CELEBRATING LANCASHIRE’S AND HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN’S INVOLVEMENT WITH THE COMMONWEALTH by The Samuel James Group

CELEBRATING LANCASHIRE’S AND

HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN’S INVOLVEMENT WITH THE COMMONWEALTH 02 03 05 06 16 17 18 22 24 26 28 29 30 34 40 45 51 55 57 62 64 70

CONTENTS ________________________________________________________________________________ HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN ___________________________________________________ LORD LIEUTENANT OF LANCASHIRE __________________________________________ THE COMMONWEALTH _____________________________________________________ COMMONWEALTH DAY ____________________________________________________ ARMISTICE DAY ____________________________________________________________ DUCHY OF LANCASTER ____________________________________________________ COMMONWEALTH GAMES _________________________________________________ A SPECIAL YEAR FOR THE COMMONWEALTH ________________________________ LANCASHIRE PARTICIPANTS ________________________________________________ TOWARDS A COMMON FUTURE_____________________________________________ A MORE PROSPEROUS FUTURE ______________________________________________ LANCASHIRE’S WORLD CLASS ORGANISATIONS AND SECTORS _______________ CULTURAL EVENTS, HERITAGE AND ATTRACTIONS ____________________________ LANCASHIRE’S INVESTMENT HOTSPOTS ______________________________________ A MORE SECURE FUTURE ___________________________________________________ A MORE SUSTAINABLE FUTURE ______________________________________________ LANCASHIRE DAY __________________________________________________________ A FAIRER FUTURE ___________________________________________________________ LANCASHIRE’S ROYAL WARRANT HOLDERS _________________________________ QUEEN’S AWARDS FOR ENTERPRISE _________________________________________ EXPORTING TO THE COMMONWEALTH ______________________________________

Andy Editorial: Andy Mann 01772 364152 / 07951 731722 andy@thesamuel jamesgroup.com

The Samuel James Group Directors, Sam Whitear and Andy Mann, would like to thank everyone involved with the creation of this publication. It has been a pleasure to be involved and we hope you enjoy reading it. PR & Marketing: Phil Ghayour 01772 364152 / 07825 884003 phil@thesamuel jamesgroup.com

Design: Stuart Box 01772 364150 / 07939 512152 stuart.box@thesamuel jamesgroup.com

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This publication is produced by The Samuel James Group Ltd, Unit 6/7 Eastway Business Village, Fulwood, Preston PR2 9WT. Reproduction of the contents of this newspaper in any form is not permitted, without the permission of the publisher. Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for errors and/or omissions in advertisements, information, photographs or illustrations. The opinions and advice in this publication do not necessarily express the views of the company.

The Samuel James Group

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Her Majesty The Queen is the Head of the Commonwealth and attends the biennial Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. She has devoted much of her reign to reinforcing the links which bind this community of nations. In a radio broadcast recorded on her 21st birthday, Her Majesty made a commitment to the citizens of the Commonwealth, saying: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I declare before you all that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Since then, she has undertaken more than 200 visits to Commonwealth countries and keeps in touch with developments through regular contact with the Commonwealth Secretary General and the Secretariat. 3

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THE COMMONWEALTH T he Commonwealth, formerly the British Commonwealth, is an intergovernmental organisation of 53 member states, most of which are former territories of the British Empire. In the past two decades, countries which have joined include Mozambique, Cameroon, Rwanda and most recently, The Gambia. The modern Commonwealth was formed on 26 April 1949, when the leaders of Australia, Canada, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom adopted the London Declaration. The declaration defined the Commonwealth as a “free association” of independent member countries.

Overview The Commonwealth spans the globe and includes both advanced economies and developing countries. Its members, citizens and businesses benefit from shared language, laws and values. Encompassing countries from Africa (19 countries), Asia (7), the Caribbean and Americas (13), Europe (3), and the Pacific (11), it is home to a third of the world’s populations, with nearly 60% comprising youths (under 29). With only nine countries expected to account for more than half of the world’s population increase to 2050, five are in the Commonwealth. It is also home to half of the top 20 emerging global cities. Furthermore, 65% of Small Island Developing States are in the Commonwealth

(24 from 37), giving them a unique and equal voice on the global stage. The Commonwealth contributes 17% global GDP and the combined gross domestic product of Commonwealth countries is estimated at US$10.4 trillion in 2017 and predicted to reach US$13 trillion in 2020. To date, The Commonwealth has contributed up to 44% of UN peacekeepers and provided observers at over 140 elections in 40 countries since 1980.

has 31 republics and five monarchies, each with a different monarch. Her Majesty The Queen is the ceremonial head of state and reigning constitutional monarch of only 16 members of the Commonwealth, known as Commonwealth realms. Historically, Her Majesty The Queen has ceased to be the Head of State or have any formal position in several nations of the Commonwealth, including India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Singapore.

Composition Many of the Commonwealth nations are small states, including the island nations of; the Solomon Islands, Malta and the smallest, Nauru, with a population of about 10,000. Whilst some of the larger Commonwealth states are Canada, Australia and India, which is home to over 1.2 billion people. All members have an equal say, regardless of their size or economic stature. This ensures that even the smallest countries have a voice in shaping the Commonwealth. Member states have no legal obligation to one another, rather, they are united by language, history and culture. The shared values are illustrated in the 16 core beliefs of the Commonwealth, which include democracy, human rights and gender equality.

Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) The main decisionmaking forum for The Commonwealth is the biennial Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), where Heads of Government for each of the Commonwealth nations meet for several days to discuss matters of mutual interest. The 2018 CHOGM will be held in London from 16 – 20 April. At the 1997 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, it was agreed that in order to become a member of the Commonwealth, an applicant country should, as a rule, have had a constitutional association with an existing Commonwealth member and that it should comply with Commonwealth values, principles and priorities as set out in the Harare Declaration; and that it should accept Commonwealth norms and conventions. The Harare Commonwealth Declaration was issued by Heads of

Head of the Commonwealth Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II is the Head of the Commonwealth, though this is a symbolic role, which facilitates no power. The Commonwealth

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Government in Harare, Zimbabwe, on 20 October 1991. It outlined the key political principles that should be adhered to, by both current and future members of the Commonwealth. Commonwealth Secretariat A key element of the Commonwealth is the Commonwealth Secretariat. The Commonwealth Secretariat, established in 1965, supports Commonwealth member countries to achieve development, democracy and peace. It acts as a voice for small and vulnerable states and a champion for young people. As well as helping to strengthen governance, build

inclusive institutions and promote justice and human rights. The Secretariatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work helps to grow economies and boost trade, empower young people, and address threats such as climate change, debt and inequality. Other roles include providing training, technical assistance and support to decisionmakers, helping them draw up legislation and deliver policies, The Commonwealth Secretariat deploys experts and observers who offer impartial advice and solutions to national problems, as well as providing systems, software and research for managing resources.

Secretariat role at the Commonwealth summits Part of its role is organising the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting and at these Commonwealth summits, the Secretariat brings together Government leaders whose decisions will have an enduring impact on all citizens, by uniting the member countries in this way, it helps to amplify their voices and achieve collective action on global challenges. The Commonwealth Secretariat focuses on three key areas; governance and peace, trade, oceans and natural resources, and economic, social and sustainable development. 7

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FLAGS OF THE ANTIGUA & BARBUDA

BRUNEI

GRENADA

MALAWI

AUSTRALIA

CAMEROON

GUYANA

MALAYSIA

BAHAMAS

CANADA

INDIA

MALTA

BANGLADESH

CYPRUS

JAMAICA

MAURITIUS

BARBADOS

DOMINICA

KENYA

MOZAMBIQUE

BELIZE

FIJI

KIRIBATI

NAMIBIA

BOTSWANA

GHANA

LESOTHO

NAURU

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COMMONWEALTH NATIONS NEW ZEALAND

ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES

NIGERIA

SAMOA

SRI LANKA

SWAZILAND

UGANDA

UNITED KINGDOM

PAKISTAN

SEYCHELLES

TANZANIA

VANUATU

PAPUA NEW GUINEA

SIERRA LEONE

THE GAMBIA

RWANDA

SINGAPORE

TONGA

ST KITTS AND NEVIS

SOLOMON ISLANDS

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

SAINT LUCIA

SOUTH AFRICA

TUVALU

ZAMBIA

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THE GAMBIA REJOINS COMMONWEALTH

n 8 February 2018, The Gambia rejoined the Commonwealth, almost five years after leaving the organisation. The West African nation’s return was marked by a flag-raising ceremony at Marlborough House, the London headquarters of the Commonwealth Secretariat. The Gambia’s ambassador to the UK now becomes its High Commissioner, signifying Commonwealth membership. Both the new High Commissioner and Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland, attended the flagraising ceremony. Speaking about his country’s return, High Commissioner Francis Blain said: “I am thrilled to represent my country as it formally rejoins the Commonwealth after an absence of several years – and to become High Commissioner rather than Ambassador. The Gambia looks forward to being able

both to contribute to and benefit from the collective wisdom of the Commonwealth family of countries, and to playing an active role in supporting the work of the Commonwealth Secretariat and the many other organisations and initiatives that flourish as expressions of Commonwealth connection.” “The Government and people of The Gambia will also draw on all that the Commonwealth collectively has to offer, assisting in practical ways to address a wide range of pressing issues – including protecting the environment and tackling climate change, and the empowerment of women and young people.” The decision to begin the process of applying for readmission was made in February 2017 by President Adama Barrow, who came to power following elections in December 2016. In December 2017, the Parliament of The Gambia unanimously

affirmed the country’s desire to rejoin the Commonwealth, fulfilling one of the final steps in the organisation’s membership process. The country’s application was unanimously supported by the previous 52 member states and The Gambia was invited to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in April in London. Secretary-General Scotland said: “When The Gambia left in 2013, the Heads of Government expressed their regret in its leaving the Commonwealth family. We’ve looked forward to The Gambia’s return and were delighted when, after his election victory in December 2016, President Barrow pledged to return. The Gambia’s application to rejoin has been unanimously accepted by all 52-member states, who welcome back their brothers and sisters to again play their full part in the Commonwealth family.”

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COMMONWEALTH HEADS OF GOVERNMENT MEETING - LONDON

he Commonwealth is a diverse community of 53 nations that work together to promote prosperity, democracy and peace. In April 2018, the UK will host the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) when leaders from all the member countries are expected to gather in London and Windsor. They will come together to reaffirm its common values, address the shared global challenges they face and agree how to work to create a better future for all their citizens, particularly young people. The scale of the Summit The Summit comprises five days, with 2,500 forum delegates, over 1,000 media representatives …and hundreds of volunteers to make the event happen! The Summit will take place from Monday 16 to

Saturday 21 April. It will open with three days of parallel forums on Business, Women, People and Youth, followed by the formal Heads of Government Meeting with accompanying spouses’ programme, and Foreign Ministers’ Programme. Themed meetings The Commonwealth is an organisation with deep roots and profound strengths. The Commonwealth’s uniqueness lies in its human networks. These people-to-people links define and nurture the organisation. With the theme of ‘Towards a Common Future’, delegates will work to address common challenges, and focus on delivering:

• A more prosperous future: boosting intraCommonwealth trade and investment and maximising the opportunities offered by the ‘Commonwealth Advantage’. • A more secure future: increasing cooperation across security challenges including global terrorism, organised crime and cyber attacks. • A more sustainable future: building the resilience of small and vulnerable states to deal with the effects of climate change and other global crises. • A fairer future: promoting democracy, fundamental freedoms and good governance across the Commonwealth. The Future The aim is to develop The Commonwealth, with a strong and vibrant future, built on deep partnerships, that embrace its unique and diverse membership. 11

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PROUD TO BE ONE OF LANCASHIRE’S

COMMONWEALTH FIRST

EXPORT CHAMPIONS

niversal Smart Cards, based near Accrington, is a market leader in the supply and deployment of smart cards and related smart products. Having shipped over 300 million products worldwide, this global exporter offers clients a vast array of smart cards, card readers, card printers and accessories, together with RFID wristbands, key fobs, labels and tags. With a core team of industry specialists, harbouring a combined 100 years of smart card experience, the company is continuing its strategic expansion into overseas markets, through an enhanced export capability, as a natural way to grow further. With the rapid growth of the Internet of Things, RFID and Wearables, which are forecasted to be growing exponentially, the firm envisages a raft of opportunities to promote its innovative products and capability across these emerging technology markets. In recognition of its market leading export strategy, Universal Smart Cards, has been chosen as a

CommonwealthFirst Export Champion. CommonwealthFirst is a major new national initiative to help SME’s trade and invest across the Commonwealth. The programme has been developed by a partnership between the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council and Royal Mail, with the support from i-genius as implementation partner. “CommonwealthFirst is an enormous step forward in helping us to achieve our mission of helping Governments and the private sector to understand and utilise the Commonwealth network.” – Lord Marland, Chairman of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council “CommonwealthFirst will complement the UK Government’s efforts in

helping UK companies to think internationally. This initiative will enable us to deliver on the potential of the Commonwealth network for UK businesses – something that we have overlooked for too long.” – Lord Maude, Former UK Minister of State for Trade and Investment Over the last three years, 100 leading UK SMEs have been selected to become Commonwealth Export Champions and will be provided with unique access and support in their quest to win new business in the fast-growing Commonwealth markets. Their success will be showcased as an encouragement to the wider UK business community. Universal Smart Cards was delighted to be selected to be one of the first Lancashire based CommonwealthFirst Export Champions. The company was chosen to be part of the initiative as a result of its export ambitions, impact and commitment to innovation. The 100 companies selected for the programme have also been invited to attend the Commonwealth Business Forum, which coincides with

