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IAN KELLETT Plans motoring ahead
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SIMON KAYE Eurozone revival? Column - Page 5
An EXAMINER publication
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS The business NEWSpaper for Kirklees
Building careers go in the spotlight
JOBLESS people in Kirklees have been given a career kick-start in construction through the delivery of a national training scheme by Wates Living Space. Over-19s from Huddersfield, Batley and Liversedge who have been struggling to get into work completed the national Building Futures scheme, which gives jobseekers an opportunity to take part in construction skills training to improve employment prospects. The two-week programme saw them learn a variety of practical skills such as carpentry, tiling and plumbing and visit a number of building sites across the district to see the inner workings of construction in action. They also had the chance to work on their interview technique with members of Wates’ supply chain. The training programme drew to a close with the candidates putting their newly learnt skills to the test by building some community benches and planters to be placed in schools and community spaces. Local social enterprise, Green Future Building, provided recycled materials and hands-on support by way of guiding them through the project. Wates delivered the programme in partnership with its national delivery partners, Ixion Holdings and Skill
■ BREAK-TIME: The Building Futures students (above) take a break.Below (from left) Michael Bloomfield, Nathan Johnson and Joe Forster with their work
Centre, alongside Kirklees Council’s “build” initiative, which helped to source candidates who were already work-ready and equipped with the skills and motivation to maximise the potential of the scheme. All students will be rewarded for their efforts with a QCF Level 1 Award in Building Crafts accreditation and will undertake a CSCS test, as a means of securing access to future training and experience on building sites. Joanne Jamieson, regional managing director at Wates Living Space,
said: “It was always our intention to utilise our role in Kirklees Council’s
Excellent Homes for Life housing project to create training opportunities for local people and help them to improve their employability. “I am so pleased we have been able to deliver our Building Futures scheme and I’d like to thank ‘build’ for working with us to ensure we are providing tangible opportunities to enthusiastic trainees. All of the candidates have been brilliant and I wish them the very best in their future careers.” Dave Morris, of Crosland Moor, who completed the Building Futures course, said: “It was great to be given the chance to learn so many new skills. I know it will make a big difference to my job prospects. “I really enjoyed the course and it’s given me the motivation to keep going and look out for employment opportunities within the building industry.” Established by Wates in 2005, the Building Futures programme, accredited by the Assessment and Qualifications Alliance, was developed to help the long term unemployed and ex-offenders return to the workforce and learn about different trades within the construction industry. Wates’ work on the Excellent Homes for Life project for Kirklees Council will see the construction of 466 new Council homes for rent across the district.
Warning as tax penalties come flooding in SMALL businesses in Kirklees have been urged to make sure the taxman isn’t penalising them unfairly. The call comes as HM Revenue & Customs sends out half a million tax penalties of at least £1,200 each for failing to submit self-assessment tax returns. Nick Brook, who runs Tax Assist Accountants in Lockwood, said: “We always advise local business owners and self-employed to put the end of October firmly in their diary for filing their self-assessment tax returns on paper or the end of the following January if filing online. “This year the warning was even
starker, with HMRC for the first time adding daily fines to the initial £100 fixed penalty if the forms were still not submitted. “That means some 500,000 people across the UK are receiving penalties of at least £1,200 this month. “But we’re urging any Huddersfield business men and women who receive notices of tax penalties to make absolutely sure they’re not being unfairly targeted. “They may have ceased trading or left self-employment to become an employee with straightforward PAYE tax payments, for example and HMRC do not have the
changes on record. They will remove you from the self-assessment system and cancel the penalty if that’s the case.” Said Mr Brook: “In some circumstances, such as serious family illness or bereavement, they may also waive penalties, but this is extremely rare. “HMRC is clamping down firmly on late registrations and late payments and says the new rules have almost halved the number of outstanding returns. “We want to make sure that the remaining non-filers being targeted do not include any Huddersfield business people who shouldn’t be in self assessment in the ■ ALERT: Nick Brook, of TaxAssist Accountants first place.”
INSIDE Academy sponsor AN office supply firm has signed up as sponsor of Huddersfield Town’s academy. Complete Office Solutions will have its logo on the front of every age group’s shirt in the academy during the 2012-13 season. Town is in the process of creating classrooms at its Canalside sport complex, which will allow academy players to complete their off-field studies on site.
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Working world A KITCHEN manufacturer has launched a new initiative to support young people entering the job market. Against a background of rising youth unemployment, Dewsbury-based Rixonway – which provides kitchens for the social housing sector – is offering young tenants a chance to get an insight and experience in all areas of its business.
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KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS
national
JJB shares slump over ‘pre-pack’ talk
SHARES in struggling retailer JJB slumped amid fears that investors will lose out following the firm’s downward spiral. JJB is expected to be snapped up by rival Sports Direct International in a “pre-pack” administration deal that would see at least half of JJB’s stores closed – putting thousands of jobs put at risk. Sports World parent Sports Direct – founded by billionaire Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley – is believed to be close to finalising the deal, which would see him buy the most profitable stores from JJB. It is suggested that more than half of JJB’s 180 stores could close. Both JJB and Sports Direct have stores at Great Northern Retail Park in Huddersfield while Sports Direct also has a store at the town’s Kingsgate centre. But it is believed the Office of Fair
Trading would launch an investigation into any attempt by Sports Direct to buy JJB. The latest speculation prompted JJB’s shares to close down by 0.1p at 0.3p last night. Wigan-based JJB, which employs 4,000 staff, put itself up for sale at the end of last month after failing to secure the funds needed to overhaul its stores. It confirmed last week it was holding talks after receiving offers from “a number” of potential suitors as it seeks
Earnings surge for Wonga PAYDAY lender Wonga has seen profits surge after approving nearly 2.5m short-term loans in its last financial year. The company has faced accusations that it targets the financially vulnerable with an annual percentage rate as high as 4,000% – but argues it is helping meet demand for shor t-ter m loans from people shunned by high street banks. The number of loans provided jumped by 296% in 2011, helping revenues rise 225% to £184.7m and net income lift 269% to £45.8m. Wonga credits its performance on technology enabling it to make real-time lending decisions and
says it still rejects the majority of first-time loan applicants. Its average loan is about £160, with interest of about 1% a day. The latest results come amid scrutiny of the industry by the Office of Fair Trading following claims that some firms target people unsuitable for credit and roll over loans so that the charges escalate and they become unaffordable. Co-founder and chief executive Errol Damelin said Wonga’s success was based on record level of customer satisfaction and a 10-fold increase in the volume of loans taken out by mobile phone.
