Kirklees Business News September

243

A FORMER Huddersfield woman has been honoured by the PR industry.

Prof Anne Gregory, pro Vice-Chancellor of Leeds Metropolitan University, received the 2009 Stephen Tallents Medal from the Chartered Institute of Public Relations.

The award, which recognises outstanding achievements in PR, was presented by CIPR president Kevin Taylor.

Prof Gregory, who was a pupil at Royds Hall School, Paddock, and lived at Lindley, was CIPR president on 2004 and serves on the institute’s council.

During her year in office, she led the campaign to achieve chartered status for the institute

and continues to edit the institute’s PR in Practice series of books.

Prof Gregory said: “It is a great honour to receive this most prestigious medal.

“Chartered status was a milestone in the journey of the institute, not its end.

“I am pleased to see professionalism becoming increasingly important with education and training as a bedrock.”

Prof Gregory was the first professor of public relations in the UK and is based at the university’s Centre for Public Relations.

The Stephen Tallents Medal was founded in 1984 and named after the institute’s first president, who took office in 1948.

n HOWZAT! : Chem Resist chairman Seamus Quinn celebrating another export win for the firm - to Australia

Bowled over!

THE Aussies have been bowled over by a Ravensthorpe firm.

While England and Australian cricketers contest the Ashes, Chem Resist has continued its run of sales successes with a £67,000 contract to provide chemical storage equipment to Klen International, based at Wangara, near Perth in Western Australia.

Chem Resist has supplied a sulphuric acid dilution unit to the company – technology developed by Chem Resist over the past 12 years and already doing sterling service in Russia, Czech Republic, Poland, Algeria, Egypt as well as the UK. Klen specialises in making and

distributing cleaning and sanitation chemicals for the food and drink, dairy and hospitality industries across Australia.

The new unit will help the company bulk buy concentrated sulphuric acid more efficiently and then dilute it as required at their own plant.

Chem Resist chairman Seamus Quinn said Klen was impressed by t h e Rave n s t h o r p e c o m p a ny ’s world-leading standing in the design and manufacture of corrosion-resistant thermoplastic chemical storage tanks and process vessels.

Said Mr Quinn: “The unit has a proven track record of efficiency,

performance and safety – an obviously important consideration when dealing with concentrated sulphuric acid.

“When a company with the status of Klen chooses Chem Resist it sends all the right signals to worldwide markets about our expertise here in West Yorkshire.”

Customers for the firm’s chemical storage tanks, chemical mixing tanks, fume scrubbers and pumps have also included pharmaceutical company Glaxo Smithkline, steel maker Corus, film processing firms Kodak and Agfa and Thames Water.

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KIRKLEES BUSINESS

COMMENT

by

Henryk Zientek it moves, tax it. And when it stops IFmoving, tax it again.

That seems to be the argument employed

by Nottingham City Council, which plans to introduce the UK’s first workplace parking levy from 2012.

The Kirklees-based Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce has been vocal in its opposition to the new tax – arguing that now is hardly the time for threaten more burdens on business.

Supporters of the levy claim it will persuade more people to leave their cars at home when they travel to work and cut road congestion.

That fails to take account of how many people need the car during the course of their working day and the likelihood of workers simply parking on nearby streets – adding to congestion.

The other argument in favour – that the millions raised could be used to improve public transport – will bring a hollow laugh from the motoring community.

They would argue that motorists already raise billions of pounds in fuel tax and vehicle excise duty – but that little of that finds its way back into the transport system in the form of better roads, railways and bus services.

Nottingham’s scheme is not one to be welcomed.

Read Henryk Zientek's Business reports Monday to Saturday in ...

Inside Issues Firm aims to clean up – page 4 Fuel for thought – page 3 Cabbies hail training – page 7 Rebranding in the can – page 11 Textile products launch – page 16 Building firms target orders – page 17 Engineering plans for a move – page 20 Data centre scheme unveiled – page 22 Firm bags a flood of orders – page 23 PR agency adds support – back page

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FINANCIAL REPORT

Companies urged to take up grants

COMPANIES across Kirklees have been urged to make the most of improved access to funding from the Carbon Trust.

Small and medium-sized businesses have already slashed their annual energy bills by up to 75% by installing new energy-saving equipment paid for by Government-funded Carbon Trust loans.

More than £100m in interest-free and unsecured loans are available over the next two years.

In the latest move, the minimum loan amount has been lowered to £3,000, putting the loans within reach of smaller businesses.

The upper limit has been d o u bl e d f ro m £ 2 0 0 , 0 0 0 t o £400,000 to meet the needs of SMEs with high energy use, such as manufacturers.

In most cases, businesses taking a Carbon Trust loan to update their equipment find the savings they make on energy bills exceed the cost of the loan repayments – enabling them to benefit from brand new equipment, increased

efficiency and reduced running costs at no expense to themselves.

Carbon Trust chief executive Tom Daley said: “Small and medium businesses are the backbone of the UK economy and key to the move to the low carbon world.

“We are extending a helping hand to them by offering more than £100m in interest-free, unsecured loans at a time when bank funding is hard to come by.

“Our zero per cent loan offer is as close to free money as a business can get and is flexible enough to help almost any small or

medium business, from the corner fish and chip shop to a factory.”

David Frost, director-general of the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “In the current downturn, cash is king and one of the first places struggling businesses should look to redeem cash is in their business premises where it’s possible to eliminate energy wastage.

“The Carbon Trust loans scheme offers a practical solution for business survival through energy efficiency and we’d encourage businesses across the UK to take advantage of the funding available.”

The Carbon Trust said a loan of £3,000 and upwards could fund a new energy-efficient boiler, refrigeration, lighting or cooking equipment for businesses such as independent retailers, franchisees and caterers. At the other end of the scale, loans of up to £400,000 could enable mid-sized manufacturers to fit their factories with modern production equipment.

Seek advice

SHARON Keymer has been appointed to the new role of senior bank manager for NatWest covering Huddersfield, Halifax, Brighouse, Hebden Bridge, Elland and Todmorden.

Ms Keymer (right), who has 35 years experience with the bank, will work with four bank managers in local branches.

She will also work with her team of MoneySense Advisers who have been appointed in some branches to provide, free, impartial financial guidance to everyone, including customers of other banks and people without bank accounts.

Before being appointed senior bank manager at Halifax and Huddersfield, Ms Keymer worked as an area retail manager, area operations manager and business operations manager with the bank in the Yorkshire area.

Poor relationships SIX out of 10 small and medium-sized fir ms in Yorkshire never see their bank manager from one year to the next, a survey has revealed.

A poll of 500 senior managers from SMEs by Bank of Cyprus UK also showed that only 13% see their bank manager annually with 24% seeing their bank manager every few months. Some 63% claim never to see their bank manager.

However, with the onset of the recession, the frequency of visits by those who do see their bank manager on a regular basis has surprisingly dropped – from

2% having once or twice monthly visits, to less than 1%.

Tony Leahy, head of communications at Bank of Cyprus UK, said: “The fact remains that a large number of SMEs are not taking the time to meet with their bank manager – a worrying insight especially in the current climate.

“It is clearly a negative indicator of the quality of relationship that exists between many businesses and their banks.”

When dealing with their bank manager, some 37% feel that they are treated like “just another customer” or

that their bank manager has a very poor understanding of their business. Only 9% feel their bank manager has a very good understanding of their business.

Said Mr Leahy: “It is fundamental that banks have a good working relationship with their business customers and see them on a regular basis.

“We aim to have an open and honest relationship with our customers and encourage our managers to take time to understand their customers businesses and the challenges they face.”

A YORKSHIRE corporate recovery and insolvency lawyer has urged struggling local firms to seek professional advice as quickly as possible because of improving financial support from banks and HM Revenue & Customs.

Andrew Walker, a partner at the national law firm Irwin Mitchell, made the appeal as he was appointed to the regional board of the Association of Business Recovery Professionals, R3.

Mr Walker takes up his new role as vice-chairman for the Yorkshire region of R3, which is one of the most active branches of the leading professional association for insolvency, business recovery and turnaround experts in the UK. Said Mr Walker said: “I am delighted to take up this position and am very excited to be involved in such a proactive and dynamic support organisation.

“R3’s recent successful lobbying for an Insolvency All-Party Parliamentary Group demonstrates just how passionate it is about saving businesses.”

POSITIVE THINKING

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KIRKLEES

Brent joins media team

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A CREATIVE Canadian who has worked with some of the biggest names in music is the new head of Huddersfield’s Media Centre.

Brent Woods has been appointed chief executive for the centre, based at Northumberland Street, in succession to Teo Greenstreet, who is leaving to pursue other interests.

And Mr Woods is keen to build on the centre’s work providing support for the town’s burgeoning creative industries – as well as promoting more collaboration with ‘traditional’ businesses.

Mr Woods, who lives in Sheffield with his wife, Kaye, and daughter n NEW CHIEF: Brent Woods takes up post at the Media Centre Megan, has built up a wealth of experience in the creative industries 1996 and became its director in such people, the Media Centre can be over the past 20 years. a magnet for world-class businesses.”

His most recent role was general 2002.

He won major plaudits for supportThe Friendly Street building, manager of Litestructures Studios in South Kirkby – a stage production ing young film-makers through pro- opened by the Queen in 2007, was an rehearsal space used by major stars grammes including Newcomer’s Day, example of how the Media Centre was including Kylie Minogue, Elton John, Channel 4’s Sheffield Pitch and the at the cutting edge.

Despite the impact of the recession, George Michael and the bands Arctic Jerwood First Cuts Award.

The Media Centre provides a base negotiations were underway with sevMonkeys and Coldplay.

From 1989 to 1995, Mr Woods was for 130 creative businesses – employ- eral potential clients – including busimusic co-ordinator at Toronto’s ing about 300 people across four nesses keen to demonstrate their own acclaimed Harbourfront Centre, buildings in professions including web environmental credentials by taking where he was responsible for pro- design, marketing, film and architec- space in the ‘greenest’ office building in the region. gramming 350 performances a year, ture.

Mr Woods said: “Having worked He said: “The new building adds including 10 consecutive summer weekend music festivals and the within the creative and digital sectors another dimension to the architecToronto edition of the WOMAD for many years, I have watched and tural landscape of the town. admired the development of The “For someone coming into HudFestival.

In the early 1990s, he established Media Centre and the talented busi- dersfield it is an attractive, modern building; it is environmentally susWide Music, a booking agency which nesses based here.”

He said part of his role would be to tainable and it is unique in the handpicked up-and-coming UK musicians to tour Canada’s festival maintain that momentum and ensure world.” that the Media Centre not only supMr Woods said: “We want to make network.

After emigrating to the UK in 1995, ports creative firms, but “contributes the Media Centre a destination. It is important that the centre is not seen Mr Woods became part of the team to the fabric of the town.”

He said: “Huddersfield needs to be as a closed space, but that it is accessthat re-launched the Sheffield International Documentary Festival in nurturing the best talent. Through ible to the people of Huddersfield.”

INDEPENDENT coffee distributor Cooper’s Coffee has been appointed to supply a landmark pub – the Bull at Broughton, near Skipton.

The Bull, which has been taken over by BBC’s Great British Menu star Nigel Haworth as a Ribble Valley Inn, has signed up to buy coffee and coffee-making equipment from Bradley-based Cooper’s Coffee.

Mr Haworth said: “Our philosophy is to always work with local producers and when I ventured into Yorkshire, I wasn’t exactly sure where to find the best quality coffee, having worked with my current supplier for many years.

“Coffee is such an important part of a dining experience.

100%

“You may have got the food right, but finish your meal off with a bad coffee and you can leave feeling disappointed.

“I had heard of Cooper’s Coffee in Huddersfield and went straight over to meet David and – of course – he met all our requests.

“We now have a fantastic blend which we will be serving at The Bull.”

Cooper’s managing director, David Cooper, said: “It’s an honour to be working with a chef as talented and renowned as Nigel Haworth in such a landmark Yorkshire pub.

“I hope that this will be the beginning of a positive long term relationship for Cooper’s Coffee.”

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KIRKLEES BUSINESS

TECH TALK Roger Pearson

UTSOURCING has long been O acknowledged as the way to effectively “buy-in” expertise at times when

host companies have insufficient resources, knowledge, skills, manpower or even inclination in various market sectors.

Operational activities such as human resourcing, document transcription and public relations are just three areas where outsourcing is much practiced by company’s of all shapes and sizes.

And then, of course, we have IT, still perceived by many as something of a black art or a facet of the overall business operation requiring the attentions of highly paid and technically competent people available on a 24/7 basis with a correspondingly high cost.

Small wonder then that in times of plenty outsourcing grew steadily and substantially.

In the recessionary times that now prevail, this growth has increased as companies seek to acquire the necessary skills only for the shortest possible time and at the lowest cost.

But while resolving immediate IT based problems or enhancing current systems, this quest for lower costs – often “married” to high-volume projects – could, if allowed to continue indefinitely, constrain the prospects of success of outsourced work.

Martyn Hart, chairman of the National Outsourcing Association, has said that outsourcing has traditionally been seen as a cost saving mechanism, so it is not surprising it is growing at the moment.

It’s a matter of regret, however, that the increased pressure on companies to cut costs is resulting in many demanding high volume / low cost contracts over shortened time frames which can effectively simply set up the outsourcing to fail.”

The quarterly index indicates growth in the outsourcing market of 8% overall last year while the IT side of business grew by some 12%. Conversely business process outsourcing grew by just 6%.

The real good news, however, is that confidence among outsourcing suppliers as a whole grew by some 40% in 2009 versus 2008, confirming a very positive trend.

To ensure successful outsourcing, it is crucial that contracts agreed between parties are structured so that they work effectively both ways and follow best practice at every stage of the process.

It’s also very important of course for both parties to feel comfortable with each other within a relationship built on trust, respect and understanding.

Failure to address these major issues can only dilute the opportunities for success to the detriment of everyone involved in the process.

Get it right, however, and the prospects are almost unlimited.

Roger Pearson is a project manager at P2 Technologies Ltd, Lockwood

n FARE DEAL: Events such as the Huddersfield Food and Drink Festival were praised in the report for making the town centre a vibrant place

Town centre sets example to follow HUDDERSFIELD has been praised in a report setting out ways to boost recession-hit town centres.