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the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, therefore acting as a platform for some of the world’s key thinkers and influencers to network. The Commonwealth Business Forum is an integral part of the CHOGM and brings together businesses critical to trade and investment leadership with Government to debate the issues facing their countries in 2018 and beyond. Organised by The Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council and the Government of the United Kingdom, in partnership with the City of London, this top level business gathering is only accessed by special invitation and will be held across three iconic London venues. This will be the eleventh Commonwealth

Business Forum and the first held in the UK in 20 years. Paul May, Commercial Director, Universal Smart Cards, said: ‘’Universal Smart Cards is proud of its work, exporting around the world. It is particularly pleasing that our innovative and celebrated products and services are utilised by some of the biggest organisations, both in the UK and around the world. Our client base includes Formula 1 teams, Premier League football clubs, blue chip retailers and Transport for London. ‘’Our inclusion in CommonwealthFirst is testimony to the hard work and commitment of our staff across our three UK sites, CommonwealthFirst will allow us to grow our portfolio of exports to nations across the Commonwealth with the

networking, training and mentoring opportunities provided. “As one of the few companies in Lancashire to gain access to such a prestigious forum, this is a fantastic opportunity and we certainly aim to make the most of it.” As a one-stop-shop for smart products, Universal Smart Cards provides advice and consultancy services to facilitate the implementation of smart cards for applications including corporate ID, IT login and physical access, cashless payments, print management, loyalty and membership, time and attendance asset tracking and smart ticketing for transport. Contact 01706 260342 or www.usmartcards.co.uk for details. 13

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adiham haulage and logistics specialists, Fagan & Whalley Ltd. has just celebrated its 90th anniversary, which coincidently virtually mirrors the life of Her Majesty The Queen and throughout this period, they have links to

many shared celebrations. Fagan & Whalley was established in 1927, the year following the birth of Her Majesty The Queen. Fastforward 90 years and the haulage giants celebrated nine decades of success, with the opening of a new 93,000

sq. ft depot in Burnley. Founded by Thomas Whalley & Samuel Fagan, the father-in-law and son-in-law team began with a horse and cart, delivering coal around the village of Hapton. The business quickly began to prosper and by

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A HISTORY OF SERVICE the time Queen Elizabeth II commenced her reign in 1952, Fagan & Whalley had several vehicles servicing the burgeoning Lancashire cotton industry. Two years after Her Majesty The Queen celebrated her Silver

Jubilee in 1977, Fagan & Whalley moved from their Hapton site to make way for the approaching M65, a motorway that is now an integral part of the haulage firm’s success. The move kick-started three decades of rapid growth.

When Her Majesty The Queen became the longest living British monarch, overtaking Queen Victoria in 2007, Fagan & Whalley opened a 30,000 sq. ft extension to their Padiham site. Furthermore, 2012 marked the Diamond Jubilee - 60 years of Her Majesty The Queen’s reign, when Her Majesty had a yearlong celebration across the Commonwealth, as well as touring Britain. The year also marked 85 years for Fagan & Whalley, who that year opened a new transport hub in Coventry, expanding the Fagan & Whalley network in order to satisfy its customers’ needs, quicker and more efficiently. A year after Her Majesty The Queen celebrated her 90th birthday, Fagan & Whalley celebrated theirs. Her Majesty The Queen celebrated with a special performance at Windsor Castle, Fagan & Whalley opened their doors for a family fun day, welcoming 900 people to their newly opened Depot. The company has established the foundations for the future with the newly opened 93,000 sq. ft Burnley Bridge Depot. Graham Fagan, Operations Director, Fagan and Whalley, said: “It is an immense privilege that our existence has coincided with the life of Her Majesty The Queen. “Like Her Majesty The Queen, our own 90th anniversary was a celebration for all of our devoted staff, suppliers and customers. Everybody enjoyed themselves and the feedback we have received on our fantastic new facilities and our future plans, as the business grows from strength to strength, made us very proud.” 15

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COMMONWEALTH DAY

12 MARCH 2018

he annual celebration of Commonwealth Day takes place on the second Monday in March. In 2018, it took place on 12 March, across the globe, including people in Commonwealth countries in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, the Pacific and Europe. Typical events used to celebrate the vast diversity, strong unity and uplifting values that define the Commonwealth included faith and civic gatherings, debates, school assemblies, flag raising ceremonies, street parties and fashion shows. In London, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II as Head of

the Commonwealth, attended a multicultural, multi-faith service at Westminster Abbey with performances from choirs, dancers and musicians. During the event, Her Majesty’s special Commonwealth Day message was delivered. There were also online statements from Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland, as well as leading global figures, about the importance of the family of nations, which links Governments, people and institutions of 53 countries. This year’s Commonwealth Day preceded the 2018 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, where

the leaders of 53 independent member countries meet to address key global challenges and agree how to work together for the welfare and common good of its 2.4 billion citizens. The two events were joined by the same theme ‘Towards a Common Future’. Building upon the 2017 theme of ‘A Peace-Building Commonwealth’, this year’s theme explores how the Commonwealth can address global challenges and work to create a better future for all citizens through sub-themes of sustainability, safety, prosperity and fairness.

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CENTENARY CELEBRATION

OF ARMISTICE DAY

ommemorated every year on 11 November, Armistice Day marks the armistice signed between the Allies during World War I and Germany. The signing took place at Compiègne, France for the ending of hostilities on the Western Front of World War I, which took effect at eleven o’clock in the morning on 11 November 1918. Hence 2018 is the 100th anniversary of the signing. In the United Kingdom, Armistice Day is nationally recognised with a two-minute silence on the Sunday nearest to 11 November. Many people including members of the public, past and present members of the armed forces, politicians and members of the Royal Family attend a ceremony at the Cenotaph in London, an event organised by the Royal British Legion. The Royal British Legion is a charity dedicated to perpetuating the memory of those who served in the First World War and veterans of all

subsequent wars, involving British and Commonwealth troops. Traditionally, in the weeks leading to Remembrance Sunday, poppies are worn by residents of the United Kingdom, inspired by the World War I poem ‘In Flanders Fields’ written by Canadian Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae. Poppies are sold by the Royal British Legion and help raise funds for the charity’s excellent work. Lancashire has a proud military heritage, closely connected to the Commonwealth. especially the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment, which has formal allegiances with military units in Australia, Canada, India, Malaysia, New Zealand, Pakistan and South Africa. The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment is an infantry regiment within the British Army and it recruits throughout the North West of England. The regiment’s formation

was announced on 16 December 2004 by Geoff Hoon and General Sir Mike Jackson as part of the restructuring of the British infantry. The regiment was formed through the merger of three battalions: • The King’s Own Royal Border Regiment • The King’s Regiment • The Queen’s Lancashire Regiment

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THE DUCHY OF LANCASTER

he Duchy of Lancaster is an ancient inheritance that began 750 years ago, when in 1265, Henry III gifted to his son, Edmund Crouchbank, lands which had been forfeited by the Earl of Leicester, Simon de Montfort. Later that same year, lands taken from Robert Ferrers, Earl of Derby were added to this holding. However, it was not until Edmund was given the ‘county, honor and castle of Lancaster’ in 1267 that it became known as the ‘Lancaster inheritance’. The title ‘Duke of Lancaster’ did not come into existence until it was conferred on Edmund’s grandson, Henry Grosmont, in 1351. At the same time, Lancaster was made a County Palatine for Henry’s lifetime. When Henry died, without leaving a male heir in 1361, the title and inheritance became part of his daughter Blanche’s dowry. Through her marriage, Blanche passed on

both to perhaps the bestknown Duke of Lancaster, her husband, John O’Gaunt. Over the next several years, John O’Gaunt added significantly to his wealth and possessions. On 28 February 1377, Edward III recreated the Palatinate for John’s lifetime. In 1390, this grant was extended to include John’s heirs. The Duke of Lancaster had now become one of the most important figures in the country. When John O’Gaunt died in 1399, the young King Richard II was fearful of the power that the Lancaster inheritance gave to his heir, Henry Bolingbroke. Richard therefore banished Henry from England and took the Duchy of Lancaster title, lands and properties for himself. Bolingbroke returned to England at the head of an army and overthrew the King, reclaiming his historic Lancaster inheritance. On his accession to

the throne as Henry IV, Bolingbroke passed a Royal Charter which decreed that the Duchy should be a distinct entity, held separate from all other Crown possessions and handed down through the Monarchy. So, it remains to this day. The Monarch is always the Duke of Lancaster – hence the historic Lancastrian toast ‘The Queen, Duke of Lancaster!’. The title is always that of ‘Duke’ for both Kings and Queens. We were delighted to be able to welcome the current Duke, Her Majesty The Queen, to Lancaster Castle in 2015, where she was ceremoniously handed the keys, by the current Constable of the Castle, Mrs Pam Barker. In celebration of Commonwealth Day this year, Mrs Barker will raise the Commonwealth flag over the famous John O’Gaunt gate, which is the main access to Lancaster Castle.

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LANCASTER CASTLE

ometimes known as John O’ Gaunt’s Castle, it is one of the most historically fascinating surviving buildings in the country. Its beginnings date back to Roman times when, from its commanding position on the hill overlooking the town of Lancaster and the River Lune, it stood as a bastion against the marauding forces of the ancient Picts and Scots tribes. Owned by The Duchy of Lancaster since the origins of the ancient inheritance in 1265, the Castle has witnessed scenes of significant historical, cultural and political impact throughout the centuries. These include incidents of religious persecution, the trials of the ‘Lancashire Witches’ and 200 executions for everything from murder to stealing cattle. Until 2011, Lancaster Castle was a fully functioning Category C Prison. It still houses one of the longest continuously serving Crown Courts in the UK and many overseas visitors make the pilgrimage here to visit the courtroom in which their ancestors were tried and either imprisoned or transported. It has in its time also served as a police training academy and a place of detention for German and Italian prisoners of war. Today, the Castle is a magnificent ‘living’ monument, offering a glimpse into England’s often dark past through tours and special events. Several of the buildings can be visited by the public as part of a guided tour and a seasonal programme of public events

takes place here, including historical re-enactments, vintage fairs, theatrical productions and music concerts. Since the Castle was returned to the Duchy at the end of 2011, an extensive programme of repair and conservation has been undertaken to ensure that the buildings are weatherproof and watertight. The Duchy has a duty to preserve the historical assets within its portfolio and is committed to making as many of the Castle’s buildings as safe as possible and accessible to members of the local community and visitors from further afield. The latest phase of this ongoing conservation project has been the careful removal of the former Visitors Centre in the lower courtyard. The removal of the building opens up the prison’s former kitchen courtyard and reveals more of the historic buildings which lie beyond, including the Male Felons Tower, Kings Evidence Tower and the former Laundry and Hospital blocks. The Duchy is creating a new purposebuilt visitors centre, shop, café/bistro and fully equipped conference centre in this area and plans to open the new facilities to the public in summer 2019. For those who would like to experience more of the Castle’s historic buildings for themselves, a digital tour is available on the ‘Castle today’ page of the Lancaster Castle website: www. lancastercastle.com. For more information on the Duchy of Lancaster please visit www. duchyoflancaster.co.uk. 19

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PROUD PRESTON COMES OF AGE

reston, a city best known for its guild traditions, historic football team and iconic bus station, is bursting with personality and character. Preston is coming of age this year, 16 years after receiving its city status as part of the Queen’s Golden Jubilee in 2002. This “Golden” city has a rich history, having secured

a Royal Charter in 1179, and is often referred to as “Proud Preston” by its residents. Known for its unique charm and northern friendly welcome, Preston boasts fine architecture, stunning city centre parkland, rich sporting heritage and bustling urban scene. A Royal Charter is a formal document issued by a monarch, granting a right

or power to an individual or a corporate body. They were, and are still, used to establish significant organisations such as cities or universities. Charters should be distinguished from warrants and letters of appointment, as they have perpetual effect. You could say Preston is the perfect sized city, with everything at your fingertips,

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from the stunning parkland on the doorstep of the eclectic shopping experience, to the ever-increasing list of places to eat and drink. Wander through Avenham and Miller parks to get a glimpse of the 500 hectares of green spaces, wildlife habitats, play areas and allotments in and around the city centre. Explore Preston’s diverse offer as

Lancashire’s key shopping destination, appreciating awe-inspiring architecture of iconic buildings such as the Victorian splendor of the Miller Arcade. In addition to the familiar high-street names and brands, Preston offers a variety of boutique and independent shops, as well as fresh Lancashire produce in the new Preston Markets’

Market Hall. Preston Markets offer something a little different, sitting beneath a stunningly restored Victorian canopy, incorporating the well-loved outdoor market and innovative box market. Preston offers an abundance of choice when it comes to leisure. Lose yourself in an array of art, culture and history in the iconic Harris – housing the city centre’s museum, art gallery and library. Step inside and while away a few blissful hours browsing through the fascinating displays of art, local history and changing exhibitions. Or discover Preston’s unique histories, out in the fresh air, with a self-guided city centre walking tour; you could also join one of the official guidedtours of the rejuvenated Winckley Square area. The newest development at Preston Guild Hall, ‘Level’, brings additional indoor activities to the city centre, including bowling, crazy golf and an obstacle course. Another perfect place to spend time with the family and friends. You can also enjoy the diverse programme of Summer events on the Flag Market, which culminates with Lancashire Encounter lighting up the city in September. This spectacular event features an illuminated parade, giant projections and a packed programme of workshops. And there’s no need to head off home at the end of day, with the city’s restaurants and bars, theatre, dance, comedy and live music all a great way to spend your evening – for more information, please visit www. PrestonAtNight.co.uk 21

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4TH-15TH

APRIL 2018

irst held in 1930, under the title of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The British Empire Games, it was later renamed the Commonwealth Games, and is now a four-yearly multisport event, involving athletes from the 53 Commonwealth nations. Over 5,000 athletes compete, across 15 different sports and 250 different events. The first, second and third placed athletes in each event receive Gold, Silver and Bronze medals respectively. Although the Commonwealth consists of 53 countries, over 70 teams participate in the games as several individual territories compete under their own flags. For example, the four Home Nations of the United Kingdom; England, Scotland, Wales and North Ireland compete separately. Nine nations have hosted the Commonwealth Games, with this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Games taking place on The Gold Coast, Australia. It will be the fifthtime Australia has hosted the event, more than any other nation. Australia, Canada, England, New Zealand, Scotland and Wales are the only countries to attend every Commonwealth Games, with Australia winning the most medals, with 2218 medals. Her Majesty The Queen and various other Royalty have attended, opened and closed several ceremonies. Two Lancashire companies, Kukri Sports and Milano Pro Sport are proud kit suppliers to some of the teams competing in the Games.