to secure the future of the firm. The group has already warned shareholders, who include the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, they are likely to see their stakes wiped out under any rescue deal. It is now understood JJB will not be able to stave off administration, but is working towards a “pre-pack” arrangement, that will allow it to be placed into administration and immediately sold. This would allow Sports Direct to jettison loss-making stores, but avoid the damaging impact of a prolonged
administration, which can cause irreparable damage to brands. Sports Direct was not immediately available for comment. Other companies interested in buying JJB are thought to include private investment firm OpCapita and French sporting goods retailer Decathlon. Private equity firm Better Capital, founded by venture capitalist Jon Moulton, was said to be a front-runner, but reports suggests the group failed to submit a bid by the deadline. JJB founder Dave Whelan also reportedly said he would not make an offer for the retailer, but would instead look to pick up individual stores if JJB was bought or fell into administration. JJB secured its most recent lifeline just four months ago when it landed £20m from US retailer Dick’s Sporting Goods and a further £1m from existing shareholders.
PwC posts 11% hike in profits ONE of the UK’s big four accountancy firms reported an 11% hike in profits after it “held its nerve” and continued to take on staff despite challenging markets. Professional services firm PwC recruited 2,300 people in the year to June, including more than 1,200 graduates and 100 school leavers. Contract wins with Aviva, Dubai World and Yule Catto boosted its auditing and assurance division and helped the firm report “a strong performance” in the year despite a “very challenging” market. Revenues in the UK rose by 7% to £2.6bn while profits were up by 10.8%
to £727m. Average profit per partner rose by 4.6% to £798,000, although the amount they received after payments to retired partners and equity adjustments fell by 4% to £679,000. Ian Powell, PwC UK chairman and senior partner, said: “We took a decision at the start of the downturn to continue to hold our nerve and invest in our business. We have recruited significant numbers of new people, and invested heavily in our infrastructure to make sure we deliver a world class service to our clients.” It follows strong results from rival Deloitte, which last month reported an 11% surge in revenues
Page 2 Game in wi-fi link VIDEO games retailer Game has linked up with telecoms giant BT to provide wi-fi access to its 341 UK stores, including one at Kingsgate in Huddersfield. The move will allow Game to showcase its full range of gaming content both on-line and in-store. Customers will also be able to download a free smartphone app in-store giving them instant access to product reviews, videos, news and special offers while browsing in the store. Game said the move would offer gamers the chance to research and experience products in even more depth before selecting their purchases. The service will be rolled-out in time for the peak Christmas period. Martyn Gibbs, chief executive for Game Retail, said: “The introduction of in-store wi-fi signals a new level of customer experience and a major step towards achieving our vision of delivering excellence for the UK gaming community. “Just as in the music and home movie market, online has revolutionised the way we discover and access new video games. As a company we are constantly evolving, listening to our customers and adapting our approach to deliver for them.” Andy Baker, chief executive for BT Wi-fi, said: “According to Ofcom, 39% of adults now have a smartphone and they’re a crucial part of people’s shopping habits, especially for gamers.”
SHARE PRICES NORTH AMERICAN American Express £36.42 -0.02 Gannett 1087.06 +6.15 Hess Corp £34.43 -0.04 Microsoft 1916.50 -2.46 Motors Liquidation 46.11 Wal-Mart Stores £45.46 -0.34 AEROSPACE & DEFENCE Avon Rbbr 3033/4 +1/2 BAE Systems 342 -5 Rolls-Royce 874 -101/2 AIM Brady Plc 97 3 Dawson Intl /8 Man Brnze 91/2 -1/4 AUTOMOBILES & PARTS GKN 2367/8 -1/4 BANKS Barclays 228 -1 HSBC 5831/4 -11/4 7 Lloyds Banking Gp 39 /8 -1/8 Ryl Scotland 2743/8 -45/8 Stan Chart 1514 +71/2 BEVERAGES Diageo 16831/2 +1/2 SABMiller £271/8 CHEMICALS Croda £241/8 -1/8 Elementis 98 2401/4 Johnsn Mat £251/4 -3/8 CONSTRUCTION & MATERIALS Balfour Beatty 3091/4 +15/8
2423/4 -53/4 ELECTRICITY Drax Gp 5001/2 -5 SSE 1382 -18 ELECTRONIC & ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT Laird 2437/8 +11/4 EQUITY INVESTMENT INSTRUMENTS Alliance Trust 3743/4 +5/8 FIXED LINE TELECOM SERVICES BT Grp 2281/4 -43/4 Cable & Wireless 381/4 +13/4 Comm Colt Group 1207/8 +11/8 KCOM 841/4 +1/4 Talktalk Telecom 187 -1/8 FOOD & DRUG RETAILERS Morrison W 2931/4 -5/8 Sainsbury 3415/8 +5/8 Tesco 3455/8 -1/4 FOOD PRODUCERS AB Food 1284 +9 Tate Lyle 648 +2 Unilever £225/8 +1/4 GAS, WATER & MULTIUTILITIES Centrica 3321/2 +1/4 National Grid 679 -51/2 Pennon Grp 734 +3 Severn 1690 +5 1 United Utils 688 /2 +51/2 GENERAL FINANCIAL 3i Group 2277/8 +1/4 ICAP 3501/4 -1/2 Costain
