehr.

The former Westwood School is also the location of one of the first theatresin-the-round in the UK created in 1976 by Stephen Joseph and which premiered all of Sir Alan Ayckbourn’s plays produced for the next 20 years

until the theatre moved to its current town centre location in the mid-90s.

The 12-month, full turnkey project will create work for about 50 partand full-time trades jobs and follows other significant wins for Scarboroughbased Infiniti Construction with redevelopment and refurbishment work on the town's The Esplanade Hotel and The Bike & Boot Hotel.

The future of the Westwood building, which opened in 1900 as a school, will be ensured with the conversion into residential use as will the historically important theatre-in-the-round which

is set to become a co-working space, with open-plan work area, private meeting rooms and toilets.

Most recently the site was Yorkshire Coast College's Westwood Campus, the grounds of which now also offers the potential to create a new fourstorey building to provide an additional 22 apartments.

Alex Willgrass and Marcus Rowe, directors, working closely alongside project manager Sharon Lester, see the contract as an emphatic confirmation of Infiniti Construction's ability to win and deliver high quality construction projects on time and to budget. "It is going to be a fantastic challenge for everyone here to help enhance the fabric of one of the most architecturally and culturally significant buildings in the north of England, while creating modern, high quality, attractive, environmentally friendly living spaces," said Alex.

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razorblue breaks own record with 48% growth Yorkshire headquartered razorblue has seen its biggest year strategy deliver so successfully is of growth yet, taking revenue for the 21-22 financial year really exciting.” north of £12m, significantly exceeding last year’s 32% growth.

The managed IT service provider remains on track to hit its £20million turnover target by 2023 and now employs more than 150 people.

CEO, Dan Kitchen said: “Our longterm strategy to put our customers first, constantly improving our service, evolving our product offering, and employing the most skilled technical experts – continues to pay off. We continue to implement our growth strategy through geographical expansion, having completed another acquisition with others in the pipeline.

“We have also launched our own digital academy, working closely with local colleges, to help create the IT networking, development and security skills we urgently need in our industry.”

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The company now has seven offices and expanded its reach into Scotland in 2021 following the acquisition of SARN Technologies, its second acquisition in as many years. Growth has also necessitated an office move in the Teesside region and Scotland to accommodate the larger team.

razorblue has plans to recruit 40 additional team members in the next 12 months to support its plans to continue expanding its nationwide coverage and adding more products and services to the current offering.

The firm continues to grow and has several live vacancies open, as well as vacancies on its academy scheme.

Commercial director, Mark Wilkinson added “This has been yet another “Whether a student is hired part-time, phenomenal year of growth for the full time, or on a placement, studying business. As expected, to facilitate at ULaw Business School will have this growth we continue to add new equipped them with the necessary people to our ever-expanding teams academic and employability skills to enabling us to be positioned even contribute to the growth and success better for faster growth in the next of the organisation they join.” financial year.

“I joined the company in September 2012 when the turnover was less than £1m, and to see our growth

Photo: (L-R) Dan Kitchen (CEO), Lee Harris, Alan Timothy, David Raper, Chris Gill, Mark Wilkinson, Rachel Atkinson, Joanne Finkeldey, Jonathan Anderson

Aagrah celebrates 45 years in business

One of the region’s most renowned Asian restaurants is celebrating 45 years in business.

The Aagrah Group opened its first restaurant on Westgate, Shipley, in July 1977.

Tuesday 5 July (the actual birthday) diners were offered 45% off their bill in restaurants at ChapeAllerton Doncaster, Garforth, Leeds City Ce ntre, Shiple y, Tadcaster, Thornbury, Wakefield and Skipton

When brothers Sabir, Iqbal and Mohammed Aslam decided they wanted to set up a restaurant to share the delights of Asian cuisine with the people of Bradford, little did they know that 45 years later their multi awardwinning business would still be running some of the most popular eateries in Yorkshire.

Throughout the month, from Monday to Friday, diners will receive 25% off their bill at all the restaurants above (excluding Skipton).

And to celebrate the milestone anniversary, the business has announced a number of promotions.

The celebrations began on

And membership of the restaurant’s Privilege Club will be free of charge during July.

Since opening in 1977, the Aagrah Group has won nume rous accolades.

Managing Director Mohammed Aslam says: “I’m extremely proud of what we’ve done and how we’ve shared our passion for promoting Asian cuisine.”

PURPOSE DRIVEN.

Wild IDEAS.

Reaching your audience, raising your profile, getting results!

formerly @WeAreWildPR 01484 504 488 wild-pr.co.uk

TopicUK August 2022

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The agency, which has delivered integrated marketing campaigns for brands for more than 35 years, will support Lyons Coffee UK with organic and paid social, as well as community management.

Trio of wins for Leeds-based agency Brand communications a g e n c y, P r i n c i p l e s , i s celebrating a trio of account wins including VELCRO® Brand, Lyons Coffee UK and car finance and sales business, UCAN. Principles has been appointed to lead on brand activation for VELCRO® Brand, following a competitive process which has seen the agency respond to a creative brief across several key media channels.

Matt Rowling at VELCRO® Brand said,

“We’re excited to work with Principles; the team answered our targeted brief very clearly and concisely, listening and responding to our feedback throughout the process. We’re looking forward to building a long-term partnership with Principles who has already shown a real passion for our brand.”

Principles has also secured a contract with Lyons Coffee UK to create an online community for the brand, through an engaging and interactive content strategy.

Aberfield secures The Compleat Food Group brief

Aberfield Communications has been appointed by The Compleat Food Group (TCFG), the UK’s leading producer of branded and own-label pastry, olives and antipasti, continental meats and plant-based food, as its trade PR and communications consultancy.

Leeds-based Aberfield, will provide ongoing trade and corporate PR through proactive media relations,

content development and corporate profiling for the group. The agency will also manage and crisis and issues management.

Formed in 2021, TCFG has an annual turnover of £640m and employs more than 3,500 people across 12 sites. It’s home to leading brands including Pork Farms, Wall’s Pastry, Squeaky Bean, Unearthed® and Vadasz as well as producing own-label products for most of the UK’s largest food retailers

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UCAN car sales and finance business requires Principles expertise to develop the brand, accelerate performance marketing activity and broad the reach of the business, by introducing new media channels. Principles will devise and execute a creative strategy, which utilises performance marketing tactics to harvest leads and deliver a memorable and distinctive brand campaign.

Client services director Liz Bryne said: “We’re absolutely delighted to be working alongside three fantastic brands and supporting them with their creative strategies. We understand the real challenges faced by the businesses and are able to draw on our vast experience in creating memorable campaigns and building unforgettable brands.” and a comprehensive portfolio of foodservice companies.

Yvonne Adam, chief marketing officer said: “At The Compleat Food Group we’re committed creating great quality, tasty and wholesome food, that people love to eat, and doing it in a way which reduces our impact on the world and maximises the well-being of the communities we are part of. Aberfield presented us with a pitch that showed they understood this mission and have the ideas and credentials to help us tell this rapidly evolving story.”

Tim Downs, director at Aberfield Communications, said: “The Compleat Food Group is a fantastic new business and we’re thrilled to be working with them from the start of their journey.

Greenarc Ltd recognised as one of Britain’s fastest-growing companies

Greenarc Ltd is a national supplier of residential and commercial fuels which includes: HVO, a 100 per cent renewable diesel alternative that reduces CO2e by up to ninety per cent.

Their latest division supports the decarbonisation of homes and businesses by providing customers with the knowledge and advice on their journey to achieving carbon neutrality.

Chairman Chris Bingham founded the West Yorkshire-based company following on from the success of fuel distributor Craggs Energy.

Greenarc is ranked fourteenth in the UK on the list, the company employs 10 people and achieved sales of £17.8 million in 2021.

Chris said: “We are so proud to be recognised on such a prestigious list alongside other fantastic growing

We are so proud to be recognised on such a prestigious list alongside other fantastic growing businesses...

luckily due to the dedication of our teams and sustained growth we’ve emerged bigger and stronger than ever before. We are looking forward to the future opportunities and rewards Greenarc will bring to our Craggs Energy Group of businesses.”

The ranking of Gree narc Ltd in the top 20 of the fastest-growing private companies recognises the business for its sustained growth, creation of jobs and profitability.

The league table takes on the baton from The Sunday Times Fast Track 100 se ries, which celebrated the country’s leading entrepreneurs for 24 years. The 2022 league table is supported by Barclays Private Bank and DHL Express.

businesses, especially to be ranking in the top 20. It’s been a difficult few years for many businesses, but TopicUK August 2022

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Lending manager weighs in at Finance For Enterprise Champions 2022 and walking away with the title in the under 85kg K1 category.

Gurinder said: “Having worked in the alternative finance sector for a number of years, I understand just what an important role organisations like Finance For Enterprise play in helping to support SME businesses throughout the region.

Against a backdrop of rising levels of inflation, skills shortages in the workforce and the continued impact of Covid-19 on many businesses, for many companies the importance of the ability to access finance has never been greater.

Doncaster-based alternative lending provider Finance For Enterprise has welcomed business lending manager Gurinder Mandir to its team.

Former banker Gurinder will be responsible for helping SME businesses across the UK to access a range of different lending packages to help them plan for future growth, but who are typically unable to secure financial support from traditional high street lenders.

Gurinder has spent the last two years working in the alternative finance sector. During that time, he successfully helped businesses to access in excess of £5 million

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in loan funding, as well as being responsible for supporting a wide range of companies and helping them access financial support during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Gurinder is a keen kickboxing enthusiast, a passion that he has enjoyed since he was just ten years old, and although he spends most of his time using the sport to keep fit, he has just fought his first competitive bout in over eight years, helping his club to be crowned ICO British

One of the main reasons I decided to join Finance For Enterprise is because they recognise the importance of building relationships with the companies they support, really getting to know how a business works and using judgement and understanding of the business when determining the outcome of a lending application.

I’m looking forward to using the skills and knowledge I’ve developed throughout my career to help support the vital work Finance For Enterprise undertakes.”

Andrew Austwick, managing director, said: “Gurinder is a great addition, he brings passion and enthusiasm, coupled with experience and knowledge to his new role. His career that has seen him work in both the banking and alternative finance sectors, he has gained a unique insight into the challenges many businesses face when it comes to accessing finance.”

John Wesley John Wesley Hairdressing

Together we are Halifax! discoverhalifax.co.uk

Packaging specialist to invest for growth A Leeds-based custom-made transit packaging supplier is embarking on the next stage of its growth plans after agreeing a £250,000 flexible funding deal with Reward Finance Group.

Procurement Supplies provides a complete design, manufacture and ‘stock and serve’ service for environmentally responsible transit packaging materials. Through its UK stockholding and logistics facility, the company has the advantage of being able to provide customers nationwide with a stable supply of products, including stretch film for pallets, tapes, shelf-ready corrugated cases (SRP) and transit outers – all of which protect goods during transport to customers.

The company was founded in 2020 after owners Paul and Stella Sykes spotted an opportunity to help

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businesses reduce the environmental impact of their packaging. Its products are carefully sourced according to their environmental composition and quality, and it is here where Procurement Supplies sees strong growth potential as its plastic products are exempt from the Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT) because they contain at least 30% recycled content.

Mark Storey of BHP Debt Advisory L L P, R e w a r d Fi n a n c e G r o u p recommended its Asset based solutions product which provides procurement supplies with access to a £250,000 facility. This will support the company’s growth by enabling it to leverage value from its assets, chiefly to invest in increasing its stockholding of sustainable packaging products sourced from its UK and Italian suppliers.

Commenting Paul Sykes, director of Procurement Supplies said, “We are

delighted that Reward have been able to provide us with a funding facility through its Asset Based Solutions that gives us the flexibility we need to grow and take the business forward. Working with Reward has been a pleasure, with Simon and the team taking time to understand our business and recognise the growth opportunities for us.

“Their responsiveness was particularly impressive, with the timescale from the initial meeting to having the facility in place taking only a few weeks rather than months as we’ve experienced with other finance providers.”

Simon Micklethwaite, business development director at Reward Finance Group added, “Procurement Supplies is a company with excellent growth prospects, particularly given the need for all businesses to operate more sustainably, and we are pleased to be able to support them. Through our Asset Based Solutions, Paul and his team have a flexible working capital facility at their disposal which can be used as and when required to suit the needs of the business.”

Tom commented: “I am delighted to be joining Sterling Capitol at such an exciting time for the industry, and for Sterling Capitol. To join an established developer such as Sterling is a fantastic opportunity for me which I could not turn down”.

Sterling strengthens team with senior appointment Sterling Capitol, the leading Yorkshire property development company, has strengthened its team with the appointment of Tom Brown as a senior development surveyor.

The award-winning company, chaired by Sir Bob Murray CBE,

“We have a strong pipeline of sites we are bringing forward for development and we are very much on the acquisition drive for new opportunities across Yorkshire and the North East”.

owns and manages business parks across the county.

Paul Beckett, head of development welcomed Tom, saying; “Tom’s appointment will both enhance and strengthen our team. He has an excellent track record, and his experience and expertise will be a massive asset to our company”.

Tom, who studied real estate at Sheffield Hallam University, joins from Network Rail where he had worked for the past five years. He previously worked for property consultancies Carter Jonas in Yorkshire and Lambert Smith Hampton in the North West.

He added: “As one of the most respected property development companies in the region, we are focussed on building on the company’s achievements in the past two decades. Tom’s role in the business will be pivotal to ensure a successful future.”

Journey through art and nature this summer

Yorkshire Sculpture Park, West Bretton, Wakefield WF4 4LG 1 mile from M1 J38

Book tickets at ysp.org.uk

Robert Indiana, LOVE WALL, 1966-2006, installation view at Yorkshire Sculpture Park, 2022. Photo © Jonty Wilde, courtesy YSP. Artwork © 2022 Morgan Art Foundation Ltd./ Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York/DACS, London. Registered charity 1067908.

TopicUK August 2022

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Jobs Outlook: Spotlight on Yorkshire An in-depth look at Yorkshire's economic and recruitment activity

“Business confidence has taken a significant hit. A cut in VAT on energy bills to 5%, and other steps to relieve the tax burden on firms to encourage investment are crucial.”

Demand for skills The latest data for Yorkshire & Humber shows a cause for concern with on-going recruitment challenges,rising raw material costs and supply chain disruption being the key factors contributing to the inflation issues which are affecting business confidence and in turn limiting the region’s growth potential

Similar to our last jobs outlook report, there are skill shortages across all sectors.

In the MYCCI Economic report for Q2, the data highlights the manufacturing sector as a key concern.

