Arun Busines Partnership Magazine - Issue 4

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magazine For the Arun Business Partnership

The Power of Partnership in the palm of your hand

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Arun’ s mov ing fo are y rward ou pa – inform rt of t he ation revolu tion?

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ISSUE 3 May 2007

OFFICIAL

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THINK YOU KNOW BUTLINS? THINK AGAIN...

10 THINGS YOU NEVER KNEW ABOUT • £40 million invested in the last 3 years has made Butlins a corporate venue • We provide the largest, all-inclusive venues with flexible event space in the UK • Accommodation for 10 to 3,000+ delegates • Professional production and stage facilities - can be used as a blank canvas or fully equipped • All events, bespoked to your specific requirements, including entertainment • Contemporary, 160 room Shoreline Hotel and new, purpose built Shoreline Conference Centre in Bognor Regis • Ideal for teambuilding, we have the highest High Ropes course in Europe at Minehead • Extensive leisure facilities - our Spa at Skegness is competition for any 4 star hotel • Free car parking for cars and coaches • Professional and experienced conference team, dedicated to ensuring the smooth running of your event

Call our conference team on 08705 011 011 events.bnbutlins@bourne-leisure.co.uk www.adifferentkindofevent.com

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One of the functions of the Arun Business Partnership is to try to act as a buffer against some of these winds of change. By working together, securing local supply chains and transferring knowledge, wisdom and experience, it is hoped that the entire economy will benefit. Small businesses will prosper, medium sized businesses will grow and large companies will secure a place on the world stage. This is the hope and the endeavour.

Spring is the time for regeneration and renewal, and there is plenty of that happening right across the District at the moment. Bognor Regis is galloping ahead with its plans now that the Regeneration Task Force is firmly in place. And, as was demonstrated by the Shifting Sands conference held in Littlehampton, the time is ripe for seaside towns to regain their rightful place in the hearts and minds of British life through careful design and great planning.

This time of year is also one for contemplation and planning. The new tax year has just begun, and companies across the region are compiling their returns. Gordon Brown’s latest Budget has suggested misery for some and jubilation for others – something that we’ve got covered inside The Cash Issue of your magazine.

The new financial year will be an exciting one for many businesses in Arun, and we’ve got in-depth financial information for you in our Cash section.

The new Arun Business Partnership website – www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk – is just about to be launched as well, giving you many opportunities to grow your business yet further. More information on this can be found on page 20-21.

And, finally, a thank you from the Business Partnership team. This publication only exists because of your support, your ideas and your input. This is your magazine for your business community; your chance to tell everyone what you do, to learn from others and do more business locally. If you’ve got a story, email it to the editor, Neil Hopkins – editor@camcentral.co.uk – or give a member of the team a ring on 0870 1900 220.

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Until the next edition of The Magazine when we’ll be considering all things environmental, all best wishes from

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The Business Partnership Team Contact details: Arun Business Partnership

Miriam Nicholls, Arun Civic Centre, Maltravers Road, Littlehampton, BN17 5LF Telephone: 01903 713436 E-mail: miriam.nicholls@arun.gov.uk

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Photography: Dave Flindall

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Publisher: Steve Cusack, Cam Publishing 0870 1900 220

Produced in April 2007 on behalf of the Arun Business Partnership

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Editor: Neil Hopkins editor@camcentral.co.uk Sales Team: Vicki Fairman, Michael Pisko, Keith Croft 0870 1900 220

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03 THE MAGAZINE

BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP

Spring supposedly has sprung. And yet, after a period of near summer-like temperatures, there was snow gently drifting across parts of Arun not all that long ago. It just goes to show that, even when you think you’re onto a sure thing, the winds can still change on you.

WELCOME

Welcome to ‘The Magazine’

BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP

INFORMATION

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Business Partnership meetings

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our regular Business Partnership meetings will now be held quarterly and will include businesses from the whole Arun area – that just means that you won’t need to decide whether you go to the Bognor Regis or Littlehampton meetings - you can meet everyone you need to in one go! By increasing their frequency, you will have many more opportunities to network with local businesses and do

business locally. If you’ve never been to a meeting before – just ask someone who has and they’re sure to tell you how much fun they are!

During the meetings, you have the opportunity to tell everyone about your business, what it is that you do, how you can help the rest of the Partnership’s members and what they can do to help you.

The meetings will still start at 5.00 p.m.

be finished by 7.00 p.m. and best of all will still be free!

The dates for the meetings this year are as follows:

• Monday 4 June at The Royal Norfolk Hotel, Bognor Regis • Monday 3 September – venue to be advised • Monday 10 December – venue to be advised

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ew for 2007 is the Arun Business Conference, which will be staged during November. This will be a significant business tool for Arun businesses as we’re planning to have a number of keynote speakers as well as break-out sessions to help you with

specific aspects of your business. Full details of the keynote speakers will be provided nearer to the event.

The breakout sessions will cover: • Finance • Green issues

• Marketing (including PR, image building and web development) • Staffing (including training, personnel development and health & safety) These sessions will take the form of an intensive Q+A with recognised experts in each field from both local and national business arenas. The topics chosen will continue those initiated by Getting to Know You and the quarterly workshops.

The sessions will be repeated throughout the day, giving you the opportunity to take part in each one.

There are a number of sponsorship opportunities open to you to help deliver the Business Conference, and your sponsorship will enable businesses across Arun to increase their knowledge and grow. Contact the team on 0870 1900 220 today to discuss the packages on offer! We will give you more details on the arrangements for the Business Conference as they become available.

The Business Conference will be held at Butlins on Wednesday 21st November.

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The last Business Partnership meeting (held at the Beachcroft Hotel in Felpham) was another cracker, and demonstrated just what the Business Partnership can do for its active members

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elping companies to do more business locally, that’s the aim of the Arun Business Partnership. And the latest Partnership development, a brand new interactive website, will help to do just that! www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk is the new online portal for all Arun Business Partnership members. Once on the site, you’ll be able to get up to speed with all of the latest news from the area, get involved with the events that are going on, publicise all of your jobs and download useful documents for your business – all for free once you’ve registered! Look out for the double page feature on pages 20 and 21 which will give you the complete low down on this new resource!

The last Business Partnership meeting (held at the Beachcroft Hotel in Felpham) was another cracker, and demonstrated just what the Business Partnership can do for its active members.

When a request went out for a placement for a work experience student, it took only moments for Adams Beeny Accountants to snap up the opportunity – and we’ve got a full report on this later in The Magazine.

Contacts were made, relationships renewed and the Partnership members kept up to date with all that’s going on locally. If you’ve never been to a Partnership meeting before, call Miriam Nicholls on 01903 713436 to find out more!

In the coming months, there are a number of exciting initiatives planned for the Partnership, many of which were detailed in the letter that was sent out to you all in February (if you haven’t had a copy, give Miriam a call and she’ll get one to you). Since then, we’ve added a Charity Golf Day to the list, giving you a chance to raise money, socialise and settle the office debate about who’s got the best swing in town! More of that later in The Magazine…

If you’re in the mood for dancing, then there’s a very special event that all Arun Business Partnership members are being invited to on Thursday 14th June at Fontwell Park. An evening of Racing and entertainment by Bee Gees Magic will ensure that your summer starts with a swing and, if you can’t wait to break out that white suit and hit the dancefloor, there are two options for getting involved:

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Option 1:

• Grandstand & Paddock Badge • 1 x FREE drink

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Cost: £15 inc VAT Option 2:

• Private area in Fontwell House Gardens – what better place to network before the racing?

• Premier Enclosure Badge • Race Day Programme • Pimms Reception • Picnic Hamper Cost - £35 inc VAT

If you’re interested, give Fontwell a call on 01243 543335.

And finally, if you’ve got any stories, news items or just want a chat about the Business Partnership, call the team on 0870 1900 220 and they’ll be delighted to answer your questions and help you get the most out of everything that’s going on.

This is your Partnership – so use it!

The next Business Partnership meeting will be held on Monday 4th June at the Royal Norfolk Hotel – put the date in your diary today!

05 THE MAGAZINE

GROWTH

AG AZIN

ABOUT THE PARTNERSHIP

the Business Partnership

BUILDING BUSINESS BUSINESS ADVISORS

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The Cash ISSUE

Cash is paramount for a small company.

Forget to manage your cash and you can say goodbye to your business. Managing cash can be a major problem for the small business, especially if you are an owner Gareth Sear manager and you are working in the business and not on it.

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he finances form an important part of your business plan, as discussed in the last issue. If ever you met with me or a Business Link Business Adviser we will have asked you about your cashflow and cashflow forecasts. Put simply, this is when cash is likely to come into and leave your business. It is important to have the planning in place around it and fully understand when you may need to introduce more cash into the business.

At times, you may come up against cash flow problems and there are many reasons for this: • Taking on financial commitments without planning and before you are ready for them – e.g. a new employee.

• Under estimating the cash needed to fund stock and work in progress.

• Failing to agree clear payment terms with customers, making your credit

control harder and leading to delays in getting payment.

• Failing to carry out adequate credit control in chasing payment.

• Rapid sales growth.

Of course there are many more, but those are a few of the main ones.

Below are some important actions to help reduce cash flow problems: : • Have a robust credit control system in place and make your customers aware of how it works. Call them before the invoice is due as a gentle reminder; don’t wait until it is late – if you aren’t keen on doing this then there are factoring companies out there who can help. Always credit check your customers before offering them a credit facility. A small outlay at this stage could save a lot of money and stress in the future.

• Slowing down your sales growth may seem drastic, but this can reduce the chance of over trading, where you may not have the cash to fulfil your orders.

This can be done through offering extended lead times to your customers.

• Don’t forget two of the more obvious ways of maximising cashflow and these are increase prices and reduce overheads. Ask yourself when you last reviewed your prices and what your competitors are charging. And how many businesses really scrutinise their overheads on a regular basis?

• There are also late payment rules that allow you to charge interest on overdue accounts. Look at www.payontime.co.uk/start_up/su_legi slation.html for further information.

Continual planning and reviewing of your cashflow is important. If you are unsure of how to do this, talk to your accountant or business adviser. Keep a very close and upto date eye on your accounts. Remember it is good to use historical data to plan for your future, but it is critical to look at your accounts regularly and to keep them bang up to date so you can always see where you are and adjust your cashflow forecast and business plan into the future, to enable the success of your business.

For further information, contact Gareth Sear on 01243 841607.

Olympics - Now things Want your business to go for Gold at the London 2012 Olympics?

Here are some simple but important and immediate steps to take to make sure you don’t miss out…..

• Go straight to the London 2012 website http://www.london2012.org/en/ • Register for the free e-newsletter - this is essential as it will ensure your business is informed about Olympic tendering opportunities.

• Read the relevant sections of www.London2012.org which has a significant amount of information about Olympic opportunities. These are located across the site, but you might want to go to the Getting Involved page and click the Business link.

• Alternatively, visit www.businesslinksussex.co.uk and go to the Benefit from 2012 pages.

• If you can’t register online, call 0845 THE MAGAZINE 06

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n some cases, businesses were experiencing a little bit of low-level crime & disorder, which could be reduced or solved by various security measures. These measures included guard patrols or monitored CCTV. In late 2005, businesses on Southern Cross Industrial Estate came together to recruit a security firm to provide guarding services. This scheme developed into the Business Improvement District that was overwhelmingly supported in December 2006. In July 2006, through the recently set up Rustington Trading Estate Business Association, a group of business owners decided to launch a security scheme to help themselves. They formed a company limited by guarantee, and with the help of Rustington office services company Arun Office Services, a scheme was launched.

The businesses held an informal tender and chose Guardian to provide guarding support. This has reduced anti-social crime significantly, and is reviewed at each trading

estate meeting. More importantly it is an estate-wide scheme that sees businesses benefit from a co-operative approach, reaping economies of scale. By sharing the total costs, businesses pay significantly less than if they were to do it alone.

At South Bersted, there was a more significant problem. At Christmas it was feared that with factories & offices on skeleton staff or shut, vandalism would increase. Through the South Bersted Business Park Association and Arun Office Services, a scheme was created and 17 businesses paid a shared sum to ensure there was a presence around the business premises. Again, this was significantly reduced from a cost a business would bear on its own. Consequently, incidents over the holiday period were minimal.

At Riverside Industrial Estate in Littlehampton, a different sort of scheme was introduced with monitored CCTV cameras being installed. The Riverside Business Park Association, working

together with The Better Business Park Project, held an informal tender, with the businesses consequently choosing local Worthing based security & alarms company, IPS Ltd. As the cameras are monitored, Littlehampton guarding company Allied can be called to follow up any intrusions. As a result of signing up 60% of the estate to the scheme, and setting up its own company, the Better Business Park Project and Littlehampton Welding contributed significant sums to help fund the installation and setup of the scheme.

So, what can we learn from these examples? That working together can be an effective, money saving enterprise. And, although these schemes were initially coordinated by The Better Business Parks Project, they are ultimately sustainable because businesses own and run them. It is also worth noting that the local police have increased their awareness and involvement with business park occupiers, and work in partnership with these private schemes.

are getting interesting 600 9 006 and state your company name and what sector your business is in, and ask for information to be sent to you.

It’s vital for your business that you do this in the next few weeks.

If you’re a small business (as so many in Arun are), you might think that you’ve got no hope of landing an Olympic contract.

However, the powers that be have decreed that companies of all sizes will be eligible for consideration, even for the largest of contracts – so it is definitely worth a go! You can get plenty of information on how to tender for a contract from the Office of Government Commerce – www.ogc.gov.uk.

You also need to be aware of the very strict guidelines (some might say Draconian) that the Olympics Committee have issued in regard to the use of all words, symbols and logos to do with the Olympics. These can be downloaded from www.london2012.org and it is imperative that you adhere to them – otherwise a very large penalty can be forthcoming! We really can not stress enough how careful you need to be – whether you’re making an Olympic cake or wanting to use certain words in your advertising in the run up to the Games, you must adhere to the guidelines.

The Olympics gives the entire country a massively exciting opportunity for social regeneration, business development and

the hope that we won’t fall at the start line and let another country take the medals. Businesses in Arun already count world-leaders amongst them – and this is your chance to get even more involved!

Training camps will be located around the country and we’ll be notified at the beginning of 2008 as to whether one will be located near Arun – as soon as we know, we’ll let you know!

Log onto www.london2012.org today to ensure that you have a slice of the action!

In order to protect the Olympic brand and the publishers of the Arun Business Magazine, we must state that we have no affiliation with any of the Olympic bodies and have produced this article for information purposes only.

07 THE MAGAZINE

BUSINESS ADVISORS

Chris Shephard

When I first started this job, it became quickly apparent that on a few industrial estates, businesses would benefit from joining together to pay for some form of security

BUILDING BUSINESS

Security Schemes

SOUTHERN CROSS

PROFILE

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SOUTHERN CROSS

The Southern Cross Industrial Estate, located just to the north of Bognor Regis, is the very first industrial estate in the South East to successfully become a Business Improvement District (BID). We look at what this means for the estate’s residents.