London StockExch 1097 -8 +11/8 Man Group 895/8 Provident Financial 1379 -29 Schroders 1583 +10 Schroders NV 1235 -8 GENERAL INDUSTRIALS Cooksn Grp 633 -2 REXAM 4291/8 -31/4 Smiths Grp 1041 -16 GENERAL RETAILERS Ashley L 25 -1/4 Carphone Whse 1661/2 +5 3 Dixons Retail 19 /8 -3/8 Home Retail 945/8 -1 Inchcape 3941/4 -5/8 5 Kingfisher 276 /8 -11/2 M&S 3715/8 -7/8 Mothercare 2113/4 -11/2 Next £34 +3/8 WH Smith 616 -8 HEALTH CARE EQUIPMENT & SERVICES Smith Nph 686 -4 HOUSEHOLD GOODS Aga Rangemaster 611/2 -11/2 Barrat Dev 1723/8 -3/4 1 Persimmon 780 /2 -91/2 3 Reckitt Benckiser £35 /4 +1/8 Taylor Wimpey 561/4 -7/8 INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING IMI 962 -51/2 INDUSTRIAL METALS Ferrexpo 2241/4 -3/4 INDUSTRIAL TRANSPORTATION
BBA Aviation 208 -1 LIFE INSURANCE Aviva 3591/4 -37/8 Lgl & Gen 138 +1/4 Old Mutual 175 -11/2 Prudential 841 -13 Resolution 2251/8 +11/4 Standard Life 281 -21/8 MEDIA BSkyB 725 +5 D Mail Tst 4881/2 -43/4 3 HIBU /4 ITV 871/2 +1/4 Johnston Press 73/4 +11/2 Pearson 1183 -6 Reed Elsevier 600 -51/2 3 STV Group 87 /8 Trinity Mirror 52 +53/4 Utd Business 692 -181/2 1 UTV 134 /2 +33/4 WPP 856 -8 MINING Anglo American £203/8 -1/2 Antofagasta 1308 -26 BHP Billiton £201/4 -1/4 Eurasian Natural 3625/8 -5/8 Res Fresnillo 1846 -24 Kazakhmys 7601/2 -121/2 Lonmin 649 +341/2 Rio Tinto £321/8 -5/8 VEDANTA 1093 +3 RESOURCES -7 Xstrata 10531/2 MOBILE TELECOM SERVICES
Local shares Carclo Marshalls National Grid Weir Gp
4473/4 893/4 679 1805
-7 -2 -51/2 -20
closed at at FTSE closed
5893.52 Down 22.03 Inmarsat 591 -3 Vodafone Group 1735/8 -21/4 NONLIFE INSURANCE Admiral Grp 1118 -5 RSA Insurance Gp 1201/2 -1 OIL & GAS PRODUCERS BG 1291 -10 BP 4511/2 +11/4 Cairn Energy 297 +17/8 Royal Dutch Shell A £221/2 -1/8 Royal Dutch Shell B £231/4 -1/8 Total £333/8 -3/8 Tullow Oil 1444 -12 OIL EQUIPMENT & SERVICES AMEC 1145 -11
Petrofac 1678 +11 Wood Gp(J) 8421/2 -171/2 PERSONAL GOODS Burberry Gp 1075 -19 PHARMACEUTICALS & BIOTECHNOLOGY Astrazeneca £287/8 GlaxoSmithK XD 15 Shire 1901 -1 REAL ESTATE Brit Land 5451/2 -2 -23/8 Captl Shop Cent 3477/8 Hamrsn 4671/8 +3/8 Land Secs 7961/2 +1 -7/8 SEGRO 2361/8 SOFTWARE ETC SERVICES Invensys 2491/8 -4 Sage Group 3151/8 -3 SUPPORT SERVICES Berendsen 546 -4 Bunzl 1088 -17 Capita 753 +161/2 De La Rue 993 -1/2 Electrocomp 2363/4 -43/4 Experian 1027 -4 G4S 2667/8 +57/8 1 Hays 83 /2 +11/2 Homeserve 2413/8 -27/8 Menzies J 640 Rentokil 83 -5/8 Smiths News 1171/2 +11/4 Wolseley £277/8 -1/4 IT HARDWARE ARM Hldgs 5841/2 +21/2
Psion Spirent Comms
861/4 1683/4
-11/2 -11/4
TOBACCO Br Am Tob Imperial Tobacco
£311/2 £231/8
-1/8 +1/8
LEISURE & HOTELS Bwin.Party Digital Carnival Compass Grp easyJet Enterprise Inns FirstGroup Go-Ahead Gp Greene King Intercontl Htls Intl Cons Airlines Gp Ladbrokes Mitchells & Butlers Natl Express Rank Org Stagecoach Group TUI Travel Whitbread
1103/8 £225/8 7101/2 569 633/4 2535/8 1365 5921/2 1644 156
+37/8 -1/8 +41/2 -3 -11/4 -67/8 -8 +2 +2 -41/8
1841/8 2863/4 2293/4 1393/4 2901/2 2321/8 £23
+55/8 +13/4 -3/4 -11/4 -3/8 -1/8
FTSE 100
INDEX 5893.52
-22.03
FTSE 250
INDEX 12080.88
-35.24
TOURIST RATES Tourists going abroad can expect the following rates for sterling: Australia...................... 1.46 dollars Bangladesh................. 125.10 taka Brazil.............................. 2.92 reals Canada....................... 1.50 dollars China ............................. 9.15 yuan Czech Republic ...... 27.70 korunas Denmark....................... 8.76 krone Euro............................... 1.18 euro Hong Kong................ 11.93 dollars Hungary................... 312.89 forints India.......................... 77.29 rupees Japan........................... 120.81 yen Mexico ....................... 18.40 pesos New Zealand .............. 1.82 dollars Norway ......................... 8.81 krone Pakistan.................. 144.34 rupees Philippines ................. 57.73 pesos South Africa................. 12.52 rand South Korea.............. 1577.00 won Sri Lanka ................ 201.80 rupees Sweden....................... 10.18 krona Switzerland.................. 1.43 francs Taiwan ...................... 41.48 dollars Turkey....................... 2.74 new lira USA ............................ 1.55 dollars
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS THE cars are definitely the stars as far as Ian Kellett is concerned. The owner of IK Classics and Racing is in his element servicing and repairing historic cars of every type – and racing his own vehicles at iconic circuits such as Brands Hatch and Silverstone. Now he’s putting his business into a higher gear with ambitious plans to develop his newly-acquired premises in the Holme Valley to provide a visitor attraction alongside his existing garage and car storage facilities. Work is under way to create a café, shops and a vehicle display area at Dobroyd Mills in Hepworth. The new facilities are due to open in October and Ian is racing against time to get the 10,00sq ft venue ready. The opportunity to expand his business came when IK Classics and Racing agreed to his landlord’s suggestion of moving from smaller premises in the bottom mill at Dobroyd to larger buildings just 300 yards away. Ian says: ““We swapped from 12,000sq ft of space to 48,000sq ft. We have been Castrol oil!” the premises for meetings. here about two months. Next month will also see On leaving school at the “It has presented us with the venue host the launch age of 16, Ian started a an opportunity which we of a new book about the five-year motor