Yorkshire Businesswoman by Yorkshire BusinessWoman & TopicUK

SUPPORTING FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS ACROSS THE REGION

Nº5 Bi-Monthly

A TopicUK Publication

September 2021

Idyllic childhood leads to perfect career #WECAN

WOMEN EMPOWERED THROUGH COACHING

DANCING ON BROADWAY AND ALL THINGS SPOOKY Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

BRING YOUR CHRISTMAS TO OUR PARTY Sign up as a member for only £20 a month with free* access to all our events or join us for christmas only!

3rd December from noon onwards

https://yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk/signup or for more information call Gill on 07711 539047 Email hello@yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk Leeds events in partnership with Dakota Hotel Leeds *Some events may incur a small charge

EditorsNotes Welcome to the fifth edition of Yorkshire Businesswoman magazine. I can’t believe we are publishing edition five already, heading towards a year since we first launched. Our last edition, the first in print, flew off the shelves with all stock going in just a few days and so far, we’ve received lots of lovely positive feedback.

Group Editor Gill Laidler Design Rob Blackwell Business Executive Mandy Taylor Official Photographers Roth Read Photography

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our lovely Yorkshire Businesswoman members too, we had a fabulous launch event on 2 July and are finalising plans for our second members only event on 10 September at Dakota Leeds. Our guest speaker is the lovely Nicky Pattinson and we also have Kathryn Winters who is a reiki, foot chakra and psychic reading expert. Member Michele Leathley will be exhibiting her Energy Healing services, answering any questions and has kindly donated a gift box for our prize draw. Make sure you don’t miss out and if you are not a member, what are you waiting for, it’s just £20 a month with full details on the website. Sign up now at: https://www. yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk I would like to also welcome our new ambassador Liz Green, who shares with us her career and details of her role at BBC Radio Leeds and who joins Amanda Owen, Christine Talbot and Gaynor Faye, (who we feature on our cover this edition) as great ambassadors for Yorkshire Businesswoman. You too could

Contents & Comments

by group editor Gill Laidler

be an ambassador. All you need to do is introduce new members or bring them as guests to one of our events, and when you have signed 6 new members your own membership will be free for 12 months. Couldn’t be simpler.

Mature model Rachel Peru who has shared with us details of her forthcoming Silver and Sassy fashion event and I cannot wait, Mandy and I have our tickets and have reserved our places.

Member Jodie Hill and her pet pooches, visited The Coniston Estate near Skipton and shares with readers details of her luxury spa break at this super pet friendly venue and Yorkshire Businesswoman editor Gill Laidler caught up with former Changing Rooms designer Linda Barker who told us about her new range as the programme makes a return to our screens this autumn.

If you haven’t yet secured your place for our Christmas party on 3 December, let me know quickly as places are going fast, we are planning a fantastic party and will be joined by perfumery Penhaligans.

Gill x

You can email us at hello@yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk or call us on 07711 539047 Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

To Partner Yorkshirebusinesswoman Tel: 07711 539047

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From Instagram to bricks and mortar

Idyllic childhood leads to perfect career

#WECAN - women empowered through coaching Supporting Yorkshire businesswomen

Luxury break that’s super pet friendly Yorkshire Businesswoman are delighted that professional photographers Lincoln Roth and Perrin Read who specialise in portrait photography are our partners for this exciting new magazine. Roth Read Photography work closely with both private and commercial clients because client’s stories inspire them to capture images which are creative, authentic, and invoke emotion. It is the attention to detail which adds value to a personal legacy or business brand. Their aim is to provide you, our readers, with the best images and experience.

Cover : Gaynor Faye

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Printed By: Charlesworth Press Wakefield The views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those held by the publishers and therefore, no responsibility can be held by the publisher for misinterpretation. Reproduction of this magazine without the express permission of the publisher is prohibited. Whilst every care is taken in the production of this magazine, the publisher/editor and staff cannot accept any responsibility for errors in articles, advertisements or programme schedules. To subscribe to this magazine contact 07711 539047 or email editor@yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk. Published by Ghost Publishing who decline all responsibility for advice given.

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How travelling the world became a career The views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those held by theapublishers and therefore, no and NLP mindset As certified business responsibility can be held by the coach for coaches and service-based publisher for misinterpretation. businesswomen, Amywithout Crumpton, Reproduction of this magazine founder of Socialof the Cactus has learned a the express permission publisher is prohibited. Whilst every care is taken thing or two about becoming a money in the production of this magazine, magnet, creating a high-vibe work the publisher/editor and and staff cannot environment attracting dream accept any responsibility for errors in clients on a daily basis... articles, advertisements or programme schedules. To subscribe to this magazine contact 07711 539047 or email hello@ yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk Published by Ghost Publishing Limited.

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65 Dancing on Broadway and all things spooky Liz Green is a broadcaster and journalist for BBC Radio Leeds, broadcasting on weekend afternoons, celebrating our county and telling its stories. There is an element of phone in, great Yorkshire guests and random dancing. It’s a West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire and South Yorkshire and North Derbyshire, Humberside occasionally, regional show. Prior to this, Liz presented Breakfast on BBC radio Leeds for five years. Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

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It’s been quite a year for Misty Green Misty Green has had quite a year. Last March the 30-year-old gave birth to her fourth child, then launched a new business amid a global pandemic. But despite the challenges, Misty’s Patisserie has been a runaway success.

I’ve learnt that life is way too short and you really must do what makes you happy. “A lot of people said I would not be successful through the pandemic due to the challenges it would throw up, and that I was crazy to think about switching careers. But all we have needed to do is work hard, adapt and to operate within the guidelines the best we can. Now my plans and goals are far-reaching. I want to see Misty’s Patisserie grow further. I’d love to be able to buy a shop and produce our wonderful products for customers to see and buy in person. And I would love to see delivery vehicles delivering our named products to other food establishments and become a brand people know and love. “To anyone else starting out I would say it takes a lot of effort, hard work and of course you have to have self-belief. There can be highs and lows but be confident and great things will follow.

And now things have become even sweeter thanks to a Plusnet That’ll Do star. Misty said: “It’s been an amazing year and a half. The only time I really get to reflect on it is when I am waiting for the apple pies and meringues to cool. Running a business through a pandemic has been challenging yet, at the same time, inspiring.

“I’ve learnt that life is way too short - you really must do what makes you happy...”

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Now the firm are delighted to have received the PlusNet award.” We feel super positive that Misty’s Patisserie can go further in the future,” Misty added. “Receiving this award has had an amazing impact on our small family business and we are looking at new orders, customers and new challenges daily.”

New lawyers join Wilkinson Woodward West Yorkshire law firm Wilkinson Woodward has announced a series of appointments to its expanding legal practice. Property specialist Sophia Liu and family law solicitor Dawn Keane have joined the firm’s Halifax office while Kim Noble, who specialises in Children and Care Proceedings will be based at their office in central Huddersfield.

Meanwhile, residential conveyancer Scott Forster-Darwin has taken up an appointment at Wilkinson Woodward’s office in Brighouse. At the same time Gillian Rothwell, who joined the firm as a legal secretary in 2007, is set to qualify as a licenced conveyancer and has also taken on her own

caseload of residential property work. The latest appointments will bolster Wilkinson Woodward’s existing team of over thirty lawyers and seventy support staff who collectively handle legal matters ranging from family law and mediation to wills, probate, employment law, commercial law, personal injury,

crime, notary and conveyancing. The latest appointments reflect the firm’s ongoing plans to expand in Calderdale in Kirklees. Managing director Maureen Cawthorn said, “Wilkinson Woodward has been serving the communities of Calderdale and Kirklees since 1886; 135 years on we continue to evolve and we are delighted to welcome these young and dynamic lawyers to our established team of legal professionals.”

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Move to home working sees sales at cards and gifts retailer double Pontefract-based Love Layla has seen sales of pads and pens soar as home workers equip their desks.

“People like to make their homework stations a bit more fun and have scope to buy notepads and pens that are a bit ruder than they’d have in a traditional office. It’s a trend that has helped us through the pandemic, and we are now seeing stationery sales match our cards. “We are always looking to innovate and bring something new to our customers, and that’s why we’ve invested in the equipment to allow us to personalise a wide range of products. We believe it will be the largest range of personalised products on the market.” Love Layla’s best-selling notebooks include ‘allergic to idiots’ and ‘I work hard so my dog can have a better life’ covers. The most popular pens are ‘always write’ and ‘I don’t hug’.

Stationery sales will top £1m in 2021 with notebooks, pens and personalised mugs proving best sellers. The company aims to capitalise on the trend by launching personalised stationery in the Autumn. The success of the stationery range has come despite issues sourcing some products from China as global transport difficulties have caused delays and driven up shipping costs. Commenting on the results, Stacey Dennis, founder of Love Layla, said:

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We are always looking to innovate and bring something new to our customers, and that’s why we’ve invested in the equipment to allow us to personalise a wide range of products...

Stacey Dennis, who runs Love Layla, started her business with £30 cash by printing her designs at home after being made redundant as a graphic designer - and now has a multi-million-pound business, a production warehouse, and a franchise in Australia. Fans of the brand - named after Stacey’s eight-year-old daughter Layla - include Dragon’s Den entrepreneur Theo Paphitis, former glamour model Katie Price, Made in Chelsea star Georgia Toffolo and Geordie Shore stars Vicky Pattison and Abbie Holborn.

support and support others in a safe community. I’ve learnt new skills and gained a different outlook through their webinars to help me get in a positive place to progress forward in my life.”

Savvy investing gives donation to charity A charity for women with cancer has received a £1,040 donation following savvy investment decisions that were powered by a super algorithm.

David Woodward of Woodward Financials used his innovative algorithm to invest £1,000 of his own money to get the ball rolling. His algorithm made 32 profitable trading opportunities which netted over 200%, with zero losses. The profits of £1,040 we re promptly delivered to David’s desired charity, Victoria’s Promise.

build up their empowerment and resilience. Sarah Willcox, says “Victoria’s Promise and their App have helped me get through one of the hardest journeys of my life. The app has given me the opportunity to meet ladies in a similar position, seek

David has been working on his profitable in-house algorithm for over 5 years which can be used to identify profitable opportunities in trading markets such as FX and long-term indices including FTSE 100 and Dow Jones. The algorithm employs complex rules to be used alongside trading applications which can offer keen insights to guide solid investments. As Woodward Financials Ltd is regulated, they cannot trade FX for their clients. Instead, they have developed this incredible resource for clients to find excellent investments for a nominal, 1.25% fee. David said: “The more investors that become clients of Woodward Financials, the more we’ll be able to help charities like Victoria’s Promise. It’s an excellent way for clients to get involved by nominating their own favourite charities when they work with us.”

Victoria’s Promise is a non-profit charitable organisation that supports young women who are facing a cancer diagnosis. The charity aims to instil a sense of empowerment and fortitude in these women. This is achieved by providing a nurturing community of like-minded individuals, as well as the tools required to Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

From Instagram to bricks and mortar You may recall in our last edition, we featured two ladies from Wild & Wood, who make and sell beautiful bath products. We are now delighted that just a year and a half after founders Hollie Sharpin and Lorna Hirst launched, they have opened their first ever physical shop in Featherstone, Wakefield.

Wild & Wood wanted to offer customers an immersive shopping experience and that they have done. Those who step through the doors are met with instant tranquility as rainforest sounds drift lightly through the air whilst relaxing aromas circulate. With the ‘shop local’ movement gaining more and more momentum, shoppers are increasingly inclined to want to get to know the people behind the brands

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that they purchase from, which is why this was the perfect time for Wild & Wood to open their first shop. With a huge Instagram following of 58.2k, including famous figures such as Stacey Solomon, Hollie and Lorna have always strived to show their followers behind the scenes content.

They’ve used social media to get to know their followers and to show them their own morals and motives, in the hope that customers will know that when purchasing from Wild & Wood, they’re shopping with a brand that they can trust. Because of this close-knit web of followers that they have created, the support for the new shop has been incredible.

The strangest thing for us is that people come in, they already know our names, they know our story and they know our family...

Lorna added, “The strangest thing for us is that people come in, they already know our names, they know our story and they know our family. And that’s what we used our social media to do, to create a brand that is an extension of our family. We really get a sense of community from our followers so why wouldn’t we want to take that online community and give it a physical meeting space.” Here in the Yorkshire Businesswoman office we received a hamper full of their beautiful products so can certainly recommend a visit to the shop. Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

Finance for Enterprise helps driven entrepreneur shift gear A Barnsley-based car body shop specialist has seen business demand speed up dramatically since opening its garage doors last July after receiving a financial boost from alternative lending provider Finance for Enterprise.

Taylor’s Bodyshop called on support from Finance For Enterprise to help the business meet the setup costs, purchasing vital equipment, including high quality paint systems and booths to meet the quality service customers expect. With a solid business plan in place, the owner, Hayley Taylor-Owen, successfully secured a £10,000 Start

Up Loan, giving her car restoration company the green light to get going. Hayley was always destined for a career working with cars. From an early age, she dreamed of becoming a professional rally driver and would spend hours imagining what it would be like to drift into a successful and exhilarating career. Upon reaching

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her teens, Hayley put the brakes on her racing aspirations after seeing the process of a damaged racing car being restored to its pristine condition. Raring to go, Hayley decided to study car repairs at her local college. Once she graduated, her first role as a body repair specialist helped build her experience and hands-on knowhow. Seven years later and Hayley knew the drill, but she wanted to achieve more. Being placed on furlough last summer pushed Hayley to consider shifting gear and exploring the possibility of launching her own business. After spotting the perfect premises, only one thing was stalling her dreams: securing the funds needed to kit out the new shop. Working alongside experienced investment manager Gillian Pickard, the business plan for Taylor’s Bodyshop

began to take shape. With a comprehensive strategy in place, Hayley secured a tailor-made start-up loan to begin leasing new premises in Wombwell, purchase essential tools and equipment and accelerate the start-up process.

Career A year into her entrepreneurial journey and Hayley has refused to take her foot off the gas. Taylor’s Bodyshop has a growing reputation in the area for the owners above and beyond attitude and polished customer service. With continued growth, an additional employee is just around the corner to help Hayley manage demand, which is racing away. Hayley said: “I’ve always wanted to build a career around cars, and when I was furloughed from a job that I loved it helped to plant the seeds for building and running my own business. Creating a car body shop from scratch meant that I needed to spend a significant amount of money on equipment, and I knew that I would need some financial assistance. “After a Google search, I discovered Finance for Enterprise and decided to reach out for advice. I was put in touch with Gillian, who explained my options. She helped me to understand exactly how much money I needed to enable me to invest in the business. “Since securing support from Finance For Enterprise, my business has seen strong growth, even during a time of increased economic uncertainty, and although I wasn’t sure how the lockdowns would impact my business, I’ve never looked back.”