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identified in the original business plan so as a result, the levy raised can be spent on other parts of the business plan. This will also benefit the estate through increased security, and by clearer, smarter signage, enhancing the estate's image.

“With the two new projects of CCTV and Signage, businesses on Southern Cross can see a direct benefit of being in a BID area before they start contributing their levy. These two improvements should begin to make an immediate and real difference to the safety and the image of the business park, and enhance its reputation as a great place to do business.”

As is to be expected, businesses on the estate are fired up about the potential offered by their new BID status. Sharon Dean, Chairman to the Southern Cross BID Steering Group, explains.

“It’s been a long road to get to this point, but the sense of achievement that we’re all feeling is incomparable. Going

leading the way!

BID has wide reaching consequences for the area in which it is applied, as we discussed in the first issue of The Magazine. For those of you who missed that feature, or need a refresh, here are a few of the salient points:

• BIDs are defined areas where all of the rate payers have democratically agreed to pay a levy on top of their business rates for the good of the area • The monies raised in this way can be used for any initiative that is deemed to add value to the trading area – for instance marketing, security (see the box out to find out how the estate is tackling its security issues) or signage which the businesses themselves have suggested • BIDs can also lever in money from outside sources (grants etc) to top the pot up and allow the traders to undertake more initiatives than they

would have been able to afford on their own.

The BID process took a while, as it always does. There were two rounds of voting procedures that had to be gone through as well as the many meetings, discussions and consultations that have to go into the process. In fact, this process took the best part of three years to get off the ground. They say that good things come to those who wait…

Even though the BID status is technically in its infancy, it has already begun to effect real change on the estate, as Chris Shephard, Coastal Business Parks co-ordinator, explains: “Once the BID vote was passed, the BID company investigated other sources of funding. Single Regeneration Budget money was applied for by the BID company and received for two projects, CCTV and Signage at the entrance to the Industrial Estate. These projects were

Security is about managing risk...

• • • • • •

Mobile Patrol Keyholding Uniformed Security Access Control Intruder Alarms CCTV

...and we do it well

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Guardian Facilities Ltd, Fortune Business Park, Brook Lane, Worthing, West Sussex. BN12 5JD enquiries@guardianfacilities.co.uk www.guardianfacilities.co.uk

+44 (0)1903 500 999 THE MAGAZINE 08

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Security on Southern Cross

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ith vandalism, graffiti and boy racers, the Southern Cross Estate had more than its fair share of problems. As the BID process was starting to come together, Guardian Facilities were employed to try and reverse these anti-social trends.

Following discussions with the steering group, Guardian implemented a solution to meet the unique needs of the estate’s residents.

“Previous security providers had failed to understand specific issues encountered by the estate, so we

worked in partnership with the steering group to comprehend the problems and then proposed a range of measures to address them.” says Tony Woolcott of Guardian Facilities.

“I’m delighted to say that our targeted approach has seen a massive reduction in the levels of anti-social behaviour – and this trend started almost as soon as Guardian took over the contract.”

“A combination of high visibility liveried vehicles, the correct calibre of Security Personnel together with random patrolling, often including Security Dogs,

For further information on everything that is going on in Southern Cross, have a word with Chris Shephard 07929 030816 or Sharon Dean – 01243 828921.

continuing our security initiatives.”

When attempting any project on this scale, achieving ‘buy-in’ is crucial.

“We’ve been fortunate on Southern Cross,” Sharon continues. “Before the BID process started, we always saw a wide range of companies at our estate meetings.

Once the BID process started and gave us a real focus, this spirit of co-operation became even more evident.

“Companies of all sizes wanted to get involved and to offer their support to the process. All involved have listened to the ideas of the others and added their own contribution, meaning that the maximum number of people have been ‘on-side’.

“In my opinion, this co-operation has been integral to actually achieving a successful BID.” With help from Richard McMann and Chris Shephard, a willingness to work together and the dogged determination to go where few others had been before, the residents of the Southern Cross Industrial Estate have achieved something that they can all be justly proud of.

and flexibility in our approach has been fundamental to our success.”

Through regular meetings with client representatives of Southern Cross Estate, Guardian Facilities review and analyse performance in order to improve services still further.

With an approach based on need rather than an adherence to a ‘price menu’, Guardian Facilities have made life far more pleasant for the businesses on Southern Cross. To find out more about their services, contact Tony on 01903 500999 or visit www.guardianfacilities.co.uk

V. A. Hutchison flooring ltd Specialists In All Types Of Hardwood Flooring Laminate Flooring I Most Hard Woods Floor Sealing & Polish I Floor Lacquers/Varnish Levelling/Sanding Telephone:

01243 841175 / 01243 841127 Fax: 01243 841173

www.hutchisonflooring.co.uk e-mail: vahutchisonflooring@btinternet.com Unit 1 - 3 • Beeding Close • Southern Cross Trading Est. Bognor Regis • PO22 9TS

09 THE MAGAZINE

PROFILE

process when the whole BID concept was relatively new, we didn’t have the luxury of being able to copy what others had done.

“However, we made the transition from an informal group to a fully ratified BID and are now looking to the future. By the time that The Magazine is distributed, the new signage should have been erected to help visitors navigate around the estate and the CCTV system will be fully bedded in.

“We’ve got great plans for the future as well, plans which will give us the opportunity to make best use of the money that our BID status has attracted.

We’re hoping to be able to work on the aesthetics of the estate, making it an even more attractive place to work, as well as

SOUTHERN CROSS

through the BID process has been quite a steep learning curve – since we started the

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Couriers (europe) Ltd

RS Couriers have been established since 1989 and provides a first class service for all of your logistic and storage requirements.

Our goal is to provide customers with a specialist range of quality services focused on all of your same day, next day and worldwide logistical needs.

At the heart of RS Couriers is a team of well trained and experienced individuals who are equally committed to delivering a full range of service and support to you.

Ebay: We now collect from your home and deliver to your destination anywhere in the UK next day.

SAMEDAY • STORAGE • EXECUTIVE CHAFFEUR SERVICE • WORLDWIDE SERVICES • EXPRESS NEXTDAY • SPECIAL SERVICES

RS Couriers (europe) Ltd Unit 4 of 12 – 13, Durban Road, South Bersted Industrial Estate, Bognor Regis, West Sussex P022 9QT Tel: 01243 829222 Fax: 01243 830400 E-mail: info@rscouriers.co.uk Web: www.rscouriers.co.uk

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GETTING TO KNOW YOU

Business Exhibition

Arun’s premier FREE business exhibition – ‘Getting to Know You’ – has been a great success in previous years, and for 2007, there’s even more on offer for you!

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hose who have attended previously will be familiar with the format – companies take exhibition space to promote their business to the rest of the Partnership and other visitors to the exhibition - but please remember – no BIG exhibition stands. This approach remains unchanged this year, and will remain a free event for Arun businesses! We are also increasing the length of time that the event is open to give you more opportunities to market your services.

As well as the exhibition space, there will be three workshops running over the course of the afternoon focusing on: ● Marketing ● Finance ● Art and business

These workshops will also be free of charge, so you might want to bring another person with you this year to mind your stand while you attend the workshops.

There are sponsorship opportunities for Getting to Know You and they are strictly on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact Steve Cusack on 0870 1900 220 to discuss how your company can get involved!

There will be a ‘Biz Bag’ for the event, containing a range of marketing materials from companies across the district. If you would like to include some of your promotions in this ‘Biz Bag’, please contact the Sales Team on 0870 1900 220.

Getting to Know You will take place on 20th June at Fontwell Park Racecourse.

For any further information, please contact Steve on 0870 1900 220 or Miriam Nicholls on 01903 713436

11 THE MAGAZINE

EXHIBITION

to Know You

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Finishing Ltd

• Corporate Events & Functions • Birthdays • Weddings • Funerals 26a Rose Green Road, Rose Green, Aldwick, Nr Bognor Regis, West Sussex PO21 3ET

Tel/Fax: 01243 266223

Industry leading using the latest technology to increase quality and to reduce harm to the environment.Finishes we offer: Zinc & clear & colour. Bright tin, Anodise Natural & black & Iridite Ncp. All the above finishes are Rohs compliant.

Latest colour finishes on offer including Alochrome 1200 and Iridite for all zinc and bright tin plating requirements.

Use of the latest processes will guarantee future proof finishes, protected against the enforcement of EEC regulation CR3.

For further information contact C&W Finishings Ltd on 01243 838311 Unit M,Byfield Place, Durban Road,Bognor Regis West Sussex

Chelsea Exhibitor & Teleflorist

Business siness Solutions siness Solutiions ions The Business neess Solutions team at Northbrook College Co ollege is dedicated to delivering em employer mployer neeeds. We aim to respond efÞciently,, providing a professional and high quality training needs. service and d helping you take advantage of all the skills funding now coming on stream eg gion. Our unique and responsive business b ß for the region. development process is ßexible t e ept to a to ensuree that downtime and disruption to existing business operations are ke kept m, especially e w minimum, when delivered in the workplace setting. ro ook CollegeÕs business solutions solutio ons service will also help you to: Northbrook Ŷ Provide e more m organisattion training within your organisation nd schedule employee development Ŷ Plan and sure you get the most from all funding fundin ng now available Ŷ Make sure ill these courses beneÞt your company? c How will ping your staff, supervisors and managers, man nagers, you will gain the following ta angible op By developing tangible beneÞts: vem ments in customer service Ŷ Improvements tio ons in staff turnover Ŷ Reductions se of o senior management time Ŷ Release o you y apply? pp y How do tacct one of our skilled business advisers advvisers by telephoning 01903 606 6114 or Just contact 606114 bu usiness.solutions@nbcol.ac.uk to arrange a t emailing business.solutions@nbcol.ac.uk a meeting to discuss your training men nts. We will assess your business needs, recommend appropriate training t requirements. impact positively upon your businesss performance and identify the asso ociated that will impact associated available to support your training budget. bud dget. funding available

business in ness solutions @ northbrook

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Work, experience and learning

F.A. Holland

carry out on behalf of their clients. The experience will help him progress through his Business Studies course at the college.

“Leon was really keen to find out how we do things,” continues Mark. “We were all extremely impressed by his attitude, aptitude and punctuality.

“The team made time to explain the tasks that we’d set and to answer any queries from Leon. We’ve had a number of students in the past and always find it such a refreshing experience that we’re hoping to continue giving young people a taste of life in a real, working office.”

Elaine Fell, Head of Business Studies at Bognor Regis Community College said: “I am delighted that Adams Beeny were able to take Leon. Their report was glowing so I would definitely use them again for students keen on finance.

“Leon said that he had a brilliant week and thoroughly enjoyed it – it was proper work and they showed him how to do spreadsheets, book keeping and evaluations – he got a lot out of it, the staff were very friendly and he enjoyed their team environment.”

The placement courses offered by the College are for a variety of different industries not just finance and they look for help throughout the year from local companies to place students.

To become involved with giving young people a taste of real life experience, contact Bognor Regis Community College on 01243 871010. You can also speak to Mark at Adams Beeny on 01243 865661 to discuss their experiences in more detail.

Education Business Partnership Bognor Regis Community College Westloats Lane Bognor Regis West Sussex PO21 5LH

efell@wsgfl.org.uk sperris@wsgfl.org.uk

Funeralcare

Your local funeral director

ADAMS BEENY & CO Our caring staff are here to listen and advise you, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Littlehampton 01903 713939 Terminus Road, Litthampton

Rustington 01903 771010 16 Ash Lane, Rustington

Worthing 01903 248900 10 Station Parade, Tarring Road, Worthing

Bognor 01243 827311 7 Canada Grove, Bognor

Active in community projects

Chartered Certified Accountants Chartered Tax Advisers

FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION Accountancy Taxation Tax Investigations Bookkeeping VAT Payroll Business start up Sole traders Partnerships Companies

1 Sidlaw Terrace Clarence Road Bognor Regis West Sussex PO21 1JZ Call Mark Cook or Suzanne Godwin on 01243 865661 e-mail: info@adamsbeeny.com visit our website at www.adamsbeeny.co.uk

13 THE MAGAZINE

WORK EXPERIENCE

I

t’s amazing how things come about. At the last Business Partnership meeting (held at the Beachcroft Hotel), Bognor Regis Community College put out an urgent request for someone to take a sixth form student for a week’s work experience.

They’d tried other avenues and come up with nothing. However, in true Business Partnership style, Mark Cook, Director at Adams Beeny, picked up the baton within moments and the deal was done.

“The key to being able to provide a successful work experience placement,” comments Mark, “is having something rewarding for the student to do.

“There’s little point giving the student basic tasks – they need to experience a flavour of life in a real working environment.”

With this philosophy, it’s little wonder that Leon from Felpham College quickly became immersed in the workings of Adams Beeny.

Although he wasn’t able to see detailed breakdowns of clients’ files (due to data protection and customer confidentiality), Leon was able to assist with Accounting Working Papers and the range of analytical work that the Adams Beeny team need to

ADAMS BEENY

Adams Beeny, one of the longest established accountants in the Arun Area, based in Bognor Regis, recently took a student from Felpham College for a week’s work experience. We hear how it went.

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For Further information contact: Brian Woolmer Tel: 01903 788348 brian.woolmer@auditel.net

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M

ark and Nigel’s combined experience covers both the commercial and domestic markets. They’ve worked with businesses on shop-fitting projects, office builds/refurbishments and also the more specialised work that is involved in constructing food premises. They can also deal with metal partitioning and suspended ceilings.

When not working with their commercial clients, the team flex their creative

muscles building extensions or loft conversions to add value and usability to their clients’ homes, or undertaking comprehensive renovations. They are also highly experienced working with solid wood or laminate flooring – helping to give the final finishing touch to any domestic refurbishment.

If you are planning to refit your kitchen or bathroom (and, let’s face it, this is the time of year to be starting such projects), then give T&R Carpentry a call. They can

tackle any project of this sort and work with their clients to turn dreams into useable realities.

Based in West Sussex, T&R Carpentry cover the whole of the south.

Importantly, they offer their potential customers free quotations and guarantee satisfaction in everything that they do.

For more information, call Mark on 07776 143520 to see how the T&R approach can help you to make the home or office you want.

T & R Carpentry All Aspects of Building Work Undertaken

· · · · · · · · ·

Commercial and domestic Kitchen/Bathrooms Solid wood and laminate flooring Metal partitioning and suspended ceilings Free quotations All aspects of building work Refubishments and Renovations Shopfitting Extensions Loft conversions

Mark Terry Nigel Redfern

07776143520 07840163965

15 THE MAGAZINE

PROFILE

Although T&R Carpentry have only been established for eight months, the partnership of Mark Terry and Nigel Redfern brings the weight of over 15 years experience to T&R Carpentry.

