The newsletter of the Huddersfield Town Centre Partnership
Issue 59
Winter 2011
In this edition
Huddersfield Town Page 2
Ramsdens
Page 9
SUPPORTED BY
HTCPL forges new link with the ‘Huddersfield Eye’
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he Huddersfield Town Centre Partnership Limited is delighted to announce that they are now to work closely with the Huddersfield Eye, to take forward their shared vision to promote independent, local Huddersfield town centre retail businesses and trades of all kinds in Huddersfield. The HTCPL was established as an independent company in 2000 as a not-for-profit organisation and has grown in strength over the years. Part of what the HTCPL does is the promotion and marketing of the town through events – the ever-growing Huddersfield Food & Drink Festival being its biggest – various publications and networking, with its main focus being supporting local businesses by encouraging business to business interaction within the local economy. For more details of what the HTCPL gets involved in, turn to the back page. Robert Exley, Director of Clearview Publishing Ltd, owners of the ‘Eye’ said of the new link: “We already share many aims and by working together, we believe that we can achieve much more. “Our combined knowledge and experience will prove to be invaluable in keeping the Huddersfield business and trade community firmly “on the map”. We can use our considerable expertise to push forward the boundaries to generate more business and attract more interest in our area – an area that has so much to offer.”
He added: “For the ‘Eye‘, receiving the support of the Partnership is a very welcome accolade and provides both organisations with even greater opportunities to serve the trade and business community for the benefit of all.” “Since becoming totally independent in June this year, we have taken on all responsibility for funding, marketing and all the other functions of the Partnership,” said Cathy Burger, HTCPL Partnership Manager. “It is early days, but we are very pleased with how things are developing and have many other plans already in place to promote and increase the numerous benefits of membership of the HTCPL with this partnership with the Huddersfield Eye being just one of them. “Forging close links with the Huddersfield Eye is a significant step in the right direction for the Partnership, and we look forward to working with the Eye’s experienced media team to continue our work,” Cathy said. Stephen Pollitt, Chairman of the HTCPL commented: “Membership of the HTCPL offers local businesses in Huddersfield lots of opportunities to publicise themselves and the goods and services they offer, and to work with us in marketing Huddersfield and enhancing its image and status in every way. We are confident that local people will want to be involved, and wish to support this venture which has at its core, the future prosperity of our town.”
To support the Partnership’s aims the ‘Eye’ will be selling membership of the HTCPL on their behalf, and offering substantial discounts on ‘Eye’ advertising to any business joining the Partnership. Stephen Sidebottom, also a Director of Clearview Publishing Ltd added: “Since we launched our very successful Huddersfield Eye, we have worked hard to make it an integral part of this community, a magazine that both informs and entertains. “We are confident that, working closely with the HTCPL, we can be instrumental in raising Huddersfield’s profile and helping local businesses thrive, which is particularly important in these difficult times.” The Huddersfield Eye is a free magazine and is available to pick up in many local businesses as well as in Kingsgate. www.htcpl.org.uk
Welcome new members
pages 2, 3 & 4
New member Huddersfield Town AFC
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e are delighted to welcome our local football club as new members of the HTCPL. Formed in 1908, Huddersfield Town has one of the proudest histories of any club in English football.
Recognised as one of the most successful English clubs of all
time, HTAFC were the first to win the English League title three times in a row in 1924, 1925 and 1926. This is a feat that has only been repeated by three other teams; Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool. The Club embarked upon a ‘New Era’ when Dean Hoyle became Chairman in 2009. They have formed innovative partnerships with Kirklees College, Thornton + Ross and Umbro to name a few. Their unique collaboration with the Yorkshire Air Ambulance has raised over £370,000 since its inception in 2009, and the club also supports local charities and fellow HTCPL members Kirkwood Hospice and the Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice. During the ‘New Era’, Huddersfield Town has been nominated
for an impressive nine accolades at the Football League Awards, scooping the titles of ‘Family Club of the Year’ and ‘Best Matchday Programme’ as well as being highly commended in the Marketing and Community categories. The current Football League Independent Supporters Survey ranks Huddersfield Town first out of all 72 Clubs at communication with supporters, attracting new fans and creating a matchday experience. Huddersfield Town spokesman Sean Jarvis said: “As a Club that prides itself on its community involvement, the Town Centre Partnership is perfect for us. We have worked together on previous occasions, such as on the 2010 Christmas Lights switch-on, and we also wanted to formalise the relationship and work together on as many community projects as possible moving forward.” 01484 484123 www.htafc.com Twitter: @htafcdotcom Facebook: www.facebook.com/officialhuddersfieldtown
Welcome to Living Modern Life
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e wish a warm welcome to new Partnership members Living Modern Life. The company was established by Russell Clark (pictured right) who has access to a broad spectrum of qualified associates through his membership of the Coaching Circle. According to Russell: “The Coaching Circle is a highly co-operative association and gives the coaches within it - all trained to post-graduate level - access to resources, guidance and over 200 associates. This means that larger pieces of work or those covering wide geographic areas can be effectively managed.” He added: “I am also regulated by the
National Council of Psychotherapists, which
coaching, training, facilitation and workplace
ensures that I keep my skills up to date by undertaking continuous personal development
mediation. Personal coaching, which is unique to the client, includes areas such as career
and practice supervision.” After serving 30 years in a wide variety of roles with West Yorkshire Police, Russell
choice, relationships, coping with redundancy, achieving goals and life changes. Russell has a particular interest in two areas
decided to train as a coach. He explained why: “Because of the successes I had in developing staff, the real pleasure I got in seeing people
of personal coaching: Stress Management and Being Your Natural Weight. He has joined the HTCPL to get to know and
achieve their goals, and interest I’d had in aspects of psychology for over 20 years. “I wanted to do it professionally, so I
build great relationships with as many of the business community in Huddersfield as possible. He confirmed: “It is obviously an
undertook a post-graduate qualification from Chester University.” Living Modern Life provides a full range of
energetic and dynamic group and my first breakfast meeting convinced me that it was worth the time and cost of joining.”