Marketing initiatives undertaken by Huddersfield Town Centre Partnership were held up as examples for others to follow in the report by the British Retail Consortium.

The initiatives carried out by the HTCP include quarterly magazines and newsletters promoting local events and product, an annual guide aimed at students and visitors promoting shops, cafes and bars and regular networking meetings to encourage town centre businesses to trade with each other.

The report said feedback from businesses in the town had been “extremely positive” and membership of the partnership had risen significantly to 175 members. It also highlighted the success of the annual Huddersfield

Food and Drink Festival, which last year attracted more than 40,000 visitors, including a significant number from outside the town’s immediate catchment area.

Huddersfield is one of 20 towns and cities highlighted in the report for their efforts to counter the impact of recession on retail trade. Others included Belfast, Brighton, Bury, Chester, Coventry, Dundee, Edinburgh, Plymouth, Rotherham, Swansea and Wrexham.

Cathy Burger, Huddersfield town centre manager, said K i rk l e e s C o u n c i l a n d t h e HTCPL worked closely together to come up with a recession strategy for the town centre.

It put the focus on marketing, promotion and the appearance of the town centre – building on the own’s strong independent retail sector, major high street names and its indoor and open mar-

kets.

Other measures including i n c re a s i n g d i s t r i bu t i o n o f H T C P L’s H u d d e r s f i e l d Magazine to outside the HD postcode area and increasing distribution of the Inside Huddersfield newsletter to businesses outside the ring road.

HTCPL also encouraged retailers to run promotions during major events such as the Food and Drink Festival; promoted Sunday shopping; re-planting the 52 barrier planters on the ring road. And it aimed to tackle issues raised in three-monthly “street audits” such as graffiti, litter, weeds, unsafe paving and old signs.

Said Cathy: “We are also talking to agents and landlords about being able to use their empty premises to put some sort of window dressing. Once we have got permission, we will be moving quickly to get this done.”

Seminar to help firms A GROUP lobbying for small businesses is helping them secure more public sector work.

The Federation of Small Businesses is staging an event for buyers of goodsd and services to meet potential suppliers on September 8 at Pontefract Racecourse.

Mike Salamon, chairman of the FSB West Yorkshire region, said local authorities and the police were among thoe to rise to the challenge and identify opportunities for small businesses across the area.

“In these difficult times, we were looking for practical ways in which councils and other public

sector organisations can help small business directly,” said Mr Salamon. “One way is to buy more goods and services from them.

“Feedback from our members showed that the normal tendering processes, aimed at larger contracts, has proved daunting for small businesses and the size of contracts unsuitable.”

FSB regional secretary Gill Lang said: “The FSB is running a ‘Keep Trade Local’ campaign and it would be great if this event leads to more of the money that councils raise locally being spent locally.

“Small businesses employ local people who spend money with local businesses. The real aim of the event is to encourage more businesses to think about selling their wares to the public sector as well as to encourage councils to make it easier for them to do so.”

Those taking part in the event include West Yorkshire Police, the five local councils and Busniess Link Yorkshire.

Businesses can find out more and book a place at the event by ringing Business Link on 08456 048 048 or online at www.businesslinkyorkshire.co.uk/events.

A BATLEY woman is among the finalists in a competition for women in business.

Kim Roberts is among the contenders for the Hidden Talent of the Year category in the 2009 Specsavers everywomen in Retail Awards.

The awards, which are run in association with Make Your Mark, aim to celebrate the contribution made by women in the retail sector – and highlight the opportunities available for women wanting to pursue a challenging and rewarding career in retail.

Kim joined Bradford-based supermarket chain Morrison’s in 1986, rapidly climbing the corporate ladder to become head of retail human resources.

In this role, she is responsible for all matters which affect the company’s 115,000 retail employees – from recruitment, health and safety and pay and benefits to building the framework for its training programme.

Kim has seen the company through huge change – not least the takeover of Safeway in 2004, when she oversaw the integration of 55,000 new people into Morrison’s.

She puts her success down to hard work, surrounding herself with a great team and retaining her beliefs in what is fair and right as she has moved up the organisation.

“It’s really humbling to read my application form and see what fantastic things my colleagues have written about me,” said Kim. Despite 60% of employees in retail being female, there are very few women in senior management positions – a fact that prompted everywoman to launch the awards programme in 2008. I Fewer than 5% of chief executives in retail companies are female and only 8% of purchasing decisions in these organisations are made by women – a figure that has remained largely unchanged for the past decade.

The winners of the seven different categories will be announced on September 16 at The Marriott, Grosvenor Square, London.

KIRKLEES

Craig powers ahead with a new venture A COMMON mistake on the petrol station forecourt provided the spark for a new business venture.

Businessman Craig Biggington caused more than a thousand pounds of damage to his car attempting to run it after mistakenly putting petrol in the tank instead of diesel.

And knowing that many drivers make the same error – with equally diastrous results – he decided to set up a new service to put things right at a reasonable price.

Mr Biggington has joined forces with experienced mechanic Peter Mitchell to launch Fuel Doctor, based at Mr Mitchell’s Brockholes garage.

Said Mr Biggington: “Most people realise they have made a mistake while they are still on the petrol station forecourt.

“In those cases, we can take the vehicle to one side, drain the fuel, clean out the lines and sort it out there and then.

“If people have run the car, the engine can cut out and rectifying it involves more work.”

Mr Biggington said most people call out their breakdown recovery company to deal with the problem, thinking there will be no charge – only to face a bill running into hundreds of pounds because the damage was due to a mistake by the driver.

They could also be charged for disposing of the mixed fuel.

Said Mr Biggington: “We have only been operating Fuel Doctor for a few weeks, but we are already being recommended to motorists by petrol stations.”

Mr Biggington said figures showed that the AA alone is called out to 166,000 “mis-fuelling” incidents a year.

“Mis-fuelling is a common mistake where people are swapping betwen diesel and petrol vehicles – such as people using hire cars, company cars, works vans or even the second family car,” he said.

A SOUTHOWRAM firm has received a helping hand from Wilby Risk Management.

Halifax-based Wilby has helped JI Electronics to achieve its annual Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme accreditation. JI Electronics specialises in making and installing controls and electronic designs systems.

n FUEL STATION: Craig Biggington who has launched a new business to rectify refuelling mishaps when the wrong type of fuel has been put in vehicles

BUSINESS professionals in Huddersfield were brought together to discuss how to help local firms prepare for an economic upturn.

Lloyds TSB Commercial organised the meeting of key local solicitors, accountants and advisers, which was held at the George Hotel.

The aim was to provide practical tips on how companies can get access to guidance and funding, including government-backed loans under the Enterprise Finance Guarantee Scheme.

Under the £1.3bn initiative, the Government guarantees lending to viable businesses to ensure that have the working capital and investment that they need and will support bank lending to UK firms with a turnover of up to £25m.

The event brought together more than 25 local professionals, who heard Greg Flynn of Lloyds TSB Commercial in Huddersfield offer practical advice and valuable guidance on how to manage their way through the downturn.

Following the seminar, attendees had the chance to share their own experiences and discuss ways in which they are helping their clients.

Said Mr Flynn: “The challenges presented by the economic environment in the first half of the year has put pressure on many firms in Huddersfield, making access to advice vital.

“We wanted to take the opportunity to engage with the local professional community in order to look at how we can work together to support the region’s businesses as they prepare for an upturn.”

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Trevor Fuller, risk management consultant with Wilby, worked closely with JI Electronics to ensure the firm met the standards required by CHAS and continued to develop its health and safety procedures as part of normal working routine.

JI Electronics director Ian Jickells said: “The CHAS application takes some time to complete, but we feel being a CHAS approcal contractor clearly demonstrates the importance we place on health and safety.

Wilby Risk Management offered tremendous assistance in the assessment and provides great ongoing support.”

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KIRKLEES BUSINESS

Mansion is next stop for refreshment

COFFEE distributor Cooper’s Coffee has been appointed as the exclusive supplier of tea and coffee for one of Leeds’ most loved historic buildings – The Mansion in Roundhay Park.

Cooper’s, based at Bradley, will provide a selection of high quality, speciality loose teas as well as its own blend of award-winning espresso coffee, Louie Mio, in the Georgian building, which is undergoing extensive refurbishment.

The Grade II listed building, dating from the early 1800s, has been taken over by Leeds event and catering firm Dine, which has teamed up with Leeds City Council to offer this impressive venue to corporate and private clients.

Dine’s award-winning design team is refurbishing the interior of The Mansion – which has stood empty since 2004 – with a view to the work being completed by late summer.

When completed, The Mansion will cater for wedding receptions, civil ceremonies, corporate events and private celebrations, offering two large ballrooms for hire as well as three meeting rooms.

A 55-seater café-restaurant will provide light lunches, afternoon teas and dinner in the Garden Room or outside on the terrace – while a

takeaway counter and deli will cater for those who wish to consume their drinks further afield in the park.

Cooper’s managing director, David Cooper, estimates that between £15,000 and £20,000 worth of tea and coffee will be consumed at The Mansion each year.

He said: “As a Yorkshire-based supplier, we are thrilled to be involved in the resurrection of one of the region’s most impressive historical buildings.

“With 25 bookings already secured for weddings this year and next, The Mansion looks set to become one of Leeds’ most popular and successful venues.”

Daniel Gill, managing director of Dine, was responsible for appointing Cooper’s. He said: “We are aiming to set up a café of the highest quality and Cooper’s brings with it a level of service, support and training that is unavailable elsewhere in the region.

“Having invested in extremely expensive coffee machines for the venue, I wanted to pair these with a service and product of the same calibre. I’m confident that Cooper’s will allow us to offer our customers the very best tea and coffee available in the region.”

n WELL DONE: Saleem Arif (left) director of Quality Solicitors.com, hands over the Quality Solicitors Award to partner of Armitage Sykes Martin Thompson (right) and head of dispute resolution Alexander Ude

HUDDERSFIELD law firm Armitage Sykes has been awarded membership of an exclusive alliance of high quality solicitor firms.

QualitySolicitors.com promotes the use of real solicitor firms over “call centre law”.

It has initially selected just 100 of the best solicitor firms nationwide to form the founder membership – and has chosen Armitage Sykes, based at New North Road, as one of them.

QualitySolicitors.com works by matching users of its free online service to the best solicitor for their particular needs within the organisation’s member firms.

Armitage Sykes partner Martin Thompson said:

Senior solicitor joins national legal group

Responsible Long Term Investing We manage funds for private clients, charities, trusts and pension funds.

We can help you in all aspects of your financial planning, whether it’s your investments, pension or general financial matters.

We are committed to providing high quality independent professional advice with the aim of helping our clients to achieve their financial objectives.

Sue Cash

Simplify your life Rensburg Sheppards Investment Management Quayside House, Canal Wharf, Leeds, LS11 5PU Tel: +44 (0)113 245 4488 E-mail: info.leeds@rsim.co.uk Member firm of the London Stock Exchange. Member of Liffe. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Rensburg Sheppards Investment Management Limited is registered in England. Registered No. 2122340. Registered Office: Quayside House Canal Wharf Leeds LS11 5PU. Offices at: Belfast Cheltenham Edinburgh Farnham Glasgow Leeds Liverpool London Manchester Reigate Sheffield.

“We are delighted that the quality of service we strive for has been recognised by being accepted into this exclusive organisation.”

QualitySolicitors.com rejected four out of five applications made to it for membership – accepting only those with an outstanding track record.

The organisation’s chief executive, barrister Craig Holt, said: “I am extremely pleased to welcome Armitage Sykes LLP into our alliance.

“All member firms are selected for their exceptional quality.

“They are subject to continual feedback, with any firm not meeting our standards forced to leave the organisation.”

SUE Cash, head of the private client department at Huddersfield-based solicitors Ridley & Hall, has been named as a member of the national association Solicitors for the Elderly.

SFE is an association of lawyers who specialise in legal services for older people and their carers.

Members of SFE have a wealth of experience within this key legal area and they are required to have spent a substantial amount of time working for elderly clients.

The aim of the association is to improve the knowledge and service provided on legal issues, including tax planning, wills, powers of attorney, long-term social and health care and other retirement issues.

Ridley & Hall, with offices at Market Street, provides a variety of specialist legal services.

The firm has a team of lawyers who specialise in legal issues for the elderly.

Sue Cash is a highly experienced solicitor and notary

public. She specialises in wills, probate, trusts, estate administration, powers of attorney, elderly client advice, work involving the Office of the Public Guardian including the appointment of deputies and Notarial work.

Said Ms Cash: “I have been specialising in legal services for the elderly for 15 years. I am looking forward to continuing my development in this area so that I am able to give my clients and colleagues first class legal advice .”

Bosses urged to take action

KIRKLEES employers have been urged to protect workers from the UK’s fastest growing occupation disease – workplace asthma.

The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health said that every year in the UK, 7,000 people were thought to contract occupational asthma that was caused by their work or made worse by their work. Many of these people were left so disabled that they never worked again.

The IOSH said employers lost more than

18m working days each year as a result of asthma at work – time businesses could ill afford to “fritter away” in the middle of a recession. The costs to society as a whole was estimated £1.1bn each decade.

The IOSH said workers at particular risk included vehicle spray painters; bakers and flour confectioners; moulders, core makers and die casters; vets or laboratory workers.

Nattasha Freeman, IOSH president, said: “Employers have a legal duty to ensure they

prevent their workers from being exposed to substances that can harm health.

“Where they can’t do this, then they should provide personal protective equipment.

“Respiratory diseases kill one in five people in the UK, and ruin many more lives. We need to do more to prevent people developing asthma and other respiratory diseases.

“Health and safety professionals can help employers ensure their workforce doesn’t develop these unpleasant diseases.”

KIRKLEES

COMMUNICATIONS group Link Telecom has moved its head office from Keighley to new premises at The Waterfront, Saltaire.

The group retains a presence in Calderdale through its UK fixed line division headquarters in Mytholmroyd and its southern cellular division in Camberley, Surrey.

Chief executive Gary Fawcett said: “The move to our high-tech, multi-purpose space in the rejuvenated canal wharf area has proved seamless. It now provides us with an opportunity to build on the phenomenal growth we are experiencing across the UK.” Link Telecom provides mobile voice and data, fixed line telephony installation and support, and ICT infrastructure, upgrade and support.

