TopicUK June 2024 Edition

People. Results. Value.

We believe that when businesses work together, they can achieve fantastic things.

Together, we have that power; the power to change the status quo, the power to create a better future for your business, your employees and your customers. Change rarely happens in isolation, but when businesses work together, anything is possible.

Just imagine what we could do together.

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• Stafflex

• Scriba PR

• Kirklees College

• University of Law

• BeVic

• Fantastic Media

• DAKOTA HOTEL LEEDS

• CRAGGS ENERGY

Editors notes

By group editor Gill Laidler

Welcome to this edition of TopicUK magazine.

This month I was delighted to chat with Rachel Coates who appears on our cover. Rachel is the first lady in the Great Yorkshire Show’s history to take over the top job from next year as current show director Charles Mills steps down. You can read the full story on page 60 and don’t forget to book your tickets for the show next month.

It’s been a busy week. I was thrilled to be invited to attend the Bradford BID dinner at Cedar Court Hotel Bradford last week. The city really does know how to put on a show. My thanks to Yorkshire Asian Business Association founder Sharon Jandu for the invitation and her invitation to attend the West Yorkshire Police Awards the following evening at Dock Hall. This event was a real eye opener as to the dangers of what our police force endures daily, quite often putting their lives on the line. It was another successful Yorkshire Businesswoman networking event at the Sky Lounge within the Doubletree by Hilton last week, members and guests really do create fabulous networking events, the next being at Grantley Hall on 5th July with a fashion show and afternoon tea. You can reserve your place on the Yorkshire Businesswoman website https://www. yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk

I was delighted to see that my former

employers (from many years ago) Harrison Spinks have been awarded The Kings Award for Sustainable Development. Well done Peter, Simon, and the team.

I was sad to see that Leeds City Council chief executive Tom Riordan is to step down from his role at the end of the year. Tom has been at the helm for 14 years; we’ll hopefully find out soon who his predecessor will be. It was good however to see Tracy Brabin re-elected as Mayor of West Yorkshire. Tracy has achieved a lot during her time, so great news she can continue this. Tracy was a judge for the 2024 Yorkshire Businesswoman Awards, and I am delighted to announce she will once again be a judge in the 2025 awards.

Have a great summer.

Gill

G&H Group lands Bradford College project

Tilbury Douglas has appointed G&H Group to provide all mechanical and electrical design and build services for Bradford College’s Garden Mills Refurbishment Project.

Bradford College was awarded £5.8m from The Office for Students Higher Education Capital Fund to transform a derelict building into a state-of-the-art STEM training and education facility to benefit students studying digital, science and allied health subjects.

G&H Group was appointed to support main contractor Tilbury Douglas, a leading UK building, infrastructure, engineering, and fit-out company,

following a successful tender submission.

A 20-strong team, including four apprentices, will deliver a complete mechanical and electrical design and build for the new, cutting-edge higher education facility including lighting, power, heating, domestic services, gas and ventilation.

To support the requirements of Part L of

the building regulation and the college’s sustainability commitments, G&H Group has designed the heating system to facilitate the future installation of air source heat pump technology, ensuring that all installed emitters and pipework can operate at lower system temperatures.

On planned completion in August, ahead of the start of the new academic year, the renovated mill will boast cutting-edge dental facilities including a specialist dentistry suite, a prep room, six higher education digital IT labs, an ophthalmic dispensing suite, a real-life work environment with consulting and testing booths, a clinical suite, and academic teaching spaces.

Forming part of Bradford College’s ambitious estates strategy, these new facilities will nurture pioneering careers in sectors that support regional economic growth.

David Davis, director, G&H Group said: “We have extensive experience delivering MEP projects for the education sector

This is a huge boost for the College but is also a transformative investment in Bradford city centre...

and collaborating with Tilbury Douglas. Helping transform the derelict Garden Mills Building into an innovative higher education college will hugely benefit the students and support their future careers.”

Paul Ellenor, regional director for Tilbury Douglas, said: “We’re delighted to be teaming up once again with G&H Group to deliver this refurbishment project for Bradford College, providing dedicated specialist facilities to support higher-level STEM teaching and provide an enhanced student experience.”

Christopher Malish, Bradford College vice principal Finance & Corporate Services, added: “This is a huge boost for the College but is also a transformative investment in Bradford city centre that also supports the wider city centre development. These new facilities will allow the delivery of curricula designed to address big societal challenges, enrich our local workforce, and showcase a range of inspiring careers.”

Established in 1998, G&H Group is a market leading MEP provider. Its 180-strong experienced team design, manage, deliver and maintain every aspect of MEP schemes.

Born Ugly launches ‘Ugly Ducklings’ initiative

Brand transformation and creative change agency Born Ugly today announces the launch of its ‘Ugly Ducklings’ initiative to champion and showcase the raw ideas of emerging creatives throughout the country.

The initiative sees Born Ugly partner with the Universities of Leeds, Lincoln, Salford, Norwich and Nottingham Trent to offer students outside of London an opportunity to uncover their true creative potential.

Beginning with an interactive workshop at the studios in Leeds, participants will present their ideas on the theme ‘Sell the Unsellable’, showcasing their ability to transform something so easily accessible, with seemingly little value, into a desirable product or experience.

From initially hundreds of young creative participants, 15 have been selected to present their ideas to the Born Ugly team. Winners will be presented with the ‘Ugly Duckling’ award as well as having their ideas showcased online.

There will also be several talks and activities from guest speaker Tim

Greenhalgh, former chief creative officer at FITCH, that champions and nurtures raw, unformed ideas and highlights their importance.

Rob Skelly, creative director of Born Ugly said: “With a long history of collaboration with universities and other institutions, we recognise the need to support young creatives from diverse backgrounds. We want to go further, highlighting the ugly truth of art funding cuts while raising the importance of creativity at school level to break down barriers into the industry.

He continued: “‘Ugly Ducklings’ seeks to bridge the gap between academia and the professional creative industries, providing opportunities for those who may not have had access to traditional paths while simultaneously showcasing the creative ability that exists outside of London.”

Appointments and promotions at Aon’s Leeds office

AON a leading global professional services firm, has made four appointments and two promotions in its Leeds advisory commercial risk team following a period of growth.

Aon, which provides its Yorkshirebased clients - from SMEs to large corporations - with commercial risk, health, reinsurance, and wealth solutions, has appointed Jessica Kelly and Lee Maddison to client director.

Jessica and Lee, who have 25 years and 10 years’ experience respectively, will be responsible for managing existing client relationships and business development.

In addition, Emily Gray and Lucy Joyce join as client service advisers. With 20 and 13 years’ experience respectively, they will be responsible for broking and placement of new business, renewals, and mid-term adjustments for commercial risk clients.

Leading the promotions is Cheryl

Archibald, who has been promoted to client service manager. In the five years since joining Aon, Cheryl has held the role of senior broker and successfully completed her Chartered Insurance Institute Diploma. In her new role, Cheryl will oversee a team of client service advisers, manage a book of clients and advise them on all aspects of commercial risk insurance.

In addition, William Mason has been promoted to client service adviser after relocating from Peterborough to Leeds.

James Fell, head of office, Aon Leeds, said: “Congratulations to everyone on their well-deserved promotions and welcome to

our new colleagues, who, with their wealth of experience, local market knowledge and expertise, have further strengthened the advisory team.

“By acquiring and nurturing highly skilled talent and creating a supportive culture that places colleagues at the heart of the business, we continue to invest in our capabilities and ensure that our clients receive a top-class service.”

Cheryl Archibald, client service manager in Aon a dvisory, said:

“I love working at Aon. Being a part of a supportive culture that fosters talent by providing a clear development plan has resulted in my promotion. Aon is an excellent employer, and I am grateful and pleased that they have recognised my hard work and promoted me to client se rvice manager.”

Kirklees College and Kirklees Council to bring Construction Training Centre to Dewsbury and North Kirklees

Kirklees College and Kirklees Council have announced an exciting new partnership to deliver a new construction training facility in North Kirklees. The Kirklees Build project will see the development of a new skills and education centre delivering practical construction training within a live site environment, located initially at

Kirklees College’s Springfield Sixth Form Centre in Dewsbury.

The Construction Skills Hub will deliver training in modern methods of construction, retrofit, low carbon energy and other future skills needs. The centre has been designed in collaboration with stakeholders including the Construction

Industry Training Board (CITB) to ensure that the facilities included will equip the next generation with the skills needed to meet the demands of the future. The second phase of the project will involve developing a construction skills hub at a major housing development in North Kirklees. The project is being funded through a Government grant from the Dewsbury Town Fund programme and Kirklees Council.

Kirklees College is hopeful that the new training site will attract a wide range of young people in Dewsbury and the surrounding area to join the college’s Construction department, which is more popular than ever.

Applications for Construction courses starting in September 2024 at Kirklees College are now open. Apply now at www.kirkleescollege.ac.uk/subjects/ construction.

Bellway awarded five-star status for putting customers first

For the eighth year running, national housebuilder Bellway has earned five-star status from the Home Builders Federation (HBF).

Bellway, whose Yorkshire division is currently building on 12 developments in the region – including the East Riding, Skipton, Menston and Pocklington, has achieved the accolade because more than 90 per cent of its customers have said they would recommend the company to a friend.

Melanie Smith, Yorkshire’s sales director, said: “Customers are at the heart of every decision we make and everything we do at Bellway.”

“From the designing and building of high-quality new homes, to the information and support we provide

for buyers, we always measure ourselves by customer satisfaction.

“We have introduced several recent initiatives for customers with a view to helping them understand the process of building their home, and what Bellway is doing to reduce its carbon footprint in delivering sustainable homes. These include pre-plaster visits and Meet the Builder experiences, which give customers the confidence in the team building their new homes.

“In addition, we’ve rolled out ‘House to Home’ plots across the country. These concept homes showcase different build stages to buyers, helping them to better understand their new home and see first-hand the quality of a Bellway home.

“Overall, this Better with Bellway strategy prioritises customers and communities – as well as the quality of our homes, the safety of our building sites and our commitments to carbon reduction, sustainability, and biodiversity.” The HBF award is based on results from customer satisfaction surveys carried out independently by warranty providers. For a homebuilder to attain five-star status at least nine out of 10 customers must answer yes to the question ‘would you recommend your builder to a friend?’

26 evolves into two specialist brands

Leading digital experience and media agency 26,announces a strategic transformation as it evolves into two specialised brands: 26PMX (Performance Marketing Experts) and 26DX (Digital Experience).

With an overarching ambition to enhance the already established skill sets within the business, the two brands will each have an improved platform for client engagement, growth, and comm ercial success.

Amidst a market shift marked by the rise of AI, in-housing, media cost inflation and industry skills shortages, the strategic transformation will enable 26PMX and 26 DX to hone focused value propositions in their resp ective markets.

Ryan Scott, previously the CEO of 26, will continue in the role of CEO at 26PMX, working with brands such as Fortnum & Mason, Victoria Beckham, HOKA and Asda Money. During his time as CEO of 26, the

agency has delivered record growth in revenue and profits, launched services in the US, been named twice in the UK’s Best Companies to Work For and was awarded Drum Agency of th e Year in 2021.

Meanwhile, Guy Hunsworth, who previously served as operations director at 26, will assume the role of director at 26 DX. With over 16 years’ tenure at 26, Hunsworth brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role. 26 DX will work with clients including Arla, CIPD, Corinthia Hotels, CVS and Marshalls.

Speaking on the strategic transformation, Ryan said: “This is an exciting time for us and our clients. With a sharper focus,

enhanced capabilities, and a steadfast dedication to excellence we’re poised to unleash growth and value, and to drive meaningful change for our clients. Additionally, whilst most roles within the agencies will remain unchanged in day-to-day operations, the definition will provide more focused learning and personal development opportunities for our staff, aligned with refined purpose s and visions.”

Guy added: “Through client engagement and surveys, partner relationships, industry insight and new business interactions, we’ve identified the opportunity for a more specialist focus. As our clients’ needs change rapidly and become more complex, this transformation will evolve and optimise our service and offering by enhancing our insight capabilities, innovation, and activation. That will enable us to continue delivering growth and value for our clients and partners.”

Law firm appointed by northern trust to advise on Yorkshire industrial and office portfolio

Northern Trust Company Ltd has appointed law firm Gordons to advise on lettings of its 1.2m sq ft Yorkshire industrial and office portfolio.

Chorley-based Northern Trust has a retained property portfolio of around nine million sq ft ranging from the south Midlands to Scotland’s central belt. It comprises more than 4,000 individual units situated in more than 200 separate industrial, trade and office park locations.

Within Yorkshire, the company currently has more than 500 units. These are split across 41 assets, of which 38 are industrial and trade with the balance office and business accommodation.

A team led by Gordons commercial property partner, James Kimberley,

has already advised Northern Trust on four deals in the county. These include the letting of a 3,500 sq ft unit to one of the world’s leading suppliers of welding equipment, Migatronic Welding Equipment at the property company’s Sarah Court scheme in Doncaster.

Northern Trust’s Yorkshire office, which is based in Wakefield, is led by regional property director, Dan Hodge. Commenting on Gordons’ appointment, he said: “James and the team at Gordons

understand what’s important to us and our occupiers, and how we want to work. They act quickly and decisively to secure lettings and provide us with the practical commercial advice which we need.”

The firm’s other commercial property clients include retailers AO, B&M, Iceland and Wren Kitchens along with utility provider Northern Gas Networks and Yorkshire Building Society.

Gordons’ James Kimberley added: “Northern Trust is a long-established business with significant interests in Yorkshire. Most of the assets are occupied by SMEs which contribute to job creation, so it is great to be playing our role in helping Northern Trust further enable economic growth within the region.”

Virtual Networking Platforms join forces

Meeow, an innovative automated virtual networking platform, has partnered with Virtual Power Networking - an 'always open' 500+ WhatsApp virtual networking ecosystem full of some of the world's leading thought leaders and entrepreneurs.

Meeow will allow VPN members to meet at scheduled times five times a week. At three minutes past the hour, its algorithm will match people and add them to a video meeting rooms, in groups of no more th an four people.

"My 500 WhatsApp Groups never close and Meeow will allow members to regularly meet and FF

get to know one another at a deeper level," commented Marc Jarrett, an award-winning super connector who has spent the last five years creating his virtual networ king ecosystem.

"I have been extolling the virtues of virtual business networking since long before the pandemic, not least since it saves so much time, money and carbon. But best of all, I love its globali ty," says Marc.

Excited

The partnership between Meeow and Virtual Power Networking brings together two innovative platforms with a shared vision: to empower professionals to connect, engage, and thrive in the digital age. By combining their respective strengths and expertise, the companies are poised to deliver a seamless and immersive networking experience for users ar ound the globe.

"We are excited to join forces with Virtual Power Networking to create a dynamic and inclusive online networking community," said Simon Glenn, CEO of Meeow. "Together, we will leverage the power of technology to foster meaningful connections and drive positive outcomes for our users."

With the rise of remote work and digital communication, the demand for virtual networking solutions has never been greater. By joining forces, Meeow and Virtual Power Networking are well-positioned to meet this demand and redefine the future of onl ine networking.

Law firm launches dedicated employee ownership service

A Yorkshire law firm has launched a dedicated employee ownership ad visory service.

Employee Ownership Advisor is a new service from Ison Harrison designed to provide business owners with the ultimate resource for navigating the world of Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs).

With its own dedicated website the

service aims to help business owners looking to explore the benefits of an EOT for their business. Having experienced the advantages of employee ownership themselves, the firm’s team of expert lawyers is well placed to answer questions and provide no-obligation advice to business owners looking to make the switch.

The service covers everything from the basic principles of employee ownership,

the process of transitioning to an EOT, trust management, employee engagement, company governance and rewards and benefits.

Employee ownership is becoming an increasingly popular model for British businesses. According to figures compiled by the Employee Ownership Association, 332 businesses transitioned to employee ownership in 2022. As of June 2023, the total number of companies owned partially or fully by their employees had reached a record 1,418, marking a 37% growth in just 12 months.

Ison Harrison was the UK’s first law firm to become a 100% employee-owned

business in January 2022 after the three main shareholder directors agreed to sell the business to an Employee Ownership Trust.

Record

270 qualifying team members at the firm recently received a profit distribution pay-out marking the second anniversary of becoming employeeowned. As a result of the firm’s strong financial performance, individual profit distributions approved by Ison Harrison’s Board of Trustees saw all eligible employees receive a tax-free distribution of £4,000 each, an increase of £400 on the £3,600 payment paid the previous year.

The firm, which employs more than 270 staff across the region, posted a record turnover of over £22 million last year, up 16% from £19 million in 2022.