vehicle would not have had if we history of Huddersfield apprenticeship with Dews in hadn’t moved. Brighouse. “There have always been coach builder Rippon Brothers. “Nowadays, an four strings to our bow – The venture is being apprenticeship lasts two servicing race cars, modern funded by the other areas years,” says Ian. “I didn’t cars and classic cars and of the business. Ian admits finish until I was 21, but by vehicle storage. its hard work – and that that time I had a pretty good “They are all seasonal to he’s more happy with his grounding and I couldn’t an extent and in a head under the bonnet of a wait to find out what else I recession, classic and Standard Vanguard Bruiser could do.” historic cars are an than overseeing the work of Ian joined BMW as a expensive hobby. The first electricians, plumbers and technician and rose to things to go are the toys!” carpenters. become a service manager The aim with the new Ian, who hails from before leaving to run the development is to generate service department for a additional income streams – Norwood Green in Halifax, enjoyed woodwork and Porsche, Ferrari and Aston with the café, shops let to metalwork at school and Martin dealership in other businesses selling Bradford. vintage clothing, automotive learned many practical skills from his father. He returned to the collectibles, books and “He was an engine tuner shopfloor by taking a job furniture and a mock-up of a and a cabinetmaker,” says with Grundy Mack, a classic racing circuit pit wall to accommodate an Ian. “He was also skilled at car dealership in ever-changing display of pen and ink drawings. He Huddersfield. historic motors. was one of those annoying When the owner decided Ian’s wife Nicola has a people who could turn their to move operations to background in catering after hand to anything. Malton after about four running Nicola’s Gateaux “He was also a speedway years, Ian set up his current for several years and will mechanic and at the age of business. realise her own dream by five I could hand him all the Says Ian: “James running the café. tools he needed to tune a Hinchliffe, of the textile firm Villagers have been JAP speedway bike in the Z Hinchliffe and Sons, said supportive of the plan and correct order. The earliest he could find me some Ian hopes the new venue smell I can remember was premises at Dobroyd Mills. will provide a much-needed community facility for local organisations. “The reaction we have had from local people has been brilliant,” he says. “We haven’t had one negative response. “At the bottom mill, the neighbours didn’t even know we were there. “We have been here two months and the villagers have taken us under their wing.” The move has provided a new lease of life for the mill. Ian and his team have cleaned up graffiti and tidied the grounds. I It is hoped that a number of motoring enthusiast clubs ■ ENGINE ROOM: Ian Kellett of IK Classics and Racing – including a women-only motorcycle group – will use still enjoys getting his hands dirty in the repair shop
profile
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Ian Kellett
It’s life in the fast lane! “From then, I haven’t looked back. I have had fantastic support from so many people and I owe them a great deal.” Ian fell in love with historic cars from an early age. “My first car was a 1947 Triumph Roadster, which I bought for £99 from a boatyard in Mirfield when I was 17,” he recalls. “I sold it later – and I have been looking for it ever since!” Historic vehicles have an enduring appeal that modern motors cannot hope to match, as far as Ian is concerned. He also has little time for the “vicious marketplace” in which franchised dealerships have to operate. “I don’t like the way modern cars have gone – where you have to plug the vehicle into a laptop to find out what’s wrong with it,” he says. “The older cars were designed and built by people who had an idea in their minds and drew that idea onto paper. Now they just feed dimensions into a computer. “The Morris Minor lasted as a model from 1949 to 1972. “Now you are lucky if a model lasts for two years before being re-designed. It is all about trying to make the customer buy a new car by making him think his last one is out of date. “The ‘best’ car we have on site is a 1924 Bradford Jowett, which has never had to be scrapped. “We have rescued numerous cars that were supposedly on their last legs.” Says Ian: “We like to give a good service. The problem is that the majority of my customers become good friends – and they get
Historic cars kept in peak condition can also accrue in value. VW camper vans – favourites of the Flower Power generation – can now command prices of £20,000 to £30,000 while a nippy MG sports car can be worth £22,000. Ian drives an unremarkable Nissan pickup for work, but takes real pride in his 1951 Standard Vanguard, which he has driven in historic car races at venues such as Silverstone, Brands Hatch and Snetterton and at the Goodwood Revival. And he wouldn’t swap his work for any other job. “This place is like a toy box,” he says. “Every day is different. I meet interesting people – and eccentric people. “You have to be a certain type of person to own some of these cars! “I enjoy the job. It is hard work and I will never be a millionaire, but I get a great deal of satisfaction from it.”