The group has reported “robust” growth in turnover and gross profit for its current financial year – both showing a near-15% increase on the previous 12 months.

Said Mr Fawcett: “We are on target to deliver record revenues this calendar year – and are extremely well-positioned to respond to future opportunities and challenges in our industry sector.”

n TIOP MARKS: Sara Collin (left) receives the Excellence in Business Placement Gold Award from Revell Ward’s Karen Borowski

A WORK placement student has won an award for excellence.

Sara Collin was presented with the Excellence in Business Placement Gold Award

by Karen Borowski, partner at accountancy firm Revell Ward.’s Karen Borowski. The presentation was held at Huddersfield University.

Sara won the award for her strong work ethic, ability to manage challenges and her overall confidence.

Karen said: “It is a pleasure to reward Sara’s achievements. Here at Revell Ward, we are committed to encouraging and developing such talent. As always it is a privilege to work with the university as we strive to meet our common goals of nurturing and retaining talent locally.”

Revell Ward is one of a number of accountancy firms taking part in the university’s Partners in Accountancy initiative, which also includes KPMG, PricewaterhouseCoopers, BDO Stoy Hayward, Baker Tilly, Grant Thornton and Kirk Newsholme, Wheawill and Sudworth and Simpson Wood.

The partnership builds on established links with many of the firms and has been warmly received by the accountants. Under the scheme, the firms will offer Huddersfield students mentoring opportunities, provide guest lectures, and the opportunity to visit the practices.

n SUCCESS: Pictured at an awards ceremony at ESTL's Folly Hall Mills premises are (front, from left) Rani Fatima; Clr Christine Iredale, of Kirklees Council; Nicole Armstrong of ESTL; and Faqir Mohammad

Cabbies hail ESTL trainers

A COMPANY in Huddersfield has been hailed for its taxi driver training courses.

Now ESTL, based at Folly Hall Mills, is extending its training scheme throughout the UK after successfully running it across Kirklees.

ESTL has successfully trained thousands of drivers in Yorkshire to achieve Level 2 NVQ certificates in Road Passenger Vehicle Driving. Now it is rolling out Level 2 BTEC Awards in Transporting Passengers by Taxi & Private Hire.

Many local authorities in the UK now regard these qualifications as mandatory for taxi and private hire drivers.

Nicole Armstrong, senior programme recruiter of ESTL, said: “This qualification is available now and can be delivered at national venues to suit the drivers.

“We have worked with the taxi and private hire industry during the past two years and have delivered thousands of similar awards.”

She said: “Our trainers and assessors are qualified, professional and friendly and all have current experience of the Level 2 BTEC courses.”

The BTEC course consists of two to three days of classroom training, which includes practice assessments, tutor support and online assessment.

It covers areas including customer ser-

vice, equality and diversity, passenger transport and disability awareness, transporting passengers safely, carring luggage and parcels, map reading and route planning and taxi and private hire regulations.

ESTL first launched its driver NVQ programme – which was endorsed by Go Skills – 18 months ago.

This programme was fully funded by the Learning and Skills Council for Yorkshire and Humber, under its Train to Gain initiative.

Clr Christine Iredale, who chairs the licensing committee of Kirklees Council, praised ESTL’s role in training and assessing taxi and private hire drivers.

She said: “Many congratulations are due to the taxi drivers themselves for their excellent achievement and to ESTL for training and assessing them so well.

“At Kirklees, we are proud to be a forward-thinking authority committed to the safety of the public and the drivers alike.

“We are also proud of our relationship with ESTL.” Said Nicole: “We were really thrilled by the success of our first training programme for taxi drivers and are now looking forward to recruiting more drivers to improve their skills.”

ROADSIDE rescue business Britannia Rescue has been named as the latest sponsor at Huddersfield’s Galpharm Stadium.

The company, which is based at the railway building in St George’s Square, has agreed a five-year deal to sponsor a stand at the home of Huddersfield Town and Huddersfield Giants.

The Antich Stand will be rebranded the Britannia Rescue stand in a deal which will also involvde the Britannia rescue name appearing in various parts of the stadium for all sporting events.

Britannia Rescue will also benefit from big screen advertising during Town and Giant matches, ticket branding on each of the 500,000 stadium tickets issued every year – and on any tickets for concerts or other major events held at stadium – as well as a branded presence on the stadium website with a direct link to the Britannia Rescue site.

Britannia Rescue is the fourth largest breakdown provider in the UK and is part of the LV= group of companies.

It has a network of more than 300 independent rescue agents UK-wide and its average response time to callouts is just 40 minutes.

Simon Stevens, general manager of Britannia Rescue, said: “We are delighted to have agreed this deal with the Galpharm Stadium.”

Ralph Rimmer, stadium managing director, said: “This relationship has come about due to the recent business success of Britannia Rescue.

“It’s a company with which I have no doubt we will enjoy a mutually advantageous alliance in the future.

“Yet again, even in difficult times, this sponsorship proves that the stadium continues to attract top quality partners.”

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Laura bounces back A MARKETING expert has bounced back following the collapse of theatre and training company CragRats.

Laura Kirwan, who was marketing director at the Holmfirth-based company until it succumbed to severe cashflow problems in June, has set up Circle Marketing to help companies weather the recession.

And Laura, a chartered marketer with more than 11 years of marketing experience, said she had already secured contracts with a number of local businesses.

“I have created my own marketing agency to help other businesses flourish,” she said.

“Many organisations are spending money

on marketing initiatives that are not delivering a return. My aim is to help businesses increase sales, retention and profits.”

Laura was one of about 70 people who lost their jobs when CragRats collapsed.

She said: “It was a real blow to lose CragRats, not just for the staff who lost their jobs but to the local business community as a whole.

“The job market is slow, so I decided to grab the bull by the horns and go it alone.

It’s only been a few weeks and I have been incredibly busy. Circle Marketing is my chance to pass some of the experience I have gained onto other companies.”

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KIRKLEES BUSINESS

CITY TALK Simon Kaye AN APPRENTICE painter and decorator has brushed aside the competition to win a regional award.

Francesco Sharp, 18, of Birstall, who is a student at Leeds College of Building, was named Northern Apprentice of the Year in the regional heat of Dulux Decorator Centres’ national competition to be named Northern Apprentice of the Year.

Francesco, who works for Morley-based Stuart Shopfitting, had to complete a series of timed practical demonstrations, including wallpapering, stencilling and creating special effects at the competition, which was held at Doncaster College.

He won ÂŁ100 in cash prize, a certificate and a Dulux Decorator Centres goody bag full of useful products.

Francesco is about to enter his third and final year at Leeds College of Building, where he is set to take an advanced course in painting and decorating.

He said: “I’m really chuffed to win the competition because there were a lot of talented people in it. The demonstrations really put each of us to the test.�

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t says something for the improvement Islipped in market sentiment that, having back for a month, equities were

n WARM WORK: Richard Armitage (left), housing projects manager for Calderdale Council with (from left) Dyson Insulation directors Tony Hardiman, Andrew Allsop and Ian Morrrall

Comfortable contract win A BRIGHOUSE company has warmed to its task following a major contract win.

Dyson Insulations, based at Armytage Road, has been appointed by Calderdale Council as preferred installer for a new energy efficiency scheme providing free and discounted insulation, draught proofing and tank jackets for all private householders in the borough.

The free measures are available to people of any age with an illness or condition related to the cold as well as households receiving income or disability related benefits and households with an occupier aged 60 or over.

Significant discounts are available for households that don’t qualify for the free insulation with current prices starting from just £99 for cavity wall insulation and £149 for loft insulation.

The contract is funded using Regional Housing Board money and other grants.

Teams of Dyson installers have begun to carry out work in the borough to help people save money on next winter’s fuel bills. People living in an un-insulated three-bedroom semi-detached home could save as much as £360 a year on their bills if they have the insulation work carried out.

The contract win is a significant coup for the company, which draws most of its workers from the Calderdale area.

Dyson Insulations, which has its roots in the local area, has expanded in recent years – opening five new depots in the north, recruiting some 300 additional staff and achieving a turnover of £30m.

The company has gained a growing

reputation as a market leader in its field and has been employed and retained by numerous county councils.

Managing director Tony Hardiman said: “It’s great to be appointed to a scheme such as this on our home ground. “For our teams to be able to make a real impact within the communities in which they live and work creates a great feel-good factor and demonstrates a sustainable approach by Calderdale Council.

He said: “Calderdale Council is showing great commitment to supporting residents through the implementation of energy efficiency measures and practices. “We really need to highlight the huge benefits that can be gained through the installation of cavity wall and loft insulation and encourage those eligible to utilise this fantastic offer.�

Clr Ian Cooper, Calderdale Council’s cabinet member for community services, said: “The council is pleased to be able to appoint local firm Dyson Insulations as the preferred contractor. “The council is committed to helping residents save money on their energy bills and reduce carbon emissions within Calderdale and is keen to introduce initiatives that will make a real difference to people’s lives.�

Householders interested in applying for the scheme should contact Dyson Insulations on tel 0800 833018 or the Council’s Housing Energy Action Team on 0845 245 6000 / email heat@calderdale.gov.uk

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FRANK Taaffe has been appointed mechanical and electrical services director for infrastructure specialist Morgan Est. Mr Taaffe , who comes from Huddersfield, will take responsibility for the Warwickshire-based group’s mechanical and electrical services, which account for about 10% of total turnover.

A member of the Institution of Engineering and Technology, Mr Taaffe has more than 30 years experience in the sector.

He joins Morgan Est from NG Bailey, where he was business director responsible for rail operations.

Morgan Est specialises in designing and delivering complex engineering projects.

able to move to higher ground in the second half of July.

It looks as if investors have consciously, after reflection, been prepared to pay higher prices, rather than prices overshooting as a result of the momentum from the initial market rebound. Consequently, the equity rally has gained a second wind in recent weeks, prompted by better than expected news from the corporate sector and increased signs that the economic cycle was turning positive, not simply deteriorating less rapidly, which had been the case when the rally first started in March.

The substantial monetary and fiscal easing over the past year has assisted in the recapitalisation of parts of the corporate sector (as the financial markets have started to function properly) and helped to mitigate the worst of the recession that gripped the global economy last winter. So far, the data mainly indicate that sharp falls in output have given way to smaller falls or signs of stability but business surveys suggest that growth may be set to resume slowly in the second half of the year. Some companies are benefiting from a degree of restocking, while the depressed US housing market is now steadying after its three year decline. There are hopes that this may become self-reinforcing, as improved confidence leads to increased spending, taking the pressure off companies to cut costs, leading to a reduced headwind for consumer demand as fears of unemployment reduce.

Although the stock market has been inclined to view incoming news through rose-tinted glasses, the Bank of England appears to view the normalisation of lending markets are “work in progressâ€? rather than “job doneâ€?. It has decided to add a further ÂŁ50bn to the existing total of ÂŁ125bn of “quantitative easingâ€? (the mechanism whereby it has boosted the money supply by purchasing assets from the private sector). While investors have seen the doughnut, the Bank has seen the hole.

It would not be prudent to demand too much from the incipient signs that output is turning around but nor should they be ignored.

The process of weaning the world economy off debt onto a leaner diet without starving the patient will demand careful policy making, with the risk of unexpected events intervening to disrupt the adjustment process. However, the authorities have restored a measure of confidence, so that it is reasonable now to hope that the debt repayment process will be gradual and therefore less damaging than the forced pace of deleveraging evident last winter. The Bank of England, for its part, remains concerned rather than complacent so the period of ultra-loose monetary policy is set to continue.

One cautionary note after the recent run up in the markets is that, although riskier assets (such as equities) are still reasonable value some of the most cyclically sensitive sectors have made all the running, leaving them vulnerable if setbacks occur. The equity wallflowers have been lowly valued dividend stocks in defensive sectors – when will these stocks start dancing?

Simon Kaye is Divisional Director at Rensburg Sheppards Investment Management

KIRKLEES

BANKER'S BLOG Jill Hague

ORE than 75,000 businesses in the M UK are exporting their goods and services to international marketplaces and

one in four business customers sell their goods or services overseas – making the UK the sixth-largest exporter of goods and the second-largest exporter of services in the world.

However, despite the UK maintaining a global reputation and an impressive track record, there are still opportunities for businesses from Calderdale and Kirklees to develop their own exporting capabilities and harness new revenue streams.

The impact of the economic downturn continues to test many businesses within the UK. However, as the domestic landscape continues to contract, the exploration of new markets becomes ever more attractive.

The recent weakness of the pound against other major international currencies such as the dollar and euro, means that UK goods and services are even more competitively-priced.

This – coupled with the greater penetration of the internet through the widespread availability of broadband and improved security in ecommerce – has served as a catalyst, encouraging an even greater number of businesses to transcend from being domestic to international businesses.

According to a European Union report, the primary obstacles experienced by businesses when exporting for the first time include language, cultural and technical barriers, cross-border logistics and payments, administrative and regulatory issues and making the most of search engines and advertising.

One area that can be particularly problematic for businesses is the administration involved in chasing invoices and accepting payments in multiple currencies across different time zones and a range of languages.

It’s also important for companies that do business internationally to protect themselves against risk. Exporters can consider specialist international trade services such as documentary credits to reduce the risk of non-payment and delivery of goods and international invoice finance for collection of overseas invoices. And to protect against currency exchange rate fluctuations, FX solutions – such as forward contracts and currency options – can help safeguard international traders.

The introduction of the Single Euro Payments Area has made the movement of Euro funds much easier for companies operating within the Eurozone. For qualifying Euro payments, there is no longer a differentiation between a “domestic” and a “cross-border” Euro payment, which means lower charges for businesses.

At HSBC, we are encouraging our new and existing customers to make the most of the opportunities that exist for them by exporting.

They will draw on HSBC’s unrivalled global presence, including advice on setting up international bank accounts and moving money around the globe, to handling cultural sensitivities, and arranging valuable introductions in key markets.

With branches in nearly 90 countries we are well placed to support businesses with a range of specialist products and local expertise required to export successfully.