Employee Ownership Advisor is the brainchild of Richard Coulthard, director and head of commercial services. Since launching the service, the firm has received a significant number of preliminary enquiries from business owners across the region and beyond and is already helping several local businesses through the transitionary stages.

He commented : “The move to employee ownership has been hugely positive and advantageous for Ison Harrison. This success is the inspiration for the Employee Ownership Adviser as we want to share our experience of the process and use our expertise to help other business owners by transitioning from traditional business ownership to the EOT model.

“We have taken a unique approach to set ourselves apart from our competitors. We are proud to be an EOT, which helps distinguish us from other firms. In embracing employee ownership, we have fostered a culture of collaboration, incentivised performance, and ensured our clients receive exceptional service. This experience and knowledge are now being passed on to business owners so that they and their workforce can enjoy the many benefits of employee ownership. Our service website provides practical insights, expert advice, and invaluable tips to ensure a smooth and successful transition. We fully understand the challenges that may arise, and we are well equipped to provide the knowledge and strategies needed to overcome them.”

Harrison Spinks announces new partnership with designer & BBC ‘sewing bee’

Luxury bedmaker Harrison Spinks has teamed up with designer and BBC’s The Great British Sewing Bee judge Patrick Grant to champion quality British craftmanship and highlight the company’s innovative manufacturing processes.

Patrick has visited the 300-acre Harrison Spinks farm in Yorkshire where it grows its own natural fillings, and the nearby factory where awardwinning recyclable spring systems and FR chemical-free mattress fabrics are made in-house.

It marks a return to Leeds for the owner of Savile Row tailors, Norton & Sons, who studied at the University of Leeds. Patrick is also the founder of Community Clothing which champions affordable, quality clothes made in the UK from the finest materials.

Fifth-generation family-owned business Harrison Spinks is one of the UK’s largest growers of hemp and the only bedmaker in the UK to weave its own mattress ticking and upholstery fabrics, which, due to their high wool content are naturally fire-retardant. It also currently grows flax, which is a more sustainable alternative to cotton.

Patrick said: “Harrison Spinks and I share many core values, from working with natural, quality, British materials to championing sustainability and innovation, making it a perfect fit.

“I’m so pleased to be working with this 180-year-old British company, as not only are the beds amazing, but its dedication to doing things the right way for customers, staff, and the planet, is a fantastic example to other businesses.

“Harrison Spinks is an industry leader, and I am particularly impressed with their in-house weaving and artisan bedmaking, keeping traditional manufacturing techniques alive.

“Their approach to sustainable innovation and using homegrown materials and fabrics is inspiring, as is their unique approach to luxury bedmaking.”

Nick Booth, managing director at

Harrison Spinks, said: “Patrick shares our passion for celebrating the very best of great British craftmanship and creating exceptional quality products made with locally sourced, natural materials, handcrafted here in the UK using traditional techniques.

“He is a true champion of British manufacturing and British textiles – something close to our heart –and will be helping us to spread the word on how we’re cut from a different cloth. Our shared ethos is a key driving force behind this partnership. “Patrick has spearheaded initiatives to revive flax growing and linen textile production across the UK – and we grow some of the finest natural fibres, including hemp and flax, right here in Yorkshire to create luxurious filling pads that are layered into our mattresses.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming Patrick back to the farm and factory so he can see the incredible process for himself and explore how we can support each other and work together further in the future.”

Award-winning Turkish Steakhouse, to light up Yorkshire

Yorkshire’s culinary scene is about to sizzle as Etci Mehmet, the renowned Turkish Steakhouse, announces its arrival in Leed s this summer.

With its stellar reputation for exceptional steaks and a dining experience like no other, Etci Mehmet is set to become the new hotspot for food enthusiasts across the region.

Having already captured the hearts (and taste buds) of diners in Manchester, Liverpool, and Birmingham, Etci Mehmet brings its unique blend of premium culinary delights, vibrant atmosphere to the heart of Yorkshire.

At Etci Mehmet, every dining experience is a celebration. Guests are treated to a feast for the senses, with legendary fire shows and a mouthwatering Turkish-inspired menu available every day of the week. From the 28-day dry-aged premium beef to the show-stopping Etci Special Fillet Mignon prepared tableside with live flambé demonstrations, and not forgetting their sensational famous

Turkish Baklava, there’s something to delight every palate.

Founded in Istanbul in 2012 by Mehmet & Mustafa (affectionately known as Baba), Etci Mehmet launched its first UK restaurant in Manchester, which instantly became the city's hottest dining spot. Followed by openings in Riyadh, Birmingham, Liverpool, Doha & Casablanca. With its arrival in Leeds, creating 60 jobs in the city, the restaurant is set to become a firm favourite among locals and visitors alike.

Their UK brand has rapidly risen to a high-profile favourite, attracting loyal and regular guests including celebrities and sports stars. Etci Mehmet has a unique way of bringing people together in their relaxed yet vibrant restaurants. They have

created the perfect place to enjoy a delicious lunch, dinner with friends and celebrations for the whole family to enjoy, with the warmth of their hospitality.

Speaking ahead of the Leeds launch, operations director Amine el Gueddar commented: “We are thrilled to continue our UK expansion. Leeds has been cooking for a long time and was the next natural destination. Many of our current guests travel weekly from the Yorkshire district, including Bradford, Huddersfield, Batley, Dewsbury, and Wakefield, we wanted to bring the Etci experience closer to them.

Leeds ticks all the boxes, and we found the perfect location on Eastgate, Headrow, in the heart of the city. It is easily accessible to students, professionals, and families alike. With ample parking and proximity to transport links and motorways, enjoying a delicious meal at Etci Mehmet has neve r been easier.”

As one of the UK’s largest cities, Leeds holds a wealth of opportunities for Etci Mehmet. The restaurant is excited to become a part of the city’s thriving community and looks forward to contributing to its developm ent and growth.

“We can’t wait to create an inviting atmosphere at our new restaurant, filled with our passion for food and hospitality,” said el Gueddar. “We love seeing everyone enjoying their time together with us and we’re excited to serve, support and entertain the Yorkshire community!”

British bedmaker achieves king’s award for sustainable development

Fifth-generation family-owned luxury bedmaker and components manufacturer Harrsion Spinks has earned a prestigious King’s Award for Sustainable Development, adding to its two current King’s Awards for Innovation and International Trade and previously awarded Queen’s Awards, bringing the total number achieved by the business to eight.

The King’s Award win solidifies the company as an industry pioneer in sustainability, having made significant strides to improve its production and CO2 emissions across the main beds business and within its component manufacturing division, as well as working to improve the local biodiversity in Yorkshire where both businesses are based.

Sustainability

The business has spearheaded responsible manufacturing through

various initiatives and innovations since it began in 1840, including introducing a world-first pocket spring that’s recyclable due to its glue-less design, and made from wire that’s drawn in-house. It is also the only bedmaker to have its own farms to produce home-grown natural materials for use within its luxury mattress filling pads, and the only British bed manufacturer to create 95%* of its mattress components inhouse, including its fire-retardant chemical-free mattress fabric that’s woven in Yorkshire.

The news follows the release of the bedmaker’s newly-launched Impact Report which outlines a host of sustainability-focussed initiatives, including plans to become Nature Net Positive across all operations and decrease carbon emissions from direct operations by 95% within 10 years, with the company’s components division already introducing new manufacturing technology to reduce energy consumption by 60% as well as decreasing raw material usage.

Harrison Spinks is one of the UK’s largest growers of hemp – a crop known for its environmental benefits, absorbing more CO2 per hectare in its growth cycle than any other forest or commercial crop. This year the business is increasing its flax acreage by 500% to 120 acres to replace cotton within its luxury

mattress fillings, as well as investing into UK-based wildlife programmes to boost the local natural habitat.

The Leeds-based bed manufacturer has also been successfully recognised for its sustainability initiatives at the Yorkshire Sustainability Excellence Awards, where it was announced as the winner in the Circular Economy Excellence category for its commitment to using responsiblysourced materials in its products, such as traceable British Wool and upcycled luxury cashmere offcuts, as well as its dedication to innovation to reduce environmental impact.

Simon Spinks, chairman said: “Receiving the King’s Award for Sustainable Development is a tremendous honour, especially after

previously holding a Queen’s Award in this category, and it reflects the unwavering dedication of our whole team’s efforts to be the UK’s most responsible bedmaker.

Proud

“As a proud British manufacturer, this award win is testament to our commitment to driving the business forward through industry-leading responsible business practices that also enrich the lives of our colleagues and communities.

“Whether it’s actively encouraging biodiversity on our farms, supporting children’s bed charity Zarach with mattresses each month for children and families in poverty, or helping our employees achieve a better work-life balance by introducing a compressed four-

day working week, we know the importance of making a positive difference to the world around us.

“We’re immensely proud to have been recognised by the most prestigious Awards for Enterprise in the UK. Having previously won seven Queen’s and King’s Awards for Sustainable Development, Innovation, and International Trade, this latest accolade only reinforces our position as world leaders in sustainable bed and component manufacturing.”

The King’s Awards for Enterprise are designed to recognise and encourage outstanding achievements in four categories: Innovation, International Trade, Sustainable Development and Promoting Opportunity. Successful businesses can use the prestigious King’s Awards emblem for five years.

UK Recruitment trends 2024

By: Nicole Sopkovich - Matt Burton Associates

1.Adaptability and Skills Development:

Companies are prioritizing candidates who demonstrate adaptability and a growth mindset. This shift emphasizes practical expertise and the ability to evolve with changing job requirements over traditional educational credentials (HOME | Recruitment Partner).

There is a significant focus on upskilling and reskilling within the existing workforce to keep pace with technological advancements and evolving industry needs (HOME | Recruitment Partner)

2. Neurodiversity and Inclusivity:

Embracing neurodiversity has become a key strategy for many businesses. Companies are adjusting recruitment processes to be more inclusive, such as using portfolio-based assessments and providing flexible communication options (HOME | Recruitment Partner)

Inclusive practices have been linked to higher revenue and innovation, with businesses recognizing the unique strengths and perspectives that neurodiverse individuals bring to the workplace (HOME | Recruitment Partner)

3.Talent Relationship Management (TRM):

TRM platforms are gaining traction, allowing companies to build and nurture long-term relationships with potential candidates. This approach helps maintain a talent pipeline and engage with candidates beyond traditional job postings (HOME | Recruitment Partner)

Personalizing communication and leveraging data-driven insights are key strategies in utilizing TRM effectively to attract and retain top talent (HOME | Recruitment Partner)

Unemployment Statistics

The UK's unemployment rate has shown variability in recent months:

1. Unemployment Rate:

As of January to March 2024, the unemployment rate was 4.3%, reflecting an increase from previous periods. Approximately 1.49 million people aged 16 and over were unemployed (ONS) (Commons Library)

There has been an increase in the number of people unemployed for various durations, with significant rises in those unemployed for

up to six months, and those for over six and up to twelve months (ONS).

2. Employment and Economic Inactivity:

Employment levels have decreased, with 33.0 million people aged 16+ in employment. This marks a decline of around 204,000 over the past year, resulting in an employment rate of 74.5% (Commons Library)

Economic inactivity has also risen, with 9.38 million people aged 16-64 classified as economically inactive, translating to an inactivity rate of 22.1% (Commons Library)

3. Vacancies and Wages:

The number of job vacancies has decreased to 898,000, although this figure remains above prepandemic levels. Meanwhile, average wages have seen real-term increases, with nominal wages rising at notable rates including bonuses (Commons Library)

These trends and statistics illustrate a dynamic and evolving recruitment and employment landscape in the UK as of mid-2024, highlighting both challenges and opportunities for businesses and job seekers alike.

Huddersfield Town Foundation boosts Breakfast Clubs with charity golf day

Huddersfield Town Foundation proudly announces its inaugural charity golf day, set to take place on Thursday 11th July 2024, at the Crosland Heath Golf Club.

This event aims to raise crucial funds for the Foundation's Breakfast Clubs programme, which provides healthy breakfasts to children in need across Kirklees.

Golf enthusiasts and supporters alike are invited to join Town legend Keith Hanvey for a day of friendly competition. Teams of four can register for just £350, which includes a sandwich, tea or

coffee upon arrival, a two-course meal, and sponsorship of a hole for your business or team.

The Breakfast Clubs have served over 2.5 million meals since their inception, providing children affected by poverty with a nutritious start to their day of learning. The annual cost of running these clubs exceeds £140,000, making events like the charity golf day crucial for

sustaining these efforts. By purchasing a team ticket, competitors would feed 70 children breakfast for one month.

"With one in four 3–10-year-olds in Kirklees living in relative poverty, initiatives like our Breakfast Clubs are more vital than ever," says Siobhan Atkinson, chief executive of Huddersfield Town Foundation.

In addition to the golf tournament, sponsorship opportunities are available, including headline sponsorship for £2,000 – which would feed 400 children breakfast for a month – and supporting packages starting from £550. Sponsors gain visibility and recognition while contributing to a worthy cause.

To register a team of four or inquire about sponsorship opportunities, please email: fundraising@htafcfoundation.com Company of the Month

Enjoy a great day out again and again with a Summer Pass

Courtesy Perrotin Gallery and Arsham Studio. Photo © Jonty Wilde

Special guests announced for this year’s Great Yorkshire Show

This year’s farming celebrities and influencers have been announced as plans are underway for the 165th Great Yorkshire Show.

TV presenters Helen Skelton, Adam Henson, Peter Wright from Channel 5’s The Yorkshire Vet and Rob and Dave Nicholson, of Cannon Hall Farm (the official host farm for Channel 5’s Spr ingtime on the Farm series), will appear on the Vertu Motors GYS Stage, near Grey Gate.

The farming celebrities will take part in chat shows hosted by TV presenter Christine Talbot at 11am and 2pm before taking part in a meet & greet afterw ards with fans.

It will be the first time on the Vertu Motors GYS Stage for Helen Skelton who appeared on Channel 5’s Dan &

Helen’s Pennie Adventure alongside Dan Walker, where she explored the countryside and took on a series of challenging local activities. She also hosted Channel 5’s On The Farm in 2023, bringing the best stories from the fa rm, and beyond.

Helen will appear on Tuesday said: “I have always been a fan of the Great Yorkshire Show and have loved visiting with friends and family over

the years. I am very much looking forward to being there this year and sharing some stories with audiences a cross the day.”

Adam Henson who will appear on Wednesday said: “It’s great to be back at the Great Yorkshire Show, one of my favourite events. I look forward to being on the GYS Stage as well as meeting exhibitors across livestock sections where there are some of the best animals in the UK competing. I can’t wa it to be back.”

Peter Wright will appear on the chat shows on Thursday and in the fashion shows on the Friday. He said: “I am absolutely delighted to be back at the Great Yorkshire Show again this year. I’m looking forward to being on the GYS Stage with Christine to talk all things Yorkshire Vet on the Thursday, then later in the Garden Show with Martin Fish and then on Farm to Fashion Show catwalk on the Friday. This really is the highlight of my year – unmissable!”

Rob Nicholson, who will be on the GYS Stage with brother Dave on the Friday, said: “We are really looking forward to being guest speakers at the Great Yorkshire Show. It is an event we whole-heartedly look forward to each year, not just as an opportunity to showcase our animals - of which we are rightly proud - but also for the chance to meet like-minded people

interested in this industry to share ideas and support each other. It’s a real honour to be asked to be involved and we really hope we can share some of the lessons we’ve learned along the way.”

The Great Yorkshire Show will also be covered by farming influencers Olly Harrison and Joe Seels who will broadcast the show to their thousands of You Tube followers.

Arable farmer Olly from Liverpool who has over 500,000 followers on social media, will attend on the Tuesday, taking part in the 12noon Farm to Fashion Show at the Sheep Shearing Stage, among other activities.

South Yorkshire Farmer, YouTuber and Tiktoker Joe will attend on the Wednesday, also modelling in the 12noon Farm to Fashion Show. He said: “For me the Great Yorkshire show is a fantastic showcase of all

things farming and country life. I particularly love looking around the tractors and machinery sections, the pedigree cattle are also not to be missed, and our children love the kids activity areas, it really is a full, fun, family day out!”

Throughout the Great Yorkshire Show, there will be two Farm to Fashion shows taking place on the Sheep Shearing Stage at 12noon and 4:30pm every day apart from Friday at 12noon and 3pm.

Hosted by radio presenter Nick Hancock, the shows will feature collections from a wide range of both national and regional designers, including a selection of brand partners from British Wool. This will highlight the important role of UK sheep farmers as the starting point for some of the most stylish and environmentally friendly garments seen on catwalks anywhere.