Staff appointments

Mark Roberts, Chair of the Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership, commented: “Recruitment has remained challenging, particularly in the manufacturing sector, where vacancies at the UK level have reached their highest levels in 20 years. 77% of manufacturing firms, and 58% of service firms, report having experienced recruitment difficulties within the last three months.”

The data from local recruitment agencies indicates a broad stagnation for permanent placements in June with anecdotal evidence attributing the drop off to widespread skill shortages, even though the demand for candidates is still there. In addition to this, candidates are accepting counteroffers from their current employers rather than taking on new roles.

Temporary recruitment appears to be more stable with the data showing a sustained rise in billings during June. Businesses believe this is a less risky option due to the flexibility and ability to adjust workforce with fluctuating demands.

Commenting on the latest survey r e s u l t s , Wa r r e n M i d d l e t o n , Manchester office senior partner at KPMG UK, said: “Permanent placements stagnated in June across the North due to a lack of available candidates with the right skill sets. As the skills shortage continues to make an impact, competition for candidates pervades the North with employers

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offering financial incentives to retain talent, so increasing wage inflation.“ “Employers need to ensure that these increased wage costs are sustainable in the long term to avoid creating problems for themselves further down the line.”

Pay pressures and inflation There has been increases in salaries for both permanent and temporary appointments as businesses attempt to retain and recruit talented staff. Inflation trends are also a big factor leading businesses offering higher pay rates.

The impact of inflation is huge as it increases the cost energy, gas, and other raw materials to its highest level in a decade. This has a knock-on effect across the whole country with the Consumer Price Index hit a 40-year high of 9.1% in May. Commenting on the issue, David Bharler, Head of research at the British Chamber of Commerce, said: “Inflation remains by far and away the top concern as businesses face an unprecedented convergence of cost pressures.”

Martin Hathaway, Managing Director of the Mid-Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, also commented: “It is concerning that our manufacturing sales appear to have slowed. Yorkshire, a historically proud manufacturing region, has the tools, skills and ambition to be at the forefront of British and global manufacturing.”

“Our region, as well as the nation as a whole, is still experiencing difficulty recruiting. While it is fantastic news for individuals that they have a choice about where they want to work and the careers they pursue, this is often leaving firms with gaps to fill, potentially having to outsource work, increasing the strain on the already stretched purse strings.”

meaning staff can continue to reach customers easily and efficiently.

Ventilation specialist relocates to larger premises in Leeds Commercial and industrial ventilation services expert HAS-Vent Ltd has signed a lease on Unit 4C at Olympia Trading Estate, Gelderd Lane, Leeds, to support company growth.

Previously based at the Copley Hill Trading Estate, Whitehall Road, HASVent Ltd has expanded considerably, and the firm is now moving to the new 8,784 sq ft space with industrial property lettings specialist Towngate PLC, to facilitate further development of its team this year.

evolved and developed to meet the specific demands of the customer.

HAS-Vent Ltd is the UK's leading independently-owned provider of ventilation and air movement products to the construction industry — particularly the building services sector.

With over 40 years of experience — and ten strategically located branches across the UK — the business has

This new location will benefit the firm considerably, with its easy access to the national motorway network

Jon Black, co-managing director at HAS-Vent Ltd commented on the new warehouse: “Due to our company expansion we outgrew our old premises, so we were on the lookout for somewhere larger with good motorway access to deliver exemplary service.”

Towngate PLC’s property manager, Tom Lamb, added: “We were delighted to provide our existing tenant with a space maximising solution with alternative premises within our portfolio which was in keeping with its existing Leeds base. In addition to Unit 4C offering more internal space, it has the advantage of the large, secure, self-contained rear yard which will be of great benefit to them. “The modern workshop unit was on the market only for a short time, as Leeds continues to attract businesses to the area. I am sure the property will work well for the team, and we’re looking forward to working with them throughout 2022 and beyond.”

York-based Environmental change specialist banks three senior recruits National Trust, RSPB and a number of local authorities.

The duo will lead on lease opportunities with landowners, create partnerships with delivery organisations, form joint ventures and deliver on long-term landscape change.

Leeds record label and development organisation Come Play With Me have launched a new Patreon subscription as they step up their work following new funding wins and a raft of new hires.

A Yorkshire company specialising in biodiversity restoration has made three appointments to its senior team to spearhead the company’s next phase of growth, following a £multi-million investment from specialist alternative asset manager, Gresham House.

The move is the latest part of a wide-scale recruitment drive to grow the current team, based at The Catalyst at the University of York, of 40 to over 200 in the coming years.

The new appointments see environmental and real estate lawyer Alexa Culver LLB join as general counsel for the company, bringing with her over 14 years of background in environmental, natural capital and real estate law.

To m B r o w n a n d Ke r r i a n n McLackland join the new land team, as regional heads of land for the North and South East regions respectively.

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I am passionate about how we farm and manage the landscape and for the huge opportunities Habitat Banks offer for rural land use and the future of farming. ...

Tom brings over nine years of experience in private practice working with farmers, landowners, and rural communities to deliver sustainable strategic rural business planning and development, along with detailed knowledge of the wide range of professional practice matters.

Kerriann is a rural surveyor with over 20 years of experience, and a background in estate management for institutional landowners, including

Commenting on her appointment, Alexa said: “Although Environment Bank has been established since 2006 thanks to some of the UK's leading ecologists, this is a step-change moment for the business, after years of lobbying with the government.”

Tom added: “I am passionate about how we farm and manage the landscape and for the huge opportunities Habitat Banks offer for rural land use and the future of farming.

“Environment Bank is leading the way in demonstrating how diversified income streams can be generated from nature whilst also protecting the environment, habitats and rural communities. I am excited to be on board in helping to create an impact, at scale, which is meaningful and lasting. No other business in the world is doing this.”

Kerriann said; “It’s a great time to join Environment Bank and I am looking forward to engaging with more landowners. Not only are we supporting the rural economy with guaranteed, diversified business opportunities but the Habitat Banks we are creating across England will make a real and lasting contribution to nature restoration and that is such an exciting prospect.

Trio of new board appointments at Thurston Group Modular building manufacturer Thurston Group has welcomed three new directors to its Executive Leadership Team, strengthening the production, construction, and financial expertise of its leadership team.

The new directors will help guide the business as it works to grow its position at the forefront of the modular construction industry.

Gary Ware is promoted to group production director, Gary Robinson to construction director and Matthew Petch to financial director.

Managing director Matt Goff says: “We have an incredibly talented and driven team here at Thurston Group, and this is recognised in these board

appointments – all three of which are internal promotions.

“Gary Ware has led our production services for several years and is an invaluable addition to the Board. Gary Robinson will further strengthen our strategic direction on construction and Matthew will focus on driving our financial growth.

“Since joining the business in 2018, I’ve really promoted a culture of entrepreneurship from the

factory floor through to the senior management team and our new directors have really embraced this culture, removing barriers to collaboration, increasing teamwork and efficiency, and driving change for the better throughout the business.

So, I’m delighted to have them on the Board – we have big plans for the future.”

Design manager Marc Johnson has also been promoted to head of technical.

The Board appointments follow four years of impressive business growth at Thurston’s. Since 2018 it has more than doubled its turnover – it’s on track to achieve £55 million turnover in 2022 (up from £23 million in 2018).

And Matt has set an ambitious target of achieving £100 million turnover by the end of 2025.Thurston Group was acquired by the private investment firm, the HLD Group of Companies in 2021 as part of its planned growth strategy.

TopicUK August 2022

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Joe Browns announce new CEO Joe Browns, the homes and fashion retailer have announced Peter Alecock will join its board as chief executive officer.

Peter joins from JD Sports Fashion PLC where he was chief operating Officer of the retailer’s fashion division for 16 years.

Peter will have responsibility for expanding the business via its own direct channels and its strategic partners, in both the UK and overseas.

Simon Brown, founder and MD, will become more heavily involved with the product and brand which are his passions. In October 2021 Joe Browns announced a growth ambition of £100m by 2026. “ Simon’s passion and enthusiasm percolates throughout the whole of

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the business. The brand is currently delivering fantastic growth but there is an exciting opportunity to build its customer base even further. I look

Honestly, I think the opportunity to grow Joe Browns both at home and overseas is huge and we are ruling nothing out when it comes to achieving this.land use and the future of farming...

forward to working with the talented team at Joe Browns and helping take them on that journey,” said Peter.

“I am delighted to welcome Peter on board at what is probably the most exciting time for the company in 24 years. He brings with him an enviable breadth of experience, that compliments what I think is the strongest leadership team we have ever had.

“Honestly, I think the opportunity to grow Joe Browns both at home and overseas is huge and we are ruling nothing out when it comes to achieving this.” said Simon.

Joe Browns was founded 24 years ago with the intention of “making a few quid and having some fun”, as well as helping customers to feel remarkable in the clothes they wear.

Headquartered in Leeds, it employs 167 people and serves 1.4m customers.

Business Support

Unlock your business potential!

Wakefield First is the first point of contact for businesses in the Wakefield district for free business support and advice.

Promoting inward investment, business growth, supporting trade, job creation, business news and events.

Get in touch and find out more about how we can support your business.

01924 306630 info@wakefieldfirst.com wakefieldfirst.com

253256 Wakefield First Ad.indd 1

13/05/2021 09:37

professional images to promote their restaurant across their website and social media sites.

Their storyboard had 9 elements, beginning with the beautiful Art Deco(1) throughout the restaurant.

As a family run business(2) Bibis has become something of an institution over the past 4 decades. Over the years their guests have experienced a friendly and professional service from the Bibis front of house(3) and kitchen teams(4).

Any pictures of their vibrant cocktails and drinks(5), and the delicious authentic Italian food(6) entice people to book a table.

Storyboard your Commercial Photography Lincoln & Perrin from TopicUK officially appointed agency Roth Read Photography, contine to share their advice with us: The pre-shoot consultation Before we sit you in front of our cameras, we like to get to know you a little. The pre-shoot consultation is where we kick back and have a chat about you and your business.

It’s more than just an overview of your products and services. It’s hearing about your values, listening to your stories, and discussing what matters to you and your customers.

It all sits at the heart of creating your commercial images.

Storyboard breakdown Breaking down this information into a storyboard is an effective way to visually capture the important aspects of your business.

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From this we can create a gallery of storytelling images to promote your business across your social media sites and printed marketing materials.

Marketing strategy A conversation with your own marketing team or independent marketing strategist will be beneficial.

They may have plans for your future marketing campaigns which will build into the storyboard.

They also know how to utilise all your images for promotional purposes, so none are left languishing in a forgotten folder.

Bibis Italianissmo, Leeds Bibis were looking for a selection of

Bibis is renowned for their attention to detail when celebrating their guests’ special events(7), and their fun-filled spectacular showtimes(8) certainly create a party atmosphere(9).

Clearly, it’s so much more than just eating out . . . and we needed to capture it all!

Collection of images Bibis’ storyboard has now developed into a large gallery of images covering everything that’s unique and valued by them.

The clarity of a storyboard allows us to develop a specific collection of images and be well prepared ahead of a photoshoot day; and it will help you gain clarity too.

Eaton Smith Business of the Year 2022

On Friday 1st July, over 150 people in business gathered for the first time in over 2 years for Eaton Smith’s Business of the Year Awards 2022, held at the John Smith’s Stadium. The 12 monthly winners from the 2021/22 series of the Business of the Month Awards were all in contention for the Award which celebrates the hard work, brilliance and innovation of businesses throughout Kirklees, Calderdale and Wakefield. .

Deborah Melluish, Eaton Smith’s senior partner, spoke of the winners: “Each of the monthly winners has been before a judging panel and been awarded the accolade of being a Business of the Month. To see all the monthly winners together at the Awards and to welcome them, along with our other guests, is a perfect celebration of the determination and innovation displayed by the businesses across the Kirklees, Calderdale and Wakefield areas.”

The winners were Easy Bathrooms, the consumer and trade arm of Cubico UK Ltd. Cubico was founded in 2012 to sell bathroom products to independent retailers. However, the strategy changed a few years later and the company opened a network of their own showrooms across the UK and

Easy Bathrooms was born. Since then, the company has seen rapid growth, employs hundreds of people and makes a significant contribution to the region.

In second place were marketing and fulfilment provider, Flow Fulfilment.

Since 2008, Flow Fulfilment have worked with thousands of marketingfocused businesses, providing support on product launches, campaigns, instore promotions, and direct mailing.

The company have also worked with well-known international companies such as Disney, Jaguar, Cadbury’s and Wickes. The business also completed the acquisition of a unique SAAS platform print management company, The Personal Print Portal (TPPP), the creation and launch of its new brand, The Business Building Company (Co.)

and the creation of The Flow Group which ties all the brands together.

In third place were family run business Go Shred Limited, a confidential shredding and document management company based in Huddersfield, is the latest company to win Eaton Smith’s Business of the Month Award which is run in conjunction with the Mid Yorkshire Chamber and the Department for International Trade.

Go Shred was established in 2014 by Mike Cluskey who had previously been a Director at a large shredding company. Today it is a family run business with strong ethical values and impressive ambitions.

The other nominees for the Business of the Year Awards 2022 included Colourcube Automotive Ltd, Synergos Consultancy Ltd, Venture Forge, Snövargar, Torchbearer Interactive Limited, TrueHR, Town Hall Group, Social Progress and Plus Health Company.Established in 1995, the Business of the Month Awards are open to any business in the Kirklees, Calderdale or Wakefield area and the Awards are run in conjunction with the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce and UK Trade & Investment.

TopicUK April 2022

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New Pathways into Science

Psychology By : Cat ri ona Morri s o n , Dea n of Sci en ce – Ul a w

Science can seem like an intimidating subject – thinking of formulas, test-tubes, experimenters in lab coats. But Science is a whole lot broader than that. It might surprise you to learn that, as well as obvious subjects like Computer Science, Science encompasses subjects as wide as Criminology, Psychology, Policing and Education.

At the University of Law we offer all these subjects within the Science School, as well as the opportunity to combine these core subjects with other well-established subjects at the University, like Law and Business.

I’m the Dean of Science, and my background is as a psychologist. When I started my studies (a few years ago!)

I was surprised and challenged by the fact that the real Psychology I was learning did not exactly fit with my expectations.

What’s your burning question about human behaviour? The list is endless, but some of the things I’ve investigated or taught about are: •

•

•

Psychology is mind reading, right?

• Wrong!

Psychology is a rigorous scientific • subject, examining the realm of human and animal behaviour and appreciating the complexity of the mind and brain. • While in my initial undergraduate studies I was a bit confused about the mismatch between expectations and reality, I soon came to appreciate the skills and knowledge I was acquiring.

Having avoided Science at school, I really appreciated the fact that Psychology gave me a route into a fascinating space that I had never imagined I could be part of. I could learn about, use and apply a scientific approach to studying human behaviour.