Please email me at jillhague@hsbc.com Jill Hague is Head of Commercial Banking for HSBC in Huddersfield

n WEB FEAT: Richard Ward, of Keystone Healthcare, with Michael Freemantle and Nikki Philllipson, of 10 Associates and the new-look website

managing & protecting your wealth AN award-winning agency provided the right diagnosis to help a healthcare provider stand out from the crowd.

Bradley-based Keystone Healthcare Group turned to near-neighbour 10 Associates for expert help to boost its web presence and branding.

Keystone, which provides temporary and permanent staff, training and domiciliary care, took part in one of 10 Associate’s Brandschool training courses to understand the process and principles that can help make a winner by creating electronic brand impact.

Brandschool half or full-day courses, which are tailored to each client, make full use of 10’s own successful approach to delivering and building a brand identity.

David Worthington, of 10 Associates, said: “It was clear that Keystone's success was due to its high quality professionalism, so our vision was to ensure this personality was transferred to the web.”

Richard Ward, director at Keystone Healthcare Group, said: “Brandschool helped to refocus attention on the core objectives for the business and clearly demonstrated the advantages of brand development.

“The launch of our new website is fantastic and is a significant step forward for the company as a whole.

“Our business structure is now clearly defined and the site portrays the company as friendly, quality focused and a professional team and now we feel is a true representation of our business model and vision.”

Following the new design, Keystone has now achieved NHS Purchase and Supply Agency approval.

Star performer A RESTAURANT operator has earned a five-star rating – for the second time.

The Laxmi Restaurant at Woodhead Road, Berry Brow, has received its five-star rating under Kirklees Council’s Scores on the Doors scheme, which rates local eating establishments for health, hygiene and the standard of their facilities.

Partners Chanda Bhalla, Anita Bhalla and Chetan Varma were particularly pleased by the accolade because their other restaurant, The India, at Holmfirth, received its five-star rating in May last year.

The partners have been trading at the 80-seater Laxmi for 14 years and acquired the India, which has 50 covers, in February, 2007.

The five-star ratings were awarded following stringent inspections by Kirklees environmental health officials, who called unannounced. Restaurants, takeaways, catering establishments and food shops are given a star rating between zero and five – with five being excellent and zero very poor.

The ratings are listed at www.scoresonthedoors.org.

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KIRKLEES BUSINESS

ON THE MOVE

Paper project A GROUP promoting recycling has as a new project manager.

Mark Gregory (right) joins Resource Efficiency Yorkshire to work with businesses and local authorities in Yorkshire to increase the amount of paper and cardboard sent for recycling and reuse.

He will also identify cost savings, business, investment and job creation opportunities created by implementing resource efficiency.

REY is a business support and market development delivery programme funded by regional development agency Yorkshire Forward and the

European Regional Development Fund.

He joins REY from Re s o u rc e F u t u re s, where he was project m a n ag e r fo r t h e UK-wide Community RePaint initiative. He is a member of the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management and the Society for the Environment.

Energy booster A GROUP set up to help firms make more efficient use of energy has announced a key appointment.

Ashley Robb (right) has been named as sector development mana g e r a t Re s o u r c e Efficiency Yorkshire – taking responsibility for a team of project managers and consultants delivering REY’s new £9.8m programme of business support.

REY, funded by regional development agency Yorkshire Forward and the European Regional Development Fund, is investing in a range of initiatives to help Yorkshire profit from better use of water, energy and waste; green design and sustainable procurement.

Mr Robb and his team will be working to support the develop-

ment of projects that expand access to resource efficient services for organic waste, food waste, plastics, glass, paper, wood and waste electronic and electrical equipment.

He joins REY from Re s o u r c e F u t u r e s where he was principal consultant. He is a member of the Chartered Institute of Wastes Management and has a master degree in wastes management.

Family fortunes MARK Green has been appointed to the team at Huddersfield law firm Holroyd & Co. Mr Green (pictured) joins the firm’s family and litigation department at John William Street.

Mr Green, who lives in the Holme Valley, began his career with Heap Marshall & Heeley in Holmfirth and Huddersfield.

Following its merger with Bailey Smailes, he became a partner heading its matrimonial and civil litigation department.

Mr Green is a member of Resolution, formerly the Solicitors Family Law Association, and is a trained collaborative lawyer.

Holroyd & Co also has offices at Milnsbridge.

Senior posts filled at PwC SENIOR appointments have been announced by PricewaterhouseCoopers in Yorkshire.

Arif Ahmad has been promoted to partner in assurance.

The company also has six new directors with the appointment of Anna Bielby, Karen Finlayson, Jo Maguire, Matthew Hodge from the assurance department and Jay Abbot, from risk assurance services and Mark Jennings, of business recovery services.

Mr Ahmad joined the firm in 1996 and spent 11 years in Leeds before moving to London in 2007. He has spent most of his career in audit, has completed a six-month secondment to the USA, and has extensive due diligence experience.

Ms Beilby joined PwC Leeds in 1998 and has spent most of her career in the audit department as well as six months in PwC's performance improvement consulting team. She specialises in the retail sector and is a key member of PwC’s Northern retail team.

Ms Maguire has specialised exclusively in pensions since 1999 and provides audit and assurance services to PwC pension clients in the region.

She has participated in a number of risk management and internal controls projects with schemes utilising her extensive technical knowledge and experi-

n SENIOR TEAM: PricewaterhouseCooper's new senior appointments (from left) Karen Finlayson, Matthew Hodge, Anna Bielby, Arif Ahmad and Jo Maguire

ence within the sector.

Mr Hodge will be building PwC’s public sector accounting advisory business across the North and supporting its development nationally.

He recently returned to the firm from a year-long secondment to the Department of Health, where he was responsible for IFRS implementation.

Mr Abbott has extensive experience in e-business, intellectual property, enterprise network infrastructure design, security architecture design and penetra-

tion testing. He has worked across multiple sectors including private, industry, financial and new media.

Mr Jennings has worked in the firm's business recovery services team for the last nine years, initially working on bank advisory and insolvency assignments.

Over the last 12 months, he has specialised in advising pension trustees and corporate clients in respect of defined benefit pension liabilities as part of the national BRS pensions initiative.

Partner in place A NEW senior partner has been appointed at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Leeds.

Paul Nixon (left) has been a partner with PwC since 1991 and has been based in Leeds since 1996.

Previously at the Newcastle office, he is the northern leader of the publicly quoted company team and

SHEFFIELD businesswoman Maria-Barbara Noack has been appointed Yorkshire and Humber policy chairman for the Federation of Small Businesses.

Ms Noack (right) succeeds Tony Cherry, who has stepped down as policy chairman after being elected national vice-chairman of the 215,000-strong lobby group.

Ms Noack, who joined the FSB in 2003, is a qualified nurse who also runs two businesses – one providing a business resource management service and the other based on her skills as an artist who has

exhibited in mainland Europe and the UK. She said: “The FSB has good representation in Yorkshire and Humber and we look forward to continuing to grow as increasing numbers of small enterprises realise that they need a strong, respected organisation to represent their interests, especially in the current tough economic climate.”

Born in Germany, Barbara Noack comes from a family of prolific entrepreneurs and business owners and studied art the Institution of Art & Design Bochum-Wattenscheid.

a full-time client service partner.

He advises companies in the technology, construction, mining, food retailing and telecommunications sectors.

Mr Nixon, who is married with three children, will work with new northern senior partner, Steve Denison.

A FORMER department head at Blackburn College has been appointed vice-principal of Calderdale College in Halifax.

Peter Nangle (above) was head of business, computing and technology at Blackburn College, which was judged to be “outstanding” at its last Ofsted inspection.

Mr Nangle said: “Calderdale College has made huge strides forward in recent years, with a broader curriculum reaching out to individuals and the business community.

“It offers a greater number of courses at degree level, including a r a n g e o f n e w work-related foundation degrees and is in the top 5% of schools and colleges nationally for the ‘contextual added value’ score of achievement by those aged 16 or over.

“Improved success rates for learners and an ambition for excellence in delivering skills and learning won the college a ‘good’ rating in its last Ofsted report.

“The college has clear strategies in place along with excellent values and can, I believe, take significant steps forward over the next 12 months to achieve ‘outstanding’ status’.”

JASON Bruce has been appointed business development manager at Bradley-based independent coffee distributor Cooper’s Coffee.

Mr Bruce (above) has more than 13 years experience in sales and marketing in sectors including the law, construction, contract publishing, sales and newspapers.

Most recently he wo rke d fo r H a r rogate-based contract publishing house Barker Brooks.

KIRKLEES

LEGAL BRIEF Peter Matthews

T has been a long-established rule Imeaning that when a court interprets the of a contract, pre-contract

negotiations between parties should have no bearing and therefore be inadmissible.

However in contrast, a recent House of Lords judgment in the case of Chartbrook Limited v Persimmon Homes Limited and others, considered whether it may be appropriate to delve into such pre-contract considerations to provide a clearer meaning to ambiguous terms.

Chartbrook and Persimmon entered into an agreement in 2001 where Permimmon would build residential properties on land owned by Chartbrook. Incorporated into the agreement was a clause where Persimmon would make a further payment to Chartbrook depending on the revenue generated from the finished properties.

The parties failed to agree on the additional sum whereby a difference of approximately £3.5 million existed.

Persimmon argued that the pre-contractual negotiations confirmed their interpretation on the calculation. They sought to persuade the courts that they should have regard to the negotiations when interpreting the contract which ultimately would lead to a position favouring Persimmon.

The High Court and the Court of Appeal, however favoured the evidence of Chartbrook. The courts stated that, although the pre-contract documentation did appear to support Persimmon’s interpretation, this however, was not Chartbrook’s understanding of the agreement at the time they entered into the contract.

Surprisingly, Chartbrook expert witnesses, on re-reading the correspondence for the purposes of the litigation, accepted that they could see how it supported Persimmon’s interpretation.

Chartbrook’s claim was successful in the first instance and upheld in the Court of Appeal.

Persimmon appealed to the House of Lords, where their appeal was upheld on the grounds that there was a clear mistake in the contract and rectification was required.

Persimmon’s standing argument to rely on pre-contract negotiations was rejected by the Lords, who stressed that to abandon the general rule would lead to greater uncertainty of outcome in disputes over contractual negotiations and increased expense and duration.

It is incompetent to consider pre-contractual negotiations when construing the terms of a contract. This rule is embedded in contract law and with the principle the formal contract should form the entire agreement as opposed to a collation of what is said or written between the parties throughout negotiations. l The information in this article is for general purposes and guidance only and does not purport to constitute legal or professional advice.

Peter Matthews is a member of the commercial law team at Austin Kemp Solicitors

n RIBBON CUTTING: The Yorkshire Linen Company’s Huddersfield team (from left) Jacky Warner, store manager Ann Robinson, Debbie Sykes and Sara Woodcock open the store for business after the £500,000 refit

A SOFT furnishings shop in Huddersfield town centre has re-opened after a £100,000 facelift.

The Yorkshire Linen Co store a t M a r ke t Ave n u e M a r ke t Avenue Shopping Centre outlet – which this year celebrates 10 years of trading – has been transformed as part of the company’s policy of continual improvement in all its 43 stores.

The bulk of the money has

been spent re-designing and re-fitting the shop floor – making it easier for customers to find what they are want.

Yorkshire Linen Company mana ging director Ross Leventhal said: “This significant investment has been carried out with the customer in mind and proves our long-term commitment to Huddersfield.

“We are now looking forward to continuing our successful relationship with the town.

Here’s to the next 10 years.”

The Yorkshire Linen Company was started in 1993 by Ross and his wife Kirsteen.

Since then, it has grown to have 43 stores employing more than 250 people in the UK, Spain and Portugal.

Each store stocks a wide range of home furnishings for every room in the house and the company has recently added beds to its product range available to order.

Individual effort helps relaunch for Ben Shaws WHEN the owners of soft drinks brand Ben Shaws were seeking a new look for the product – they turned to a Huddersfield agency.

The Individual Agency, based at Wellington Mills, Lindley, was given the brief to ebrand the family favourite soft drinks brand Ben Shaws for Cott Beverages Ltd. The Individual Agency was engaged to re-establish the brand across new packaging and create a consumer microsite in a bid to win back old fans and tempt new devotees.

To celebrate the brands heritage, the new packaging features genuine old photographs from the Ben Shaws archives and taps into the current trend for nostalgia with colours and design “cues” reminiscent of “the good old days”.

The new consumer microsite – www.drinksofyesteryear.co.uk – features nostalgic elements that many will remember from their childhood, including a ‘shoot the can’ game and a section for visitors to share their own memories of Ben Shaws.

Tracey Owens, client services director at The Individual Agency, said: “This has been a fantastic project to work on – and it’s nice to celebrate the fact that Ben Shaws has stood the

n IN THE CAN: The Individual Agency, based at Wellington Mills, Lindley, has re-designed the Ben Shaws soft drinks range

test of time.

“The packaging and microsite has been designed to take consumers on a nostalgic trip back to the good old days and re-inforce the brand’s Yorkshire roots.

“A key objective was to retain the traditional visual cues we know consumers love and remember the brand for while looking to create a new generation of Ben Shaws fans who will also love the brand for years to come.

“It’s been a great brand story to execute through design.”

A DESIGN and branding agency based in Huddersfield has unveiled a new look for a text communications tool used widely in universities and colleges.

The system, called txttools, allows SMS text messages to be securely sent and received from a desktop computer to large groups or single mobile phone.

The system wis now used by more than 45% of UK universities and colleges – for example, allowing lecturers to reach their students should a lecture be cancelled or a lecture room be changed. It can also be used to send course information and updates.

As well as the education sector, txttools is used by local authorities, the police, healthcare organisations and businesses.

Design agency The Engine Room, based a t H u d d e r s f i e l d ’s Media Centre, was engaged to ensure that the website and marketing materials fully reflected txttools’ capabilities – and help take it to the next level.

Following investment from shareholders and the venture capitalist Viking Fund, texttools is on target to hit £1.8m turnover this year – compared with £135,000 in 2004.

The company, which was launched withe one employee in 2001 now has 27.

Darren Evans, creative director at The Engine Room, said: “The new txttools identity captures the essence of the business – functional and u s e r- f r i e n d l y w i t h ‘simplicity’ being central to setting them apart from their competition.

“The concept uses down-to-ear th language and communicates what the product does perfectly. Many of txttools’ competitors rely heavily on a technological look, blinding the customers with science.