T&R CARPENTRY

DREAMS

SMOKE FREE

REGULATIONS

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The Background The severe affects on people’s health of secondary or passive smoking are well documented and for this reason, governments around the world have been taking steps in recent years to protect the health of the public (and employees) by introducing legislation to restrict smoking in public places and in the workplace. Scotland introduced similar legislation last year; Northern Ireland will do so from April 2007, and from July 2007, the above regulations will be introduced in England. The Welsh Assembly is likely to adopt similar regulations in the very near future.

T

he new Regulations summarise research from around the world to demonstrate the positive effect on health of such legislation.

“In total, 12 US states have comprehensive smoke-free legislation in place, which includes completely smokefree restaurants and bars. These laws have proved effective in protecting people from secondhand smoke. The Journal of the American Medical Association documented a significant improvement in respiratory health among bartenders after the passage of the Californian smoke-free workplace legislation. In New York, cotinine** levels in non-smoking bar and restaurant staff declined by 85 per cent.

Montana saw a 40 per cent drop in hospital admissions for heart attacks during a 6-month period of smoke-free workplaces.” Smoke Free (Premises and Enforcement) Regulations, 2006 page 5. **A major metabolite of nicotine found in blood and urine. Currently regarded as the best biomarker for exposure of nonsmokers to environmental tobacco smoke.

THE MAGAZINE 16

The Regulations have been drafted or published in five parts, which are: a) The Smoke-Free (Premises and Enforcement) Regulations b) The Smoke-Free (Signs) Regulations c) The Smoke-Free (Exemptions and Vehicles) Regulations d) The Smoke-Free (Penalties and Discounted Amounts) Regulations e) The Smoke-Free (Vehicle Operators and Penalty Notices) Regulations A summary fact sheet of all of the above can be obtained from Wray People Management on request or visit the website www.smokefreeengland.co.uk for updates.

smoking area (and this is not a requirement) this must be outside and away from the public and must not be in an enclosed space. The best way to describe what will be allowed under the regulations is no more than a ‘bus shelter’ to protect smokers from the worst of the elements.

All workplaces and public buildings must now display clear signs that smoking is not allowed. At each entrance to any premises there must be placed, in a prominent position, at least one sign which is: • A5 in size, • which displays the internationally recognised no smoking symbol, • and which must contain the words, in a font which will be easily readable, the words “No Smoking. It is against the law to smoke in these premises”.

It is also possible to display the internationally recognised no smoking symbol in colour if it is at least 70mm in diameter where only employees work in the building and where there is the full sign at the entrance or where there is a smaller premises within a larger one (for example a shop within a shopping centre.)

It will also be a requirement to place a no smoking sign in vehicles or compartments of vehicles where any members of the public will travel, or in a company vehicle, where more than one person may use it (i.e. unless it is effectively a personal company car).

However, if they are likely to carry another member of staff as a passenger they will not be entitled to smoke in the vehicle.

What do the Regulations Mean?

Apart from very few exemptions, smoking will not be allowed on public premises or places where people work from 1 July 2007. It will no longer be acceptable to have a smoking room within the premises. If employers agree to have a

What Should Employers be doing?

Many employers already have a total smoking ban at work, but if you do not OR if you currently allow smoking in an area within the building OR if you allow smoking in an enclosed space outside of

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SMOKE FREE

the building you will need to consult with your staff now about changes coming in from the beginning of July.

We advise you to follow the steps outlined below: • Consult with trade union representatives and/or a representative group of staff, to include smokers and non-smokers, (preferably allowing three months to consult) about the changes, and to agree a policy on the smoking ban.

• Ensure someone in the organisation is identified as the named person responsible for drafting and implementing the policy and for ensuring compliance with it following implementation (including ensuring that appropriate signs are in place).

• Agree whether the company is going to have a complete smoking ban on company property or will allow smoking in an agreed location outside the building away from the public.

• If smoking is to be allowed outside the building: • Agree what facilities will be provided (which must comply with the new regulations and must not be in an enclosed space).

• Agree how smoking breaks will be managed. This causes a great deal of resentment amongst non-smokers and needs to be fair to all concerned, with agreement reached as to how time for smoking breaks will be monitored.

• Agree how staff who wish to take this opportunity to give up or who may find the new restrictions difficult to cope with initially, will be supported (see below). This may include, but not be restricted to, the provision of leaflets, visits and advice from occupational health services and time off to attend counselling or seminars on stopping smoking. Some

companies also provide financial assistance with aids to stop smoking for example nicotine patches.

• Be clear about the implications of noncompliance with the policy, resulting in disciplinary action being taken.

Penalties for Non-Compliance with the Regulations

Failure to comply with the regulations will result in the following penalties: • For not displaying No Smoking Signs – there will be a fixed penalty of £200 (or £150 if paid within 15 days). A conviction for this offence can carry a fine of up to £1,000.

• For smoking in a public building or workplace, the fixed penalty is £50 (or £30 if paid within 15 days). Convictions in this case carry a fine of up to £200.

• A conviction for failing to prevent smoking in a public building or workplace carries a maximum fine of £2,500 with no fixed penalty in this case.

REGULATIONS

Regulations 2006 How can I Support Staff who wish to Stop Smoking

• Support may include but not be restricted to the provision of leaflets, visits and advice from specialist advisory services and time off to attend counselling or seminars on stopping smoking. Some companies also provide financial assistance with aids to stop smoking for example nicotine patches. The NHS provides a wide range of free resources and advice. Call 0800 1690 169 to find your local NHS Stop Smoking Service or text ‘give up’ and your full post code to 88088. The Stop Smoking Services may be able to visit your workplace in the lead up to implementation to provide and support to staff. The following web sites may also be useful for staff: www.gosmokefree.co.uk; www.quit.org.uk; www.smokefreeengland.co.uk

17 THE MAGAZINE

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Would you expect a plumber to sort out your kidney problem?

Would you ask a lawyer to type a letter for you?

Would you ask your secretary to fix your car?

No? Then why are you struggling to deal with difficult and time consuming personnel problems on your own?

If you are having problems with poor performance, regular sickness absence, discipline or grievances, high staff turnover, poor morale, or Tribunal complaints and it is all getting you down, let the experts help you.

We can also advise you on implementing new employment legistration – including the Smoke Free Regulations 2006 We are a local company providing expert People Management advice and guidance to a wide range of companies on a retained or ad-hoc basis. So stop worrying, pick up the phone and ring us now for more information.

WRAY People Management Helping you to get on with doing what you are expert at!

Tel: 01903 713000 web site: www.wraypm.com email: info@wraypm.com Winners of the Littlehampton Customer Care Award 2004

Product Range • Bearings • Consumables • Drive Belts • Electric Motors • Fasteners • Hydraulics

INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING SUPPLIES LTD

Product Range • Hydraulics • Industrial Hose & Fittings • Lubricants • Pneumatics • Tools • Valves

INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING SUPPLIES LTD Units G16.U2 • Rudford Industrial Estate • Ford Arundel • West Sussex • BN18 0BD Tel: 01903 734000 • Fax: 01903 734123 e-mail: sales@iesltd • www.iesltd.net

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for composites

The South East of England Development Agency (SEEDA) is providing £200,000 to fund an essential training programme that meets the needs of the composites industry, a high-growth, hi-tech sector which is critical to the economic success of the region.

E

mployers in the sector have a pressing demand for the specialised training, which is not currently supplied by any of the local providers. Cogent is the national skills council for the composites sector, and through its research it identified an urgent need to upskill the composites sector workforce. It will lead on the development of the programme which will boost skills in the companies who sign up. SEEDA invited bids from consortia of learning providers, trade bodies and employers to develop a series of training programmes that meet workforce development needs which are

not currently being supplied by existing Further and Higher Education or private sector providers.

The programme will address skill shortages at Level 3 focusing on technical training in relation to the manufacture and application of composite materials. Cogent will work with partners (Isle of Wight College, Southampton City College, Composite Processors Association and composites employers) to develop a specific qualification for composite technologies. This will be rolled out across the South East which is the home to over 170 organisations

Suppliers of

associated with composites.

Composites are currently used in a very wide range of applications, for example, automotive manufacture, aircraft structures, wind energy and marine applications. The course, content and material will be developed between now and July this year, with the object of starting delivery in September 2007 and programme completion in July 2009.

For further information, visit http://www.cogent-ssc.com

excellence

Industrial Engineering Supplies, based on the Rudford Industrial Estate in Ford, do more than their name implies.

W

hether your business needs a toilet roll or a power pack system, IES will go the extra mile to ensure your satisfaction. For a start, there’s the free local delivery, which guarantees you will get your items when you need them.

Then there’s the wealth of experience held by the team – all of whom are fully trained to the highest standards. And, by giving their service the personal touch, they’ve seen the company grow from strength to strength since their inception in 2002.

If you need any independent verification of their abilities, then you need look no further than the clutch of industry accreditations that they hold. They are ISO9001:2000 and QMS accredited, as well as being an Approved Hose Manufacturer – an honour given out by the BFPDA (British Fluid Distributors Association), who are regulated by the

Health and Safety Executive.

For each of these organisations, the IES team have needed to prove their business in a variety of areas, whether it be paperwork and administration systems or the installation of hydraulic components. Each accreditation is time limited, but the team keep renewing them year-on-year thanks to the high standards that they maintain.

Their client base includes the West Sussex Fire and Police services, as well as the County Council, a number of local Councils and large engineering firms throughout the UK and Channel Islands.

From safety-wear to jetting assemblies and pneumatic valves, their clients appreciate their in-depth product knowledge and efficient approach.

Many customers will be familiar with both Managing Director Jason Golding and Sales Manager Dougal Powell, each of whom is happy to advise on any

aspect of the IES service.

Once a purchase has been made, customers are able to have it delivered directly to them by the team or can collect in person from the trade counter on Rudford Industrial Estate. The IES service represents a complete package from purchase to installation and beyond.

The 24hour hydraulic emergency call out operation has also helped many customers with unforeseen problems and allowed them to continue their business without too much interruption.

The team have recently published their free catalogue, which details the full extent of their product lines and abilities.

To get a copy of this, or to discuss how IES can support your business with the most competitively priced products, give the team a ring on 01903 734000 or drop into the Trade Counter on Rudford Industrial Estate. You can also email them: sales@iesltd.net

19 THE MAGAZINE

INFORMATION

industry players

ARUN BUSINESS

Grants available

BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP

DEVELOPMENTS

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Partnership, you

You have told the Business Partnership team that you wanted an online portal for all that the Business Partnership stands for an offers. www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk is in the final stages of testing and will give you what you have asked for and more!

T

here have been many considerations taken into account in the development of your new Business Partnership

website.

Naturally, it has to be easy to use. The back-end has to be powerful enough to allow all 5,050 of you to log on at precisely the same time. It needed to be easy to navigate and simple enough to allow even IT novices to upload their information. Having been in development for some months, the website is now in the exciting testing stages and will be released in the next couple of weeks.

Ensure that you bookmark www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk now to ensure that you are one of the first ones online! Businesses across Arun are already signing up to the site as they can see the benefits that it will bring for their business – and this is without it going live!

Here, we look at just what the website and associated incentive card will do for you.

Why will the website benefit me and my business?

The Arun Business Partnership website will allow you to market, promote and shout about your company to the entire Business Partnership. You will be able to see all of the news from across the area, get involved with events, know about forthcoming meetings, take advantage of special offers and get access to the essential information that you need to run your business.

If you’re already an active member of the Partnership, it will allow you to get even further under the skin of everything that is happening in Arun. Should you be one of those businesses who haven’t yet experienced the full power of the Partnership, then you’ll find that the website will be the ideal introduction.

THE MAGAZINE 20

Why do I need to be involved with the incentive card?

The Arun Business Card (ABC) is the incentive card which opens up a range of discounts available exclusively to you as a member of the Business Partnership. Not only will you save money on the every day essentials that you need to run your business, for example office supplies, office furniture or entertaining, but each of your employees will also be able to take advantage of special offers across the Arun area from dry cleaning to restaurants.

•

• •

But what will I actually get in return for my subscription?

•

All of the businesses in the Business Partnership will receive a free listing with their company name and address. By becoming a member of the site and Incentive Card, you’ll be able to do so much more! Once you’ve become a member, you will get:

•

• A full business listing – ensure that everyone knows who you are, what you do and how you do it with a full business listing on the Business Partnership website. You’ll get complete contact details (address, telephone, fax, email and website link),

•

•

picture of your business and a link to a Google Map to show the world where you are!

News – have you won a big contract, employed a new member of the team or have something that you need to shout about? Use the Arun Business Partnership website to get your message out there for free!

Events – publicise your open days, special offers and more Jobs – advertise all of your jobs free on the website – saving you hundreds or thousands of pounds compared to local media advertising!

Downloads – ever spent hours searching for forms and documents such as expenses forms or the latest updates to Health and Safety legislation? Look no further – you’ll be able to download all the important documents your business could ever need for free!

Business Bazaar – have an old desk that you need to get rid of? Need a filing cabinet? The Business Bazaar is your chance to sell or swap things with other local businesses that you don’t need for things that you do!

Links – search no more for links to funding bodies, business advice services and more. The Business Partnership website will give you a wide range of links to organisations who can help your business. Add your own links and recommend others!

The Magazine – want to know more about a story in The Magazine? It’ll be on the website and you can read it for free

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website, your card

BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP

our

14/5/07

DEVELOPMENTS

• Offers – promote your own offers or discounts to other businesses in the Partnership and save your company money by trading locally, only with your Incentive Card! Add and update your offers as often as you like – free!

• Incentive Card (ABC) – get enough ABC cards for everyone in your company – free!

• Updates – you will be able to update every piece of information about your business on the website as often as you like, from wherever you like! Tell everybody that you’ve moved, change your special offers, put up the latest news and events. You are in total control of your information!

• Publicity – we will be promoting the Business Partnership website on an ongoing basis throughout the area. By

being involved, your company will benefit from the publicity schedule surrounding the launch and growth of the Business Partnership website.

• Gallery – your opportunity to show all of the other companies in the Arun Business Partnership your business, your staff, your products and your events. Ensure that everyone knows your face!

In addition to this content, uploaded by you though an extremely straight forward content management system (if you can put a word document together, you’ll have no trouble using this for fast, professional results), we will have a section dedicated to the Business Partnership Awards event, complete with photographs, lists of winners and company profiles.

With the Incentive Card (ABC Card) you will be able to: • Save money – businesses subscribed to the Partnership website will be uploading special offers and discounts, available only to ABC Card holders!

• Promote your company – put your special offers on the Business Website and tell the entire Partnership about what you do and why they need to be doing business with you • Give a card to all of your employees - every penny spent by your employees with local businesses, such as restaurants, shops and accommodation providers, helps to boost the Arun economy and put more money into your business.

It’s your Business Partnership – so use it!

How much will it cost?

Membership of the Business Partnership’s website and incentive card will cost just £100 (+VAT) per annum or £10 per month (+VAT) by direct debit.