business and personal coaching. Business services include leadership coaching, group
07900 527036 www.livingmodernlife.com
Joining the HTCPL is Pennine Business Partners
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ew members Pennine Business Partners are a marketing and business development consultancy based in the Colne Valley. Established by Steve Bradley in 2010, the company provides practical, pro-active and pragmatic marketing and advertising support for businesses small and large.
Steve explained: “Pennine Business Partners add marketing excellence to organisations. We work in unison with in-house marketing teams, on a project basis or (more often) provide a fully outsourced marketing solution. “Outsourcing marketing, communications and
collateral management gives our clients a
includes a review of all current marketing and PR
flexible, high quality resource that can be quickly switched on and off or adjusted to suit their
activity including budget deployment, performance monitoring and return on
“Whatever our clients need, they benefit
directly from the results of a robust strategy, extensive multi-channel experience and hands
needs.
investment. The health check looks
on implementation,” said Steve. “Our approach
“Working closely with our clients we develop a full and objective
to identify current areas of strength and weakness and highlight areas
is straightforward and transparent, and because no two organisations are the same, all marketing
understanding of their business and goals. This results in effective,
for potential growth and performance improvement. On
services are tailored to meet individual requirements.”
focused marketing solutions that deliver results where they matter – the bottom line.”
appointment, the company will then undertake a thorough and detailed review of all marketing and media
Steve has joined the HTCPL “to become more involved with Huddersfield’s vibrant business community.”
Pennine Business Partners offer a free, no obligation Marketing
activities which will be presented and actionable within the first 100
Health Check to all prospective clients, which
days of a working relationship.
01484 841776 07976 731393 www.penninebusinesspartners.com
Partners in Management Ltd
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ew members Partners in Management are a management training and development organisation that also deliver courses worldwide. Conveniently located at the Media Centre in the centre of town, Partners in Management offer the opportunity for individuals and organisations to develop. The company was founded in 1999 by David Broadhead, a former Huddersfield University lecturer. He welcomes his location in Huddersfield,
saying: “Being at the Media Centre has been
programmes, a main one being the
venue with great facilities and good transport links.
Intrapreneurial Manager programme, which is designed to serve the management
It also provides an inspirational networking community that is actively supporting us in developing and promoting our courses.” The company deliver Chartered Management
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Jigsaw Enterprise Training is a social enterprise, offering personal development and training opportunities to young people and adults, with a focus on those with physical or learning disabilities and those who would benefit from a more interactive approach. The training includes both short taster workshops and fully accredited courses, where participants can gain a qualification through a
recognised awarding body. Courses are designed to meet the needs of
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e are sure that all of our readers will be familiar with the popular local magazine, Huddersfield Eye. We are delighted to welcome them as new members of the Huddersfield Town Centre Partnership. The company, which was established in 2001, employs 20 people. The free magazine is widely distributed and is available to pick up from a large number of town centre retailers and other venues, most recently fellow-members the Kingsgate Shopping Centre. The magazine is published by Clearview UK Ltd, who publish several niche industry magazines as well as the ‘Eye’ series for a number of towns. In the past 2 years the business has gone from strength to strength, with all their main
ingredients for successful businesses in today’s
programmes to individuals and corporate clients
groups based on our RIDFEAR® coaching
across the UK.
methodology. Finally, we facilitate ‘The Forum’, an
training can be delivered at the client’s premises or at public or private training and conference facilities. Jigsaw Enterprise Training also specialises in
disabled people and Looked After Children. The
one-to-one coaching and mentoring. This can
company can, where necessary, help with bidding for external funding for courses, and can also provide associates to work for or alongside any regular or long-term training suppliers already
be offered to complement the courses or on its own for people who feel they would benefit from one-to-one work. Gemma explained her reasons for joining the
in place. According to Gemma: “Our training is fun, interactive and takes into account the varied
Partnership: “I am keen to develop contacts within the local business community. I aim to raise awareness of disability issues and offer
learning needs of all participants. Learners will leave with increased self-esteem and a positive attitude.”
training on these issues. The HTCPL gives me ideal networking opportunities to achieve my aims.”
Huddersfield Eye
David said: “Our focus is on strategic leadership, innovation and change – essential economic environment. “We also deliver self-coaching programmes to
schools, colleges, community groups, Youth Justice providers, housing associations,
Jigsaw Enterprise Training can tailor-make courses to fit individual clients’ requirements. The
development needs of the next decade.
Institute accredited middle and senior management and leadership development
Jigsaw Enterprise Training
ew member Jigsaw Enterprise Training was established in January 2011 by Gemma Blagbrough to address employment and learning barriers that she, as a disabled person, has faced in order to be able to help other people who may face such barriers.