“With txttools, the technology is no lesser in quality – in fact i’'s better – but there’s a very strong human side to the business.”

KIRKLEES BUSINESS

TAX TALK Colin Barratt

A LOAN fund designed to provide companies with finance through the credit crunch has invested £2.7m in Yorkshire businesses.

The £5m Transition Loan Fund was launched in February by regional development agency Yorkshire Forward to help viable regional businesses keep trading through the recession by providing general loan finance to those unable to secure it through the banks.

So far, the fund has helped 74 companies and safeguarded more than 1,000 jobs in the region.

Companies supported by the fund include Leeds based digital media specialists, Bloom Media UK, which received £60,000 investment to help progress their strong order book.

Dinnington-based Labfacility, a leading manufacturer of temperature sensors for industry, received £100,000 investment to complement a funding injection from the company’s directors, which has provided working capital for the company and enabled it to reduce its overdraft requirements.

Simon Hill, director of business for Yorkshire Forward, said: “While the banks remain the first point of access for credit, the Transition Loan Fund is there to support strong regional businesses keep trading through the recession.”

M Revenue & Customs has H announced details of an initiative under which individuals with unpaid

n WINNING BLEND: Mike Webb (centre), of Eaton Smith presents the award to Donna Brady (third right), Peter Hadwin (second right) and David Cooper (right), of Coopers Coffee watched by Bob Styring of Business Link, and Anne Gerard, of the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce A COMPANY brewing up big business is the latest winner of a monthly award.

Bradley-based Coopers Coffee was named winner of the Eaton Smith Business of the Month Award in recognition of its progress since being formed 20 years ago

by David and Jacqui Cooper.

From its origins in a small flat in Leeds, the company now has 17 team members supplying coffee beans and coffee making equipment across the UK. It also provides training to some of the top coffee shops and coffee brewers nationwide.

Said Mr Cooper: “This award is really good timing for the hardworking team at

Business is tough, where can I go for support?

At Business Link we understand that the difficult economic climate means we’re living in uncertain times. That’s why, whether you’re struggling with financial concerns, trying to cope with slow sales, dealing with staffing issues or maybe thinking of starting up on your own, you can get FREE advice and even a FREE business health check at Business Link.

Coopers. As a premium quality company, we had to work very hard in the last 12 months to retain our national commitment to service and quality in challenging times for our many clients.”

The award is run by Huddersfield-based law firm Eaton Smith in association with the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce and Business Link Yorkshire. It is open to all companies in Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield.

For more details go to www.eatonsmith.co.uk or contact Ian Greenwood at Eaton Smith on 01484 821389

Treble tops

A COMPANY providing inflatable structures for a wide range of uses has celebrated a hat-trick of contract wins.

Aireshelta plc, led by Huddersfield based managing director Kevin Bradley, achieved the success after months of “prospecting” for new business.

In the first, Aireshelta supplied inflatable shelters to cover excavation work by members of Oxford Archaeology, who were excavating an Australian and British First World War burial site at Pheasant Wood, Fromelles, France.

A strategy of promoting its products to the motorsports industry paid off when Aireshelta was asked by the Motorsport Industry Association to provide shelters for use at the association’s annual summer reception at the House of Lords in Westminster.

The event was hosted by MIA president Lord Astor of Hever.

The event enabled MIA leaders to meet politicians and loby for more government support for the industry. About 4,500 UK companies are involved in the UK motorsport and performance engineering industry, which has annual sales of £6bn, including £3.6bn in exports.

Aireshelta’s third success was an order from overseas – with several large shelters being supplied for about two years to help construct a storage depot at a European port.

tax liabilities linked to offshore accounts or assets will be able to settle their tax liabilities in return for a favourable fixed penalty rate.

Under the New Disclosure Opportunity, people who have unreported income or gains arising from overseas land or property, savings accounts and investments and business interests prior to April 6, 2008, and who want to bring their tax affairs up to date are being offered the opportunity to do so in return for a penalty of 10% of the total unpaid tax. Interest charges will also apply to tax paid late.

It will be necessary to notify HMRC of an intention to make a disclosure under NDO and the notification window will run from September 1 for those making notification in paper form (October 1 for online notifications) until November 30, 2009.

Unless there are exceptional circumstances, HM Revenue & Customs are unlikely to accept notifications after this date and the favourable penalty rate will then not apply.

Once notification has been given, HMRC will allocate a unique Disclosure Reference Number and then a disclosure and payment of unpaid taxes, interest and penalties can be made. The deadline for making a paper disclosure is January 31, 2010, and March 12, 2010 for those opting to make a disclosure online.

Those who decide not to make any form of disclosure and who the Revenue subsequently find to have undeclared tax liabilities are likely to incur a higher penalty of at least 30% rising to 100%. They also face the risk of criminal prosecution.

Under the previous Offshore Disclosure Facility (ODF) back in 2007, it was possible to disclose to HMRC details of any unpaid domestic tax liabilities and also obtain a reduced penalty similar to that under NDO. However, HMRC has indicated that wholly domestic disclosures will not be covered the NDO. Also, for those to whom HMRC wrote to back in 2007 offering a 10% penalty but who did not take that opportunity, their penalty under this initiative will be 20%.

No penalty will be charged where disclosed unpaid tax liabilities are £1,000 or less.

Whilst HMRC has said there is no guarantee that they will not prosecute anyone who makes disclosure under the NDO, they have indicated that it is extremely unlikely that anyone making a full and accurate disclosure would be subject to prosecution unless the circumstances are very exceptional (e.g. serious crime is involved).

According to HMRC Permanent Secretary for Tax the NDO “will be the last opportunity of its kind” and it would be beneficial to take advantage of the opportunity rather than risk the prospect of higher penalties or possible prosecution.

Colin Barratt is tax partner at Wheawill and Sudworth, chartered accountants, Huddersfield

KIRKLEES

Yorkshire’s Legal People.

Sponsors of the Huddersfield Examiner Business Awards 2009

www.chadwicklawrence.co.uk Huddersfield | Halifax | Leeds: Morley | Leeds: Pudsey | Wakefield

Hard-working firms urged to compete for top award KIRKLEES BUSINESS

By HENRYK ZIENTEK Business Reporter

henryk.zientek@examiner.co.uk

WHEN the going gets tough, the tough get going.

Nowhere is this more true than in the business world – where Huddersfield companies are being tested to the extreme by current economic conditions, but many of them are riding out the recession – thanks to a combination of enterprise, skill, innovation and business flair.

The 2009 Examiner Business Awards aim to recognise the resilience and determination of Huddersfield’s finest firms.

The Examiner has been joined once again by event sponsor Chadwick Lawrence in the search to recognise and reward those outstanding businesses and individuals forming the engine room of the town’s economy.

The competition will culminate with a glittering awards night at the Galpharm Stadium when leading figures from the local business community will join category finalists, sponsors and their guests in the celebrations.

Entries are now invited for the competition.

Organisers are seeking nominations for a host of categories, which will recognise businesses of all types and sizes and reward excellence in a wide range of achievements. The closing date for entries is Friday, September 11, 2009.

The categories are: New Business of the Year, SME of the Year, Business of the Year, Community Award, International Business/Trader of the Year, Regeneration Award, Employer of the Year, Creative Enterprise Award, Green Award, Young Business Person of the Year and Business Person of the Year.

A panel of judges will pick the category winners, who will be receive trophies and certificates at the spectacular awards night on Thursday, November 12, at the Galpharm Stadium.

BBC Look North presenter Harry Gration will again host the gala event.

The judging panel will include Jeremy Garside, managing partner of law firm Chadwick Lawrence, who encouraged businesses to enter the 2009 awards.

Mr Garside said: “The awards have proved that the Kirklees area is thriving, which is why we are determined to continue to promote and support business success in the area.

“It is important to recognise the achievements of local businesses and their proprietors. For that reason Chadwick Lawrence is proud to be supporting the awards once again in 2009.”

Roy Wright, editor of the Examiner, said: “During these times of economic uncertainty there's more reason than ever to celebrate the success of our local businesses.

“The fourth annual Huddersfield Business Awards, in association with Chadwick Lawrence, provide an opportunity to recognise the achievements of firms and individuals making a major contribution to their organisations and the town – often in the face of difficult trading conditions.

“I hope you will help to reinforce Huddersfield's reputation for enterprise by taking part in this year's awards.

The judges will draw up a shortlist of three entries for each category, with the exception of Business Person of the Year where only one winner will be chosen.

Shortlisted entries will be featured in the Examiner and the winners will be announced at the not-to-be-missed awards night.

The Examiner Business Awards are open to all companies with a business address in the Examiner's circulation area. A map of the circulation

n WELL DONE: David and Luisa Scacchetti, founders of Huddersfield-based Mamas and Papas receive the Examiner Business of The Year Award from Jeremy Garside (right) of Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors area is on the entry form.

To enter, simply choose the category or categories most suitable for your business achievements, complete and entry form and return it with a supporting statement about your specific achievement to the Events Department, PO Box 48, Old Hall Street, Liverpool, L69 3EB or email your entry form to businessawards@examiner.co.uk.

You can download an entry form from www.examinerbusinessawards.co.uk or call 01484 437 702 or email businessawards@examiner.co.uk to request a copy.

Our panel of judges will review all entries against the specific category criteria as well as turnover, growth, profitability, job creation, future potential, entrepreneurship and other factors outlined in your supporting statement.

Remember, a statistically static or even a declining business may be a success in the context of difficult market conditions over the period, so there is every reason to enter.

The judges will create a shortlist in each category which will be published in the Examiner and on line at the end of September. The deadline for entries is Friday, September 11, 2009.

Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony and dinner on Thursday, November 12 2009 at the Galpharm Stadium Huddersfield.

Over 300 guests including finalists, judges and business leaders will attend the event to celebrate the achievements of businesses in our region.

Tickets will be limited. To book, call the events team on 01484 437 702.

Choose your category and enter today New Business of the Year If your business began trading after January 1 2008 why not enter this award and receive recognition for your hard work and determination? You may have brought a fantastic new product to market, found a niche area to focus on or overcome all odds to achieve success. Tell us about your business, your market place, your performance and your future plans to win the recognition you deserve.

NHS Kirklees Community Award Does your business have schemes, initiatives or policies which have a positive impact on your local community? Whether you provide employment opportunities for young or disadvantaged people, show unrivalled support for local charities or even contribute to community schemes, make sure you receive the recognition you deserve for you commitment to your community and enter this award.

Revell Ward LLP Small and Medium-sized Enterprise of the Year Whatever your trade, if you employ up to 50 employees and can demonstrate achievements in your marketplace with evidence of an excellent business strategy, good financial performance and your potential for the future, enter this award and highlight your achievements.

Kirklees Council Green Award Has your business applied environmental policies in the workplace? Have your products or services made a positive contribution to the environment? This award will highlight the very best examples of environmental actions by local businesses.

Business Link Yorkshire Business of the Year If you are the best business in Huddersfield, enter this award! Employing a workforce of more than 50 the business of the year will be able to demonstrate all round business excellence, financial performance, business strategy and future plans.

HSBC Commercial Banking International Business/Trader of the Year Has your business generated a substantial and sustained increase in activity outside the region? The judges will look for evidence of the barriers that you have overcome and the degree to which national and international sales have created jobs and benefited our region’s economy.

Regeneration Award Have you been involved in the renovation or redevelopment of a business, dilapidated property or area?

Has your organisation brought fresh employment into a district or introduced innovative solutions to overcome a long standing regeneration need? The winning organisation will be one that has made an excellent contribution towards regeneration in our region.

PROHMS Ltd Employer of the Year Are you the best boss? Is your boss the best? We are looking for an employer who can demonstrate excellence in its approach to workforce development. Entrants will be asked to demonstrate why workforce development and training is important to the organisation, how training needs and skills requirements are assessed and addresses, and the direct benefit gained by both individuals and the organisation.

Creative Enterprise Award This category rewards business and individuals that have excelled at creative enterprise.

This can encompass a wide range of businesses from graphic design, marketing, print, fashion and innovation. Can you show

evidence of innovative use of creativity and new technology? Have you incorporated or implemented e-commerce opportunities throughout your business with a demonstrable impact on the commercial return of the business?

Fantastic Media Young Business Person of the Year Are you or one of your employees aged 40 or below able to demonstrate outstanding achievements in your field? Our young business person of the year will display excellent career progression, leadership and management skills that drive success for their business.

Business Person of the Year Do you, or does someone you know, stand out from the crowd and inspire others? Do you/they stand out as an individual who has grown the reputation of the region and the company, showing the entrepreneurial spirit that typifies the region’s resilience and resurgence? Judges will consider overall business performance, how this person has been instrumental in the success of the business, has shown outstanding achievement and who is commended within the business community.

Sponsor keen to back the best of local businesses KIRKLEES

“We offer a complete service cial litigation (including reguL AW f i r m C h a d w i c k Lawrence is backing to businesses, drawing on the latory law) and employment wide range of expertise that we law. business.

Chadwick Lawrence LLP Solicitors is sponsoring the Huddersfield Business Awards for the fourth year running – having supported the inaugural awards in 2006 and the 2007 and 2008 competitions.

Known as “Yorkshire’s Legal People” Chadwick Lawrence is one of West Yorkshire’s leading law firms and believes in both the importance of celebrating the success of local businesses and recognising the efforts of their people.

Chadwick Lawrence’s head office is at its Huddersfield Railway Street premises.

The company has 95 lawyers and almost 200 staff at its offices in the region.

The firm stages regular awareness seminars and training sessions both on its own account and with other business groups in the town to spotlight important issues impacting on the regional business community.

Jeremy Garside, managing partner of Chadwick Lawrence, said: “Our commercial team works predominantly for small to medium sized businesses with up to a £40m turnover.

continually build, equipping us to handle almost all aspects of business law.

“The other division of our business is personal law and again we employ specialist lawyers to deal with the many facets of the law for individuals and families.”

The growth and expansion of the Chadwick Lawrence commercial services team included the opening of a new office in Wakefield last year.

Chadwick Lawrence is a keen supporter of the Huddersfield Town Centre Partnership and takes a keen interest in promoting efforts to foster economic growth.