Tickets for the 165th Show – from Tuesday 9 July to Friday 12 July - are on sale now and will be in advance only, as visitor numbers are capped at 35,000 a day. Last year’s Show sold out a week before. Tickets are Adults £35, Children £13 and Families £86, please go online https://greatyorkshireshow. co.uk/ticket-information/

Helen Skelton

Adam Henson

York BID rejuvenates the city’s riverside area!

York BID is currently three quarters of the way through a Spring project to improve the appearance of York’s riverside infrastructure, with the help of partners across the city.

York BID is currently three quarters of the way through a Spring project to improve the appearance of York’s riverside infrastructure, with the help of partners across the city.

The project aims to refresh tiredlooking benches, bike racks, bollards, bins, and other street furniture across York’s riverside area. This has been made possible by generous donations

from Barclays and Middletons Hotel, which have entirely covered the cost of supplies.

The project started in January of this year, when the BID coordinated four Rejuvenation Days which saw over 50 volunteers help refresh over 150 pieces of individual infrastructure, in Parliament Street, High Ousegate, Coppergate, Piccadilly, Davygate, Lendal, and St Sampson’s Square.

The initiative started as just one of many great outputs from the Cleaning and Rejuvenation Partners meeting; a bimonthly gathering between York BID, City of York Council, York Civic Trust, Make It York, and York High Street Forum, which identified city centre infrastructure in need of attention.

Coordinating

For the current project, nearly 60 volunteers from across the city have

contributed: Hilton York, Barclays, Yorkshire Building Society, Howl, Queens Hotel, McDonald’s, Premier Inn, Indie York, York Conservation Trust, Eboracum, York Civic Trust, York BID, City of York Council, Middlethorpe Hotel, Nuffield Health York Hospital, and even residents all shared their time. The team worked on the riverside area, refreshing street furniture on King’s Staith, King Street, Cumberland Street, Low Ousegate, Nessgate, Clifford Street, South Esplanade, Castlegate, Tower Gardens, Spurriergate, and Tower Street. The team is currently three quarters of the way through the project and have made great progress, completing over 300 pieces of individual infrastructure.

In preparation for the project, the York BID Street Cleaning team hot washed the area, cleaned off stickers and posters, and removed weeds and moss to help the riverside look its best. The Rejuvenation project builds on

York BID and City of York Council’s partnership cleaning approach, coordinating cleaning schedules to ensure efficiency and best practice across the city.

Carl Alsop, operations manager at York BID, said: “These kinds of projects can often go under the radar; however, they make such a difference in the city and at the areas that need it most. The riverside is such a great part of York but has had a tough time with flooding over the past few months, I’ve now seen first hand how much of a difference this project has made in the area - just in time for some great weather!”

John Laud, head of corporate banking for West and North Yorkshire at Barclays, said: “We try to look at the big picture at Barclays but sometimes that means getting the details consistently excellent, so a team of us were really

Luscombe’s make it a double

Leeds’ largest family-run car dealership Luscombe Motors is celebrating after scooping a double win at the prestigious Automotive Management Awards.

Luscombe’s, who own and operate MG and Suzuki dealerships from their site in the Hunslet area of Leeds, were victorious in the Used Car Dealer of the Year and EV Dealership of the Year categories, having also been shortlisted for EV Advocate of the Year.

On picking up the award, sales director, Sam Luscombe, said: “It’s a fantastic achievement to pick up not one but two accolades at the AM Awards.

“We invest a lot to ensure that we’re leading the way in championing new technology such as EVs, delivering

pleased to help York BID in their efforts to rejuvenate some of the tired metal work in the city centre. It was a fun day in the sun, and we felt a sense of pride and personal achievement by giving our time and seeing the impact we had. It was great to see more people and more businesses joining in this time and I hope that can continue in the future York BID projects. Keep up the good work.”

Adam Wardale, general manager of Middletons Hotel, said: “We were delighted to support York BID with the city’s rejuvenation project, it was great to see so many local businesses come together to assist the BID Team in revitalising areas of the city. Following York’s recent accolade as the number one city to visit in the country, it is crucial that we maintain and improve the appearance of our city – not only for visitors but also for residents.”

exceptional customer service and value for money across new and used vehicles and that we’re true to our traditional family values.

“These awards are a real testament to the hard work and dedication shown by everyone day in, day out across both the MG and Suzuki dealerships.”

This year’s AM Awards is the sixth time Luscombe’s has been recognised by the publisher having also received honours in 2012, 2013, 2017, 2018 and 2020. The business has historically also been decorated by several respected institutions such as AutoTrader, Motor Trader and Car Dealer Magazine, with numerous trophies proudly displayed in their showroom.Luscombe’s has recently welcomed the addition of two new vehicles across its two dealerships with the Suzuki Swift and MG3 Hybrid+ adding to the vast range of new and used vehicles available on their site.

Sheffield Chamber of Commerce bolsters board with trio of appointments

Sheffield Chamber of Commerce has been the voice of businesses in Sheffield for over 150 years and is proud to welcome three new non-executive directors (NEDs) to its Chamber Board this month.

Together with the existing members, the new NEDs will be responsible for propelling the strategic objectives of the Chamber forward – ensuring its vision and mission are always front and centre.

Amy Grey, CFO at Sheffield Forgemasters, is one of the three new faces. She joins the board with over 20 years of strategic finance experience – 10 at executive team level – and has held a raft of senior positions across both regional and multi-national companies.

The Chamber also welcomes Dr Sam Chapman, senior vice president of Innovation & co-founder at The Floow, who specialises in transport, new technologies, new markets and research projects. He was also

elected as the first ever 'digital cutler', during his tenure as a Freeman and Council Member of The Company of Cutlers, back in 2015.

Erica Thompson, general counsel at Pricecheck Toiletries, concludes the trio and offers a wealth of legal experience, specifically in the regulatory compliance arena, gained from working within multiple businesses and industries from around the Sheffield region over the past 10 years.

Louisa Harrison-Walker, CEO of Sheffield Chamber of Commerce, said: “It’s a very exciting time for our city, and our new colleagues will further strengthen the collective knowledge and experience of our existing Board.

“With their impressive professional

backgrounds spanning many corners of the business landscape — legal, finance and digital — each of the new NEDs brings with them fresh perspectives, skills, and decision-makin g capabilities.

“As well as making Sheffield the best place to start, grow and run a successful and sustainable business, the Chamber is passionate about working together and leading the way in making that happen. The new appointments are crucial in helping to achieve this.”

Dr Sam Chapman, who is also cochair of the Chamber’s Transport Forum, said: “I am thrilled to embark on this new journey. I’m excited to expand my reach from beyond the transport forum and use my expertise while contributing to our business community, to ensure greater growth, innovation and collaboration.”

Erica Thompson said: “I am really looking forward to being part of the board and working with, and learning from, some great and highly respected people. I can’t wait to play my part in the Chamber and help to continue its reach and influence within the business community, the ci ty and beyond.”

“With the recent additions, our now 10-strong Board has even more business leader-intelligence at its fingertips,” Louisa concluded. “And I can wait to see how this shapes further success, innovation and collaboration f or our region.”

Accu receives King’s Award for Enterprise

Huddersfield based precision component supplier, Accu, has received a King’s Award for International Trade, recognising the company’s outstanding continuous growth in overseas sales.

Accu - which employs over 100 people and supplies over 50% of the world’s top 100 manufacturers – has grown its overseas sales by 288% per year for the last six years, with overseas orders now accounting for 25% of its total sales.

Alastair Morris, UK managing director at Accu, said: “Accu is honoured and delighted to receive this most prestigious award and join over 7,000 UK businesses that have received Royal recognition since the awards began in 1965.

“Accu exports worldwide, but we have been focusing our overseas growth more recently on the USA, Australia and Ireland. Our ultimate

goal is to bring fast delivery and an exceptional customer experience to all engineers, inventors, and innovators around the world.”

The King’s Award for Enterprise follows a recent visit by Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, to the company’s new 45,000 square foot headquarters in Huddersfield, at which he commended Accu for its £1million investment in UK

warehousing as part of a drive to achieve same-day despatch for many of its 500,000 components.

Alistair added: “We are honoured and delighted that The King has recognised Accu in the International Trade category this year.

“We are an international business, but we employ a local workforce, and supporting our local economy is hugely important to how we operate.

“That’s partly why we chose to move less than a mile from our previous HQ, because we want to continue that commitment and base our business innovation and international growth from the heart of Huddersfield.”

Recipients of the King’s Award for Enterprise will attend a reception at Windsor Castle on 9 July, hosted by His Majesty The King.

Martin Ackroyd, CEO Accu

Leeds City Council chief executive to leave at the end of 2024

Leeds City Council’s Chief Executive Tom Riordan today announced his intention to leave at the end of the year to explore new opportunities.

After 14 years at the helm of the second-biggest local authority in the country, Tom has decided the time is right to try fresh challenges.

As one of the longest-standing UK

local government chiefs, he has made a big impact in Leeds, working alongside council leaders and other senior politicians towards achieving their best city and best council ambitions. He was awarded the CBE

for services to local government in the 2020 new year’s honours.

Tom said: “After 14 of the happiest years I’ve decided that the time is right to move on. I have genuinely loved being chief executive of Leeds City Council, working with the best people in the best city.

“We’ve established a collaborative Team Leeds culture that delivers,

working together with our partners to ensure we have a city that’s regenerat ing and growing sustainably.

“A generation of children are growing up supported by outstanding-rated services, vulnerable people are supported wherever possible and older people are helped to live independent and fulfilling lives, in a city admired for what it gets done and th e way it works.

"This has been the most difficult decision, but the time’s right to give someone else a chance to do one of the best jobs i n the country.”

Leeds City Council Leader Councillor James Lewis said: “Tom is an outstanding chief executive and public servant who has worked tirelessly alongside senior politicians, officers and partners over many years with an unwavering determination to achieve the best for Leeds.

“We’ve faced a lot of challenges, not least on the financial front. His contribution has been invaluable in helping us deliver council services that are highly rated, while building stronger communities where people are supported towards better lives and life outcomes.

Dedication

“In his time with us we’ve also attracted major investment, highprofile events and made great progress on building social housing and infrastructure to under-pin communities for the future.

“Tom has played a key part in helping us to get to where we are today and has built a strong team

of senior officers to continue that work. I’d like to take this chance to thank him for his considerable contribution and dedication to the cou ncil and city.”

Since moving to Leeds City Council in 2010 Tom has been passionate about working alongside the political leadership to broaden the council’s impact across the city and the region while simultaneously supporting vulnerable people and fron tline services.

In this time the council has been involved in attracting Channel 4, Burberry, the Bank of England and the UK Infrastructure Bank to the city, along with international events like the Grand Départ of the Tour

innovation and was recently ranked by the Sunday Times as the best place to live in the North.

The council has invested strongly in communities with an ongoing programme of social housing construction, along with infrastructure to support city development like the East Leeds Orbital Route. Its community focus also means it works directly in districts to support improving outcomes for the most vulnerable.

Genuine

Leeds City Council’s children’s services were again rated as outstanding by Ofsted in 2022 and the council is developing its Age Friendly Leeds approach to complement the successful Child Friendly Leeds programme.

This is an exceptional council, with so many talented, hard-working people dedicated to doing their absolute best for the city and its people...

Tom added: “This is an exceptional council, with so many talented, hardworking people dedicated to doing their absolute best for the city and its people. It’s been a privilege to be in a role where there are genuine opportunities to make a real difference to people’s lives.

de France. It has built the first direct Arena, greatly expanded the city centre across the South Bank and worked to facilitate the openings of the Trinity Leeds and Victoria Gate sh opping centres.

While capitalising on its traditionally strong financial sector, the council has also supported the growth of new digital, medtech and innovation-based sectors. Leeds is rated as a global leader on both climate action and healthcare

“Having been in care myself, and lived with mental health issues in my family, I’ve been determined to build a culture that judges people on what they do and treats them with respect and kindness, where everyone feels valued for who they are and what they bring to the team.

“While we have many challenges, in common with all councils, Leeds is in as good a place as it can be to weather them. There is also a generation of bright, diverse leaders emerging from communities and in business, public life, and the arts who make me hugely optimistic for the city’s future.”A recruitment process will begin shortly to find Tom’s successor.

Take your West Yorkshire business to new heights with AD:VENTURE

By: Daneile Moore AD:VENTURE

Are you a passionate entrepreneur with a thriving business in West Yorkshire, trading less than three years old and hungry for growth?

Look no further than AD:VENTURE, your one-stop shop for comprehensive and fully funded business support. We understand the unique challenges faced by young businesses, and our programme is designed to empower you with the tools and resources needed to help you and your business thrive.

Your Dedicated Partner: The AD:VENTURE Business Manager

At the heart of AD:VENTURE lies your dedicated business manager. This friendly and experienced professional becomes your trusted confidante, guiding you through the complexities of business growth. They act as a sounding board, offering insights and support on critical decisions like:

• Business knowledge and knowhow: From marketing strategies to financial management, your business manager equips you with

the essential skills to navigate the business landscape.

• Funding and resources: Need help securing a loan or navigating grant applications? Your business manager will guide you through the process, connecting you to essential resources to ensure your applications stand the best chance of approval.

• Compliance and regulations: Understanding legalities and meeting statutory requirements can be daunting. We can help you navigate this, ensuring your business is set up for success.

Beyond Business: Building Confidence and Well-being

Building a business can be isolating, especially in the early stages. AD:VENTURE goes beyond just

business support. We understand the importance of your well-being as a founder. Your business manager becomes a friend and champion, helping you navigate challenges and build confidence. Here's how we support you:

• Clarity and focus: When things feel overwhelming, we help you prioritise, clear your head, and refocus on your goals.

• Building confidence: We believe in your vision. Our support instils self-belief and empowers you to make crit ical decisions.

• Time management and resource allocation: We help you prioritise tasks and efficiently manage your resources to increase impact.

Fuelling Your Growth: The AD:VENTURE Grant

Taking your business to the next level often requires financial support. Our AD:VENTURE Growth Grant offers a helping hand. The grant offers you:

Up to 50% funding: We offer grants ranging from £1,500 to £10,000 to support your growth projects.

Matched funding opportunities: We require a minimum of 50% match funding from you, supporting the investment into your project.

Expert guidance: Your dedicated business manager will guide you

Delegates networking at Start Me Up

through the application process and help you understand how to make the most of your grant and wider funding.

Additional Support Options

AD:VENTURE offers a suite of resources beyond dedicated business managers and grants. Here's what you can expect:

Business Enterprise Fund Loans: Access loans specifically designed for small growing businesses like yours, offered through our partnership with the Business Enterprise Fund.

Workshops, Webinars, and Networking: Gain valuable knowledge and connect with other

entrepreneurs through workshops, webinars, and networking events.

Flying Duck Studio Lab: A Case Study

in Growth

Flying Duck, one of our success stories, is a great example of the power of AD:VENTURE. Through our programme, they achieved:

Formalised business goals and processes: We helped Flying Duck solidify their business structure and establish efficient workflows.

Expanded

research and development: Our grant programme enabled them to invest in new equipment and stay at the forefront of technology.

Don't just take our word for it. Here's what some of our past clien ts have to say:

"I just wanted to say thank you for the brilliant and generous advice you provided, perfectly tailored to your audience."

“The team have been really happy with the support offered through AD:VENTURE. Everyone is so helpful and knowledgeable. It’s really helped us to understand more about what we can access in terms of business support. In just a few months, we’ve

Increased brand awareness and partnerships: Through event participation facilitated by AD:VENTURE, Flying Duck gained valuable exposure and built new partnerships.

Enhanced confidence and leadership skills: Our support helped the founder gain confidence and develop crucial leadership skills.

Join the AD:VENTURE Community and Take Flight

Ready to unleash your business's full potential? AD:VENTURE is here to support your journey. Join our vibrant community of ambitious entrepreneurs and access the resources you need to thrive. Contact us today to learn more at www. ad-venture.org.uk

Remember, AD:VENTURE is fully funded, so there's no cost to participate. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to take your West Yorkshire business to new heights!

The AD:VENTURE programme is funded by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Partners.

already benefitted from the grant and having our business manager to call on.”

“On a personal level as a business owner, it really helped me to feel confident and understand more the finances and the operations of my business highlighting areas we need to focus on to move forward.”

Success Stories: Real Results from Real Businesses

Alixe Lobato Flying Duck Studio Lab AD:VENTURE

Greyhound Box achieves FSC Certification

In January 2024, the Leeds-based trusted supplier of corrugated packaging solutions was awarded Chain of Custody Certification from the Forest stewardship Council (FSC).