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COMMONWEALTH

GAMES

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A SPECIAL YEAR FOR

THE COMMONWEALTH

018 represents a special year for the Commonwealth, with a number of critical events coinciding, providing an opportunity to celebrate Her Majesty’s connection with the Commonwealth. • The Commonwealth Summit Also known as the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). It takes place every two years. This year in April, it will be hosted by the UK, when leaders from all the member countries are expected to gather in London and Windsor. • Commonwealth Games The four-year cycle of the Commonwealth Games sees Queensland play host in 2018. • One hundred year commemoration of Armistice Day 2018 also marks the one hundred year commemoration of Armistice

Day and the end of the Great War, where it is important to remember that one in twelve Allied fatalities were from the pre-partition Indian Army, along with fallen soldiers from across the Commonwealth. • Ongoing military links The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment has formal allegiances with many units in The Commonwealth, including Australia, Canada, India, Malaysia, New Zealand, Pakistan and South Africa. • Lancashire’s involvement Lancashire has a proud heritage, closely connected to the Commonwealth. Many people in the diverse community in Lancashire have Commonwealth connections. It is hoped that the people of Lancashire will embrace the Commonwealth in 2018, getting together to celebrate our rich and diverse Commonwealth connections and cultural heritage, and in doing so, honour The Queen. Reflecting on the

importance of Lancashire’s connections, Dennis Mendoros OBE, DL said: “This is the biggest meeting of Commonwealth Heads of Government that the UK has ever hosted and it will bring together up to 53 Commonwealth leaders, and Foreign Ministers and thousands of people from across business and civil society, representing the Commonwealth’s vibrant and diverse global network. “This is a golden opportunity for Lancashire businesses to showcase their capabilities and promote Lancashire as a thriving economic centre. “I am delighted that Preston based The Samuel James Group, producer of Business Lancashire, has been commissioned to produce this prestigious Lancashire focused publication, in recognition and celebration of Her Majesty The Queen’s involvement with the Commonwealth.”

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LANCASHIRE PARTICIPATES

IN THE CELEBRATIONS

hilst many of the main celebratory and commemorative events will take place in London, 2018 is a year to celebrate the Commonwealth across the UK – and, indeed, across the Commonwealth. At the forefront in the regions, will be Lancashire, when we will host several events to demonstrate our pride in having such close links with The Commonwealth, celebrate Her Majesty’s connection with the Commonwealth and highlight our contributions towards a common future. One of the major events is: Commonwealth Voices This is an event to help the young people of

Lancashire find their voice and share their vision for a ‘common future’, driving forward initiatives that will promote prosperity, sustainability, security and fairness throughout the Commonwealth. To mark the occasion, a Spoken Word Performance Poetry Competition for schools will take place across Lancashire. Developed in conjunction with the Rt Hon the Lord Shuttleworth KG, KCVO, the Lord-Lieutenant for Lancashire, the competition provides a valuable opportunity for schools to promote and embed the aspirations of the Commonwealth, explore

the global challenges facing our world and celebrate Lancashire’s rich and varied Commonwealth connections and cultural heritage. Supported by Lancashire’s key Local Authorities – including Lancashire County Council, Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council and Blackpool Council – the competition will celebrate diversity and give young people a platform to advocate positive change. Shortlisted finalists will perform their Spoken Word Performance Poetry in front of a live audience at the Lancashire Civic Leaders’ Commonwealth Celebration Event on Wednesday 18 April 2018.

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100 YEARS IN BUSINESS

HERE TO HELP YOU GROW The North & Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce (NWLCC) is an exclusive business membership organisation that gives decision makers access to the necessary resources and information to run and develop their business. More than 1,600 North & Western Lancashire businesses of all sizes are benefiting from our extensive range of membership services. For more information on how to get networking and to discover more about how you can grow your business contact the Chamber now:

01772 653000 or 01253 347063

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One of the largest economies in the Northern Powerhouse with

LANCASHIRE

52,000 £29

Employs 85,000 workers in the manufacturing and engineering sector with UK's largest concentration of aerospace employment

businesses generating

Billion

London to Preston in 2 hours

Linked by 6 major motorways and 2 international ports

30 minutes from Manchester airport

4 successful universities including: Edge Hill University, University of Central Lancashire, Cumbria University and Lancaster University, The Times & The Sunday Times University of the Year 2017

Lancashire Advanced Manufacturing and Energy Enterprise Zone Cluster across four sites: Blackpool Airport EZ Hillhouse Technology EZ Samlesbury Aerospace EZ Warton Aviation EZ

18m

41,000

Blackpool is the UK’s most visited seaside destination attracting 18m visitors each year

working in the energy and environment sector

per year Home to the world's 4th largest global aerospace cluster with 500 aerospace supply chain companies

£450m Preston, South Ribble & Lancashire City Deal

A potential global leader in the development of Small Modular Nuclear Reactors

TOWARDS A COMMON FUTURE

ancashire’s people and companies want to support The Commonwealth’s strong and vibrant future, building on deep partnerships that embrace its unique and diverse membership. Later in this publication, there will be examples of where we are supporting the four themes of: A more prosperous future: Boosting intra-Commonwealth trade and investment and maximising the opportunities offered by the Commonwealth Advantage. A more secure future: Increasing cooperation across security challenges including global terrorism, organised crime and cyber attacks. A more sustainable future: Building the resilience of small and vulnerable states to deal with the effects of climate change and other global crises.

A fairer future: Promoting democracy, fundamental freedoms and good governance across the Commonwealth. Central to understanding our commitment, one needs to understand what drives Lancashire’s people and companies; what are our main employment sectors, where we excel and our culture, heritage and attractions. We are Lancashire Lancashire is a dynamic economic region within the North West and the wider North of England. It has a unique offer to make and role to play in the Northern Powerhouse, with 52,350 businesses generating £29 billion per year. We are the only area that borders the North’s two biggest city regions, Manchester and Leeds, which will drive much of the North’s economic renaissance, and we also count the Liverpool City

Region, Cumbria and North Yorkshire as our immediate neighbours. Lancashire’s leading international and national position in relation to aerospace, advanced engineering and manufacturing, energy, higher education institution excellence and visitor economy make it a pivotal part of the long term economic growth of the North. Creativity in all its forms is part of our DNA. From hard working beginnings in the Industrial revolution to today’s high-tech businesses, pushing Lancashire to the forefront of a range of industries. We are rightly proud of our amazing pedigree for invention, ingenuity and innovation. Lancashire not only excels at having bright ideas, but also knows how to convert those ideas into burgeoning enterprises.

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A MORE PROSPEROUS FUTURE...

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LANCASHIRE’S WORLD CLASS

ORGANISATIONS

AND SECTORS Number one in the UK for advanced manufacturing We employ over 85,000 specialists in the manufacturing and engineering sector with 3,500 of those employed in the automotive industry. Number one in the UK for aerospace We work with over 500 aerospace supply companies making us the world’s 4th largest aerospace cluster. Today, major players like BAE Systems, Rolls Royce and Safran employ more than 13,000 people in the area, giving us the greatest concentration of aerospace production in the UK. And we have room for more. The future is well on the way, in

the shape of new Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, including the world’s most advanced, Taranis, being built right here. And with the Advanced Manufacturing and Aerospace Zone based at BAE Systems’ sites at Samlesbury and Warton, there are thousands more jobs, countless apprenticeship opportunities and cutting-edge logistics to come. BAE Systems, which assembles the UK’s Eurofighter Typhoons and will build ten per cent of the F-35 programme - the largest military aerospace programme ever, worth $1 trillion - is based in Lancashire and other Lancashire firms are supplying the civil aviation

market, such as the nearby Airbus UK facility. Lancashire makes a significant contribution to the whole aerospace supply chain, with world-class firms like Senior Aerospace Weston, Magellan Aerospace, RollsRoyce and Safran, to name but a few, operating in areas such as metal machining of aircraft structural and engine components, the process and treatment industry and engine sub-systems. Global leader in the development and assembly of Small Modular Nuclear Reactors Over 12,000 people are employed in civil engineering, a key area in energy infrastructure and provision;

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design and fashion and film, media and broadcasting.

particularly in nuclear, renewables and water. It also represents a skills base which is nationally in short supply. The Lancashire Advanced Manufacturing and Energy Cluster Four key development sites have been combined into one dynamic, world-class and overarching investment destination - the Lancashire Advanced Manufacturing and Energy Cluster. The cluster includes Samlesbury, Warton, Blackpool Airport and Hillhouse EZ sites, which combine to provide a world class offer to investors and occupiers in the advanced manufacturing, energy and engineering sectors. The cluster has the potential

to generate 10,000 new high value jobs and ensure Lancashire builds on its position as one of the UK’s leading centres of excellence in advanced manufacturing and energy. We are a vibrant, growthdriven digital and creative sector Lancashire creates, communicates and engages, with a digital and creative sector that’s quickly becoming a central pillar of our economy. With over 400 creative and digital companies in the area with an annual GVA contribution of £700m – plus many more on our doorstep at Media City near Manchester – we can boast leading players in

A leading food & drink County We offer world class food and drink experiences, from Michelin star dining to some of the UKs best awardwinning produce. Lancashire is more than 80% rural. This natural landscape gives strength to a whole array of produce direct from farmland. With eight producers of Lancashire Cheese and 23 microbreweries, Ashcroft’s cauliflowers, Lancashire reared Goosnargh Chicken and Duck and Morecambe Bay Shrimp by Royal Warrant, to name just a few Lancashire promotes a strong relationship between the land and food & drink. Lancashire produces one of just 12 British Protected Designation of Origin cheeses. An abundance of award winning and well-reviewed restaurants, pubs and coffee shops support Lancashire’s food and drink strength through superb hospitality. This includes the Michelin starred Northcote and Moor Hall, the Inn at Whitewell, frequented regularly by the Queen as part of the Duchy of Lancaster, and the Freemasons, highest ranked and only pub to feature in the Good Food Guide for three years running. Around 12,000 people are employed specifically in food & drink manufacturing activities in Lancashire, representing 2.0% of employees compared to the national average of 1.3% for Great Britain. The whole industry supply chain is represented in Lancashire. From raw materials, meat processors and dairies to logistics. 31

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Leisure attractions are a speciality We are host to over 67 million visitors every year contributing £4.3billion to the local economy. With 137 miles of coastal footpaths, seven long distance walking routes, The Forest of Bowland and Arnside & Silverdale Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Rossendale’s Adrenaline Valley and numerous Wetland and nature trails, we have a strong outdoor adventure offering. We are also steeped in history and cultural diversity. From historic Lancaster with its Georgian roots, to East Lancashire and its canals and waterways with stories from the industrial revolution. Lancaster Castle is the Queen’s only castle in the north of England and has a history of over 1000 years of crime and punishment, as well as the famous Lancashire Witches. Blackpool is the UK’s most visited seaside destination attracting 17million visitors every year, coupled with

award winning spas, boutique hotels, cosy inns and family attractions, this gives Lancashire a diverse offering, appealing to all ages and interests for short breaks. We are nationally and globally connected Lancashire’s central location and our strong road and rail infrastructure mean we are well connected locally, nationally and globally. Internationally, we are easily accessible from neighbouring cities of Liverpool, Leeds, Manchester and beyond and are connected to the world’s cargo routes by air, sea and rail. Just 35 minutes from Manchester airport, our global connections are endless. Centres of educational excellence and global research Our four Universities attract thousands of students and research fellows both nationally and internationally every year • Lancaster University is recognised as one of the

world’s top 50 universities and ranked eighth in the UK. • UCLAN is one of the country’s 10 largest universities and first modern university in the UK to be recognised by the QS World Rankings. • Edge Hill University is currently recognised as the UK’s university of the year and a national leader in graduate employment outcomes. • University of Cumbria is one is of the UK’s newest universities with a site in Lancaster. It’s strengths are in education, healthcare and visual and performing arts. Lancashire’s Universities and Colleges combine to produce the UK’s largest source of STEM graduates. With a local student population of 62,000 and the University of Central Lancashire (UCLAN) and Lancaster University’s strong focus on engineering, this provides a source of new talent that is nationally in short supply.