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Why do we forget things, and does it matter?

fascinate you. As a student at ULaw you will have the opportunity to specialise in a topic that interests you, under the guidance of expert Psychology researchers.

Psychology is a subject that is endlessly fascinating and challenging – we are a long way from an understanding of the human mind – and this means that there are always new studies and experiments to do; the learning never stops.

So how can you use that knowledge in the real world, in the world of work, aside from being a professional psychologist? O nce again, the possibilities are limitless: psychology graduates go into work in health, I s t h e r e s u c h a t h i n g a s education, the civil service, the armed forces, the Police, human resources internet addiction? management, law, retail, commerce, What happens in the brain business. In almost any sphere of work you will find Psychology graduates, when we’re asleep? whose skills of literacy, numeracy and Why is music important to us, critical thinking make them a valued part of an organisation. as human beings?

How do babies acquire language seemingly effortlessly, when learning a new language as an adult is so difficult?

What are the very early signs of dementia?

•

How are people affected by online trolling?

•

What were the benefits of religious faith on mental health during the pandemic?

When you’re equipped with the scientific skills Psychology arms you with, you can ask all these and countless other questions that

So, think about Science, and Psychology in particular, and think about studying at ULaw where we can offer you and exciting, challenging and fulfilling learning experience that offers huge diversity in graduate employment.

www.law.ac.uk

WAKEFIELD BRINGS FORWARD INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR BUSINESSES Wakefield is set to adopt an ambitious local plan this year which will bring forward 1544 acres of employment land to attract businesses who will bring sustainable skilled employment for our residents and grow our existing business community in key sectors along with sufficient land to accommodate the demands for homes.

Broadcut Farm adjacent to the M1 will offer a 450,000sq ft Advanced Manufacturing hub with 10 acres of housing, community amenity space which will allow the district to attract more businesses from the advanced manufacturing sector, bringing further skilled jobs for residents.

Mountpark Ferrybridge is a 400-acre site connected to the M62 for road transport, together with its own freight line and the adjoining River Aire for freight movement.

Suitable for various uses including advanced manufacturing, logistics and distribution and power related activities.

Along with its focused Regeneration plans, South Knottingley offers the only site in the draft plan to accommodate a building upwards one million sq. ft suitable for manufacturing, research and development and e-commerce logistics enhanced by its proximity to the A1/M62 interchange.

Wakefield is focusing on a new approach to economic development; a long-term approach that puts wellbeing at the heart of the Council’s approach to maximise economic, social wellbeing, security of local people and the long-term sustainability of the district for residents.

Wakefield First’s team of specialist advisors offer free and confidential support for businesses looking to grow and develop within the district as well as those looking to locate in the district. Contact us to find out how we can support you invest in Wakefield: invest@wakefield.gov.uk.

Follow us on social media: Twitter: @Wakefieldfirst LinkedIn: Wakefield First

TopicUK August 2022

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Supreme court decision on holiday entitlement for part-year workers

The long-awaited Supreme Court decision in Harpur Trust -v- Brazel has been handed down (on 20 July 2022), just in time for the school summer holidays.

This is the case concerning holidays for workers who do not work all year round, such as term time only workers.

The Supreme Court held that the

42

amount of leave to which a part-year worker under a permanent contract is entitled is not required by EU law to be, and under domestic law is not, pro-rated to that of a full-time worker.

A proportionately greater leave requirement for part-year workers is compliant with the Working Time Directive.

G i v e n t h a t a m o re g e n e ro u s entitlement for part-year workers

does not infringe either the Working Time Directive or the EU Part-time Work Directive, the issue was one of statutory interpretation. The Working Time Directive does not exclude the weeks in which part-year workers do not work from the reference period for determining the length of their leave entitlement. Although this results in a more generous provision for part-year workers, there was no reason for the Court to revise the statutory scheme.

Temporary Covid pavement licence scheme to be made permanent Cafes, restaurants, pubs, snack bars and the like will benefit from plans to make the temporary COVID-related pavement licence scheme for ‘removable pavement furniture’ permanent, but face increased licence fees from 30 September 2022.

Instead of expiring on 30 September 2022 as originally planned, the scheme will continue but with some changes.

Characteristics of the current sche me, designed to pro vide

support to hard-pressed hospitality businesses, include a fast-track application process (with a reduced public consultation period) and low fees, with licences running for up to a year.

A licence covers use of, for example, tables, chairs, benches, counters or shelves for food or drink, umbrellas, heaters and barriers.

Under the revised scheme, local authorities will be able to grant two-year licences, but charges for licence renewals will rise from £100 to £350, and applicants for a

new licence will have to pay £500.

Kirsty Jackson, Partner and Head of our Commercial Property team commented: “A business whose existing pavement licence is due to expire before 30 September should consider applying to renew it before then to benefit from current, lower fees. Businesses with existing table and chair licences should consider converting them to pavement licences before 30 September, as fees are likely to be lower, and those without either should consider whether to apply for one before the increased charges come in.”

Ramsdens Solicitors TopicUK August 2022

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Starting In Business

Collaborative • • • Child Care Child Care Law Employment Problems • • • Dispute Resolution Dispute Resolution Matrimonial & Family • • • Employment Problems Employment Problems Medical Negligence Claims • • • Matrimonial & Family Matrimonial & Family Planning for Retirement • • • Medical Negligence Claims Medical Negligence Claims Residential Property • • • Planning forfor Retirement Planning Retirement Road Traffic Cases • • • Residential Property Residential Property The Law & The Elderley • • • Road Traffic Cases Road Traffic Cases Wills, Trusts Probate • • • The Law & The Elderley The Law && The Elderley • • Wills, Trusts & Probate Wills, Trusts & Probate

Why should I make a lasting power of attorney?

Making a Lasting Power of Attorney is something that all adults should consider, quite often people think that because they don’t have lots of assets or they are still mentally capable then they don’t need to worry about it.

However, if you were to become ill and capacity was lost then your bank accounts etc would be frozen and your family would not be able to gain access to them. Losing capacity isn’t necessarily a gradual event, sudden loss of capacity is relatively common and can result from a head injury or an event such as a stroke, in these situations there is no time to put a Power of Attorney in place before it is too late. Even in cases were memory or capacity is lost over a period of time, for example as a result of dementia, quite often the signs are not recognised until it is too late to give Power to someone.

By making a Lasting Power of Attorney you can ensure that the people you choose can look after your affairs should you become unable. A Property and Finance Power of Attorney gives

46

your chosen Attorneys the power to be able to deal with your financial affairs if the need arises, ensuring that bills are paid and that money is available for your needs. You can also make a Health & Welfare Power which gives your Attorneys the power to be able to make decisions about your personal welfare, for example your care and treatment and where you would live should you be unable to make these decisions yourself. Furthermore, you can give your Attorneys the power to be able to accept or reject life sustaining treatment on your behalf, this would include for example withdrawal of life support or signing a DNR (do not resuscitate) Order.

Should you lose capacity without having a Power of Attorney in place then an application to the Court of Protection would have to be made for someone to be appointed as a Deputy to act on your behalf in relation to your finances. However, the process of applying through the Court to be appointed is both very drawn-out and costly. Once an Order has been obtained from the Court the Deputy appointed they would then be supervised by the Court and would be required to provide a yearly report and pay a supervision fee to the Court.

Can I take my children on holiday after separation?

So, schools out for the summer and peoples renewed enthusiasm for a holiday abroad has led to an influx of queries regarding peoples ability to take their children abroad after they have separated and whether they need their ex’s permission to do so.

For some separated couples they will already have a Child Arrangements Order in place stating who the child lives with. This was previously known as “Residence Order”. If this is the case then the child can be taken abroad by the parent they live with up to one month without needing any agreement from the other parent.

If however there is not a Court Order and both parents have Parental Responsibility, which is usually the

case then written consent will be needed for the child to be taken on holiday. It is important that this requirement is taken seriously as otherwise, you may be leaving yourself open to an accusation of abduction.

If you are trying to plan a trip and the other parent unreasonably withholds their agreement to this then an urgent application to Court needs to be made for a Specific Issue Order.

Your application will need to set out the details of the proposed holiday including dates of travel, address of accommodation and how you can be contacted whilst you are away.

It is always unfortunate if a Specific Issue Application has to be issued as the inference is often that one party is tempting to prevent their child from enjoying a holiday abroad with the other parent. In our experience,

the Court would tend to agree that the child should go on the holiday provided it is in the child’s bests interests for them to do so and there has been transparency over the arrangements.

One other issue to bear in mind relates to surnames. There may be occasions where you are planning to travel with your child but you have a different surname to them. If this is the case then we would tend to recommend that you take as much information with you to the airport as possible to prevent any potential difficulties. It may be useful to take the child’s Birth Certificate, Marriage Certificate and Decree Absolute if necessary as well as any Court Orders relating to care of the child.

We would also encourage you to communicate openly and as transparently as you can with the other parent regarding your plans to travel. We appreciate that that is not always feasible and if we are not able to support you on that communication then an urgent application to Court for an Order specifically allowing you to travel can be made on an urgent basis.

TopicUK August 2022

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chadwicklawrence.co.uk

Solicitors marks 20 years with new directors announcement L e e d s - b a s e d l aw f i r m Winston Solicitors has announced the appointment of two new directors amid celebrations of its 20th year of trading.

The owner managed firm, which was founded in 2002 by Jonathan Winston, has welcomed Teresa Davidson and Harriet Reid from fellow Leeds law firm, Silk Family Law. Both move into senior positions as directors, to work specifically within the family law department alongside family law professional, Wendy Campbell.

Teresa brings with her a wealth of experience with particular expertise in dealing with complex financial cases

arising from divorce, including wealth protection, land and business matters.

She is also noted for children’s issues, including domestic and international childcare arrangements. Chambers UK has previously highlighted her ability in matters involving civil partnerships and unmarried partners.

Harriet joins as a specialist in the family law field, having over 28 years’ experience. She has a wealth of knowledge around divorce and how to advise on resulting financial issues.

Her experience means she is highly knowledgeable in dealing with complex and substantial finance cases, particularly those involving family businesses and farms and

where inherited and preowned assets are in issue.

Jonathan Winston, managing partner commented: “It is a real pleasure to welcome Teresa and Harriet at such an exciting time. The fact that we are attracting such high-caliber legal professionals shows that we, as a firm, have built a great culture and brand.”

The firm has already developed an impressive growth story: having been established by Jonathan from a spare room 20 years ago with just one client to now being known as the go-to firm for businesses and individuals across the UK seeking legal support.

Jonathan added: “A lot of legal firms our size move into the city and open additional offices, but we’ve gone against this and chosen to remain on the edge of the city centre, extending the building as we’ve grown. This way, we have remained at the heart of the local community, with all the additional advantages of easy accessibility and parking for our clients.”

TopicUK August 2022

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Digital Innovation Grant helps joinery business nail growth ambitions A family-run joinery business, which carved out a niche restoring and conserving some of Sheffield’s best-known historical buildings, has boosted its production capacity by over 50% after securing grant funding from the South Yorkshire Digital Innovation Grant scheme.

tenon joints used in their work. With funds secured to purchase the machine, the company then successfully secured a Digital Innovation Grant, which was used to purchase the software needed to automate the production process.

The investment has successfully helped Lee and Robert to increase production by more than 40%, allowing them to fulfil their growing order book. At the same time, the new machinery has also helped the company to reduce waste, as well as eliminating the need to hand finish the joints.

Father and son Robert and Lee Crookes founded their traditional joinery business Crookes and Son in 2010, and since that time the Hillsboroughbased business has successfully breathed new life into a wide range of historical buildings ranging from pubs, libraries and even listed buildings and stately homes.

Built on the skills master carpenter Robert refined during his 50-year career, which began in the early 1970s, the business continues to use many of the traditional skills that can take more than a decade to learn. Although much of their work has concentrated on producing the handmade windows and doors used in historical buildings, in recent years, the company recognised

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that changes in the way wood is treated can mean that the wooden frames it manufactures can provide an eco-friendly alternative to uPVC double glazing.

Having spotted a niche in the market, and with rising demand for the company’s wooden framed doubleglazed windows, which can last for more than 60 years, Lee and Robert recognised that they needed to embrace new forms of technology in order to fulfil their growing order book.

Working with Business Sheffield, Lee and Robert successfully secured grant funding, enabling it to invest in a programmable CNC tenon machine, to create the traditional mortice and

Such has been the success of the new machinery that the company is planning to make further investments in additional machines, as well as recruiting new apprentices to pass on the skills that have been handed down from father to son.

Lee said: “When we first launched the business, we largely relied upon many of the traditional carpentry skills, which can take many years to develop and refine. Like many businesses, we’ve adapted and evolved, but all the equipment we use has been funded by ourselves.

Specialist equipment can be a significant business investment, and as a small family-run business, we knew that although purchasing the mortice and tenon machine would help us to increase our levels of production, to make the most of the machine we would also need to invest in the CNC software, which would automate

many of the processes we previously did by hand. We spoke to Business Sheffield, who told us about the Digital Innovation Grant scheme, and with funds in place it transformed our business almost overnight.

The funding we’ve received from the Digital Innovation Grant has meant we’ve been able to help more homeowners to benefit from long-lasting timber-framed double glazed windows, which can last in excess of 60 years due to the way in which the wood is treated, and we’re also planning to recruit new apprentices to teach them the traditional skills our business has been built on. They’ve also been quick to embrace the new technology we’ve invested in, and it’s given us the confidence to invest in additional equipment in the future.”

Andy Sorby, Business Adviser, Business Sheffield, said: “The Digital Innovation Grant is a unique grant scheme that helps small and medium sized businesses to secure match-funding to invest in technology. I’ve worked with Crookes & Son for some time now; they recognised that the software needed to drive their new mortice and tenon machine would be transformative for their business. The support they’ve received has not only helped the company to significantly increase productivity but also create opportunities for the next generation.”

productivity and growth and enter new markets.

The programme funds up to 50% of projects with costs totalling £2,000-£10,000. It is part

funded by the European Regional Development Fund and is delivered across South Yorkshire

by Enterprising Barnsley, part of Metropolitan Borough Council.

Your Outsourced

marketing team

We're your award-winning, straight talking, outsourced marketing and PR support, ready to help you grow your business, attract customers and raise your profile.

The Digital Innovation Grant scheme was launched in July 2021 and helps SME From bespoke power-hours to businesses across South ongoing support, get in touch to Yorkshire to access match- find out how we can help you! funded grants to help them embrace new ways bevic.co.uk of working to improve

TopicUK August 2022

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Easy Bathrooms plans to open 60 more stores Easy Bathrooms has set out its growth plans, announcing it is stepping up its store roll-out, with ambitions to open 60 more showrooms by the end of 2023, adding to the 117 it already operates, as it plans to reach £130m in turnover.