The accreditation gives assurance that products supplied by Greyhound Box are from responsibly managed forests thanks to the FSC’s development of the most sustainable forest management models. In turn, this promotes wider sustainability responsibilities along the entire supply chain, from where Greyhound Box source materials to their customer s’ operations.

Gaining certification from the ‘global golden standard’ was led by Magdalena Biziewska, general manager at Greyhound Box.

“We decided to strive for FSC certification to affirm our strong

This achievement shows our continued commitment to the environment, reinforcing the strength of Greyhound Box’s values...

on the planet, and we believe that being FSC-certified can only assist us w ith this goal.”

Magdalena goes onto explain the business significance of accreditation from the Forest Stewardship Council. “Now that we’ve achieved the Chain of Custody Certification that’s recognised around the world, we’re better positioned to continue raising awareness around both the sustainable forestry and social aspects of the supply chains our packaging opera tions rely on.”

The dedication shown by Magdalena to push Greyhound Box to achieve the standard is reflected by Louise O’Brien, Managing Director of the Leedsbased packaging manufacturer.

Louise says, “This achievement shows our continued commitment to the environment, reinforcing the strength of Greyhound Box’s values. I would like to extend my thanks to Magdalena for all her hard work – finding the time to devote to this project alongside her role as GM was no mean feat!”

Magdalena reflects on what the recognition means to her personally, stating, “I feel a great sense of achievement about Greyhound Box being recognised with the FSC certification and I’m incredibly proud of our success.”

commitment to the environment,” she says. “Greyhound Box is on a continuous journey to limit the negative impact of its operations

Yet gold standard certification is just the start of Greyhound Box’s work with the FSC. The manufacturer is determined to continue finding new and improved ways to provide customers with corrugated cardboard solutions using responsibly sourced fo rest materials.

Bed Kingdom, an online retailer of bedroom furniture products and children’s beds, has won best online retailer in the annual Business Eli te Awards 2024.

The UK-based awards aim to recognise and showcase the efforts of highly skilled SMEs across the UK, using impartial judgement to highlight hardworking companies in vari ous industries.

Factors considered when judging include sector expertise, industry experience, company profile and highlights, significant accolades and achievements, client testimonials and recommendations, industry recognition and reputation, demonstrated innovation & company performance, history and establishment, and extracurricu lar activities.

Established in 2011, Bed Kingdom is a university project turned business founded by 35-year-old Ashley Hainsworth. The online retailer started selling mattresses online

Bed Kingdom recognised as best online retailer in SME awards

with an investment of just £400 while Ashley was studying at Huddersfield University, the fast-growing company now employs 28 people. Last year, the company made the Sunday Times Top 100 list after a 76.06% average annual sales growth over the past three years.

Flair Furniture was named in the Yorkshire Fastest 50 Companies list for 2024, highlighting the region's fastest-growing, privately owned companies. The e-commerce group also opened a new 70,000 sq ft facility last year to house stock and become the main distribution site for its brands.

Ashley explains: “We’re in the midst

of an exciting period of growth, reinvesting as much as we can back into the business to continue on this growth trajectory. Being recognised as best online retailer in the Business Elite Awards is an honour for us and goes a long way to demonstrate that the team’s hard work over the last few years is paying off.

“2024 is an important year for us, and strong results in Q1 will hopefully help us achieve our goal for 50% YoY growth this year. We’re making significant investments into the Bed Kingdom website and digital marketing activity, as well as expanding our showroom and developing an in-house studio for con tent creation.”

Construction date for New ‘Riverside’ sustainable homes development

Construction of ‘Saltaire Riverside’ - a vibrant new residential neighbourhood composed of 289 sustainable homes, commercial space and a large riverside park on the edge of the Salts Mills World Heritage Site in Saltaire, Shipley - is on track to start in early summer.

Urban regeneration specialist Artisan Real Estate is currently progressing the homes-led transformation of the 11-acre site sandwiched between the River Aire and the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, which was formerly home to an HMRC office complex that closed i n October 2021.

Demolition of the existing buildings on site - which mainly consist of two large five-storey hexagonal office blocks - is expected to be completed in the coming six weeks, followed by ground preparation works in advance of construction. Material from the demolition will be recycled and used to raise the levels of the site as part of major flood defence works, which will immediately follow the demolition programme.

Welcoming the progress on site, James Bulmer, managing director for Leeds-based Artisan Real Estate England, said: “Our local contractor, Metropolitan, has been

doing excellent work of taking down the existing buildings, and we will soon be moving to processing materials which will be crushed and recycled for re-use on site as part of the forthcoming construction project. We are now hosting regular design team meetings, working on the detailed technical drawing requirements needed to turn our ambitious vision into a reality. Our commercial teams will shortly be going out to tender to find suitable trade sub-contractors to partner with fo r the project.”

Michael Hirst, managing director at Metropolitan added: “This has been a great project for Metropolitan. The former HMRC building was a substantial reinforced concrete structure, but our highly skilled teams have been effective, diligent, and professional throughout. Artisan is an important client to us, and we are working with them on multiple developments

across England and Scotland. We look forward to a long-lasting relationship.”

Artisan’s plans for the new Saltaire Riverside development include the provision of 289 new homes, more than 5,000 sq. ft. of commercial office space designed for flexible working and a café facing on to a new ‘pocket’ park and piazza. A sizeable riverside park will seamlessly link the development to the river Aire, providing woodland, grasslands and lawns to act as a natural flood water storage area whilst pedestrian links will provide direct access to Saltaire Rail Station and the canal towpath.

Looking forward to the forthcoming launch of the first new homes phase at Saltaire Riverside, Mr Bulmer confirmed that a new Saltaire Riverside home-sales website will be launched shortly, allowing potential purchasers of to register their interest. He added: “We are excited about starting our initial homes phase, which will deliver a mix of apartments and townhouses to create a much needed sustainable and low carbon residenti al community.

“Our completed development will become a modern interpretation of the adjacent Saltaire Village, bringing much needed sustainable family housing in an accessible, well connected and environmentally responsible setting. It will spectacularly open a large riverside area, bringing interest and investment to the area and providing a natural, contemporary extension to the existing Saltaire footprint. This is a genuinely ground-breaking homes-led project in an area that is regularly voted as one of the best places to l ive in the UK.”

Sustainable construction leader wins national award

Normanton-based SIP Build UK has been announced as the winner of the inaugural Making Better Homes Award in the Best Building Fabric category. The awards, run by national builders' merchant Jewson, recognise tradespeople creating energy-efficient, safe, and comfortable homes across the UK.

SIP Build UK was selected from a shortlist of finalists after demonstrating their impressive commitment to sustainability. They were tasked with creating a highly insulated and airtight envelope using Structurally Insulated Panels (SIPs) for a customer's home in Colchester. The panels minimise heat transfer and energy loss through walls, providing excellent therm al performance.

Ian Still, SIP Build UK national sales director said: "It's fantastic to win Jewson's Building Better Homes Award. Working closely with the homeowner from the start helped ensure this dream Passive Haus Certified SIP home was a success. Seeing the family now enjoying the benefits of their thermally efficient SIPs home makes this project even more special."

"We are immensely proud of this project, as it shows the

perfect balance between energy efficiency and aesthetics. We entered the awards to showcase our dedication to quality, efficiency, and sustainability in construction. This award is not just an achievement, but a responsibility to keep providing excellent sustaina ble solutions."

The judging panel included industry leaders impressed by the project's use of modern methods and fabricfirst approach. Judge Matthew Handley said: "This high energy efficiency build is a great example of how SIPs can add value. The fabricfirst method and renewables have delivered a wonderful living space."

SIP Build UK remains committed to sustainable construction that exceeds expectations while reducing environmental impact. This national award recognises their leadership and innovation in creatin g better homes.

Yorkshire Agricultural Society honoured as King named patron

The Yorkshire Agricultural Society is honoured to announce that King Charles III will continue to be Patron of the charity.

The announcement follows a review of more than 1,000 Royal Patronages and charity Presidencies by the Royal Household, following His Majesty The King’s Accession.

Queen Elizabeth II was Patron of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society between 1952 and 1997 before King Charles III became the Society’s Patron as The Prince of Wales in 1998. His Majesty last visited the Great Yorkshire Show, which is organised by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, with Queen Camilla in 2021.

Allister Nixon, CEO of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, said: “We are

honoured and delighted to receive confirmation that King Charles III will continue to be Patron of the Society. We feel deeply privileged and very much look forward to welcoming the King and Queen back to the Show in the future.”

The Yorkshire Agricultural Society is the charity which organizes the Great Yorkshire Show and runs a family of businesses on the Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate. These include Fodder Farm Shop & Café, Yorkshire Event Centre, Pavilions of Harrogate

and

Tickets for the 165th Great Yorkshire Show – from Tuesday 9 July to Friday 12 July - are on sale now and will be in advance only, as visitor numbers are capped at 35,000 a day. Last year’s Show sold out a week before.

Tickets are: Adults £35, Children £13 and Families £86, please go online https://greatyorkshireshow.co.uk/ ticket-information/

Elland 16,000 sq ft industrial estate up for sale

A multi-let industrial estate located in Elland is up for sale freehold for offers in excess of £1.5m.

The development comprises nine units across 16,800 sq ft, ranging in size from 1,180 sq ft to 3,120 sq ft. It features two terraces and two detached workshops/light industrial units.

The site boasts excellent transport links, based within two miles of junction 24 of the M62 and the wider motorway network. In addition, Leeds city centre and Manchester city centre are just 15 and 20 miles away respectively.

Five of the units are currently let with an annual income of £98,000. When

fully let, the estate has an estimated rental value of £152,790 per annum.

Current occupiers at Heathfield Industrial Estate include Falconer Print & Packaging, animal feed specialist Brighouse Raw and Mercedes Benz and Smart repair specialists, Elite Independent.

West Yorkshire-based commercial property consultancy Walker Singleton and real estate consultants

Knight Frank are acting joint agents for the site, which is available to buy freehold for offers in excess of £1.5m

Commenting on the listing, Walker Singleton director, Ryan Barker said:

“We expect Heathfield Industrial Estate will attract a number of prospective buyers thanks to its strong invest ment potential.

“The site’s strategic location will further enhance its appeal to a range of potential occupiers thanks to its easy access to the motorway system, making it lucrative investmen t opportunity.

“We would encourage any interested parties to get in contact to discuss the opportunity and arra nge a viewing.”

the Harrogate Caravan Park.

France+Associates is the business of the month

Eaton Smith Solicitors is delighted to announce that France+Associates Limited has been chosen by the judging panel as the latest winner of its Business of the Month Award.

France+Associates are an award winning, specialist registered architectural practice based in Huddersfield, operating on a national level. They provide an all-encompassing architectural and surveying service, being instructed as property finders to help and assess a property prior to its purchase and take on a property project from inception and manage the process to completion.

The business was started by Jonathan France (Director), who saw a business opportunity to provide exclusive services to those requiring home improvements due to access issues by providing beautifully designed spaces to those affected by disability. Jonathan had originally found his love of working with individuals with significant access needs as early as 2008 when supporting clients via disability facility grant schemes, thereafter supporting individuals requiring significant changes

following catastrophic injury in the insurance market.

In addition to Eaton Smith’s Business of the Month Award, France+Associates have won other awards such as the LABC Building Excellence Awards and the Modern Law Awards (Supporting the Industry).

Worthy

Jonathan commented:

“France+Associates are proud to be locally recognised for the hard work we put in for individuals stuck in housing unsuitable to their needs. It's brilliant to have a job that can truly change lives, especially when it's a "job" we love so much. Our company has built a solid national reputation and is the go-to for solving property issues for injured parties, being one of the few firms offering such services in the UK. We're proud to do this right

here in the heart of Huddersfield, backed by a team that consistently shows passion, integrity, and true Yorkshire grit to turn a building project into a beautiful forever home.”

Ben Jackson, partner at Eaton Smith Solicitors, and member of the judging panel commented; “France+Associates are a worthy winner not just for the commercial success of the business, but also the values they hold and the way they help to improve the lives of those who have been affected by life-changing events outside their control”.

Ben Jackson chaired the judging panel and was joined by Martin Hathaway (Mid Yorkshire Chamber), Annie Bradley (Department of Business & Trade), Ian Parsons (Parsons Chartered Accountants) and Marianne Martin (Parsons Chartered Accountants).

You can apply for the business of the month award here - https://www. businessofthemonth.co.uk/

Tui lands at The Springs Leeds

TUI, the largest global travel and leisure company, has announced a new store opening at The Springs retail and leisure centre at Thorpe Park Leeds.

Scarborough Group International (SGI), which owns and manages The Springs, has agreed a five-year lease for TUI to occupy an 850 sq ft sq ft store situated prominently facing the north entrance to The Springs car park, and adjacent to EE, Pret A Manger an d Krispy Krème.

TUI will open the new store with several special launch promotions. It will create eight new jobs with a team of travel experts offering visitors advice on booking holidays, supporting existing bookings, as well as providing travel money exchange, insurance ser vices and more.

Delighted

The announcement follows just a few months after the opening of Starbucks at The Springs Leeds, a popular destination that has seen

a surge of interest from big name brands. Hotel Chocolat, Cook, Pret A Manger and Loungers have all taken occupation in the last 12 months, with more new openings i n the pipeline.

Rachel Vickers, senior commercial manager at SGI, said: “We are delighted to welcome TUI to The Springs Leeds as a perfect addition to our m ixed offering.

The Springs is an extremely popular destination and, since the opening of the East Leeds Orbital Link Road, our visitor numbers have increased by around 30% monthon-month. This is largely because

of Thorpe Park’s established business community of over 7,500 people, together with a high volume of passing trade, as well as the significant East Leeds residential community on our doorstep. We see visitors coming from Harrogate, Wetherby and even further afield because of the complete shopping and entertainment package found a t The Springs.”

We are all very excited about the new store opening, especially due to its location within the retail park...

Michelle Rushton, store manager at TUI said: “We are all very excited about the new store opening, especially due to its location within the retail park. We have had a great interactive team session this week to ignite our team spirit ahead of opening and we can’t wait to welcome in our first customers through the doors when we open this week.

“No two days have ever been the same in the 30 years I’ve been a travel agent, but nothing will beat the simple pleasure of giving our TUI customers memories that will last th em a lifetime!”

The UK’s leading developer of specialised leak detection, water sustainability and environmental protection systems, Andel, has won three awards for sustainability in as many months.

The Yorkshire SME scooped the Sustainable/ Ethical Manufacturing award at Made in Sheffield recently, completing the hattrick, after the company also won the Sustainable/ Ethical Manufacturer award at Insider's 2024 Made in Yorkshire Awards last month and the Sustainability Award at the Barnsley and Rotherham Business Awards at the end of last year.

Now Andel goes forward with two entries into the Made in UK final awards next month.

Headquartered in Barnsley, Andel specialises in water, oil and gas leak detection systems to protect the built and natural environment. The Made in Sheffield Awards judges praised Andel's multi-faceted approach to

Andel scoops three sustainability awards in as many months

sustainability that other businesses can be inspired by.

Made in Yorkshire judges noted that Andel is not only working to reduce its environmental impact by investing in its facilities, but has also demonstrated a commitment to the wellbeing of its workforce and the local community, and supports charitable causes overseas.

At the Barnsley and Rotherham Business Awards 2023, Andel received the award as recognition of the huge commitment it has made in reducing its environmental impact in its journey to net zero.

The Barnsley-based global environmental protection specialist

has more than 30 years of experience in leak detection, pollution preven-tion and flood defence and an impressive customer base that includes the Houses of Parliament, The Pentagon, Hong Kong International Air-port and Google, and took the bold decision in 2020 to become Net Ze-ro by 2025. In June 2022 the company took on a Net Zero and Sus-tainability Coordinator to facilitate and oversee the initiatives required to meet the target.

Commercial director, Mark Harris, said: “It’s a hattrick”! Three entered and three won – it must be a first! Either way, we are delighted.

“We won these awards purely based on the hard work and dedication of all our employees so it is great thatFF

their work i s recognised by these awards.

“Since committing to Net Zero by 2025, we have implemented numerous changes to the business such as its pledge to the Yorkshire and Humber Climate Commission, receiving ‘achiever’ category due to the efforts and strategies that have been put in place.

“In 2021 we moved our head office to Dodworth Business Park to premises with a much higher EPC rating and has switched utility provider to a renewable energy provider for both electricity and gas, saving 80,00KWh of fossil fuel per year.

“In 2022 we changed refuse collection to a company that could weigh the amount of waste and include recycling and food as a waste stream which meant 99.6% of our waste has been diverted from landfills.”