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A WORLD LEADING

LOYD BMW Blackpool has been recognised globally as the best ‘BMW Retailer in Customer Care’ at the prestigious worldwide BMW Excellence in Sales Awards, held in Munich. Lloyd BMW Blackpool was the UK’s sole representative in these awards, which are the culmination of regional and national evaluations of thousands of international BMW retailers. BMW honoured its 36 best dealers worldwide during the Excellence in Sales awards ceremony in Munich. The awards were presented by the programme’s patron, Ian Robertson, BMW AG Management Board member for BMW Group. With a record year for BMW Group sales, these awards recognise the outstanding contribution made by the company’s dealers worldwide. An impressive jury including BMW Excellence in Sales patron Dr Ian Robertson (HonDSc), his first-line management team, and representatives from BMW Group Corporate Quality decided on the award winners. They had a wealth of choice: 3,000 entries were received from

DEALERSHIP

80 different countries. The worldwide finalists were assessed on their customer communication skills, plus their ability to anticipate customer demands and quickly resolve customer problems. Over the past few years, BMW has placed a particular focus on listening to and acting upon customer feedback to ensure that every customer’s experience reflects what the BMW brand stands for. Lloyd BMW Blackpool has consistently achieved exceptionally high ratings from its customers, hence why it has previously been honoured with the prestigious title of ‘BMW UK Retailer of the Year’, an accolade that the Lloyd Motor Group has been awarded four times in ten years. Recent Lloyd BMW Blackpool customer feedback was highlighted in summarising the award for best ‘BMW Retailer in Customer Care’: “Lloyd BMW Blackpool were incredibly easy to deal with. The sales and service personnel remembered my needs and preferences from previous purchases and visits and showed a great understanding of what best suited me. I was given as

much time and attention as I needed - no rushing, making the whole experience very customer focused and personalised.” Mark Powell, Head of Business, accepted the award in Munich, on behalf of Lloyd BMW Blackpool. He said: “At Lloyd BMW Blackpool we know the key to our success is our customers, which is why we strive to put them at the heart of everything we do, whether they are choosing a new BMW or maintaining their current one. Our goal isn’t to simply sell them a BMW; we try to go above and beyond every day, doing everything we can to guarantee an enjoyable customer experience that’s designed to accommodate everyone’s unique needs.” Gary Bingley, BMW and MINI Franchise Director for Lloyd Motor Group, said: “We really appreciate BMWs recognition of our continuous focus and culture on delivering exceptional customer care across Lloyd Motor Group. Well-deserved recognition goes to the entire Lloyd BMW Blackpool team who have been recognised as the best in the world!” 33

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LANCASHIRE:

UNBELIEVABLE CULTURAL EVENTS,

HERITAGE AND ATTRACTIONS Our Attractions Our world-famous attractions in Blackpool receive by far the highest number of visitors, which reflects the resort’s popularity; the resort accounts for almost 27% of all Lancashire’s visitors. A handful of Lancashire’s attractions have a national reputation: Blackpool Pleasure Beach, Blackpool Tower, Blackpool Illuminations and Lancaster Castle are the best recognised, though geographical areas and features such as the Ribble Valley and Pendle Hill have growing profiles. Our Heritage Lancashire’s rich, diverse and distinctive heritage is reflected across a wide range of historic properties and museums that visitors enjoy; examples include Samlesbury Hall, Hoghton Tower, Browsholme Hall and Towneley Hall Museum, to name but a few. The county is also home to a limited number of National Trust properties - Gawthorpe Hall and Rufford Old Hall and four English Heritage sites - Goodshaw Chapel, Sawley Abbey, Warton Old Rectory and the Whalley Abbey Gatehouse. Some of our historical links and stories are unsurpassed – from the infamous Pendle Witches trial of 1612 to the knighting of Sir Loin at Hoghton Tower. Collections of national and international significance, include the largest collection of Tiffany glass in Europe housed at the Haworth Art Gallery and the traditional fine art of the

19th century displayed at the Harris Museum & Art Gallery, including water colours by JMW Turner and Samuel Palmer. The Great Outdoors The county is blessed with numerous attractions where visitors can experience the great outdoors. Centres such as WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre, RSPB Leighton Moss and Brockholes have some of the highest visitor footfall numbers in North West England. Additionally, the county has 18 nature centres and six sculpture trails for visitors to follow. Lancashire’s inland waterways, such as the Lancaster Canal and Leeds & Liverpool Canal, provide great experiences for visitors. Events The county stages an enormous number and range of events each year, from vintage seaside to walking and cycling festivals, from events celebrating our canals and industrial heritage, to venue-based events including circuses, comedy festivals and science events. Visitors discover the majority of the county’s events while they are on a visit and as a consequence leave the county feeling that they have had an authentic Lancastrian experience. A relatively small number of events, staged mainly in the summer season, are known outside of the county and attract visitors in their own right: they include Vintage by the Sea Festival,

the Illuminations Switch On, Lytham Festival, The Dukes annual promenade theatre performances, Light Up Lancaster and Clitheroe Food Festival. Blackpool to the fore Cultural activities are increasingly being developed as a leading driver for tourism; for example, Blackpool’s renaissance builds on the resort’s extraordinary entertainment history, with high quality cultural events and developments at the heart of its transformation. The resort boasts a strong track record of consistently delivering signature events that attract tens of thousands of visitors: Lightpool and Blackpool Illuminations, Blackpool Dance Festival, Gordon Young’s Comedy Carpet, Showzam and the Blackpool Air Show. Alongside the development of new events, plans for a new £26m Blackpool Museum will celebrate the town’s pivotal role in the development of British popular culture and entertainment. Blackpool’s cultural ambition forms part of a greater aspiration across Lancashire to amplify our voice and secure widespread recognition for our centres of excellence in cultural activity, clearly placing them as key drivers within visitor markets both nationally and internationally. 35

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TRANSPORT IN BLACKPOOL, AN ELECTRIFYING HERITAGE

lackpool Transport operates a network of high frequency buses and trams across the Fylde Coast with 140 buses, 18 modern light rail trams and a fleet of Heritage trams. Operating 14 bus routes, linking Fleetwood, Cleveleys, Thornton, Bispham, Poulton, Blackpool, St Anneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and Lytham, as well as utilising 11 miles, along the coast from Starr Gate to Fleetwood, Blackpool Transport connects the Fylde Coast to the rest of Lancashire, acting as a vital part of daily life on the Lancashire West coast. Opened on 29th September 1885, Blackpool has the oldest electric street tramway in the world. Originally proposed in 1884, when track plans were produced for an electric tramway that would connect North and South Shore, the project was facilitated by the Blackpool Corporation, who paid for and maintained the infrastructure, whilst the Blackpool Electric Tramway Company, formed in January 1885, provided the electrical equipment, depot and tramcars. Originally picking up its electrical current from a grooved slot in the centre of the track, the system operated

temperamentally during its early years, due to difficulties with this method of current collection in the seaside location. Salt water and sand regularly filled the slot, resulting in trams being dragged by horses to get to their destinations. The system was, however, a commercial success and in 1892, the Corporation took over the running of the tramway and the first of many extensions began in 1895. By the late 1890s, the difficulties with the electrical system led to the conversion of the tramway to the use of overhead wires being installed. In 1898, the Blackpool and Fleetwood Tramroad Company opened a rival line between Gynn Square and Fleetwood Ferry. The two tramways were not connected until the Fleetwood line was taken over by Blackpool Corporation in 1920 and for the first time, continuous running was introduced

between South Shore and Fleetwood. By this time Blackpool enjoyed an extensive network of street tramways to Layton, Squires Gate, along Central Drive and round Marton, as well as along the Promenade. In the 1920s, Blackpool also began the first of its bus operations. General Manager Walter Luffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s arrival in 1933 heralded a golden age of transport in Blackpool, with the introduction of a luxury tram fleet and a matching fleet of streamlined buses and during this decade, some tram routes were replaced by buses. After the Second World War, there was gradual consolidation and by 1962, the trams were confined to the 11-mile route from Starr Gate to Fleetwood, which still operates today. The bus services expanded along with the town throughout the sixties, seventies and eighties. Since bus deregulation in 1986, the trams and buses have been operated by Blackpool Transport Services Ltd, a Blackpool Council Company. The modern Light Rail trams, along with the tramway infastructure, is owned by Blackpool Council and leased to the company, which

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pays an annual track rental fee for the privilege. The bus services suffered from local competition throughout the 1980s and early 90s, culminating in the purchase by Blackpool Transport of the former Lytham St Anne’s Corporation Services, which by 1993, were running as Blue Buses. The Blue Buses depot at Squires Gate was kept for several years, until all operations were consolidated on one site at Rigby Road. In 2001, all the bus services were re-branded as the Metro Coastlines network, with colour specific vehicles on each route and at the time, this proved very successful. In 2008 the Department for Transport announced that Blackpool and Lancashire Councils had been granted multi-million pound funding to upgrade the tramway infrastructure to light

rail standard with new wheelchair-accessible trams which entered service on 3rd April 2012. In 2015, Blackpool Transport launched the new Palladium service, with an investment of £1.7 million on new Mercedes Citaro buses, demonstrating the importance of safe, comfortable and affordable travel to Blackpool Transport. A number of the heritage and vintage trams have been retained to supplement the new trams and to provide heritage, open-top and illuminated trams to operate on the upgraded tracks. These exciting new developments have created an opportunity for Blackpool Transport to build on its 125 year history and to lay the foundations for the future. ‘‘We are incredibly proud of the unique history of

transport in Blackpool. Over the past 125 years, Blackpool has been a centre for innovation in safety, technology and comfort. We are delighted to have played a part in maintaining our glorious heritage, as we continue to invest in transport infrastructure across the Fylde Coast’’ enthused Jane Cole, CEO, Blackpool Transport, who was a Common Purpose Commonweath World Leader in 2016. This has helped her promote collaborative working in the resort between the public, private and NGO sector. ‘‘As we continue to grow, investment will be a key priority, ensuring that the service we provide is of the highest standard and our buses and trams remain some of the best the UK has to offer.’’ 37

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BLACKPOOL TOWER: A HERITAGE TO BE PROUD OF

nspired by The Eiffel Tower, the opening of The Blackpool Tower on 14th May 1894 altered the landscape of Blackpool, providing the town with an iconic symbol for the last 124 years. Opened as an all-encompassing family attraction, it was and still is an entertainment venue for all. On the opening day, over 500 people per hour took the journey in the hydraulic lifts, while those eagerly waiting were entertained by an orchestra. In total, over 3000 guests visited the top on the opening day, with the most common phrase being, ‘eeh, they looked like fleas’ – it was an instant hit. While The Blackpool Tower was often compared to The Eiffel Tower, the former was unique in the sense that the buildings contain ‘more entertainment than any other building in Europe, perhaps in the world’, as described by The Tower Company. With so many attractions under one roof, where else could you go for a dance in a ballroom, experience the excitement of a circus, and see the wonders of an aquarium, finished with a trip to the top of the Tower? Over the past 124 years, there have been many adaptions, changes and refurbishments in a bid to keep the visitors coming. The earliest attraction, and one that predated the Tower buildings, was the aquarium which had been on the site since 1874. Purchased by the Tower Company in 1891, ‘Doctor Cocker’s Aquarium’ was incorporated into the

south wing of the Tower building. Over the years, the aquarium adapted to eventually include hundreds of different species of aquatic life, including tropical species of fish, conger eels, dogfish sharks and even turtles. Adapted again in 1977, the original Victorian fixtures were removed and replaced with modern interiors. In 2003, two pacific green sea turtles and a loggerhead turtle were relocated to SEALIFE Brighton after 60 years. In 2010 and after 116 years, the ageing attraction was eventually removed, which made way for a new attraction – The Blackpool Tower Dungeon. One of the tower’s most famous attractions is The Blackpool Tower Ballroom. Opened originally as the Tower Pavilion, it was without doubt the most prominent dancing venue in town. With a capacity of up to 6000, the Pavilion was an immediate success resulting in many other dance venues being opened in the resort. Due to the popularity of The Pavilion, the rival Winter Gardens Company commissioned the opulently decorated Empress Ballroom in 1896. In a response to this, the Tower Company decided to up the ante and commissioned famous theatre architect, Frank Matcham, to transform the Tower Pavilion. Matcham had the room extended, roof heightened, balconies raised, seating added and the addition of a sliding roof. Since the renovations in 1899, other than repairs due to a fire in 1956, the Tower

Ballroom remains unchanged and true to Frank Matchum’s original designs. Equally popular, The Blackpool Tower Circus was one of the original attractions within The Blackpool Tower. Sitting in the base of the structure between the four legs, the Tower Circus has been entertaining audiences continually since opening in 1894. The installation of the Circus when the Tower opened was at the peak of ‘Circus’ in terms of its popularity as an art form. Due to its success, other circuses started to arrive in town with the main competitors being the Alhambra Circus in 1899 and the Hippodrome Circus in 1900. Originally the Tower Circus was plain in décor, with a water feature (still used today) being the main focus. Under pressure from the competitors in the town, once again the Tower Company decided to hire Frank Matcham to transform the arena. Similar to the Tower Ballroom, the Tower Circus contained ornate plasterwork, however in the Tower Circus, Matcham’s indulgence was a Moorish and Oriental style, contrasting to the baroque feel of the Ballroom. Standing the test of the time, the Tower Circus is the only remaining Circus in Blackpool and over 250,000 guests a year still visit the show, surrounded by Matcham’s original work. Marking a new chapter in its history, the Tower was purchased by Blackpool Council in 2010, with Merlin

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TOWER FOUNDATION STONE 1891

DR COCKER’S AQUARIUM & MENAGERIE 1893

TOWER AQUARIUM 1950s

TOWER CIRCUS 1955

TOWER AQUARIUM 1997

TOWER AQUARIUM 2003

TOWER EYE SKYWALK 2018

TOWER CIRCUS 2018

Entertainments selected to manage and operate the attractions. Merlin Entertainments has continued the previous work to update and develop the offerings, in order to keep attracting the masses. Significant

investments include a new immersive theatre experience, with Blackpool Tower Dungeon and also the Tower Top ascent has been complemented by a one million pound 4D Cinema and a glass skywalk, relaunched as ‘The Blackpool