Gillian Pickard, Investment Manager, Finance For Enterprise said: “Opening a business during the middle of a pandemic would have been a challenge for even the most seasoned entrepreneurs, but it was clear that Hayley had a thorough understanding of her industry, and following our initial discussions, she presented a well thought-out and detailed business plan, explaining the importance of the specialist equipment needed to help her build her dream business.

Celebrates As a new entrepreneur, Hayley was eligible to access a Start Up Loan, which is aimed at helping new business owners to access the funds needed to realise their business

plans. With funding in place, Hayley has enjoyed a terrific first year in business, and as her company celebrates its first anniversary, I think she can look back at the way she has successfully navigated her way through the challenges posed by Covid-19 with pride.” Finance For Enterprise is a delivery partner of Start Up Loans UK, an initiative backed by the British Business Bank designed to help new entrepreneurs secure lending. Since the Start Up Loans scheme was launched in 2012, the programme has helped more than 75,000 entrepreneurs to realise their business ambitions. In Yorkshire and the Humber, Start Up Loans UK has provided nearly £55 million to over 6,300 new businesses.

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Idyllic childhood leads to perfect career

Yorkshire actress, writer and Yorkshire Businesswoman Ambassador Gaynor Faye has been incredibly busy since leaving her role as Megan Macey in Emmerdale almost two years ago, a role she played for seven years. Yorkshire Businesswoman editor Gill Laidler managed to catch up with Gaynor during her busy schedule rehearsing for her latest role as Kellie Bryce in the Peter James novel adapted for theatre, Looking Good Dead, alongside EastEnders actor Adam Woodyatt.

Pleased to be able to get back into the theatre now that the restrictions of the pandemic are lifting, Gaynor was looking forward to her opening night at The Curve in Leicester on 1st July. This is the start of a major UK tour which includes Gaynor’s hometown of Leeds, coming to The Grand Theatre on 6 – 11 September. Born in Leeds, Gaynor began acting at a very young age. “I think I was about nine years old when, during the school holidays, Mum (writer Kay Mellor) would write little plays for me, my sister and our

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friends to rehearse in our garden,” she explained, “then when we were word perfect, we would put on a show for the neighbours! I loved to draw, so I would design invitations and put them through letterboxes informing the neighbours the date and time of the show and to bring a chair. They paid their entry fee in a collection bucket which we used to pay for trips to Alton Towers at the end of the holidays.” It was whilst at high school that Gaynor really found her love of drama. “One of my first roles was playing the lead role of Dorothy in Gregory’s Girl a 1981 Scottish coming of age

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romantic comedy. It was the perfect role for me as both my character and I had a love of football. I had caught the drama bug and began writing my own little plays, filming them with the family camcorder. Both my mum and her mum were both dramatists, so I think it was just in my genes,” she explained. “I was always pretending to be someone else, telling stories and creating make belief, I’ve no idea why as I had a wonderful life.” Gaynor had an idyllic childhood. Her mum, playwright Kay Mellor was initially a stay at home mum before returning to University to pursue her dream of writing and her dad was a mechanic, before retraining himself in social care. Gaynor describes her dad as the family rock. “He is my hero, he has supported us all in our careers, we are all lucky as a family to be doing the jobs we love,” Gaynor explained. Even though Gaynor and her mum and sister (who is a television producer) are often recognised in their hometown of Leeds, they are all grounded and love to say hello when approached.

working alongside some great Coronation Street Icons such as Julie Goodyear, Barbara Knox, Eileen Derbyshire and William Roache,” she continued. More recently Gaynor has appeared in the BBC drama The Syndicate and on stage in the adaptation of the popular TV series written by Kay Mellor, Band of Gold. Straying away from acting briefly in 2006, Gaynor, who has two children with her long-term partner Mark, was invited to appear on the inaugural show of Dancing on Ice, partnering with the now show creative director Daniel Whiston, going on to be the show’s first winner. So, if she hadn’t caught the acting bug, what career would Gaynor have followed? “I think I would have been a vet. I really love animals,” she told us, “and as a child would rescue any I could. I think my role in The Chase was perfect for me combining my acting with being an on-screen vet!” But Gaynor’s favourite role was playing Lauren in Fat Friends. “I have been so lucky to have played many great characters, but I think Lauren was my favourite, she was funny and loving and just wanted to meet the man of her dreams, eventually meeting a vicar!

Starring in a number of roles including Playing The Field, Fat Friends, Between The Sheets, Stan the Man and the Chase, Gaynor co-wrote with her mother for the BBC, as well as appearing in the stage version of Calendar Girls “I’ve always loved television, but and a panellist on Loose Women recently I have done quite a bit of and guest presenter on Lorraine, theatre and feel privileged that I am her most famous role must be as able to have both. Judy Mallett in Coronation Street between 1995 and 1999. “I loved Gaynor is currently appearing playing Judy Mallett, I was given in Looking Good Dead which will some great storylines and feel I be at The Grand Theatre from was there during the golden years, 6 to 11 September.

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Exercise should be included as a vital part of cancer recovery & rehabilitation Advice from our regular health and wellbeing coach, Adam Batchelor!

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Recovery from cancer is never just physical – it’s as much mental as anything. Taking that first step back into exercise whether it be in a gym or home training set up can be daunting - not knowing what to do for the best and doubting your own ability. Click or copy the link to see a video of all the exercises. https://youtu.be/1i8P7HxMObE Obviously, you need to liaise with your consultant to get the green light to exercise again but once you’ve done that read on for a good place to start! Just be aware that different cancer types will affect the exercises you can do. Mandy Taylor is known to many - not least for her work with this very publication. I have known Mandy for many years and thought she would make a great ‘example’ of post cancer health and fitness. ‘Little did I realise when I first met fitness coach Adam Batchelor over 20 years ago at a gym in Huddersfield that fast forward to this summer, we would be reunited in a gym on behalf of Yorkshire Businesswoman, albeit as a consequence of cancer for the third time. For some bizarre reason, cancer seems to enjoy nestling in my body, twice in my left breast and as of April this year - in the form of a stage 4, rare cancer called a Sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma. Having had a course of chemotherapy and many weeks of radiotherapy to my head and neck, my usually fit and active

body had taken a beating not to mention my mental wellbeing and body confidence. I was keen to explore how Adam could help me with not only my fitness but also my diet and nutrition’. Why exercise is important for cancer recovery? Exercise is an important part of a cancer treatment and recovery plan. An ever-growing amount of research shows that regular exercise can greatly improve physical and mental health during every phase of treatment. Even if you were not active before your cancer diagnosis - a well-designed program that’s designed to meet your needs and ability can get you moving safely and effectively. Exercise during and after treatment can help to; •

Reduce the risk of depression and anxiety

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Improve your balance and coordination to reduce injury risk

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Prevent muscle loss and a reduction in bone density

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Improve sleep patterns

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• • •

•

Improve survival rates Reduce risk of developing other cancers P re v e n t on se t o f o t h e r diseases such diabetes and heart disease Improve quality of life!!

Where to start? Your exercise program should cover 3 main components: 1. Flexibility - to help you recover from any lymph node Surgery, muscle tightness post breast augmentation or if a Lat (back) muscle has been used for reconstruction purposes and to help you move freer and easier if you’ve had periods of inactivity 2. Strength - lean muscle mass supports movement, bone density, and metabolic functions 3. Aerobic capacity - heart and lung function vital for health and fitness and reducing risk of serious diseases

Here’s a sample of 6 exercises covering all the bases! 1.

Foot to hand with twist - a great total body mobility/ flexibility drill. Will help loosen tight back and hips 2. Downward dog active stretch - great for stretching through your back and hamstrings whilst keeping your core muscles working 3. Dumbbell push press - can be performed with tins of Beans or a resistance band. A great total body strength exercise 4. Cable squat to row - can also be performed with a resistance band. Another great exercise primarily focuses on your ‘pulling muscles’ 5. Star jumps - a good base aerobic exercise to help you build fitness and lung function. Promotes dynamic movement and improves mobility. 6. P r o n e b u t t k i c k e r s -

slightly more advanced, challenges core and upper body strength and stability whilst elevating heart rate. Click on the link to see a video of all the exercises. https://youtu.be/1i8P7HxMObE What else can I do to help myself? Food is fuel! We all know eating a balanced diet is the key to good health, but many cancer patients struggle to actually eat solid calories as appetite has decreased when the immune system becomes suppressed. Eating enough protein to maintain/ build lean muscle is ofte n overlooked as are vitamin packed cancer fighting cruciferous veg. Smoothies can provide a quick and easy solution to fuelling the body with nutrient dense calories that are easy to digest.

Here’s two Cancer friendly smoothie recipes packed full of vital vitamins and minerals, protein, fibre, and healthy fats. Banana and almond power shake • 1 scoop vanilla whey protein (or equivalent) • 1 banana • 1 tablespoon almond butter • 1 teaspoon turmeric • 1 large handful fresh spinach • 1 teaspoon chia seeds • 150ml unsweetened almond milk or water • Ice • Blend and serve!

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High fibre gut health shake • 1 scoop vanilla whey protein (or equivalent) • 1 large stalk of raw broccoli • 20 blueberries • 1/2 avocado • 10 cacao nibs or heaped teaspoon cacao powder • 150ml unsweetened kefir milk • Ice • Blend to serve!

1. Foot to hand with torso twist

2. Downward dog active stretch

3. Dumbbell push press

4. Squat to row

5.Star jumps

6.Prone butt kickers

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#WECAN

Women Empowered through Coaching and Networking

Women Empowered through Coaching and Networking (#WECAN) is a £1.7 million project offering funded support for the next generation of women leaders in the Leeds City Region.

Led by Leeds Beckett University and working in partnership with Edge Hill University and Social Enterprise Yorkshire and Humber, #WECAN aims to enhance the resilience and growth of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) by building the leadership skills, capabilities, and opportunities of women in the Leeds City Region. The project, part funded by the European Social Fund with support from the Department of Work and Pensions offers funded support and training to businesses and their women employees to help them progress into, and within leadership roles. The programme works to identify participants’ existing skills, current

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barrie rs, and future opportunities to create an individualised flexible plan. Professor George Lodorfos, Dean of Leeds Business School, said: “At Leeds Business School we recognise the incredibly important role which small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play in the Leeds City Region and the significant contribution they make to our economy. We are committed to supporting SMEs across the region to sustainably scale-up and grow, and we truly believe that their resilience and growth can be enhanced by maximising the untapped potential of women in leadership positions.”

George Lodorfos

Fully funded ILM (Institute of Leadership and Management) accredited courses in coaching and mentoring, leadership and team skills and leadership and management are available to eligible businesses. Courses are delivered by a team of academics and professional development specialists from the Leadership Centre within Leeds Business School. In addition to accredited qualifications, academic experts at Edge Hill University are offering courses and training to help women

develop their leadership skills. To support the qualifications and courses on offer, #WECAN have scheduled a programme of online events including taster sessions, masterclasses, and workshops. Taster sessions are open to all and allow those interested in the project to find out more about how #WECAN can support their business and women employees; whilst providing an opportunity to experience first-hand some of the training on offer. Upcoming

topics include how to build positive working relationships, tips on how to manage a remote team and how to ignite creative thinking in your business. Masterclasses and workshops are exclusively for those who are enrolled and are participating in the project. Upcoming sessions including empowering women to be resilient leaders, reflective practice and how to be an assertive leader. Jill Goodwin, #WECAN Project

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Martina Topic

Manager and Leadership Consultant at Leeds Beckett University said “We are really excited to deliver our programme of online events and connect with women and organisations from across the Leeds City Region. We hope to bring women from different industries together, who are at different stages within their careers and provide an opportunity for them to network and learn, sharing their knowledge and experiences with each other, and become part of the #WECAN community.” The project offers participating organisations the opportunity to improve their own outcomes through collaborative working, knowledge exchange and increased productivity, whilst contributing to change in

improving the labour market and opportunities for women and businesses in our region. Dr Martina Topic, Senior Lecturer at Leeds Beckett University and #WECAN research lead said: “#WECAN provides a valuable opportunity to women who want to foster career development, as the two teams at Leeds Beckett and Edge Hill are offering coaching training, masterclass sessions and bespoke training based on identified needs. There is something for every woman in the project, whether becoming a coach, obtaining a leadership

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certificate or upskilling through sessions improving technical and promotional skills, communication, etc. #WECAN does not discriminate and we invite women of all origins and all career aspirations to explore the project and take on this unique opportunity.” #WECAN is welcoming applications from women in the Leeds City Region who are either self-employed, or working for a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME) or social enterprise. To register your interest in #WECAN complete the short enquiry form online at www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/wecan.

WA K E F I E L D F I R S T

WAKEFIELD, A LEARNING CITY & DISTRICT An ambitious plan for the district’s residents and businesses.

Wakeﬁeld Council is working towards becoming a UNESCO ‘Learning City’ through its Employment and Skills Strategy ●

Skills for the future

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Local system for local needs

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Access to skills & employment for all

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Lifelong careers & progression

For more information on this strategy visit: www.wakefieldfirst.com/wakefield-learning-city/ info@wakefieldfirst.com wakefieldfirst.com

Mature models raise a brew to older women

with a fabulous vintage fashion show and afternoon tea

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Two Yorkshire silver models will be taking a step back in time with a vintage catwalk and Royal Afternoon Tea at Goldsborough Hall in September – to celebrate grey, white and silver haired women.

“We were so sad to cancel last year’s #silverandsassy event during Yorkshire Fashion Week due to the pandemic,” says 71-year-old model Annie. “And we couldn’t be more excited about getting the ‘grey is gorgeous’ message out there once again.

Silver curve model and Yorkshire Businesswoman member Rachel Peru and former TV cook turned mature model Annie Stirk have joined forces to salute their silver sisters with fashion and fizz at the grand 16th century Hall on September 30. Goldsborough’s luxurious afternoon tea is named after HRH Princess Mary – the Queen’s aunt – who lived at the Hall with her husband Viscount Lascelles in the 1920s.

“We’re both passionate about vintage, sustainable clothing – and booting out the growing old gracefully idea. We hope everyone will have fun taking part in what should be a fabulous event.”