The subscription cost for the website helps to fund the site’s development and also puts money back into the Business Partnership. Every business that subscribes to the site will be helping the Partnership to deliver and further develop: • The Getting to Know You event • The Business Conference • Regular Meetings • And many more initiatives designed to help your business grow!

For more information on how to get involved with the Business Partnership website and to hear more about what it will do for your business, contact a member of the Partnership team on 0870 1900 220 who will be delighted to have an informal conversation about how www.arunbusinesspartnership.co.uk works.

21 THE MAGAZINE

BOGNOR REGIS

UPDATE

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What’s been going on in Plenty – that’s the answer! We’ve got a snippet of information here for your delight and delectation, and, as you can see, the grass certainly isn’t growing under anyone’s feet (nor anywhere else if the temperatures continue to soar!).

As promised, the team behind The Magazine are keeping you abreast of the latest news and developments. To discuss anything in more detail, please contact Richard McMann on 01903 737959.

Consultants appointed for local entertainment study St Modwen Properties, one of the major partners in the regeneration of Bognor Regis, have appointed Locum Consulting, an independent specialist destination consultancy, to carry out a study into entertainment and cultural provision in Bognor Regis.

The study has been commissioned in partnership with Arun District Council as a prelude to the development of the detailed plan for the £100m regeneration of the Regis Centre and Hothampton sites.

Locum will consult with key leisure user groups in the area to hear their views on current opportunities for local people and the potential for future entertainment provision to attract more visitors into the area.

The report will build on the Entertainment Provision Study, commissioned by Arun District Council in September 2004, to provide an up-todate assessment on the entertainment needs of Bognor Regis.

Gary Morris of St Modwen, comments:

“The objective of the study is to identify the type of self-sustainable facilities needed in Bognor Regis and where these should best be located, to ensure longterm cultural and economic benefits to the population of Bognor Regis. Based on the current proposals, the Entertainment Centre will make up less than 5% of the overall scheme but it is vital that, through working with the community, we get this component right to enable us to raise the image of Bognor Regis as a cultural destination throughout the south-east.

“Locum has been appointed due to its extensive experience in the leisure, hospitality and entertainment sectors across the UK and, more specifically, due to its work in connection with seaside resorts and tourism. They have advised Thanet District Council on the regeneration of Margate seafront and the East of England Development Agency in the preparation of its Tourism Action Plan.”

St Modwen and the Council will invite local leisure users, including the managers of existing leisure facilities on the Hothamton and Regis Centre sites together with national commercial leisure opertors to submit business proposals for the operation and management of any

new entertainment facilities.

Richard McMann, Coordinator of the Bognor Regeneration Task Force comments: “The Council and its partners are excited about the opportunities that could be created as a result of the study. Any provision will need to work as an attraction for Bognor Regis, not only in its own right, but also as part of the new mix of attractions contained within the overall development. It is vital for the Town that any provision is commercially viable and sufficiently successful to stand on its own feet”.

Locum Consulting will produce its final report to be presented to the Bognor Regis Regeneration Working Party at the end of May, after which it will be made available for public consultation, ready for a final decision by the Council in July.

Once feedback on the study is received from the local community, the results will be considered by both St Modwen and the Council, and the findings will be incorporated into the final scheme proposal. The initial designs for this will then be presented to the community for extensive public consultation in autumn/winter 2007.

it is vital that, through working with the community, we get this component right to enable us to raise the image of Bognor Regis as a cultural destination throughout the south-east

THE MAGAZINE 22

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BOGNOR REGIS The Council is committed to high quality design and is delighted that the SERDP is assisting us

Way finding elements around the town

Regeneration designs under panel review St Modwen Properties, together with Arun District Council, have been presenting their first thoughts on designs for the redevelopment of the Regis Centre and Hothampton sites in Bognor Regis town centre to the South-East Regional Design Panel (SERDP) for review and feedback. Although St Modwen was the first developer to present to the expert panel, Berkeley Homes and L.E.C., by invitation of Arun District Council, have also had their first thoughts on designs considered by the architectural design board.

SERDP was established to promote and support the delivery of high quality and well-planned developments across the South East region. The panel consists of independent architectural experts, plus urban designers and planners, the

majority of whom have specific knowledge of the local area and working in the region. The private sector specialists will sit alongside officers and council representatives and together they will examine key aspects of the individual designs as part of a ‘holistic review’ of each scheme, and the regeneration of Bognor Regis as a whole.

At a recent meeting in March, the SERDP heard a presentation from St Modwen with KSS Design Group, architects for the Regis Centre and Hothampton scheme. The plans will be assessed in relation to overall design and architectural style, the integration of proposed development with the existing built environment, landscaping and access, plus safety and vibrancy within the public realm. A report outlining the panel’s findings, assessments and recommendations was provided to Arun District Council and St Modwen within ten working days.

Gary Morris of St Modwen, comments: “Although the development agreement between St Modwen and Arun District Council is not set to be signed until June or July this year, we are keen to get as much feedback on our initial design ideas as possible, before a masterplan is presented to the community for extensive public consultation in the autumn. We welcome feedback from SERDP, as not only will the panel be able to provide independent expert opinion on design, but members with a local knowledge will also be able to provide feedback on how the scheme works within Bognor Regis and the wider area as a whole.”

Richard McMann of Arun District Council, comments: “Development is not just about buildings and their uses. It is also about the quality of design and the creation of places to be proud of. The Council is committed to high quality design and is delighted that the SERDP is assisting us.”

23 THE MAGAZINE

UPDATE

For more information on everything going on in Bognor Regis, contact Richard McMann on 01903 737959

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Premier cleaning solutions

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2007 BUDGET

playing tricks right to the end

G

iven that the state of the economy and the Government’s finances have changed little in the past few years, the fact that the Chancellor chose this Budget to announce such sweeping changes suggests a political motive. He constantly made references in his speech to the level that allowances would reach by the 2010/11 fiscal year, which will coincide with the latest date for the next general election. Gordon Brown has used his final Budget to build his popularity in the country as a future Prime Minister.

Yet, when all the Budget measures have been added up, the net effect is a miniscule fiscal tightening of £280 million in the 2008/09 tax year. In fact, other measures announced since last year’s Budget, such as the increase in Air Passenger Tax, will yield a net benefit to the Treasury of around £2.5 billion in each of the next three years.

Give-and-take on a grand scale As is so often the case, what has been given with one hand has been taken more sneakily with the other. Cutting the basic rate of Income Tax to 20p in the pound will cost the Exchequer £8.1 billion in 2008/09. All but £800 million of this is clawed back by abolishing the 10p rate, which this Government itself introduced in 1999. Meanwhile, although the threshold at which the higher 40p rate kicks in is to be raised by more than the rate of inflation to £43,000 from April 2009, this will be aligned with the level to which National Insurance contributions are made.

So, while low-income families will benefit from further increases in the Working Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit, middleincome households could find themselves slightly worse off.

The Chancellor also decided to steal at least some of the Conservatives’ clothes by announcing a cut from 30% to 28% in the

main rate of Corporation Tax. Pressure for a cut has been mounting in recent years, as the UK’s tax regime for businesses has become increasingly uncompetitive, with unfavourable comparisons often being drawn with Ireland, the Netherlands, and several countries in eastern Europe which have opted for a markedly lower basic rate (albeit with fewer reliefs).

But while Mr Brown made much of reducing the basic rate, it will not take effect until April 2008. What he neglected to mention in his statement was that the Small Companies rate, which applies to the first £300,000 of profits, will be increased from 19% to 20%, and not next year, but this year. And as if that wasn’t bad enough it will rise again to 21% in 2008, and then to 22p in 2009. Expect howls of protest from the business community.

In any event, the money given away by cutting the basic rate is roughly equal to what the Treasury gains by rationalising capital allowances. Additional revenue is also being generated from businesses by curtailing the reliefs from business rates currently available on empty commercial property. This measure, which takes effect from next April, is expected to garner close to £1 billion in the 2008/09 tax year.

Meanwhile, from August of this year, measures will be introduced to make it less attractive for self-employed people to establish companies, from which they draw dividends rather than income.

As is now the fashion, the Budget contained a smattering of modest ‘green’ measures. Raising Vehicle Excise Duty to £400 on the most polluting cars from next year is hardly likely to put anybody off buying a ‘Chelsea tractor’. The Chancellor continues to shy away from measures that would bring about a significant increase in the proportion of the Government’s revenues raised from so-called ‘green taxes’. The uprating of fuel duties is

CASH ISSUE

After delivering eleven Budgets since June 1997, Gordon Brown left it to his penultimate sentence to announce one of the most eye-catching measures of his tenure as Chancellor. For the last Conservative government, led by John Major, a 20p basic rate of Income Tax was a cherished ambition to be realised once the public finances were healthy enough. This will now become a reality from 2008, as part of a radical shakeup of the tax regime for individuals.

once again being postponed until October, while no mention was made of levying VAT on aviation fuel. Those who buy a new ‘zero carbon’ home may be gratified to pay no stamp duty if its value is less than £500,000, but given that house prices have risen by more than 10% in the past year, some people will be disappointed that stamp duty thresholds on other property transactions have not been increased.

Moving the goalposts one last time

The Treasury continues to assume that the economy will grow at around its recent trend rate, that is at between 2.5%-3% a year. In that case, it is a little surprising that despite this fairly neutral Budget, the fiscal position continues to deteriorate. Since the Pre-Budget Report of less than four months ago, the Government’s projected net borrowing for the period from 2007/08 to 2011/12 has risen by £12 billion.

In any case, many of the measures announced in this Budget are phased in over the next few years. It will be a brave newcomer to the Chancellorship who suggests to the new Prime Minister that these measures should be undone.

So, whatever the ambitions of the next Chancellor, his or her first Budget is likely to be a tame affair, with little scope for grand gestures.

As for Gordon Brown, on the positive side he will be remembered for presiding over a decade of economic growth and stability that is unprecedented in Britain’s modern economic history. On the negative side, he will also be remembered for his constant fiddling with the tax system – this Budget contained no fewer than 52 changes. No Chancellor since Gladstone has held the office for longer, and few, if any, have been better practitioners of the arcane arts of financial conjuring.

25 THE MAGAZINE

2007 BUDGET

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...summary of main rates & allowances for 2007/08 Income tax - rates Rate - Starting rate: 10% - Basic rate: 22% - Higher rate: 40%

Income bands £ 2007/08 2006/07 0 – 2,230 2,231 – 34,600 Over 34,600

0 – 2,150 2,151 – 33,300 over 33,300

Income tax - allowances 2007/08 £ Personal allowances - aged under 65 - aged 65-74 - aged 75 or over Married couples allowance* - age under 75 and born before 6.4.1935 - age 75 and over - minimum amount Income limit for age allowances Blind person’s allowance

2006/07 £

Change £

5,225 7,550 7,690

5,035 7,280 7,420

+190 +270 +270

6,285

6,065

+220

6,365 2,440 20,900 1,730

6,135 2,350 20,100 1,660

+230 +90 +800 +70

* Married couple’s allowance is given at the rate of 10%

Capital gains tax Annual exemption limit - individuals - trusts

2007/08 £

2006/07 £

9,200 4,600

Change £

8,800 4,400

+400 +200

Inheritance tax 2007/08 Tax rate Tax threshold (£)

2006/07

40% 300,000

40% 285,000

Change £ +15,000

Sundry taxes and excise duties Unit Beer Wine Spirits Cigarettes Low-sulphur/sulphur-free petrol & diesel THE MAGAZINE 26

Pint 75 cl bottle 70 cl bottle packet of 20 Litre

Typical effect of tax change +1p +5p +11p +2p

2007 BUDGET - YOUR PULL-OUT GUIDE

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2007/08 £ Annual allowance Lifetime allowance

225,000 1,600,000

Change £

2006/07 £ 215,000 £1,500,00

+10,000 100,000

2007/08 £ zero rate 1% 3% 4%

2006/07 £

0 – 125,000 over 125,000 – 250,000 over 250,000 – 500,000 over 500,000

0 – 125,000 over 125,000 – 250,000 over 250,000 – 500,000 over 500,000

VAT thresholds for business registration 2007/08 £ Threshold for registration Threshold for deregistration

2006/07 £

64,000 62,000

61,000 59,000

Change £ +3,000 +3,000

Corporation tax rates Annual profits £0 - £300,000 (small companies’ rate) £300,001 – £1,500,000 over £1,500,000 (main rate)

2007/08 rate 20% (Marginal relief) 30%

2006/07 rate 19% (Marginal relief) 30%

National Insurance contributions

Lower earnings limit, Class 1 Upper earnings limit, Class 1 Primary threshold Secondary threshold Employees’ Class 1 rate: 11% 1%

2007/08 £ per week

2006/07 £ per week

87 670 100 100

84 645 97 97

100-670 above 670

97-645 above 645

These tables are intended as a guide to the recent Budget from the Chancellor.

For further information on how the Budget will affect your individual circumstances, please consult a financial advisor who will be able to assist.

This information has been kindly supplied by HSBC for use in the Arun Business Magazine.

27 THE MAGAZINE

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Stamp duty thresholds (residential property outside ‘disadvantaged areas’)

2007 BUDGET

2007 BUDGET - YOUR PULL-OUT GUIDE

Pension schemes allowances

TAMING THE LYON

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Taming the Following the publication of the Lyons review of Local Government Financing, there has been much talk of revaluation of property and adding new Council tax bandings. While not strictly a business issue, any changes to the Council Tax structure could have profound implications for the business people of Arun – virtually all of whom maintain a home. Neil Hopkins looks into it.

B

ased on 1991 property values, the current Council Tax system has both its supporters and decriers.

If there was to be a revaluation of property (which is distinctly unlikely in the lifetime of the current Parliament), the values would be readjusted to match the property values of a more recent time – probably 2005. In this corner of the country, it’s unlikely that any houses will have lost value in this time, so one might reasonably expect that the Council Tax burden will go up.

However, the Lyons inquiry has come up with a new suggestion to try and distribute things a little more fairly – to supplement the existing Council Tax bands with two new additions; one at the top and one at the bottom – taking from the rich and giving to the poor one might say. It is therefore suggested that, should this idea be taken up by the powers that be, the readjustment would see the majority of the population shifting into the band above that which they are currently in, a smaller percentage adjusting downwards and an even smaller percentage leaping two or more bands upwards.

One of the arguments put forward by the inquiry as to the fairness of this method of adjustment is that there are few asset-rich, income-poor households.

However, when one considers the soaring of prices in the Arun area (large portions of which are deprived and made up of low-income households), it is hard to understand how the revaluation will not adversely affect these householders. Only time will really tell, especially in light of the ongoing discussions around the reform of Council Tax benefit systems and the joys

THE MAGAZINE 28

that this will bring.

What this means for the rental market, I’m not quite sure. There are many people who are renting accommodation and paying as much as they can afford, divided their hard earned cash between their landlords and central/local government (and let’s not forget the tax on everything else in our lives). If the bands are re-established, will this see a massive change in the rental sector with people forced to downsize due to the increased tax burden that, through no fault nor gain of their own (they of course don’t benefit from the spiralling prices as they don’t own any real estate), they are obliged to pay?