The retailer was founded in 2012, and has grown rapidly during the last two years, having opened 69 stores since the start of the pandemic, averaging 2.5 new stores per month.

post-pandemic position.

“We have made a better-thanexpected start to 2022. Our sales in the last 12 months have hit £54m and in this financial year we expect Seventeen showrooms have been that to increase to £93m. We are well opened in 2022 so far, and the retailer placed to keep growing, and we are is on track to hit £93m in turnover proud that our growth trajectory this year, with a 47% increase means we will keep creating much needed jobs, each and every week.” on 2021 (£63.3m).

The announcement comes as Easy Bathrooms builds a new, £10m, 330,000 sq ft state-of-theart distribution and logistics hub in Wakefield, which will open in autumn. Further investment is being made into technology initiatives.

Craig Waddington, founder, and majority shareholder said it had ramped up its showroom footprint during COVID, to strengthen its

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Easy Bathrooms employs 680 staff and announced earlier this year that its new HQ and showroom rollout would increase its headcount by 250 by the end of 2023, which is expected to make it the largest employer in the bathroom market.

out when others are closing theirs, and the honest answer is, what other bathroom brands do you know where the price is right, the quality is good, the range of choice is wide, you can browse the products before choosing them, and, whether you’re in Leeds or London, there’s likely to be a store near you? We are creating what the customer wants – we put them at the heart of our strategy, and it’s paying off.

“The high street is changing,” continued Craig. “And I’m often “By opening new showrooms, we’re asked why we keep rolling stores creating the opportunity for more

customers to shop with us, whilst investing into our online store too, for those without a showroom close to them yet. We’re excited to provide new customers with access to our award-winning products and unbeatable value.”

Simultaneously, Easy Bathrooms' current HQ in Birstall – a 110,000 sq ft site – will be repurposed into the largest bathroom and tile destination in the UK. 1,500 ne w product lines will also be introduced by the TopicUK August 2022

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Claremon bottles out to clean up From small acorns grow mighty oaks. In the same way, by working together we can all make a real contribution to reducing plastic waste. One company has pledged to achieve net zero impact on the environment by 2030, and just one of the ways they are achieving this is by partnering with an international organisation to remove plastic bottles from oceans and waterways around the world.

Bradford-based Claremon has launched a ‘Net Zero by 2030' campaign which covers every operational area within the business. This year, the company has signed a contract with the ReSea Project, an international clean-up mission which is enabling businesses

54

to combine profit and purpose to help create a better world.

The ReSea Project employs people in local communities to recover plastic waste polluting oceans and rivers across the globe. It's a great initiative

which is already transforming the lives of people living in some of the most underprivileged areas of the world, as well as making a real difference to the amount of plastic waste in the oceans.

"It all started with the Claremon team deciding that plastic waste was really getting under their skins - and quite literally! Every year we each ingest the equivalent of a credit-card sized mass of plastic from the food chain," said MD John Conroy. "We began looking for ways we could use our business processes to make a real difference. The ReSea project is just one of the initiatives we have implemented to achieve our ‘Net Zero by 2030' objective."

So how does it work? Claremon is

commissioning ReSea to remove 10 plastic bottles from the world's oceans and rivers for every order placed with the company. In addition, when customers choose environmentally friendly printing options, Claremon will undertake to remove 50 bottles.

New customers will be welcomed by a 100 bottle pledge, and if the new customer is referred by another business partner, Claremon will fund removal of a further 100 bottles on behalf of the referring company.

John has done his sums and believes that could add up to a ton of plastic waste every year by 2025 - making a big dent in the company's Net Zero by 2030 campaign.

Closer to home, the team at Claremon

The ReSea Project employs people in local communities to recover plastic waste polluting oceans and rivers across the globe...

began their sustainable journey some time ago, and the company is already offsetting or capturing carbon in a number of ways. They work with Premier Paper's Carbon Capture programme to fund Woodland Trust planting for new native woodlands and in 2022 they're committing to

carbon capture across all paper types and grades, with the longer-term goal of offsetting all materials used in the business.

All paper products used by the company come from responsibly managed forests providing environmental, social, and economic benefits. This year has also seen Claremon introduce strict rules for recycling and reducing waste in its quest for Net Zero by 2030. *It all makes sound commercial sense too," adds John. "It gives us a real sense of purpose to combine our business objectives with giving something back and playing an active role in making our world a cleaner and safer place to be."

BDO expands Expat team with regional hire

Mark is an experienced dual qualified UK/US tax advisor with over 14 years’ experience in expatriate areas, including inbound/ outbound advisory US to UK and UK to US, UK/US resident considerations, and streamlined filing for noncompliant US individuals.

At BDO, he will primarily be responsible for assisting US individuals who are moving to, or who are based in the UK, to

navigate the complexities of both the UK and US tax systems, allowing the individual to be tax efficient in both countries.

Mark will be part of the firm’s North Region Expat team.Ben Tarry, tax partner said: “Mark is a fantastic addition to our Expat team.His appointment marks an exciting opportunity for the firm, as we look to unlock significant potential in the regional markets.

Mark’s experience in areas such as expatriation of US individuals and relevant tax compliance, will be vital in helping us to build our presence outside of London.”

window to take advantage of this ‘amnesty’ will be closed in the future.

Currently, there is an opportunity for US residents based in the UK to utilise the Streamlined Foreign Offshore Procedures, in order to become compliant with their US tax obligations. However, the

He added: “I’m delighted to be joining an ambitious and enthusiastic team, as we look to enhance our US personal tax and Expat offering across key UK regions.”

Mark commented: “Navigating complex dual tax systems can be a daunting and complicated process for any US individual based in the UK – particularly for those who establish they are ‘accidental Americans’ and need to meet their obligation to be compliant with US tax. We’re looking to assist those who face these complexities and help them to navigate this process knowing they are in safe hands throughout.”

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Nominations open for Leeds Digital Festival Awards 2022

One of the region’s most prestigious technology awards has officially opened for 2022 nominations and is calling for Yorkshire’s finest, most innovative digital businesses to enter.

Hosted in partnership with Amsource, a specialist recruitment consultancy focused on the tech sector, and Ward Hadaway, a top 100 UK law firm with offices in Leeds, the awards celebrate the talent, creativity and sheer brilliance of the region’s tech startups, SMEs and large businesses. The awards recognise innovation spanning a number of categories including export success, entrepreneurship, sustainability and more.

Andrew Maeer, founder and CEO, Amsource, said: “We’re delighted to announce that entries for this year’s Leeds Digital Festival Awards are officially open and are looking forward to recognising the innovation and skills among our regional business tech community. These awards not only

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champion talent and originality, they also celebrate the resilience, grit, razorsharp focus and dogged determination shown by tech businesses across the region. We’re looking forward to a fantastic awards night, raising a glass to Yorkshire’s finest digital businesses.”

Running for the fifth consecutive year, the awards are free to enter and there are 10 categories to choose from. Facilitator of the Year is back in the mix, with a sustainability award category making its debut this year.

Other categories include Entrepreneur of the Year, Best Tech Place to Work, and a Tech4Good award.

Bill Goodwin, head of IP/IT at Ward Hadaway Leeds, said: “Ward Hadaway works with a wide range of SMEs in the

regional technology space, supporting them on all kinds of business-related legal issues. We’ve experienced firsthand the great skills, ambition and commercial acumen the region’s digital businesses have and the awards celebrate these achievements and more. It’s wonderful that all of this ingenuity and talent is homegrown, right here in Yorkshire, and I can’t wait to hear the stories of success and journeys to continued growth at the awards ceremony.” The judging panel consists of Eve Roodhouse, who leads on culture and economic development at Leeds City Council, Anna Sutton, founder of The Data Shed, which helps organisations optimise the data they hold, Sarah Hex, head of deal origination for Mercia Asset Management PLC and Alina Cameron who works for Tech Nation to support Yorkshire’s game-changing founders and leaders. The deadline for entry is Monday, August 18 at midnight.

Entries are free and businesses can enter multiple categories. The awards ceremony will take place on Thursday 29th September at Belgrave Music Hall, Leeds City Centre and is also free to attend. The Leeds Digital Festival is an open, collaborative celebration of digital culture in all its forms with the awards recognising all that is great about the digital and tech industry in Leeds and the wider region in the last year.

Stuart Clarke, director of the Leeds Digital Festival, added: “The Leeds Digital Festival Awards celebrates its 5th birthday this year and we’d like to invite tech businesses in Leeds and the wider region to enter the awards, choosing from a diverse range of categories.

It’s an opportunity to put Yorkshire businesses centre stage and highlight the achievements and innovation that we have here right on our doorstep.”

To enter the awards, please visit: https:// leedsdigitalfestivalawards.org//awards

Firm completes work on £1.75m mattress manufacturing facility as a leading name in British-made mattresses, serving the UK market and expanding its presence internationally.

Not only do we have a number of popular brands within our portfolio, we have also become one of the largest indirect suppliers of medical mattresses to the NHS, based on our reputation for quality and service.

An eight-month project to create a brand new 40,000sq ft factory and warehouse in West Yorkshire is now fully operationally, enabling the fast-growing mattress division of GNG Group to increase mattress production capacity by more than 300 percent. The £1.75m investment is expected to create at least another 20 jobs this year and a further 30 in 2023.

GNG Group, which manufactures performance foam products for the healthcare, sports, safety, consumer, and contract mattress sectors, has seen rapid expansion in recent years, particularly in its medical and consumer mattress division which includes the Komfi vacuum-packed mattress brand.

In response to ongoing demand, it has relocated from a 25,000sq ft manufacturing site in Wakefield, to the newly refurbished facility in Normanton, regenerating the site that lay dormant for years.

In line with the company’s commitment

to finding environmentally friendly solutions, the new 40,000sq ft factory and warehouse is equipped with low-energy lighting. Solar power and electric forklift trucks will also be introduced soon. Having achieved carbon neutral certification in 2019, GNG is planning additional investment in machinery to maximise production and efficiency in order to further reduce its carbon footprint.

Group managing director Darren Potterton, who is spearheading the company’s expansion, explained: "With a heritage of more than 40 years, GNG has established itself

“Given our expertise in the sector, combined with a skilled in-house product development team and the latest equipment, the mattress division is in a strong position to build on our position in the market with our new dedicated manufacturing facility giving us significant additional capacity. At a time of huge disruption and uncertainty within the global supply chain, we are finding that more customers here are turning to a British manufacturer they can rely on, so it’s more important than ever that we are able to continue to provide fast and efficient lead times.”

Sales director Stuart Hibbert said: "Since relaunching the Komfi mattress brand in the UK in 2020, there’s been a 70 percent uplift in sales, and, following our acquisition of The Foam Company earlier this year, we have also expanded our range with the addition of the Sonlevo brand. It’s a really exciting time for the business and this latest investment will enable us to continue to drive the market forward by improving standards in product innovation and performance, including providing eco-friendly alternatives to traditional mattresses.”

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From royal palaces to movie sets By: Gil l Lai d le r - Edi to r Topi cUK -Im a ges: An d re w s o w n

When he was growing up, celebrity hair stylist Andrew Barton looked forward to Friday evenings when he would wait for his mum and grandma after school, outside the local hair salon in his hometown of Barnsley. The salon belonged to the mother of Andrew’s school friend Donna who attended Barnsley Art College studying design, history and material culture.

Andrew left his local comprehensive with no qualifications but has made up for that over the years gaining a number of professional qualifications.

designing fabric. This is actually how I think about hair, it’s a fabric that I can design and create something beautiful, fashionable and confidence boosting for my clients I see in salon.”

“Coming from a working-class family, work ethics were part of our upbringing, something that I am grateful for,” Andrew told us. “My first jobs were as a teenager delivering newspapers for our local newsagent and delivering meat on Saturday’s for the local butcher. Even back then I took great pride in my work and relished the responsibility.

Little did he know when he started a hairdressing apprenticeship in his hometown his career would take him all around the world from royal palaces to movie sets, the catwalk shows of the fashion capitals to appearing on television as the ‘make-over hair expert’.

“I’ve lived outside Yorkshire longer than I lived there, making London my home, but I am very proud of my Northern “I wasn’t particularly academic at school, roots and have never lost my Northern but I did enjoy art and design with accent which I actually cherish. Despite my teacher encouraging this. Those many of the glamourous things I have skills were what ultimately led me to experienced in my career, it’s working become a hairdresser, that and those with clients at the salon that is most days waiting for my mum and grandma,” rewarding. Making someone feel and he continued, “but initially I wanted look great is a huge gift and makes to become a surface pattern designer, me happy by making someone else

happy,” he continued.

Andrew has spent most of his career working with large hairdressing groups in the UK, generally heading up the creative direction, brand delivery and training. “Training others is a huge aspect of my work and I find it very rewarding,” he said. “Much of my focus today is on my ABLE (Andrew Barton London Education) training programme that is delivered in further education colleges across the UK, including both Castleford and Wakefield in Yorkshire.”

The ABLE scholarship programme guides trainee hairdressers to be salon ABLE and ABLE for employment as well as supporting teacher training colleges.

His career has taken him around the world and onto television screens but giving back to his industry is what motivates Andrew, encouraging the next generation of hairdressers to be the best they can be. “I was honoured five years ago to be awarded an Honorary Doc D Arts by Southampton Solent University for services to the industry, the first time this was ever awarded to a hairdresser. I may have left school with no qualifications but carving a career as a stylist has given me a huge amount of

Fancy having your hair cut by Andrew.

You could win a haircut with the stylist to the stars Andrew, to the value of £229. To be in with a chance of winning all you have to do is drop me an email and tell me where beehives, bobs and blowdries are launching in Yorkshire. Entries should be sent to editor@topicuk.co.uk by the closing date of Friday 30th September. The prize must be used by 1st December 2022. * *There is no cash prize alternative. Travel to and from Andrew’s salon is not included and the prize is not transferrable. The winner will be the first entry drawn from the bag and the editor’s decision is final. No responsibility is accepted by TopicUK for this prize

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pleasure. I’m often asked if my career is difficult to succeed in. I think it’s more about an individual’s attitude to succeed and of course the people you surround yourself with. I am really lucky that I have worked with some great teams of people throughout my career and together we have achieved great results. One of these people is Donna Bevan, my co-creator of BEEHIVES BOBS AND BLOWDRIES, an exhibition which we are launching at The Piece Hall in Halifax in September.”