Ninety guests are expected to attend the runway event between 2-5pm, dressed in their finest vintage glam or pre-loved clothes. The event, based in the Hall’s beautiful Orangery and hosted by ITV news presenter Christine Talbot, will feature a diverse range of 15 models – all over the age of 45, including a female vicar.

The Sassy & Silver catwalk and afternoon tea will also support pioneering York women’s charity Kyra, which provides courses, therapies, and events for vulnerable women. Yorkshire Businesswoman editor Gill Laidler and executive Mandy Taylor will be there too.

To book tickets to the event- https:// w w w. t i c k e t t a i l o r. c o m / e v e n t s / goldsboroughhallgardens/548438 Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

Harron Homes Yorkshire launch photography competition

In celebration of this year’s Yorkshire Day on 1st August, Harron Homes Yorkshire has launched a brand-new photography competition in recognition of the beauty and uniqueness of the county of Yorkshire. The Leeds-based housebuilder is encouraging people from across the county to take part in the competition, with the winning entries earning a place for each month of Harron’s upcoming 2022 calendar. The calendar will also mark a special year for Harron, with the company celebrating 30 years of operation. Images can cover everything from areas of natural beauty to animals, people, or everyday

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IMAGE: A previous entry into a Harron Homes photography competition: The Northern Dales captured by David Uffindall - The Northern Dales

life in Yorkshire. Alison Taylor-Shaw, Sales and Marketing Director for Harron Homes Yorkshire said: “We want to celebrate all things Yorkshire and capture this wonderful county. We’re looking forward to seeing all of the entries and putting together the calendar for an exciting year ahead.” To enter the competition, please submit your images to harronlovesyorkshire@ unsworthsugden.co.uk, along with a short descriptive caption. Entries must be in by Monday 15th November 2021, with the top 12 images being selected for use on Harron’s 2022 calendar.

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Supporting Yorkshire Businesswomen Late last year it became clear that there was a need for a magazine to support and champion businesswomen across the Yorkshire region. Not to shy away from a challenge, even during a pandemic, the team at Ghost Publishing, owners of TopicUK, decided to create such a magazine,this one albeit publishing digitally to start.

So, in November 2020 we published the first edition of Yorkshire Businesswoman magazine, securing an interview with Channel 4 managing director Sinead Rocks as our lead and cover story. A second and third edition followed before we made the decision to go into print for our fourth edition in July. This edition coincided with the launch of the Yorkshire Businesswoman membership where for just £20 a month, businesswomen can join us to network at Dakota

Hotel Leeds, one of our partners, have access to a dedicated members area online where they can receive support and network with other me mbe rs as well as receiving discounts and offers from across the region. O ver the coming months as the membership grows, networking events will be set up in other areas, we are already looking at York, Scarborough, Halifax and Huddersfield. To celebrate both the launch of the print magazine and the membership, our first Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

event was held in early July at Dakota Leeds where more than 60 members joined us, along with our ambassadors, Yorkshire Shepherdess Amanda Owen and former Calendar presenter Christine Talbot. Also joining us was celebrity hairdresser Andrew Barton alongside guest speaker Nicky Chance Thompson DL, chief executive of The Piece Hall. Following the event, we are also delighted to announce that actress Gaynor Faye has also become an ambassador and we will be featuring Gaynor who will talk about her career in our next edition. Here we share just a few images from the event.

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If you would like to become a member you can sign up at https://yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk or for further information email hello@yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk Our next event is 10 September at Dakota Leeds and we will be celebrating Christmas with our party event on 3 December. Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

A new generation of yorkshire designers By Bernadette Gledhill

I feel privileged to have worked with many of the regions fashion departments in Universities and Colleges for over 20 years, providing a service to present final year degree shows showcasing the work of the very talented students. I was absolutely delighted to hear that in July this year Bradford School Of Art had planned a final year degree show for students and were sourcing Models. It was the sheer thought of once again watching a live catwalk show and to see the younger generation of designers and models able to show their skills and talents to a real live audience that made me so happy! I caught up with Angela Loftus who is the BA (Hons) Fashion Programme Leader The BA (Hons) Fashion degree is designed to produce highly qualified employment ready graduates who are able to play leading roles in a wide range of fashion related careers. It provides a broad-based, high

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quality education in fashion, encompassing a range of cognitive, creative and subject specific skills, knowledge and understanding, allowing applicants to develop their awareness and understanding of the demands and creative potential of professional practice for employment, enterprise and post graduate study. Lucky The broad range of modules allow students to develop a professional understanding of fashion design and the wider art and design practices within a range of contexts supported by competitions, live projects, subject specialised visits and industry led presentations. The pande mic dramatically changed the industry for so many students around the country. Covid hit students studying on practical courses that required space and specialist equipment and resources particularly hard. Everything that the students needed suddenly became more challenging and at times felt impossible. However, students were lucky that teaching continued throughout online and as soon as they were able to access the building in bubbles following the new way of interacting and teaching, the students at all levels were back and were finally putting collections together. Elements including fabric sourcing continued to be a struggle which forced the students to show incredible determination and innovation which resulted in Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

phenomenal outcomes. Looking at the work produced you would never have guessed that this work was created during such a difficult and challenging time. Angela is quite rightly very proud of every single one of them. Created As I watched the show I could only imagine how incredible for each student having had to deal with their own personal circumstances and how they had been individually hit by the pandemic they must have felt. For the first time last year the college was unable to have a fashion show, so

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the 2020 graduates were also invited back to this years 2021 show to showcase their collections. The students created collections that were influenced from a broad range of sources and concepts aimed at a wide spectrum of target markets. Inspiration ranged from a collection made from Looney Tunes duvet covers and upcycled sportswear to develop a series of jumpsuits. ’Just doing it …!, 0 to hero” emphasised the growing importance of sustainability within the fashion industry, The bold and daring contents of

Granny’s Closet collection showcased the most lavish and exuberant outfits that you would expect to see on a night out. Full of bright neon hand painted prints, wrapped in luxurious fake fur and dripping’ in sequins.

interviews with the students, as well as creating cvs and data bases of places where they could seek employment once they graduate. There were a number of employers attending the graduate fashion show who are now in discussions with a number of students.

It is so uplifting after all the hard work that goes into a fashion degree that graduates move on to follow a vast range of career paths once graduated including designers, photographers, stylists and many have also established their own labels.

Wishing all the graduates from 2020 and 2021 a successful future career which they are all clearly passionate about.

As part of the degree programme there are many modules which prepare students for getting a job to match their skill set. Fashion job agencies conduct mock

Bernadette Gledhill www.bernadettegledhill.com

AND … what a show it was.

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For the love of friendly Fashion Following the recent fashion industry news about how shockingly garments are generally only worn 10 times before being discarded, and companies such as H&M playing their part by donating $10,000 to Unicef and giving half the proceeds of their new range of more sustainable children’s T-shirts to the NGO, one local Yorkshire businesswoman Camille Johnson is on a mission to do something about it by launching a new swap, buy and sell sustainable fashion app, Clobber SwapTM.

Born from a private Facebook group in January 2020, the business idea grew into a successful Facebook community and has now evolved further into their very own Clobber SwapTM app.

organically, fuelled by the need for an environmentally and financially sound way for women to indulge in fashion, without the need for a credit card or guilty conscience.”

The app allows members to search “Clobber SwapTM is the celebration for items easier and safeguards of women and fashion,” explains the community, its principles and founder Camille. “Whilst I may ideals, creating a safe haven for have started this, the ladies women to swap and sell. who signed up have taken real ownership. Together we have “I have felt so passionate about created something really special this community from the humble and unique over the last eighteen beginnings, because it is more months, with sustainability being than just an alternative buying at the heart of the idea. I originally platform. The Clobber love, intended to swap good or unworn supportive comments and gifts clothes with female friends and included in the parcels being sent family, advertising clothes that around the country warms my were too good to throw away or heart every day. It feels safe. It is donate. If they went to a good about mutual support. It simply home and people loved them, makes me proud to be a part of I was happy. This idea grew this female fellowship of fashion.”

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Camille launched the group with just 32 members and, without any promotion, the membership grew by word-of-mouth. Within only 6 weeks there were nearly 7,000 members, serving over 15,000 monthly posts of items to swap or sell. Now, on the app, thousands of items have been listed by hundreds of Clobber Swap members. “In addition,” Camille enthuses “Swapping clothes reduces the fashion industry’s environmental impact. Collectively we can

all make a move away from fast fashion and benefit our wellbeing and community too.” Camille’s passion is infectious and underpins the meteoric growth of the company. Her 25 years in business as co-owner of a successful marketing and advertising agency has been utilised in bringing the look and feel of the app to reflect the core strategy of helping women look good and feel fabulous, every day, without it costing the earth. Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

“We are hoping to attract more people a fully-fledged Clobber Swapper. to join the sustainable fashion frenzy Some members were paying up to on our app. New members can now £150 per month in selling fees using enjoy a 30-day free trial to get a taste other platforms like eBay, Vinted of what Clobber Swap is all about. and Depop. Then, for just £3.99 per month with no commission to pay, members “This is a much more affordable way can enjoy all the perks of being to make the most of unwanted

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items and the surprises received in the packages create smiles, Clobber buddies and a huge dollop of Clobber love.” The app is available to download on Google Play or visit the App store: just search Clobber Swap.

Teen singersongwriter releases first single Young Bradford singer is excited to be releasing her first single which she wrote and recorded during the pandemic, to overcome her own worries, struggles and feelings of isolation. Sienna Craven, 15 from Apperley Bridge, has been singing since she was a toddler, with teachers recognising her incredible talent from a young age, encouraging her to have singing lessons at primary school, before she moved onto training with a qualified vocal coach and producer in Yorkshire, who has toured throughout the UK, Europe, USA and Japan and has worked with BBC Radio one and two, CBS America, Warner Brother Pictures, Antifragile Records USA and toured with Keane, Kasabian, The Wombats, Supergrass and more.

outlet and this has always made me happy.

Sienna has both dyslexia and dyspraxia and finds music a real outlet, to not only show and express her own emotions, but also to help overcome any worries she maybe feeling. She said; “I know the power of music is an amazing way of expressing who you are and how you feel. Like many others, during the pandemic, I was feeling a bit down with having to stay at home and home schooling, not seeing my friends and family, I was grateful that I had music and singing as my

“One day, I started to write down some words that had been running through my mind – ‘Better in the End’ – as I picked up my pencil, I started to write a song… I kept thinking about all the people suffering, struggling and having challenging times; I wanted to write something meaningful to remind us all that not everything lasts forever, and things do get better.” “I have always wanted to release music, but I’ve never really had the confidence, but this song feels different and I feel ready to share it wider. I hope my song encourages others that things will be better in the end.

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Preloved in Yorkshire

By Rachel Peru

Whilst we all strive to create a more sustainable wardrobe, I completely understand that for some people, the thought of ‘vintage’ fashion is a bit overwhelming, but what about buying preloved clothes? This month I’m looking into some of the great Yorkshire places to shop for those designer and high street preloved bargains.

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Preloved in Red Ben Rhydding Starting with my favourite shop, Preloved in Red, which recently moved to the Ben Rhydding promenade and is packed full of designer preloved goodies. Owner Tammy Clark-Walker has a real knack for finding excellent quality preloved designer clothes, handbags and jewellery, from all decades and labels and there’s something to suit all price brackets. If you love your labels as well as your jewellery then take a look at Tammy’s collection of reworked authentic Chanel, Gucci and Prada jewellery, including rare Chanel button necklaces and reworked trinkets from around the world. You never know what you’re going to come across and I’m still kicking myself for not buying the White Burberry trench coat I once saw - the one that got away!

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I love fashion and whenever I’ve worn designer outfits, I can tell the difference, it’s in the cut, the way it fits my body and the quality of the materials. You are paying the extra for craftmanship and I can really appreciate that, but I admit my bank balance just won’t stretch to the investment at full retail price. I asked Tammy if she had a favourite item that she found hard to part with and as you can imagine she said it was impossible to choose, but the snakeskin Alexander McQueen boots and Chanel handbag would be on her list.

It’s easy to think that shopping preloved designer is only for those special occasions, but you can find outfits for all occasions. I love this MaxMara Weekend linen jumpsuit (£65) paired with a Christian Lacroix denim jacket (£75) for a relaxed day look. But if you are looking some evening glamour, this might be a chance for you to step out of your comfort zone and have some fun with your style. I’ve fallen in love with these White Stuart Weitzman high boots (£175

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originally £780) worn with a Phase Eight sparkle dress (£30), channelling some 80’s style! Tammy makes sure all the clothes she sells are in the very best condition and you would never know they’ve been well loved before. What’s not to love about being kinder to your bank balance and the environment? https://www. facebook.com/ prelovedilkey IG @prelovedilkle

Practically Perfect Wetherby

Next stop: The Ilkley Dress Agency The Ilkley Dress Agency has been in Ilkley for 30 years, so buying preloved for them is really nothing new. Now under new management with Mel Upham at its helm and a new location on The Grove in Ilkley, you will find a beautiful range of previously owned and sometimes never worn designer and high street clothing accessories, jewellery and footwear. The beauty of preloved shops like this means you can also sell your own clothes through their boutiques so you can continue the cycle and help create a more sustainable high street. Owner Mel has a keen eye and only takes seasonal items preferring items to be less than two years old, unless it’s a vintage classic of course!

industry now, and the consideration that consumers are making to change the way of how we shop. I am passionate in supporting this more sustainable ethos for fashion, and at the Dress Agency I am delighted to be able to sell items that someone else will cherish. It’s definitely worth a visit and you can always pop into Bettys for a treat afterwards too! https://ilkleydressagency.co.uk IG @ilkleydressagency

Practically Perfect - the name says it all, has been located on the Wetherby Shambles for 30 years and I can’t believe I’ve only just discovered it. You are spoilt for choice with two floors full of some amazing gems including pieces from Chanel, Mulberry, Christian Louboutin and so much more. If handbags are your thing you won’t be disappointed, but you need be quick as demand is high and with online sales across the world they sell quickly. I love thinking of the places that a preloved handbag might have been with the previous owner and that I get to continue its journey. Owner Sally Newband says, “it’s amazing to snap up a designer item for a fraction of its original retail price, it’s the stuff of dreams for any fashion forward designer hunter” and I just love her shop motto…

“pre-loved to re-love” www.practicallyperfect.com IG @practicallyperfectwetherby

I spoke to Mel to find out why she’s so passionate about selling Preloved fashion,“I love how important sustainability is for the fashion Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

‘A perfume is more than an extract, it is a presence in abstraction. A perfume, for me, is a mystique!’ Giorgio Armani

The fantasy of fragrance By :

J a net

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M i l ner -W a l k e r

Founder

Bes pok e

A dvantage

We associate fragrance with moments in time - our first kiss, weddings, the birth of our first child, churches and funerals, long balmy summer holidays and cold winter retreats. Our smell is our first sense to develop, unborn babies can smell whilst still in the womb. Fragrance evokes specific memories and emotions far more than any of our other senses. Research has found that people can remember smells with 65% accuracy after a year, versus visual recall, which is only 50/50 after a quarter of the time.

with women known to have a more developed sense of smell than men. We can also smell feelings – from fear, to happiness, with our smell signals existing in our sweat, which helps others to empathise with how we are feeling. The only time we tend not to use our sense of smell is when we are sleeping.