The Lyons review has assumed that the changes to the Council Tax structure will be cost neutral to central Government; that is the money that they ‘lose’ from people moving down a band is made up by those moving up. This is all very well at central Government level, but at the individual strata of our society, the changes could be dramatic.

Consider the ‘worst case’ scenario where the vast majority of houses across Arun hop up a band, and look at both the rental market (as above) or the new-to-market purchasers. If Council Tax increases dramatically, will these people be able to afford to stay in the area, or will they stay but have a lot less disposable income each year? If they are forced to move out of the area, then they are either going to have to change jobs or commute further – thus negating the Council Tax savings and probably decreasing their expendable income yet further. And less disposable income means less to spend on the nicer things in life…

And what of start-up businesses? With

entrepreneurial individuals trying to make it on their own, will a mass revaluation of property prices impact on the grass roots growth of the local economy? In the worst case scenario, yes it will.

However, it is important not to be a doom monger about such things. In the US, certain states and cities (including Washington DC) conduct yearly property price reviews which lends a great deal of credibility to Council Tax being linked to property values. And various EU states conduct their revaluations every few years. Wales recently went through its own revaluation process, spurred on by its newly devolved status. It wasn’t easy, but they managed it – so there is a precedent for successful revaluations.

The problem with any mooted revaluation of property and subsequent changes to Council tax is that it is a political hot potato. In order to maintain the credibility of the current system, experts argue that a revaluation is necessary. However, it’s definitely not a vote winner to tell people that they may, or may not, have to pay yet more in Council Tax – especially in light of recent and continual year on year rises.

The revaluation really isn’t going to happen any time soon, that’s for sure.

But, when it does, it will be an interesting one to watch, especially for the SMEs of the Arun Business Partnership who might just find their financial situation changing due to market forces that are, let’s face it, completely out of their control.

If you wish to read the Lyons report for yourself, visit www.lyonsinquiry.org. It’s 406 pages long (without appendices) – light bedtime reading then…

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Grant Scheme receive will depend entirely on the project that you’re hoping to carry out with your grant. The higher the gains to the local economy in terms of skills, productivity and employment, the greater the funds that you stand to gain.

Money for nothing?

To be eligible for a SFIE grant from SEEDA, you need to be a small or medium sized enterprise (SME), which a vast amount of businesses within Arun area are. You also need to be able to demonstrate your unique selling points (USPs) to differentiate you from the competition. Think of it like a tiebreaker competition – you and two others have the right answers, but it’s

Annual Turnover

Annual Balamnce Sheet Total

Less than 10

Less than 2 million Euros

Less than 2 million Euros

Small

Less than 50

Less than 10 million Euros

Less than 10 million Euros

Medium

Less than 250

Less than 50 million Euros

Less than 45 million Euros

SIZE Micro

Head Count*

Now that that’s cleared up and you know where you are in the world of European bureaucracy, it’s time to move onto the next set of criteria.

For full eligibility for a SFIE Grant, you need to be looking to invest in manufacturing or service industries that supply a national/regional rather than purely local market, and you must be wanting to use your cash to get long term productivity, skills and employment gains.

The exact criteria that will govern your chances of getting some filthy lucre are as follows: • The location of the project – projects must be located in an Assisted Area – so as Arun’s classed as an AA and, as a business here, you’re over this hurdle already • The need for financial support – projects must require financial support in order to go ahead. The chances are if you’re looking for grant funding, you need the money to make something happen, so all you need to do is demonstrate how much you need the cash • Whether you have made any prior

commitments – no binding financial commitment to the project should already be in place; if there is, then you might find it difficult to demonstrate that, without SFIE, all of your plans are just so much hot air • Eligibility of investment – project must involve capital expenditure on fixed assets such as property, plant and machinery • The type of jobs created or safeguarded – if you want more than £100,000, you must show that your project will create new jobs or safeguard existing employment • Viability of your proposed project – the project should be viable and assist the business in becoming more competitive and profitable • Quality of project – support will focus on high quality, innovative, knowledge based projects that provide skilled jobs.

• Regional and national benefits – projects should contribute to the regional and national economy and it is up to you to prove this!

So long as you can satisfy the above criteria, you’re ready to progress to the

the final outstanding feature that decides who wins.

In terms of SME definitions (to reduce confusion), SEEDA and the overlords of European business bureaucracy have issued new guidance on how to define such enterprises. These are as follows: To find out if you are an enterprise (the E of SME), consider the following statement: “An enterprise is an entity engaged in an economic activity, regardless of its legal form.”

Does this sound like you? The chances are that, if you’re reading this, you’re an enterprise under the above definition.

To work out if you’re micro, small or medium sized, see which bracket you fall into from the below table:

*including permanent, temporary seasonal workers and partners in the business, but excluding maternity/paternity leavers, apprentices or vocational educational placements

next stage of actually filling in an application form – and the good news is that it’s only three and a bit pages long.

Once the form is complete, you’ll have to send it back to SEEDA who should be able to give you an answer in around 30 days.

SFIE certainly looks like a good prospect for SMEs located in this part of the SE, especially as Arun is an AA. The new SME definition (as ratified throughout the EU) should clear up any confusions and increase the eligibility of grant opportunities for SMEs. This is your chance to get your hands on a pot of money dedicated to helping your business grow further.

For additional information, check out www.seeda.co.uk and look under their ‘Funding and Advice’ section.

The invention of new acronyms probably won’t increase your chances of success in your application, but it could be worth a shot anyway…

If you do look into this, hit hurdles or maybe you’re even successful – let us know as there’s every chance that others can learn from what you’ve done.

29 THE MAGAZINE

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I

n this edition of The Magazine, we’re going to look at the snazzy SFIE Grant Scheme. That’s the Selective Finance for Investment in England scheme, for those of us who don’t talk public-sectorese…

The SFIE scheme comes direct from the esteemed offices of the Department for Trade and Industry (DTI if you need another acronym) and aims to encourage businesses to invest in land, buildings, machinery and plant to help them expand. It is only available within Assisted Areas (AAs) – ie the more deprived parts of the country.

And Arun, being a place of polar opposites, qualifies.

The level of funding that you might

SFIE GRANT

If you were to shake a large, muck covered stick in the general direction of a public sector body, you’d probably find more grant schemes than you could cope with. Start-up finance, grow-on finance, energy rebates, you name it and there’s probably a grant out there somewhere for it. And that’s without even considering European funding routes…

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up the options Weighing

MONEY IN MOTION

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At this time of year, many businesses are reviewing their transportation needs and working out which vehicle from the multiplicity of choices will be suit their needs. Cost is obviously an issue, but there may be ways to get around this…

W

hat you might like to drive, what you should drive and what you can afford to drive can be very different things. While many of us would like the S2000 as reviewed later in this edition, it’s not the most practical vehicle for, say, a distribution company. The first step in acquiring your next company vehicle should therefore be to work out what it is that you need, exactly. Take emotion out of the equation and look at the objective facts. This sounds like a Grandma and eggs situation, but many of us allow our hearts to lead the way in matters of motoring.

There are many resources on the internet (such as manufacturers’ websites, motoring magazines et al) that will give you detailed technical specifications for most of the vehicles on the road. It’s worth spending some time evaluating the nitty-gritty of seemingly comparable vehicles – especially if you need something that can lug a lot of weight. Yes, this can be extraordinarily dull, but careful research now will match you to the precise vehicle that you need and prevent you having to get something else further down the line or, worse, regretting your decision. There’s no point, for example, in getting a mid range SUV if you need the towing/carrying capacity of a Nissan Patrol…

Then there’s the cost issue, something

THE MAGAZINE 30

that will naturally play a big part in your decisions. Not only should you consider all of the deals that are currently available (including twisting your local dealership salesman’s arm until you hear a snapping sound), but it is worth considering the wide range of finance options available.

We covered this in the first edition of The Magazine but as a recap, here are a few of the different ways that you can get your hands on the perfect vehicle: • Contract Hire • Finance Lease • Contract Purchase • Hire Purchase • Sale and Leaseback

you’ll probably find one that fits your individual circumstances perfectly.

Getting the right vehicle needn’t be as costly as you think that it will be. Careful research will probably throw up a few surprises and give you more choices than you thought that you had. And once you’ve explored all of the available finance packages, you could find a new vehicle that meets all of your needs in your parking space for a lot less than you thought possible…

Your accountant will be able to offer some advice as to which of the above options would suit you best. Alternatively, speak to your local dealership and also one of the vehicle leasing firms in Arun. Each option has its own pluses and minuses, but

Cartoon by: Helen Yeo Tel 07811 423104

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BUSINESS & CHARITY

Charity begins O

ne of the biggest buzz-phrases of the moment is Corporate Social Responsibility, or CSR for short.

This is the notion that businesses of any size should be attentive to the economic, social and environmental impacts of everything that they do, wherever they are located or work. It’s certainly a nice thought – but on top of taxes, equal opportunities legislation and environmental drivers from DEFRA, what does it actually mean and is it just another hoop you have to jump through?

One of the main drivers of the CSR agenda is the Government, who (to their credit) have recognised the opportunities presented by a voluntary coalition of effort between the charitable and corporate sectors. So you might get a company helping to brighten up a rundown underpass, another letting their staff work for half a day a week with pupils at a special needs school or helping to plant a sustainable woodland.

So, in other words, you’d be letting your staff get away from that which makes you money to achieve… What exactly?

There are a number of answers to that question – and most are largely intangible yet vital to your business. For one, there’s the ‘feel good’ factor, after all, doing something nice for someone else does give one a warm glow. However, if you look at the extension of this intangible, companies who release their

staff for short periods of time to do something else have reported productivity and efficiency gains. The staff feel good about themselves – and more importantly, your business – and happy staff are productive staff.

Then you’ve got the slightly less intangible asset of brand development.

Imagine that your company sponsors a local school to design a number of images to brighten up the façade of a run-down building while it is waiting to be sold/redeveloped. As part of the sponsorship deal, you get a plaque stating that you’re the ones behind the project. Passers by will read this and see that you’re doing something to brighten the community, noting your CSR credentials. This will make your business stick in their minds and they might be more likely to buy your products/services.

Plus there is a growing ethical shopping movement, and this sort of community involvement will attract the ethicallyminded consumer to your business above your competitors.

And then there’s the ultimate leap of association. As a business person, you’re concerned with two things: your bottom line and the continuation of your business.

If you can’t get your bottom line right, the business will go under (see the above examples of CSR action that may help with this). And if you can’t get the staff to run your business and adhere to the high

companies who release their staff for short periods of time to do something else have reported productivity and efficiency gains

standards of quality that you’ve set, you’ll run yourself into the ground before watching the business slide. By getting involved with CSR opportunities, you’ll make your brand more widely known – and this will attract people to your business.

But, and this takes a really long term view, you’ll be helping to build a better, more prosperous community from which you can cream the talent in years to come. You will be, in essence, an active contributor into the society around you – the society that buys your goods/services and the society that supplies your labour force.

The Arun Business Website will have a detailed section on Corporate Social Responsibility, with hints on how you can get involved with the Arun community.

While the site is being developed (it is currently in the final stages of testing as discussed on page 20), why not contact the following to have a chat about what they do and how you can get involved: Chestnut Tree House – local hospice

for life-limited children. Call 01903 871821 to find out more about their work and how your business could get involved.

The Wire Project (based in Wick) –

The Wire Project supports children and young people as well as their families.

They run after/before school clubs, and target their work to deprived/underprivileged young people. They need admin support and people to help with the children (CRB check required) as well as a range of other opportunities. Call Gemma Herbert 01903 731796 for more details or log onto www.thewireproject.com

31 THE MAGAZINE

COMMUNITY

Getting involved with charities or community based projects might not be at the forefront of every business owner’s mind, but there are benefits as Neil Hopkins explains.

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There can’t be many people across Arun who haven’t heard of Bognor Rox – the free summer music and arts festival. From new music through poetry, prose, visual arts to dance and drama, the festival attracts thousands of people each year – and this year, Arun businesses are invited to get involved.

“Our philosophy is to deliver opportunities to these young people that they might other wise not have had, to give them new experiences and new skills.”

Their approach has been developed in conjunction with the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA), who recognise the value of the work that they’re undertaking. Further support has also been forthcoming from the West Sussex County Council, Arun District Council and Bognor Regis Town Council. This has allowed the Bognor Rox team to expand the range of opportunities that they can offer throughout the community – but to expand further, they see the support of local businesses as being vital.

If you are interested in supporting Bognor Rox – either the summer festival – by sponsoring, providing services or

by volunteering - or for the wider programme of events – then contact Steve Goodheart on 01243 863769.

There are a range of ways that you can get involved to help ensure that the Bognor Rox way reaches even more people in the coming years. Whether you financially support the festival (and have your branding put in front of thousands of people in the process) or can offer somewhere for the team to hold a workshop, your involvement will help to transform the lives of children through music and the arts. Call Steve to discuss your involvement today!

The no chore radio store! Cleaning, the way it’s STS are Arun’s specialist radio and communications supplier. With all major manufacturers supported, they operate a one-stop-shop for all of your communications requirements.

S

TS have seen a marked growth in the sales of two-way radio in recent years, and they’ve ensured that they can capitalise on this market. Not only do they offer business customers free in-depth advice to match their requirements to the systems on offer, but they also provide free site coverage surveys to ensure that customers are happy with their choices.

STS can also hire out two-way radios for special events. Whether you’re helping out at a sports day or running an event which requires crowd control, you’ll be able to hire a complete communications system at an extremely competitive rate.

In addition to radio, STS also supply a wide range of paging equipment including hospitality systems, nursecall, lone-worker and personal attack alarms. Once again, if you’re not sure what you need, then the team will be able to advise you.

The law regarding mobile phone usage has been tightened up recently – if you’re caught on the phone while driving, you’ll be liable for both points and a fine. In order to avoid this, STS can supply a complete range of hands-free options, from Bluetooth headsets to complete car kits to keep you motoring on the right side of the law.

Whatever your communications requirements either now or in the future, STS Communications have the expertise to ensure that you get what you need. With over 27 years of experience in the communications sector, you’re assured that they can deal with almost any request that you might have. Give them a call on 01903 713074 to see how they can help you or log onto their website – www.stscomms.co.uk.

meant to be.

Over time, the carpets in your home or office are going to get dirty, no matter how much care you take over them. Everyday dirt from the street, dust and the occasional coffee spill all mount up to make your flooring look tired before its time.

H

owever, help is at hand from Ian Cunningham at IC Services.

With over 25 years’ worth of specialist cleansing experience, Ian can bring your carpets back to life.

“One gets used to the gradual degradation of carpets over a period of time and their dulled colours are often seen as normal.

“However, I’ve had clients amazed by the vibrant colours that return to their offices or homes after I and my team have been in.