They also have devised several specialised
really beneficial in that it offers a tremendous
01484 540551 www.jigsaw-training.org
independent think tank of business leaders from across the North of England.” Asked for his reasons for joining the HTCPL, David explained: “We feel that it is vital that we be part of an important local community.” 07957 325336 www.partnersinmanagement.co.uk Photo: David Broadhead
Free business support Kirklees Council’s dedicated business team provide free and confidential support to local businesses including: • advice on setting up a business • signposting to funding and training opportunities • help for businesses looking to expand or relocate • business to business networking.
titles growing by an average of 20%. Director Robert Exley said: “We pride ourselves on being able to deliver a very hands on customer experience. We feel that our new partnership with, and membership of, the HTCPL will mutually benefit both organisations. “We are offering significant discounts on advertising to our fellow members, and we will be actively encouraging all our advertisers to join the Partnership both to receive the discounts and to take advantage of all the other benefits that membership brings to businesses.” For more information about the partnership between the HTCPL and the Huddersfield Eye, see the feature on the front page. 01226 321450 www.clearview-uk.com
Get in touch: Call: 01484 221417 Email: business@kirklees.gov.uk Visit: www.kirklees.gov.uk/business
QBX - The QuickBooks Accountants joins HTCPL
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practice.
e are very pleased to welcome QBX to membership of the Huddersfield Town Centre Partnership. The company was established in 2007 by Jonathan Dawson, and is a QuickBooks specific accountancy
Said Jonathan: “We always try to talk to our clients in language
that they can understand. We aim to make tax and accounts make sense.” The company’s first meeting with potential clients is always free, and they offer all the usual accountancy services. QuickBooks training and support is also available.
QBX offer capped fee quotes, and also offer clients the choice of invoicing or of payment by instalments. After attending one of the bi-monthly breakfast Huddersfield Network meetings organised and run by the HTCPL, Jonathan decided to join. “Our town centre faces more and bigger challenges than it has at any time since I moved to Huddersfield in 1985,” said Jonathan. “The Huddersfield Town Centre Partnership has a big role to play in meeting those challenges, and joining is one small step in supporting the HTCPL and Huddersfield itself.” 01484 428929
Revolution joins HTCPL Austin Kemp Solicitors
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e are delighted that long-standing Huddersfield business Revolution have decided to join the HTCPL. The popular bar and restaurant on Cross Church Street has been entertaining the good people of Huddersfield for the last 13 years. For the last six it has been run by General Manager Anthony Beadsworth. Over the years Revolution has become a household name, known for the wide variety of services they provide, including cocktail master classes, privilege cards offers, company of the week deals, late night parties, business lunches and ‘ladies that lunch’ lunches. The food menu is updated every quarter and the cocktail menu changes
eight times a year. Their food operation has been consistently awarded the highest score of 5 stars by Kirklees Council, they won the latest “best bar none” award for Kirklees and Anthony is chairman of Huddersfield Pub Watch. The bar and management team is highly regarded in the community, having developed strong working relationships with the Police and Licensing. Revolution have robust policies on responsible drinking and anti-social behaviour, and a reputation as a friendly, inclusive and safe venue. In 2011 Revolution invested in its Huddersfield site and undertook a full refurbishment which saw the ceiling raised and the walls stripped back to create a New York loft-style bar; a 100 year old
ew Partnership member Austin Kemp Solicitors is one of Yorkshire’s leading commercial law firms with offices in Huddersfield and Leeds. The firm prides itself on delivering comprehensive legal advice in corporate and commercial matters, commercial property, litigation and family law. domed stained glass light well was also uncovered and restored which has made a stunning feature. Anthony commented on his reasons for joining the HTCPL: “We want to get more involved in the Huddersfield business community and develop relationships with the other businesses in town. “We are also keen have a greater say in shaping ideas for Huddersfield’s late night economy.” He added: “As a way of introducing our business to the HTCPL we would like to offer all members 25% off food, two for one on Becks beer and two for one on glasses of house wine for the month of January!” 01484 546243 www.revolution-bars.co.uk
Senior Partner at Austin Kemp, Amandeep Kooner, said: “Our philosophy combines the talent, resources, capabilities and technologies of a large firm with the flexibility, responsiveness and personal attention of a smaller firm. We have at our cornerstone an obligation and a commitment to our valued clients of integrity, professionalism and timely, efficient delivery of quality legal services. “We make it a priority to engross ourselves in our clients' businesses so that we fully understand the context of
their legal issues. By being fully aligned with their legal and business objectives, our commercial lawyers are able to deliver creative, integrated solutions that add value to our clients. Ultimately Austin Kemp is grounded in the reality that what matters most is our clients.” The firm also has a strong commitment to the local community, with a pro bono program in which their commercial lawyers give their time, resources and talent to serve individuals and organisations in need. They are also active in fundraising for local charities. Amandeep explained his reasons for joining the HTCPL: “I was born and raised in Huddersfield and think the town is great. “As solicitors conducting our business in Huddersfield, I thought it was important to join the Partnership.” 01484 483003. www.austinkemp.co.uk
Success Unbridled
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ur featured member this issue is Success Unbridled, a business with a difference. Success Unbridled is headed up by Heidi Dawson, who prides herself on the personal and attentive experience she gives to her clients.