Tower Eye’. These new investments, combined with the grandeur of the Tower Ballroom and the splendour of the Tower Circus, have secured the future of The Blackpool Tower, which continues to draw over one million visitors per year. 39

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LANCASHIRE’S

INVESTMENT HOTSPOTS

entral Lancashire The area includes the city of Preston and the South Ribble region and is booming economically, culturally and socially. A key driver which is helping to generate this growth is the £434m City Deal programme, a key initiative of the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership’s strategic plan to create 50,000 new jobs over the next 10 years across the county. All Lancashire Local Authorities within the Deal’s footprint work closely together to ensure private investment can flourish, and their pragmatic approach to the planning process - and the substantial support on offer to help schemes get started – has seen big projects brought forward. These include developments in Preston such as the new Harris Quarter cinema and leisure scheme, the potential for the redevelopment of an ‘HS2 ready’ Preston train station, the £200m UCLan masterplan, the regeneration of Winckley

Square, and the Altus Grade A office project. New housing, roads and other major infrastructure investments have also been enabled by the City Deal, meaning Central Lancashire has all the elements to become a major city-region in the heart of Lancashire and a significant player within the Government’s Northern Powerhouse initiative. The City of Lancaster On the north east coast of the county, it is rapidly developing into a dynamic investment destination. The city’s excellent connectivity, high quality education provision, its unique urban, rural and coastal setting, and its outstanding cultural and lifestyle offer, are making it a real ‘one to watch’ region. It is currently enjoying a boom across a number of sectors, including energy and digital health, and will be soon be home to Lancaster University’s Health Innovation Campus (HIC). The £41m HIC development, which has been

supported by the Lancashire Enterprise Partnerships’ Growth Deal Fund, will spearhead advances in technologies and products to improve health nationally and globally. The HIC will drive business innovation, specifically creating new jobs by supporting 300 Lancashire-based businesses to develop new and innovative digital and technological solutions linked to healthcare. It will have a wider impact by engaging regionally, nationally and internationally with hundreds of companies. Lancashire Central The Cuerden based strategic site is a 65-hectare investment zone located south of Preston in the South Ribble district of Lancashire. Adjacent to a major motorway network, the site is set to be transformed into a hub of new homes, business premises and amenities. The scheme, led by Lancashire County Council, the Eric Wright Group and

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Brookhouse Group, will provide around 200,000 sq. m of development land and deliver significant new employment space, offices and logistics facilities. It will also feature a new IKEA for Central Lancashire and five further large format retail units. In addition, Cuerden will accommodate six restaurant units, alongside new cycle and footways, new homes, a new hotel, and other leisure and hospitality outlets. It is expected to generate around £241 million per year to the Central Lancashire economy, creating thousands of permanent jobs in addition to hundreds of jobs during construction. Burnley Knowledge Quarter & Vision Park Burnley, a major town east of Blackburn and just 21 miles north of Manchester, is already becoming a significant regional centre for advanced manufacturing and digital and creative industries. It is home to major companies such as Safran, MB Aerospace and BCW Engineering and also supports a thriving network of smart and innovative SMEs across a diverse range of sectors. Burnley’s Knowledge Quarter seeks to capitalise on the town’s entrepreneurial spirit and rich tradition of innovation through the creation of new business space, adjacent to local college and university campuses. The Knowledge Quarter includes Vision Park, a brand new, two-hectare business park, featuring up to 130,000 sq. ft. of development space. Vision Park offers a mix of high quality work space and office units, an enterprise

centre for small and growing business, and other commercial facilities and amenities. Its proximity to colleges and the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) means businesses in and around Vision Park and the Knowledge Quarter can benefit from close collaboration, research and knowledge transfer through links with higher education. Samlesbury Enterprise Zone Part of the county’s wider Advanced Manufacturing and Energy Cluster - which also includes the county’s three other Enterprise Zone sites at Warton, Blackpool Airport and Hillhouse in Wyre - the Samlesbury EZ is dedicated to aerospace and advanced manufacturing. Located in the heart of the largest cluster of aerospace production in the UK, which employs over 13,000 people, Samlesbury is currently being considered as a site for a new North West Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) in partnership with the world-leading AMRC in Sheffield. The Samlesbury EZ is also the location for BAE Systems, one of the world’s most advanced, technologyled defence, aerospace and security solutions companies. As well as being a major employer, BAE Systems recently invested £15.6m in a new Academy of Skills & Knowledge training facility in Lancashire. The hi-tech facility has delivered more than 250,000 hours of training since opening, and over 550 apprentices and graduates have been through its doors. This combination of EZ status, a tier-one aerospace tenant, fantastic skills

capacity and a potential AMRC facility makes Samlesbury one of the most dynamic AEM locations anywhere in the world. University of Central Lancashire The University of Central Lancashire’s Masterplan is a £200 million catalyst for regeneration. It’s an investment programme focused on improving the student experience and augmenting the City’s economy. Key projects in the Masterplan include the £60 million Student Centre and the £32 million Engineering Innovation Centre (EIC). The EIC has been identified as a signature project in Lancashire’s Strategic Economic Plan. It has secured £10.5 million via the Lancashire Enterprise Partnerships’ Growth Deal, £5.8million from the European Regional Development Fund and £5million from HEFCE’s STEM Capital Fund. The EIC will help reclaim Lancashire’s role as a national centre for advanced manufacturing, ensuring local skills reflect social and economic needs, and increase the number of women entering engineering careers. The Student Centre will enhance the outstanding support the University provides students and create an iconic gateway into campus. It is complemented by a new 8,440 sq. m civic square providing flexible space for a wide range of community, public, business and student uses. For more details on Lancashire’s investment opportunities, and the work of the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership, please visit http://www.lancashirelep. co.uk/ 41

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“I was looking for support to organise and improve our manufacturing processes and workflow, I got exactly what I asked for with the mentoring from Boost.” Matt Watts

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Boost; Lancashire’s Business Growth Hub, is helping the county’s businesses grow. If you’re looking to fuel your business growth, start the growth conversation today.

Disclaimer: Boost Business Lancashire is funded by the European Regional Development Fund and restrictions 42 apply. To see if your business is eligible and qualifies for support from the Boost programme, please call us on 0800 488 0057

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Funded support Growth programmes 3,500 businesses helped

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THOUSANDS OF LANCASHIRE FIRMS BOOSTED BY GROWTH HUB

ancashire firms are being encouraged to make the most of the support on offer through Boost, Lancashire’s business growth hub. The call comes after it was revealed Boost has helped almost 3,500 businesses in the county to access business support. Latest figures show Boost has also led to the creation of an estimated 500 new jobs since January 2016 when the growth hub secured £7.8m of funding to run for a further three years. In that time 170 new businesses have been established and £9.5m of new economic activity has been generated. Boost is led by the Lancashire LEP (Local Enterprise Partnership) and Lancashire County Council, and supported by funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). A wide range of free and part-funded business support is available through Boost in

areas including mentoring, access to finance, innovation, skills and training. County Councillor Michael Green, Cabinet member for economic development, environment and planning, said: “There have been some tremendous success stories of existing businesses and start-ups launching new products and services and creating new jobs. There’s no doubt that Boost has led to increased economic activity in the county. “The Cabinet recently committed to providing £1m in match funding to help us to attract funding and continue Boost to the end of December 2021. We’ve already seen a lot of success from Boost and we’re determined to continue this important work.” Businesses can access support from Boost by calling 0800 488 0057 or by visiting www. boostbusinesslancashire. co.uk

Funding puts driving school on road to growth A Preston driving school expects to raise turnover from £27,000 to £400,000 in three years, thanks to a five figure Rosebud Micro Loan secured through Boost’s Access to Finance programme. Established in 2014 by Chris Richards, 123 Driving School trains driving instructors as well as learner drivers. The Rosebud funding from Lancashire County Council has already enabled Chris to recruit two part-time office support staff, along with four self-employed driving instructors under the 123 Driving School franchise. The support staff are handling social media marketing activity as well as carrying out business administration, enabling Chris to focus on expanding the business. In addition, Chris has been able to move to bigger headquarters, which include a dedicated training room, in Preston Technology Management Centre. 43

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A MORE SECURE FUTURE...

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NORTH WEST AEROSPACE

ALLIANCE – A GLOBAL LEADER

any Commonwealth countries have strong innovation, defence of the realm and security ties with the North West of England. This is because the North West’s aerospace cluster, home to the manufacturing bases of the likes of Rolls Royce, BAE Systems and Safran, is the largest in Europe. The cluster contributes over £7 billion to the UK economy, accounting for over 25% of the UK’s aerospace and defence turnover. The North West Aerospace Alliance (NWAA) is the leading sector organisation in the region, representing and uniting companies and organisations involved in the aerospace sector supply chain. By supporting this innovative cluster, NWAA provides a visionary structure and actively works with them towards a more sustainable and secure future. Formed in 1994, NWAA has developed considerable technical expertise to support aerospace companies through the delivery of over

£20 million of supply chain improvement programmes, such as Aerospace Supply Chain Excellence (ASCE), Growing Autonomous Mission Management Applications (GAMMA) and the National Aerospace Technology Programme (NATEP). Having recently launched the new SC21 Competitiveness & Growth Programme in the North West, NWAA continues with its mission to help support, develop and shape companies within the North West Aerospace Supply Chain. Throughout its short history, NWAA has shaped the industry through strategic thinking and delivery, as well as driving innovation and providing supply chain excellence and other business support programmes. Fundamental to its achievements, is its strategy of working with key stakeholders to develop state of the art products, services and supply chain development programmes

that will advance and underpin the industry for the future. Sharon McDonald, Director of Marketing and Communications, NWAA said: “Working together towards a more secure global future is of the utmost importance, both within the Commonwealth and further afield. The NWAA works with some of the biggest names in the UK aerospace and defence sectors to offer integrated support, advice and networking opportunities. “Through driving innovation, we contribute towards a more prosperous and sustainable future for the North West and beyond. The programmes implemented by the NWAA have led to significant improvements in the supply chain, resulting in a more engaging, prosperous and united aerospace sector in the North West, which will ultimately benefit our friends in the Commonwealth and the rest of the world.”

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XCINA: HELPING TO CREATE A MORE SECURED BY DESIGN

DIGITAL RESILIENT FUTURE

he Commonwealth theme this year is ‘Towards a Common Future’, which addresses how members of the Commonwealth can work in unison to address global challenges and create a better future for all citizens. One of the biggest threats is cyber security and a Lancashire based company is leading the way to help mitigate these threats and ensure companies and organisations can become more digitally resilient. Xcina is part of the AIM listed, digital resilience company, Shearwater Group. Their northern base is in Preston and they aim to provide digital, operational and regulatory solutions and services, in support of resilience and risk, which are scalable to current and future needs. In particular, Xcina is helping businesses across Lancashire to work towards a more secure digital future, through developing

cooperation and partnerships across security challenges including global terrorism, organised crime and cyber security. Xcina helps companies protect their critical information assets by preparing them for the increasing legislative and regulatory demands on how data is held and processed and the on-going monitoring, analysis, detection and response to cyber threats. The company works with many organisations, including the Welsh Government, and the London Digital Security Centre to ensure the risks to individuals and organisations across the country are minimised. One ground breaking initiative is the nationwide ‘Secured By Design – Police Crime Prevention initiative’, the first police-backed accreditation scheme for companies involved in the cyber security market recognising that physical and

cyber security go hand in hand. Xcina in Lancashire is one of the six UK founding companies accredited to the scheme and will be proactively promoting the benifits. Companies awarded Secured By Design status, have a responsibility to uphold the integrity and robustness of the scheme. This responsibility is not just about complying with the law, but about demonstrating a range of professional behaviours and ethical working practices that sets them apart from other cyber security companies. Kevin Porter, Business Development Director, Xcina, said: “We believe that cyber security is critically important for the future since the number of attacks, both from individuals and state sponsored organisations, is increasing daily, both in frequency and complexity. At Xcina, we look forward to working with organisations across the North to help them improve their digital resilience and also to support the new Secured By Design initiative. “2017 witnessed a number of high-profile cyber attacks and through our dark web surveillance and intelligence systems, we want to ensure that organisations have the knowledge and security in place to minimise such attacks and the damage, both financial and reputational, they cause.

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“As the digital landscape around the globe rapidly evolves, we are facing unprecedented levels of increasingly sophisticated and complex security threats. At Xcina, we analyse, monitor and detect these threats, improving operation controls and enabling you to be prepared for evolving regulation in an increasingly interconnected world. Hopefully everyone will soon

share a common future, where digital security systems are understood and in place. “Xcina offers a range of packages to suit the needs of any organisations, providing Cyber Essentials, e-learning solutions, Cyber Essentials Plus and certification to ISO27001 standard for organisations that require a high degree of security protection, as well

as customised consultancy across the sphere of digital, operational and regulatory resilience services, regardless of company size. Finally, we have also combined the best cyber threat intelligence, security operations centres and incident response expertise to bring Xcina’s customers a new suite of security services.” 49

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A MORE SUSTAINABLE FUTURE... 51

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A LEADER IN CREATING

SOCIAL VALUE

ecycling Lives’ unique model - using its commercial recycling operations to support lifechanging social programmes - is winning major contracts, as it creates social value worth millions for the UK. Its rising sales, growing customer base and national expansion have propelled it from a family firm to a multi-million-pound national business - all with Queen’s Awards support along the way. This unique organisation, headquartered in Preston has been awarded the Queen’s Award for Sustainable Development twice in its 10-years of operating - first in 2010 and again in 2014. It is the only business in the county to hold a current Sustainable Development accolade and has stayed true to the award’s ethos, enjoying ongoing growth in recent

years. Its social model, using its commercial operations in recycling and waste management to directly deliver and sustain three life-changing social impact programmes, has accelerated this growth. Having already won royal support, the three programmes are now winning hearts and minds of major national businesses, who value Recycling Lives’ commercial expertise and commitment to using contracts to deliver social impact. Recycling Lives is committed to creating social value equal to or greater than 10% of annual sales. For the second year running, it has surpassed this commitment, creating £5.2m social value from its activities in 2016/17 (against sales of £46.5m), up by 25% from £4.1m social

value in 2015/16 (against sales of £31.7m). The organisation has created £9.3m social value through: • Food redistribution Delivering meals to vulnerable communities by redistributing surplus food from supermarkets and suppliers to charities and community groups. Recycling Lives’ Food Redistribution Centre has delivered around 1.5million meals to date, diverting hundreds of tonnes of surplus from landfill. • Offender rehabilitation Offering opportunities for offenders to undertake training and work to improve their skills and employability ahead of release. Recycling Lives’ HMP Academies programme is working with 200 men and women in nine UK prisons and has a near 100% success rate in reducing reoffending.