Role: Owner Age: 56 Family: Married to Nicola with children Hayley 29, Ben, 19 and James, 18 Holidays: Anywhere I can switch off and the mobile phone can’t get reception! Car: Nissan pick-up First job: Apprentice mechanic Best thing about job: Every day is different and I meet some interesting – and eccentric – people Worst thing about job: Frustration that things aren’t happening faster with our latest project Business tip: Look after people on the way up because you may need them on the way down! Don’t be greedy
IK Classics and Racing Work: Garage services, car storage and recovery Site: Dobroyd Mills, Hepworth Phone: 01484 688678 Email: ikclassics @gmail.com Web:www.ikclassics andracing.co,uk
HENRYK ZIENTEK
Who will be the next Business of the Month? If you are proud of what your business has achieved; why not tell us about your success story and you could be a winner of our prestigious award. For further details please contact: Ian Greenwood, Eaton Smith Solicitors, 14 High Street, Huddersfield HD1 2HA T: 01484 821389 E: iangreenwood@eatonsmith.co.uk Business Of The Month Awards - Rewarding Success Since 1995
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KIRKLEES BUSIN
Safety message getting garbled! HE Health and Safety ExecT utive set up an independent Myth Busters Challenge
Panel in April, 2012. The HSE had been blamed for silly health and safety rules that were not true and the aim of the panel was to change the direction of the blame away from the HSE. The HSE has published what it calls “blatant examples” of firms using health and safety as an excuse to refuse service. Incidents include cafes refusing to heat up baby food, a golf course banning golf buggies and an airline refusing a passenger a blanket. Through its Myth Busters Challenge Panel, the HSE seeks to draw attention to inaccurate claims that health and safety forbids certain activities when no such rules exist. More health and safety myths have been highlighted and a new top 10 has been published: ● A boot supplier claimed that it was banned from accepting dirty boots for return. There is nothing in the Health and Safety at Work Act to prevent boots being returned to a supplier, dirty or not, the boot supplier blatantly used health and safety as an excuse ● Cafes and restaurants refusing to heat up baby food because the h o t fo o d m i g h t bu r n t h e 14-month-old girl’s mouth. The panel said that no such health and safety restrictions exist and ruled that the incidents were “a matter of company policy regarding cus-
RISKY BUSINESS Debra Taylor-Mclean
tomer service and cafes should not be using health and safety as an excuse to hide behind” ● A golf club told players that golf buggies were not health and safety authorised. The HSE has no role in “authorising” golf clubs or the use of buggies ● A hospital refused the use of a microwave on a ward. This is likely to be an issue of setting a precedent which might lead to more widespread use by many patients' families. Hospital staff should state the real reason not simply hide behind “health and safety” ● A gym-goer was told he could not lift weights without wearing trainers. It would be better if the gym management simply explained the real reasons for its shoe policy, whether it is for hygiene or other reasons ● A woman was banned by her boss from wearing sandals in the office in summer. Despite recent reports to the contrary, health and safety law doesn’t ban them. However, slips, trips and falls do account for about 30% of all workplace accidents and what you wear on your feet can make a difference. So, if you work somewhere where the floor can’t be kept dry or clean then wearing shoes that fit well and
have a good grip would be a better choice than flip-flops ● A passenger was refused a blanket on a flight, but was told she could buy one. The panel ruled: “This is a blatant case of health and safety being used gratuitously to cover up poor customer service or a commercial decision. It is clear that there’s no health and safety concern given that blankets are available – at a price” ● When trying to book a pitch at a campsite, the enquirer was advised by the booking agent that he could not have two people sleeping in a camper van and two in a tent due to health and safety regulations and they would have to book a second pitch – therefore doubling the price ● A primary school’s tree house had to be located away from the premises because of a risk to children. This seems to be a case of risk averse behaviour possibly on grounds of potential civil liability ● A council banned a nursery teacher from taking children to an allotment. There is some indication that the measures taken to safeguard the children at the site presents an inconvenience to others.
Debra Taylor-Mclean is risk management consultant at Wilby Ltd
Warning over pensions NEW legal requirements have presented employers with strict obligations over pensions. The new regulations mean employers in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, will automatically have to enrol eligible jobholders into an enrolment pension scheme. Julie Sykes, of Shepley-based human resources consultancy JCS HR , said: “This new legislation means that an employer must automatically enrol their eligible employees into a pension scheme and pay minimum employer contributions or provide a minimum level of benefits. “They will also have to provide information to workers explaining their new rights and re-enrol those who decide to opt-out approximately every three years.” The new legislation is effective
■ JULIE SYKES: New legislation from October 1 for employers with more than 250 employees and will be phased in over the next five years for smaller employers. As part of the legislation,
safeguards have also been put in place to protect both existing staff members and job applicants. Said Julie: “These safeguards mean that an employee cannot ask a potential employee whether, if offered the position, they would opt-in or out of a scheme; or provide inducement to an employee to opt-out of a scheme. “In addition, an employer cannot dismiss or subject an employee to detrimental treatment should they take action to enforce their automatic enrolment rights. “It is important that employers do not take this new legislation lightly as breaches of any of the above could result in the issuing of a compliance notice or fine. A worker who believes they have been a victim of detrimental treatment or unfair dismissal can enforce their rights in an employment tribunal.”
Helping hand a worthy feat
PODIATRY students at Huddersfield University are getting help to step out in business. Disposable Medical Instruments one of the UK’s leading supplier of complete sterile procedure packs and individual packed disposable medical instruments has supplied graduates at Huddersfield with free instrument packs on graduation – to get their own businesses up and running. The company, which has long-standing relationships with university podiatry departments across the UK and Ireland, is supplying podiatry graduates with 25 sets of podiatry instruments each. The aim of the agreement is to get the 2012 graduates started in their own business with as few overheads as possible. The graduation packs, containing a nail nipper, blacks file, emery board and disposable scalpel, will earn each student about £500 in total, which they can then invest back into their business. Patrick Chaney, managing director of DMI, said: “We value our longstanding relationships with the universities and wish to continue to nurture the new relationships that we form with each intake of students, during their studies and beyond. “The partnership with the universities demonstrates how beneficial using disposable podiatry instruments are compared to re-usable and that the next generation of podiatrist will go on from university with the very latest industry thinking and know-how.” The partnership with the universities developed from an initial relationship Huddersfield University more than four years ago, which saw DMI create customised disposable instruments following innovative design suggestions from its staf and students. Chris Davies, head of podiatry and clinical sciences at the university, said: “The overall package provided by DMI, including the high standards of provision, the service offered and the quality assured instrument packs was a reassuring aspect of the contract. “DMI has been responsive to any ideas for developments and any concerns with packs have been managed quickly. We look forward to continued business with the company.” DMI, which supplies NHS hospitals, podiatrists, GP clinics and sexual health clinics with single-use instruments, has recently experienced a surge of interest in its products – due to the cost saving benefits attached to single-use instruments, the quality of the instruments and the fact that they do not require repeat sterilisation costs, unlike re-usable instruments.
NESS NEWS
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End in sight for eurozone crisis?