“In 2023, we created a wildflower meadow at our head office on the busy A628. The meadow has reduced ongoing ground maintenance costs, improved biodiversity, provided a wildlife habitat, brightened up an industrial estate, sequestered carbon in the soil and allowed staff to engage in a rewarding environmental project.

“Over the past year we have also replaced our fleet of vehicles with electric cars, installed EV chargers at head office for all staff, and reduced our fossil fuel fleet by 80% and have plans to de-carbonise the remaining fleet and reduce its size, reducing its carbon footprint even further.

“I think that this just shows how small changes have far-reaching impacts. So, I’m looking forward to seeing what more we can do in our bid to save our planet for now and future generations.”

L-R Johnny

Firms sign agreement to kickstart transformational South Village scheme

Caddick Group,the leading privately owned property and construction firm, has signed a memorandum of understanding with Homes England, the government’s housing and regeneration agency to work together to accelerate the delivery of South Village in Leeds.

Located just off Meadow Road, the £1bn South Village scheme, which can deliver up to 1,925 new homes, will be a focal point for the wider South Bank regeneration area - one of the largest brownfield projects in the UK. It received unanimous approval from Leeds City Council’s City Plans Panel in March, where it was praised for the quality of its vision and design.

Caddick, Alison Gillespie, Lee Savage, Peter Denton, Martin Farrington

Caddick has been working with the local authority to help accelerate the delivery of homes in the city. This agreement with Homes England is a step towards the infrastructure works starting on site before the end of the year, allowing the first plots to emerge in 2025.

Sustainable

South Village is the new name for the City One development area, a 10 acre site on Leeds’ South Bank. Forming part of the wider vision to regenerate this underutilised area of the city centre, the South Village masterplan, created by the award-winning SimpsonHaugh

Architects, will create new pedestrian connections, extend emerging green corridors across the centre and set aside more than half of the site for lan dscaped spaces.

Focused on a contemporary village green the size of a professional sports field, the project will also offer up to 450 hotel beds and 70,000m2 of commercial space, specifically targeting businesses looking for highly sustainable n ew facilities.

The project will also feature a travel hub, maximising connectivity with West Yorkshire’s proposed mass transit system and its plan ned Leeds line.

Lee Savage, director at Caddick Developments said: “This agreement with Homes England will be instrumental in accelerating our work on this project, allowing us to begin delivering much-needed city centre housing at pace, while also introducing significant public realms for all to enjoy. The ambition is that South Village will effectively redefine contemporary urban living in Leeds, located in the heart of the city centre, but offering all the amenity of traditiona l village life.

“Thank you to Homes England, our city partners and the wider project team for their support to date in accelerating this transforma tional scheme.”

Peter Denton, chief executive officer at Homes England, said: "South Village has a significant role to play in the ongoing transformation of Leeds' South Bank. West Yorkshire and Leeds have a clear vision for the city’s future, and we're pleased to be working with Caddick and other

local partners to bring that one step clos er to reality."

The project will feature a travel hub with a view to maximising connectivity with West Yorkshire’s proposed mass transit system and its planned Leeds line.

Councillor James Lewis, Leader of Leeds City Council, said “Developments like South Village are a great example of the wider South Bank’s potential, and illustrate why we have worked so hard to encourage regeneration activity there.

Opportunity

“South Village’s mix of homes, hotel accommodation, commercial opportunities and green space will complement the many other transformative projects that have already helped make the South Bank an exciting place to live, work, visit and spend time. “It’s particularly pleasing that this scheme has scope for providing nearly 2,000 new homes and will therefore align with our own efforts to deliver good-quality housing on repurposed brownfield land in communities across the city.”

Kerrie Buckley, associate partner at SimpsonHaugh Architects said: “We are thrilled to hear Caddick Group have secured an agreement with Homes England to help bring forward development at South Village in Leeds. Placemaking is at the heart of our vision for this residential-led mixed use masterplan and we are excited to see the emergence of a distinctive new neighbourhood at the southern gateway into Leeds city centre.” “There has already been strong interest in the site, therefore I would advise any interested parties to get in contact to discuss the opportunity and arrange a viewing.”

Yorkshire Children’s Charity Bolstered By Business Expertise

A Yorkshire charity is scaling up to support more of the region’s disadvantaged children through the appointment of two established bu siness leaders.

Managing director of Skipton Properties, Sarah Barraclough, has joined the board of trustees at The Principle Trust, which provides respite breaks for children who are underprivileged, disadvantaged, disabled, have life-limiting conditions, or

who have experienced poverty, t rauma or abuse.

Sarah, 42, took on the role of managing director at Skipton Properties in 2019 and has been involved in the business for over two decades. The family-

run firm became patrons of The Trust in 2022.

At the same time, Skipton businessman Andrew Davies, who has been a trustee of the charity since 2018, has taken on a new, senior role. He will lead the charity as it expands its operation in response to the cost-of-living crisis which has exacerbated the challenges faced

by disadvantaged families. Andrew, 42, recently stepped on from his role as managing director of health supplement manufacturer Principle Healthcare, to lead The Trust alongside his father, the charity’s chairman and founder, Mi ke Davies, MBE.

Commenting on her new role, Sarah said’ “Having seen the important work of The Principle Trust at first hand for the last two years, I’m delighted to be joining the board of trustees and am excited by the prospect of supporting the charity as it expands to meet the needs of some of the county’s most disadvant aged families.”

Andrew added, “I’m looking forward to leading The Trust as it continues to extend support to Yorkshire families. Our focus will be on reaching more families across the region through new

and existing referring partners, acquiring more respite lodges and engaging more corporate patrons who want to make a difference to children experiencing long term, life threatening or limiting illnesses disabilities, mental health issues or socia l deprivation.”

Since then, the Trust has raised over £1.7m, purchased six holiday homes and provided respite breaks for over 5000 children across Yorkshire. In 2017 Mr. Davies was awarded an MBE in recognition of his services to business and disadvan taged children.

We are all very excited about the new store opening, especially due to its location within the retail park...

Commenting on new appointments, Mike said, “Over the past 13 years we have helped thousands of disadvantaged, disabled and poorly children to escape their everyday troubles and create valuable, happy memories. Sarah and Andrew both bring considerable experience to our board, and I look forward to working with them as we continue to extend our services to families acr oss Yorkshire.”

Inspired by his own traumatic childhood, Mike Davies established the Skipton-based charity in 2011.

The Trust has also announced the appointments of Events Manager Georgina Simpson and Respite Home Coordinator, Helen Greaves.

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T&R Theakston launches The Great Yorkshire Inn

Independent family-owned brewery T&R Theakston will be quenching the thirsts of Great Yorkshire Show goers as they take over the management of the main bar - the “Great Yorkshire Inn”.

The Great Yorkshire Inn will be serving a selection of Theakston’s legendary beers, from firm favourites such as Old Peculier and Best Bitter, to new products including best-selling 3.4% Quencher and new Peculier IPA.

The brewery will occupy the main bar marquee, with an accompanying shop alongside the bar, offering visitors the opportunity to try and take home the fruits of the brewery’s almost 200 years of brewing experience.

As one of the last breweries in the country to have an in-house cooperage, and recently working with Journeyman Cooper Euan Findlay to launch Findlay’s Cooperage, the brewery will also be performing live demonstrations of the ancient art of barrel making.

Simon Theakston, chairman of

Theakston Brewery has been closely involved with the Yorkshire Agricultural Society since 1983, having taken on stewardship, trustee, board, Chairman and Presidents roles in that time.

He commented: “Having been longstanding supporters of the Show over many years, we’re thrilled to be bringing The Great Yorkshire Inn to the Great Yorkshire Show and continuing our support for the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, widely acclaimed to be organisers of the greatest agricultural show in the country.

“Throughout our almost two centuries of business, we’ve always been incredibly proud of our Yorkshire roots and brewing heritage, working hand in hand with farmers from across Yorkshire and the north of England to ensure only the finest ingredients

go into making our range of beers. It’s also a pleasure to come together with similarly likeminded businesses to celebrate the fantastic quality produce grown and made here in our heartland. We’re looking forward to what is sure to be another wonderful show.”

Charles Mills, show director said: “Simon Theakston has been closely involved with Yorkshire Agricultural Society since 1983 and has taken on a number of important roles over the years which support the Show. We are delighted to welcome The Great Yorkshire Inn as a new addition to the Show this year and are sure it will go down a storm with visitors this year.”

Starting on the 9th of July and running over four days, the Great Yorkshire Show – now in its 165th year – is a celebration of agriculture, food, farming and countryside. Organised by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, it is one of the biggest agricultural events in the UK, and is set to welcome 140,000 visitors over its four days.

2025

Yorkshire BusinessWoman Awards 2025 – save the date

Following the success of the inaugural Yorkshire Businesswoman Awards 2024, work has now begun on preparing for the 2025 awards, which will see us return to the Marriott Hotel Leeds. Save the date 7th March 2025 as we once again celebrate the women of Yorkshire on International Women’s Day.

There are still a few category sponsors left, including two new ones: Small Business of the Year and Large Business of the Year, some main sponsor options and both ticket and programme sponsors. This year, businesses can sponsor a table at just £350.

There are 12 categories for you to nominate a worthy businesswoman of your choosing and nominations will open on our website in September, following our official sponsor launch event, alongside ticket sales which sold out within

weeks for the 2024 awards. If you would like to secure a table or ticket, you can go onto the early bird list by emailing editor@ yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk places are limited, so let us know early if you would like to be involved.

We are grateful to all the businesses who supported our first awards and delighted that many of them are returning as sponsors for the second year, including last year’s headline sponsor Chadwick Lawrence. Confirmed so far are:

• Business Structures & Reorganisations

• Commercial Debt Collection

• Commercial Disputes

• Commercial Property

• Contracts

• Employment

• Intellectual Property

• International Trade & Transactions

• Internet Trading

• Mediation of Business Disputes

• Mergers, Acquisitions and Disposals

• Planning & Licensing

• Starting In Business

• Accident Claims

• Child Care

• Collaborative Law

• Dispute Resolution

• Employment Problems

• Matrimonial & Family

• Medical Negligence Claims

• Planning for Retirement

• Residential Property

• Road Traffic Cases

• The Law & The Elderley

• Wills, Trusts & Probate

Scientists make potential breakthrough in fight against breast cancer

Scientists say they have made a potentially “game-changing” breakthrough in breast cancer research following a discovery in how to preserve breast tissue outside the body for at least one week.

The study, funded by the Prevent Breast Cancer charity, found that tissue could be preserved in a gel solution, which will help scientists identify the most effective drug treatments for patients.

Experts found the preserved tissue maintained its cell types, structure and ability to respond to a series of drugs in the same way as normal breast tissue.

Dr Hannah Harrison, research fellow at the University of Manchester, said the discovery would help scientists

test the most appropriate drugs on living tissue for the prevention and treatment of breast cancer.

She added “There are various riskreducing options for women at high risk of developing breast cancer – for example, those with a significant family history or who have mutations in the BRCA genes.

“However, not all drugs work for all women. This new approach means that we can start to determine which drugs will work for which women by measuring their impact on living tissue.

“Ultimately, this means that women can take the most effective drug for their particular genetic makeup.”

Hannah and her team were able to keep breast tissue viable outside the body for relatively long periods. “By testing different hydrogel formulas we were able to find a solution that preserves human breast tissue for at least a week – and often even longer.”

“This is a real game-changer for breast

cancer research in many ways. We can better test drugs for both the prevention and treatment of cancer, and can examine how factors like breast density – which we know is a risk factor for breast cancer – react to particular hormones or chemicals to see if this has an impact on cancer development.”

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If you or a relative have been injured as a result of clinical/medical negligence, please call for free legal advice from our medical negligence lawyers on the freephone number below or e-mail us.

Posted by Karen Motley, Clinical Negligence Department, Chadwick Lawrence LLP (jacquelinevance@ chadlaw.co.uk), medical negligence lawyers and clinical negligence solicitors in Huddersfield, Leeds, Wakefield and Halifax, West Yorkshire.

Restrictive covenants

Barbenheimer,

busybodies, builders, and the upper tribunal

You are a young first-time buyer and buy an old property to revamp to sell on in the future. You want to change the external look of the property or change the fence panels in the garden.

It is your property, you can do as you please; or can you? 6 months later, you receive a knock on the door from your neighbour bringing to your attention a ‘restrictive covenant’ on your property’s title which does not allow you to change the externals or change the garden fence. Suddenly your project comes to a halt and you have no idea where to turn.

Subject to exceptions, these are called ‘restrictive covenants’ and are noted on the Land Registry Official Copies but some may refer to an archived document. It is ultimately a contract between 2 landowners. Some agreed between two neighbours over 100 years ago. We have previously discussed that much property has changed hands and many have sold off parts of their land to raise some quick funds to help with the cost of living. Even in 2024, the seller can transfer part of their land and agree during the transaction with the new buyer to not use their new land in a certain way. This then binds future buyers.

Any layperson may wonder what a covenant that was agreed 100 years ago, has to do with me or why the seller made me buy the house with it on. The story behind why it does, is why blockbuster movies have the space to have lavish red carpet events at Leicester Square.

Leicester Square, London

Leicester Square in London has created a spectacle for film premieres, including both Barbie and Oppenheimer. Millions will have seen the famous red carpet and it is one of the very few open spaces in that area of London. Many people will not know that the reason why the square is what it is today is because of a busybody and a builder.

Charles Tulk owned a few properties in the area and owned part of the square that was a picturesque garden. In 1808,

he sold part of his land which included the garden. He sold it on the basis that the garden would be maintained and no buildings to be erected on it. Agreeing a restrictive covenant. Over the next few decades, the garden changed hands many times. It became known as a ‘neglected and dirty place’ as nobody bothered to maintain it. In 1841 nearly 40 years later, a builder called Edward Moxhay – who now owned the gardens – began cutting trees down. Mr Tulk walked past and to his horror saw this destruction, and immediately lodged an application for an injunction to prevent Mr Moxhay from carrying on. Mr Moxhay disputed on the basis that this contract on the land had nothing to do with him and the restriction had been agreed 40 years ago. The public no longer used the garden because it was ‘a disgrace to the neighbourhood’. The Master of the Rolls made an order in favour of Mr Tulk and prevented Mr Moxhay from using it in any way inconsistent with using it as an open garden with no buildings to be erected on it. It is thanks to Mr Tulk meddling in someone else’s business that a restrictive covenant ‘runs with the land’ and is the reason why Leicester Square still stands today.

Mr Tulk and Mr Moxhay both died shortly after, but their legacy that a restrictive covenant binds future purchasers still lives on 200 years later and can be the subject of neighbour disputes and problems with the sale of property.

Modification or Discharge?

There are numerous remedies to enforce against someone in breach of a restrictive covenant. Some landowners may note a drop in interest should potential buyers be furnished with knowledge of the covenant if they want to buy it but are prohibited from doing something with it. It may be possible to negotiate the release or variation of the covenant.

It may also be possible to take out indemnity insurance to cover the possibility of a knock on the door by another Mr Tulk.

If none of these are possible then an application can be made to the Upper Tribunal (Lands Chamber). The Tribunal has jurisdiction over disputes relating to land but specifically restrictive covenants. It acts as an arbitrator and the process that applicants must follow is niche as it falls out of the usual Civil Litigation procedure.

The Upper Tribunal can discharge or modify the restriction if satisfied that one of the following grounds applies:

• The covenant is obsolete.

• The covenant impedes some reasonable use of the land.

• If both parties agree to modify or discharge.

• Where no injury will be caused.

It is important to know that the Tribunal has wide discretion and, in some cases, even if no objections are received, the Tribunal can still prevent a total discharge if they consider the covenant adds positive value. The main thing is that there are solutions despite it being an alien process.

How can Chadwick Lawrence help?

Legal advice from the outset is important. Neighbours do not usually like to receive solicitors’ letters but having professional representation can make negotiations cost efficient and if required can navigate the specialist process within the Tribunal. Once the process is complete, correct registration at Land Registry can ensure no disputes can arise in the future.

New Group managing director marks exciting future for regional housebuilder

Regional housebuilder Harron Homes has appointed James Poynor to the role of group managing director following the retirement of Ian Pendlebury after a decade with the business.

Latterly managing director for Taylor Wimpey Manchester, James, 51, boasts a 20 year career working in the property sector in senior leadership roles, making him well placed to take the business forward, building on Harron’s already enviable reputation for crafting executive family homes.

James said, ‘I was already familiar with Harron Homes and impressed by the beautiful designs and handpicked

locations. Having now spent time getting to know the people behind the scenes I’m inspired by the commitment and desire to succeed.