Heidi enjoyed a successful 15-year-long career as a health and safety professional, but always felt there was something missing. So, during this time she also trained as a coach and hypnotherapist. She finally took the plunge in 2006, leaving behind her 'safe' corporate role to launch a company called Pathways Coaching. “We offer a wide range of success-focussed programmes from equine assisted learning and hypnotherapy to business, team and personal coaching - all of which can be tailored to meet our clients’ exact needs,” said Heidi. “I work with a team of trusted associates to deliver specialist projects as and when needed, ensuring clients get the most personalised and tailored service possible. We all know what it takes to change careers, manage staff and run a business because we've done it ourselves. We've all had lives too, so have experienced plenty of ups and downs in that area as well!” After four years of successful growth, Heidi felt that the ‘Pathways Coaching’ brand was starting to put the business in a pigeonhole that no longer reflected the company's progressive ethos. “It was starting to hold us in the past, when we're all about successful futures.” So, in 2010, Pathways Coaching was re-branded and re-launched as Success Unbridled to reflect the changing shape of the business. “There are many ways to become more successful and often it’s about being prepared to do things differently,” Heidi explained. “Equine Assisted Coaching is undeniably different. It’s a great way for people to learn about themselves and the way they influence other people. “Horses don’t do ‘role play’; they provide instant and honest feedback based on how we are behaving around them. So, if you want to develop effective leadership skills, create a cohesive and confident team and be clear with your communication and people skills … ask a horse to lead the way! “Equine Assisted Coaching combines non-directive coaching and facilitation with experiential learning to create individual and team development programmes that have a lasting impact on performance.” Heidi continued: “During the first year of Success Unbridled, I conducted the Equine Assisted Learning/Equine Assisted Coaching side of my work from a livery yard, where I had one horse of my own and paid to hire additional
ponies when I needed them. This gave me the opportunity to test the market and see if there was work of this type out there, which there clearly was. “On 1 October 2011, I moved this part of the business to my own premises, and now have a small EAL/EAC centre of my own, with three horses and a fourth due to arrive at the end of November.’’ Heidi has two main markets for the EAL/EAC work. She works with young people to support their social and emotional development needs, and works with businesses to help their managers and teams develop skills in the areas of leadership, team development and communication. She is also now running a series of open workshops called Horse Power, where clients look at how they can influence others with their body language to make a real impact and create positive results. Heidi added: I'm still offering the more conventional side of my work too - not everyone wants to do horsey stuff, although you don't even need to like horses to get involved with EAL/EAC and there's no riding involved with the workshops.” 01484 428930 www.successunbridled.co.uk 90 New North Road Huddersfield HD1 5NE
Winners of Huddersfield in Bloom
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inners of this year’s Huddersfield In Bloom competition were announced at an award ceremony held on Monday 10 October at Bradley’s Restaurant. Prizes were awarded for first, second and third
place both inside the ring road and for businesses further afield. Overall winners were Villa Farm Shop from Bradley who were presented with the Huddersfield Civic Society Rose Bowl for Floral Excellence. Huddersfield In Bloom judges agreed
that while all the premises they visited had obviously taken a lot of care, Villa Farm Shop had gone that extra mile and looked really outstanding. The judges added: “The award ceremony is our way of saying thank you to all the businesses that help make Huddersfield a nice place to live, work and do business. “Huddersfield has looked really lovely this summer. Kirklees supplied more than 40 barrels, 56 barrier planters and over 250 hanging baskets and planters, and weather conditions have meant that hanging baskets and planters have lasted a
lot longer this year.” Partnership Manager Julia Lilof added: “The council’s Bradley Nurseries want to let businesses know that they can sponsor floral displays in the town centre including planters, lamppost baskets and flowerbeds. Prices start from as little as £100. Anyone interested should contact Kirklees Bradley Nursery on 01484 414700 or email bradley.nurseries@kirklees.gov.uk.” Photo: Sam Gill and Sue Kershaw from Villa Farm
Fantastic Festival of Light
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he Festival of Light in Huddersfield is fast approaching – the dates for this year are Friday 2 to Sunday 4 December. The HTCPL are participating by putting on a Food and Drink Market along New Street. Building on last year’s success, the Market will feature over 25 different businesses selling everything from olives to Christmas cake and cheese to chocolate.
Police News
C thefts.
hristmas is always a busy time of year in the town centre, which can result in an increase in crime, particularly shoplifting and purse and mobile phone
From mid-November until Christmas in Huddersfield town centre officers in plain clothes will work alongside uniformed officers to target offenders and work closely with local businesses to reduce town centre crime. Officers will also be speaking to shoppers and offering crime prevention advice. Recently foil lined bags have been utilised in shops so that security tagged items fail to set off the alarms, as reported in the last Inside Huddersfield newsletter. This trend is continuing, and the police urge staff to be on the lookout for bags that appear very stiff or as though they are full of goods prior to walking into the store. From 5 September to 30 October 2011 there were 97 shoplifting offences in Huddersfield town centre, of which 60 have been detected.
During the same period there were 46 theft
from person offences reported. In eight of the offences the victims were over 65 years of age. The peak time for the offences was between 11am and 3pm. Wednesday was the busiest day. In the night time economy, there were a total of 25 violent crime offences in Huddersfield town centre during October between 8pm and 5am, with the peak time being 3am. This is a 24% reduction on the previous month. The busiest street was Cross Church St. At the bi-monthly retail meeting on Thursday 10 November two local Magistrates delivered a presentation, which was very informative and appreciated by those present. Sergeant Mandy Mellor said: “I would encourage staff/security staff from shops and stores to attend the retail meetings as they are very informative and it is a chance to exchange information and intelligence.’’ The next meeting is on Thursday 12 January 2012 at Wilkinsons store on New St.