The launch of a specialist legal team to assist businesses with commercial property advice and risk management has proved invaluable in helping the owners of commercial property and landlords – or indeed tenants – of the same.

The current economic climate has brought new questions and challenges for property-based businesses .

The commercial services team is made up of three departments: corporate and commercial property, commer-

Accessing the right advice at the right time is crucial for business owners who are faced with making important decisions about the future of their business or indeed in handling any other problems, challenges or dilemmas they may encounter.

Business clients who work with Chadwick Lawrence are secure in the knowledge that the commercial services team's legal ability and commercial awareness is always on hand to give help and advice.

Specialist solicitors are happy to deal with issues such as employment law, commercial contracts, commercial property work, employee compliance and training, disputes, licensing and planning, health and safety and much more.

Chadwick Lawrence covers the whole of Kirklees, Calderdale and Wakefield.

As well as its Huddersfield base, Chadwick Lawrence has offices in Dewsbury, Halifax, Morley, Pudsey and Wakefield.

For further information, visit www.chadwicklawrence.co.uk

n IN THE FRAME: Jeremy Garside (left), of Chadwick Lawrence, presents framed certificates to David and Luisa Scacchetti, founders of Huddersfield-based Mamas and Papas

Company proud to receive its accolade for excellence NURSERY products firm Mamas & Papas is used to winning awards.

But the founders of Colnebridge-based company took special delight in being voted Business Personalities of the Year in the 2008 Examiner Business Awards.

Now as the 2009 competition kicks-off, Mamas & Papas founders David and Luisa

Scacchetti have spoken about their pride in being recognised in their home town.

Speaking in the impressive showroom at the Mams & Papas headquarters, Luisa said: “It is always nice to be appreciated.

“We like to think we have helped put Huddersfield on the map with our global reach, so we were very proud to win this recognition.

“Mamas & Papas was born in Huddersfield when we opened our first shop in Westbourne Road, Marsh, and we have remained loyal to the town and the area.

“We are committed to Huddersfield.”

David stressed how Mamas & Papas reflected its loyalty to the town in its workforce.

“We have some loyal employees, who have been with us since we started in 1981,” he said.

“Most of the management have been with us since the early 1990s.

“We have lots of couples among the workforce as well as parents, whose children now work for the company.”

Mamas & Papas is fast becoming a worldwide retailing force. Distribution deals have enabled the firm to open stores in the Middle East and Russia.

Last month, the retailer signed an agreement to take its designer products into the Japanese market.

In the UK, the company, which has 1,200 employees, is opening a new store in Liverpool in September followed by others in Bridgend and Aberdeen.

It is also set to launch its new season products – including bedding, maternity wear, pushchairs and prams – at the major nursery industry fair at Cologne in September.

The Colnebridge site includes the company’s a headquarters, showroom, warehouse and product testing facilities.

KIRKLEES BUSINESS

EMPLOYERS' BRIEFING Neil Wilson

HE Government is considering enactT ing temporary legislation in response to the current swine flu pandemic, which

would see an increase in the allowed period of self-certification for workers with suspected swine flu from seven days to 14 days.

The rationale behind this decision is to help prevent the spread of infection and reduce the burden on health professionals by keeping affected individuals in their homes for a safe period of time.

The proposals would probably last for a period of 6 months; this would be extendable should the outbreak not be contained by this time. A final decision is expected in just a couple of week’s time.

While on the subject of swine flu, the department of health has recently given clarification on the advice given to pregnant women during the swine flu outbreak.

It is surprising to many that the advice given does not appear to be more cautious than for individuals who are not pregnant.

It is suggested that women should carry on attending for work, providing they take the usual precautions such as ensuring they wash their hands regularly, avoid coming into contact with sufferers of swine flu and contacting their GP immediately if they suspect they have contracted the illness.

While it is correct to state that women who are pregnant do carry a slightly higher risk of getting swine flu, the Government has stopped short of advising more restrictive measures for the moment.

It is advised that women can carry on using public transport, and do not need to stay indoors.

However, the Department of Health will be reviewing its advice in the autumn, when it is expected the pandemic will be at its most severe.

It is estimated that up to 40% of the UK population will contract swine flu over the next couple of months; now the Transport Union RMT has now raised concerns about how the transport industry could be crippled as a result.

Working in close contact with the public on a daily basis means that transport workers may be at greater risk of infection, along with those who commute on a daily basis.

The problems for businesses are therefore twofold. Firstly, with a high proportion of workers in most companies using public transport to commute, there could well be a problem getting to and from work with the potential for reduced services.

Secondly, many of the individuals using public transport themselves could contract swine flu by being in confined spaces such as trains and buses.

Employers may wish to highlight the slightly heightened risks of using public transport to their employees, and ask that they ensure they take the necessary precautions to avoid contracting the illness.

Neil Wilson is an Employment Lawyer at Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors

n TOUR GUIDE: Meryl Birch (right), managing director of Joshua Ellis, explains to visitors the various stages involved in the production of the company’s new luxurious range of cashmere fabrics and soft furnishings

Textile company unveils products A KIRKLEES textile firm has launched a new range of luxury cashmere fabrics and soft furnishings.

Joshua Ellis and Co Ltd welcomed VIPs to an exclusive preview at its premises in Grange Valley Road, Batley.

The day included a guided tour of the manufacturing plant – where visitors got a detailed insight into the production of cashmere fabrics to create cushions, curtains, throws, scarves and accessories.

Managing Director Meryl Birch said: “The soft furnishing collection is a fairly recent addition to our range of products and we felt that it was appropriate to invite interior designers and retailers to see exactly how we produce our luxurious cashmere right here in West Yorkshire.”

She said: “We are well known for supplying our luxurious fabric to many of the world’s leading fashion designers.

“The new soft furnishing range features exclus-

ive, beautifully-designed cushions which come in a range of colours and patterns. We are also able to offer scarves, rugs, throws and fabric by the piece, metre, roll or bolt.”

Joshua Ellis, the company behind the new collection, has been manufacturing a wide range of the finest cashmere fabrics since the 18th century.

The firm is very proud of its historic role in manufacturing this luxurious product from fibre obtained from the cashmere goat, which can be found in various regions of China and Outer Mongolia.

“It is in fact the severe climatic conditions of the animal’s natural habitat which ultimately determine the fineness of the fibres.”

Said Ms Birch: “Over the next 12 months, we are looking to build up a select team of exclusive stockists throughout the UK who would like to offer our range of luxurious cashmere products to their own customers and clients.”

AN accountancy firm has won an award for the quality of its website.

Chartered certified accountants Torevell Dent Ltd, which has offices at Prospect Street in Huddersfield, won a Website Excellence Award for 2009 from the Association of Online Accountants in recognition of its “valuable, professional and high quality service”.

Website manager David Jackson (left) said he was proud to receive the award on behalf of the firm. He said the success reflects the “continual improvements and expansion of services” offered by the Website.

Bradford-based Torevell Dent Ltd has also opened a new office at Wellington Place in Leeds to complement its existing sites in Huddersfield, Bradford and Halifax.

ALMOST half of young people in Huddersfield believe that apprenticeships are the best way to prepare for the workplace.

A survey by the National Apprenticeship Service showed that 48% rated apprenticeships above traditional academic qualifications.

A second survey among employers showed that 71% cited willingness to learn as the leading attribute they would like to see in their workers – with 57% saying that employing an apprentice would give the business the best opportunity to mould its workforce.

Among young people polled, 68% felt that holding A-levels or a degree would not necessarily guarantee them a job while 67% felt that completing an apprenticeship could lead to a an exciting and fulfilling career.

But only 43% said they had been encouraged by teachers to consider an apprenticeship as a chosen career path with fewer than a third saying they had been encouraged by careers advisers. Only 15% of parents considered apprenticeships a positive career option.

Nick Wilson, regional director of the National Apprenticeship Service in Yorkshire, said apprenticeships offered a way into 80 different career paths – while an online service provided supprot and information for young people and employers on taking up apprenticeships.

He said: “It is reassuring that our research reveals that both employers in the region are fully behind apprenticeships and that young people don’t see traditional academic qualifications as their only route into a dream job.

“We hope that more teachers, careers advisers and parents can play their part in encouraging more young people to pursue apprenticeships.”

KIRKLEES

PROPERTY FOCUS

PROPERTY agent Colliers CR has made two senior appointments to its Leeds-based planning team.

Graham Connell has been appointed as a director and head of planning while Rachael Martin becomes an associate director.

They join Wendy Sockett and will cover Yorkshire and the north-east.

Ms Martin has more than 30 years experience as a planner – most recently as national director of Sanderson Weatherall’s planning team.

Her 10 years experience in the property industry includes being associate director in the planning team at Sanderson Weatherall.

In their previous roles, Mr Connell and Ms Martin provided a wide range of advice to clients in both the private and public sectors.

That included property portfolio assessment, appraisals to assist with site disposals, preparation, submission and negotiation of planning applications and appeals.

Construction firms target contracts CONSTRUCTION businesses in the Yorkshire are being given access to new contract opportunities through the recently launched Target programme.

Target is a new contract support initiative funded by Yorkshire Forward and led by VEN Management to help regional construction businesses win more contract opportunities during the economic downturn.

Target will help groups of businesses collaborate to win significant contracts which they would be unable to win on their own.

The National Business Survey report recently highlighted that construction was thesecond worst-hit sector in the region with 22,600 jobs estimated to be lost between 2007 and 2010.

Target will address this by helping n HELPING HAND: Gwyn Evans, regional businesses in the sector win of VEN Management more contracts – by sourcing and promoting viable opportunities and VEN Management already has a working with business groups to working agreement with the YORidentify any potential barriers. build initiative on the importance of Target will also be holding “Meet local supply chains. the Buyer” events throughout the This procurement framework will region and will signpost businesses to offer significant contract opportunitthe appropriate support to ensure ies for firms on capital work commisthat they are fit to compete for future sioned by local authorities and other public sector bodies in the region. contract opportunities.

THE Huddersfield office of chartered surveyors Eddisons has announced two completed lettings at the Junction 25 Business Park in Mirfield on behalf of its client MB Services.

Scaffolding contractor MSL Services has taken a newly constructed unit extending to 4,793sq ft off an asking rent of £20,370 per annum.

Ande JHP Engines has taken 2,953sq ft off an asking rent of £12,475 a year.

Philip Deakin, of Eddisons, said: ‘These deals are further proof of the popularity of the Junction 25 Business Park which has on-site loading and parking along with excellent communication links throughout the West Yorkshire conurbation.”

Only two units – measuring 5,272sq ft and 5,349sq ft – now remain at the business park which are being marketed in conjunction with joint agents Michael Steel and Co off asking rents from £4.75 per sq ft.

Target also aims to help construction companies to boost their skills and will work with partners across the region such as Construction Skills and the Federation of Master Builders.

The project will signpost relevant courses and training to help businesses become more supplier ready.

Gwyn Evans, of VEN Management, said: “Construction accounts for the largest spends for local authorities in the Yorkshire and the Humber region.

“About £1.2bn a year is spent on construction services, representing 30% of the regional local authorities' external expenditure.

“Target is aiming to help construction companies in the region win more business from the public sector organisations represented by YORbuild – as well as highlighting other public and private sector contracts available from inside and outside the region.”

Companies wishing to find out more or register their interest in Target should visit www.constructiontarget.com or email target@venmanagement.com

commercial properties

14 st georges square, huddersfield hd1 1jf telephone 01484 558231/530361 - jonathan.wilson@bramleys1.co.uk

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Single storey unit

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3 phase electricity

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Gas supply

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Electric central heating

Refurbished Building High Quality Offices ● 79.15 sqmt [852 sqft] ● Town Centre Location

OLD LEEDS ROAD, HUDDERSFIELD

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Former Chapel

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2nd Floor Offices

Office

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Car parking

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67.07m² -

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Outskirts of

275.17m² (722ft² 2,962ft²)

Portal frame

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Flexible Terms

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Outskirts of

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Canal Frontage

Huddersfield

Milnsbridge

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61.78m² (665ft²)

Town Centre

£100 P/W

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Courtyard Setting Cat II Lighting

1st floor office

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Centrally heated

premises

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31.68m² (341ft²)

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Fully inclusive

Huddersfield town

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centre

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Self Contained

ROYD STREET, HUDDERSFIELD

FROM £150 PCM

FROM £3,500 P/A

High Quality

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7 ST GEORGES SQUARE, HUDDERSFIELD

£495 PCM

door

56.94m²/613ft²

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Roller shutter

University

63 WAKEFIELD ROAD, ASPLEY

£7,000 P/A

Ground and First

£63 PER WEEK

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2ND FLOOR, CLOTH HALL CHAMBERS, HUDDERSFIELD

£11,000 P/A

SCAR LANE, HUDDERSFIELD

£21,000 P/A

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QUEEN STREET, HUDDERSFIELD

RENT ON APPLICATION

ASHGROVE ROAD, HUDDERSFIELD

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offices

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Listed Building

Opposite Railway Station ● Close to bus station and multistorey car park ● Multi Occupied Building ●

Individual office suites ● Fully inclusive rents ● 12 month agreement ●

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Double glazed windows

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KIRKLEES BUSINESS

PROPERTY FOCUS

n INTERIOR: Impressions (above and below) of part of the interior of the McDonald's Restaurant which is due to open this winter at Gallagher Retail Park, Wakefield Road, Waterloo

Restaurant plan to create 50 jobs

MORE than 50 jobs are expected to be created with the opening of a new McDonald’s drive-thru restaurent in Huddersfield.

The new “designer” restaurant is set to open this winter at Gallagher Retail Park at Wakefield Road, Waterloo – a development which already includes an Aldi supermarket and M&S Simply Food outlet.

Planning permission for a 24-hour drive-thru restaurant was granted by Kirklees Council in May – but the identity of the operator was not stated at that time. Now McDonald’s is applying for permission to put its name and famous Golden Arches logo on the building.

Company spokesman Steve Heywood said the 3,358sq ft development at Waterloo was part of a £60m programme by McDonald’s to open a string of restaurants over the next few years.

The Waterloo outlet would boast the latest interior design – in apple greens, whites and natural fibre hues as well as a variety of seating types and heights.