‘This is a great opportunity for me

to influence the business and play a more strategic role in how Harron evolves at what is a key moment in our sector. Challenges in the market are really putting housebuilders to the test and now is the time to unlock the potential of the business by putting the customer centre stage.’

James concluded, ‘I’m looking to drive consistency, develop our offering and ultimately grow our operational area making Harron the employer and housebuilder of choice.

‘With a strong heritage, ability to be agile when needed and a reputation for building in the most sought-after locations we have the foundations of a very exciting future.’

Site manager wins housebuilding industry accolade

Avant Homes Yorkshire is celebrating after one of its senior site managers won an industry award for the second year running at its 226-home Fitzwilliam Grange development in Huddersfield.

Steve Baldwin has received another National House Building Council (NHBC) Pride in the Job Quality Award for his work at the development.

It makes him one of just 443 quality award-winning site managers selected from more than 8,000 across the UK this year.

The NHBC Pride in the Job awards has been recognising site manager best practice and rewarding excellence for more than 40 years. It is regarded as the housebuilding industry’s most prestigious awards programme of its type.

Steve has been in the construction industry for more than 30 years after

starting his career as a joiner, before joining Avant Homes as an assistant site manager 20 years ago. Since then, Steve has managed 11 developments across Yorkshire.

Commenting on his double award win, Steve said: “I am very fortunate to work with an outstanding team. Winning back-to-back Pride in the Job Quality Awards is testament to their capability and dedication to delivering great new homes for our customers.

“My role is to ensure we collectively aim to achieve high standards across all areas of our build process to ensure the overall performance. We will continue to focus on these objectives throughout the development process.”

The awards judges look for site managers to be consistent in the high standards of workmanship across their development, attention to detail, technical expertise, the ability to lead the on-site team, excellent interpretation and a commitment to efficient health and safety. Pride in the Job winners now go on to compete in NHBC’s Seal of Excellence and Regional Awards this autumn and, if successful, the national Supreme Awards i n January 2023.

Yorkshire managing director, Alastair Hart, added: “Winning a Pride in the Job Quality Award once is a great achievement, but to win it two years consecutively for the same development really is something special. “Steve thoroughly deserves this recognition as he is someone who sets the highest of standards and leads by example. He is a great asset to our business, and we are all very pleased to see him awar ded once more.”

Mayor partners with private firms to accelerate transition to net zero

West Yorkshire is set to become “greener, quicker” thanks to a ground-breaking new partnership between the public and the private sector, says Mayor Tracy Brabin.

The West Yorkshire Strategic Climate and Environment Partnership was announced at the major international investor conference, UKREiiF. It will see the re-elected West Yorkshire Mayor team up with four major private

sector firms to accelerate delivery of the region's net zero plans.

The companies will work alongside the mayor on targeted activity to deliver green skills, decarbonise homes and

During my first term, I was proud to invest over £200 million in green projects...

Tracy Brabin & Neil Kirkby, MD at SSE

businesses, and put the region on the path to net zero carbon by 2038. In return, the firms will benefit from the Mayor and Combined Authority's influence and leadership on climate and the environment, giving them the confidence to invest in West Yorkshire at scale.

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “During my first term, I was proud to invest over £200 million in green projects. Working with partners, we insulated social homes, match-funded businesses to green their processes, put electric buses on our roads, and provided direct grants to communities to lower their carbon footprint.

“But we will not deliver net zero without bringing the private sector with us. This ground-breaking new partnership will help us become greener, quicker and deliver net zero at scale and at speed, cutting energy bills in a cost of living crisis, and building a brighter region for future generations.”

The four firms which make up the new climate partnership with the mayor are:

• Centrica, the owner of British Gas and energy supplier to over 10 million homes and businesses

• Daikin, the multinational heating, and cooling manufacturer

• SSE, the leading clean energy company

• Sustainable Building Services, one of the UKs largest retrofitters of homes.

Dan Rosenfield, managing director of Centrica Net Zero, said: “Helping people live smarter, greener lives requires strong collaboration and partnerships. We’re delighted to work with West Yorkshire

Combined Authority to support their net zero journey.

“Our purpose is to energise a greener, fairer future. We will work collaboratively with WYCA and other partners to help make net zero simple and affordable, utilising our Hive smart energy system and inhouse expertise.”

Hiro Ishikawa, Managing Director of Daikin UK, said: “Daikin is delighted to be a strategic partner of the West Yorkshire Strategic Climate & Environment Partnership.

“Switching to sustainable energy is critical to meeting net zero targets, and our heat pump solutions will help make homes greener, warmer, and more energy efficient. This exciting new partnership means we will work together to support the region in its vital decarbonisation goals.

“We look forward to working closely with communities and wider stakeholders to develop and upskill the West Yorkshire region and support the lowcarbon transition.

Neil Kirkby, managing director of Enterprise at SSE Energy Solutions, said: “Our agreement to work closely with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) is further evidence of SSE's commitment to engaging with local communities to ensure a fair transition to a sustainable future. Our expertise in decarbonisation and renewable energy together with the WYCA's ambition to play its part in tackling climate change has enormous potential to drive change and this collaboration is one that can be replicated with regions throughout the UK and Ireland.

“At SSE we are investing in the communities where we operate, driving local economic growth, and working to unlock the potential of

low-carbon technologies. If we can foster the development of a skilled green workforce, we will build a cleaner, greener future for generations to come.”

Derek Horrocks, owner of Sustainable Building Services (UK) Ltd, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been selected by The West Yorkshire Strategic Climate and Environment Partnership as one of the four major private firms to come together with them to form this ground-breaking Public/Private strategic partnership to create large scale green communities with a central ethos of ‘greener quicker for future generations’ across West Yorkshire.

“We look forward to bringing our expertise to this collaboration in delivering building decarbonisation at scale and speed, alongside our wider group offering of blending private/public sector funding and vision to offer every household a financially viable solution to decarbonise their homes, alongside our extremely innovative Fintech and Proptech offerings to support the funding of solutions for all and to provide the ability to monitor and evaluate closely the outcomes of the decarbonisation interventions we install”.

To turbocharge the road to net zero, the Combined Authority will also deepen its relationship with the Green Finance Institute, Leeds Building Society, and the Energy Saving Trust.

The three organisations will advise and support the mayor to deliver on her most recent election pledges. Mayor Brabin has promised to put in place a programme to retrofit every social home in West Yorkshire, and to set-up a retrofit “one-stop-shop” to help every household reduce their energy bills.

Leeds Building Society’s Senior Strategy Manager, Nicola Glover, will be working closely with the mayor over the next FF

three months to explore the financial options for West Yorkshire residents to deliver retrofit work that improves the energy efficiency of their homes and reduces their energy bills.

Andrew Greenwood, Deputy Chief Executive Officer at Leeds Building Society, said: “We are proud to contribute Nicola’s time and expertise to simplify the finance options for greener home improvements within our heartland. We recently conducted some research* which shows that 8% people don’t know where to start when considering making green improvements to their home. We hope this partnership will help to simplify the process for those considering starting any retrofit work on their home.

“Leeds Building Society is committed to an orderly transition to net zero. We were the first lender to reward buyers opting for greener homes by factoring in lower energy bill commitments into our lending decisions. Through this partnership, we hope to be able to help more people to improve the energy efficiency of their homes.”

Emma Harvey-Smith, Chief of Staff at the Green Finance Institute, said: “Local and Combined Authorities have a deep understanding of their residents’ needs and are increasingly acknowledging the potential of partnering with the private finance sector to ensure fair access to finance for their communities.

“We are thrilled to engage in the collaboration with WYCA and Leeds Building Society to support the Better Homes Hub programme. Together, we will delve into catalytic financial models which can offer the opportunity to empower a diverse range of consumers when it comes to retrofitting their homes. This initiative stands as an exemplar of effective public-private partnerships in action.”

MRP’s magnificent Leeds city centre office building is now complete

MRP’s City Square House, the stunning new 140,000 sq ft office building next to Leeds Station, is now complete.

This major landmark, which has been speculatively developed by MRP and built by McAleer and Rushe, is the most significant new office building in Leeds for a generation.

It is proved to be a resounding

success story with an astonishing 85 per cent of the building already let.

The completion of City Square House is an integral part of the extensive public realm improvement works at City Square. Its stunning design, with extensive use of locally sourced steel,

now provides an unrivalled presence in both City Square and the adjacent Leeds Station.

The building’s high-profile tenants are leading global law firm DLA Piper, SME insurance specialist Markel and professional services consultancy Barnett Waddingham.

Its doors were officially opened on 22nd May at a grand reception with guests including the key partners and occupiers of the iconic development.

The prime workspace comprises Grade A office accommodation over 12-storeys including low carbon credentials, terraces on the 4th, 5th and 6th levels and extensive cycling, electric vehicle and e-bike charging point facilities.

There is currently 5,600 sq ft of quality office space on the ground floor, with its own private entrance, and 15,900 sq ft on the second floor, still available to lease.

Angus Montieth, development director at MRP, commented: “The practical completion of City Square House is a massive milestone to celebrate. We have created the best-in-class prime office development in Leeds, unrivalled in its location and with sustainability and wellbeing at the heart of its design. It boasts an impressive tenant community and we are confident that we will set a new prime rent in Leeds of £40 per sq ft.

“It’s been an amazing journey and a huge collaborative effort to turn the

dream of a magnificent Leeds city centre office building into reality. It is the final piece of the City Square regeneration plan and a significant investment and vote of confidence in the city. I’d like to thank Leeds City Council, who have backed our vision from the very start and have been so supportive, our construction partners McAleer & Rushe, our quality occupiers, who vindicated our decision to develop the building speculatively, and Eamon Fox of Knight Frank, the sole letting agents. They have all played their part in the astounding success of City Square House, which is now an integral part of both the Leeds business quarter and the city’s skyscape.”

Jonathan O’Neill, senior director at design & build contractors McAleer & Rushe, added: “City Square House has been an exciting, challenging and rewarding project for us. Now this iconic building is completed, we are so proud. There’s no doubt that City Square House is a magnificent addition to the built environment in Leeds city centre and a symbol of the city’s thriving economy.”

Eamon Fox, partner and head of office agency at global property consultancy Knight Frank in Leeds, who advises MRP, commented: “It is tremendous to see the completion of this flagship building, which provides a very genuine cause to be optimistic about the commercial property sector in Yorkshire. We expect this strong demand for the best workspace will continue.”

“City Square House is the iconic new office development that the Leeds market has been waiting for. It underlines the fact that Leeds is now one of the most flourishing regional cities, not just in the UK, but in Europe.”

Apprentice supports over £100k revenue growth

Brand Ambition, a prominent digital marketing agency based in Leeds, has reported over £100,000 in revenue growth, significantly attributed to the contributions of Sophie Wright, a web development apprentice recruited through the Government apprenticeship scheme facilitated by The Coders Guild.

This apprenticeship was funded by the Apprenticeship Levy, with ASDA contributing to Sophie's training costs.

In a strategic move to enhance its service capabilities, Brand Ambition created a dedicated web development department in 2023. This initiative not only expanded the agency's service offerings but also incorporated experienced professionals seeking new career paths. Among these professionals,

Sophie Wright has been a standout, bringing critica l skills to her role in web development despite being new to the industry.

Sophie's ability to manage complex web builds has quickly made her an indispensab le part of the team. Her involvement has been pivotal in the successful delivery of enhanced digital marketing strategies, contributing directly to the agency's impressive revenue growth.

Sam Raife, managing director commented: "As a growing SME, diversifying our skills and team has been crucial to our success. Partnering with the right organisations has pushed the boundaries of what we thought possible. Working with Sophie on her new career path, supported by The Coders Guild and our development partners, has enabled us to create a new department while maintaining our core focus on SEO and customer service. I couldn't be prouder of our achievements, and I'm excited to expand the department to include more apprentices in the coming months as a result of our growth."

Crispin Read, CEO of The Coders Guild, added, "It's incredibly rewarding to see experienced professionals like Sophie

transition into new roles through our apprenticeship programme. By upskilling individuals who are eager for a career change, we help them achieve their goals while simultaneously meeting the specific needs of forward-thinking companies like Brand Ambition. This collaboration has been a great success, showcasing the power of targeted training and development."

Sophie shared her experience, saying, "Joining Brand Ambition as an apprentice has been incredibly rewarding. The tailored training and support provided by The Coders Guild have equipped me with the specialised skills needed for our projects and given me the confidence to take on more ambitious challenges. It’s been unbelievably empowering to see the impact my work is having both on our clients and within the company itself."

Mickey Greenhalgh, senior director – Learning, Leadership & ED&I from ASDA commented on their involvement: "At ASDA, we recognise the critical importance of skills and training in driving business success and economic growth. It’s fantastic to see the Apprenticeship Levy being utilised in such a successful way. Supporting initiatives like this helps nurture talent and ensures a highly skilled workforce f or the future."

Ambition

Brand Ambition’s investment in apprenticeships like Sophie’s is part of a broader strategy to foster innovation and adaptability among its workforce, ensuring the agency remains at the forefront of the digital marketing industry. This approach has enabled Brand Ambition to expand its client base

and enhance service delivery, setting new benchmarks in the sector.

Local and National Impact: Brand Ambition’s success story exemplifies the potential of apprenticeship programmes to drive economic growth both locally in Leeds and on a national scale. By leveraging the Apprenticeship Levy and partnering with organisations like The Coders Guild and ASDA, Brand Ambition is helping to build a skilled workforce ready to meet the demands of the digital economy.

The agency is preparing for further growth in 2024, with continued expansions in web development and paid search, alongside introducing new, cost-effective SPARK* Service Offerings. These initiatives are designed to deliver high-quality digital marketing solutions, reinforcing Brand Ambition's market position as a leader in the digi tal landscape.

We All Love Leeds!

New research reveals that nearly half of those renting in the city are originally from the area, with 44% choosing to stay nearby their hometown of Leeds.

The research, conducted by popular rental brand UNCLE has delved into residents’ desires and wants when it comes to renting in the city.

With Leeds just recently named the best place to live in the North and Northeast by The Sunday Times, Leeds is a true Northern powerhouse. It is home to the UK’s biggest financial and legal centre outside London, with blue-chip firms such as Deloitte and KPMG, as well as Sky and Channel 4. It is also the only city outside London to have its own

UNCLE's state-of-the-art kitchen includes Bosch appliances

theatres, ballet, and opera house, as well as having a buzzing social and cultural scene.

Houses in Leeds have become more competitive for prospective buyers, with the average asking price of a newly

listed home rising by 1.3%, with 5% more buyer demand. Despite this demand to buy in the city, renting is showing no signs of slowing down, with nearly a quarter of residents (23%) claiming although they can afford to buy a home, they prefer renting.

It’s no surprise Leeds is a popular renting destination. The city is the second friendliest behind Birmingham, with three in 10 (28%) renters liking the community feel of living in a rented apartment block. People in Leeds also like renting due to the lack of long-term financial commitment (33%) and not having to worry about maintenance or upkeep of their home (30%).

Three in 10 (30%) Leeds renters’ hometown isn’t far away, making it one of the most popular cities for renters to live near their families, only behind Belfast (57%), Sheffield (39%) and Manchester (32%). Leeds is a central hub location-wise, not too far away from other major cities and with great transport links.

Jobwise, Leeds is the third most desirable city to further one's career, with 14% of renters moving to Leeds for a job, only behind Manchester (33%)

and Glasgow (17%). This is fitting with The Sunday Times’ review of the city, highlighting the great job prospects in Leeds due to its home of the Big Four firms. The city is becoming an up-andcoming spot for young professionals, shown by how many people are moving to the city for work.

When it comes to what renters are looking for in the city, Leeds renters list gyms and cinemas as a feature missing from their rental (40%). At UNCLE Leeds, it has bespoke, designed amenity spaces, which include a cinema room and residents’ gym. Unlike any

other apartment block in Leeds, it also includes a resident-only bowling alley.

Ryan Prince, founder of UNCLE Leeds, commented: “Cities are the lifeblood of modern society and Leeds is a perfect example. The city has its own independent spirit boasting a varied culture, nightlife and thriving food and drink scene, and this is why we wanted to invest in rental solutions in Leeds. It comes as no surprise that the majority of renters in Leeds have stayed close to the area and continue to invest in the city and it’s a prime reason, we are continuing to invest in the city with our next building opening in 2025.

“It’s also music to our ears that renters in Leeds are looking for more desirable amenities such as gyms and cinemas. With our thoughtfully designed amenity spaces, which includes both a gym and a cinema amongst others, UNCLE Leeds is designed with the health and happiness of residents in mind. Our mission is to “take the ‘lord’ out of landlord” and it’s clear that renters in Leeds understand how important it is to live in buildings where residents are treated right. Our residents’ needs are important to us, so we want to ensure that their wellbeing is at the forefront of our priorities.”