Many people will remember the days that he appeared on our television screens. “I first started working on TV as a makeover guest expert on the Lorraine Kelly breakfast show which was great fun and where I became great friends with the show’s fashion expert Mark Heyes,” Andrew told us. “This led me to being approached to work as the resident hairdresser on the hit TV show ’10 Years Younger’ on Channel 4 which we filmed for over eight years and became a huge export appearing on television screens across the world.

“The challenge of a makeover is always

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fun, but the dynamic of creating a TV The charity takes in hair donations from show and working with the contributors people who have long hair then it is is exciting and something I love. made into wigs and donated to children Makeover is amazing and to have the who have lost their hair through cancer opportunity to change how someone treatments. The charity brings so much looks and feels about themselves is so happiness to others going through a special.” Andrew also appears regularly difficult time. on Sky TV as a hair expert, commenting on hairstyles on anything from royal “I love the diversity that working in events to award seasons. “I’m also on the industry brings. One day I’m in speed dial to the British beauty press,” the salon with clients and the next I he added, “and it’s always fun to have will be teaching others how to be the the opportunity to comment and offer best they can be or creating hair for a advice to people about hair, after all, photographic image. That said, home is that’s the one outfit we never take off!” very comforting, and my job often takes me away from home and this grates Andrew works with a number of on me, but I do always embrace the charities that have a personal meaning opportunities that come my way. There to him, including Coram/ The British have been many highlights (pardon the Association of Adoption & Fostering pun) in my career. Being named the where he is a patron. “I was adopted British Hairdresser of the Year in front as a child and believe without this; my of my peers and mum in a swanky Park life could have been very different. I Lane awards ceremony and given an am forever grateful for the love and the Honorary Doctorate and speak at the upbringing of my adoptive parents and graduation ceremony. I think the thing family and I am thrilled I am able to that I am most proud of is walking create awareness of this amazing charity. down an aisle of a supermarket and I also work with The Little Princess seeing my signature haircare brand Trust as the Hairdresser Ambassador. on the shelves, I think WOW, you’ve

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come a long way Mr Barton and give myself a quiet pat on the back!”

meditations each day to focus on the amazing things that happen each day.”

and of course wigs styled by me for the particular era.”

So, what is a typical day like for Andrew?

“There isn’t such a thing as a typical day, as they are all different but each one starts with exercise. This is the one thing, as well as a regular food eating pattern, I have to fit into my day. I realise that through the power of exercise and how it works for me physically and mentally, is vital to how I am. At my next Birthday I will be 56 and feel today as I did when I was a young man. I guess age has given me an understanding of appreciating all that I have and by doing simple

So, what’s next? “I am so excited to be partnering with my friend Donna Bevan to launch BEEHIVES BOBS AND BLOWDRIES. We are currently working on plans for this unique exhibition to tour the UK after it’s showcase in Yorkshire. As the name suggests, the exhibition takes visitors through 70 years from the 1950s. It will tell the story of hairdressing over the years and its impact on technology, community, fashion and industry.

We have vintage salon furniture and mannequins wearing vintage clothing

The exhibition opens at The Piece Hall on 17th September and runs until 15th October, before packing up and heading off around the UK. “I am so excited and of course delighted that this project will open in my home county of Yorkshire.”

FACT FILE

Partner: We will marry on July 23rd, 2023 in a lavish celebration with family and dear friends in the Sussex Downs.

What car do you drive? Mercedes convertible, nothing better than “roof off days” What do you do in your leisure time?

Whether it’s swimming, running, gym sessions or yoga exercise is my time for me and time meditating that fuels me on every level including creatively.

Where is your favourite holiday destination? We adore travel and the experiences that brings. I’ve always enjoyed having “choice’ in how I work but this sometimes means weeks without any down time but building holidays and down time into the diary is key.

Where is your favourite restaurant?

How do I answer this one when there are so many? We live in both London and Brighton (Hove actually). In London it has to be JIKONI by Ravinder Boghal (she’s a friend and client) you

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may have seen her on TV or red her books, her food is quite simply divine.

I love seafood but don’t eat meat and when in Brighton our favourite is RIDDLE & FINNS seafood restaurant of which there are two restaurants, one in the lanes very cosy in winter and one at the beach perfect for long summer lunches. When I’m in Yorkshire I often stay at DAKOTA HOTEL in Leeds and have enjoyed some wonderful food and cocktails there with friends.

What is your favourite food and drink? Either vegetarian or seafood.

I know it’s not everyone’s thing but fresh oysters in season with a cool Chablis … delicious. Cocktail of choice either a classic, James Bond Vodka Martini shaken not stirred with a twist or a Negroni.

Where is your favourite holiday destination? We sail so a yacht holiday in the Adriatic is perfect for us. Earlier this year my partner took me to Iceland where we had the most wonderful times and our honeymoon next year is on safari. We’re always

Andrew will also be joining Yorkshire Businesswoman at Grantley Hall on 16th September for our afternoon tea and fashion show networking event.

planning a trip. I do also love a sundrenched beach, so The Maldives is tick list fav.

Where is your favourite place in Yorkshire? I'm a huge fan of The Yorkshire Sculpture Park it’s so close to where I grew up so is always a must visit no matter what the weather. I’m a patron of The Piece Hall and this magnificent historic building just wows me and admire all of the independent traders there that echo the buildings heritage of independent cloth traders.

I’m very proud to be a Yorkshireman What is your favourite gadget? That’s funny and a standing joke in our home … I’m so tech phobic and still keep a pair diary. I adore stationery.

What couldn’t you live without?

Love brings so much to life! And our dog Ruby Beagle check her out on my Instagram.

Follow Andrew on Instagram: @Andrew_barton_hair @beehivesbobsandblowdries

Agency in the spotlight:

Youbee Media Ltd Since May 2021, over 4.75million young people have started an apprenticeship in the UK. With more competition looking for an ‘on the job education’, it can seem as though the same people are fighting for an opportunity in a top agency. So how do you make yourself stand out from the crowd? Sophie Mei Lan sits down with recent apprenticeship graduate, Emma Pearson from Youbee Media to find out.

So, Emma – can you tell us a bit about yourself?

Yes, I’m Youbee’s digital marketer and I’ve been with the team for around 18 months. I live just outside of Leeds and have a passion for creating content on social media. My interest in marketing ignited in school when I studied Business and Media at A Level and since then, my curiosity has continued to grow.

What attracted you to work at Youbee Media?

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Before my apprenticeship began, I was presented with other job opportunities. However, Youbee Media really stood out. With no previous office experience, I felt a smaller business was the path to take. I could also see the passion from Rebecca, and I knew that with a friendly, welcoming employer I would feel completely comfortable in my first job role. There’s so much potential growth in not only me and my role, but also where the business could go.

I have already done so much more in my career than I thought I would do.

What’s next for you?

I’m proud to say that I’ve recently bee n promoted to marketing executive, which is really exciting.

I will be able to develop my skills, work on business development and continue learning. The opportunities at Youbee Media are endless as the team is growing so quickly. I’m really excited to support Youbee Media’s growth, strengthen relationships with clients and develop new relationships with professionals in our network.

What advice would you give to someone looking to start an apprenticeship in Digital Marketing?

From this apprenticeship I’ve learnt that when challenges arise, you shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help and use the experience of those around you. Being in a small team has really helped me to reach out, learn from others and have autonomy in my role. An apprenticeship can be invaluable at the start of your career, but you definitely get out of it what you put in.

HERITAGE TRADE CULTURE Discover Britain’s only surviving cloth hall carefully reimagined as a home for events, shopping, dining & heritage altogether inside one spectacular building.

The Piece Hall, Halifax, HX1 1RE thepiecehall.co.uk 01422 525200 The Piece Hall is a registered charity number 1156948

Supported by

Construction firm rejuvenates primary school garden in York Volunteers from Henry Boot Construction and their partners worked alongside enthusiastic schoolchildren to renovate St George’s Garden of Remembrance in central York.

St George’s RC Primary School & Nursery, a school for children aged 3-11, is located near Henry Boot’s Cocoa Works construction site, which is seeing the historic Rowntree Factory transformed into 279 characterful apartments.

The school’s Garden of Remembrance had become wildly overgrown, with overhanging branches making the garden unsuitable for the children to use.

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The construction company provided all the required tools and equipment needed to help revitalise the once cherished green space, and ensured that all the volunteers, including children and teachers, looked the part and could work in a safe way.

They also provided compost, bark, a well-deserved lunch for everyone, and a range of beautiful new plants to decorate the reclaimed space.

Henry Boot Construction was joined on

the day by volunteers from Framedeck, IHE Demolition, Benchmark and Clarion Housing Group. The volunteers, armed with their tools and a jet wash from Banner Plant, spent a fulfilling day cutting back shrubbery and stray tree limbs. Dee Statham, headteacher of the school & nursery, said: “The team have completely transformed the Garden of Remembrance and it is now well used at lunchtimes by the children. It’s made a huge difference and the children love having a quiet place to just sit and think.

It was a brilliant day and we can’t thank the team and volunteers enough.”

Andy Greaves, senior project Manager, from Henry Boot Construction, said: “We’re hugely committed to giving back to the communities in which we operate, and this local school project was a really rewarding one for our volunteers. Green space is really important in big cities and every child should have access to an attractive and welcoming quiet space where they can reflect and relax during their day.”Steven Graham, Community liaison manager at Clarion Housing Group, said: ”We really enjoyed getting stuck in alongside Henry Boot, supply chain volunteers and everyone from the

Eddisons makes trio of senior promotions

Mark Czajka

Matthew Jennings

Michael Peel

Property group Eddisons, whose UK headquarters are in Leeds, has i n t h e U K a n d w e made three senior-level promotions across its Yorkshire offices as part currently employ over of a strategy for growth which has also seen the firm complete five 360 people nationally. acquisitions since 2019. In the current round of promotions, across its 25 UK offices, Eddisons has promoted a total of nine members of “A s a n e m p l o y e r w e staff to director and a further two to associate director. the building belie ve in nurturing talent, from our reaching its peak height.

In Leeds, Michael Peel and Mark Czajka, who both work in Eddisons’ business sales team, have been made directors. The pair work for Ernest Wilson, the agency that buys and sells small businesses such as restaurants, care homes and caravan sites across the UK , which was acquired by Eddisons in 2019.

Based in Eddisons’ Bradford office, Matt Jennings has been promoted from senior surveyor to associate director. Matt

joined the firm in 2018 after serving as head of property for the former Greenwoods Menswear.

Managing director Anthony Spencer said: “Congratulations to Matt, Mark and Michael as well as to the other eight colleagues we have promoted across the country. Eddisons is now one of the fastest growing property firms

ambitious apprenticeship programme to helping staff at all le vels to progress, and this latest raft of promotions is testament to the success of that focus. Our strong and brilliant team of employees, who share the firm’s passion for always going the extra mile for our diverse client base, are central to our plans to continue to grow the business over the coming months and years.”

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Do you need to pay HMRC this month?

By: Rebecca Davison, head of tax at Parsons Accountants

as well as up, depending on how much you earned that year.

The benefits of not leaving selfassessment until January

Director and head of tax at Parsons Accountants in York, Here at Parsons, we like to get everyone’s Rebecca Davison, gives a timely reminder about tax self-assessment tax return in well before payments due this month.

the 31 January deadline. Most of the information we need to do the return is available earlier in the year, so returns don’t need to be left to the last minute.

Who wants to spend their Christmas holiday working through the details of their tax return?!

If you’re self-employed or a director of a limited company you’ll be familiar with self-assessment – the way HMRC gathers information on your income.

Most people know you need to make a personal tax payment in January, but many forget there’s also a July deadline if you have to make two payments a year.

The benefit to the individual is knowing how much tax you’ll need to pay much sooner than if you leave it until the last minute. If your tax return is submitted on 31 January, you’ll need to make your first payment the same day.

Why would I make two tax payments a year?

If your personal tax liability is more than £1,000, you have to pay HMRC in advance – what’s known as payments on account. This means you make two personal tax payments a year, one by the end of January and one by the end of July.

liability for the previous tax year plus 50% again on top in the January, and further 50% in July – effectively paying double the tax that year.

As many people don’t save money for their tax bill all year round, having a bit more notice can make planning cash flow much easier. And if you’re due a refund because you paid too much tax last year, you’ll get that sooner too.

Once you’ve taken that pain though, you already have money on account, so you just pay 50% in January and 50% in July, This can be a big thing the first year you with the amounts adjusted based on Finally, if you want a mortgage or to have to make payments on account, what you’ve previously paid and what borrow money for which you’ll need because you have to pay all of your tax your actual tax liability is. It can go down to prove your income, getting your tax return in will mean you have the most up-to-date information to hand when you need it.

To get help with your tax return, or professional advice about how to limit your tax liabilities, get in touch with the friendly Parsons team by calling the York office on 01904 925300 or Wakefield office on 01924 669500.

To learn more, call us on 01924 669 500 or visit www.parsons.co.uk

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THE YORKSHIRE COAST

By: Charlie Hopper

Construction Skills Village electrical apprentices Ethan Fenwick, Josh Levy, Dylan Priestley, Reece Armstrong.

Why the government needs the apprentice army of the construction skills village…

The government is still sticking to its ambitious target of 300,000 new homes a year by the mid 2022s, despite all analysis that says such an aim is unrealistic.

There are currently more 100 a p p r e n t i c e s a t t h e No r t h e r n Regeneration site called Scarborough Construction Skills Village.

A parliamentary committee says the of improving housing levels in this mechanisms are just not in place to region at least, it will need to rely fill the housing shortage. on the likes of apprentices at a Scarborough base which combines If the government has any chance education and trades.

They will become the new bricklayers, joiners, plasterers, plumbers, electricians and groundworkers, trained to nationally-accredited standards.

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THE YORKSHIRE COAST

Picture by Scott Ratcliffe

The site is also open to unemployed people or anyone wanting a career change or to upskill.

It offers free fully-funded plant training for construction workers who want to move into more highly-paid employment.

“The people we are supporting will be playing a role to help tackle the skills gap,” said Mr Ratcliffe.

The new wave of apprentices will help to fill the huge gaps for housebuilding and maintenance – and supporting the area’s trades people and building companies.

Electrical apprentice Josh. Picture by Scott Ratcliffe

The apprentices are based at Middle Deepdale, Eastfield, off the A64, where they learn from experienced trainers and assessors while working alongside trades people on local developments.

through apprenticeships and forging relationships with builders.”

He paid tribute to the support of Scarborough Borough Council and North Yorkshire County Council a n d t h e S c a r b o r o u g h To w n Deal board which has allocated £500,000 under the government's levelling-up Towns Fund.

One of the apprentices is Dylan Priestley, of 21, who studied business and sport at college.

While undertaking the electrical tuition at the skills village, he is an apprentice to qualified Scarborough electrician Paul Huggins, a member of the Scarborough RNLI crew member who offered free electrical repair services to the elderly and vulnerable during covid.