Like taste – which can be classified into five main categories - sweet, sour, salty, bitter and umami – scent can be classified into seven – musky, putrid, pungent, camphoraceous (think mothballs, not pleasant!), ethereal, floral, and minty. All scents are made up of a mixture of these seven ingredients.

It’s an Illusion

done by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, VOC’s emitted from products like perfumes can contribute to as much pollution as petroleum emissions by cars. Our sense of smell is highly developed, scientist have determined that we can identify at least one trillion different smells,

The word perfume is derived from the Latin word ‘per fumus’ which is used to describe ‘through smoke’ which is an interesting term. Perfume was refined by the Romans, Persians, and Arabs, and in East Asia where much of it was incensed based. The first modern perfume was made of

Fragrance oils are derived from many different sources in nature – the bark of a tree, to roots, fruits, leaves and flowers. One of the most highly regarded scents is that of rose, which varies in quality. Who would have thought that to create 1kg of rose oil, you would need to use over four tonnes of roses? Several plants like sandalwood and agarwood, have been subject to over-farming and the industry has been known to use animal-derived ingredients from musk deer to civet cats, whales, and beavers, although a number of these have also been replaced by synthetics. Many synthetics contain VOC’s (which are volatile organic compounds) which when sprayed can be damaging to the environment when they react with sunlight and other chemicals in the atmosphere. Based on a 2018 study Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

scented oils blended in an alcohol solution, and commissioned by Queen Elizabeth of Hungary in 1370, and known as ‘Hungary Water’. Fragrance brands are particularly good at storytelling. Luxury brands have made heritage fragrances iconic through blending distinctive ingredients, packaging them in beautiful bottles, and launching them with showstopping campaigns. This year Chanel No.5 is celebrating their centurion, with experiential theme parks set up in Selfridges, to immerse shoppers in a factory-type setting that includes workstations and demonstrations. Harking back to its original black and white packaging, with the introduction of new product lines, the pop-up promises to blend the old with the new, introducing everyday luxury. Creating fragrances that we can afford to buy into, luxury brands allow us to step into their world, one of aspiration, where we can fantasise and dream, creating an illusion to a world we many not normally have access too. Burberry has also launched a new

fragrance, one for men called Burberry Hero, created to express ‘animality’ and ‘true humanity,’ with notes of bergamot, infused with juniper and black pepper, with a heart of cedarwoods, sourced from Virginia, the Atlas Mountains, and the Himalayas. The bottle is

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inspired by the shape of a horse’s hoof. The description is so evocative it transports you around the world, you can visualise the man behind the fragrance, it sounds like the opening of an epic film, and you can almost smell the fragrance before you have even tested it.

Upcycled Fragrances Like every other beauty category, fragrance has also experienced some significant changes during the pandemic, one of the most noticeable changes is how fragrance has been led by the focus on health and wellness. The boundaries between beauty, wellness, health, and fitness have merged, creating a multidimensional sector that streamlines our body, our mind and soul, with fragrance sitting comfortably within this through the introduction of aromatherapy. Aromatherapy uses essential oils distilled from plants, for therapeutic purposes. Aromatherapy works by activating smell receptors in our nose, sending messages through to the nervous system in our brain enhancing our mood and wellbeing. Lavender, vanilla or Ylang Ylang can help us to relax when we are stressed, peppermint or citrus can perk us up when we are feeling tired. Conscious consumerism is another trend coming out of the pandemic, where we are far more conscious of the impact of our purchasing decisions on the health of the environment. Sustainability is a hot topic, with brands reducing their carbon footprint and the amount of waste and pollution they produce, introducing more innovative and environmentally friendly solutions. The fragrance category is no different and has seen the introduction of a new concept referred to as upcycled fragrances. Upcycled fragrances utilise products that would otherwise be discarded – like wasted coffee granules, leftover

cardamom pods, sawdust and old rose petals – to include as ingredients in products. One of the first luxury fragrances to be introduced based on upcycling ingredients is Etat Libre d’O range’s I AM TRASH which has been made from rose absolute, cedarwood atlas and fruits. Described as a fruity, floral, and woody fragrance, a collaboration between Daniela Andrier, the ‘nose’ of the fragrance and Givaudan, one of the world’s largest flavour and fragrance manufacturers, it has since become one of the bestselling products in the company’s history. Smaller indie fragrance brands are following suit – like Ellis Brooklyn who launched Salt Eau de Parfum created from leftover cardamom pods, chips, and sawdust for cedarwood from a furniture company, and tree stumps to create their fragrance. Apparently, this smells like ‘sea-licked skin ‘. Atelier Perfumes uses cedarwood and cypress bioabsolutes, extracted from woods that have already been distilled for its essential oil, as well as sugi wood essential oil which is distilled from the dead stumps and roots of the Japanese sugi tree. Strange to think that something that smells beautiful, is created out of leftover waste, perhaps this is a nod to the illusion created by fragrances, with upcycled ingredients said to create a more complex scent. This is another step in the right direction to creating a greener beauty regime, provided fragrance brands are not using this to present their brand as sustainable, when they are not following through across the rest of their product footprint. Anyone interested in smelling like I am Trash’?

About Janet Milner-Walker Janet is the founder of Bespoke Advantage, a brand management company that build brands across the beauty, spa, and wellness sector, she is also a consultant, and a speaker. Over the past twenty years she has developed and launched products and brands for companies including M&S, Harvey Nichols, Boots, Body Shop and Crabtree & Evelyn as well as worked with many start-ups. Their awardwinning portfolio of clients includes haircare specialists and make-up artists, skincare entrepreneurs, investors and beauty, spa and wellness companies based in the UK and internationally –

www.thebespokeadvantage.com.

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Luxury break that’s super pet friendly L a w y e r a n d Yo r k s h i r e Businesswoman member Jodie Hill took time out of her busy schedule recently to visit the beautiful Coniston Hotel and Country Estate & Spa just outside Skipton on behalf of Yorkshire Businesswoman magazine, to enjoy their hospitality and test out their dog friendly facilities.

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“We arrived at the estate around lunchtime as we had a packed day ahead of us and were lucky enough to park right by the entrance to unload (there’s a lot to unload with two doggies!)

(we chose the seaweed infusion) in the private spa. The bath was so relaxing from start to finish, the experience lasted about 45 minutes whilst enjoying breathtaking views over the lake, along with a glass of Prosecco and lemon drizzled strawberries,” she continued. “I enjoyed the company with a girlfriend, but the experience would have been a very romantic experience with a partner.

“Many hotels who allow dogs are very strict and make the owner complete a disclaimer, they are also not allowed in any of the communal areas including bar and restaurant,” Jodie said. “Not at Coniston, they were so welcoming with staff leaving the “The staff were very helpful and reception desk to greet them friendly and constantly popped too. As our room wasn’t ready back into our private garden for occupying, staff offered area to offer drinks and helpfully to look after my dogs in the gave us a five-minute warning so large reception area whilst my we could don our robes before companion and I headed to the heading to the main spa.” spa where we had treatments prebooked, hence our early The ladies made the short walk arrival.” to the main spa, situated a short walk away. “This area boasts Jodie and her guest were several small infinity whirlpools, whisked off to the spa which again overlooking the beautiful is situated at the top of a small lake. There is a variety of saunas hill adjacent to the main hotel, and steam rooms as well as an overlooking the lake. “As we indoor swimming pool. Outside walked in there was a beautiful there is a bar area serving snacks smell to welcome us. We were and drinks either at the bar or taken into a small private brought to your bed/ sun lounger. room, where we were offered a choice of healthy drinks and “My companion and I enjoyed a a healthy shot of goodness. The porn star martini and espresso knowledgeable staff explained martini as well as Prosecco exactly what the experience was whilst sitting by the pool along all about and what we could with a fresh glass of water and expect, before we were also ice which they kindly kept given robes and flip flops in a topped up as it was a warm little bag and shown where the day. I can highly recommend the changing rooms before being cocktails, they are delicious, and escorted to the private spa area. the Prosecco was kept behind the bar on ice for us, so it didn’t “The first treat was the ‘Tea bath’ get warm in the sun. Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

The re was a large range of comfortable chairs and beds outside so guests could sunbathe and we were very lucky that the weather was glorious, so we spent quite some time outside soaking up the atmosphere, it was very relaxing,” Jodie added. “Spa experience finished and feeling relaxed and refreshed, we collected the dogs from reception to find out they had been walked, very well looked after and had made lots of friends. It really allowed me to relax knowing they were living their best life.

“It was lovely to see lots of other have both. Lots of lovely toiletries dogs within a luxury environment. were provided complimentary, My dogs have raw food so the fridge along with new fresh fluffy bath “Our room enjoyed long views in the room was useful, as well as robes, towels and flip flops. There over the lake on the ground floor, cold water for us on arrival along was also a very nice hairdryer which was perfect for my dogs if with a selection of coffee, tea and (essential post spa!) and full-size they needed to pop outside,” she biscuits. iron and ironing board. continued “and did not feel like a ‘dog room’. It was impeccably “The bathroom very spacious and “The room had sliding doors so clean and smelled fresh. In fact, it super clean, with a large bath and that we could let the dogs out and felt like a suite. double rainfall shower, unusual to there was a lovely outside seating

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to chat to us asking about our stay. Meanwhile the drinks were already arriving. “As we had worked up an appetite walking the dog’s pre-dinner, we ordered bread with balsamic and olives before our main meal. The olives were really tasty and there were so many of them. Some places are shy on the portion sizes, these guys were not.

area overlooking the lake, which meant we could both catch up on work, one from inside the room one outside and perfect for sitting out on what was one of the hottest days of the year. “Just a stone’s throw away from our room was a beautiful lake and woods which was perfect for a quick swim for the dogs and a lovely

“For starters we chose the classic prawn cocktail with lots of fresh walk to tire then out before dinner,” juicy prawns and the chicken liver pate with a gorgeous side of she added. chutney. For the main course, we Dinner is in the aptly named both had steak, which was cooked restaurant ‘The View’. Boasting to perfection with home-made hand beautiful high ceilings with a glass cut chips. We ordered extra sides: wall so you can enjoy the views of the seasonable veg which again the grounds whilst enjoying dinner. was a generous sized portion and “The service was incredible - whilst perfectly cooked along with a bowl ordering from the menu with the of rocket which came with loads of waitress via her iPad, who stayed delicious, shaved Parmesan. Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

“I was delighted to learn that dogs were allowed in the restaurant which is amazing,” Jodie enthused, “but they were shattered after their walk and swim, so we left them taking a nap in the room whilst we dined before picking them up when we retired to the bar to finish our wine. “There were lots of other dogs in the bar, which was really friendly, it was nice to see everybody chatting and able to mingle, having dogs really does break the ice. Feeling hungry later, we ordered room service, it was lovely to have pizza delivered to the room.

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“The next morning, we headed back to the dining room for breakfast where there was a buffet or a choice of hot meals. We both ordered the full English which was really tasty, service was swift, and it was lovely to see other dogs. Although not many were in the dining room at dinner, quite a few people brought their pooch in for breakfast. The checkout process was really easy and efficient. Staff had already popped the bill under the door, so we could have cards ready as we headed to reception. I have already booked another trip and will be planning a girl’s weekend very soon!

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The Little Girl who became a legacy You only have to watch tv programmes like Who Do You Think You Are? or Long Lost Family, to see how thrilled and curious people are when they receive a photograph of a relative. An old picture featuring an ancestor not only connects us to them but can help us understand how the life they lived shaped our own lives. Lincoln & Perrin Roth Read Photography www.rothreadphotography.com

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It isn’t necessary to have lived a long and sensational life either

– even a small girl can make an impact. A Life Barely Lived As a child I was fascinated by a young girl in a photograph that sat on my Grandparent’s mantlepiece.