There will also be stalls selling hot food and real ales. Over the past few years the festival has grown from being a single night show in St George’s Square to a much bigger programme which stretches over the whole weekend and town centre. Last year over 25,000 people came to the festival and this year it is expected to be even more. There is still time to get involved, with Kirklees council encouraging hotels, restaurants and retailers to run special offers and fringe events
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hristmas - `tis the season to be jolly’, so the last thing you need to worry about is finding a parking space on a busy shopping day, rushing back to feed the meter when there are more prezzies still to get, or missing out on the festive fizz because you’ve got to drive home. So why not relax, make your journeys by train or by bus and leave the driving all up to us? This year make an early new year’s resolution and leave your car on the drive. Find out all the details on public transport during the festive season by: ● Visiting www.wymetro.com ● Ringing MetroLine on 0113 245 7676 (7.00 till 10.00pm. Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day) ● Calling in at a bus station travel centre ● Texting your bus stop asset number to ‘Metro’ for the latest real-time information
which they will promote on the website and on social media such as facebook and twitter. The council are also encouraging businesses to spread the word about the event by putting up festival fliers and posters. To promote a special offer, a fringe event or to request posters and fliers, or for more details, contact Susie Richmond on 01484 416722 or email susie.richmond@kirklees.gov.uk www.huddersfieldlightfest.co.uk
for your bus service. And don’t forget, buses will be running on Boxing Day into Leeds and Huddersfield approximately every half hour from 9am to 6pm on main routes. And the first bargain of the day is an adult all-day bus ticket at £3, accompanied children go free and it’s £1 fare for unaccompanied children. Older children should remember to carry a Young Person’s PhotoCard. Concessionary fares, MetroCards and current operator season tickets will also be valid on the Boxing Day bus services. Operator specific tickets are valid on their services only. Above all, have a fabulous time and take care travelling this Christmas. Season’s greetings from everyone at Metro and the bus and train operators of West Yorkshire.
Conservation at Central Lodge
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uddersfield’s popular Central Lodge (left) is helping to conserve parts of the town centre. The Lodge, owned by brothers Joe and Johnny Marsden, incorporates many items that could have been lost during a number of demolition and modernisation projects. When the Yorkshire stone flags were removed in parts of Kirkgate and replaced with tarmac they bought the flags and used them to create a pathway between the Central Lodge and the Central Mews.
The Lodge and Mews steps were reclaimed from Cambridge Road Baths during their
K H&M.
A Facebook campaign with more than 3500
supporters named “Get an H&M in Huddersfield” ultimately proved successful. Centre Manager Jonathan Hardy said: “We
The solid wood carving of the Huddersfield
demolition, and Yorkshire stone from Mill Hill Hospital was used to build the Central Lodge
Borough coat of arms, currently a feature on the Central Lodge frontage, was originally on the
conservatory.
side of the old Methodist Mission.
According to Joe: “During the building of the conservatory we removed the tarmac and found
The brothers rescued, restored and repainted it when the building was demolished.
underneath dozens of Yorkshire setts (cobbles).
A large double-sided clock approximately one
We were delighted to be able to relocate these to our car park to match existing setts. “When the Joyville building on Lord Street burnt down we purchased the stone windows and door arches and have located them in our
metre in diameter which was located above Brewers Jewellers on John William Street is now being restored and will eventually have a new home at the Central Lodge. Joe said: “In our conservatory we have a large display cabinet featuring books,
Major new tenants now in Kingsgate ingsgate Shopping Centre has helped to put Huddersfield on the map, with popular stores such as Republic, River Island, New Look and, most recently,
car park to make a feature wall.”
pamphlets, photographs and scrap books all on the subject of local history. This mini library is very popular with visiting guests.” The Central Lodge Huddersfield is number one on Tripadvisor.com in Huddersfield and number two of 224 hotels in West Yorkshire.
listened to what our shoppers were asking for
01484 515551 www.centrallodge.com
and we delivered.” He added: “With new stores such as LaSenza and Pandora opening just in time for Christmas, we aim to increase the number of customers each week, and bring more shoppers into Huddersfield.” 01484 542777 www.huddersfieldkingsgate.co.uk
Alexandra House anniversary
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he staff at Alexandra House Holistic Health and Well-being Spa celebrated their recent fourth anniversary by welcoming their 7,900th guest.
The Spa has gone from strength to strength since it was first established by Maxine Stead in 2007. The last four years have seen Alexandra house receive accolades including: a ‘4 bubbles’ rating from the Good Spa Guide; listing in the Observer Magazine’s Top 10 Most Affordable Spas in Britain feature; inclusion in the 30 Most Inspiring Spas for 2011 in the magazine Professional Beauty; and runner up in the annual Eaton Smith Business Awards 2011. Maxine commented: “Reaching our fourth anniversary, in a time when services like those we offer are considered by many to be a non-essential luxury, is fantastic. I
think we have sustained our growth – even through a recession – because we offer a friendly and personal service with great offers. “Allowing people to relax, unwind and forget about the outside world for a time can make it easier for our clients to see things more clearly and approach life’s challenges with renewed vigour and a positive attitude.” Staff from Alexandra House also offered some of their own spa treatments to delegates at this year’s Kirklees Business Conference. The delegates could choose from either a relaxing foot rub or Indian head massage in the Conference’s specially created Chill Out Zone. There was no charge for the treatments, but those who indulged were asked instead to make a donation to the Spa’s chosen charity – Kirkwood Hospice. 01484 303786 www.alexandrahouse.org.uk
Argentine Steaks
Argentine Steaks Cooked to Perfection
Great selection of starters and home made desserts. Exclusive Hot Rock Grill. Bringing to your table a great experience. Good selection of wines and beer from South America
A DIFFERENT WAY TO ENTERTAIN YOUR BUSINESS CLIENTS Open Mon - Sat 5.30pm - 10pm Sun 4pm-9pm Early Bird Mon - Fri 5.30-7pm Sunday 4pm - 6pm
A little bit of Buenos Aires in Huddersfield town centre
37 John William Street Phone 01484 535440 Book your Table Online
www.argentosteakhouse.com
Barrington stars at World Curry Festival
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arrington Douglas, owner of HTCPL members Discovery Bay, is no stranger to demonstrating his culinary skills. He has appeared on television with both Gary Rhodes and Gordon Ramsay and is a regular participant at the HTCPL’s annual Huddersfield Food and Drink Festival. Most recently, he was cooking up a storm at the World
Curry Festival in Leeds. The festival took place during the last weekend in September in Victoria Gardens on the Headrow, and drew thousands of people.