Town Deal chairman David Kerfoot said after a visit to the skills village: “What a project - using local supply chains, helping youngsters

Dylan said: “I wanted to get an apprenticeship rather than go to university. I’m now developing a career for life.”

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The coastal students in the world top three

A trio of students from the Yorkshire coast are celebrating after being awarded a top three place in the world F1 in Schools challenge.

Scarborough University Technical College (UTC) students were awarded the accolade of overall Third Place from the four-day international event at Silverstone.

The top place was won by Australia but the Scarborough students were also runners-up in the Pit Display Award and won the Project Management Award.

They competed against teams from America, Canada China, India, Greece, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia and Brazil and Ireland.

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Missy McArdle, Libby Atkin and Alex Jenkin were applauded for their “excellent understanding and professional skills” as they collected the trophy for best project management.

The 2022 Aramco finals involved hundreds of students from 52 teams across 23 countries.

She won the top award last October for Girls on Track UK, a scheme to encourage more female students to consider careers in engineering and motorsport.

Libby, 17, project manager, hopes to take an aerospace engineering management degree.

Alex Jenkin, 18, is the engineer in the team and will be undertaking an apprenticeship degree with the Ministry of Defence as a mechanical engineer.

Alex Jenkin, Missy McArdle, Libby Atkin

They were tested on their engineering skills in creating an air-propelled miniature racing car and on their management, financial and marketing strategy.

“The team produced outstanding work, with an amazing portfolio of professional quality,” said Ashley Dalton Forsyth, of the Project Management Institute Education Foundation in making the presentation for the Best Application of Project Management.

The Scarborough teenagers won through to the finals after being crowned UK national winners last autumn.

The UTC Avidity Racing team is sponsored by the Scarborough Business Ambassadors, along with companies such as Anglo American, Carter Bearings, BDC Machinery, Blue Raptor Signs, Nissan, IGUS and McCain Foods.

The trio had to create a sustainable, aerodynamic F1 car on a 1/20th scale and race along a 20-metre track in just over one second.

F1 in Schools was established 21 years ago to help develop research, design and manufacturing skills for young people.

It is the biggest science and technology initiative offered to students worldwide.

The event is linked with the international F1 championship and was founded by Andrew Denford, who runs an engineering facility in near Brighouse, West Yorkshire.

Missy, 18, Libby, 17 and Alex, 18, attended the Silverstone event in July with Rob Shephard, UTC Director of Engineering.

Missy is aiming to take an MSc degree in Motorsport Engineering at Oxford Brookes University.

UTC principal Lee Kilgour said: “For Missy, Alec and Libby and our Director of Engineering Rob Shephard, this is an amazing award which reflects their dedication, hard work, long hours and their incredible talent."

FACTFILE FACTFILE •Formula Formula 1 in Schools spans 1 in Schools spans age ageranges rangesfrom fromnine ninetoto1919totohelp change the perceptions of science, help change the perceptions technology, engineering and maths of science, technology, by creating a funand and exciting engineering maths learning by environment for young people creating a fun and exciting learning environment •for young It people encourages an informed view about careers in engineering and isItaencourages not-for-profit company established an informed to provide vie w a ban o uexciting, t c a re echallenging rs in educational e n g i n e eexperience ring and is a not-for-profit company •established F1 in Schools is the only to provide global multi-disciplinary challenge in an exciting, challenging which the students deploy CAD/CAM educational experience digital software to collaborate, design, analyse, manufacture, test, and race F1 in Schools is the only global miniature compressed air-powered multi-disciplinary challenge cars madethe fromstudents F1 modeldeploy block in which CAD/CAM digital software to collaborate, design, analyse, manufacture, test, and race miniature compressed airpowered cars made from F1 model block

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September showtime for the staycationers

A stunning September line-up at Scarborough Spa is aiming to make the most of the waves of staycation holidaymakers this year.

Among the shows is Sinderella, an adult panto with what it describes as "the most magical, naughty tale of them all".

Billed as a spectacular evening of glittering entertainment, it features some of the most popular West End productions.

Under the guidance of Fairy Drag Mother, Janey Jacke (Drag Race Holland Season 1) and Buttons Davey Hopper (Little Willy in Rapunzel 2021), Hundini, David Potts (Ibiza Weekender) are on the hunt for Sinderella's slipper.

The cast of singers and dancers have worked their way around the world performing on cruise ships, casinos, TV, stage and screen.

There is also Razzle Dazzle, presented

by Tony Peers Productions for its 20th summer season.

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Re-scheduled from the previous dates of September 2020 and 2021 due to covid, Back to Bacharach celebrates the masterpieces of “The Hitmaker” behind one of the most memorable hits

that stand the test of time. Among them are Alfie, What The World Needs Now, The Look Of Love, I Say A Little Prayer, Close To You, Walk On By, What's New Pussycat, Always Something There To Remind Me, Magic Moments, Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head and many, many more.

The Johnny Cash Roadshow will appear at The Spa Theatre, the only show to be endorsed by the Cash family.

This year award-winning Clive John pays homage to Cash’s career as the Man In Black, alongside wife June Carter (Meghan Thomas).

With hits such as Walk the Line, Ring

Family - selling over 15 million albums with singles Ocean Drive, High, Lost in Space, Raincloud - and Deniece Williams with Free, Let's Hear it For The Boy, That's What Friends Are For and Too Much, Too Little, Too Late.

In the Grand Hall, the 19th Scarborough Jazz Festival will also take place again in the Spa's stunning September programme.

Scarborough Dine and Dance welcomes people to the Spa's Ocean Room who love to combine dining with ballroom and sequence dancing.

of Fire, Get Rhythm, Orange Blossom Special and Boy Named Sue alongside some of the darker more atmospheric songs from the later American Recordings such as The Man Comes Around and Hurt, this year’s show is a roller-coaster through Cash’s career.

Also continuing their historic appearance in September and celebrating their 110th year is the Spa Orchestra, playing eight concerts per week from Sunday to Thursday.

There is also for the summer staycationers, Endless Love, a feelgood show celebrating the music of Lionel Richie and Diana Ross.

With a live band, the show is packed with Motown classics and smash hits such as I’m Coming Out, Dancing On The Ceiling’, Upside Down, Say You Say Me, Chain Reaction, All Night Long, Ain’t No Mountain High Enough, Can’t Hurry Love and more.

Giants of Soul will feature some of the most successful soul performers from the late 70s through to the modern day. Award-winning Angie Greaves from Smooth Radio will host Tunde Baiyewu – the voice of The Lighthouse

For families wanting to avoid airport and holiday luggage queues and heading to the coast with young children, there is also the Scarborough Spa Orchestra Teddy Bear's Picnic in The Suncourt are aimed at introducing young children to music and musical activities.

Fo r t i m e s , d a te s a n d prices, see https://www. scarboroughspa.co.uk/ TopicUK August 2022

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Shared values make for great connections We all know that networking is great for business – a way to build mutually beneficial relationships, promote your brand and grow your business.

Most businesses also recognise the importance of corporate social responsibility, although smaller organisations can struggle to justify the cost or time implications of investing in their wider community.

and families living with the loss of their child.

Lesley Dutton, growth manager at Virgin Money, joined Forget Me Not’s 99er business club last year.

But sometimes it’s possible to “My role at Virgin Money is to network and fulfil your CSR objectives grow the brand in Leeds and the at the same time, in a way that’s easy, surrounding area, connecting with the community, charities and local inexpensive and rewarding. businesses. I was aware of Forget Forget Me Not children’s hospice Me Not and it was a cause that runs a networking group for local resonated with me, so when I met businesses, large and small, to come one of the charity’s fundraisers, I together and build valuable long- wanted to get involved.” term relationships. Called the 99er business club (because membership With the pandemic preventing the costs as little as 99p a day!), it has 99er business club from meeting in over 100 members who, together, person, Virgin Money stepped in have raised nearly £1million over to help by hosting regular virtual the last 10 years to help the charity networking events for Forget Me support local children with life- Not, which proved to be very shortening conditions, their families popular with the 99ers.

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“But,” Lesley says, “it was so lovely to meet everybody for the first time face-to-face, when restrictions eased.

It was like meeting your family, like a family gathering. I think that’s because we share the same values, we all feel the same about the charity and the good work it does and we’re all keen to support it – and each other.

Being part of the 99er business club fits with our organisational strategy of reaching out to local communities, plus it’s an easy way to support an amazing cause and to meet other like-minded people. It’s also great fun!”

With social events, interesting guest speakers, a quarterly newsletter, discounts on events and challenge participation, fundraising support and member-to-member discounts, there’s plenty to enjoy as a 99er business club member.

If you’d like to find out more about how it could help your business as well as Forget Me Not, please email Charlie Roebuck at charlie.roebuck@ forgetmenotchild.co.uk.

Membership costs just £10 a month for the first year.

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The benefitsof fermented skincare By: Jane t Mi lner-Wal k er - Fo u n d er of Bespok e Ad v an tag e

Let’s be honest … fermentation doesn’t sound like something you want to apply to your face. Whilst there are many synergies between the food industry and the beauty industry – ingredients, packaging, science, fragrances, and flavours to name but a few, fermentation is probably not high on your list of benefits you are looking for when seeking out your next moisturiser.

But perhaps it should be. Fermentation is more often associated with food products, and their benefits for our gut health. Sauerkraut and kimchi are both examples of fermented products, which contain high levels of live bacteria (known as probiotics) that break down in the gut to restore balance and to support digestive health. It is not only gut health that fermented ingredients are good for, but they are also good for the health of our skin.

Fermented beauty products are nothing new, hailing from Korea and Japan, you have probably been using fermented beauty products for some time, without even knowing this. Fermentation

is a metabolic process in which compounds are broken down by micro-organisms such as bacteria and yeast, into smaller compounds.

It occurs in the absence of oxygen (anaerobic conditions), and in the presence of beneficial microorganisms (yeasts, moulds, and bacteria) that obtain their energy through the fermentation process. During the fermentation process, these beneficial microbes break down sugars and starches into alcohols and acids.

Fermented skincare is rich in healthy bacteria and probiotics and can support the skin in balancing and strengthening microorganisms that make up our skin’s microbiome. One of the biggest difficulties for a skincare product with a large molecular size is to penetrate deep enough into our skin to be able to deliver optimum benefits.

However, with fermentation breaking down larger sized molecules into smaller molecules, the reduction in size aids in absorbing active ingredients to where our skin needs it most.

Sometimes, chemical compounds in a specific extract can irritate our skin type (we have all been there) especially if you have sensitive skin.

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this irritant to reduce its effect on sensitive skin.

There are numerous fermented ingredients from green tea, to mushrooms, sake extract, alpha hydroxy acids to natural extracts created from ingredients such as red ginseng and black tea that can be found in skincare. Glycolic acid, in a natural form, is derived from fruits, plants and sugar cane, and is great for exfoliation and to stimulate cell renewal.

Why use them Some of the most common reasons to seek out beauty products with fermented ingredients include To treat acne Fermented skincare products contain probiotic bacteria that help in maintaining healthy bacteria in the gut and in attacking harmful bacteria in our gut that cause acne.

Keeps us looking younger One of the best benefits of fermented products, is that they help in slowing down the natural ageing process of our skin. Yeast is a form of fermentation that is found in most anti-ageing skincare products and is effective in fighting against skincare infections, containing enzymes that are used extensively in anti-ageing skincare formulations. If you are looking

to achieve a plumper and softer complexion, fermented soy can help boost your skin’s own production of hyaluronic acid. Green tea seed oil has superior moisturising benefits, and the complex fermentation process releases an extra hit of vitamin E, free fatty acids, and polyphenols.

hero product Moisture Surge with fermented aloe vera, which penetrates the skin more easily.

Glossier launched Cleanser C o n c e n t r a te w h i c h c o n t a i n s exfoliating grape ferment, along with lactic and malic acid and niacinamide to brighten, smooth and tighten the skin.

Eczema Eating fermented foods also assists in clarifying and rejuvenating our skin from the inside out. When used in topical skincare, this fermentation process increases the bioavailability of ingredients, which means that they penetrate our skin at a deeper level. This is ideal for anyone with particularly dry skin. Kefir is made from fermented milk and has been found to cure eczema. Fermented skincare products help to strengthen and balance the skin, retain moisture, and improve the PH balance of our skin.

Brands to look out for An increasing number of brands are utilising the wonders of fermented ingredients to create effective, barrierboosting skincare products that help to support a healthy skin microbiome.

Fresh has a cult product called Black Tea Kombucha Facial Treatment – which can be used post-cleansing in the morning and the evening to ensure a hydrated complexion.Clinique launched an updated version of their

Zelen’s has launched Tea Shot Urban Defence Serum, which includes fermented black tea (or kombucha) along with another four types of tea for antioxidant protection.

Sunday Riley’s has launched Pink Drink Essence, which contains prebiotic fermented honey, green tea, and ceramides to help keep your skin strong and luminous.

In case you are not yet sold on fermented ingredients, let me hasten to add that they are not only good for our gut health, and our skincare regime but they also pay benefits to our hair. In China the Yao women have been using fermented rice water on their hair for centuries. It helps increase blood flow to the scalp and hair follicles and is packed with vitamins and amino acids that help to prevent oxidative stress and to boost keratin levels.

Having a long day? Perhaps it is time to relax with a cup of green tea, a bowl of sauerkraut, a rice hair mask, and an exfoliating grape cleanser.

About Janet Milner-Walker Janet is the founder of Bespoke Advantage, a brand management company specialising in developing and launching beauty and wellness brands across the industry from ‘concept to shelf.’ Janet writes on the topics of beauty and wellbeing, she is a speaker, a coach, and a trusted advisor to businesses.

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Bespoke Advantage knows what it takes to build a brand from the ground up and we are now teaching you how to do this too. If you have a great idea for launching a brand in the beauty or wellness industry, join our BeautytoLife® ePlan, and let’s make this happen – www.beautytolife.co.uk

Why you need to take social enterprises seriously By: Sophi e Mei Lan - Crea to r, Spa rk l e Co mmu n i t y Me d ia

We’re moving from an age where business is about the the profile of their passions, work and shareholders to a time where it is about the stakeholders, communities as well as co-producing further projects. welcome to the era of social entrepreneurship Thanks to funding from Wakefield District Health & Care Partnership News (WDHCS) we are providing this training free-of-charge in our first year for a limited number of individuals wishing to become community influencers.

Kath Lindley, CEO of WDHCS said: “We are committed to levelling up the health of people and reducing disparities, not only through funding, but more widely through our funding partnerships.”

Gone are the days where non-profits, business and the communities in which they operate are all separate because in order to prosper we all need one another.