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• Residential charity Supporting marginalised men to regain their independence through stable accommodation, intensive personal support, training and work placements, with a view to moving into good jobs and their own home. These impressive Social Value figures standing at £2.3m and £0.3m respectively - are calculated by a Social Return on Investment practitioner, using national and government metrics to find the saving to society generated by Recycling Lives’ redistributing food, reducing reoffending and supporting homeless men. Alasdair Jackson CSR and Sustainability Director (pictured meeting Her Majesty The Queen)

said: “We are proud to be recognised for our progressive social business model. Our commitment to social value is fundamental to achieving significant commercial growth each year, thanks to contract wins from businesses who share and support our core values. “We proudly publish our impact results each year, within a dedicated Social Value Report, to share both qualitative and quantitative results of our programmes. We tell the stories of parents who are reconnecting with their children thanks to good jobs with Recycling Lives and the stable lifestyle and housing this affords them. “While we know the social value of our work, through savings to society, is significant, we are most

proud of the invaluable difference we can make to families by reconnecting them, allowing parents to become role models once more.” Recycling Lives earned its first Queen’s Award in 2010 for its innovative recycling processes for waste electrical and electronic equipment. In 2014, it achieved a second Queen’s Award, this time for its inaugural HMP Academy in HMP Kirkham. The Academy has created opportunities for hundreds of men, all developing skills, earning an enhanced wage and having intensive support ahead of release. It was the first of now nine HMP Academies in UK prisons, paving the way for Recycling Lives’ unparalleled success in offender rehabilitation. The HMP Academies programme is the most successful offender rehabilitation project of its kind in UK prisons, seeing a near 100% success rate in reducing reoffending. Of the 75 offenders who have been released from HMP Academies since 2015, just two have reoffended, while 73 have been supported into work and decent housing. Compared to the national reoffending rate - by which around two-thirds of offenders return to prison within one year of release this is significant. Recycling Lives is an industry-leading recycling and waste management business, processing waste streams for clients including BT, British Gas, Sellafield Ltd and Speedy. Across its nine national sites it processes scrap metal, scrap cars, general waste and waste electronic and electrical equipment (WEEE) to increase recycle rates and diversion from landfill. 53

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LANCASHIRE DAY

elebrated on 27 November, Lancashire Day commemorates the day in 1295 when Lancashire first sent representatives to Parliament. First celebrated in 1996, Lancashire Day is organised by Friends of Real Lancashire and is observed with the loyal toast to ‘The Queen, Duke of Lancaster’. Many towns, organisations and businesses throughout Lancashire host events celebrating the occasion, most notably with the reading of the Lancashire Day Proclamation by a Town Crier; which in 2018 is:

To the people of the city and county palatine of Lancaster Greetings! Know ye that this day, November 27th in the year of our Lord, Two Thousand and Eighteen, the 66th year of the reign of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Duke of Lancaster, is Lancashire Day

Know ye also, and rejoice, that by virtue of Her Majesty’s County Palatine of Lancaster, the citizens of the Hundreds of Lonsdale, North and South

of the Sands, Amounderness, Leyland, Blackburn, Salford and West Derby are forever entitled to style themselves Lancastrians.

Throughout the County Palatine, from the Furness Fells to the River Mersey, from the Irish Sea to the Pennines, this day shall ever mark the people’s pleasure in that excellent distinction - true Lancastrians, proud of the Red Rose and loyal to our Sovereign Duke. God bless Lancashire and God save The Queen, Duke of Lancaster. 55

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IT’S OUR MISSION TO MAKE PEOPLE ‘THE MOST EMPLOYABLE’ THAT THEY CAN BE. Our TEM S i M 3 1 £ ampus c n o e Centr one of s i e r i h as in Lanc st facilities of e the larg the country, in its kind d with the packe dustry n latest i ent equipm

We’re committed to delivering the next generation of talent across the Commonwealth of Nations, by inspiring, motivating and challenging our students to develop deep subject understanding and strong industry knowledge.

What we do for businesses: We find YOU the best candidates Tailor our training to your exact needs Find new skills and upskill existing staff Access to funding and Apprenticeship grant

What we do for learners: Give you the skills, experience and qualif ications that employers WANT and NEED Prioritise work readiness and career development Give you a variety of pathways into your career, including Apprenticeships Cater to all student needs, learning styles and techniques Provide quality vocational learning that’s backed by strong employer links Help you to take your next step, YOUR way

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A FAIRER FUTURE...

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PRESTON’S COLLEGE:

BUILDING A BETTER BRITAIN THROUGH INNOVATIVE TECHNICAL LEARNING

s a large College with more than 12,000 young and adult learners, Preston’s College aligns its curriculum to the evolving needs of employers, prioritising learners’ work readiness and career development through its mission of making people ‘THE most employable’. In response to local, regional and national employment needs and targets, Preston’s College delivers a quality technical provision that’s backed by strong employer links and multiple careers pathways. Each pathway encompasses career routes, including Apprenticeships, catering for all student needs, learning styles and techniques, be that classroom-based or on-thejob. Dr Lis Smith, principal and chief executive at Preston’s College, explained: “Our learning is rooted in innovation and skills development, to inspire, motivate and challenge our learners to develop both the deep subject understanding and the strong industry knowledge that’s so highly sought-after by employers. “For our young learners we separate

the fact from fiction so that young people and their parents understand that pursuing a vocational technical route is just as valued as traditional academic courses. All our pathways are designed to deliver industry recognised qualifications and the right mix of skills and experience to successfully achieve your next step in life your way, be that a further Apprenticeship, straight into employment or after University.” Preston’s College’s 12 university and professional pathways have been designed alongside industry partners and selected universities to give advanced learners leaving school a variety of routes into their desired career path. These specially selected courses also showcase the exciting career opportunities within niche sectors and those suffering the biggest shortage of

talent, such as engineering, civil construction or games design, in order to attract a bigger, more diverse workforce. With a strong focus on employability, Preston’s College builds meaningful relationships with key stakeholders and employers, fostering new innovation, partnerships and approaches to learning. By working with a number of employers across Lancashire, from creative start-ups to multi-billion pound global businesses, the College understands modern day skill needs and aligns its teaching with local priorities and the wider skills and employment agenda. The College’s £13m innovation and STEM Centre (iSTEM) is one of the largest facilities of its kind in the country and provides ‘real working environments’ that are designed and delivered in partnership with local STEM employers spanning advanced manufacturing, aerospace, civil engineering, health and digital industries. Packed with the latest industry equipment, the iSTEM Centre at Preston’s College features CNC machines, 3D printers and a six-seater twin

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engine Piper Aztec aircraft. Employers seek out candidates with great attitudes, proven workplace skills and industry-related qualifications and Preston’s College successfully delivers this and more by maintaining a culture of aspiration and ambition across its staff and students. The College also empowers its staff to develop creative approaches to learning and bring ‘live’ industry briefs into the classroom. Lis continued: “There are so many outstanding examples of innovation within the College and amongst highlights is the ‘After the Bees’ project with Manchester Museum, where our Computer Games Design students developed and presented their ideas for a new post-apocalyptic game, set 100 years in the

future, based around the global extinction of bees and the impact it would have on humanity. “We also offer a number of exciting trips to enhance our learner’s understanding and passion of a subject and showcase the wide range of roles available to them with some of the world’s leading employers. Our Aeronautical Engineering students have visited the Airbus A380 manufacturing facility in Toulouse, France and our Public Services students get to experience a five-day residential with the British Army.” As the leading provider of Apprenticeships in Central Lancashire, Preston’s College continues to offer a range of training levels to support the workforce needs and growth aspirations of Levy-paying and non-

Levy-paying employers, including higher and degree level Apprenticeships. Its higher level offering also continues to grow and evolve to reflect local requirements and Lancashire Enterprise Partnership (LEP) priorities, whether in degree based or professional qualifications delivered through both the classroom and higher Apprenticeship learning. Lis concluded: “We are firmly focussed on achieving our vision of creating the very best work-ready learners, to social mobility and to career development. “As a leading education provider, we recognise the role that Her Majesty The Queen has played and will continue to deliver the next generation of talent across the Commonwealth of Nations.” 59

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CREATING A FAIRER FUTURE

e live and work in a thriving and privileged county. Yet it is undeniable that the lives of some individuals in our communities continue to be blighted by poverty, inequality and disadvantage. The Community Foundation for Lancashire, part of a national network of 46 UK Community Foundations, has made it their mission to encourage businesses and individuals to help build united, stronger communities. Offering a wealth of expertise, knowledge and experience to ensure charitable giving has the greatest impact where it is needed most. Since its inception in 2007, on the instigation of Lord Lieutenant Lord Shuttleworth, the Community Foundation has been doing a lot of good for community groups and small charities in Lancashire. A dedicated team of 12 work with the local community to address a host of social issues, making sure maximum impact is delivered. Each year, the Community Foundation for Lancashire

produces Vital Signs, a report that utilises primary and secondary data on local community issues to guide giving in the most effective way. Vital Signs measures the vitality and aspirations of our communities; recognises significant trends, and identifies social priorities critical to quality of life. It acts as a unique guide to inform current and future charitable giving. Certain Boroughs in Lancashire fall within the 10% most deprived localities in England and have the lowest life expectancy rates. In-depth knowledge of the community allows the Community Foundation to find and reach charities, including lesser-known charities operating at grassroots level, ensuring funds create a lasting change. Rae Brooke, Chief Executive of the Community Foundation for Lancashire, said: “We are privileged to work with organisations such as United Utilities, B&M Bargains, Comic Relief and Government departments, plus private donors who

trust us with their local charitable giving. We will continue to work with new and existing donors, to grow stronger communities together in Lancashire. “Additionally, we work with inspirational individuals – talented, committed, local unsung heroes, who deliver a wide range of much needed support within our local communities. They make a real difference to the lives of the people they reach” The Community Foundation manages an endowment of over £4 million as well as delivering private, corporate and public sector programmes. Over the last ten years, the Community Foundation has distributed over £13 million to charities and community groups across the County. In 2016/17, the Community Foundation awarded 264 charitable grants worth £1.2 million. An example of a project supported by the Community Foundation and one of its corporate donors, United Utilities, Magic Club has recently been awarded funding to set up a new

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youth and community facility in Blackpool. The club was set up to tackle poor life outcomes for young people and lack of youth facilities. This facility will offer a safe and secure environment primarily for local young people, between the ages of 7 and 16, to support the development of life skills, informal learning and help build positive relationships within the community. There has not been a permanent youth facility in the area for over thirty years and over this time, deprivation levels have increased with statistics showing worsening outcomes for young people, including high levels of youth crime and anti-social behaviour, poor levels of educational attainment, the highest levels of young people not in employment, education or training (NEET), and poor health outcomes. Young people have

been involved in the refurbishment of the building via a partnership with Volunteer It Yourself (VIY), a national community interest company (CIC) who combine volunteering and DIY by challenging young people aged 14-24 to learn trade and building skills, on the job, by committing to fix local youth club and community centre buildings in need of essential repairs. This programme offers a range of activities to reduce social isolation and increase skills, provide opportunities for training, volunteering and employment, provide access to specialist support providers, build relationships with the wider community and encourage positive life choices. The Community Foundation defines strong communities as the extent to which individuals and businesses across Lancashire play an active

role in their local community and each otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives. A strong community is one in which local people are willing and able to sustain the interpersonal relationships and community institutions necessary for a good quality of life for all and has an indirect positive impact on issues such as health and wellbeing, safety and social isolation. Whilst incredible work by a host of community organisations is underway, there is still tremendous need in our area. By highlighting the concerns and issues that need addressing, the Community Foundation aspires to encourage Lancashireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s passionate individuals and pro-active business community to play their part in building a fairer Lancashire. For more information on the Community Foundation for Lancashire, please visit www.lancsfoundation.org.uk 61

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LANCASHIRE’S ROYAL

WARRANT HOLDERS

royal warrant is a document issued by a monarch, which confers rights or privileges on the recipient, or has the effect of law. A common form of Royal Warrant is the Royal Warrant of Appointment, referring to a warrant issued to tradespeople who supply goods or services to a royal court. Royal Warrants of Appointment They have been issued for centuries and are a mark of recognition of those who have an ongoing trading agreement to supply goods or services to the royal households of HM The Queen, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh or HRH The Prince of Wales, referred to as Grantors, for at least five years. Only ‘tradesmen’ can be offered Royal Warrants, the likes of media organisations, employment agencies and government bodies cannot be

awarded Royal Warrants. Recognition An organisation that is awarded a Royal Warrant of Appointment has the privilege of incorporating the Coat of Arms or the Heraldic Badge, where appropriate, to their logo and marketing material. To qualify Royal Warrants of Appointment are not automatically bestowed, it takes a minimum of five years of supplying goods or services to the member of the Royal Family before an organisation is eligible to have an application for a Royal Warrant of Appointment considered for recommendation. The application is presented to the Royal Household, initially via the buyer who makes the recommendation for inclusion. It then goes in front of the

Royal Household Warrants Committee, which is chaired by the Lord Chamberlain, the most senior officer of the Royal Household, who decides whether to accept the recommendation. Finally, it is confirmed by the Grantor, who personally signs it. The Grantor is empowered to reverse the Committee’s decision, and therefore the final decision to accept or withhold a grant is a very personal one. Current holders Some 850 individuals and companies, including nonUK companies, hold more than 1,100 warrants to the British Royal Family. There are holders across regions and sectors, including both individual craftspeople and multi-national organisations. However, the majority of the holders are in London, the South East and near the Royal Households.