Workers popped in for lunch with a difference
and families and couples joined in to watch chefs in action, have a go themselves or just try the array of food on offer. Barrington (pictured right) said: “I’m always glad of an opportunity to spread the word about delicious Caribbean food and, of course, to promote my restaurant and draw visitors to Huddersfield.” 01484 300211 www.discoverybayuk.com
Viral Virtual Huddersfield video
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embers Virtual Huddersfield have just completed their first "viral video" for local charity and fellow HTCPL members The Laura Crane Trust. The short video features top rugby league stars in a comic situation. According to Simon Flatley of Virtual Huddersfield:
“The success of a viral video is the way it is passed around the internet by friends and colleagues.
A simple text number allows a donation direct to the charity.” The video was premiered at The Laura Crane Trust’s Crystal Ball in October and is now on their website. Simon added: “Virtual Huddersfield’s videos are a cost effective way to get any message across. We are currently busy with corporate, educational, event, and demonstration projects.” www.virtualhuddersfield.com www.lauracranetrust.org
Key Words success
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ormer publicist to novelists and celebrities from Iain Banks to Whoopi Goldberg, Michelle Hodgson has been delighted with the response to her new Huddersfield-based copywriting business Key Words. Having worked in book PR and as a national newspaper journalist in London for 20 years, Michelle has built up a strong relationship with local businesses since moving to Huddersfield earlier this year. Her clients have ranged from Meltham-based horsebox company Equi-Trek to the new 315 Bar &
Help on hand for town centre workers
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he Huddersfield Town Centre Workplace Chaplaincy, members of the HTCPL, was set up to provide a faith-based support service for anyone working in the town centre.
Town Centre Chaplain Gill Atkinson-Heck said: “Our aim is to engage with people in their daily activities and share their concerns and issues. “We lend an ear to help to support workers with
bereavement problems and relationship breakdowns as well as helping to celebrate special occasions such as marriages and births.” The Chaplaincy already covers some 80% of the shops around Huddersfield. They would encourage any business or worker interested in support to contact them. 01484 424461 www.huddersfieldmission.org.uk/chaplaincy.htm
Restaurant in Lepton and she has worked on website copy, sales brochures and marketing campaigns for other HTCPL members such as Mosaic Office, PrintPod and Yorkshire Business Growth. A recent Key Words networking event attracted around 50 local businesses and Michelle is planning
further networking events in the near future. 01484 430228 www.key-words.co.uk Photo: Michelle Hodgson
Ramsdens Law Firm of the Year
R
amsdens Solicitors have a lot to shout about at the minute having scooped the prestigious Law Firm of the Year (11-30 partners category) Award at the recent Yorkshire Lawyer Awards. Paul Joyce, Managing Partner at Ramsdens,
commented: “Winning Law Firm of the Year puts our regional practice on the map and is a real tribute to the hard work and determination of our entire team. “Our firm will continue to focus on delivering value and stellar service to clients, and on attracting and retaining talented and ambitious individuals to help us achieve our goal of making Ramsdens as strong as it can be. “A huge thank you to our clients and colleagues for helping us win Law Firm of the
Year 2011.” Joyce has led two mergers in the last three years, firstly with Rice Jones in 2009 and more recently in November 2010 with law firm Whitfield Hallam Goodall. The firm now boasts eight office locations across Kirklees and Calderdale with over 140 staff and 18 partners. The firm is well-respected in the market having also been recognised as a ‘Leading Firm’ in the Legal 500 2011 edition, recognising excellent practice in seven key areas. The Legal 500 series, now in its 25th year, is widely acknowledged as the world’s largest legal referral guide, assessing firms on size, resources and also client recommendations in a particular field. This year, more than 180,000 in-house
counsel and lawyers were surveyed and interviewed globally. The Legal 500 is an independent guide, and firms and individuals are recommended purely on merit. 01484 821500
www.ramsdens.co.uk Photo: (L-R) Neil Clark (Restore – category sponsor), Paul Joyce (Managing Partner at Ramsdens), Gaynor Barnes (ITV & Calendar News) and John Fryer (Senior Partner at Ramsdens)
A treat for the ladies
T
he annual 'Ladies who Lunch' event organised by HTCPL members Huddersfield Town AFC took place on Friday 18 November in the Revell Ward Suite at the Stadium.