HE evolution of the eurozone soverT eign debt crisis has, for some time now, been the key focus for financial
markets. The once unquestionable future of the currency Bloc has become debatable, with investors often panicked by fears of a systemic meltdown, similar to that observed following the collapse of Lehman Brothers in 2008. Five countries within the eurozone (Greece, Ireland, Portugal, Spain and Cyprus) have required some form of aid and several governments have also appeared on the casualty list. Nevertheless, developments in recent months suggest that the eurozone may have finally “turned a corner”. Notably, bond markets are giving signals that faith is being restored that a commitment still exists to preserve the single currency Bloc in its current form (perhaps with the exception of Greece), with progress made towards establishing a closer banking, fiscal and political union. The first major breakthrough was the agreement to provide a 100bn euros bail-out to Spanish banks – not only was this a substantial sum (it is estimated that only circa 60bn euros is actually required), but for the first time, such funds were made available to the banking sector directly, rather than via the national government (which would have been an additional burden on Spanish public finances) and without “preferred creditor” status (it was agreed that Spain would be an exception in this case). It was also agreed that a single supervisory body would be established (via the European Central Bank
CITY TALK Simon Kaye
(ECB)) to monitor eurozone banks by the end of the year. Meanwhile, more recently, the actions of the ECB have further helped to remove “tail risks” in Europe, with President Mario Draghi pledging that, within their mandate, the ECB was ready to do “whatever it takes to preserve the euro”. Interest rates have been cut to a record low (0.75%) and perhaps more notably, the ECB has provided a strong indication that it could re-enter the sovereign bond markets in order to keep yields at more sustainable levels – unlike the previous bond buying programme (the Securities Markets Programme), it is anticipated that the ECB will no longer grant itself ‘senior status’ and that purchases will involve an increase in the overall money base (pure Quantitative Easing!). The potential for such “game changing” policy action has been endorsed by senior political figures and also welcomed favourably by financial markets. Nevertheless, despite recent policy action, few would declare that Europe is now “out of the woods”. A weak macro-economic environment is likely to persist for sometime as austerity programmes remain in place, although the recent weakening of the euro currency should
Simon Kaye is divisional director at Investec Wealth & Investment
Smashing occasion A PALLET delivery business in Huddersfield is celebrating a smashing tie-up. Netherton-based The Pink Link Ltd is providing a pallet delivery service across the UK and Europe for Halifax firm Festival Glass, one of the country’s leading decorators of glassware. Festival Glass specialises in supplying printed glassware to many regional brewers, organisations such as the Campaign For Real Ale and any event that requires a printed glass. It has built long-term links with the main glassware factories in Europe. Graham Cheesbrough, of Festival Glass, said: “The Pink Link Ltd offers reliable and trustworthy customer service which gives us confidence in the work they deliver for us. We chose The Pink Link Ltd because it offers a great combination of price and service. “We place great importance on building strong relationships in order to offer such a comprehensive range of products. “We see The Pink Link as an integral part of the business and a valued partner. They are reliable and do the job with very few problems, offering us a service we can be confident in. Seventy percent of all orders
help to provide some offsetting support. However, it will still be politics that determines the future path of financial markets. In this regard, September is set to be crucial month, with hopes of more detail from the ECB on their new policy programme, the German Constitutional Court set to rule on the European bail-out fund (the European Stability Mechanism), Dutch polls taking place and the Troika due to finalise their report on Greece and decide whether or not to provide an additional 30bn euros in bail-out funds. Indeed, with regards to the latter, a Greek exit from the Euro remains a serious possibility – reassuringly should such an event occur, if the ECB is to be taken at its word, policymakers now have the tools available to establish a sufficient firewall to protect Spain, along with Italy, both of which are simply “too big to fail”.
Honours beckon for law associate AN associate with Huddersfield law firm Ramsdens has been shortlisted for top honours. Laura Smith (pictured), who works in the firm’s commercial team, is among the finalists in the Rising Star category of the Yorkshire Lawyer Awards 2012. The competition, which is supported by the Yorkshire Union of Law Societies, is recognised as the premier event in the Yorkshire Legal Calendar. The evening brings together Yorkshire’s legal community to recognise and celebrate some of the top achievements of the year from our home-grown talent. Categories of awards cover everyone from the biggest corporate firms to in-house lawyers, from senior partners to rising stars. The awards are judged by a prestigious panel from the Yorkshire legal community and the awards take place on October 3. Said Laura: “I am delighted to have been shortlisted for such a prestigious award. It is very exciting that Ramsdens are featuring in this ceremony for a second year running and I hope we are as successful as last year!”
It’s time you got more from your accountant Thinking… outside the books
added value services include… Tailored programme to maximise profitability Tailored tax efficient solutions
Regular updates & support to help your business FREE use of our facilities for your meeting ■ RIGHT ROAD: Vicki Davenport, of Netherton-based The Pink Link Ltd we supply are dated for events and there is no room for late deliveries.” Vicki Davenport, sales and commercial director at The Pink Link Ltd, said: “We have developed a close working relationship with Festival Glass over the last year. “We look forward to continually working with them and aim to continue offering the highest levels of service, allowing Festival Glass to continue to grow their business.”
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INDEPENDENT EDUCATION
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Making the correct educational choices
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HOOSING the right school for your son or daughter is one of the most important decisions you can make.