Mr Heywood said about 50 jobs will be created initially – with more likely as the business grows. The vacancies will include part-time and full-time posts as “crew members”, hospitality and dining area hosts and trainee management.

“This is great news for us and for the local area,” said Mr Heywood. “And we’red delighted to that our continued growth puts us in the position to offer new employment opportunities with access to our award-winning training

programme and a range of benefits.”

Huddersfield already has a McDonald’s restaurant at Kirkgate in the town centre and a drive-thru at Leeds Road.

McDonald’s embarked on its expansion plan after reporting “strong” UK growth earlier this year as cash-strapped customers continued to be drawn to low-cost eating out.

In a business update last April,

McDonald’s said it continued to increase market share in the downturn – with higher quarterly sales and an increase in customer numbers.

McDonald’s said the enthusiasm of UK consumers for its menus, affordable prices and convenience, helped lift sales from its Europe business by 3.2% in the first quarter of 2009.

A CLEANING company has become the latest occupier to move into a new 40,000sq ft business park in Birstall.

Floorbrite Cleaning Contractors, which employs 50 full-time staff and 700 cleaning staff to service more than 450 daily cleaning contracts, has taken space at Eshton Gregory’s Springwell 27 Business Park, close to junction 27 of the M62.

Alex Wyers, of Floorbrite, said: “We set up our operation in the north-west more than 35 years ago and have long since recognised an opportunity to expand across the North of England.

“Securing key contracts in Leeds and surrounding areas has provided a perfect opportunity to look at a second operational base in Yorkshire.”

He said: “Springwell 27 Business Park is perfect for our requirements with superb access to the M62, the M1 and key Yorkshire cities and towns.

We have no doubt that these new premises will contribute to the success of our Yorkshire operation.”

Springwell 27 was completed earlier this year and has already sold 70% of the warehousing space available in units ranging in size from 2,196sq ft to 3,918sq ft.

Floorbrite will soon be joined by a variety of local and national firms, including Turbo Engineering, Aceda Developments, North Fire and Banana Moon.

There are now only three units available for occupation on a freehold or leasehold basis.

The success of those units follows the establishment of a major regional distribution hub for independent online grocery retailer Ocado, which distributes Waitrose own-label products.

Ocado occupies a 10,500 sq ft building on three acres. It expects to create up to 300 jobs over the next few years.

Eshton Gregory estimates that a further 100 jobs are likely to be created elsewhere within the scheme.

Richard Tovey, development director of Gregory Property Developments, said: “The Springwell 27 Business Park has been a great success for Kirklees.

“We have worked very hard alongside the council to attract major inward investors such as Ocado, which has given the local economy a significant boost.

“Floorbrite’s occupation marks another important step in the development of the Business Park and provides further evidence of its ability to create employment opportunities in the area.”

Site developer Eshton Gregory, a joint venture between the Leeds-based Gregory Group and Eshton Ltd, has also secured detailed planning permission for a further 30,000sq ft on two acres at Birstall Business Park. New design and build opportunities are available with units ranging from 10,000sq ft to 30,000sq ft.

The joint agents appointed to market the scheme are Carter Jonas and Dove Haigh Phillips.

Shulmans Solicitors are acting for Eshton Gregory on lettings and sales. Projex Building Solutions is the project manager on the site. GMI Construction was the appointed contractor on the works completed to date.

KIRKLEES

014 8 4 4 3 2 0 4 3 Road A62 Leeds

Unit 1 41,500 sq ft

01484 432043 On behalf of Keyland Developments

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68 New North Road

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Bradley Junction, Station Road, Off Leeds Road, Huddersfield Available September 2009 Modern clearspan industrial buildings with service yards Straight-in and dock leveller loading doors and 27 feet eaves

TO LET (may sell) Suite sizes from 2,174 to 10,354 sq ft

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KIRKLEES BUSINESS

REAL ESTATE Amandeep Kooner

N the UK, increasing financial presItosure – heightened by recent changes empty rates relief – means that the

balance of power may be shifting from landlords to tenants in commercial leasing.

Tenants with the benefit of upcoming break rights may be in a strong position to renegotiate with their landlords, but both landlords and tenants need to be aware of the pitfalls.

In last month’s editorial, we considered the issues that should be borne by a tenant wishing to exercise a break option in the lease.

This briefing outlines the issues which landlords should consider when faced with a tenant exercising the break option.

If the landlord cannot frustrate the operation of the break right, apart from the commercial considerations of losing rental income and having to re-let the property, the landlord should consider a number of issues.

If a new lease is granted (which will occur even if a break option is served and revoked), any pre-existing guarantor (under an authorised guarantee agreement or otherwise) will probably be released and the landlord may therefore need to consider the covenant strength of the tenant.

If the previous lease was an “old” (that is, granted before January 1, 1996) lease, the landlord will lose the benefit of privity of contract/privity of estate with previous tenants.

If the previous lease was contracted out of the security of tenure provisions of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 so that the tenant has no right to remain in occupation after the expiry of the lease the “new” lease will not be contracted out unless the landlord observes the relevant statutory process – ie notice by landlord and statutory declaration by tenant.

The landlord needs to consider whether any terms in the lease need to be clarified.

For example, if a repairing obligation is qualified so as to be in ‘no worse state’ than at the date of the lease, creating a new lease would have the effect of re-basing that standard to the date of the new lease unless the drafting is reconsidered.

The tenant may argue that the landlord and the tenant ought to treat the break notice as never having been served.

For the reasons above, a landlord ought to treat such a suggestion with extreme caution.

A landlord would be better advised to insist that a new lease is prepared and, if necessary, registered at the Land Registry. l The information in this article is for general purposes and guidance only and does not purport to constitute legal or professional advice.

Amandeep Kooner is a real estate partner at Austin Kemp Solicitors

PROPERTY

FOCUS

Firm tables plans to make way for Asda AN engineerig firm has tabled plans to move its operations onto a single site – to make way for a new £40m supermarket.

Leeds-based Asda wants to build a 49,000sq ft store on land currently occupied by Thomas Broadbent and Sons Ltd and bounded by Huddersfield ring road, Chapel Hill , Milford Street and Queen Street South.

Broadbent proposes to make way by transferring all operations to its site on the opposite side of Queen Street South – between Huddersfield University and the Examiner building.

That site will be redeveloped to accommodate its factory, offices and stores along with its 140-strong workforce.

A report submitted to Kirklees Council planning officers on behalf of the firm said the existing buildings on the site sought by Asda were too large for the engineering firm’s current needs and the layout and size was no longer suited to modern industrial machinery and equipment.

At the same time, the Queen Street South site had been underused for many years with some of the buildings standing half-empty, it said.

The report said: “The alterations and extensions proposed will enable Broadbents to use the building more efficiently.”

Plans for the site on Queen Street South include extending the main building to provide space for manufacturing, a workshop and two-storey offices. A former foundry will be extended to provide storage as well as toilets and showers for employees.

A number of outbuildings will be demolished to provide turning space for trucks, car parking and a cycle shed.

A HIGH yielding tenanted Indian restaurant in Meltham was among the star performers at a recent property auction.

The Meltham Balti Restaurant on Huddersfield Road – which produces annual rental income of £14,150 – sold for £138,000 off a guide price of £115,000-plus, giving the buyer a tasty return of 10.25%.

Among other notable deals in the auction held by Eddisons, a tenanted commercial proper ty a t Hipperholme, generating annual income of £20,000 a year, sold for £227,000 off a guide price of £150,000-plus, giving a return of 8.8%.

On the same parade, two single storey retail properties producing a combined annual rent of £24,025 sold for £247,000 off a guide price of £190,000-plus giving a return of 9.7%.

In total, 101 lots were offered of which 82 attracted buyers, including 15 lots sold prior. The total proceeds exceeded £8,37m.

Tony Webber, of Eddisons, said: ‘This was the best auction for over 18 months, which suggests we may be seeing early signs of economic recovery following the

n SITE VISIT: Thomas Broadbent and Sons Ltd plans to move all its operations to the firm’s Queen Street South site

The company said the move would ensure security of employment and continuity for the business as well as creating temporary jobs during construction work.

Asda has already submitted plans for the supermarket, which it hopes to open in 2011.

The scheme will include a two-tier car park providing 560 spaces, a cafe, a pharmacy and the full range of Asda products, including George clothing.

Broadbent, founded in 1864, is a leading supplier of centrifuges to the food processing, plastics and chemical industries.

During its early years, the family-owned company built a wide range of products, including steam engines, cars and large overhead travelling cranes.

The firm focuses on designing and making centrifuges for a range of industries, including chemicals and food processing. It also has a laundry division designing, supplying and installing large-scale laundry equipment for industrial and commercial clients.

Broadbent customers have included major names such as Shell, BP, ICI, DuPont, Tate & Lyle, Conoco, Pfizer and GlaxoSmithkline.

n SOLD: Tony Webber, of Eddisons, said the auction had proved highly successful

WORK has been completed on a £10m redevelopment and extension programme at Toronto Square in Leeds.

The major revamp of the former Cloth Hall Court by Highcross has created a seven-storey 90,000sq ft office development in the centre of the city’s legal and financial district.

Chris Mills, commercial development director at Highcross, said: “Toronto Square is ideal for companies wanting a prestigious headquarters office building in the centre of the city – with the added bonus of a top rating for its environmental performance.

“Highcross has made a significant commitment to Leeds over recent years with our two complementary flagship schemes at Toronto Square and Broad Gate.”

Agents for Toronto Square are CB Richard Ellis and Knight Frank .

recent gloom and doom.

‘Many of our seasoned investors were in evidence as were a number of new faces who were encouraged by attractive pricing and the slight easing of funding restrictions which allowed them to bid with real confidence.

“The lots with reputable tenants on long-term leases – which give investors a far healthier return than traditional investment vehicles – were particularly popular.”

KIRKLEES

PROPERTY FOCUS

Engineering firm plans new works AN engineering firm is seeking permission to build new premises – as its current site faces being swallowed up by a proposed Tesco store.

Ardor Engineering Ltd has tabled plans for a new light engineering works at Bradley to replace its current premises at Pine Street, behind Huddersfield Sports Centre.

The company wants to build a new engineering workshop on vacant land at the junction of Leeds Road and Station Road, Bradley Junction.

The scheme also involves providing space for vehicle turning, parking and cycle sheds to encourage employees to bike to work.

Ardor Engineering, led by director and owner Michael Kilbride, employs 12 people and machines components for the valve and pump industries.

CONFIDENCE is returning to the housing market, a local chartered surveyor said.

But Chris Jowett, who runs Jowett Chartered Surveyors (experthomesales), said the improvement was slow.

“Although the number of properties sold is still down on the same period last year, we can definitely see an improvement,” he said.

“Prices are stabilising and on the whole it’s looking much more positive.”

Mr Jowett, who covers Kirklees and Calderdale from offices at Market Street in Huddersfield, said he had noticed an increase in activity – not least with a £1.1m property on which he has just secured an offer and could have sold three times over.

The increase in activity was due to factors including low interest rates, a rise in the number of home loans for housebuyers and a slowdown in the decline of house prices.

In addition, national housebuild-

HOUSEBUILDER Persimmon Homes has launched a management training scheme aimed at school leavers.

The UK’s third largest housebuilder has introduced the initiative to develop talent in the group as part of Persimmon’s wider programme to address skills in the industry – Homing In on Opportunity.

School leavers will be able to join the four year FIRST training scheme from September.

Two structured programmes are available, working alongside experienced teams in Persimmon technical depar tments or on site, involved directly in a wide variety of different projects.

The firm was formed in 1974 by busines partners Richard Lister and Trevor Wimpenny.

In 1991, Ardor Engineering became a limited company and was the subject of a management buyout in November, 2004.

In documents lodged with Kirklees planning department, Mr Kilbride said Ardor Engineering Ltd had always been based in Huddersfield and had been at Pine Street for the past eight years.

He said the company had invested heavily in training our highly skilled workforce and purchased state-of-the-art machinery.”

Mr Kilbride said the company was being forced to move due to the proposed Tesco development, but added: “After consulting our employees and

Chris Jowett

ers were resuming work – demonstrating their growing confidence in the market.

“There has been a build-up of

Trainees will attend college one day a week to undertake relevant further education and will each be assigned a mentor.

Ongoing and formal assessments will be provided by the mentors and appropriate senior managers and by the Construction Skills NVQ assessor and college tutors.

At present, 21 positions are available – eight on site and 13 in technical departments at Persimmon offices UK-wide.

Mike Farley, group chief executive, said: “While we are proud of our track record in developing opportunities for a broad cross section of trainees, we recognise the recent impact of the downturn.

our customers, we have no alternative but to stay in Huddersfield.

“Owning and designing a bespoke building is the way forward, not only to secure future employment for our existing employees, but to expand the business to maintain our competitive edge in the market place.”

Tesco plans to build a new store on the site of the sports centre and the Lonsbrough and Ibbotson flats.

Ardor’s premises would also disappear as part of the scheme.

As part of the plans, which have yet to get approval, the retail giant would demolish its current supermarket at Viaduct Street, replacing it with housing, offices, shops and a hotel, while a new sports centre would be built at Springwood.

latent demand in the last two years in the Kirklees and Calderdale areas,” said Mr Jowett.

“Many people want to move house, but they have been put off from taking the plunge due to the global credit crisis and the fear of not being able to make progress with their house sale because of the depressed conditions.

“However, house prices should bottom out within the next six-month period and the supply of properties coming onto the market should increase in the late summer/autumn period as sellers who have been wanting to move for several years decide to take the plunge as confidence slowly returns.

“Prudent purchasers are also returning to the market place as they see property to be a good investment for the future.

“However, realism in asking prices is still very important in order to achieve success.”

“Now that the market is stabilising, we are eager to rebuild by once again investing in young people for the future.

“We are keen advocates of on-the-job training and our FIRST programme is tailored to provide an all round experience in both Technical and Site environments.

“It is hoped that in time FIRST trainees’ introduction to the industry and Persimmon in particular will not only see them fully immersed in our business processes by the end of four years, but fully equipped to join over 29% of our staff who have been with the business more than 10 years.”

MICHELLE Huby has been appointed office manager at Huddersfield architecture and interior design practice Above and Beyond..

Ms Huby (pictured) joins the company, based at the Media Centre, Northumberland Street, with an extensive background in business support.