Watch Town in style
N
ew Partnership members Huddersfield Town AFC are pleased to offer their new 'Heritage Suite', sponsored by Andy Thornton Ltd, on a match-by-match basis for the remainder of the 2011/12 season. The box, which is suited in the Direct Golf UK stand, is designed to feel like an early post-war Boardroom. It holds a maximum of 16 guests and prices per match start from £675 plus VAT. Upon arrival guests will receive a tour of the Stadium and have an audience with two of the Directors before lunch in the Suite. A two
course lunch will then be served before all the action kicks off at 3pm on a Saturday or 7.45pm on a weeknight. Guests will also be treated to player visits from those who are injured or not involved in the match day squad. Also available will be a number of the club's match day programmes. Included in the package are two reserved car parking spaces in the St Andrews Road car park. 01484 484140 commercial@htafc.com Photo: HTAFC player Jack Hunt visiting a party in the Heritage Suite
The event sees private boxes being turned into boutiques, where guests can shop or simply pamper themselves prior to lunch. 'Town's Shopping Village' opened from 11am for some well-deserved retail therapy along with a glass of champagne for those browsing the boutiques. A two-course lunch was followed by the showcase event - a stunning fashion show courtesy of fellow members House of Fraser, including clothing from Coast, Mango, Linea, Therapy, Label Lab, FCUK, Mint Velvet, Phase
Eight, Yumi, and Dickins and Jones.
were modelled by two of the first team squad and Club
Men’s ranges included clothing from Linea, Criminal,
Ambassador Andy Booth. 01484 484199
Jack Jones and Howick, and
www.htafc.com
University development under way
W
hen there is any redevelopment at the University of Huddersfield that involves demolition, the old materials are recycled whenever possible. This is happening at the new Enterprise and Innovation Centre (EIC), an £11.5 million project that involves the radical remodelling of an old industrial building named Larchfield, which most recently saw service as part of the University’s Business School.
create stylish designer furniture. A new steel frame is being inserted inside Larchfield, and to provide support for this, special foundations had to be dug and inserted, using a miniature piling rig inside the shell of the building. “This was a tricky operation, but successfully handled,” said the University’s Deputy Director of Estates and Facilities, Alan Johnson. “When completed in May 2012, the EIC will have space for up 100 small business tenants and scope for large firms to establish strategic bases. “The ground floor will become an ‘innovation avenue’, where new ideas, equipment and technology will be showcased, alongside the University’s research in fields such as science, technology and business.” 01484 473079 www.hud.ac.uk Photo: the Larchfield building under development
The building will gain an extra tier and a large glass atrium as it is converted into a centre where innovative businesses will be based, as reported in the last issue of the Inside Huddersfield newsletter. As part of the development, the existing roof of Larchfield was removed, exposing giant timber trusses that were more than a century old. They have found their way to a company that will find a good use for them – by using the timber to
Anniversary for Roses Cleaning Business
R
oses Cleaning Services have just completed seven years trading and are looking to grow the business by adding more office cleaning to their commercial side. Networking events organised by the HTCPL have helped the company to secure office cleaning contracts at Bailey Smailes solicitors and Barrett Business Machines, and
Roses Cleaning are now looking for other local businesses which also need their services.
Howard Rose, owner of the company said: “We want to ask businesses: Are you happy with your service? Or feel you are just ready for a change? Why not contact us for a competitive quote.” He added: “The time between Christmas
and New Year is an ideal time to do a professional deep clean, getting the office ready for a fresh start to the new year.” Roses Cleaning offer carpet and curtain cleaning as well as hard floor and upholstery (leather) cleaning for the office and home. 07780 905361 www.rosescleaning.co.uk
More social networking with Design58
H
uddersfield Town Centre around the world. Partnership members The page had over 1,000 likes in the first Design58 are 12 weeks and over 600,000 post views. continually expanding Design58 has also been working with their client base in the social networking field. Huddersfield-based Tendo to market and
Their most recent is a Facebook page,
Let’s Talk Rugby League, that simply does what it says and has fans of the sport from all
commercial grill which will save energy, time
and space as well as producing the best and most succulent grilled food.
promote the Synergy Grill through social
www.facebook.com/LetsTalkRugbyLeague www.synergygrill.com 07906 396858
media.
www.design58.com
The Synergy Grill is a revolutionary
students already in business
F
asta Pasta is a small healthy fast food restaurant situated in a convenient corner of Queensgate Market. The business was the brainchild of two students at the University of Huddersfield, 20 year old Jeffrey Postlethwaite and 22 year old Adam Thompson. They hope the restaurant, which opened on 19 September, will be the first of many. The students run their business alongside studying their respective business degrees at the University of Huddersfield. They employ six staff along with a store manager to make sure their business is run smoothly and properly. The company is moving forward after introducing a scheme giving all students from the University, local colleges and schools a 10% discount. They have recently launched a new menu called the ‘Quid’s in’ range, offering four brand new pasta options to the already diverse menu. Fasta Pasta and their other ideas have already been presented to well respected business professionals, such as Theo Paphitis, Clare Young and Leon Doyle from this year’s The Apprentice. Jeff and Adam envisage their business expanding deep into the Yorkshire region and plan to open more Fasta Pasta restaurants in the near future to really drive this exciting business venture on and make it a great success.
Five year anniversary for TaxAssist
N
ick Brook is celebrating five years of helping small businesses across Huddersfield and the Holme and Colne Valleys to look after their accountancy and tax affairs. As a local business owner himself, Nick, of TaxAssist Accountants on Lockwood Road, knows the pressures they face, particularly in the current climate. “Our success is only possible through the support of local
Kirklees Business Conference 2011
K
BC ’11 took place at the Galpharm Stadium in September and yet again proved a big hit to the record 750+ businesses in attendance. Consisting of a full programme of business specific seminars, an exhibition hall housing 60 local companies, a clinic where you could cure your business ills, a chill out room and unlimited networking for all involved, KBC is an annual event tasked with encouraging Kirklees businesses to develop closer trade links. Keynote speaker Dean Hoyle said: “Kirklees Business Conference is our district’s flagship business event and I am proud to have been asked to participate and impart my knowledge to the local business community. “KBC is key to the success of the Kirklees economy.” One of the companies involved at KBC was Barrett Business Machines, fellow members of the Huddersfield Town Centre Partnership. They showcased their range of office stationery and essentials for today's office, including paper shredders and seating. Barrett Business Machines Managing Director James Walsh said: “We found the exhibition to be very successful, and we acquired a number of business leads and new orders.” 07904 873202 www.hilrich.co.uk
business and I’m extremely grateful for my clients’ backing,” said
years ago. He now advises some 330 local businesses, employs
Nick. “We’re getting increasing interest from local consultants and
a team of four and is a keen supporter of the University of
freelance operators as well as service providers, small retailers and traders and we’re looking forward to many more years looking after
Huddersfield’s job creation scheme. TaxAssist Accountants is the largest national network of
their tax and accountancy needs.”