My Granny (Grace) explained it was a picture of her older sister whose name was Hilda. One day in September 1918 Hilda was feeling unwell and fell asleep on the couch. Suddenly she began to convulse and foam at the mouth. Grace, who was only 8 at the time, screamed for her mother who arrived quickly and tried everything she could to revive her. Unfortunately, it was all in vain, and Hilda died aged just 14 years old. Still a Part of the Family Hilda’s picture remained on my Grandparent’s mantlepiece until they both died. The photo was then handed down to my parents along with several family albums. Now they are all in my care. This small legacy ensured Hilda’s short life was very much remembered, not just by Grace but by future generations. It will always remind me of being in my Grandparent’s cottage. I can see my Granny in her rocking chair answering my relentless questions about the ‘olden days’, my Grandad pottering in and out of the garden, the sweet-tin and home-made cake on the table. New Stories and Emotions As you can see, when photographs are handed down through the generations new memories are created and they become even more sentimental. Today, a young girl called Hilda,

who tragically lost her life over a 100 years ago, is not only remembered by my family but has now been introduced to you. Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

Win a free enhanced hair system worth up to £1200 To celebrate Enhanced Hair Studio Northern Ireland’s leading hair loss studio expanding to Mirfield, they are offering Yorkshire Businesswoman readers the chance to win a free Enhanced Hair System worth up to £1200 Owner Niamh Curtis has studied and worked in hair loss for six years and as she has suffered herself, she understands how devastating and distressing it can be for a woman to lose her hair, whether it’s due to natural thinning or the effects of cancer, alopecia or trichotillomania. The innovative Enhanced Hair System has been described as “life changing” as it can be integrated with any existing hair or can even be attached when there is no hair at all. Niamh makes a custom mould for each client, so their systems are bespoke, there’s no other system like it. Existing hair is pulled through a fine light weight mesh and secured in place using a silicone lined micro bead. In some cases where there is complete alopecia, a small polyurethane strip is attached, and a sensitive surgical tape is used to keep the system in place. Once the system is securely fitted to the head, a custom-made silk-base is sewn in which mimic the scalp and our own brand of Enhanced Hair extensions. When this is completed, hair is cut and style to the desired look. The service is completely confidential, with full privacy using dividers in the salon so clients can sit at ease and relax while we work our magic. “Enhanced hair salons use a non-pushy sales

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approach and will only provide services when it’s needed and when clients genuinely need help,” explained Niamh. “We use top quality products and after care service are part of our core values in customer service. We offer free consultations and our Enhanced Hair Systems are custom made for each individual client using only the best quality human hair. It’s a non-surgical system so you can be guaranteed to see instant results and walk out the door with a set of new luscious locks.” As proud supporters of Alopecia UK, Enhanced Hair Studio have been actively promoting and encouraging people to speak out about the challenging and the often-taboo subject of female hair loss despite more than 50% of woman suffering from noticeable hair loss in their lifetime. To be in with a chance to win all you have to do is book in for a free consultation before the end of September and you could receive a brand-new custom-made Enhanced Hair System valued at up to £1200. To book in contact Enhanced Hair Studio at their Mirfield Salon on 07918019533, you can also email them at leeds@enhancedhairstudio.com

This client suffered hair loss after having her children, it never grew back the same:

This client is on medication which has affected her hair on the top and causes patches of alopecia:

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Toni Thornton Art collaborates with the Style Sisters Toni Thornton, whose abstract art graces the walls of many a celebrity home, has announced her latest collaboration with celebrity interior stylists, the Style Sisters. those moments of reflection in an organised and beautifully styled space.” Toni continues, “Gemma and Charlotte have taken so much time and care to ensure that the artworks and homewares we have designed and created together suit a range of their client’s homes and trends and we are incredibly proud of the final collection, with style and detail at the heart of this project.”

The styling duo, Gemma and Charlotte, specialise in detox, organising and re-styling of homes and wardrobes and have joined forces with breakthrough and innovative British artist, Toni Thornton, to combine both style and functionality with a new limited-edition collection.

Toni told Yorkshire Businesswoman; “I have followed the Style Sisters online for some time and I love their passion for styling and the attention to detail that they put into their work. Gemma and Charlotte reached out for artwork on a number of highprofile projects and naturally, our collaboration began to form. As a

team, we found that the duo could use their creativity and knowledge of interiors and I could supply artwork to suit their briefs, bringing all aspects of their beautiful designs together. The Style Sisters aim is to create a tidy, stylish and organised space to free their client’s minds and artwork is the perfect addition to allow for

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From Perrie Edwards to Helen Skelton, Toni Thornton’s artwork is featured in many notable homes - which is why the partnership with celebrity go-to duo the Style Sisters proves to be the perfect match. Recently the trio worked together on a piece for the home of Georgia Kousoulou and Tommy Mallet, which created great intrigue online. Gemma and Charlotte added: “We are so thrilled to be collaborating with Toni Thornton. We have used Toni’s artwork on many of our projects and our clients are always as in awe with her pieces as we are.” The new collection will include three prints and three matching, luxury cushion covers, all in keeping with

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Toni’s signature style - the same style adored by the Style Sisters and their clients. Toni, who draws much of her inspiration from rural land and landscapes is known for creating artwork which offers abstract layers and unique compositions and depth, allowing her artwork to be perceived differently by each viewer. The signature earthy tones and classic navy palette of the upcoming prints would fit perfectly upon the walls of a neutral space whilst the abstract cushion covers will add life and dimension to an otherwise minimal sofa set up.

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How travelling the world became a career As a certified business and NLP mindset coach for coaches and service-based businesswomen, Amy Crumpton, founder of Social Cactus has learned a thing or two about becoming a money magnet, creating a high-vibe work environment and attracting dream clients on a daily basis. Amy didn’t attend university, followed in my mum’s footsteps her only qualification is an NVQ and started working in banking Level 3 in Travel and Tourism, when I left school. I didn’t love it, as her dream growing up was I was exhausted,” she explained, to work in travel and tourism, “I was totally lacking clarity and perhaps a holiday rep or air very stressed. So, I left the bank steward or even a travel agent, and headed for Spain where I she loved the idea of working worked in a bar and realised abroad. But her journey began for the first time that I could when she was working 24 hours make money doing something a day, seven days a week for a I enjoyed. When I returned turnover that barely matched her home, I started working in PR and nine to five salary. “I originally marketing and although I loved Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

it, I felt massively undervalued working for someone else.

positive which helps them fulfil their potential and reach success. I am also known as the ‘launch queen’ helping women launch new businesses, new programmes and new services.

10am, ge ne rally with some mindset work such as gratitude journaling, a walk and often some yoga. “Day’s vary from coaching sessions, checking with clients and my team or working on projects,” she explained. “I finish around 4pm and enjoy another walk or yoga session which makes all the aches and pains of sitting at a desk melt away.

Deciding that life wasn’t going where she wanted it to, Amy and her fiancé booked a one-way flight and set off to travel the world. However, she still needed “One of the best responses I have to make money and out of the received as we do encourage blue whilst in Guatemala, Amy feedback, in the past week alone met a CEO who was travelling we have helped clients: leave their whilst running a digital marketing nine to five and take a business agency. “She hired me as a full time, have someone make “We are currently in the process social media manager for £10 £18,000 sales in three weeks, of setting up our own foundation, an hour,” Amy explained, “the another become fully booked The Cactus Foundation, which dream was starting to fall into in 1:1’s in a week and make five will support various projects around the world close to our place. Watching how she scaled figures to name a few.” heart. Our first project will be to a business whilst on the road, led me to setting up my own H o w e v e r, r e s p o n s e s h a v e build an animal rescue shelter in social media marketing business, sometimes being negative. “I was Spain for one of our best friends travelling the world for a year, featured in national press a few who runs an animal charity. Other charging a tasty £150 a month months ago and the comments I focuses will be linked to central (well it was tasty back then!). received were less than friendly. and south America to provide local communities with the I soon realised that there were life and business skills to start many women just like me wanting their own businesses, so they to travel the world, setting can provide for their families their own schedule and do it and leave a legacy. This part all without burning out. That’s of the world is very special to when Social Cactus was born.” People should believe us,” she continued “when we in themselves and be were travelling we saw a lot of Today, Amy a multi-six-figure resilient. Be patient dedicated and driven people with business owner with a lifestyle and success will come, very little, we can’t wait to be she used to only dream of, spends I really believe that... able to support them, knowing her days helping women who that with a little help, they can are just like she was, motivated, flourish and create a fantastic determined and capable but life for themselves, their families undercharging and overworking. and families to come. “My aim is to help more women “People should believe in become mone y and wealth themselves and be resilient. Be conscious in whatever industry they are in, so they can close the I think people find it hard to patient and success will come, I gender pay gap and create more believe that you can be a nice really believe that. Also remember of an impact on the world. I help person and make a lot of money to put your health first, when I women operate in a positive state, doing something you love online,” first started out, I would wake up at 6am and jump straight on the reframe their thinking around she added. phone or open the laptop, that their limiting beliefs and feel empowered, motivated and Amy’s day normally starts around is not the answer believe me!”

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Clean beauty, can we take it at face value? By :Lub n a Kh an - Sal i m sur g e o n, sk i n c a re ex p er t and founder of timetobloom.uk

The term ultimately refers to products being free from potentially harmful or controversial ingredients including parabens and talc. Clean beauty brands favour natural, or naturally derived ingredients and any synthetic ingredients used are deemed safe for consumers and the environment. Clean beauty products often have a minimal and transparent list of ingredients, with brands like Neal’s Yard Remedies having dedicated pages on their website for all their ingredients. Admittedly it is still a relatively new term and alongside ‘blue beauty’ and ‘green beauty’ it’s a bit of a buzz word, with no regulatory or In celebration legal definition. And of Organic it’s important to September, I’m acknowledge that not turning the all natural ingredients spotlight on ‘clean are always better for beauty’... the environment, or your skin, and synthetic ingredients can be safer and more effective.

Now more than ever, we as consumers want to know what’s in our skincare and whether we can trust it to go on our face and body. Environmental concerns and moving towards more mindful and conscious consumption have seen a boom in the ‘clean beauty movement’. But what exactly is ‘clean’ beauty?

However, all these terms are being applauded for challenging and questioning what we’re putting on our skin and raising awareness around the impact the beauty industry has on health, ethics and the environment. A brand that I am loving because of its environmental ethos around reusing, recycling and repurposing is the fantastic UpCircle Beauty (www.upcirclebeauty.com) which turn leftover natural raw ingredients into quality skincare products. Check out their fabulous website for more. Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

Clique 100 Club

At Clique 100 they only work with high quality businesses who both bring and receive benefits from being within their Network. Businesses are either referred to them from current members or targeted as part of their Business Development Strategy.

Clique 100 Club is a private Members’ club for high level executives across the corporate, hospitality and luxury sectors.

Membership is for the individual, not the business so that a consistent relationship can be developed. Members have to be the decision maker /autonomy within the business.

What is it?

They provide a business development and events platform which gives members direct access to a network of business leaders, investors, philanthropists and HNWs through a regular calendar of fun events at unique venues in Leeds and Manchester. With only 100 members in each location this allows them to build close, personal relationship with all of their members. They work on a one to one basis to strategise and plan connections.

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Small intimate numbers at bespoke events have proved to work the best for establishing strong relationships during the private dining events. Allowing members to meet one another and give substantial time to discuss mutual opportunities. One to one meetings can be set up at any time between members to make an introduction. Members’ Benefits They have a Private Members area

“For any business to not only make it through the pandemic, but to flourish, adapt and bring its members together in a community and take on new members during lockdown, shows great strength and it will be these businesses that are ahead of the curve as we come out of this challenging time.” Scott Brown - Cluster Director of Sales North INNSiDE by Melia “The club is a great way to meet key decision makers from the Cheshire area, North West and nationally. It is not just lifestyle brands but a great mix of those involved in professional services; property and specialist advisory services. The Club can and has opened doors for me.” Michael Howard-Managing Director Urban Bubble www.clique.co.uk Contact Info:

on their website where they promote member to member offers and benefits across the network. This is where they can

promote your business and any seasonal promotions or special rates you would like to refer to their database.

https://www.instagram.com/ clique100club/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/ UC23Xc5Mj5lBmDgVC5ckdo7Q https://twitter.com/clique100club https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahrestrick-286ab549/

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Changing room comeback A household name for many years, interior designer Linda Barker originally found fame after starring on the classic TV show Changing Rooms during the 1990s. Now expanding beyond interior design and television, the much-loved British designer has launched a new range of homeware, Linda Barker Home. Yorkshire Businesswoman caught up with Linda recently who now resides in East Yorkshire. Growing up, Linda’s dream was to be a cowgirl or a stunt woman, a far cry from where her career path took her, but she secretly admits she still rather fancies the idea of a stunt woman if any film producers are reading this! Linda attended the Surrey Institute, undertaking a BA Hons degree in Fine Art. She started in television presenting Mosaic, a crafting feature on BBC’s Home Front. Prior to this she made a couple of short appearances on ITVs This Morning and Anne and Nick. “When Changing Rooms called to ask if I would like to be interviewed for their brand-new show, I was more than ready for the challenge,” she told us. “I quickly went from first interview to second to finally screen testing, from there we filmed a pilot for what became Changing Rooms. Describing what her industry is like

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for a woman, Linda said: “I definitely think its equal terms in the interior design industry for both men and women, I have never experienced any discrimination in the workplace. In terms of television, I think the playing field is pretty even to, except perhaps when you pass your fiftieth-year celebration. Although I am stronger and fitter now than I ever have been, as an older woman I am noticing that the phone doesn’t quite ring so often. That said, I am an energetic, workloving woman and this additional time has allowed me to be active with the brands I now choose to associate myself with and I relish this, having the time, energy and passion to devote to those that matter to me most.”

So, what is a typical day like for Linda? “During lockdown I’ve been pretty busy. I have a home office and used to working on my own, so I didn’t have to adopt a new regime. In fact, I rather preferred the lack of travelling time, preferring to film or conduct interviews at home on Zoom instead. I have undertaken a large Georgian house refurbishment,” she continued “so any shortfall in work was immediately taken up with the development of the house and gardens here. I love to be busy and can quickly fill a day that shows a blank page in my diary. I still haven’t managed to read the pile of novels stacked ready and waiting for a quiet moment though,” she laughed.

This time has also allowed Linda to “I power walk first thing, do a Zoom, launch her own exclusive homeware yoga practice online then sort out collection. Available exclusively at any house chores for an hour or so home furnishing retailer Terrys, the before a late breakfast. Office time exciting homeware collection has or development meetings will then been designed with Linda’s passion fill up the majority of my time, but I for nature and country gardens, will stop and swim in the afternoon combining floral and botanical prints at a nearby lake, even in winter! I’ll with a bold and rich colour palette. walk the dog for some distraction or I’ll tinker in the kitchen which is Aptly named the field and flowers next to my office, supper is always collection, the unique designs include something that happens around “Dottie’s Love” a delicate berry print, 6pm and I’ll check on any vegetables “Octavias Tangle” a bold floral print growing in my garden or greenhouse and “Ursula’s Vine” an intricate before finally succumbing to a sofa leaf print. With patterns printed on and fire in front of the television.” plush velvet and cotton fabrics, the collection that launched in April, And the future? “The house includes roman and roller blinds, renovation will keep me busy and curtains and cushions, all made to of course I have my new collection order by skilled craftsmen. Linda which is exciting. A television said: “My field and flower collection programme is currently being talked reflects both my passion for nature about and I would love to find the and interior design. In my long career time to create a new design book. there have been patterns and colour That said I love my yoga, open water palettes that come back time and time swimming and the creation of my again and this collection includes flower and vegetable garden, all a some of my favourite combinations.” huge part of who I am.