Social enterprises are the bridge between business, people and planet - where we still operate as a business, but we profit for good.

Sparkle Community Media operate as a CIC aka Community Interest Company. When people buy from social enterprises, they are not only getting the product or service but they our adding even more value into the local economy.

Like any business we have found an innovative solution to a problem, but we have an even bigger drive because we don’t aspire to profit for materialistic goods for ourselves, but our profit contributes towards positive social change.

We help organisations who are struggling to connect with their desired audience and share their story in a meaningful way. We do this by training businesses, organisations and communities in a range of digital content creation and communications skills as well as providing these services.

Media is our vehicle to connect people and places to help our communities by campaigning, raising awareness of organisations which can help them and ensuring people feel heard, empowered and motivated as well as providing a space to connect in person as well as online.

Our core project is our community influencer training for community focused organisations and aspiring change-makers in our community to enable them to share their stories and those of others through our community news channels and develop collaborative marketing efforts, raising

We may be a social enterprise, but we still deliver industry standard training, impactful results for everyone involved and we ensure that our work is mutually beneficial for those we serve in our community too.

We can’t wait to combine our love of the communities and organisations we serve with our passion for powerful communication to change lives, minds and the media.

Social enterprises can really combine the best of business with people and planet, so get ready to hear about more CICs at your next networking event. @SophieMeiLan @SparkleCIC #PerfectlyImperfect

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Glamour Rocks

Yorkshire Summer Charity Fashion Gala launches in collaboration with Grantley Hall One of the hottest and opulent nights in the Yorkshire calendar will make it eagerly anticipated debut on Friday 7th July 2023.

Glamour Rocks is Fashion’s Biggest Night Out, see the A-list elite of Yorkshire dust-down their tuxedos and don the most glamorous outfits imaginable to ascend the steps of Grantley Hall, Yorkshire’s most prestigious lifestyle destination.

Glamour Rocks and Grantley Hall are collaborating to create an event of your dreams, a glamorous spectacular, an unrivalled opulent experience, an evening like n o o t h e r, a m e m o r y f o re v e r !

Anyone, who’s anyone will be

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t h e re , a re y o u a t te n d i n g t h e Gala of the Season?

This exclusive charity Fashion Gala will feature a live fashion and beauty show with Chanel and Dior pamper stations. Guests will arrive in style to a red-carpet Champagne drinks reception, celebrating “Cocktail Hour” before walking the red-carpet runway to take their VIP seat for a fine dining experience with a 3-course celebratory dinner, by well-known Grantley Hall head chef. Invited to recline back and enjoy a glamorous fashion

show featuring world-class famous fashion designers and celebrity beauty icons. Guests will sip on Champagne and dance the night away with live entertainment before heading off to the grand finale, the Exclusive VIP After-Show Party in Valeria’s for more Champagne and outrageous fun!

And as we simply cannot wait until next year, Glamour Rocks together with Grantley Hall are delighted to be hosting a luxurious Fashion Preview Party on Saturday 10th December 2022, to launch the inaugural GLAMOUR ROCKS, Yorkshire Summer Charity Fashion Gala, supporting Business Beats Cancer, a Yorkshire charity and international charity Global Angels.

We invite you to an evening of glitz and glamour, dress up in your finest party outfit and join us in the luxurious Valeria’s, Champagne & Cocktail Bar for this high energy, opulent event and to find out more about the fashion show gala dinner being held.

Join us from 8pm for arrival

champagne drinks and canapes.

A fashion preview show will commence at 9pm followed by live entertainment with dancing until the early hours.

Carriages at 1am We e n c o u r a g e y o u t o b o o k quickly as places are limited and fiercely sought after.

BOOK NOW for Fashion Preview Party Glamour Rocks: Fashion Preview Party l Grantley Hall Hotel |... or visit www.glamourrocks. events to book further event options.

To be a Sponsor or Partner and for event details contact organiser, Lisa Darwin E:lisa@ glamourrocks.events

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The hidden jewel of the Yorkshire Dales

Nestling on the banks of the River Skell on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales and encased in beautiful woodland, you will find the spectacular Grantley Hall Hotel, a Grade 11 mansion built in the 17th century. A short drive from the market town of Ripon with its beautiful cathedral, the area also boasts lots to do with both Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal on the doorstep.

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The original part of the hall was built by Thomas Norton during the reign of Queen Anne, to celebrate a family wedding. The original building faced south towards the river and was accessed via the main entrance, which today leads to the Norton Courtyard remaining almost completely intact.

Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries the hall continued to be owned by the Norton family, who continued to extend the original building before the hall changed hands in 1900. With the outbreak of World War 11 the then owner Sir William Aykroyd offered Grantley Hall as a convalescent home for American, Jamaican and Canadian airmen and soldiers. The hall remained as a convalescent home until 1946 and with the death of Sir William and Lady Aykroyd in 1947 the era of a privately owned Grantley Hall ended when it was sold to West Riding County Council, where for the next 50 years would be used as an adult education residential college.

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In 2015 Valeria Sykes and her family purchased Grantley Hall with plans to turn it into a leading luxury hotel in the UK. Costing £70m and taking four years to renovate, Yorkshire Businesswoman editor Gill Laidler and colleague Lisa Darwin who spent 24 hours there recently can confirm that Valeria most definitely succeeded. The hotel and spa opened in 2019 to rave reviews.

This was only my second visit to Grantley Hall, but the impressive welcome was just the same. I was greeted at the gate by the smartly dressed gatekeeper who welcomed me to the estate and directed me to the front of the hotel, following the gravel driveway along the edge of the river to the front of the impressive building where I was greeted by a porter

and valet driver who took away my car and bags, informing me that my room was waiting for me. A swift check in followed and as the weather was beautiful, I opted to wait on the pretty courtyard terrace for Lisa to arrive.

arrived offering water and I opted for a glass of crisp rose wine, Chateau Terrabonne, Cotes de Provence from France, whilst I waited. Lisa arrived 20 minutes later and had enjoyed the same welcome experience as I had.

Lisa and I stayed at the hotel as we wanted to check out all the facilities they offer as we have arranged to hold a Yorkshire Businesswoman networking event, fashion show and afternoon tea there in September which is already sold out and Lisa will hold a glamourous Summer Charity Fashion Gala with them on 7th July 2023, with a Fashion Preview Party on 10th December 2022 to launch Glamour Rocks.

We decided to order lunch which we ate whilst catching up about the forthcoming Yorkshire Businesswoman event, a buttermilk chicken burger served with fries and a side salad, which was served promptly and was delicious.

Comfortably seated, my waiter quickly

Time to check out our room, one of 47 rooms and suites split across the old house and new wing, which they had kindly converted into a twin for us. On a previous visit we had viewed some of the beautiful suites that are situated on the top floor, with emperor sized beds, dining areas and full lounge.

Wandering back to reception we headed through the Norton Bar, named in honour of the hall’s original owner, which boasts a roaring fire, not lit on our visit, low ceilings, dim lighting and wingback armchairs, perfect for a cosy winter evening.

The large reception hall is tastefully decorated with all the charm of a country home where we collected our keys and headed to our room on the first floor.

Passing through several rooms, each decorated differently but all so elegant with bold block furnishings and eclectic collections of art covering the walls with orchids and tropical greenery. Others were traditional and oak panelled. We passed the award-winning spa (more of that later) and headed in the lift to the first floor, or you could opt for the stairs that wrap around a glittering contemporary chandelier, where we were astonished to find another completely different space an atrium with olive trees and marble statuary, it is absolute theatre. Our room was located in the corner of this wonderful space.

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Our room was different again, elegant with a real country house feel, painted in creams and subtle golds with a beautiful vaulted ceiling.

Paintings adorn the walls and even the giant TV hides behind one of them and is revealed at the touch of a button and includes Sky so guests can enjoy movies and sport.

Wooden shelving is stacked with books and Yorkshire guides, making the room feel very homely. As you would expect, complimentary tea and coffee are included but unexpected was the complimentary bottle of fizz, bottle of damson gin, fruit and Lauden chocolates.

The mini fridge was filled with water, soft drinks and milk and all complimentary. Inspecting the room we found white fluffy robes in the wardrobe with slippers but were impressed with the addition of coats boasting Grantley Hall logos that guests can use if the weather is inclement whilst exploring the beautiful grounds, checking out the vegetable patch or viewing the pretty Japanese

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water garden hidden behind the garden pavilion. You can even borrow a pair of wellies!

drawing room or dine in the The Orchard, which will host our event in September.

In the under-floor heated bathroom, we were delighted to find a large double walk in shower and a huge bath, very rare to have both in a hotel room. The room was large and elegant with marble fittings and all the complimentary toiletries you would expect from a quality hotel.

Eighty-Eight is situated across the driveway in a modern building that also hosts the champagne and cocktail bar. This is where those coats would come in useful or the abundance of umbrella’s available by the main reception door, but it was a beautiful balmy evening, so we were able to wander across, taking in the breathtaking gardens along the way.

Although we could have stayed to relax in this fabulous space, we were booked for dinner.

Grantley has an amazing choice when it comes to dining there are four restaurants and three bars, including one Michelin star fine dining restaurant Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall. We were booked into the Asian inspired EightyEight alongside Champagne and cocktail bar Valeria’s named after the owner. Guests can also enjoy refreshments elsewhere in the hotel, afternoon tea in the

Welcomed by friendly and knowledgeable staff, we were soon seated in a cosy booth and offered both the food and wine menu. We ordered a bottle of Le Fief de la Brie, a Muscadet from France which was crisp and delicious as well as reasonably priced at £38.

The restaurant serves a selection of small and large plates as well as lots of sides, so dishes can

be mixed and matched. To start, we settled on Thirkleby Duck Pancakes for two, confit of duck leg served with cucumber and hoisin. Portion were large and equally delicious.

Service was quick and as you would expect, our waitress was ve ry knowledgeable about all the dishes on offer as we challenged her. For the main course, I chose 2 small plates of Teriyaki glazed salmon served with Umeboshi plum, sea lettuce and radish and aromatic chicken tea, herb fed chicken, enoki and lemongrass. Lisa opted for one large plate of dry aged Yorkshire Beef fillet and soy braised short rib with black bean, smoked leek and wild garlic. To accompany, we shared a bowl of XO fried rice and a portion of Kombu roasted new potatoes.

Two tasting menus are also available, one vegan, 8 courses for £70 per person and for £50 you can add on six carefully chosen paired drinks.

Plates cleared and it was time for dessert. Lisa chose the Mango Cheesecake, cream cheese, mango confit on matcha biscuit. For me I chose ice cream, three scoops one each of dark chocolate, Madagascan vanilla and malted milk crunch. The perfect way to round off a simply delicious meal.

sporting the Grantley monogram as most things do across the hotel including the water bottles.

Waking refreshed, it was time to head to Fletchers restaurant for breakfast a smartly decorated room in creams and red with double aspect windows looking out across the pretty gardens. We booked an early start, but it was already busy with other guests. As with most hotels, there is a large selection on offer from buffet continental with fruit, pastries and cereal, to full English.

Served with fresh tea and coffee as well as orange juice, Lisa ordered the full English minus the black pudding and I asked for bacon, sausage, beans and toast, not on the menu but no trouble at all. It’s not often I would

Grantley Hall is one of the most luxurious places I have stayed. The attention to detail is incredible, the staff are friendly, knowledgeable and nothing is too much trouble...

By the time we left the restaurant it had become quite busy. We headed back to the main hotel deciding to retire to the room as we both agreed it had been a busy exhausting day.

have a hot breakfast, finding them too heavy, but this was delicious nonegreasy and cooked to perfection.

I hadn’t slept in a single bed since I was a child, but they were very comfortable with cotton linen and extra thick duvets. We were even offered a pillow menu in advance, so you are able to order your own level of comfort. Bath robes are also available to purchase on departure,

Sadly, it was time for me to leave as I had meetings, so we headed to reception for a smooth check-out with the porter taking our bags to the car. However, as Lisa was to enjoy more of a leisurely morning, she was lucky enough to head to the Three Graces Spa to finish off her stay.

The stunning purpose-built spa is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Likened to a Roman Spa there are pillars, sandstone floors, marble statues and tropical plants. There is a large marblelined pool perfect for swimming while a separate vitality pool has bubble and massage seats with powerful jets to soothe aching muscles. There is a sliding glass door where swimmers can head outside into a steaming outdoor pool or relax in a sunken hot tub. The changing facilities are on another level, with pool slippers and white towel robes inside your locker. The fluffy white towels and array of Malton Brown toiletries make for a real treat. The Spa is tranquil, giving a feeling of holiday and relaxation, other guests are friendly and have wonderful things to say about their stay. Lisa took advantage of the sauna, steam room and outdoor jacuzzi, alongside enjoying a leisurely swim inside and out and relaxed before she managed to tear herself away and back to reality.

The verdict? I think this review speaks for itself. Grantley Hall is one of the most luxurious places I have stayed. The attention to detail is incredible, the staff are friendly, knowledgeable and nothing is too much trouble. Everyone should experience Grantley Hall at some point.

We are lucky enough to be returning again on 16 September when Grantley Hall will play host to a special Yorkshire Businesswoman event. Fifty lucky ladies will join us for sell-out afternoon tea and a special fashion show, choreographed and styled by Lisa, who for the last 25 years has organised FB Fashion Ball in Leeds and who will return to Grantley next year for another special fashion event.

We will be joined in September by some of our amazing partners from Lexus Leeds, Philip Stoner Jewellers, John Lewis, Charlotte Tilbury and more, as well as the fabulous celebrity hairstylist Andrew Barton who will be helping out with model’s hair.

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Yorkshire Children’s charity official launch event to be a royal affair Following its official opening on 1st January 2022, Yorkshire Children’s Charity has announced it will be hosting an exciting and unforgettable celebration at the region’s most prestigious 5-star hotel and spa, Grantley Hall in November.

‘A Night Under the Stars’ will be held on 4th November 2022 - an official launch event for the charity at which Yorkshire Children’s Charity has the privilege of welcoming a Royal Head of State as its honourable guest.

Having already raised over £500,000 in six months to support families and children who are living at a disadvantage, this star-studded event will celebrate an incredible first year, whilst toasting to the future plans of this ambitious regional charity.

The Yorkshire Children’s Charity team has a long-standing connection with this particular Royal family, who has passionately supported children at a disadvantage in the Yorkshire region for over 60 years and is delighted that a representative of their family has agreed to attend.

Yo r k s h i r e C h i l d r e n ’ s C h a r i t y launched at the start of 2022 with the aim of doing things differently and work tirelessly to support the

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92,000 children in Yorkshire with disabilities, and approximately 352,000 of the region’s children who are currently living in poverty.