Some of our clients have been considering buying new carpets – but after a proper clean, they see that they don’t have to!”

In addition to the carpet cleaning services, Ian and team also turn their attention to upholstery, bringing back natural radiance and eliminating odours.

Testimonials for IC Services can be obtained from the team, so you can see what their previous customers have been saying about them.

If you’re interested in air purification products, Ian will also be able to give you advice on the different options and match his range to your needs. With air purification units able to kill even superbugs such as MRSA, they could be a vital addition to your home or office.

If you want your office or home carpets rejuvenated with a deep down, professional clean, give IC Services a call on 07860 316856.

33 THE MAGAZINE

PROFILES

“W

e’re expanding all the time,” comments Steve Goodheart of Bognor Rox. “We’re looking to put on more events, more workshops and more shows to get as many people involved as possible, including event volunteers.”

“In order to do this, we’re hoping that the local business community will get behind us and help us deliver our wide ranging programme across the District.”

Bognor Rox isn’t just about the free summer seafront festival – it goes much further than that. Bognor Rox is a charity that is dedicated to bringing the arts to disadvantaged young people across Arun. They organise workshops, provide instruments and tutors to help children get involved with the arts.

“Through the arts, children can really express themselves,” continues Steve.

ARUN BUSINESS

Rox on!

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Bed, Breakfast... and Conference FROM just £85 per head.

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Arundel Park Tel: 01903 882588

The royal norfolk hotel, the esplanade, bognor

A conference environment tailored to your needs in one of the most beautiful locations on the South Coast. 40 bedrooms and theatre style conference rooms to accommodate 140 delegates set in over 2 acres of landscaped gardens with glorious sea views.

hotel

AN INDEPENDENT TWO STAR HOTEL Located in the picturesque setting of the historic town of Arundel.

Close to the railway station and only 5 minutes walk from the castle entrance and all that Arundel has to offer. We are ideally located for touring the South of England, being well connected to Chichester, Portsmouth and Brighton. Gatwick Airport and Central London are also easily reached by direct trains.

Bar • Beer Garden • Conservatory Restaurant Versatile Functions & Events • Gardens Afternoon Teas • HotSpot & Internet Café 100 mtrs from Arundel Railway Station 15 Bedrooms – All Ensuite & Non Smoking FREE PARKING FOR GUESTS

The Goodwood Room offers a reception style environment for 100 delegates who can dine in Nelson's Restaurant or use the Garden Suite and Coffee Shop whilst making use of the wireless internet facility and the Bar. Please enquire about our highly competitive day delegate rates.

The Esplanade, Bognor Regis. West Sussex PO21 2LH

Tel: 01243 826222, Fax: 01243 826325 Email: accommodation@royalnorfolkhotel.com www.royalnorfolkhotel.com

Email: info@arundelparkhotel.co.uk

why not give your company a break?

Web:www.arundelparkhotel.co.uk

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CHARITY GOLF DAY

for a

EVENTS

ROUND?

If you think that a driver wears a flat cap and waits for you outside posh restaurants, then the Arun Business Partnership Golf Day might not be for you. However, if you’re ready to prove your skills to the rest of Arun, then read on!

IT

THR O

U

F

H

R

G

2007

A

U

N

B U S I N E S S PA R T N E R S H I P

PA

You can: • Sponsor the entire event – get your name on banners, course cards and more

If you are interested in sponsoring the event or want to book your team onto the day before all of the places are filled, please contact Michael Pisko on 0870 1900 220.

R

P

After the day’s sport is over, there will be a rolling buffet to satisfy courseweary appetites.

To help you achieve the most from this event, we have arranged a series of sponsorship opportunities for you to use in the promotion of your company.

• Sponsor individual holes – put your banner by the green and make sure that everyone sees it!

• Sponsor individual teams – bring a team to the event who otherwise might not have been able to take part • Sponsor or provide prizes – reward golfing excellence • Help to raise money for St Barnabas!

PR O

T

he Business Partnership team have organised an inaugural Golf Day on Wednesday 4th July (Independence Day for those of you with a cross-Atlantic bent) at the Littlehampton Golf Club. With a range of tee-times on offer and all the entry fees going to support St Barnabas Hospice, could there be a better way of doing business?

Teams of four are invited to bring their best clubs and try to out drive, out putt and out chip each other to victory.

It costs just £120 for a team of four to enter and you’ll be fuelled for the day with a bacon roll and coffee on arrival.

Prizes will be on offer for: ● Team Prize for 1st/2nd/3rd ● Par 3 Nearest the Pin Prize ● Par 3 Hole in One Challenge Prizes (Win a £13,000 Car, A holiday, A set of top of the range golf clubs or a Home Entertainment System)

T N H E RS

I

35 THE MAGAZINE

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Restaurant, Take-Away & Hotel Sunday Lunch Buffet ~ Eat As Much As You Like Menu (Mon - Thur) Special Events Including: Christmas, New Year & Chinese New Year 10 Deluxe En-Suite Bedrooms ~ Ideal for Parties

China Inn, The Perfect Place To Escape & Relax!!

Felpham, Bognor Regis: 01243 855526 www.chinainnrestaurant.co.uk

• Serving Coffee, Lunch and Teas • • Bring Your Own Wine • • Room for Small Parties • • Sunday Lunch Specialities •

Middleton Road Middleton-on-Sea Tel: 01243 582232 Closed: Monday - Tuesday

BADEN PUBS LTD including outside functions catered for including bars and catering

Ye Olde Coach House NEWLY REFURBISHED… You’ll be amazed at the transformation

The Locomotive

Chelle and staff extend a warm welcome to you…

You will be assured a warm welcome by all the staff...

I Freshly prepared home cooked food, 12 noon – 9pm Monday to Saturday 12 noon - 4pm Sundays I Private parties catered for…whatever occasion!

I Plasma Screen TVs showing live football I Large family beer garden to the rear

I Fresh home cooked food served daily I Private functions catered for I Karaoke on Saturday night I Beer garden with children’s play area I Families most welcome

Station Road, East Preston, Littlehampton

74, Lyminster Road, Wick, Littlehampton

Tel: 01903 784858

Tel: 01903 716657

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DINING, F

or vegetarians, eating out can be somewhat tricky. Although the standard and availability of vegetarian cuisine has increased dramatically in the last decade, there’s always the nagging suspicion in the back of your mind that, perhaps, you’ll be dining on omelette and chips again. Not so at the China Inn, which has a good range of meat and fish free dishes on the menu.

More importantly, however, when my partner and I mentioned that we didn’t eat meat, Deborah (our hostess for the evening) smiled widely and announced that this was not a problem. Suddenly, the Mixed Hors D’Oeuvres on the menu dropped the meat content, as did the Lettuce Wraps, so opening up the options available to us.

And if they say that the first bite is with the eye, then we should have both been sated with just the Hors D’Oeuvres. Immaculately presented (even the carrot was fashioned into what appeared to be a miniature temple), the food was fresh, tasty and filling without being too-much in spite of the morethan-generous quantities. The spring rolls were particularly worthy of note – one is used to such delicacies swimming

with oil. But not so on this occasion – the pastry was crisp and dry.

For mains, we took a long time deciding and eventually plumped for Kung Po Chilli Bean Curd and Fried Aubergines in Black Bean Sauce. Now, there are two ways to cook aubergines.

Not at all or to death – and I believe that the mark of a good restaurant is being able to tread the tightrope between the two.

The chef at China Inn obviously has that perfect sense of balance – the aubergine skin was firm and tasty while the flesh melted in the mouth.

Absolutely perfect. The Kung Po Chilli Bean Curd, meanwhile, was equally well cooked, and you could actually taste all of the different spices used in the preparation, rather than it being a meaningless melange of flavours.

With egg fried rice and chow mein on the side, we dined like kings. Dessert and warm sake (the only way to drink it – and a particularly good bottle it was too) rounded off the evening nicely.

One question that came to mind during our experience was: when is a carrot not a carrot? The answer – when someone has taken the time and trouble to fashion it into shapes including small fish! It was almost a shame to eat it as I could imagine some skilled sous-chef beavering away with a small knife to give the meal that little bit extra.

Talking of that ‘little bit extra’, I could not fault the service we were given. It was attentive without being overbearing, and everyone smiled. It may seem like a small point, but service with a smile really does enhance an experience. The dedication of the China Inn team to their customers was apparent from the moment that we stepped through the door to the moment we left.

The ambience of the China Inn is fantastic as well. While the restaurant can seat 80, the tables aren’t crammed together so even at busy periods, you won’t be knocking chopsticks with a stranger. It struck me that it would be the perfect place for a business lunch or

evening ‘do’ – especially as there are some rather nice rooms upstairs that one could slope off to after a warm bottle of sake.

In summary, I expected the China Inn to be good – after all, it has been open a few years now. But I didn’t expect it to be half as good as it actually was – and that is the true mark of excellence.

There are two ways to cook aubergines. Not at all or to death – and I believe that the mark of a good restaurant is being able to tread the tightrope between the two

37 THE MAGAZINE

WINE & DINE

Food is a necessity, and few would argue with that. Dining out, however, is a luxury. And yet, with rising levels of disposable income, more and more people are able to take it for granted.

However, at the China Inn in Felpham, the luxury is put back into the experience.

CHINA INN

Inn style

BOW WINDOW

WINE & DINE

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Too good

to turn down

The Bow Window Restaurant and Tea Room in Middleton on Sea is a vestige from a by-gone era, and Miriam Nicholls and Neil Hopkins found out.

After such a feast, theoretically we shouldn’t have had a pudding. However, with homemade meringue and gooseberry tart on offer it would have been frankly rude to refuse

T

here’s something to be said for modernity. The pace of modern life dictates the sushi conveyor belt, the fast food outlet, the transience of experience. And yet, there are times when this seems hollow and one longs for a place where you can sit back, relax, feel a million miles away from the ratrace and catch your breath. The Bow Window is just such a place.

Immediately apparent on entering the restaurant is the subtle aroma of homecooked food that wafts invitingly from the kitchen. There’s a reason for this – the Bow Window doesn’t have a microwave and everything is freshly prepared. Paddy, the proprietor and chef, takes great pride in sourcing his produce locally where possible and always using fresh ingredients – something that is obvious when the food arrives to table.

Miriam decided to go for a perennial favourite – roast pork with apple sauce and trimmings (including crackling – unusual in this time of waist-line watching). The meat looked succulent, and the aroma implied the delicacy of the dish. I, meanwhile, decided to go for omelette, salad and vegetables. It’s worth noting that, with a little notice, Paddy can cater to virtually any dietary requirements – so if there is something you really fancy or can’t eat, give him a call in advance and

THE MAGAZINE 38

have a chat.

Evidently, I’m one of those people to whom the smaller things in life matter most. While the omelette was absolutely excellent – light, fluffy and extraordinarily tasty – the real highlight of the main course was the lightly fried potato slices.

Somehow (and we did try to find out, but Paddy would not divulge his secrets), the potatoes were light and crispy without being over- or under-done. The light dusting of salt was at the perfect level to bring out the inherent subtle flavour of the potatoes and oil, without being too much.

They were, quite simply, the best of their kind that I’ve experienced.

Miriam’s pork was cooked to perfection and complimented by exquisite apple sauce. Coupled with the boiled potatoes, swede, Brussels sprouts and the aforementioned potato slices, we dined like royalty.

After such a feast, theoretically we shouldn’t have had a pudding. However, with homemade meringue and gooseberry tart on offer it would have been frankly rude to refuse.

Making the faultless meringue is an art – and Paddy has this to perfection. Just offwhite in colour, crunchy on the outside and chewy inside, this was a dessert to die for.

The gooseberry tart, meanwhile, was incredible and obviously homemade. Not

too tart, not too sweet, the soft fruit was complimented by a light pastry and crumbled gently into the cream on contact with a fork. Wow. The food aside, Paddy is one of the most genial hosts we’ve encountered. Attentive without being overbearing, and full of stories about the surrounding area, he made an excellent meal into a relaxing, high quality experience.

As did the location, truth be told. Even thought the restaurant is on the main road through Middleton, we barely noticed any traffic noise, even though we sat in the window that gives the restaurant its name. We felt so far from the office, from the rush of life – and yet we were only two moment’s drive from the A259.

In short, the Bow Window Restaurant gave us both an experience that we haven’t enjoyed for some time. The care that is taken over the food and the service is apparent, the quality impeccable. While modernity is often recommended, we’d suggest looking to the by-gone age of personal attention and customer service to get something extra special.

Since there are also Afternoon Teas on offer, the Bow Window Restaurant is the ideal place to go with family, friends, staff or clients at any time. We’d highly recommend the experience.

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excellently prepared

WINE & DINE

Vicki Fairman and Mike Pisko take some time out in the garden of Ye Olde Coach House in East Preston.

The word jumbo is slightly inappropriate – eyeball-popping might be a better phrase. Big enough to satisfy even the most ambitious diners, and delicious enough to leave you wanting more

I

f the sun is shining, tans must be topped up, at least that’s Vicki’s assessment of the recent warm spell.

Thankfully, Ye Olde Coach House has a substantial garden, accessed through the dedicated dining area away from the bar.

The garden is large enough to be spacious, but small enough to prevent you putting your hiking boots before heading back inside, and has a children’s play area at the far end to ensure that it caters to the whole family.

Topping up the tans seemed to be a good excuse to pore over the menu in detail.

There’s plenty of choice for all on there, a fact which caused a little consternation with two hungry stomachs being persuaded in opposite directions simultaneously. The content of the menu is largely traditionally English fare and there are plenty of homemade options.

“Feeling in a summery mood,” Mike says, “I decided to give the prawn cocktail starter a whirl. I’m glad I did – there were prawns aplenty served on a bed of lettuce with kiwi fruit on the side. The slices of kiwi made an interesting change from the traditional notion of prawn cocktail – but actually worked really well.”

Vicki meanwhile took her shades off long enough to spy the soup of the day (which happened to be Leek and Potato), served with warm, crusty rolls. Thick and creamy,

the soup wasn’t perhaps the most obvious choice for a summery day, but a wise one none the less.

“You can’t beat good fish and chips,” Vicki enthused. “So I had to try the Traditional Jumbo Fish and Chips afterwards.

“The word jumbo is slightly inappropriate – eyeball-popping might be a better phrase.

Big enough to satisfy even the most ambitious diners, and delicious enough to leave you wanting more even when your buttons are bursting, I can’t recommend it highly enough.”

Torn between menu options, Mike decided to throw himself headlong at the specials board, ordering the slow roasted minted lamb shank in a red wine sauce.

“This was served with mashed potato and a good helping of green peas,” Mike explained. “The lamb was succulent and the red wine sauce enhanced the succulent nature of the lamb.”

With not a baa-d word to say thus fair, dessert was a definite next step. Whereas one might expect totally traditional fare from Ye Olde Coach House, the chefs obviously pulled something special out of the proverbial bag.