Scholarships & Bursaries available Ask for details
Rishworth School & Heathfield
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Heathfield Open Afternoon: Monday 15th October, 1:15 - 6:00pm
Rishworth School 11-18 Years Rishworth Open Morning: Saturday 13th October, 9:30am-12:30pm Rishworth Open Evening: Monday 15th October, 6:00- 8:30pm Year 7 Entrance Assessment: Saturday 10th November, 9am Sixth Form Open Evening: Wednesday 14th November, 6:30pm
Huddersfield and beyond is rich in top class schools so look at what’s available and attend some open days before making a final decision. ● Founded in 1724 Rishworth School is fully co-educational and aims to provide for your child a caring environment in which they can achieve a high standard relative to their natural talent. The school comprises of a nursery for children from age three, a junior school, Heathfield, which has its own separate site, and the senior school. The school admits pupils of a broad range of academic abilities and prides itself on being able to give each child close personal attention, both in, and outside, the classroom. Pastoral care is highly developed with a tutorial system which ensures that your child receives regular encouragement and help on matters ranging from academic work to personal development. Communications are very good from Huddersfield via the M62 to Rishworth- in term-time it takes less than 25 minutes. A school bus also serves the Huddersfield area. Please visit us at our Open Events (as advertised) or alternatively, contact our Admissions Officer. ● The motto at Rastrick is simple: “Only The Best For The Best”. The philosophy of this Independent School – founded in 1994 – is to provide a first class education combined with academic excellence. Situated in a small village in the heart of Yorkshire, this educational campus is flourishing in a historic and
beautiful location. The academic achievement at Rastrick has been acknowledged as ‘Excellent’ by ISI and Ofsted. The School has achieved 100% Pass rate at 11+ and 100% A* - C at GCSE. The SATS results are outstanding at all key stages. When it comes to examination results, Rastrick succeeds far above the national and local averages. The highly qualified team create a vibrant, exciting environment for learning. The pupils have a reputation for manners and discipline which has produced confident, happy, well adjusted young people. Life at this independent school is extremely successful academically and daily school life is rich and rewarding. Walking into the Main School, visitors experience something quite unique. The architecture and design of Rastrick has maintained the atmosphere of the historic buildings and incorporates light, air and space to create a superb learning environment. Children and students greet invited guests, each other, their teachers and parents with a natural warmth and charm. The structure of a day here is ordered and classes for all ages take place in rooms designed to stimulate learning as well as to showcase the work being undertaken. Every child learns to take care of themselves and their peers. The pastoral care at Rastrick is outstanding. In partnership with families, pupils achieve their potential academically but also flourish in sports and The Arts. The school and college are open all year round to accommodate working parents. ● Bradford Grammar School has both a junior and a senior school. An open day is being held on Saturday
Bradford Grammar School for girls and boys aged 6 - 18
future
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Saturday 6 October 2012
Open Day
10am - 4pm Come and see for yourself
Registered Charity No: 529161
For further information contact the Registrar, Karen Hewitt on ‘Outstanding2011/12’
SECURING YOUR CHILD’S
■ 2012 has been another successful year for Grammar School entries. ■ Rastrick Independent School has achieved 100% pass rate for the areas 3 maintained Grammar Schools.
(address by Head of Sixth Form 6:45pm)
Rishworth, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom HX6 4QA. Tel: +44 (0)1422 822 217 Fax: +44 (0)1422 820 911 E-mail: admissions@rishworth-school.co.uk Website: www.rishworth-school.co.uk
■ WINNERS: Rastrick Independent School winners who won gold silver and bronze in the Primary Maths Challenge October 6 from 10am to 4pm so come along and take a look for yourself. Bradford Grammar Junior School is a selective, co-educational junior school for girls and boys from the age of six to 11 years. The Junior School is housed in its own building called Clock House on the main BGS site. It has its own classrooms, DT, ICT and art rooms, assembly hall, gardens, playground. teaching staff and headmaster. Pupils are taught mainly in the Junior School but they do have the added benefit of being able to use the state of the art facilities available in the Senior School. As the pupils progress through the year groups they are taught more and more of their lessons, such as languages, art, English, ICT, maths and DT by specialist subject teachers. The introduction of the Senior School facilities and the occasional use of some of the Senior School teachers, eases their transition at 11 plus. The school seeks to retain the best of the traditional grammar school ethos with a modern, forward-thinking approach. It is our aim to be the country’s leading independent co-educational day school.
01274 553702
www.bradfordgrammar.com
Rastrick Independent School & College
For Enquiries please call
01484 400344 Ogden Lane, Rastrick, Brighouse HD6 3HF
info@rastrick-independent.co.uk www.rastrickschool.co.uk
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS Search for stars THE search is on to find next year’s stars of the region’s property and construction sectors – with the launch of the 2013 RICS Pro-Yorkshire Awards. The region’s property “Oscars” celebrate the most inspirational regional initiatives and developments in land, property, construction and the environment. Colin Harrop, chairman of the RICS regional judging panel, said: “We received a high volume of exceptional entries for last year’s awards and we had a great turnout at the launch event, so hopefully we will see a large number of quality entries come through once again for the 2013 awards.” The deadline for entries is January 18, 2013. Contact Claire Simmons on 0191 2211039 or csimmonsrics.org The awards will be presented at a ceremony on April 28 at the Centenary Pavilion in Leeds.
property
Young tenants get insight into how Rixonway works A KITCHEN manufacturer has launched a new initiative to support young people entering the job market. Against a background of rising y o u t h u n e m p l o y m e n t , D e w sbury-based Rixonway – which provides kitchens for the social housing sector – is offering young tenants a chance to get an insight and experience in all areas of its business. According to recent statistics, just under one million people aged 16 to 24 remain unemployed – citing reasons for disengagement such as poverty and lack of aspiration or opportunity. The first tenant to take part in Rixonway’s project is 17-year-old Aspire resident Jordan Evans, of Newcastle under-Lyme, who spent a day shadowing one of Rixonway’s designers to understand more about the role and learn the key skills such as producing CAD designs. After finishing school last year and starting training with PM Group, in March, 2012, Jordan has taken part in various apprenticeships in the hope of securing permanent employment. He has just finished training in brick laying and has an interest in construction and kitchen fitting.