Fact File: What do you do in your leisure time? Open water swimming, gardening, cooking, yoga, painting, long distance walking, sewing. What is your favourite food and drink? Tea, of course (I’m a Yorkshire lass!) but also Pickles with a chilled wheat beer. Where is your favourite holiday destination? The Lake District, and France. Where is your favourite place in Yorkshire? Anywhere that offers the opportunity to swim. It’s partly why I adore the East Riding so much, where I now live. Pen y Ghent is a lovely scramble up to. What is your favourite gadget? A tiny handheld whisk which makes fresh mayonnaise in seconds and whisks up a quick dressing for my salad leaves and veggies, I eat salad and raw veg with everything, pretty much every day and quite often, even for breakfast. So, a vinegary dressing for my toast, my curry, even my chips and gravy is a must. What couldn’t you live without? My husband (he knows how to get me out of a computer crisis!).

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Dancing on Broadway and a love of all things spooky Images : All images thanks to Roth Read Photography-www.rothreadphotography.com

Liz Green is a broadcaster and journalist for BBC Radio Leeds, broadcasting on weekend afternoons, celebrating our county and telling its stories. There is an element of phone in, great Yorkshire guests and random dancing. It’s a West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire and South Yorkshire and North Derbyshire, Humberside occasionally, regional show. Prior to this, Liz presented Breakfast on BBC radio Leeds for five years. Since lockdown, Liz has been presenting and producing a Yorkshire Regional show at weekends on BBC Radio Leeds, BBC Radio York and BBC Radio Sheffield. Growing up in Huddersfield, Liz’s first taste of work was a Saturday job selling hippy stuff and leather bracelets before heading to university completing a degree in English Lit followed by a post graduate year at the London College of Printing in radio journalism where she discovered the University Radio Station and was immediately hooked. “Growing up I wanted to be an actor then started to think about law, but radio got a hold of me whilst studying at university, so that was it, I was hooked,” she told us. After graduating Liz began working for an independent radio production company in London, producing Michael Aspel’s show for LBC radio. Originally the London Broadcasting Company, LBC is a British phonein and talk radio station. It was the

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UKs first licensed commercial radio station and began broadcasting in 1973, just one week ahead of Capital Radio.

interview a victim of Jimmy Saville in Leeds on BBC radio and BBC TV news before the storm broke and Operation Yewtree.

Over the years radio breakfast shows Liz is a storyteller. “I love have had male presenters but Liz telling stories,” she explained. broke that taboo becoming the first “Understanding what people have woman in the BBC Local Radio achieved and why they are where to present a breakfast show solo. they are. Holding those in charge “That was in 2012, I was quite sad to account. Coming together, radio that it had taken so long for that is unique as you become part of to happen,” she explained. “Tony the fabric of someone’s life. That Blackburn was the first presenter is a huge privilege and becomes to host a breakfast show for the an ongoing conversation. We have BBC, something he went on to do lived through the recent pandemic for for six years, succeeded by Noel together, radio creates something Edmonds.” Another ‘first’ for Liz out of thin air that is magical,” she was she was the first journalist to explained. “That said, you do live

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your life in an enclosed box with a microphone. Anyone who comes into the industry needs to be aware of anti-social hours and it is hard work and dependent on good management, but I do love it.” So, what is a typical day like for Liz? “A broadcast day is an early start, research, writing and doing my homework. I can discard if the conversation takes a different direction, but I generally have the person’s story in my head. When doing a phone in, in fact for anyone in speech radio, you have to listen. It’s not about me, my opinions or ideas, it’s those of the person I am interviewing. I love a live phone-

in and an in-depth one-on-one conversation,” she told us. “I do four hours a day live on air and enjoy the music, the callers and the guests. I am quite good with bigots, racists and homophobes,” she said, “I believe we all have an opinion but keep it clean.”

the Broadway Theatre. I had taken my tap shoes with me and during rehearsal, I did a tap dance. I saw it as a celebration of life as I had been seriously ill when diagnosed with diabetes six months earlier, I did get a standing ovation, but the choir are very kind,” she laughed.

In addition to her radio work, Liz speaks as a guest for various organisations and hosts award ceremonies such as the Yorkshire Women of Achievement for Wheatfield’s Hospice in Leeds which ran for years before the pandemic. “It’s a joy and a pleasure to be part of the community here in Yorkshire and I believe it is part of my job, I really love it.” Liz is in fact guest speaker at the Yorkshire Businesswoman Christmas event, as one of our valued ambassadors, taking place at Dakota Leeds on 3 December.

Also, whilst in America, Liz stood on Death Row in Florida and spoke to those waiting to be executed. “I stood in the execution chamber and saw how it is done. This was for a documentary with a Yorkshire MP who is pro a return of the Death Penalty and one young man from Leeds whose Mother and Brother were murdered, He was against capital punishment. I also spent time in the legal brothels of Nevada, to explore if legislation would stop women here in Yorkshire being pimped and murdered,” she continued. “My Mum saw a documentary about one of the brothels on television about a month after I returned called me up to ask, ‘did that go on whilst you were there?’ “My answer, ‘yes Mum but I didn’t go in with them!” Liz also took two Yorkshire teenagers, one a Muslim, the other a Jew to Auschwitz to witness history.

“I want to go on and make documentaries. I have won awards internationally for some that I have made and received national recognition for those and my daily broadcasting, I suppose it’s that storytelling thing, exceptional stories from ordinary people, but I love broadcasting and want to continue to do that, we should never doubt our abilities.” Away from broadcasting, Liz has a very full life, for example, how many can say they have tap danced on Broadway? She explains: “I am part of the community choir, Inspiration which is based in Yorkshire and the North East. They sing and I do the narration. We were invited to New York where the company performed at Carnegie Hall and at

Closer to home, Liz broadcast live from Birstall for the breakfast show on BBC Radio Leeds, the day after the murder of MP Jo Cox, alongside the world’s media. “I went back a week later where there was just us, no satellite trucks, no crowds or international or national reporters with cameras and microphones, just us. That’s what it means broadcasting to a community,” she explained. “We were verbally abused and threatened, we were an all-woman team, but we managed.”

Fact File: What do you do in your leisure time? I love the theatre, reading, shopping and travel and anything spooky. Where is your favourite restaurant? ? It’s in Cannes in Le Souquet, the old town. In the UK, anything Italian. What is your favourite food and drink? I don’t drink, I gave it up when I became Type 2 Diabetic. I don’t miss it, but I do miss chocolate. Where is your favourite holiday destination? France and New York. Where is your favourite place in Yorkshire? Oh, a tough one. I love The Piece Hall because it is beautiful and such a beacon of history and regeneration. I love York, anywhere with junk and antique shops, Elsecar Heritage Centre in Barnsley for example. What couldn’t you live without? What couldn’t you live without? Friends, my family, Netflix (documentaries) and my iPhone and mascara. I do have to live without my beloved Nan, Marion Chadwick who died in May. I would very much like to thank her for all she did for me. We miss her.

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Helen Knowles Helen Knowles is the director of income generation at Wakefield Hospice, a position she has held for more than 30 years, originally joining as a rookie fundraiser 33 years ago. As you would imagine after three decades, Helen has a wealth of knowledge in all aspects of fundraising, retail, volunteering and marketing and over the years has been involved in many organisations and committees. She currently sits on the legacy foresight in-memory steering group. Although some funding for the hospice comes from the local PCT, this equates to less than 30% of what is needed to keep the hospice and its vital services running, that means the remainder has to come from the so over the community leaving years I have H e l e n a n d her done a tandem f u n d r a i s i n g and skydive, run retail teams facing the New York the daunting task Marathon, of raising over £4 abseiled, million. trekked to the

base camp of Everest...

Helen, who originally started a nursing course when she left education and her team, stage a number of events over the course of the year and she is the first to put her name forward for challenging events. “I am a firm

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believer that I won’t ask anyone to do anything that I wouldn’t do myself,” she explained, “so over the years I have done a tandem skydive, run the New York Marathon, abseiled, trekked to the base camp of Everest, walked across part of the Sahara Desert, cycled through Death Valley in the Nevada Desert and Rajasthan in India! After all these years, I am still overwhelmed by the generosity and support of the local business community. So how does Helen relax? “I am very active and enjoy walking and cycling when time permits. I love spending time with my husband Phil as well as my children and grandchildren, we also enjoy holidays at our home in Spain, something I intend to do more of when I retire!

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Life changing challenges led from photography to travel journalism Lynne Coates knows very well that well-worn cliché, ‘life is a journey’ which she believes applies to her career, although it didn’t really begin until she was well into mid-life. Leaving school at 16 with few qualifications, Yorkshire Businesswoman member Lynne went to college and completed a basic secretarial course. “My first job was as a secretary at Leeds University, a great place to work, not least for the social life,” she explained. “In fact, it’s also where I met my husband.” But an exciting future lay ahead when Lynne saw an advert to work in the Yorkshire Television studios in Leeds. “I applied, and to my delight, they gave me a job. It was definitely one of the most desirable places to work in those days,” she explained, “we had such great fun. I was never stuck in one particular job, as they often moved staff around and I was asked to do all sorts of things from appearing as an extra, to voiceovers to typing scripts. Meeting and mingling with celebrities were all part of the job and I have many memories of working with actors who went on to become household names.” However, marriage and children were always on Lynne’s agenda and after two years she left her job to get married and have

children. “I remained mostly a stay-at-home mum, taking just a few part time jobs until my kids were teenagers, then I began my own small business, working from home,” she continued. “I began buying costume jewellery, sourcing original collections from exhibitions and selling to friends, very soon building a network of customers just through word of mouth. This led me into fashion, I really enjoyed discovering new up-coming designers, visiting fashion shows, especially during London Fashion Week, it was an exciting time and my little home boutique quickly grew.” Five years on and with her children now flown the nest, Lynne thought it was time for new challenge. “My husband bought me a SLR camera for my birthday and I found a new interest in photography. It quickly became an all-consuming hobby and when a special anniversary holiday to Africa came around and I had amazing opportunities to photograph wildlife close up, I realised I wanted to take my new hobby to another level.” So, Lynne undertook a GCSE photography Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

course at Park Lane College, followed by an A Level. Encouraged by her tutor, she was delighted to be accepted on a photography degree course at Bradford College, at 47 becoming a full-time student. “To my astonishment, I was awarded a first-class honours degree,” she added, “so I decided to continue with my studies at De Montfort University in Leicester, where I gained an MA with distinction.” The work she had undertaken for her MA led Lynne into producing documentaries based around cultural life. “I was awarded an Arts Council England grant to take part in a unique photography project in the Middle East. Based in Israel, I worked at a co-existence centre where Israeli and Palestinian women and teenagers were taught to use the camera

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as a way of communicating and photographer for a while, I was understanding each other’s cultures,” thrilled to see my work published she continued. “It was a privilege to regularly,” she enthused. “Travel be a part of such an innovative and was always something I wanted to rewarding project and the images I do and of course wherever I went, took featured in an award-winning I took photographs. exhibition which toured throughout the UK.” Something then came “However, I realised that in order to along that changed Lynne’s life. carve out a career in travel from my photography, I would need to add a Lynne was asked by a friend who travel report to the destinations, so I was setting up a new ‘Hello’ style began writing and creating my own magazine in Spain if she would do travel features. For the last fifteen some photography for him. This years I have been producing travel involved shoots with celebrities features for a variety of publications in very glamourous locations. “I both nationally and regionally. really enjoyed this kind of portrait photography, so with these “Until the recent pandemic, I new skills, I became a celebrity was travelling monthly on press

trips, visiting many wonderful destinations, meeting interesting people and experiencing new challenges. Hard work has got me where I am, I believe anyone can achieve their goals in life. I have recently celebrated a milestone birthday where some might think I would slow down. Whilst travel might be on hold for now, it has given me time to reflect on past trips and research new ones and I can’t wait for my next new challenge, wherever that might be!” Lynne is a member of The British Guild of Travel Writers and you can follow her travels on Instagram @ lynnecoatesphoto

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Luxury break that’s super pet friendly

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Finding the right balance between work and play Growing up, Rachel Dilley wanted to be a paediatric nurse. She has always been passionate about looking after and helping others, so she was destined to care for people in some capacity. Leaving school Rachel missed out Fact File: on University. “Further education Children: wasn’t encouraged in my family,” I have two boys, Matthew she told us, “but despite that, I who is 26 and Nathan who is 24 had a passion to learn which led me to study at Calderdale College What car do you drive? when I was sixteen for two years, Vauxhall achieving a BTEC in Health and What do you do in your Science. Shortly after, I began my leisure time? career as a dental nurse.” Walk and listen to music After leaving college, Rachel began working in the dental industry and has spent her entire 18-year professional career within it, continuing to learn and grow. “I am director of the Town Hall Group, which has grown out of the success of Town Hall Dental which was started in 2008 by our principal dentist Dr Imran Rangzeb. I have worked with Imran for 18-years, our Town Hall Group journey started 13-years ago,” she explained. “Dentistry has always been a very open and inclusive industry regardless of gender, although there are the usual goals outside of work as a woman, such as taking time off to raise a family, but as with any industry, to succeed you need determination and drive. One of the exciting things we have done with that determination over the years was start our own television channel, Town Hall TV. We wanted to do this to highlight the amazing

Where is your favourite restaurant?

I don’t think I could pick one favourite, because I love visiting new places and trying a variety of different foods.

What is your favourite food and drink?

My personal favourite at the moment is Turkish food

Where is your favourite holiday destination?

I wouldn’t say I’m particularly well-travelled, but I love the sunshine whenever I can get it. I’ve had lots of nice experiences in Tenerife.

Where is your favourite place in Yorkshire?

The Dales is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful spots in the country. Ribblehead Viaduct, Hawes and the Three Peaks are all absolutely stunning.

What is your favourite gadget? My phone.

What couldn’t you live without?