She worked for brewery giant Carlsberg for more than 15 years in a number of support and administrative roles. In her new job, she will deal with enquiries, accounts and looking after clients as the first point of contact with the company.

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AGENTS CONSULTANT ADVISOR •

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New Mill Road, Brockholes 41/2 miles from town centre, easy access to motorway network Unit to let in attractive business park Unit 3.......985 square feet Unit 25 ....1170 square feet Contact: Philip Deakin Eddisons 01484 533151

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KIRKLEES BUSINESS

PROPERTY FOCUS

Data centre plan unveiled PLANS are being drawn up for a major development at Lindley Moor.

Kirklees Council will be asked to approve a £200m-plus scheme to build one of the UK’s first data centre campuses on 46 acres of land at the junction of Lindley Moor Road and Crosland Road.

Backers say the 340,000sq ft development would create about 150 jobs directly – with about 500 employed during the construction phase – and would make Huddersfield a magnet for leading companies to base their computer operations.

An outline planning application will be submitted shortly following the completion of reports on related issues such as traffic, the environmental impact and a flood risk assessment.

Developers have also promised to set up a website to keep residents advised on the progress of the scheme and offer them the chance to comment on it.

The site has been earmarked for employment use in the Kirklees Unitary Development Plan for more than 10 years.

It was bought a little over a year ago by Stirling Scotfield, a joint venture set up by Leeds-based developer Scotfield Developments and Wetherby-based Stirling Investments, who engaged specialist property agent GVA Connect to help investigate the viability of plans for the data centre campus.

Stephen Holman, a director of Scotfield Developments, said the centre would provide a secure location for organisations such as banks and internet-based businesses to house their computer servers.

He said organisations were increasingly looking to base their computer servers away from their existing offices for security reasons. GVA Connect, which specialises in data centres, had identified Lindley Moor as a site which would meet all the criteria.

He added: “This development will be the first of its kind in the north of England and one of the first in the UK.” Mr Holman said the site bring a minimum of 150 jobs directly with at least 500 jobs involved in constructing and fitting out the units.

Mr Holman envisaged about 12 units varying in size from 15,000sq ft to 50,000sq ft, but said that would depend on demand.

Potentially, the units could be attractive to banks, internet service providers and other companies with substantial online operations.

He said details of the scheme were yet to be finalised, but stressed the development would be “relatively low density” with “fairly robust” landscaping. The units would also be built to “cut” into the existing contours of the lande and should not be visible from nearby housing.

And he insisted: “In terms of the proposed use, it

n FIELD WORK: part of the proposed development site at Lindley Moor. Below – Stephen Holman, of Scotfield Developments

is probably the most ‘friendly’ of all the uses that could go on this site. We are not proposing general industrial use.

“The traffic impact is fairly low. We will be working with Kirklees Council and highways to develop Green Travel Plans and minimise the number of vehicles. People employed on the site will be working shifts rather than 9-to-5– so it won’t add unduly to traffic with everyone arriving and leaving at the same time.”

Alistair Flatman, a planning consultant working on the scheme, said the creation of a data centre campus would be a unique facility in the north of England.

industrial

Units 1, 2 & 3 Hoyer Industrial Park Leeds Road, Huddersfield TO LET 569 m² - 2,215 m² (6,130 sq ft - 23,852 sq ft) Modern warehouse/manufacturing units Prominent main road location off the A62 Leeds Road Generous secure yard and car parking

office

Riverside Works Colne Road, Huddersfield

Albert Street Lockwood, Huddersfield

NEW INSTRUCTION

NEW INSTRUCTION

TO LET 389.53 m² (4,193 sq ft) Modern industrial unit Self contained secure storage yard Close to Huddersfield ring road

TO LET 275.05 m² (2,960 sq ft) Single storey warehouse/ workshop premises Prominent frontage to popular Albert Street Potential for trade counter use

Spa Field Industrial Estate New Street, Slaithwaite, Huddersfield TO LET 45.99 m² (495 sq ft ) Modern starter units Popular industrial estate location Available on flexible terms

office Old Commerce House Fitzwilliam Street, Huddersfield

NEW INSTRUCTION

FOR SALE / TO LET 374.03 m² (4,029 sq ft) Highly prominent office property On site car parking provision Suitable for a variety of uses (subject to planning)

eddisons.com

Norwich Union House Market Street, Huddersfield TO LET 82.87 m² - 929.30 m² (829 sq ft - 10,002 sq ft) High quality office accommodation Passenger lift access Prominent town centre location

Contact Philip Deakin or David Wright 01484 533151

Offices in: Birmingham, Bradford, Bristol, Glasgow, Huddersfield, Leeds, London, Manchester

Eddisons

KIRKLEES

TOWN TALK Sean Jarvis

ARLIER this month, along with 21 E other brave souls, I completed our Pedal for Pounds bike ride from Hud-

dersfield to Southend.

Together, we raised a large amount of money for the Keep It Up campaign, from which funds are split between our main partner charity, the Yorkshire Air Ambulance, and our very own youth aAcademy.

I would like to thank everyone who donated and took part in the bike ride on behalf of the Club.

The ride was particularly tough and at times it felt like it would never end, but I am delighted to say that everyone who started the ride with us on August 5 completed the ride.

However, we are not resting on our laurels when it comes to raising money for the Keep It Up campaign.

Our collective minds are already whirring to come up with the next fundraising idea and I would urge everyone to back it as much as possible when it comes to fruition.

I hope that by now many of you will have seen our fantastic new corporate brochure for the 2009/10 season.

As we are now in an era of renewed optimism and excitement we are offering new opportunities both on and off the field to watch the game in style with friends or entertain corporate guests this term.

Our match sponsorship package is now hosted in the boardroom, we host a new business club on a match day designed to help local businesses network and membership to our new White Rose Club is ever-growing.

As part of the club’s strategy of expansion, we have recently opened a discount store at the Riverside Shopping Centre in Holmfirth.

This represents the biggest growth in our retail sector since the opening of the store in Huddersfield town centre back in 2004 and I would advise all fans to go and check out the range of sale stock and discounted merchandise.

We also have our brand new customer relationship management system up and running at the club and I would urge all of our fans to register their details using our new portal, which can be found at www.huddersfieldportal.com.

By doing so, it will allow us to communicate with you more effectively – for example, there is no point in us sending information to you regarding the Young Terriers if you are 65!

The system represents a major investment for the club and will genuinely revolutionise our ability to communicate relevant information to our supporters, but it thrives on information and the more we can get, the more use the system will be.

As always, If you would like to get involved with Huddersfield Town then please call us on 01484 484140.

Sean Jarvis is director of business development at Huddersfield Town

n WATER FEATURE: Pictured with an Absorbeez absorbent bags are (from left) managing director Phil Tenwick, operations director Erica Dobson and business development executive Maggie Netherwood

Orders flooding in for Elland firm

A COMPANY in Elland is bagging extra business by selling flood protection equipment.

Jetleys Packaging Ltd, based at Ainleys Industrial Estate, has added to its armoury by supplying the Absorbeez absorbent bags, which are used to help hold back flood water in place of more cumbersome and messy sandbags.

The products are quickly finding favour with a wide variety of clients – not just for those sites in flood plains, but also to deal with flash flooding and in sectors where spillages can occur.

Group managing director Philip Tenwick said: “It is a relatively new product serving as a superior alternative to the sandbag.

It is lightweight, portable and it can be deployed quickly by anyone to provide ‘stop-gap’ protection against flooding. ” On contact with water, the bags swell and soak up the liquid to form a barrier. Once it has absorbed the water, it can be moved “dry” – unless the tradi-

tional sandbag.

The bags, which are biodegradeable, come in a variety of sizes to tackle spills, protect entrances and double doorways – channelling water away from goods and property – and can absorb between eight and 33 litres depending on their size.

Mr Tenwick said Absorbeez could be used to protect domestic properties or larger premises, such as warehouses, factories, shops and offices.

Jetleys has sold the products to customers including Huddersfield’s Galpharm Stadium, Bradford-based supermarket chain Morrisons, energy giant npower and Calderdale Council.

The bags were used by the emergency services to deal with spillages at road accidents and by organisations in sectors as varied as hotels and catering, construction, shipping andhaulage.

Mr Tenwick said flooding could be costly to businesses – ruining stock and halting production. “Absorbeez buys time to move equipment and stock out of

the way by providing a barrier and channelling the water away.”

Absorbeez is the latest addition to Jetleys’ range of products and services.

The group, which was founded in Huddersfield and moved to its present location from Lockwood 10 years ago, has 45 permanent employees, but regularly employs up to 100 temporary workers as needed.

As well as its Absorbeez division, the group provides storage, stock management, order collation, fulfilment and distribution services from its 70,000sq ft of warehousing under its Jetleys Business Solutions arm; supplies till rolls, ATM rolls and other paper products under its Fortoak brand; and a printing and design service through its Hieroglyphics operation.

Clients range from HBOS and Barclays to The Restaurant Group, Autoglass and Enterprise Rent-a-Car.

ONLY a fifth of employers in Kirklees provide “on-boarding” progammes to help new recruits settle into their surroundings – despite 74% of workers saying it would be a good thing.

On-boarding – the process by which employers induct new employees into the culture of the company – has become increasingly important to the current generation of recruits.

A survey by Enterprise Rent-A-Car examined the prevalence of workplace on-boarding programmes among employees across the UK. Among workers polled, 42% said on-boarding helped them identify with their new employer and colleagues while 58% said it helped them feel at ease with their new surroundings.

Some 58% said it enabled them to get up to speed with the company culture and values 46% and 27% said it reinforced their decision to join the company.

Donna Miller, European human resources director at Enterprise Rent-A-Car, said: “On-boarding programmes are an essential tool for employers, particularly in our economic climate because they can have a measurable impact on retention, employee engagement and future hiring success.

“Building strong links with new recruits right from the beginning creates a sense of security and comfort and enables them to get better connected to their colleagues.

“It also helps convey the culture of the organisation and gives them a better understanding of why things are the way they are.”

To be successful, on-boarding programmes should begin once the job-offer is accepted.

However, three out of 10 employees had no level of contact with their employer between accepting a job offer and starting while 69% of new starter programmes ended after only two weeks into the job.

Said Ms Miller: “An on-boarding process helps new recruits learn, adapt and become ingrained within the company’s values and cultures.”

WE BRING BUSINESS FACE TO FACE WITH BUSINESS

A PUBLIC relations company founded by Spen Valley woman Suzanne Johns is set to support even more local businesses after becoming an approved supplier for Bradford Enterprise Agency.

Approach PR has joined 26 approved suppliers on the Kickstart Professional Services Programme – spotlighting its role as one of a new generation of providers enlisted to support Bradford’s start up and developing businesses.

The programme was established in March, 2007, by Bradford Council as part of the Local Enterprise Growth Initiative to help businesses grow by providing access to high quality services from approved professionals.

The Kickstart programme has helped more than 850 new businesses begin trading across the district and has provided intensive support to more than 2,000 growing or established firms.

Now in its third year, the programme aims to help a record number of businesses to grow through the expertise and services provided by its biggest ever bank of local suppliers.

John Sims, project manager of Bradford Enterprise Agency’s professional services team, said: “We have purposefully expanded our marketing provision to incorporate specialist PR consultancies to enable Bradford’s businesses to access the highest level of communications support to help them grow and develop.

“Only a select few companies meet the strict standards and criteria specified to become an approved supplier for our professional services programme and we

anticipate many local businesses will benefit from the enhanced level of available expertise.”

The five-strong Approach team works alongside Brighouse-based CP Group and manages media relations for the Yorkshire Biz Awards – which boasts Huddersfield’s own Viewpoint Digital on the shortlist.

Modern working practices teamed with traditional values provide commercial clients with comprehensive legal support.

Call 01484 519 999

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13 Railway Street, Hudderfield, HD1 1JS

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n BIG PICTURE: John Simms, of Bradford Local Enterprise Growth Initiative, with (from left) Approach PR's Verity Hudson, Claire Moulds, Suzanne Johns, Charlotte Booth and Becky Armstrong

Garden centre wins prize crop

Yorkshire’s Legal People Huddersfield

It also manages national and international brands such as Kingston Communications and Délifrance UK Ltd. Said Suzanne: “It is a real privilege to be credited among those who have been selected to support this entrepreneurial spirit and contribute to the business survival rate of the city.”

ARCHITECT Jonathan Wimpenny has been appointed to a major post in the USA. Jo n a t h a n , w h o hails from Huddersfield and still has family in the area, has been elected president of Royal Institute of British Architects’ USA board of trustees.

Jo n a t h a n , w h o lives and practices in New York, takes up a three-year tenure as presiding chairman o f R I B A’ s U S c h ap t e r s i n N e w York, Los Angeles, Boston, Chicago, Phoenix, San Francisco and Boston representing British architects practising in the States.

He is a member of the family which has run building firm J Wimpenny & Co for more than 100 years.

His father, Harry Wimpenny, a former director of the firm, now lives at Kirklands, Slaithwaite.

Wakefield

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Halifax

Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority

A GARDEN centre has won a crop of top awards.

Cafe 1842 at Armitage’s Pennine Garden Centre in Shelley, was judged best cafe in the north-east following independent audits conducted by the Garden Centre Association.

Pennine Garden Centre also scooped a special prize for the high standard of products available in its houseplant department.

And Armitage’s garden

centre at Birchencliffe took the regional award for best point-of-sale signs promoting offers in the store.

Across both garden centres, Armitage’s received merits in several categories, including ones for garden centre staff, children’s play area, outdoor living, aquatics and pet care, h o u s e p l a n t s a n d h a r dy plants.

The awards were presented at a regional ceremony held at the Briar Court Hotel,

Birchencliffe.

“We are delighted to receive these awards,” said William Armitage, director of Armitage’s Garden Centres.

“Membership to the Garden Centres Association ensure we meet stringent criteria and so competition is always tough.

“We are always working to improve our centres and offer customers the best choice, service and deals.”

Published by Trinity Mirror Huddersfield Ltd, PO Box A26, Queen Street South, Huddersfield HD1 2TD. Printed by Trinity Mirror Printing Oldham Ltd, Hollinwood Avenue, Oldham. OL9 8EP. Registered as a newspaper at the Post Office.