■ DESIGN BRIEF: Jordan Evans with Dan Francis, of Rixonway
Rixonway designer Dan Francis, who mentored Jordan for the day, started his design career working with bathrooms, kitchens for private landlords and builders before entering the social housing market. Said Mr Francis: “I ran the day in the
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Page 7
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same way I would if I were training up a new recruit going through the process and showing Jordan how a CAD design is produced before letting him complete CAD designs himself. “Jordan was great, he took my instruction very well and by the third
house he was completing designs with little instruction from me.” Jordan said: “I’ve learnt a lot from the day. After Dan showed me how to do the first kitchen, I went on to complete designs for the rest of properties in the day. “I would be very interested in a role in design and hope that the day might be a stepping stone to a permanent position.” Explaining his reason for the initiative, Rixonway chief executive Paul Rose said: “It is important for all Britain’s businesses to contribute to supporting the country’s unemployed in whatever way they can. “Offering work experience and training in this way to young people engages them, gives them an insight into the world of work and allows them to experience a job they may not have considered before. “If this initiative is successful, we will consider rolling it out to other areas of the business. “Now more than ever, we need to ensure our young people have the right skills, experience and opportunities to progress in education or the workplace”
KIRKLEES BUSINESS NEWS Richard Paxman
Paxman Coolers PAXMAN Coolers Ltd has appointed Richard Paxman as managing director. Mr Paxman (pictured) will take on day-to-day management of the Fenay Bridge-based business supported by the board and continue his objective to establish Paxman as the leading global manufacturer and supplier of scalp cooling equipment for cancer patients. Mr Paxman graduated in management science in 2004 from the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology. He joined the family’s business, Brewfitt Ltd in the area of business development before progressing two years later to general manager. In 2008, he was appointed finance and operations manager of Paxman Coolers Ltd while continuing his role at Brewfitt Ltd. In 2010, he was appointed operations director of Paxman Coolers Ltd, helping it expand overseas to more than 32 countries. Chief executive Glenn Paxman said: “As we continue to grow the company globally, it is particularly important from my personal point of view and with great appreciation that Richard has been able to take over much of my day to day work and moreover responsibilities in running Paxman. It makes me very proud and happy to know that the business will continue to grow and expand and be successful in very capable hands.”
John Leach & Alan Marks
fds cfs DENBY Dale-based Jo Haigh has announced two key appointments at corporate finance house fds cfs. The Wakefield-based business, which has offices in London and Birmingham, has appointed John Leach (top) as chairman and Alan Marks (also pictured) as a non-executive director. Mr Leach’s appointment means he will be working with Ms Haigh again after a gap of 30 years. Ms Haigh initially worked for Mr Leach at T&L Fine Food and Wine Ltd. Mr Leach bought his most recent venture, BeadsDirect.co.uk in Leicester, from Ms Haigh in 2009. Mr Leach has mentored Ms Haigh through many of her business achievements and was a strong supporter of her “going solo” in October last year. Mr Marks, of London-based company Harrison Spence, has also worked with Ms Haigh in the past at a London accounting firm. The two have been looking for an opportunity to work together again ever since. These appointments boost the numbers involved in fds cfs to 10.
Paul Watkin
Santander SANTANDER has appointed Paul Watkin as a relationship director for large corporate businesses based in Yorkshire and the North East. Mr Watkin will work with businesses in the region with turnover from £50m to £2bn.He will be responsible for managing existing customer relationships and sourcing new business to support the continued expansion of Santander Corporate Banking throughout the region. Mr Watkin joins Santander Corporate Banking from his previous post as a senior director at RBS Global Banking and Markets.
Movers and shakers
Page 8
It’s a top drawer deal for sponsor AN office supply firm has signed up as sponsor of Huddersfield Town’s academy. Complete Office Solutions will have its logo on the front of every age group’s shirt in the academy during the 2012-13 season. As part of the regulations of the Elite Player Performance Plan, Town is in the process of creating classrooms at its Canalside sport complex, which will allow academy players to complete their off-field studies on site. Ossett-based Complete Office Solutions will assist Town in kitting out the classrooms with supplies and furniture. The company will also become the Club’s official office suppliers. Town business development manager Mark Davies said: “Following the introduction of the EPPP, the football club has focused heavily on improving and developing the structure of the academy. “This new partnership will help us kit out the classrooms that are currently in development at Canalside. “The classrooms will allow the students to combine their studies and training into one, without them having to go off site.”
■ DESK WORK: Dion Surr (left) and John McAulay ( right) of Complete Office Solutions, with Town’s Andy Booth (second left and Mark Davies
Dion Surr, account manager for Complete Office Solutions, said: “As a proud Yorkshire-based business, it is great to be a
part of ‘the Yorkshire Club’. “We are delighted to be the academy sponsors.”
Enterprising beginnings A CHAMPIONSHIP line-up is speakers will get the new season under way today for Huddersfield Town Enterprise Academy. The academy starts its fourth season on a high with more than 1,100 members of the LinkedIn group and is staging its first event from noon to 2.30pm at the town’s Lawrence Batley Theatre. The free event will take the form of a panel discussion on the theme of socially responsible business. The four-strong panel comprises Huddersfield Town chief executive Nigel
Clibbens (right); Richard Gomersall (far right), co-founder of Insight with Passion; Paul Gowland, of Yorkshire Air Ambulance; and Ian Agnew, of Digital Outreach and Not Just a Trading Company. The session will be chaired by Tracy Sheldon, partner at YBG UK and director at Women’s Centre Kirklees & Calderdale. The next HTEA event is scheduled for Thursday, November 1, at the newly-refurbished Huddersfield Town Canalside complex on Leeds Road.
Creative forces set the pace ONE of the world’s leading creatives – who counts major fashion designers, cultural icons and innovative brands as clients – is heading to West Yorkshire. Steve Edge, who is internationally-recognised for being at the forefront of pioneering the use of digital and design to deliver growth for his clients, will attend the Yorkshire Institute of Directors’ Gathering Momentum event in Leeds next month. Steve, who is passionate about promoting British brands overseas, is supporting the event, which takes place on October 25 in Headingley. He is confirmed as keynote speaker at the UKTI-backed alongside Huddersfield-born James Sommerville, of Attik Design. Mr Sommerville co-founded Attik in 1986 with a £2,000
■ IDEAS MEN: Steve Edge (left) and Sjames Sommerville, who will be keynote speakers at the Gathering Momentum event grant from The Prince’s Trust. Over the next 20 years, the small branding and design firm grew to cover the UK, London, New York, Sydney and Los Angeles.
Mr Edge, who hails from London’s East End, heads Edge Design Ltd and is currently working in the capital harnessing new media for brands from the USA and
China. “The world wide web has made exporting a reality for every business,” he said. “The UK creative industry is at the top of its game. At the same time, the new world economies such as China and Russia are hungry for luxury brands which we manufacture and design so well in this country. “Look at Burberry in Castleford. It’s a golden opportunity for British brands to capitalise on that hunger and do business. Critical to the exporting success of business is a strong website that international clients prospective and real can use to reference you. Our own experience demonstrates that if you make your website interesting, innovative and informative it will help drive overseas business and we have seen that at Edge