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FIVE ORGANISATIONS IN LANCASHIRE CURRENTLY HOLD A ROYAL WARRANT Carr & Day & Martin Lytham based Carr & Day & Martin is the world’s oldest company involved in the manufacture of horse care products. Founded in 1765, the company has held a Royal Warrant since the reign of King George IV and still holds the Royal Warrant today for the supply of quality saddlery care products to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Day, Son & Hewitt Day, Son & Hewitt has been at the forefront of manufacturing premium quality horse supplements for 175 years. Based in Lytham, Day, Son and Hewitt was first awarded the Royal Warrant in 1865, during the reign of Queen Victoria and continues to hold it to this day. The company’s products are distributed by a hand-picked network of the equestrian retailers.

Crown Paints With a heritage dating back to 1777, Darwen based Crown Paints proudly holds the Royal Warrant. First awarded to them in 1949, as supplier to King George VI, the warrant has since been renewed by HM Queen Elizabeth II. Crown Paints’ brands such as Crown Trade, Sandtex Trade and Sadolin are specified for some of the most prestigious buildings in the British Isles.

James Baxter & Son Founded in 1799, James Baxter & Son has been potting shrimps for over 200 years and can be regarded as true masters of the trade. Baxters original slogan “If it’s a fish course, it’s Baxters of course” still resonates throughout the Morecambe based firm today. The Royal Warrant was granted by HM Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother, to Harry Baxter in the 1960s. In the 1970s, the Royal Warrant from Her Majesty The Queen was granted and is still retained to this day.

Peter Reed International Established in 1861, Peter Reed International has been producing the highest quality fabric for generations. The Nelson firm’s Springbank Mill has even boasted the second largest weaving shed in the world, with no less than 748 shuttles. In 2008, the company was awarded the Royal Warrant of Appointment to Her Majesty The Queen as manufacturers of bed linen. 63

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QUEEN’S

AWARDS FOR ENTERPRISE

ntroduced by Royal Warrant in 1965, the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise have been presented annually since 1966, in recognition of commercial success. They are the UK’s most prestigious awards for business performance, and now recognise outstanding achievement in four categories: • International Trade • Innovation • Sustainable Development • Promoting Opportunity (through social mobility) The awards are open to UK based organisations, with at least two full-time employees (or part-time equivalents). The awards are valid for five years and winners may use the Queen’s Award for Enterprise logo in their promotions. Each year, a selection of nominated businesses across the UK are chosen to receive a Queen’s Award. Lancashire’s Queen’s Awards for Enterprise winners (2017) Many Lancashire companies have won Queen’s Awards in recent years and in 2017, the year of the Queen’s 91st birthday, local award winners were: • Greenbank Technology Ltd, Blackburn • The Tasty Bone Company Ltd, Blackburn • Chelsom Ltd, Blackpool 64

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LANCASHIRE’S QUEEN’S AWARDS FOR ENTERPRISE WINNERS YEAR NAME OF THE COMPANY

CATEGORY

2000 Singleton’s Dairy Ltd, Longridge

International Trade

2001 Solvent Resource Management Ltd, Morecambe

Innovation

2002 Shackerley (Holdings) Group Ltd, Chorley

Innovation

2002 BAE Systems (Land Platform Communications), Blackburn

International Trade

2002 Victrex Plc, Thornton Cleveleys

International Trade

2002 Flexipol Packaging Ltd, Haslingden

Innovation

2003 Fairbanks Environmental Ltd, Skelmersdale

Innovation

2003 Promethean Ltd, Blackburn

Innovation

2004 BSW Ltd, Lancaster

International Trade

2004 BMP Europe Ltd, Accrington

International Trade

2004 Panaz Ltd, Burnley

Innovation

2005 Millbrook Instruments Ltd, Blackburn

International Trade

2005 Nitecrest Ltd, Leyland

International Trade

2005 SiS (Science in Sport), Old Langho

Innovation

2006 Precision Polymers Engineering, Blackburn

Innovation

2006 Envirosystems UK Ltd, Barton

Innovation

2006 Vicrex Plc, Thornton Cleveleys

International Trade

2006 Langtec Ltd, Accrington

International Trade

2007 Precision Polymers Engineering Ltd, Blackburn

Innovation

2007 Helical Technology Ltd, Lytham St Annes

International Trade

2007 Shackerley (Holdings) Group Ltd, Chorley

Innovation

2007 Cobham Defence Communications Ltd, Blackburn International Trade 2007 Precision Polymers Engineering, Blackburn

International Trade

2007 BMP Europe Ltd, Accrington

Innovation

2008 Fort Vale Engineering Ltd, Nelson

International Trade

2009 Nitecrest Ltd, Leyland

International Trade

2009 Pigott Shaft Drilling Ltd, Woodplumpton

International Trade

2009 Leyland Trucks Ltd

International Trade

2009 Metals UK Ltd, Blackburn

International Trade

2009 GSD (Corporate) Ltd, Preston

International Trade

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LANCASHIREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S QUEENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S AWARDS FOR ENTERPRISE WINNERS 2010 Euravia Engineering & Supply Ltd, Kelbrook

International Trade

2010 Recycling Lives Ltd, Preston

Sustainable

Development

2011 Linemark (UK) Ltd, Rawtenstall

Innovation

2011 MAC Clinical Research Ltd, Blackpool

International Trade

2011 Brighter Future Workshop Ltd, Skelmersdale

Sustainable

Development

2012 Hurst Green Plastics Ltd, Whalley

Innovation

2012 ACDC LED Lighting Ltd, Barrowford

International Trade

2012 BMP Europe Ltd, Altham

International Trade

2012 Colonial Gifts Ltd, Padiham

International Trade

2012 Langtec Ltd, Altham

International Trade

2012 Mr Steve Hoyle

(Mg Dir, Regenerate Pennine Lancs Ltd)

Individual

2013 Rinicom Limited, Lancaster

International Trade

2013 Fort Vale Engineering Limited, Simonstone

International Trade

2014 What More UK Limited, Altham

International Trade

2014 Carradice, Nelson

International Trade

2014 Recycling Lives, Preston

Sustainable

Development

2014 TISS Limited, Blackpool

International Trade

2015 Beaconsfield Footwear Ltd, Skelmersdale

International Trade

2015 Evans Vanodine International Plc

International Trade

2016 Aqua Fabrications Limited, Skelmersdale

Innovation

2016 Fairbanks Environmental Limited, Skelmersdale

International Trade

2016 GA Pet Food Partners, Chorley

International Trade

2016 Linemark UK Limited, Rawtenstall

International Trade

2016 Slingco Limited, Whitworth

International Trade

2017 Greenbank Technology Ltd, Blackburn

International Trade

2017 The Tasty Bone Company Ltd, Blackburn

International trade

2017 Chelsom Ltd, Blackpool

International Trade 67

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MADE IN LANCASHIRE WITH PRIDE AND SUPPLIED

“

TO THE WORLD

Padiham based What More UK Ltd. began life in November 1999 as a plastic household accessories business. With only 15 plastic moulds/ products in the company, it was a tough start. To make it even tougher, nine of those moulds were garden planters. Not much call for garden planters in the UK in November” commented Tony Grimshaw OBE, Director, who continued to explain the company’s outstanding story, particularly with exports. “Within seven years, What More had become brand and market leaders. We are now, utilising our Wham brand name, trading in 71 countries around the world. “Dependent on which

search engine you use, the population of the world is in the region of 7.5 billion. Wham branded products are available to 4.6 billion people. Oh, for the day each one of those people purchase one of our Wham products. “The most asked question regarding our success is ‘How did you get into export?’ The answer is easy, my boss (Andy Holt) told me to. In 2007/8, he made a major investment in new injection moulding machines that increased our capacity vastly. We dealt with all the UK retailers, but even taking into account their growth, there was still a massive amount of capacity left. The only exporting we did at that time, was to the Republic of

Ireland. The boss asked the question ‘How are we going to make use of this capacity, I have so generously provided you with?’, before I could um or even ahhh, he said ‘we are going to export it, let me know what you need’. “A quick call to East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce and another one to UKTI, as DIT was known then, with meetings set up with both before the end of that week. Internal export related courses for all departments were set up, simultaneously a SWOT analysis was carried out and three months later, we attended an exhibition in Frankfurt, Germany. It was February 2009 and we had ten visitors to our stand over

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five days! “From America, New Zealand and Europe, I am pleased to report that within nine months, we had customers based there, and even more pleasing, they are still customers today. “Fast forward to 2014, the proudest moment in our company’s short history, when we were awarded the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade. Every member of our company was flushed with pride. What an achievement. “We had already received local, regional and trade

awards for our exporting activities over the previous five years. These were all well appreciated and gracefully accepted, but a Queen’s Award! “On the day, The Lord Lieutenant of Lancashire arrived at our bunting clad Head Office and made the presentation. A day which will never be forgotten. The pride within the company is still there today and will last for many, many years to come. “From a business point of view, it provided a springboard, both nationally

and internationally. The Queen’s Award logo went on everything, it increased our profile and the demand for our Wham branded products. “About this time, we also purchased machines and moulds from a Bakeware company and the logo went on those products too. “At our exhibitions, people from all over the world came on to our stands and remembering back in 2009, with our first ten customers, we now had 250 visitors. All wanting to know about and be part of the company with the Queen’s Award. “Our success is not all down to the Queen’s Award. It’s also down to investment investment in our production capability; investment in our distribution facilities; investment in our product ranges and investment in our biggest asset, our colleagues. We have the finest workforce in our industry. Lancashire’s finest. “The worrying thing is, the boss has, over the last 18 months, invested a further £8 million on new machines, with a further £3 million earmarked for machines later this year. “I’m dreading the call to his office; do you think they use plastic housewares and metal bakeware on Mars?? Do you think DIT and East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce will have any contacts there?? Will Her Majesty extend the awards’ categories to the Queen’s Award for Interplanetary Trade?” Whatever the future challenges and demands, What More and their team will continue to improve and progress, with the benefits of being a Queen’s Award winner being maximised. The Queen’s Award could not have better ambassadors! 69

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aul Stowers, Acting Regional Director for the North West at the Department for International Trade, discusses the strength of opportunity for Lancashire firms to export to Commonwealth countries. The Prime Minister has identified the UK’s commitment to global free trade as one of her top priorities ahead of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, which takes place in London and Windsor in April. This offers the Department for International Trade (DIT) a unique opportunity to project a truly global Britain with open and free trade at its heart. It will be the largest leaders’ summit the UK has ever hosted with 53 Heads of Government in attendance; an unrivalled opportunity for DIT to build on existing bilateral trading relationships. An audience of business leaders from across the Commonwealth will join the Heads of Government and Ministers to discuss practical ways to enhance trade, showcase investment opportunities and promote sustainable development. April’s summit is a crucial chance to reaffirm the UK’s commitment to the global rule-based multilateral trading system, while using free trade as a powerful tool to help those in the greatest need by sharing the proceeds of global prosperity. There is huge demand

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LANCASHIRE-BASED FIRMS TURN TO COMMONWEALTH COUNTRIES TO EXPORT PRODUCTS AND SERVICES for UK goods and services across the Commonwealth, which has been a longstanding export market for companies in the North West. The total value of exports to major trading Commonwealth countries from the region’s firms increased to £1.462bn in 2016, from £1.44bn in 2015. The UK has some major trading partners in the Commonwealth. Australia, Singapore, Canada and India are among the largest economies in the world, while a number of Asian and African members rank among the fastest-growing. In the last few years, exports to Commonwealth countries have been growing. For example, exports to Australia from companies across the North West rose by 12% to £352m between 2014 and 2016. This shows the growing export opportunity for UK businesses. There are plenty of examples of Lancashire businesses that have benefitted from exporting to Australia and other Commonwealth countries, supported and guided by the North West DIT team. For example, exports have allowed What More UK Ltd in Padiham to grow rapidly - becoming the UK’s largest manufacturer of plastic homeware, gardening and storage products under the brand name WHAM. The company exports to 71 markets including Australia and India. Blackpool-based Chelsom Ltd is one of the leading

designers, manufacturers and suppliers of decorative contract lighting to the international hospitality and marine sectors and has landed prestigious projects in a number of Commonwealth markets. Leyland’s Flexcrete Technologies has also benefited from the UK’s relationship with the Commonwealth including Australia, growing its exports which now make up 40% of the firm’s turnover. It manufactures specialist construction products used globally on many iconic structures and high value infrastructure products, as well as providing maintenance solutions for existing buildings and assets. Specialist manufacturers are also finding huge opportunities in the Commonwealth. One example is Burnley’s Fort Vale Engineering Ltd, which specialises in the precision manufacture of valves and fittings for the transportation of bulk liquids in the tank container, road tanker and rail industries. It trades regularly with Singapore and Australia. Meanwhile, Dantech UK Ltd in Burscough, which develops and manufactures processing equipment for the food industry, exports to many global markets including Australia and South Africa. These markets are also key areas of growth for Scorpion Automotive in Chorley, supplier and manufacturer of vehicle

security alarm systems, mobile communications and telematics for both passenger and commercial vehicles. Shoemakers are finding success in the Commonwealth too. Skelmersdale’s Hotter sells directly to a wide range of markets including South Africa and Australia with launches also planned this year for Canada and India. The firm produces a staggering £2million worth of shoes every day. Finally, in the food and drink sector, Singletons Dairy in Longridge Preston produces a range of British Cheeses with milk sourced within 10 miles of their dairy. It has been exporting for 20 years with 75% of its sales now coming from exports including to Singapore, Canada, Australia and South Africa. These examples show how much opportunity is out there in the Commonwealth. As well as being able to advise on the routes to exporting through our dedicated team of International Trade Advisers in the North West, we also have a network of support staff based in consulates and embassies across the Commonwealth. Firms in the region looking for support should contact 0333 320 0392 or email info@tradenw.org. They can also visit www.great.gov.uk, which gives UK businesses access to millions of pounds’ worth of potential overseas business, helping them start or increase exporting. 71