UNCLE provides ultra-comfy beds for its tenants

CGI of UNCLE's bowling alley

Carpentry students create bug hotel for RHS Cancer-Awareness Garden

For the second consecutive year, students at Leeds College of Building are using their skills to help create a poignant RHS show garden.

The Level 1 Diploma Carpentry & Joinery students have crafted two fivefoot triangular wooden bug hotels. The structures will feature at the main entrance of a garden going on display

at RHS Tatton Flower Show 2024 (17 – 21 July).

Led by garden designer Carolyn Hardern and landscape construction

manager Jon Jarvis, the project will raise awareness about melanoma skin cancer in the construction industry. The ‘1804 Garden’ is named after the date melanoma was first referred to in the medical world.

Research shows that working outdoors in the sun leads to around five melanoma cases and one death a week in the UK. Last year, construction workers accounted for 44% of occupational skin cancer diagnoses and 42% of occupational skin cancer deaths each year – despite construction workers making up only 8% of the workforce.

Carolyn said, “Skin cancer is a critical but often overlooked safety challenge in the construction industry when so many professionals work outdoors. We’re really looking forward to showcasing

this thought-provoking garden and hope to raise more awareness about this vital issue.

“We hope to build on the success of our Tatton entry last year with an even bigger and better plot. This year is extra special as a year of anniversaries: the RHS formed 200 years ago, Tatton Show 25 years, Southport 100 years, and it will be 20 years since I did my first show garden at Tatton!”

At just over 300m2, the garden will be the largest at the Tatton Flower Show this year and promote the charities Band of Builders and Melanoma UK. The garden is shaped like an equilateral triangle, inspired by the yellow and black radiation symbol often found in hospital cancer centres.

At the heart of the garden, a circular water feature incorporates a dramatic open sphere of detached and levitating steel rings, symbolising the eradication of cancerous cells and the process of healing. Three large steel planters are set between

seating with a selection of elegant parasol trees offering partial shade from the sun’s UV rays.

The Leeds College of Building students recycled waste timber from previous projects to make the bug hotels. Wood was glued and planed to required sizes and drilled, screwed, glued, and dowel jointed together. They finished off the hotels by adding a wooden beetle shape and each will be filled with natural materials collected by pupils at Wrenbury County and Bickerton primary schools in Cheshire.

Rob Smith, head of partnerships & skills at Leeds College of Building, said, “Carolyn and Jon first approached the College given our status as the only specialist general further education construction college in the UK. We were happy to lend a hand last year, given the mental-health-in-construction theme, and we’re delighted to be involved again in 2024.

“Skin cancer disproportionately affects our industry given the nature of our work outdoors. Shockingly, construction workers diagnosed with melanoma have

the highest number of deaths than any other profession. We hope that our students’ contribution to the project will help to raise more awareness about sun safety and skin cancer prevention.”

This is the second year Leeds College of Building has teamed up with Carolyn and Jon. In 2023, their ‘Constructing Minds’ Garden won the prestigious Best in Show award and an RHS Silver Gilt Medal. Inspired by the theme of wellbeing and mental health, the garden included over 700 wooden hearts spray painted the colour of hard hats by Leeds College of Building painting and decorating apprentices. Each represented a life taken by suicide in the construction sector in just one year.

The 1804 Garden will go on to feature on a smaller scale at the Southport Flower Show in August before being donated to a worthy, permanent local home. The project will cost in the region of £30k and donations towards the build and garden relocation are now being asked via the project’s Just Giving page.

‘First Lady’ for The Great Yorkshire Show

The very first Great Yorkshire Show was in October 1837 after group of leading agriculturalists, led by the third Earl Spencer, (an ancestor of Diana, the late Princess of Wales) met at the Black Swan Hotel in York to discuss the future of the far ming industry.

A decision was made to form the Yorkshire Agricultural Society to improve and develop agriculture and organise an annual show.

The first show was held in Fulford York in 1838 and the first attendance figures were taken in 1842 when 6044 visitors were recorded.

Like many shows in the early days the Yorkshire Show did not have a permanent base, but a decision made in 1950 to build a permanent showground. The Harrogate Showground was purchased. Since then, the showground’s prestigious conference and events venue and Pavilions of Harrogate have gone

from strength to strength and events have increased dramatically. The showground is now busy 12 months of the year and a £11m redevelopment has made it the largest event space in the Northeast.

The show has been popular with the Royal Family since the beginning, privileged to welcome members of the Royal Family over the years some of whom have been patrons. The Late Queen Elizabeth was the first female and remained so for 45 years. King Charles has been Pat ron since 1998.

Today, the show is about to have a new female, leading as show director when Rachel Coates takes over from 2025. Dairy farmer Rachel will make history as the first female to take over the voluntary role of show director.

Hailing from Shipley, and a graduate of Skipton Girls High, she will take over from Charles Mills who has been in the post since 2016. The handover will take place immediately after thi s year’s event.

I am honoured to have been chosen to take the reins of the show. I have visited the show since I was 18 years old...

Rachel who studied land management and worked in the family business growing up, always keen to help her dad who was an auctioneer said: “I am honoured to have been chosen to take the reins of the show. I have visited the show since I was 18 years old. My goal is to promote the show to younger audiences, so it continues to grow and flourish for years to come.”

A member of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society Council and farms herself on the edge of Baildon Moor, Rachel has also worked in advertising, retail, education, and agriculture and is currently a director of a CIC which runs a local farmers market. Passionate about British food, Rachel is also a member of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society’s Women in Farming network and enjoys volunteering on countryside days for schoolchildren.

“Going back if I was younger, I think I would have applied for either a Nuffield Scholarship or the Worshipful

FACT FILE

Married

Children: 3

What car do you drive?

A VW Camper

Where is your favourite restaurant?

We don’t get time to eat out very often but if we do, I like Stuzzi in Leeds, they did a mean Negroni! I love pasta and good artisan beef burgers. Where is your favourite holiday destination?

I like both Italy and Northumberland Where is your favourite place in Yorkshire? Skipton

What is your favourite gadget? That must be my coffee machine. What couldn’t you live without? Green spaces

Company of Farmers Rural Leadership Course, or even both, she explained, but I am happy with where I am right now.”

On a personal level Rachel, who drives a VW Camper Van as her main mode of transport is a self-confessed coffee snob. I love coffee, but it must be proper good coffee,” she said. “I grind my own beans and haven’t unknowingly drunk instant coffee for many years!

This year’s show, the 165th runs from Tuesday 9th to Friday 12th July and tickets are available now on the website.

AW Hainsworth hires Paul Dudley as head of engineering and sustainability

AW Hainsworth, a British fabric manufacturer and vertical woollen mill based in Pudsey, has appointed Paul Dudley as its new head of engineering and sustainability. This newly created role will focus on shaping the firms engineering and sustainability strategy and fostering a culture of continuous improvement across th e organisation.

Paul joins the company with an extensive engineering, environmental, and health and safety management background, having spent the last 28 years predominantly working in the furniture industry. He previously worked for a German textile machine manufacturer in Leeds and has a vast knowledge of textile machinery and processes. Paul has successfully led sustainability projects such as IS0 14064 accreditation and implemented energy-saving initiatives in his previous roles.

Paul comments: “Joining feels like returning to my roots in textiles. The company’s rich history, manufacturing excellence, dedication to its workforce and environmental impact align perfectly w ith my passion for sustainability. I’m excited to help embed a sustainable culture in all areas of the business and to be part of a company that heavily invests in the interest of the workforce while putting environmental impact at the heart of every thing it does.”

In his new role, Paul will focus on several key sustainability initiatives to reduce the company’s carbon footprint, increase employee wellbeing, and enhance overall efficiency. His initial efforts will include benchmarking data to guide the company’s sustainability strategy and exploring energy-saving operations for various systems and processes.

Amanda McLaren, managing director commented, “We are thrilled to welcome Paul to our team. His expertise and dedication to sustainability will be invaluable as we continue integrating environmentally responsible practices into our operations and making significant investments towards evolving into a more sustainable business while maintaining our heritage of quality textiles.”

Dr Delroy Beverley appointed as chairman of Huddersfield Town Foundation

Huddersfield Town Foundation (HTF) has appointed a leading Huddersfield business executive, Dr Delroy Beverley as its new chair of Trustees. He succeeds the previous Chair, Aidan Grills.

Educated at both Oxford and Cambridge, Dr Beverley has more than 30 years of business and executive leadership across multiple sectors including social housing, health, local government, and non-executive boards.

Dr Beverley has held several high-profile non-executive board directorships that have included Ofqual and the British Library where he was also Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee. Prior to this,

he served as Deputy Chairman of the Joseph Rowntree Trust Housing Board, part of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation which researches issues surrounding social disadvantages and deprivation w ithin society.

He continues as regional chairman at the Institute of Directors for Yorkshire & Northeast, and Board Member at Roffey Park Institute which primes organisations to build

I’ve learned that paying real attention matters most; knowing that change is often what’s happening at the margins, not around the boardroom table...

EDI External Advisory Group for Hudders field Town FC.

Notably, in 2014, he was the first ever black chairman of a European business school at the University of Bradford, School of Management, and he was also the first person from within social housing to win a prestigious IoD Director of the Year award, taking home the CSR / not-for-profit award in 2015.

In 2016, the Chartered Management Institute awarded him the highest rank of Companionship status that recognises only the most exceptional accomplished business leaders. Two years later in 2018, he was named by Inside Housing as one of the UK’s top 10 outstanding senior black professionals for business leadership achievements and commitment to inspiring the next generation. In 2023, he was awarded the prestigious Doctor of Letters by the worldrenowned University of Warwick in recognition of significant contributions to the intellectual, cultural, and economic life of communities and civil society.

As the Foundation’s new Chairman, Dr Beverley’s role will include advocacy and influencing on behalf of the Foundation. Externally, he will act as a champion for the Foundation across the region, whilst working in close partnership with Hudders field Town FC.

only enhance our governance and operations. The Board and the staff team at the Foundation share a combined passion to serve our local community in the best possible way and give everyone who we meet the most promising opportunity to succeed and lead as healthy and fulfilling a life as possible. Sport and football really can change lives and with Delroy at the helm I’m more than confident that we will execute our ambitious plans for the future of t he Foundation.”

Commenting on his appointment, Dr Beverley said: that his “entire career to date has been devoted to advancing disadvantaged young people. “It is a huge privilege and honour, therefore, to be appointed as the new chairman of the Foun dation at such an important time. I know from experience that an effective chairman is a skill without parallel. Being able to influence through effective diplomacy is as important as knowing your way around the bottom line, whether it be KPIs or profit margins.

business skills for individuals, teams, and organisations globally. He also serves on the

Dr Beverley has been welcomed to the Foundation by the organisation’s Chief Executive, Siobhan Atkinson. “I am delighted that Delroy has been appointed to the role of chair. He has an incredible wealth of knowledge and experience in both business and crucially as a skilled chairman, which can

“I’ve learned that paying real attention matters most; knowi ng that change often what’s happening at the margins, not around the boardroom table. In that regard, I will ensure that we listen to what our partners, stakeholders and the community are telling us, and make sure this is reflected in ou r services. We ignore those less fortunate communities at our peril. Becoming the Chairman of the Foundation has formalised what I have alwa ys felt - that I belong here, and it can become a legacy of my life's work and a care er highpoint.”

How beauty brands remain relevant

By: Janet Milner-Walker - Founder of Bespoke Advantage

Maybelline, owned by the L’Oreal Group, was founded in 1915 in New York, despite being launched over 100 years ago, they continue to draw in a younger audience through their social media channels, particularly TikTok.

Thanks to clever promotions supported by strong online marketing activities their Sky-High Mascara captivated consumers. An interactive mascara campaign in London adorned trains and buses with colossal eyelashes, and giant mascara wands protruding from buildings and posters across London Underground, placing their brand centre stage. Through their imaginative approach they successfully garnered attention and sparked conversations.

The Estee Lauder Group is a big contender with a portfolio of heritage brands that continue to stand the test of time. Last summer, they announced an exclusive partnership with Manchester United, focusing on extending their footprint in China and APAC through the engagement of Manchester United’s fans in the region. The club has over 250 million followers in China alone, and their new partnership kicked off by shining a spotlight on Estee Lauder’s

Advanced Night Repair, their number one best selling serum. The brand recently collaborated with an Indian fashion designer, Sabyasachi Mukerjee, who is renowned for his genre- defining bridalwear, to celebrate the colours and culture of India. Each lipstick shade has been inspired by the intricate threads of Sabyasachi’s designs, and their capsule collection of ten limited edition lipsticks boasts rich, warm and intense hues that are formulated with creamy matte textures to create a luxurious feel.

Rimmel London, owned by Coty, was founded in 1834 and is one of the world’s oldest cosmetic brands in the world, boasting a fascinating history that includes Royal Warrants collected from across Europe, including from Queen Victoria herself. Recognised for their innovation, they have pioneered many cult beauty products, including the first-ever non-toxic mascara. Remaining at the cutting-edge due to their show stopping marketing strategies, they draw upon digital platforms as a springboard for engagement – from virtual makeovers to ‘backstage’ views, news, competitions, collaborations, advertisements and street style.

Paula’s Choice was founded in 1995 by beauty and skincare expert Paula Begoun who is a passionate advocate of educating consumers about clean beauty, and who draws in a customer base from Gen-Z parents to teenagers with acne concerns and baby boomers seeking to combat the signs of ageing. Continuously evolving through new product launches, they pair personalised experiences with proven results –precisely what today’s consumers are seeking out.

Whilst we may think it is challenging for heritage beauty brands to remain relevant, with the avalanche of brands launching daily it is no easier for indie beauty brands vying for the same

ABOUT JANET MILNERWALKER

Janet Milner-Walker is the founder and managing director of Bespoke Advantage, and BeautytoLife. She is an international speaker, a trusted advisor, and a freelance writer. Her expertise is built around her ability to shine a light on brands that are creating products to be talked about.

Bespoke Advantage is an international brand consultancy, supporting award-winning beauty and wellness clients including well established brands, retailers, investors, embassies, and trade bodies, in building brands across markets.

www.thebespokeadvantage.com.

customer base. Indie beauty brands have quickly risen in the marketplace and represent $30.5B in sales with a 32% dollar share of the category. How do they break through and achieve this success? Community and social responsibility are key – as a smaller, nimbler brand, they understand the importance of building a relationship with their customers and connecting based on common values.

is imperative. However, what a few heritage beauty brands do best is play the trump card of nostalgia – bringing back packaging, visual elements, or products that provide a nod to the past – to pull upon consumers heart strings.

How Scarborough Freemasons are building a solid future

The Freemasons of St. Nicholas Lodge 2586 Scarborough share their past, present and future …

A

A

Integrity,Friendship,Respect and Service. These are the core values of one of the oldest social and charitable organisations in the world and centred around fraternal friendship, The Freemasons.

The origins of Freemasonry stem back to the days of the medieval stonemasons who travelled the world using grips and signs to identify themselves as skilled builders. Modern Freemasonry in England dates back to 1717 during the Age of Enlightenment and building analogies are taken and used to teach

meeting at St Nicholas Lodge Scarborough

meeting at St Nicholas Lodge Scarborough

members how to lead better lives and put simply, to make good men better.

The values of those early Freemasons still ring true today during these uncertain times, and it is through these principles that members find, camaraderie, friendship and purpose.

The Freemasons or just Masons, meet in individual lodges.

Meeting twelve times a year the St Nicholas Lodge No. 2586 is an active

lodge in Scarborough, meeting at the Masonic Hall, St Nicholas Cliff, and was formed in 1895.

The St Nicholas Lodge membership is diverse - from active and retired

uniformed services, local businessmen, hospitality, local government, medical, skilled and unskilled professionals from different personal backgrounds.

The age range runs from 20 years to

St Nicholas Lodge ceremonial items

A gathering at St Nicholas Lodge, Scarborough

Saint Nicholas, patron saint of sailors, borne on the Scarborough's St Nicholas freemason banner.

92. There are few organisations that can boast a more diverse membership and St Nicholas Lodge is one of the most active lodges in Scarborough.

Meetings provide a foundation for friendships, many of which will last for life.

Dress is formal - black tie and white gloves, which adds to members’ se nse of respect.

The lodge meetings are typically in two parts, the first part is administrative such as charitable news, minutes of last meeting etc and the second part is ceremonial, where a candidate joins and in subsequent ceremonies advancing through the f urther degrees.