“The Brandy and Chocolate dessert had to be tried,” said Mike. “I was tempted by the deep fried ice cream served in butterscotch sauce, but the chocolate eventually won the day. This was truly

YE OLDE COACH HOUSE

fare,

delicious; the truffle centre melted in the mouth with the ice cream and mixed berries that came with it my summer lunch was complete.”

With the chocolate option already taken, Vicki had to be different, opting for a more traditional treacle sponge.

“This was amazing,” she enthused later.

“Light and fluffy, served with lashings of custard and berries, it was beautifully presented.

“You would have thought after the large meal I’d already enjoyed, that I wouldn’t be able to manage the whole thing. However, it was so nice that I did – and the delicacy of the preparation ensured that it wasn’t too sweet or sickly. I would recommend coming here for the dessert alone…”

Quite how Vicki maintains her svelte physique is a mystery to us all…

To sum up, Ye Olde Coach House is exactly what it claims to be - a traditional pub, with traditional food coupled with some modern flair. With food served between 12noon and 9pm, a great children’s menu and plenty for vegetarians to choose from, it’s the logical choice for a great family meal out. So why not follow Mike and Vicki’s lead and use the sunny weather as an excuse to get out to Ye Olde Coach House?

Interviewed by Neil Hopkins

39 THE MAGAZINE

SEN RESTAURANT

WINE & DINE

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Sen-sational

DINING

From Bognor Regis to the heart of the Mediterranean in one easy step – that’s the Sen magic, as Vicki Fairman and Mike Pisko report.

Relaxation is obviously the goal when going out to eat, but one must guard against too much settling into the comfortable chairs, as the menu needs some serious consideration

“O

ur instant reaction,” commented Mike, “was a big ‘Wow’. As you step into the restaurant from Sudley Road, you are immediately engulfed in a wave of tantalising aromas. Coupled with the Mediterranean themed décor and soft music, you feel that you’re instantly transported to another land. You may have only left the office a moment before, but you can instantly feel the stresses of the day melting away.”

Relaxation is obviously the goal when going out to eat, but one must guard against too much settling into the comfortable chairs, as the menu needs some serious consideration. Those who suffer from an inability to make decisions would be wise to bring a suitably authoritative friend with them…

To begin with, Mike decided to try the Albondigas (meatballs in tomato and garlic sauce). The sauce was hot and had a touch of spice but was not overpowering and the combination worked well as the meatballs were tender and tasty. Vicki meanwhile gave the Cheese Borek a try.

“What a way to start!” Vicki said. “The Borek is a filo pastry filled with feta cheese, spring onion and parsley, with a side salad. If the first bite is with the eye, then I should have been full instantly.

THE MAGAZINE 40

“It was perfectly cooked and substantial – although not enough to fill you up too much for a main course. This is definitely a dish to have again.”

Things kept improving, with a mixed kebab grill served with fried potatoes and a Pollo Al La Jardinera (breast of Chicken sliced and cooked with Mediterranean green peppers, tomato, onion, paprika olive oil, a touch of garlic and white wine) following in hot pursuit.

“The Pollo was absolutely stunning,” Mike continued. “It arrived sizzling and was still sizzling when I was on the last mouthful. This was also served with fried potatoes and a mixed salad with the option of having rice instead.

Accompanied by a large glass of Merlot (which if you mention seeing their advert in The Magazine will entitle you to a free bottle to take home) I was truly in Mediterranean heaven.

“Vicki was obviously delighted with her mixed grill as well, judging by the smile on her face.”

“It was absolutely irresistible,” Vicki butts in. “It’s definitely one for the food lovers and connoisseurs out there.

“Served on a hot plate, there was a real variety of meat to choose from, each piece cooked in the perfect way.

Superb!”

You’d think that after this culinary

experience, pudding would be out of the question. It was, until the duo saw the dessert menu.

“There was no way that I could refuse the lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate,” Vicki stated, “and Mike just had to have the banoffee pie.”

Mike nods. “It was simply the best presented Banoffee Pie I have ever seen and that was matched by the taste sweet enough but not too heavy. What better way to end the evening?”

Mike and Vicki were obviously completely besotted by the Sen experience. And with food that good, it’s easy to see why. The restaurant’s staff were unfailingly friendly and helpful and there’s a wide range of food (including vegetarian options) to ensure that everyone has something to enjoy.

Plus there’s a special lunch menu every day and also special menus for parties of 10 or more.

When you visit, don’t forget to take Sen’s advert from this magazine to claim your free bottle of wine and enjoy the ‘Sen-sational’ experience! You can see the current menu and get more information on the Sen Restaurant by visiting their website – www.sentapasuk.co.uk Interviewed by Neil Hopkins

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T

he menu at the Dragon is certainly extensive, so whether you’re a Chinese connoisseur or new to Oriental dining, you’re sure to find something that whets the appetite. Many of the dishes seem to be completely unique to the Dragon – I’ve certainly never had a vegetarian crispy duck before (the meal was vegetarian, not the duck, although it might well have been. I didn’t ask).

Speaking of this dish, not only was there plenty of it, but it was very tasty as well. With the ‘duck’ served on one dish, the pancakes in a bamboo steamer and accompanying vegetables/sauce, it was a real treat. The ‘duck’ (made from gluten) was indeed crispy as described and had a complex mix of spices that went well on the palate.

The ‘duck’ proved to be an unusual, although fitting, follower to the bean curd with chilli that formed my starter.

With enough heat to cause a glow, but not so much that one runs for the nearest drinking fountain, it went down rather nicely with a cold beer (of which they had a full range). The vegetarian spring rolls enjoyed by my partner were equally tasty and most importantly, not swimming in oil. Dry and succulent with a chilli dipping sauce, they started the meal off in style.

Interestingly, the Dragon staff don’t put your individual starter in front of you – they lay them on hot plates in the middle of the table. This is a brilliant idea and it allows you to easily share with you co-diners without leaning across the table, attempting to spear something tasty looking with a fork (or chopstick if you’re feeling brave).

The tofu main course was well presented, again with plenty of sauce and accompanying vegetables. The flavours were well balanced, with the spices combining into a pleasing whole – not too much of anything, which is how it should be.

The ambience of the Dragon restaurant is certainly conducive to either a business lunch (there’s a range of larger tables) or an intimate romantic meal. Airy and spacious, you can detect a gentle hubbub of conversation without being inflicted with the intimate details of the next table’s conversations.

With its location just a moment’s walk from the glorious beach front in Rustington, the Dragon Restaurant is a perfect choice for fine dining. You might want to take a walk along the beach prior to sitting down to work up an appetite that will do the large menu justice however...

The ambience of the Dragon restaurant is certainly conducive to either a business lunch (there’s a range of larger tables) or an intimate romantic meal

Dinner choices: Starter: Vegetarian Spring Rolls; Bean curd with Chilli sauce Main Course: Vegetarian Crispy Duck; Tofu in Satay Sauce, Malay Style; Egg Fried Rice

41 THE MAGAZINE

WINE & DINE

There’s something about Chinese cuisine; the mouthwatering smells, the look of the food. Even if you’re not hungry, suddenly you’ll find room for just a little something more, as Neil Hopkins found out at Rustington’s Dragon Restaurant.

DRAGON RESTAURANT

by the beach

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Comfort Inn Arundel Have your next meeting with us half day conference room rates from £45 with FREE tea and coffee on arrival for all of your delegates

Telephone: 01243 869933

6 Sudley Road, Bognor Regis www.sentapasuk.co.uk

Special Lunch Menu

2 Course - Only £5.95 1 Free bottle of Merlot or Pinot Grigo to take home for every evening meal from Sunday to Friday for two when mentioning this advert

• We have three rooms which cater up to 35 people each day delegate rates from £30 per person 24hr delegate rates from £80 per person • Hire rates start from £45 for a half day or £80 for the whole day Book your meeting today contact the reservations team on 01903 840 840 or email: reservations@comfortinnarundel.co.uk

Dragon

Chinese - Cantonese - Peking - Szechuan - Malaysian - Thai Relax In Our Bar For Drinks Before & After Your Meal.

Function Room - Karaoke

Open 12 Noon - 2.30pm and 5.30pm - 11pm 7 Days A Week Call Us For Further Details

125 Sea Lane, Rustington, BN16 2SG

T: 01903 773354

www.dragonrustington.com

*The Magazine Issue4 Neil:The Business Magazine

AUTO ELECTRICIANS

14/5/07

15:50

MOTOR ENGINEERS

ENTERPRISE GARAGE ESTABLISHED 1953

FITZALAN ROAD, ARUNDEL, WEST SUSSEX

01903 882278

AUTOMOBILE REPAIRS, OVERHAULS & SERVICE AUTO ELECTRICS & AIR CONDITIONING

Established for 17 years as a local garage, servicing all makes and models to manufacturers guide lines. Offering all aspects of maintenance and MOTs. We offer courtesy vehicles when available whilst your car or van is with us.

We have now incorporated van hire which can be hired DAILY or LONG TERM at very COMPETITIVE rates.

Fully Insured, no excess mileage.

AUTOMOBILE REPAIR SERVICE CARS COMPLETE Martin Bailey I I I I I

Servicing MoT/Welding Clutches & Brake Services Engine Diagnostics Breakdown Facilities

I Courtesy Car I Friendly Reliable Service I Air Conditioning Servicing, Repairs & Leak Detection

47 River Road, Littlehampton

Tel: 01903 732200

Page 43

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Nyetimber Mazda Local Company Established for over 25 years

• Collection from anywhere in the Arun District • Selection of pre-registered stock with sensational savings • Discount Percentages on new cars

• Deal with all major leasing • Other car makes available • Servicing

Specially arranged discounts for The Arun Business Partnership 33 Chichester Road, Bognor Regis, West Sussex PO21 2XH Tel: 01243 862468 web: www.nyetimbermazda.co.uk

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Makes People Stare Hot hatches aren’t what they used to be, so look out

45 THE MAGAZINE

ROAD TEST

And yes, from the outside, there’s a whiff of sportiness with the alloys, deep throated front grille and chromed exhaust pipes. But otherwise, the version I took out looks like a suave four-door hatch. A wolf in sheep’s clothing you might say.

If you’re into trading performance figures, then you can casually drop into conversation that the MPS version of Mazda’s award-winning 3 series will hit 62mph in 6.1 seconds. That’s quick.

Quicker, in fact, than the S2000 that we’ve also reviewed in this edition.

There isn’t any turbo-lag on the MPS, something which shouldn’t come as a surprise, but to anyone who has driven a turbo before, it still might. A small tap to the accelerator has the turbo vanes spinning frantically, ramming more air into the system and increasing the bang-perbuck factor.

As the turbo spools, the only comparable feeling is that which you get listening to a stirring piece of

classical music. It starts soft, then builds inexorably towards the top of the power band. It’s a sensation that truly stirs the soul, but without deafening the ears.

And yet, the Mazda 3 MPS is staggeringly practical as well. There’s plenty of space in the back for the children and the boot is definitely a useful size. There’s all the usual safety kit (ABS, air bags and so on), plenty of comfort and refinement. And, as we mentioned in the Mazda 6 write up in the last issue, the build quality is superb and cabin ergonomics absolutely spot-on.

So, what is there not to like about the 3 MPS? Not a lot is the answer. One thing I’d change – but only because I’m picky – is the fact that the speedo starts at the 6 o’clock position and 70mph is about a quarter of the way around. Yes, Mazda, we know that you can zoom-zoom to the other side of 150mph, but we just can’t do that on British roads. I’d have preferred it if the 0 of the speedo was a little further around so that I didn’t feel quite so cheated when I couldn’t press the loud pedal anymore, with the speedo needle barely started on its journey.

In short, the Mazda 3 MPS is a stunningly good car. It mixes brawn with brains, space with performance and logic with passion. If you’re after a car for the family or something to light a smile once in a while, you won’t go wrong with this one. Ford, Vauxhall and other contenders to the hot hatch crown – watch your step…

MAZDA 3 MPS

T

here was, once upon a time, a day when Golfs, Astras and Ford’s Focus ST ruled the roost when it came to hot hatches. However, there is a new contender on the block - the Mazda 3 MPS. If truth be told, I’m somewhat of an automotive snob. To me, sports cars are only sports cars if they’re powered through the rear wheels, and hot hatches are the sole preserve of the boy-racer set. Since hitting the road in the Mazda 3 MPS, I’ve had to revise my thinking. The 2.3-litre turbocharged engine is staggering. The handling for a front wheel drive car through the corners is confident with little understeer (no doubt thanks to the stability control systems). And the sheer brute force of the thing almost caught me unawares – because it doesn’t look like it should have such strength.

Yes, you’ve got reminders in the cabin that it’s the MPS (which stands for Mazda Performance Series, in case you were wondering).

says Neil Hopkins.

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YEOMANS HONDA DOING THE BUSINESS Since its inception in April 1996, Yeomans Honda at Bognor has enjoyed consistently good results –improving market share through a combination of great products, excellent service and extremely focused management and staff.

Following the introduction of the Honda diesel engine, together with the new models

and improved technology offers in recent years, Honda has become the informed choice for a company car.

With a mandate to provide a service that satisfies the needs of local businesses and their company car drivers, Yeomans Honda have set up a business centre which represents their dealerships in Bognor and Littlehampton.

A dedicated business manager, Richard Brame, is now available to assist all company car drivers –from small companies to large corporates.

As well as organising demonstrators we can offer help and advice on the various funding options and the cost implications for both companies and individuals.

As some of our cars are amongst the lowest CO2 emissions in the marketplace –our Civic Hybrid is 109 and our Civic 5 door diesel is 135 –there are very good reasons financially to be driving a Honda!

ACCORD Comfort and technology from £229 on Contract Hire for Business Users only.

Accord 2.0 i-VTEC SE Accord 2.2 i-CTDi Sport Accord 2.2 i-CTDi EX • • • • • • • •

£229 per month* £279 per month* £299 per month*

Multi-Function Driver Computer Front, Side and Curtain SRS Airbags Dual Zone Climate Controlled Air Conditioning Integrated Bluetooth Hands Free Telephone System (HFT) Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) (Sport and EX) Voice Recognition Satellite Navigation Leather Upholstery (EX) Automatic Headlights with Dusk Sensor (EX)

Yeomans Honda Bognor Chichester Road, Elbridge, Bognor Regis.

01243 860306

Yeomans Honda Littlehampton Horsham Road, Littlehampton

01903 722 011 www.yeomanshonda.co.uk *Contract Hire Terms and Conditions. Contract hire rate are based on Honda contract hire for the 2007 year model Accord Saloon and Tourer rentals are based on 3 months rentals in advance followed by 35 monthly rentals starting in month 2 with 10,000 miles per annum, non-maintained excess and other charges may apply dependent on the mileage and condition of the vehicle at the end of the contract all rentals are subject to VAT at standard rates all figures correct at time of publication but may be subject to change offers available to business users only contract hire offers are available across the Accord range on 3 years/variable mileage per annum maintained and non-maintained Honda finance Europe PLC. Offer is valid until the 29th March 2007 at Yeomans discretion subject to model and colour availability.