My faith and my children

people in our industry and exceptional local people,” she explained. So, what does a typical day look like for Rachel? “It’s full on as soon as I wake up,” she said. “I go for a long walk every morning, Further before heading education to my day at wasn’t headquarters. As encouraged chief operating in my family,” o f f i c e r, I a m she told us, responsible for “but despite ensuring our daythat, I had to-day operations a passion to run sm o o t hl y, learn... overseeing all the organisations in our group and making sure they have all the resources they need to operate effectively. I spearhead the development, design and improvement structures throughout the group and often we have filming after work, but the rest of the time is spent caring for my family. “Going forward it is my intention to grow our group, adding new dental practices and creating new jobs within the team. We want the opportunity for more people to experience our positivity, care giving and career paths. I think if I was to start my career again, I would be more structured from an early age, but would always continue to work hard. It is important however to find something you love to do outside of work, for me that is going on regular walks and listening to music.” Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

Photo by Michael Burrows from Pexels

Yorkshire family launch e-commerce website to help combat fast fashion A family-owned business has recognised a sustainable shift in consumer attitude and purchasing habits and has now launched an e-commerce website to promote the notion of circular fashion through its buying and selling services in secondhand luxury fashion. Closet Porter was founded by Jan Moncrieff, a pre-loved expert with

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nearly twenty years’ experience in selling second-hand designer fashion. Based in Leeds, Closet Porter is an online e-commerce website where consumers can buy and sell second hand luxury fashion clothing and accessories from some of the world’s most highly sought after brands, such as Chanel, Gucci, Dior and more. Jan’s son, Alistair is the main investor for the business and has plans that will see him invest over two hundred

thousand pounds in the next twelve months to help scale the company. The brand’s ethos is centred around the growingly popular circular fashion movement. With eightyfive percent of all textiles going to landfill every year, Closet Porter is on a mission to help promote the idea of circular fashion by extending the lifespan of iconic, luxury garments and accessories. Before becoming an online platform, the team behind it owned several boutiques in North Yorkshire stocking items from high-end fashion brands that were often hard to come by in the UK. Whilst the business was growing Jan noticed a gap in the market footfall would peak every Friday when customers would purchase a new item to be worn once for an occasion over the weekend. This saw seven boutiques across Yorkshire introduce a business Photo by EVG Culture from Pexels model structured around selling pre-loved fashion whereby the store Users looking to sell on the would offer to buy back unwanted website have the option of being a clothing from customers in order “Standard Seller”, whereby the seller to sell on again. Over fifteen years is responsible for all aspects of the later the team took the business selling process including product model online. photography, copywriting and cleaning. In this instance Closet Porter Luxury fashion lovers can shop takes a twenty percent commission confidently, as the brand adheres fee on the listing. Alternatively, sellers to strict practices to ensure all with less time on their hands can opt goods are authentic and in the for the “VIP Seller” service which best possible condition. All goods requires minimal effort from the are manually checked by its in- seller themselves. As a VIP seller house team of experts. This process user have the ability to send their involves the team examining the unwanted luxury fashion items to garment stitching, serial numbers, Closet Porter’s HQ. The in-house hardware, fonts and fabrics and team then handles the selling highlights any flaws that could point process from start to finish, including to potential counterfeit issues. the product listing, photography,

copywriting and cleaning of the product. In return for this bespoke concierge service, the brand takes a thirty percent commission fee from the item cost once sold. Speaking of the firm’s ethos and ambitions, Jan says, “The idea was born to help promote the idea of a curated wardrobe. As a whole, people are beginning to shop more consciously, and we want to help spread that message. A future ambition of ours is to introduce a rental service to the site, meaning we can become consumers’ trusted site for getting a luxury fashion fix in a more environmentally friendly approach.”

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With more than eighty percent of women experiencing nausea during pregnancy, Julia Dalbert-Pusey and husband Matty Johnson embarked on a mission to help women conquer morning sickness, launching their firm Myrtle & Maude.

That was five years ago, today the company offers a plant-based product range for queasy pregnancy tummies, including organic herbal tea, acupressure wristbands and vitamin B6 peppermint bonbons. Julia was first inspired to develop an antimorning sickness solution whilst working on a luxury yacht where she regularly helped seasick passe nge rs with natural re medies and acupressure wristbands. “I realised that a significant amount of orders was from expectant mothers and after some research spotted a gap in the market,” she said. This tied in with her passion for natural, organic ingredients using values handed down by the couple’s grandmothers Myrtle &

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Maude. Since launching Julia has seen sales rocket by 700 percent. “Both Matty and I grew up connected to the natural world around us,” she explained. “Fresh produce from the family allotment always made it onto our table and my mother who is a retired nurse, always tried

to cure our ailments with natural remedies. M at ty’s grandpare nts lived off their farm in Ireland. We still have an allotment today that we have tended for over 40 years. “With this in mind, our recipes

draw upon the soothing and settling powers of plants and herbs with as little impact on the earth as possible, which is why our products are certified organic,” she added. “We love knowing that our natural products are beneficial in helping women through the challenges that pregnancy and new motherhood presents. “Starting with just morning sickness products, we now have a product range from conception, Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

morningsickness and labour to breastfeeding. We have plans to soon extend our range to herbal teas for menopause and PMS,” she added. “This will open up our target market to a broader age range and means we can support women’s reproductive health through other important stages in their lives.” The couple try to be as sustainable as possible within their small business that is based in Oakwood Leeds, with most products certified vegan, organic and cruelty free. All the tea comes in multi-use, plastic free and biodegradable tea bags and all sourced in the UK. Packaging is mostly recyclable or compostable and the couple aim to improve this as they grow further. “Once a product is developed, I create the artwork and branding in-house, I really enjoy being able to use my creative skills when developing products,” continued Julia.

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“We were shortlisted for start-up of the year from the Organic governing body ‘The Soil Association’ and I was chosen to participate in SEPHORA’s six-month programme for female founders,” she added. “Our business was also selected to be on ITVs television programme with Karen Brady where we were followed for the first year of setting up and more recently, I was shortlisted for The Great British Entrepreneur awards.” Before starting Myrtle & Maud, Julia had worked in the fashion industry, working alongside such brands as Zac Pose in New York, Marios Schwab, Mui Mui and Michiko Koshino and studied in top fashion institutions including London College of Fashion also completing a master’s in creative Couture in Paris. “I owned a high-end fashion label that was stocked by John Lewis, but the fashion industry was hard, and I decided it wasn’t for me,” she concluded.

As soon as she was old enough, Chloe McNeill wanted to work. She washed pots, stacked shelves and even worked on a butcher’s wagon at a market for a while. The job that worried her parents though was her part time job whilst at University, working in a shoe shop “I already owned over 100 pairs by then,” Chloe explained.

Talking about Christmas all year round Yorkshire Businesswoman recently caught up with one of our valued members, Halifax BID manager Chloe McNeill who shares with readers her career journey so far.

Chloe loved her time at University, although her studies were not directly related to her career she now tells us she wouldn’t change it for the world. “I went to St Martins College in Ambleside in the beautiful Lake District. What a gorgeous place it is to live and as a country girl, it was perfect for me.

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I studied primary teaching, with children’s literature as a specialism, so as much as I don’t get to use these skills now, you’d be amazed how many times I draw on my teaching experience in my working life,” said Chloe, who has recently started back at University studying for a Masters in Place Management and Leadership. After leaving University Chloe’s first job was working in a bank. “I didn’t know what I wanted to do but knew that teaching wasn’t for me. I would thoroughly recommend working a year or two in banking to anyone, it taught me so much about finances and the ‘grown-up’ world of money,” she explained. “When I was growing up my first thoughts were to become an actor and since childhood have been an active member of my local theatre but did decide relatively early on that it wouldn’t really be a career option for me, although I still love the idea. If you’d have asked my parents what I wanted to be growing up, they would have no doubt said a princess,” she laughed. Chloe started her role as BID manager on the first day that Halifax BID launched, 1 April 2017. “It was fantastic to be able to start right at the beginning,” she said “I feel like I have been on such a journey with the project watching it grow. Before the BID, I moved around quite a bit, so I’ve never really done the whole ‘climbing the ladder’ thing, although I do believe that every role I have had, had prepared me for this one. I am aware of being a fairly young female in a senior role, and although I wouldn’t say it has been difficult to succeed, there has

Fact File: What do you do in your leisure time? :

Over the last year or so, I rediscovered my love of reading. Even though I kept working throughout the pandemic, I managed to read about 50 books in 2020! I also made the most of the gorgeous weather and went out for lots of long walks with the dogs. When we’re not in the middle of a global pandemic, I spend most of my free time at my local theatre, Todmorden Hippodrome. They’re my second family and I can’t wait to be back there.

What is your favourite food and drink?

My favourite food is either steak or macaroni cheese! If I’m out for drinks, I love a Cosmopolitan but I’m also a complete chocoholic and struggle to get through a day without a hot chocolate.

Where is your favourite holiday destination?

I love Italy, something I’ve got from my mum. I’ve visited a few times and always want to go back. More locally, I’ll always take any opportunity to go back to the Lakes, and to Ambleside.

Where is your favourite place in Yorkshire?

My home. I’m lucky enough to have grown up and still live up in the hills in Calderdale and it really is the most wonderful place. The views are spectacular, we’re often above the clouds and it is most definitely my happy place.

What couldn’t you live without?

Obviously, my family and my friends, if this last year has taught us anything, it’s the value of relationships. Linked to that, the one item I can’t live without is my phone, it sounds awful but it’s so important to keep in touch with people near or far, and it’s my lifeline for that.

ork sh i reB u si ne s sWom a n 92 Y92

been times I’ve been aware of being female and younger, adds pressure in the role sometimes. I have to say that I am privileged to be surrounded by lots of very strong female role models, who show what is possible and remind me that I can succeed,” she continued. “I would like to do more in the future to celebrate some of the great female role models we have in Halifax and the wider Calderdale, highlighting the variety of roles and show that being female you don’t need to sacrifice anything to succeed. “I remind myself frequently that I work in a job that is full of variety, always working on something different and that I get to talk about Christmas all year round,” she laughed. “There are not really any downsides to my job except the role can sometimes feel lonely and isolating. Just before the pandemic struck, I started a BID managers network of local BIDs and it has been a lifesaver throughout lockdown. It is great to be able to speak with others in a similar role and know that you are not alone. I would like to get more businesses involved, I feel like I’m coming up with ideas and hoping people like them, it would be great to have more input from businesses in Halifax. “Future plans are very short term. I’m feeling confident for a positive result in our upcoming BID ballot with a really good turnout, I want businesses to be excited about the next five years of BID. I’m really looking forward to our next term, Halifax has come a long way in recent years, and I am looking forward to seeing where it can go as a town and what we can achieve.

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The value of IT equipment in your business versus its cost B y : T i m G u e s t - m a n a g i n g d i re c t o r C o n t e d i a - w w w. c o n t e d i a . c o m

In the last 25 years there can be no doubt that most businesses have used and relied on the humble PC throughout. In fact, in a typical business that uses IT every day, there’s really no excuse for employee using a PC, however disinterested in ‘computers’ they may be at home, to remain ignorant of fundamental Windows (or MacOS) and Microsoft Office skills.

However, it remains a mystery to me why businesses continually undervalue the desktop and notebook PCs within their organisations. When it comes to purchasing new or replacement machines, all too often buyers seek the rock-bottom prices of woefully inadequate machines typically found on the shelves of our high-street electrical stores,

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rather than considering what a good investment for their business really looks like. Let’s be honest, if our businesses were suddenly denied access to our office PCs, regardless of what software we may ultimately run – from typical Office-type applications to enterprise and customer CRM and ERP solutions – our companies would grind to a halt and fail. So, why then do so many still want to pay the absolute minimum for a business PC, whilst thinking nothing of owning a smartphone that costs upwards of £500, or perhaps driving a well-earned status symbol that, without a doubt, will cost more to own and run than it ever gives back in terms of true value?

(and still is) far more benefit to be gained by paying for a specification of PC that will work swiftly and reliably based on how it will be used, versus saving one to two hundred pounds at point of purchase for a machine that performs poor from day one.

As usual, it comes down to our perception of ‘value’. We often place a higher perceived value on the things we want versus the things we need. We do this from the earliest of ages when a new toy catches our eye - or in current culture when the next free-to-download game (with ‘in-app purchases’, of course) is advertised. Today, practically every PC you can buy will come as standard with a solid-state disk (SSD), which improves actual performance drastically over the outgoing hard disks that used spinning platens and a read/write head that had to move backwards and forwards across the surface of the disks to locate the data being requested. My company took the approach many years ago that our customers would only be quoted branded PCs with upgraded SSDs, 8GB of memory (i.e., RAM) and a 3-year manufacturer’s on-site warranty. This was our proposal to customers as to what represented good value for money when replacing their ageing PCs. For the typical business, there was

For the average office staff there’s nothing to be gained by paying for an ‘all singing, all dancing’ processor specification married to cheap circuitry, a meagre amount of RAM and a vast 1TB, old-school, hard disk. The processor would never break in to a sweat running Microsoft Word and Excel, but large files would be hindered by the amount of memory into which running applications and files are being held and the slow disk would compound issues by taking a long time to read or write data, especially when the RAM is full and would need to ‘offload’ some of its contents back to the disk as a slower but more capacious area to call upon as needed. Since a regular business PC is often expected to have a 3+ year lifespan – perhaps 5 years – the timing of this advice may still be relevant to you or offer a different perspective on how you perceive the value of your IT purchases. Invest all you need to have that business-critical software installed and customised but give your business a fighting chance of reaching the potential to be efficient by arming staff with the basic tools that are fit for the real purpose. Here are our suggestions when seeking best value from your PCs: •

Don’t compare cheap highstreet machines with brands

•

and models specifically intended for reliable business use; When purchasing, unless for a role where high performance is key (e.g., 3D CAD/CAM or photo/media editing), forget the idea of ‘cheapest will do’. Buy PCs that have an entry to mid-level processor, but definitely plenty of RAM (e.g., 8GB or above) and an SSD – remember, if your business stores data on a server or in the cloud, then there’s no point having local storage in excess of 256GB; For the sake of around thirtypounds, add a manufacturer’s 3-year on-site warranty. Components evolve and go ‘end-of-life’ so quickly nowadays that it pays to lay the problem of sourcing and repairing a faulty PC to the manufacturer; and Stop thinking in terms of one monitor per PC. If you haven’t already experienced the benefit of having two monitors side-by-side (or one of the newer ultra-wide displays), then you must. If you already have two monitors but your colleagues don’t, why? Having proper visibility of two or more applications simultaneously is so much more efficient. For the sake of the cost of a monitor, move everyone on to two as a standard – three if their role would benefit!

Send your questions or suggestions to editor@ topicuk.co.uk

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Autumn virtual Gliterary Lunch Programme Gliterary Lunches are delighted to confirm their Autumn programme of virtual lunches - and what a stellar line-up it is. Sign up to hear from three best-selling, awardwinning, page-turning writers who have plenty to say.

Heather Morris – 14 October Heather is the best-selling author of Tattooist of Auschwitz. She will be beaming in from Australia to talk on publication day of her latest novel, Three sisters.