independent accountants working specifically for small
A former finance manager, Nick, who lives in Holmfirth, established the TaxAssist Accountants Huddersfield business five
businesses. 01484 424961 or nickbrook@taxassist.co.uk.
Great grants from One Community
F
ollowing their launch just one year ago, the Kirklees Community Foundation ‘One Community’ presented their inaugural grants to 21 local charities and community groups at the Galpharm Stadium on Wednesday 9 November. The grants have come from three of the Foundation’s funds: The Ken Davy Fund, John L Brierley Fund and Longley Farm
what’s on at huddersfield town hall... Kate Rusby Christmas with Kate Wed 14th December Tickets £20
Jethro
Fund. Sir John Harman, Chairman of One Community, said: “We are
Sat 17th December Tickets £18.50
very pleased to be able to make our first tranche of grants to local groups, especially in this present
Jongleurs Comedy on Tour
climate of public spending cutbacks. “The funds were three times
Thu 9th February and Thu 7th June Tickets £11
Sarah Millican
oversubscribed, which just goes to show the level of need that exists
Thoroughly Modern Millican
locally.” Companies and individuals
Magic of Motown
looking to allocate their charitable giving can contact the foundation for advice and management of charitable funds. The foundation has a thorough understanding of local needs and can help donors direct funding to areas of most need across Kirklees. 01484 468397 www.one-community.org.uk Photo: Sir John Harman
Live on Tour!
Wed 18th April
Tickets £20
Sat 17th March Tickets £20
Beyond the Barricade Fri 18th May Tickets £17
kirklees.gov.uk / townhalls 01484 223200
The newsletter of the Huddersfield Town Centre Partnership
What the HTCPL does for Huddersfield, your town
Become part of your local community by joining the HTCPL today. The Huddersfield Town Centre Partnership Ltd, a non-funded organisation, devotes its energies to promoting Huddersfield to help bring visitors to town and to support your business. Here is a brief list of the main things the HTCPL does to keep Huddersfield and its businesses strong and growing: ● Lobbies the Council on issues such as car parking, night time economy, cleansing and other operational issues that affect the town centre. ● Lobbies the Police on issues such as safety,
street drinkers and other retail crime. ● Manages the retail/pub radio system which has over 180 users and is instrumental in ensuring that retailers and pubs have a link in with CCTV, other retailers, Police and Community Rangers. All HTCPL members get a significant discount on yearly subscriptions. ● In conjunction with the Police, organises the Retail Crime Partnership where retailers have access to photographs of prolific offenders and get to know about other crime that is happening in the town.
● Promotes the town through monthly publications with the Huddersfield Eye. ● Promotes businesses in the town through a quarterly newsletter. ● Lets businesses know what is happening in the town centre via the quarterly newsletter. ● Has access to yearly footfall and vacancy rate figures to help let management make informed decisions. These figures are available to HTCPL members. ● Keeps a detailed database of town centre and member businesses that is made available
to HTCPL members. ● Organises local networking meetings that encourage business-to-business trading. ● Organises local retail networking meetings so that local retailers get to know one another. ● Promotes local business-to-business discounts. ● Promotes the town through various publications. ● Organises the Huddersfield Food and Drink Festival, bringing 100,000 visitors to the town in August.
Focus On: the Huddersfield Network The breakfast Huddersfield Network organised by the HTCPL has been helping Huddersfield businesses to make connections for seven years. The business breakfasts take place at Cafe Society, 15 Byram Street, in the town centre on the second and fourth Thursdays of every month. Here are some comments from members who attend: “I have been a member of the HTCPL for the past two years. The breakfast meetings are really enjoyable and have allowed me to meet people who I would now class as friends. Referrals are also generated and we have had recently the pleasure of auditing the books of a local pantomime company as a favour for one of the members.” Frances Clarke, The Financial Management Centre “Over the past few years, my membership of a number of networking groups has lapsed as they weren't delivering value to me or my business. Throughout that period I have retained my HTCPL membership and have attended the majority of meetings; I have built up some fantastic personal and business relationships. The HTCPL’s Huddersfield Network has consistently delivered opportunities and has proved exceptional value for money.” Paul Scott, Yorkshire Business Growth
“Explore what other businesses do, meet new people and share your business with others. The HTCPL breakfast meeting is a relaxed way of building contacts and doing business in Huddersfield.” Martin Page, P2 Technologies “I have been attending the HTCPL business breakfasts for almost five years and it has been fantastic. Without this meeting we would all be passing each other in the street without giving each other the time of day. But because of this meeting I have made many friends and contacts as well as doing business along the way. “If I know anyone setting up in business I point them the way to networking - especially the Huddersfield Network which in the five years I have attended has grown rapidly in numbers. It has also been great for advice and help business-wise.” Howard Rose, Roses Cleaning
The Food and Drink Festival in St George's Square, Huddersfield, just one of the annual events organised by HTCPL