Fact File

• In 1895, Scarborough had three Craft Lodges of Freemasons, The Old Globe Lodge (No. 200) with 150 members, The Denison Lodge (No. 1248) with 80 members and the Leopold Lodge (No. 1760) with 80 members

• Several leading Brethren, and also Methodists, discussed creating a temperance lodge to cater for teetotal brethren. At a meeting of the three Scarborough Lodges, as well as Filey Royal Lodge (No. 643), it was agreed:

• “A Temperance Lodge be formed, where no intoxicating drinks should be used at 4th degree banquets or other functions of the Lodge”

• Scarborough being a maritime town, it was fitting that it should be named after the patron saint of sailors, St Nicholas

• The Masonic Hall was located on St

The ceremonies are a form of storytelling and provide a shared sense of purpose where the members of the lodge have different re sponsibilities.

The meetings are ultimately social events and afterwards dine and socialise together. Outside the lodge, St Nicholas has an active social calendar as well as participating in charitable fundraising and community events.

As well as participating in national and regional charitable campaigns, the lodge has in recent years, raised and donated money to many Scarborough charities and organisations.

These include Westway Open Arms, Andy’s Man’s Club, Scarborough Junior Swimming Club, Yorkshire Air Ambulance, Salvation Army, Samaritans, Scarborough Hospital, the Royal British Legion, Eastfield Karate Club, Saint Catherine’s Hospice, Yorkshire Air Ambulance, Samaritans, Salvation Army, Scouts groups, Scarborough Hospital, First Light Trust and the Royal British Legion.

Nicholas Cliff, which was the site of the medieval Church of St Nicholas (where the Grand Hotel is now situated)

• The St Nicholas Lodge (No. 2586) was consecrated with full masonic ritual in December 1896 by the Marquess of Zetland, the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master of Yorkshire, North and East Ridings

• The first Worshipful Master of the new Lodge was Bro. George William Tindall, a respected name in Scarborough. He was a businessman who owned an outfitters and furnishers, on the corner of Tindall Street and at 132 Victoria Road

• The founding Worshipful Master Jewel, presented by W. Bro Tindall, has been presented to each incoming Worshipful Master at lodge installations on the first Wednesday in December.

The Master of St Nicholas Lodge, Worshipful Brother Roger Kaye said: “Joining St Nicholas Lodge was one of the best things I have ever done. I wanted to give something back to society and help.

“Through our charitable structure we can help many organisations and it has given me structure and purpose. I wish I had joined many years earlier.”

After 300 years, Freemasonry has adapted and moved with the times, but its values and guiding principles have remained constant.

Today is still confident and looking to make good men better.

To see the range of activities, www.stnicholasmasoniclodgesca rborough.org.uk

Stunning new studio with all the keys to success

Images: Daniel Abell and David Ruston

An independent, residential recording and music production studio in Scarborough is celebrating its first year of success

The state-of-the-art recording and production studio includes client accommodation as well as a spacious, bespoke Live Room, Control Room, Vocal/Isolation Booths and Green Room.

Beckview Studios is owned and managed by husband-and-wife duo Chris and Kristina Jones.

Kristina said: “We feel we are well on the way to achieving our aim of being the one-stop hub for music creators, musicians, and bands seeking to

record and produce their music regionally and nationally.

“Thanks to our unique focus on tracking bands together in one space, we’ve welcomed talent here at Beckview, from experienced recording artists and voiceover clients to new names who could be stars of the future.”

The purpose-built studios are located inside the former Scalby Parish Council chambers, an impressive 1930s building set within the picturesque village on the outskirts of Scarborough town.

Designed by Howard Turner (Studio

Beckview Studios with Chris & Kristina Jones

Wizard), the studios are a stunning addition to Scarborough’s thriving creative community.

Co-founder and owner Chris said: “We’ve created a residential studio, attracting artists from the area and from further afield, and we feel we are now a destination studio.

“Feedback from our clients indicates that we’re providing a recording environment that rivals city-based locations, which is fantastic to hear.”

Highlights of the first year include the results from an independent soundproofing survey – it demonstrated the measures taken to create a facility,

We facilitate a voiceover recording for local and regional actors, and offer performance opportunities for bands, musicians, and artists...

which can cater for all types of sound recordings within a village environment, far exceeded initial expectations.

Chris, who has more than 20 years’ experience in live and recorded sound, said: “Other highlights include meeting new people helping them achieve their goals, from collaborating with local

music organisations and festivals including Headlands Festival, and Sound of Scarborough to working with businesses such the Woodsmith Achieve Programme, NHS Trusts, Spa Properties, Scarborough College, and local theatre and audio production services, to working with international brands such as the New York Times for voiceover and podcast production.

“We facilitate a voiceover recording for local and regional actors, and offer performance opportunities for bands, musicians, and artists.

Studio manager Kristina said: “As we start our second year, we

THE YORKSHIRE COAST are planning new and exciting additions to Beckview.

“These include our Voicereel Clinic on 18th June 2024 for actors and voiceover artists, fed up of travelling to London to access the same quality products. We are working alongside Scarborough performer Shannon Rewcroft who will provide consultation and scripts for clients as well as act as coach on the day.

“And for bands and musicians, we have Live Lounges planned to take place on June 27 and 28 as part of the Scarborough Fringe Festival.

“These exciting events include Phil Hooley (Americana), Sweet Berry Elixir and Whitby band Sunbeam.

“We are also hoping to host summer schools for those wishing to learn more about music production and gaining experience in the studio.

“We have just partnered with the UK Christian Music Chart organisation ‘A Step FWD’, something which we are very excited about bringing and developing along the coast.”.

A new Spirit of Yorkshire is about to soar

Open Day to unveil new release of Filey Bay single malt

The team at Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery is preparing for the stunning 2024 edition of its Filey Bay Yorkshire Day Special Release sing le malt whisky.

Choosing the c asks each year for the annual release is a real labour of love for Whisky Dire ctor Joe Clark.

He spends whole days in the warehouse, sampling casks, trying out combinations and carefully marrying flavour profiles,

until he’s fou nd the perfect combination.

“Our distillery style is light and fruity," he said.

"Ex-bourbon casks are integral to this and bring creamy, vanilla notes to the

with the producers

spirit. When we then marry this with whisky matured in another, more unusual cask type, we get exciting and distin ctive flavours.

"That’s what makes our Yorkshire Day whisky releases such a unique series.”

The Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery’s annual open day in Hunmanby, near Filey, North Yorkshire, will be held between noon and 6.30pm on Satu rday July 27.

As the name suggests, Filey Bay Yorkshire Day is announced to the public each year on August 1, released as close as possib le to August 1.

There will be tasting sessions, masterclasses, distillery tours, conversations with local producers and people who are part of the field-to-bottle process that makes Spirit of Yo rkshire unique.

“Filey Bay Yorkshire Day is a really special ‘Special Release’ for us," said Joe.

"It was the first ever Special Release we bottled, in summer 2020 in the middle of the lockdowns, and it

Masterclass

Open day plans

showcased the scope of what was maturing in our warehouse - and the scale of what would be coming in the future."

That first Yorkshire Day release set the tone for the annually-released series: a marriage of light and fruity ex-Bourbon matured whisky, with another more unu sual cask type.

Exclusive

The distillery talks about being proudly made in Yorkshire. “It’s our barley, our water, our still s, our spirit.

“Every grain of malt that goes into the whisky is grown by us here on the farm in Hunmanby, and we’re farming it rege neratively too.

"All the water comes through the chalk from a source under the farm.

In fact, that’s all part of the reason why the distillery was started; we love this land and this area.”

A ‘distillery exclusive,’ Filey Bay Yorkshire Day 202 4 will only be available in the distillery shop, with a select few from the distillery website too. Filey Bay Yorkshire Day Special Releases are distillery exclusives, meaning it's only available in our shop. Usually a marriage of around four different cask types (using some of the oldest whisky in the warehouse).

“We want people to visit the distillery to get hold of the bottle, to tour around the stills, see how it’s made, enjoy the homemade food at our Pot Still Coffee Shop, and also to spend time in this beautiful part of the world, where the rolling wolds run into the cliffs," said Joe.

"It's often overlooked in favour of the Dales and Moors … and it’s jus t as stunning.”

What are the casks which are making up this year's Filey Bay Yorkshire Day? "You’ll have to wait to find out!" said Joe.

It's usually a marriage of around four different cask types, using some of the oldest whisky in the warehouse.

MD and co-founder David Thompson said: “Throughout the open day, you can see the direct drilling farm machinery that is changing the way we grow the barley for our whisky - and be among the first to sample Filey Bay Yorkshire Day 2024 Special Release singl e malt whisky.”

Time for a swift one

By: Graham Courtney - Motoring Correspondent

Let’s be honest here, when it comes to looking for a car, do you think of the name Suzuki? It’s probably very different if you’re considering a new motorcycle, but when it comes to cars it’s unlikely that most people could name models in the Suzuki range.

In last year’s August edition of TopicUK we featured one of their most popular cars…the Suzuki Vitara SUV… so we thought we’d look at what is probably their next most recognisable model… the Suzuki Swift.

And it’s highly topical because a new model has just arrived at Suzuki showrooms.

With prices starting at £18,699 the Swift is already off to a good start because it’s

not only competitively priced, it’s also well equipped. If you are in the market for a small hatchback, don’t just look at the price; you need to compare like for like and construct a list of what each car comes with in terms of kit.

You’d never call it a handsome car…you decide…but it’s probably a car that will look better in ce rtain colours.

Under the bonnet there’s a new 1.2 litre 3-cylinder engine which has some mild hybrid technology to help with economy. It lends a hand when setting off from standstill. The engine develops what looks like a rather measly 81bhp. However, this is a small, light car so it keeps up with the pace very nicely. 0-60mph is a shade over 12 seconds with a maximum speed of 103mph, but to be fair to the Swift, it feels livelier

than those figures suggest because the engine is a willing performer and the car is good fun to drive. There’s loads pf feedback through the steering wheel, something which is vanishing rapidly from a lot of modern cars. Go steadily and Suzuki reckon you’ll manage 64.2mpg. Reliability was good in the previous model…we’d expect more of the same from this new version.

You can opt for manual or CVT gearbox (we’d go for the 5-speed manual). The ride is fairly firm at town speeds, but once you get moving on the quicker stuff, it settles nicely.

You can even go for an all-wheel drive Swift called ALLGRIP. Okay it gives those of you who live out in the sticks an option which may appeal, but it lifts the price to over £21k and saps performance and

economy. You also need to go for a higher level trim.

Hop inside the new Suzuki Swift and you’ll find a neat mix of colours and materials. It looks and feels good and proves that a low-ish purchase price doesn’t mean you need to abandon any sort of build quality. There’s ample room for four adults. A family and some holiday clobber will be fine.

Impressive

So what about the sort of goodies which comes as standard on the latest Suzuki Swift? Two trim levels are available… Motion and Ultra.

The entry level Motion trim comes with rear parking sensors, rear view camera, heated front seats, adaptive cruise control, powered windows all round, 9-inch infotainment screen,

DAB radio, sat nav, LED headlights, air con, wireless smartphone link and an impressive range of safety gear.

Ultra trim adds things like electric folding exterior mirrors, smarter alloys, automatic climate control and rear heating vents but we’d save the additional £1000 outlay and stick with Motion trim…you get all of the essentials.

So, what of the new Suzuki Swift? As we said at the start, Suzuki isn’t a name which immediately springs to mind when you’re hunting for a new car. Pity, because the Swift is good to drive, sensibly priced and very well equipped.

Put it this way, if you are fancying a small car which’ll be ideal in the city and can happily cope with longer, quicker journeys, make sure the latest Suzuki Swift is on your list of test drive. You might be pleasantly surpr ised. We were.

If comfort is a priority, you’ll love the GLE because it comes with adaptive dampers as standard. The ride is cushy...

It never rains,but it pours

By: Graham Courtney - Motoring Correspondent

Mercedes GLE 400e plug-in hybrid enters the fray. Motoring correspondent Graham Courtney tests the Mercedes GLE.

When you’re British, you are obliged to indulge in long conversations about the weather.

I don’t know where you live, but in my neck of the woods there seems to have been a mixture of light drizzle and heavy rain every day since last summer. I’m developing webbed feet. Thankfully we’ve had a couple of sunny days lately. Phew.

There can be few better ways to shrug off the bad weather than have a chunky SUV and, when you throw the likes

of a BMW X5, Range Rover Sport and Porsche Cayenne into the mix alongside the Mercedes GLE, you have a choice of some very desirable machinery.

And the latest GLE gives you another option….the latest version is the 400e plug-in hybrid which, if you have a round journey commute in the region of 60 miles, could see you waft along in silence without using a drop of petrol.

Under the bonnet there’s a 2.0 litre petrol engine. Combine that with the battery powered motor and you end

up with a power output of 383bhp which is healthy, although you need plenty of oomph because the GLE plus its hefty battery, tip the scales at over 2.6 tonnes. Everything goes to the all-wheel drive system via a 9-speed auto ‘box and gives you a 0-60 time of 6.1 seconds and a top speed of 130mph which, let’s face it, is quick and fast enough.

If you need to travel further but want to keep using battery power, the advantage of the GLE 400e is that you can use a rapid charger (up to

60 kW) to top-up the battery. A charge from 10-80 per cent only takes 20 minutes.

If comfort is a priority, you’ll love the GLE because it comes with adaptive dampers as standard. The ride is cushy.

£89,350 is the start price for the 400e in AMG Line Premium Plus. You get a really good list of standard kit which includes heated and powered front seats, 360-degree camera, terrific LED headlights, AMG body-styling kit, running boards, auto climate control, sat nav, DAB radio, sunroof and a powered tailgate. It’s also loaded-down with a stack of safety kit and driver assistance gadgets.

Special word of praise for the interior designers. The dashboard, split info screens and even the air vents, look really good. The seats are super-comfy.

The driving experience is one of relaxed elegance. If you want to fling your car along twisting lanes or Swiss mountain passes, then something like the Porsche Cayenne would be a good idea. However, for most of the real world who want to drive steadily and arrive unflustered after a 7 hour journey, the Mercedes GLE 400e will be a terrific choice. If you are lucky enough to be able to use it as a day to day runabout, it should also be extremely economical. The hybrid set-up also makes for the GLE 400e to be a sensible choice for c ompany drivers.

With a starting price over £80k, the Mercedes GLE in 400e plugin hybrid guise, ain’t cheap. But neither is the competition. And it lo oks good too.

If you want a distinctive, economical, solid and wellequipped big SUV, the Mercedes GLE 400e is a great place to start.

And finish.

Children’s ballet Hansel & Gretel to première in Leeds

Leeds Stanley & Audrey Burton Theatre 15-22 February 2025

Northern Ballet have announced a new addition to their awardwinning series of ballets for children, Hansel & Gretel. The ballet will première next year at the Stanley & Audrey Burton Theatre in Leeds from 15-22 February before embarking on a national tour.

In an environmental reimagining of the classic Brothers Grimm fairy tale, Hansel and Gretel take a trip into the forest, unaware of the damage they leave behind. When they get lost, the siblings meet a host of spirited friends who teach them how we can all better look after the planet - and have some fun along the way!

The 40-minute ballet is designed for children aged three plus and their families to experience live dance, music and theatre together. There are also relaxed, and audio described performances available, ensuring the production remains accessible for as many people as possible.

Northern Ballet have been touring their award-winning ballets for children across the UK for over a decade. Their other ballets include the hugely successful Three Little Pigs, Elves & the Shoemaker, Ugly Duckling and Goldilocks & the Three Bears, some having been shown in cinemas across the UK and all of which were adapted for TV by CBeebies.

Hansel & Gretel will be choreographed by Northern Ballet Company Dancers George Liang and Harris Beattie. The two have starred in various named roles in many of Northern Ballet’s recent productions and have choreographed for the Company previously in Northern Ballet’s Sketches, a programme that showcases new choreographic talent.

The ballet will be performed to live music which will be composed by Colin Scott, Northern Ballet’s Company Pianist. Designing sets and costumes is Ali Allen. To coincide with the ballet’s environmental message, most of the materials for sets and costumes are going to be sustainably created with reused materials.

Northern Ballet will also be organising a Family fun day themed around Hansel & Gretel, where children aged five to seven will be able to take part in a day of dancing, crafting, and learning, followed by a chance to watch the new children’s ballet.

Tickets are on sale now,with dates for the forthcoming tour to be announced.For more information and details on how to book, please visit northernballet.com/theatre/ hansel-and-gretel

GREEK STREET TERRACE

An elegant backdrop for drinks and dining, here you’ll enjoy classic and contemporary cocktails, and a carefully-curated seasonal menu of fresh, flavourful dishes.