To book: https://gliterarylunches.com/event/octobergliterary-lunch-hour/

Louise Candlish – 18 November The Heights offers everything you could want from a novel, tragedy, obsession, revenge and love. There is no wonder her books are being adapted into film. Cleverly written, addictive reading. To book: https://gliterarylunches.com/event/novembergliterary-lunch-hour

Sebastian Faulks – 2 December Critically and commercially acclaimed, Sebastian Faulks is one of our favourite storytellers. Snow Country, a sweeping l o v e s to r y i s t h e b o o k h e a l w ay s wanted to write. He never disappoints.

To book: https://gliterarylunches.com/event/ december-gliterary

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Community Foundation Wakefield District welcomes Claire Sutherley as a Trustee

T h e C o m m u n i t y Fo u n d a t i o n Wakefield District, is delighted to announce that Claire Sutherley is the newest recruit to join the Board of Trustees. Claire, a determined fundraiser, will be a tremendous support to the charity as she has a wealth of business experience after running a successful family security business for 25 years. Claire said, “I feel honoured to be the latest addition to the Community Foundation team and am looking forward to playing an active role in future support for those who need it the most within our district.” David Dinmore, Chairman of Trustees said,

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“The Community Foundation Wakefield District continues its efforts to strengthen and diversify the membership of its Board of Trustees. I am thrilled that Claire Sutherley will be adding her experience and expertise to that of the current Board members. I welcome her wholeheartedly, as the Foundation expands and enhances its work to meet the needs of those suffering hardship in Wakefield and District, especially in the aftermath of the Covid pandemic.” The Community Foundation has been supporting the most vulnerable people in the Wakefield District since 2008. Over the past 13 years it has distributed over £1.75 million to 2,900 organisations and individuals across the Metropolitan District which has had a direct impact on over 30,000 people.

unique flavour profile that AB Gold offers. Being a Yorkshire rum we’re really passionate about sharing our story and rum across the North. Embracing our friendship and encouraging others to come together to experience a premium rum that’s creating a statement in the rum revolution.” Over the next couple of years, Dave and Alex will be working hard to share AB Gold across the county and showing Yorkshire that our rum is one of quality and gives a tasting experience like no other.

A passion for the finest of rum Started by two friends with a passion for the finest rums, AB Gold Rum launched in December 2020.

It is carefully blended using only the finest traditional pot-stilled, oak-barrel aged Jamaican rums, made from virgin Caribbean sugar cane. Aged up to 7 years, AB Gold is 100% natural product (no additives, flavourings or colourings) and has been perfected using Yorkshire spring water. It’s unique intensity of flavour embodies distinctive rich caramel tones, mild influences of vanilla and accents of fruit.

years’ experience travelling to the Caribbean drinking some of the finest rums in the world, so when he tried the AB Gold blend, he said it was one of the best he’s ever tasted. At that point we knew we had to take it to market. “So far we’ve converted many non-rum drinkers to enjoying AB Gold and that’s down to the

However, Yorkshire Businesswomen members won’t have to wait that long before they try this delicious new rum as they have kindly agreed to join us and provide a welcome drink for our ladies attending our networking event on 10 September at Dakota Leeds. Make sure you don’t miss out, if you haven’t reserved a place, do email and confirm you will be joining us hello@yorkshirebusinesswoman. co.uk

AB Gold’s unique flavour profile gives it versatility and can be enjoyed over ice, with your favourite mixer or one of their tailor-made cocktails. The founders, Dave and Alex friends for over 6 years since meeting in the rail industry, share a joint passion for rum. “We wanted to see if there would be an opportunity to bring a new rum to the market that had something special to it,” said Alex, “Something with a personality and soul. Dave has more than 20 Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

TILEYARD NORTH IS OFFICES STUDIOS EVENTS FLEXIBLE WORKSPACE COMMUNITY CREATIVITY MUSIC TECH FILM ART

THE NEW CREATIVE DESTINATION OF THE NORTH FOR ENQUIRES AND NEWS VISIT TILEYARDNORTH.CO.UK

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short breaks with a longer one at lunchtime. It could just be that you go and fetch yourself a glass of water to rehydrate, or close your eyes and do some deep breathing. 3.Exercise

It’s really important that we take some form of exercise every day. Exercise lifts your mood and gives you energy. It also increases our physical fitness and reduces the risk of chronic health problems. We spend too much time sitting still, so be sure to include exercise time in your daily diary – and stick to it! 4.Unplug during non-work hours

ways to avoid burnout in business B y: R os

J o nes

It’s certainly challenging times still for many, both in the business world and in people’s personal life. Stresses are high and many business owners are burnt out and tired with added pressures.

So how can we avoid burnout? 1.Keep organised

How you manage your time is how you manage yourself. Set yourself realistic goals for the week ahead and list all the activities that need to be done to achieve those goals.

Everything else needs to go into your diary in a way that gives you a clear structure for your day. Put the most important tasks in first and be realistic about how long each will take to complete. Smaller, less important activities can be fitted around the critical jobs. Most importantly: stick to this diary!

Delegate where you can, ensuring that those to whom you delegate know exactly how you need it doing and when it needs to be done by.

2.Take breaks Make time in your diary for

If we work from home, it can feel hard sometimes to separate our personal and business lives. To avoid burnout, we need to set up boundaries and be able to switch off from business. A great way to do that is to find a creative hobby. Getting creative is also a fun way to get the right-hand side of our brains engaged which is part of our brain much neglected these days. 5.Ask for help Being in business can be tough and lonely at times. Sometimes it feels like there’s no-one to talk to about the challenges and ups and downs. Keeping all your stress to yourself is downright dangerous – and unnecessary. Get professional help, reach out to a good friend, join a group of like-minded people and build relationships.

Ros Jones rosjones@ businesswellbeing.club

Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 101

Thrive Law and Yorkshire Businesswoman solve your legal problems Each edition Yorkshire Businesswoman and founder of Thrive Law Jodie Hill are happy to answer questions for our readers on the subject of law. Particularly employment law. For obvious reasons names are withheld unless we are requested to publish them. In short, the answer to your question regarding sickness whilst on holiday, is yes, they would be entitled to sick pay. Wherever an employee becomes sick on holiday, whether through Covid or not, they are entitled to sick leave. In fact, on return from holiday, if that holiday was damaged by sickness, employees can usually request that they take their annual leave days back, and the absence is instead treated as sickness. This is no different with the pandemic, unless there is a specific policy which says otherwise. Question : If an employee is employed under a standard contract of employment which has no clause in relation to COVID-19, would the employee be entitled to standard sick pay if they become COVID-19 positive whilst on a holiday abroad during their annual leave from work? Would they be entitled to sick pay if they have to stay longer in the country abroad to self-isolate due to becoming positive to COVID-19? I was discussing this with my mother, and we had different opinions, so I wanted to know what the current law on this is out of personal interest. Answer : This is such an interesting area as, obviously, traditional approaches to sickness and holiday have changed quite a lot as a result of the pandemic and ongoing isolation requirements.

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In the same way that instructed isolation can be treated as sick leave in the UK, we would have thought that isolation in other countries would be treated the same as self-isolation in the UK would be, meaning that the employee would still qualify for sick leave. Where the guidance varies is on isolation on return; if a person has to isolate or quarantine when they return from abroad, this is much more open to the employer. The Government has explicitly stated that those persons don’t qualify for Statutory Sick Pay, which extends to mean that this absence is not automatically entitled to be treated as sickness absence. Instead, an employer can choose to treat this as sickness absence but are not obliged to do so, and they can instead arrange that it is treated as further annual leave or unpaid leave. Question: Can my employer reduce my salary because I’m working from home?

Answer: This is a really interesting question, and one that has come up a lot lately! An anonymous minister for the Govt said that civil servants should have lesser salaries if they WFH. Google is reducing salaries in the US for those who WFH. The argument is that, as people aren’t commuting, buying lunch etc, and their expenses with their job have gone down, they’ve effectively had a pay rise. So, should they have their salaries reduced? At this point, it’s relevant to point out that, the business minister has expressly said that civil servants won’t have their salaries reduced at this stage, and Google don’t have these proposals in the UK. But that doesn’t mean it might be proposed in some cases. Whether employers are legally allowed to cut the pay of WFH workers is dependent on the contract of employment. Does the contract allow for variations? If so, then they may be able to vary. If there’s no contractual right, they can still vary but would need consent to the changes and would need to consult. There is also the option of fire and rehire – this is much more of a risk for short service employees. There is also an argument it may be more reasonable to change if the salary clearly takes into account (for example) London weighting or commuting, if those factors are no longer applicable. Perhaps most importantly, just because an employer can do something, doesn’t mean they

should. Arguably, if the employees are doing the same work, same workload, same hours, there’s no logic to the pay being reduced as it’s the same value. In fact, the reduction could be unlawful deduction of wages, or indirect disability or sex discriminations. So, employers should tread carefully here!

when you are required to work, or changes to your place of work (for example, working wholly or partly from home). These are examples, but there are very few limits as to what you could request by way of variation. You can’t make a statutory request if you’ve already made a request in the past 12 months.

The main reason we’re unlikely to see such reductions for working from home really is because of recruitment; it wouldn’t incentivise applications if job hunters are looking for flexible work. The other reason is because of the risks, as above, of discrimination allegations.

The first place to look is going to be the Staff Handbook for the Flexible Working Policy; a policy is in place, this will clearly identify the process for you to follow, and your employer may even have a specific form for you to fill in requesting your change. If your employer does not have a policy in place, and there is no specific form to complete, then you should make sure the application is in writing, dated, refer to the statute and specify what changes you want and when you want them to be effective.

Question: I’ve really enjoyed working from home recently. I don’t think it makes me any less productive and, in fact, the feedback is that I’m working better than ever. The company wants us to go back into the office, but can I ask that I keeping working from home? Answer: In short, yes, you can always informally request flexible working. In addition, any employee with 26 weeks of service with the same employer has the right to request to work flexibly under statute; you don’t have to be a parent or carer. ‘Flexible Working’ means altering the way employee’s work. ‘Flexible Working’ means altering the way you work. This could include changes to the hours you work (for example, compressing them, annualising them or changing to part-time or termtime only), a change to the times

When a request is made under the statute, the employer must follow specific rules. They must consider the application, they must deal within it within a specific time frame, and they can only reject the request for one of eight statutory reasons. You can also appeal any rejection and potential bring claims in the Tribunal if there is a breach of the statutory process. This is why this route is much more secure than any informal arrangement or request. We have a wider FAQ on Covid, isolation, sick leave at: https://www. thrivelaw.co.uk/2020/03/24/ coronavirus-faqs/ which should hopefully answer any questions which you may have. If that resource doesn’t help, get in touch at Jodie.hill@thrivelaw.co.uk and we’ll happily assist further.

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No pussyfooting about with the Puma By :Gr a ham

Co u r t n e y

M o t o r i ng

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C o r resp o nd e n t

Well, here’s a first. I’ve never had a car which has a hole in the boot floor... Correction. I have had a car with a hole in the boot floor, except that the hole shouldn’t have been there. It’s what happens when rust sets in. Thankfully modern cars don’t rust to the extent that bits fall off after only a couple of years.

because it gets satellite navigation, air con, Bluetooth, DAB radio, rear parking sensors, powered windows and mirrors, cruise control and a smart 8-inch colour touchscreen. There’s an impressive list of safety equipment as standard too.

Anyway, it was much to my surprise to discover that the latest Ford Puma really does have a hole in the boot….on purpose. The idea is that if you have muddy wellies, filthy coats or a dog that’s been in the river or perhaps you’ve been to the tip, you can rinse off the boot floor and then remove a bung to let the dirty water drain away.

If you want to make the Puma stand out, go for the ST-Line trim which gets a body kit, bigger alloys, sports seats and tuned suspension. If you’re a keen driver, go for this one because although the ride is a tad on the firm side, it handles really well.

And if the seats start to look a bit grubby, well just unzip the covers and put them in the washing machine. Why did nobody else think of that? The Puma is great to drive. This comes as no surprise because it has the same underpinnings as the brilliant Fiesta. In a nutshell, Ford has taken the Fiesta, given it a compact SUV body, made sure it has five doors, plenty of interior space and a stack of standard equipment. There are 5 levels of trim…Titanium, ST-Line, ST-Line X and fully loaded ST-Line Vignale. The performance model, Puma ST, is at the top of the range. Most folk will be perfectly happy with the entry level Titanium

Under the bonnet, every Puma, apart from the top of the range ST, gets a 1.0 litre petrol engine available in three states of tuning. There’s no diesel. The ST has a 1.5 litre engine. The one we like is the entry level 123bhp engine with mild hybrid assistance that improves performance without affecting economy. 0-60 takes 9.8 seconds but, go easily and you’ll crack 50mpg. That’s a great blend of performance and economy. If you want more performance go for the most powerful of the 1.0 litre units which delivers 153bhp and knocks a second off the 0-60 time. We’d also recommend the 6-speed manual box as opposed to the auto because it has a lovely feel to it. £22,165 gets you into our favourite…the 1.0 Hybrid in Titanium trim.

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Accountancy firm invests in its team with new hire A Yorkshire chartered accountancy and business advisory firm has appointed a learning and development professional as part of its ongoing investment in its people.

Kuljit Kaur, joins Hentons from a FTSE 250 listed financial lending firm, and has more than 15 years’ experience working in training, learn in g, d e v e lopm e nt a nd leadership. Managing director Peter Watson: “We have a great place to work with plenty of opportunity for progression. Kuljit’s appointment as learning and development m a n a g e r d e m o n s t ra te s o u r

continued investment in our team, as we propel the business forward. “Talented people like Kuljit, who are highly competent and motivated, are exactly the type of people we want to work with us. Her skills will be utilised across every part of our business, as we continue expanding and investing in our people. Crucially, it will benefit not only our employees, but our clients too.”

Kuljit said: “I was keen to join the team at a very exciting time for the business. Since the start of the year the firm has welcomed 17 new people and now employs 120 of some of the industry’s finest across five offices.” “Plus, with two acquisitions in recent years, and more on the horizon, there is a fantastic opportunity to unite all of its people with the same common values, behaviors and mission. The new frameworks I will be working on, will form a firm foundation from which we will continue to attract, keep and train the very best industry talent. All this combined makes this career move a fantastic opportunity in a growing and ambitious business.”

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Two things in life are guaranteed: there’s always time for tea, and there’s always room for cake. R e l a x , u n w i n d a n d i n d u l g e w i t h D a k o t a A f t e r n o o n Te a o n t h e l u x u r i o u s S a l o n P r i v é Te r r a c e o v e r l o o k i n g G r e e k S t r e e t . 0113 322 6261

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