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evity CropScience, based at Mysercough College, Lancashire, takes an innovative approach to agronomy and their experts are recognised as leaders in increasing yields and crop problem solving. The company, one of Lancashire’s fastest growing businesses, is undergoing rapid expansion into new export markets around the world. Its heavy investment in research and development is now reaping the benefits, with a world class product range that helps farmers produce more and better food, using lower inputs. Levity CropScience has a close relationship with many Commonwealth countries, especially in Africa, where its smart fertilisers have increased the growth, quality, resilience and yield of potatoes, soft fruit, top fruit, cacao, protected crops and leafy vegetable crops. The company offers tailored troubleshooting agronomy advice to growers, since their specialist scientists understand the problems of growers and have created fertiliser products to solve these issues. It is appropriate that in the year that we are celebrating Her Majesty The Queen’s links with the Commonwealth, that Levity CropScience has recently received its first order from Ghana, for its Tropical Albina product, which helps banana growers in the country produce greater yields, following a successful trial. The West African nation of Ghana has 347,000 hectares of banana farms, producing 3.7 million tonnes of bananas a year (and the sector is rapidly expanding). However, it also suffers from Saharan winds that cause stress to crops such as bananas,

LANCASHIRE BASED AGRICULTURAL SME PROUD TO SUPPORT THE COMMONWEALTH

leading to challenging conditions for growers. Tropical Albina has been specifically developed to help the crop maintain growth yield and quality during stress periods and ensures that the plant can better resist attack by fungal diseases like Sigatoka and are more resilient to stressful climates and disease, resulting in increased yields. In West Africa, the banana crops suffer from stress during the Harmattan season, where the weather systems from the Sahara bring dry winds that harm the crop. Tropical Albina performed well in trials there last year and now Levity has commenced shipping its product to banana farms in Ghana and other West African

markets. David Marks, Joint MD, Levity CropScience, observed: “We’re excited to be adding Ghana to our ever-growing list of export countries. Tropical Albina will give growers across Ghana the ability to produce greater banana yields that are resilient to disease and the harsh Saharan winds that sweep across the country. “All of the products are developed by ourselves and engineered to get the maximum quality, life span and yield for users. Levity products are specially designed to help crops excel in dry and challenging climates.” The innovative work carried out by Levity, particularly in export markets, has not gone unnoticed, with the agronomy

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specialist being nominated for a host of awards both at a regional and national level, including three nominations in the 2018 Red Rose awards and two in the Northern Powerhouse Export awards, winning Micro Exporter of the Year. In 2017, Levity launched its products in the United States, Egypt and Jordan and is preparing to launch in a further eleven export markets - across North America, Asia, Africa and the Middle East – in 2018, following completion of product registrations. “Levity is undergoing unprecedented growth” commented Levity’s Joint MD, Anna Weston. “After years of hard work by our research and development team, our

products are now entering new markets and really catching the imagination of farmers around the world, following incredible field trial results.” “Whilst our European sales are still growing, with new markets coming on board in France, our growth outside the EU has been phenomenal” added Levity’s Commercial Director, Mike Peters MBE. “The US market has grown quickly and in the Middle East and Africa, we have Egypt, Ghana and Jordan underway and are preparing to launch in Algeria, Morocco and Saudi Arabia. In Asia, we are negotiating deals for China, India and the Philippines. It is an exciting time for Levity.

“Levity is developing truly game-changing products that make a big difference to the farmers that use them. We have put a lot of effort into proving the performance in independent trials and that is driving demand.” Concluded David: “As the role of the Commonwealth continues to increase, we look forward to developing our links with them, as we have done with Ghana, to ensure our products help with their sustainable agriculture strategies, producing more and better crops, with less resources, in a cost effective, environmentally friendly way.” 73

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UCLAN CYPRUS: THE CAMPUS AT A CULTURAL CROSSROADS

CLan Cyprus opened its doors to the first cohort of students in October 2012 at a new, €53 million University campus situated in Pyla (Larnaca area), offering premium British higher education and quality standards to its students, along with benefits to the wider community. It was the first British University to be established in Cyprus and has accreditation to award UK degrees from the University of Central Lancashire. It has also received its own academic licence to operate as a University from the Cyprus Ministry of Education and Culture. It therefore offers Double Degrees accredited both by the UK and Cyprus. A location for Reunification Pyla itself is in the United Nations demilitarised zone and is the only mixed community of Greek Cypriots (two thirds of the population) and Turkish Cypriots (one third) living together on the island. This makes Pyla a critical location for reunification – proof positive that coexistence, in peace, is possible on the island. Given the campus location, UCLan Cyprus is well placed to be a positive force for cultural and economic regeneration and play an active role in the reunification process. Around 1,000 students from 39 countries are enrolled at the campus across a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, all taught by PhD-qualified,

research-active academic staff from more than 10 countries. This vibrant international mix drives a creative, collaborative and cohesive culture across the campus – a culture to be role-modelled for the island as a whole. The campus employs a Turkish Cypriot bi-communal engagement officer to ensure good relations are at the heart of the campus’ external relations. A civic anchor institution for the Larnaca region, UCLan Cyprus hosts numerous cultural and civic engagements and is frequently used by the Cypriot branch of the European Youth Parliament. The University has organised several events to foster bi-communal relations, including the Pyla Bicommunal Festival and academic conferences with representation from both the Turkish and Greek Cypriot sides. From Pyla to Preston: a strengthening educational connection When the University first opened its Cyprus Campus back in 2012, it became a beacon of progress for both the University’s international strategy and the Mediterranean island’s higher education provision. Five years on and the Pyla Campus has been hailed as an example of educational excellence and is proving to be a key force for change for the country. Its academic standing as a University in its own right has been central to attracting

international students to the campus from across the Southern Mediterranean, Eastern Europe, North Africa, the Middle East and beyond. The Cyprus Campus also plays a central role in the internationalisation of the UCLan student experience in Lancashire. Frequent staff and student exchange programmes have become a regular part of life at UCLan, supported by the panEuropean ERASMUS student exchange scheme and UCLan’s own Travel Bursary. Thousands of UCLan students have already made the journey from Preston to Pyla for an intensive leadership development programme. The connection between Preston and Cyprus was further strengthened when the star of the Pyla Campus football team was brought to the attention of Preston North End Football Club’s Deputy Chairman David Taylor, who is also the Chair of the University Board. David, who was visiting the campus, witnessed Sergios Avraam first-hand and invited him over to England to train with the (then) League One club. The striker trained at the UCLan Sports Arena with the PNE Academy Team (under 18s) for three-and-a-half weeks. The sports science undergraduate, who also stars for Cypriot second division team Elpida Xylophagou, said: “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. To be able to play football professionally is

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a dream come true so I hope I impress the coaches. I’m so thankful to David, the people at Preston North End and the staff at the University for making this happen. “It’s been very interesting and challenging so far but it’s definitely been enjoyable. The coaches and the players have been very friendly and encouraging so I couldn’t have asked for more.” David said: “I’m delighted I had the chance to see Sergios playing while I was visiting our Cyprus Campus. To see him now in Preston making

the most of this opportunity is great. He is a very talented footballer and I’m delighted I could help. UCLan’s Cyprus Campus is one of our best assets and this helps to build further links between us.” The challenges posed by Brexit offer further opportunities to cement the links between UCLan in Lancashire and its Commonwealth cousin. When the UK leaves the EU, UCLan Cyprus will be one of only two UK university campuses remaining in the Union. Research academics at both

campuses are working closely together to ensure that our collective research expertise accesses European Union research funding streams into the future. The special bond between UCLan in the UK and in Cyprus – between Preston and Pyla, Lancashire and Larnaca, is strengthened by our joint Commonwealth heritage. UCLan looks forward to being a force for peace – a force for change in a troubled territory – for many years to come. 75

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akawaste Ltd was formed in 1976 and employs circa 60 staff at its head office and has strategically placed engineers and sales managers throughout the UK. They are the market leader in the manufacture and supply of waste handling equipment. Their bespoke, designed products range from static to portable compactors, vertical and horizontal balers, to waste transfer stations. Based in Preston, Pakawaste offers the largest range of waste handling solutions in the UK and has also been instrumental in several major individual international projects, including developments in Europe (France, Germany, Iceland, Spain, Cyprus, Italy), Middle East (United Arab Emirates, Qatar, KSA, Oman), Far East (India, Malaysia) and USA. In total, Pakawaste has supplied over 8,000 waste handling systems throughout the UK and worldwide. “We supply to a wide range of market sectors, especially waste contractors, recyclers and manufacturers, hotels, facilities management, supermarkets and shopping centres” said David Hamer, Pakawaste Group’s awardwinning CEO. “Our waste handling solutions are so flexible that we also supply hospitals, the pharmaceutical industry, logistics companies, manufacturing industries, educational establishments and many more. “At Pakawaste, we pride ourselves on offering cost effective solutions - from equipment, accessories and

REDUCING WASTE AND HELPING THE

ENVIRONMENT ACROSS THE GLOBE finance to comprehensive after sales maintenance contracts – to enhance our comprehensive range of standard products. These products are supported by our expert, experienced technical team, who can engineer bespoke and turnkey solutions for any waste problems that our clients may be facing.” Reflecting on the future growth strategy of the business, especially with Commonwealth countries, David added: “As our innovative waste handling

solutions become more recognised globally, we believe that our relationships with Commonwealth countries will develop and we look forward to visiting them to secure work on individual projects, which will continue to help protect the environment. “For example, the Pakawaste balers and compactors reduce waste storage and our unrivalled industry experience ensures customers get the solution most suitable and cost effective for their needs.”

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Pakawaste provides solutions that: • Save money - reducing your waste costs by up to 80%. • Save space - reduces total bin and skip requirements by recycling your waste. • Save the environment – by sending less waste for landfill, increasing recycling and reducing the logistics of waste management. • Minimise dangers – by reducing the potential for health and fire risks. • Reduce landfill tax – whilst ensuring the

solution complies with pretreatment legislation. Their creative and technically proficient team has won many awards, including CEO of the Year from Finance Monthly and the Game Changer award. The company complies with all legislation and is accredited to CIWM, UKAS and ISOQAR.

All their innovative maintenance and service agreements, including emergency call out contracts, are handled by Pakawaste’s sister company, Pakawaste Engineering Services Ltd. and their successful rental business, System Rental, operates within the rental market of the waste management sector. 77

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BOOTHS: A LANCASTRIAN

RETAILING LEGEND

dwin Henry Booth borrowed £80 in goods from a Preston grocer who taught him his trade and established a muchloved retailer that would last generations. The 19 year old tea dealer used the loan to stock The China House in Blackpool in 1847. Just three months later, he repaid the debt and made a profit of £50. Since June 1847, five generations of the Booths family have led E.H. Booth & Co. Ltd, from its humble beginnings, with just one small shop, to the present day where the company proudly boasts no fewer than 28 food, wine and grocery stores, in Lancashire, Yorkshire, Cumbria, Cheshire and Greater Manchester. Edwin Henry Booth had one simple aim, to sell the best goods he could buy in shops staffed with first class assistants. Today Booths holds true to our founder’s vision and takes great pride in the quality in the business. Booths has always

been a by word for quality, combining the best of global food with the best of local. The original E H Booth committed to searching for the best goods he could find, and that sourcing ethos based on provenance still rings true today. Booths takes care to develop long, strong relationships with suppliers, which means that customers are able to buy food which is made in the region with care, integrity and pride. Booths has deep roots in Lancashire and is renowned for forging profitable and flourishing partnerships with local growers, bakers, cheesemakers and producers in the county. As the Booths brand has developed over 170 years, the Lancashire supplier base prospered as well. Dewlay cheesemakers have supplied Booths for three generations, and it’s just one of the many family run food businesses that continue to thrive in the county. Latham’s of Broughton have been supplying indulgent desserts

and cakes for Booths for nearly three decades and Brian Ascroft has been supplying vine ripened tomatoes for Booths for 25 years, expanding his production steadily over a quarter century. Edwin Booth, the 5th generation Chairman and CEO said: “Booths is no longer a Northern secret, today we’re a multi-channel retailer bringing a taste of the North to a wider customer base. Our supply into Amazon Fresh delivers hundreds of Booths branded products every day into London and the South East, while Fenwick’s department stores have expanded their range of Booths brand in their Newcastle food hall.” “Working with a team of experienced colleagues who are passionate about what they do is an essential ingredient. While much has changed since Booths opened in 1847 that is something that hasn’t. Booths remains a retailer with a human touch, and that is the key to our continued success.”

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