Supported by Grantley Hall and Berry’s, the event will be held in a breathtakingly beautiful orangery, supplied by The English Marquee Company and dressed by florist to the stars Fulford Flowers. The full event will be designed and styled by the esteemed Party Architect and legendary Royal party planner, Johnny Roxburgh. Johnny has generously donated his services to deliver a spectacular evening of fun for Yorkshire Children’s Charity’s guests.

Featuring a champagne reception, an exceptional four-course banquet designed by Grantley Hall’s Executive Chef, Simon Crannage, a sensational firework display and incredible entertainment including the Yorkshire Symphony Orchestra and more wellknown surprise guests, its set to be an incredible night to remember.

Party Architect and Royal party planner, Johnny Roxburgh, said “This year celebrates one year of Yorkshire Children’s Charity and I’m thrilled to be taking the lead on planning such a special occasion.

The event will welcome famous faces and even Royalty at arguably the most prestigious venue in the region – Grantley Hall. Guests can expect immaculate décor, service and entertainment - it’s going to be a fantastic night which really will change children’s lives in Yorkshire.”

Charlotte Farrington, CEO at Yorkshire Children’s Charity said: ‘We have had an incredible start to the year since our launch in January and I have been blown away by the support from individuals and businesses across Yorkshire. This event is going to be extremely special, and we are incredibly honoured that a Royal Head of State has agreed to attend – it’s such a generous act of kindness.

However, despite all the excitement for what is set to be a spectacular event, above all we are there to raise vital funds for the children in Yorkshire who need our help.

In just the first six months since our launch we have already been able to make a tangible difference to Yorkshire’s most vulnerable children, and fundraising events such as this one will allow us to elevate that important work. Whilst this event presents the opportunity to showcase Yorkshire at its finest, I assure you that we never lose sight of the responsibility we are entrusted with to raise significant funds for the children and young people who depend on us.”

Tickets for ‘A Night Under the Stars’ are priced at £10,000 for a table of ten sold by invitation only. For more information contact hello@ yorkshirechildrenscharity.org

Panellists - (L to R) Dr Yan Wang, John Mills, Caroline Flint, Tom St John, Mike Wilson, Mark Cook copy

Leading industry figures call for ‘manufacturing revival’ S o m e o f t h e c o u n t r y’s foremost manufacturing experts, business leaders, and academics assembled in Wakefield in a unified ‘s h o w o f fo rc e ’ fo r t h e manufacturing industry – and the critical role it can now play in helping the UK overcome the present economic crisis.

In light of runaway inflation and a struggling UK economy, the panel said that manufacturing could be “the key” to rebalancing investment and industry across the country, driving higher levels of GDP growth, creating more well-paying jobs, and increasing British exports abroad.

The panel discussion was held at Sewtec Automation, who partnered with Coventry-based research a n d te c h n o l o g y o r g a n i s a t i o n Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) and cross-party think tank The Institute for Prosperity (JMI). JMI seeks to revive communities, such as

Wakefield, that have suffered from a steep decline in manufacturing over recent decades.

The panel was moderated by former minister and former Labour MP for Don Valley Caroline Flint, who is also the Chair of The Institute for Prosperity.

Caroline Flint said: “We all agreed that manufacturing could be the key to helping the UK overcome its current pressing economic challenges. It can help unlock many of the solutions to the problems that we face as a country.

“We need to make sure that the right policies are put in place to not only protect manufacturers – but to make it pay to site and ‘reshore’ new manufacturing facilities here too. We all agreed that investment in innovation and a confident workforce where young people, especially girls, see a future for themselves working in manufacturing and engineering is especially important.

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“We need to find solutions so that people can see a career in manufacturing from an early age and the jobs and opportunities manufacturing creates in the places they live. Leading manufacturers, like Sewtec, play an important role in the local community, providing high skilled jobs to hundreds of local people, investment in emerging technology, and exporting British made goods.”

The panel included JMI founder

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and economist John Mills, who chairs consumer goods distribution company JML; Mike Wilson, Chief Automation Officer at MTC; Mark Cook, Chairman at Sewtec; Tom St John, Multimedia Editor at The Manufacturer, and manufacturing academic Dr Yan Wang.

John Mills, founder of the Institute for Prosperity, said: “It is clear our manufacturing is in a dire state.

More than 16% of people worked in manufacturing around 20 years ago, but today that number is

closer to 8%. For far too long has the Government run the country in favour of bankers in London rather than makers in Wakefield.

“It is time for root-and-branch change, starting at the heart of how our economy is run. Investment into manufacturing generally leads to more GDP growth than other services sectors, so it’s vital that it’s not forgotten. To rebalance the UK economy, we need to increase manufacturing to 15% of GDP.”

manufacturing at the University of Brighton, highlighted the potential presented to the UK by becoming a l e a d e r i n re m a n u f a c t u r i n g, which is the process of rebuilding ‘as-good-as-new’ products using a combination of reused, repaired, and new parts.

Yan highlighted how remanufacturing would both help the wider economy shorten supply chains whilst assisting the manufacturing sector become more sustainable and hit Net Zero targets.

She noted a recent survey that showed that the remanufacturing sector was increasingly positive about the economic outlook going forward – but said that the remanufacturing sector was held back by a lack of awareness and understanding amongst consumers and other manufacturers.

Mills stressed that to be take n se riously on the global manufacturing stage, drastic changes would have to be made.

One solution to revive the industry was a competitive exchange rate policy. Lowering the value of the Pound, according to Mills, would help reindustrialise the country as British-made goods would be made cheaper and therefore more competitive overseas.

Dr. Yan Wang, Principal Lecturer in

Mike Wilson, Chief Automation Officer at MTC, highlighted the huge potential that automation and robotics presented to the UK industry. He said that more companies were now investigating options to reshore their manufacturing operations because of the higher costs of global shipping – and that adopting automation at all levels of manufacturing in the UK would enable us to continue competing effectively as a manufacturing powerhouse globally.

However, Wilson also warned about the risk of ‘reshoring’ becoming ‘near shoring’, with companies seeking to bring their manufacturing operations closer to the UK from Asia, but still opting for other countries in Europe rather than the UK. He stressed the importance of automation as a ‘competitive advantage’ for UK businesses – and called on the

government to make the UK one of the most attractive places to set-up manufacturing plants.

Mark Cook, Chairman of Sewtec, said that manufacturers, Government, and the wider industry needed to do more to transform perceptions of manufacturing being a ‘dirty and unsafe’ industry to that of being an innovative, high-tech, and cutting-edge sector, like Sewtec’s own leading facility. Having worked closely with schools and universities, Cook highlighted that when young people visited the Sewtec facility they were impressed and excited by the prospect of working in such a high-tech sector – but that they often came in with misconceptions and false impressions about the sector.

Cook also highlighted the need for the Government to incentivise for more companies to invest i n m a n u f a c t u r i n g, e s p e c i a l l y SME companies that might be investing in their first machines and equipment. He urged the Government to consider an extension to the current superdeduction as well as a potential tailored rate of Corporation Tax for manufacturing businesses.

Finally, Tom St John spoke about the countless inspiring manufacturing success stories that he had reported on recently, especially interviewing leading women in the manufacturing sector. He said that more needed to be done to ensure that these British manufacturing success stories were told much more widely on a national level to transform perceptions of how modern manufacturing looks, as well as highlight the incredible female talent in the sector to inspire the next generation of women to join the industry.

TopicUK August 2022

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WACCL was founded by three local businessmen, Tim Welton, Andy Turner and Ian Taylor and has so far raised more than £400,000 for local children’s charities.

John Horvath is the current Chairman and he and the committee are busy planning a very special occasion.

The lunch, which was forced to stop due to the pandemic, made a triumphant return last year to a new venue: Capri at the Vine, on the

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outskirts of Wakefield. Although, a smaller venue the event was just as special with 168 generous party goers raising over £20.6k for local charities.

Proceeds from previous years’ events have been donated to various charities which support children and their families in the Wakefield

District: Levi’s Star. My Burns Club, Star Bereavement, The Laila Milly Foundation and The Performance Academy at Theatre Royal Wakefield.

Tickets cost just £50 and include a sumptuous three course lunch, table magician, entertainment with lots of prizes and fun. All of this in aid of wonderful local causes.

For more information or to book visit the website https://waccl.co.uk/

Registered charity no: 1110457

10TH SEPTEMBER 2022 / PUGNEYS COUNTRY PARK, WAKEFIELD

Unleash your inner dragon!

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In this fun and highly competitive challenge, your team of 16 paddlers (and a drummer to keep the rhythm) will take part in at least three 250m races in dragondecorated boats, cheered on by 100s of spectators.

Could your team do your business proud by bringing home the winner’s trophy?!

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GC Motors Harrogate invests further in property portfolio “Despite the difficulties of the past couple of years we have been extremely fortunate, and our businesses have continued to flourish. Our motor impressive, stand-alone property is now dealership which is one of the largest perfect for progressive businesses such independent sports, prestige motor as solicitors, accountants, IT and media and 4 x 4 dealerships in the country is agencies looking for additional space.” expanding and our property investments are going from strength to strength. We Office suites ranging from 2,616 – 8,146 currently employ 75 people, and we are sq ft are available at Adam House which aiming to take on a further 15 in the next also has ample parking including electric 12 months.” car charging points and secure bike Carter Towler employs 55 people in stores. total and is acknowledged as one of the Giles added: “We already own several most commercially active, independent properties on this site and when Adam property consultants in the North. In House became available, we were the past 12 months the company has keen to add it to our portfolio. It’s a been involved in over 400 industrial, fantastic building with a great deal to commercial, investment, property offer. It’s in a great location, just a mile management and building services from Harrogate town centre, it’s very deals and currently manages over accessible by either car, bike or public 4,500 properties for its clients nationwide. transport.

Giles Castleton the owner of GC Motors, has completed the £250,000 refit of Adam House, a 4-storey office block adjacent to the prestige car dealership on Ripon Way, Harrogate.

The extensive refurbishment has transformed the entire property in preparation for it being offered for reletting.

Commenting on the work, Carter Towler’s Office Agency Director Clem McDowell said: “Since Giles purchased Adam House, he had planned to extensively upgrade the building. He has now created four floors of highquality Grade A office space and we are very much looking forward to marketing the property for him.”

“By removing the existing partitioning, upgrading all the communal facilities including toilets and kitchens, adding energy efficient lighting and air conditioning with air recirculation, this

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Innovative future at Mattress Online with senior hire

Tech-driven retailer Mattress Online has welcomed Martin Adams as chief innovation officer.

Martin has been unofficially involved in a consultancy capacity with fast-growing Mattress Online since it was founded 19 years ago but now takes up a position on the leadership team as part of the newly created role.

He joins the business, alongside brother and chief executive officer Steve Adams, to help drive an innovative, tech-focused future growth strategy.

“Mattres Online has experienced rapid growth over the past two years and I am thrilled to take on this key role and build on the wealth of experience already in evidence,” said Martin.

"These are exciting times when both technology and consumer experience are starting to change in terms of an

evolving digital-first experience and augmentation with offline.

“Having been on the Mattress Online journey alongside Steve since the early days, I am confident that the expertise and experience I bring will bolster the strategic role I'm embarking on and cement us as innovators and leaders in our industry."

Steve said: “Martin has been instrumental in Mattress Online’s evolution and to bring him on board officially is great news for the business and customers.

“As part of his new role, Martin will remain tech-focused, but he will be continually looking at ways we stay ahead of the curve when it comes to our

customer offering as well as planning how we innovate and stay futureproof across all areas of the business”.

This year Mattress Online has branched into physical stores with the acquisition of premises in Skipton, North Yorkshire.

The ambitious business plans to roll out a further nine stores across the UK in the next five years which blend the best of online retail with a physical, in-store experience.

Mattress Online has also recently added roles across its digital and commercial operations taking its headcount to almost 80.

Additional investment in extra warehouse space has increased the Rotherham-based company’s footprint to approximately 135,000 square feet.

TopicUK August 2022

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98

Mustang goes to the Machs.

By:Graham

Cour tney

-

Motoring

Correspondent

When Ford announced they were going to produce an electric Mustang, all of the petrol fanatics broke out in a heavy sweat fearing that the thumping 5.0 litre V8 was going to be ditched.

Fear not fellow petrolheads, the original Mustang is alive and kicking.

The electric Mustang is actually an SUV called the Mustang Mach-E. Why on Earth they called it a Mustang is a mystery to everyone. Surely Ford must have someone in a department who’s getting paid a fortune to come up with clever names.

Perhaps they had the day off or maybe the message is still sitting in their outbox.

We’ve all been there.

Anyway, The Mach-E looks fabulous.

As with every electric car, there is one question on everyone’s lips. How far will it travel before you need a recharge? The answer is some really good news because it’s up with the best, going for an estimated 379 miles before drifting to a halt. Granted, cold weather with heaters, lights, wipers etc in operation, will sap that figure, but 250 miles should be easily reachable in most conditions. If you have access to a rapid charger you’ll get a 73 mile boost to get you home in around 10 minutes.

As for performance, go for the full fat Mustang Mach-E and you’ll hit 60mph in 3.7 seconds which is impressive bearing in mind that this car weighs two tonnes.

You’ll frighten the life out of most socalled supercars.

Price? Everything kicks off at £47,530 which, when compared to other allelectric cars with similar range and performance is decent value.

Three versions are available. Rear wheel

drive, all-wheel drive which adds a motor to the front wheels as well as the rear, and a GT. You have a choice of two battery packs…75kWh or 98kWh. The bigger one gets the longer range. Power on the entry level Mach-E is 264bhp while the bigger, extended range battery boosts things to 290bhp. The AWD twin motor Mach-E is also available with the 264bhp power level but you can up the ante go for 346bhp with a longer range battery. The GT gets a whopping 480bhp.

Every Mustang Mach-E is well equipped including sat nav, climate control, front and rear parking sensors, rear view camera, and LED headlights. Most things are controlled by an enormous 15.5-inch touchscreen.

Out on the road, the Mach-E is comfortable and responsive. If you think it’s going to drive like a Ford Mustang coupé…forget it. It drives like what it’s supposed to be…a family SUV that’ll be happy on the school run, family holidays and going to the tip.

Just like other electric cars, it is supereasy to drive. Hop in, turn it on, twist the gear knob to D and away you go. You can have some fun on twisty roads but the Mach-E really excels as a cruiser. You can choose from three different driving modes which adjust stuff like throttle response, brakes and steering. Ford calls them Active, Whisper and Untamed. Why? No idea. Just leave it in Active (normal) and you’ll be fine. Ford is promising more fully electric cars over the next few years. If they’re anything like the Mustang Mach-E, we can’t wait.

TopicUK April 2022

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