*The Magazine Issue4 Neil:The Business Magazine

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Page 47

BY THE POWER OF 2000 HONDA S2000

Honda’s S2000 has a sizable reputation to live up to. Neil Hopkins takes it out for a spin.

ROAD TEST

T

here are two types of people in this world. There are those who, when faced with a car that hasn’t been significantly cosmetically redesigned since 1999, would turn their noses up and go for something far more up to the moment.

Then there are some who would argue that ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.’ Who to believe, that’s the question?

On first acquaintance, the S2000 certainly doesn’t look as aggressive as you’d expect, given that it has 237 horses pawing at the ground, courtesy of the 2.0-l VTEC powerplant. It’s the sort of car that you could take home to meet your mother and be assured that she wouldn’t think you’ve turned into a speed demon.

But, as we all know, physical appearance isn’t everything. Underneath the well smoothed exterior is an X-bone monocoque frame, lending the car impressive rigidity. This translates through the seat and steering wheel into an expression of confidence and extreme sure-footedness.

This is exceptionally reassuring when you consider the manic engine that lurks within.

For those uninitiated into the world of VTEC, you’re unlikely to get the best out of a Honda. The engine note rises with the RPM and, if you’re the sort of person who changes gear by ear, you’ll probably flick through the 6-speed box at around 5000RPM. However, but the time you hit the magic 5k, you’ve got another 3300

revolutions to play with. And this is where the VTEC kicks in with a howl. There’s a frenzy under the bonnet, as through a caged beast has been let loose and the S2000 races forward into the horizon. The swell of power is incredible, and infectious.

One can feel the sheer rush of energy travelling through the lower spine as the rear wheels kick up a cloud of dust and you’re away. VTEC power, we salute you.

But the VTEC is controllable. Those who have driven sports cars in the past will no doubt be familiar with hair-trigger throttles which want to propel you into the scenery at the slightest twitch. This is where the S2000 is different – the progressive power is easily harnessed for pottering around the urban environment, and the car is quite happy to do 30mph. As soon as you smell fresh air in front of you, the power is there if you want it in a rush that will take your breath away and leave you gasping for more. And it’s not that thirsty either, with fuel economies of 28.8mpg on the combined runs.

I had the opportunity to take the soft-top out, and was impressed at the level of driver comfort. The amount of wind noise with the roof down is acceptable and can be drowned out with the head-rest mounted speakers for the stereo. However, one of my six-foot plus colleagues did find his gelled hair sticking slightly above the level of the windscreen and collected a couple of bugs on the way. I did suggest

that he give the gel a miss for the day, but boys will be boys… At my paltry 5’10’’, not so much as a single strand got lifted. And, when the rains came, we only had to wait six seconds for the roof to automatically slot into position.

The driving position is the same as a proper old-school sports car. You nestle deep within the body of the beast, as though connected to the seat, steering wheel and pedals by more than contact alone. You feel as though the car absorbs you, making it part of you and you integral to it. There’s no better feeling than being hugged by the leather seats in the bowels of the beast.

This being a Honda, nothing much needs to be said about the build quality, tactility of interior surfaces or reliability. It’s so good that we don’t need to spend column inches on it.

To answer the sceptics, I’m firmly of the ‘if it ain’t broke…’ school. Why redesign the S2000, when everything is right about it? It’s subtle on the eye, an animal beneath the metal covers. It’s comfortable, impeccably engineered and obviously designed with those who love driving in mind.

All you need is an excuse to get out on the open road and party like it’s 1999…

Try one today from Yeomans Honda to amaze yourself.

47 THE MAGAZINE

*The Magazine Issue4 Neil:The Business Magazine

14/5/07

15:50

Page 48

*The Magazine Issue4 Neil:The Business Magazine

14/5/07

15:50

Page 49

I

f you suffer from vertigo, then a 4x4 may not be the vehicle for you. You ride above the traffic, looking down on the ant-like autos that surround you as you wait at the lights. Any higher and you’d need oxygen. OK, that might be a slight exaggeration, but this is my editorial and I’ll say what I like…

The ride height is actually one of the many reasons that people go for a 4x4 – since you are so far above the traffic, you’re afforded excellent visibility. This is aided and abetted by the fact that Hyundai’s designers haven’t put any of the pillars in the way of your vision, so you really can see all the way around.

While this pays dividends in the back end of beyond (when there might be the odd grizzly wandering about), it’s of far more importance around town with cyclists, pushchairs, Heeleys and bollards all waiting to spring out.

In recent years, 4x4s have come on in leaps and bounds. No longer do you

need arm muscles with riven sinews to change gear nor legs like tree-trunks to push the clutch. In fact, you don’t need to do any of that gratuitous gear shifting in the CDX version I took out – it’s got a tiptronic gear shift linked into a five speed auto ‘box. This means that you can either leave the vehicle to do all of the hard work by itself, or you can flick the shifter into the tiptronic range and nudge it up and down to change gear yourself. Quite nifty.

However, there is one caveat that I discovered while out on the road.

Because I’m a manual kind of person, I insisted on using the tiptronic to start off – and found that the central storage box got in the way somewhat. Perhaps I’ve got a bizarre arm ratio, or maybe the box is just that little bit too high…

After a while I gave up and let the automatic take over.

Aside from the storage box issue, the general cabin ambience of the Santa Fe

By Neil Hopkins

is excellent. The seats are electronically adjustable as well as being heated for those cold mornings. The steering wheel also adjusts, meaning that you can get comfortable quickly. Plus there’s dual zone heating – this allows the front passengers to have one ambience and the rear passengers another. And let’s not forget the steering-wheel mounted cruise control – less useful in the Rocky Mountains than on the A27, but still there none-the-less.

Richmond Hyundai lent me the CDX version of the Santa Fe (diesel, to the rest of us). While the thought of a diesel 4x4 might make some less hardly souls blanch, it actually makes a lot of sense. The 2.0-litre displacement gives the Santa Fe a lot of low down grunt and a more than acceptable rate of acceleration for something so large. It’s also pretty quiet, so there’s no need to reach for the aspirin on long drives through the Sussex countryside. And you get a decent fuel economy out of it as well.

For families, the Santa Fe is pretty much ideal if you’re in the market for a 4x4 (or even if you’re not but open to suggestions). There’s plenty of space inside and many useful cubby-holes to stash half-eaten Mars Bars or route maps. There are also some hidden luggage compartments in the floor of the boot for more important/valuable items. Businesses will appreciate the stylish design (which implies a higher cost than the forecourt ticket price) and versatility on offer.

In terms of safety, there are airbags all over the place, ABS and ESP (electronic stability control) to keep you out of trouble and self-levelling suspension on the seven-seat version. It’s a good package, of that there can be no doubt.

If you’re in the mood for an affordable yet capable 4x4 and want a few more refinements than you might normally expect, you could do a lot worse than giving the Santa Fe a blast around Arun.

I think that you’ll be pretty surprised by your reaction…

49 THE MAGAZINE

ROAD TEST

4x4s are here to stay – no matter what the ‘next Prime Minister’ does with his little red briefcase. In this edition of The Magazine, we look at Hyundai’s Santa Fe and ask – gas guzzling behemoth or capable and sensible?

HYUNDAI SANTA FE

Nothing fe(y) about this Santa

TOYOTA LANDCRUISER PRADO

ROAD TEST

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SIZE really doesn’t matter

By Miriam Nicholls

This is the last vehicle on earth that I thought I’d road test.

I’ve had a life-long hatred of 4x4s – especially ones this big.

Out in the back of beyond, scaling mountains, rescuing sheep from trees or wherever they get stuck; yes, I can see the point.

But around town? I laughed at their Chelsea Tractor-ness.

B

ut then again, what’s life if you don’t try new experiences? So I thought ‘what the heck’ when offered an imported Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (carefully chosen from the vast range of vehicles on Barnham Car Centre’s forecourt). ‘Let’s give it a go,’ I said to myself. ‘What’s the worst that can happen?’

Now, I’m not the most lofty of people (as I’m sure that my colleagues will attest), so getting in was somewhat interesting to start off with. I tried the Frosby Flop, the scissor kick, no good. Thankfully, I then spotted the screamer handle, and used this to spring into the gigantic behemoth.

For the uninitiated, a ‘screamer handle’ is usually located just above the passenger door and is used by nervous passengers to cling onto for dear life while screaming at the tops of their lungs as you negotiate the A27.

Once I’d caught my breath and stopped looking for the oxygen masks that I was sure should be located in the roof, it was time to look around. As I expected, there was plenty of space, more than enough in fact to swallow my current daily driver whole. Several times over. Since there are eight seats (the rear ones fold away to give you some boot space), the Prado really needs an intercom system for you to talk to those in the back – or you need a good set of lungs and ear plugs for the nearer passengers.

Space aside, it was unexpectedly comfortable and, dare I say it, quiet and luxurious. This is the top of the Toyota Land Cruiser range, and as such there are refinements everywhere.

Slightly more important than the level on luxury however was the experience out of the road. Put aside all preconceptions of dirty, noisy, slow and dull 4x4s – this one moved like a greased eel thanks to the intercooled engine out the front. The steering was very sensitive (ideal around town), the pedals well spaced and the whole driving ambience not far short of perfect. The size of the Prado and the solid build quality gives you an unparalleled sense of security and general invincibility One mistake I made when going for this

THE MAGAZINE 50

test drive was to take one of my friends along. Don’t get me wrong, he’s a great guy, but he’s a petrolhead of the worst sort. So you can imagine how his eyes lit up when he saw the Prado. He instantly started to waffle on about how it was based on the Hilux Surf (1996 on) with the same chassis, engine etc etc. This, apparently, is a good thing as all those who have ever driven a Surf will know. I haven’t so I didn’t but I do now…

Things didn’t improve when we were out on the road. This being an imported version, there were little Japanese-y bits everywhere. The speedo was still in km/h (good job my mental maths is up to dividing by 1.6 as we went through the speed traps) although it would be converted to MPH on sale; there’s Japanese script on some of the displays and so on. But what my friend was most impressed with was the central instrument binnacle. At the touch of a button, you can see your average speed, altitude, barometer readings and outside temperature. Then there’s the pitch/roll indicator and compass. While I can’t see much of a use for these things in the supermarket car park, my friend assured me that they were just what you needed when scaling dizzying heights. Like he’d know – the highest he’s ever been is to the top of St Mary’s Church, Littlehampton (and even then he got dizzy).

And it went on like this while I was trying to get to grips with the Prado, so I decided that there was only one way to stop the tirade of technicality (fascinating though I’m sure that it is). A challenge and an answer to the age old question – who is better at reverse parking: men or women? The rules: only one attempt to park between the lines in a pub car park.

The prize: the winner being treated to lunch at the restaurant of their choice. The game was on.

I let him go first, it was only polite (and gave me a moment out of the car to clear my head from the technogabble). I must say that it wasn’t a bad attempt – he swung the Land Cruiser confidently in the space, stopping about three foot shy of the back of the space and slightly on the

diagonal into one of the adjoining spaces.

You should have seen his face – confidence draining into uncertainty.

I did have my reservations about this particular challenge – nothing to do with my parking ability I hasten to add. The Land Cruiser feels big, looks big and the pub spaces looked very small. In fact, I was surprised at the visibility on offer and ease with which it could be slotted into a space.

On hopping down from the vehicle, I was gratified to see that not only had I nestled it deep into the space, but that it was also perfectly straight. And the news flash of the day – the Land Cruiser actually fits into a normal sized car space… This is probably due to the fact that the car’s footprint is actually no bigger than a Mercedes estate.

With that challenge won, all that was left was for me to collect my winnings and enjoy the new-found silence from my suitably sheepish friend. Somewhere where the starters are £50 a pop with main courses at least double that should do…

In all seriousness, victories aside, the Land Cruiser is remarkably easy to get around in. You soon get used to the sheer bulk of the thing, and with the pace/manoeuvrability, it makes a surprising amount of sense. This is compounded if you’ve got a large family – the eight seats would really come into their own and everyone would still enjoy leg room. It’s easy to drive and certainly no more thirsty than the average large estate car.

Maintenance, I’m told, is largely minimal and a lot less costly than one might expect (obviously I couldn’t judge this from a test drive, but am just going on what the petrolhead told me). With the levels of comfort, luxury and individuality that befits an imported Toyota, I found myself revising my opinions somewhat.

For 4x4 hater to 4x4 appreciator in one easy step – that’s what the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado did for me. And, much against my initial impressions, I really would like to get my hands on one for a bit longer – especially as the tax brackets for a pre-2001 4x4 will not change.

There’s a mountain to climb out there, somewhere. Or, if not, I’ll make one out of a molehill and give it a go…

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talk?

Tough new penalties for using hand held mobile phones came in to effect from midnight on February 27th 2007. performing any other interactive communication function’. A device ‘similar’ to a mobile phone includes a device that can be used for sending or receiving spoken or written messages, sending or receiving still or moving images or providing Internet access.

If you accept a roadside fixed penalty notice, you will receive three points on your licence and a fine of £60. If a case goes to court, in addition to points you could face discretionary disqualification on top of a maximum fine of £1,000 (or £2,500 in the case of drivers of buses, coaches and goods vehicles).

The use of a hands-free phone or other equipment is not specifically prohibited because it is difficult for police to see it in use. However if you drive poorly, because you are distracted by a phone conversation for example, the police can prosecute for failing to have proper control of the

vehicle. The same penalty applies – three points and a £60 fine.

If there is an incident or a crash, the use of any phone could be justification for the charges of careless or dangerous driving.

The penalties on conviction for such offences include heavy fines, endorsement, disqualification and - in serious cases imprisonment. Courts are taking a serious view in such cases.

Don’t even think about it...

Car Finder Finance Family Vehicles 4x4 Sports and Prestige Auto Valeting & Detailing

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Barnham Road, Barnham, West Sussex PO22 0ER Tel: 01243 551550 Fax: 01243 554888 e-mail: info@barnhamcarcentre.co.uk web: www.barnhamcarcentre.co.uk

51 THE MAGAZINE

MOTORING

T

he offences of using a hand held mobile phone whilst driving and failing to have proper control of a vehicle are now endorsable. As of February 27th, drivers will automatically have their licence endorsed with three penalty points and will receive a £60 fine – double the previous charge.

Any cases that reach court could involve discretionary disqualification and a maximum fine of £1,000 - or £2,500 in the case of the driver of a bus, coach or goods vehicle.

It is also illegal to supervise a learner and use a hand-held phone. Hands-free phones are also a distraction and you risk prosecution for not having proper control of a vehicle if the police see you driving poorly while using one.

A hand held device is something that ‘is or must be held at some point during the course of making or receiving a call or

MOBLIE PHONE LAW

to

*The Magazine Issue4 Neil:The Business Magazine

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Page 52

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