C&I 29.05

IRISNDT is a leading provider of Asset Integrity Engineering, NonDestructive Testing, Heat Treatment and Laboratory services. This is achieved through investment in training local personnel, continuous development of our facilities and refreshing our equipment to offer the latest in technology and innovations. This is supported by a strong commitment to safety, quality, and the environment.

IRISNDT is a leading provider of Asset Integrity Engineering, NonDestructive Testing, Heat Treatment and Laboratory services. This is achieved through investment in training local personnel, continuous development of our facilities and refreshing our equipment to offer the latest in technology and innovations. This is supported by a strong commitment to safety, quality, and the environment.

IRISNDT are closely supported by our colleagues in Canada, the USA and Australia.

INSPECTION AND TESTING SERVICES

INSPECTION AND TESTING SERVICES

ADDITIONAL SERVICES

• Rope Access

ADDITIONAL SERVICES

• Heat Treatment

• Pressure Testing

• Rope Access

• Welding Inspection

• Heat Treatment

• Materials Laboratory (ISO 17025)

• Pressure Testing

• Welder Training

• Welding Inspection

• Failure Investigations

• Materials Laboratory (ISO 17025)

• Welder Training

• Failure Investigations

CONVENTIONAL NDT

• X-Radiography & Gamma Radiography

• Computed and Digital Radiography

CONVENTIONAL NDT

• Close Proximity Radiography

• X-Radiography & Gamma Radiography

• Ultrasonic Inspection

• Computed and Digital Radiography

• Magnetic Particle Inspection

• Close Proximity Radiography

• Dye Penetrant Inspection

• Ultrasonic Inspection

• Eddy Current & Eddy Current Array

• Magnetic Particle Inspection

• Positive Material Identification (PMI)

• Dye Penetrant Inspection

• Hardness Testing

• Eddy Current & Eddy Current Array

• Ferrite Testing

• Positive Material Identification (PMI)

• ACFM Inspection

• Hardness Testing

• Vacuum Box Testing

• Ferrite Testing

• ACFM Inspection

• Vacuum Box Testing

ASSET INTEGRITY ENGINEERING

IRISNDT are closely supported by our colleagues in Canada, the USA and Australia.

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ASSET INTEGRITY ENGINEERING

• Pipeline Inspections

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• Pressure System Inspections

• Storage Tank Inspections

• Pipeline Inspections

• Category 1, 2 & 3 Inspectors

ADVANCED NDT

• Remote Robotic Inspections – Visual & UT

ADVANCED NDT

• Drone Surveys – Internal and External

• Remote Robotic Inspections – Visual & UT

• Laser Scanning

• Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing

• Drone Surveys – Internal and External

• Time of Flight Diffraction (TOFD)

• Laser Scanning

• Written Schemes of Examination (WSE’s)

• Out of Service and In-Service Inspections

• Category 1, 2 & 3 Inspectors

• Fitness for Service (FFS) Assessments

• AUT & PAUT Corrosion Mapping

• Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing

• Tube Inspection (IRIS, ECT, RFT, NFA)

• Time of Flight Diffraction (TOFD)

• Guided Wave Testing – Long Range UT

• AUT & PAUT Corrosion Mapping

• Engineering Calculations

• Written Schemes of Examination (WSE’s)

• QSR1 – Corrosion Under Pipe Supports

• Tube Inspection (IRIS, ECT, RFT, NFA)

• MFL – Tank Floors and Pipelines

• Fitness for Service (FFS) Assessments

• Maxi-Trak Field Services (Customized Software)

• Engineering Calculations

• Bund Surveys

• Maxi-Trak Field Services (Customized Software)

• Bund Surveys

• Guided Wave Testing – Long Range UT

• QSR1 – Corrosion Under Pipe Supports

• HTHA Inspections (TOFD, TFM, PAUT & TULA)

• MFL – Tank Floors and Pipelines

• HTHA Inspections (TOFD, TFM, PAUT & TULA)

ISO/IEC 17020 / ISO 9001 / ISO 14001 / OHSAS 18001

For all enquiries please TELEPHONE: 01469 575728 | Email: ukinfo@irisndt.com www.irisndt.co.uk

CHATHAM | DERBY | ELLESMERE PORT | HULL | IMMINGHAM

PEMBROKE DOCK | STOCKTON-ON-TEES

04

COMPANY NEWS

A look at what’s going on within industry in and around the Lincolnshire, Yorkshire and the Humber regions.

TRAINING NEWS

Remote working and redundancy support driving growth of tech training business

A training business which helps people take confidence from crises is reporting record growth after steering clients through Covid and economic decline.

WILLIAMSONS SOLICITORS

05

‘We are immensely proud of our reputation’. A clinical negligence expert is one of the new cohort of directors at Williamsons Solicitors

06

HUMBER FREEPORT

Humber Freeport has launched with a mission to drive hundreds of millions of pounds of investment and at least 7,000 new jobs.

09

DECARBONISATION

UK net zero champion visits Humber to hear region’s huge opportunity to create low carbon roadmap

10

Spades in for major investment at East Yorkshire chemical plant

20

CONTENTS

THE GREATER LINCOLNSHIRE LEP

This year the Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership has continued to attract innovation, skills and high-value companies to the area, writes Chief Executive Ruth Carver.

23

TRANSPORT FREIGHT &

LOGISTICS

Logistics UK writes to Minister of State for Transport urging progress on decarbonisation

24

ENGINEERING

Alan Wood & Partners scoop Highly Commended at the CEYH Awards

CONSTRUCTION & PLANT HIRE 25

Port of Hull welcomes new Volvo L150H

BUSINESS FUNDING & SUPPORT 26

ØRSTED 06

11

Ørsted has confirmed that its Hornsea 4 offshore wind farm has been granted consent by the Secretary of State for the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero.

13

EDUCATION

Bridging the Gap Between Junior and Senior School

14. To MAT or not to MAT?… now that is a question.

UNIVERSITY OF HULL NEWS

27

29

Do come along to see what funding may be available to help your business grow

ACCOUNTANCY

New online self-service time to pay facility launched

COMMERCIAL WASTE

The commercial waste service run by a council for more than 25 years

15

06

University of Hull announces new Chancellor

16. Official opening of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence centre at University of Hull

18. University of Hull leading the way in microplastics research

31

CORPORATE HOSPITALITY

Corporate Hospitality Services: Elevating Business Events and Celebrations 32. Celebrating 10 years of Fresco at Humber Seafood Institute

Drax Foundation pledges £1.5m to help UK schools save energy and reduce their carbon footprint

The Drax Foundation, which is the corporate foundation of the renewable energy company Drax Group, has committed £1.5 million this year to help schools install energy-efficient LED lights and solar panels, and deliver energy saving monitoring and education.

The firm, which owns Drax Power Station near Selby, established the Drax Foundation earlier this year to provide grant funding to non-profit organisations in the regions where it operates.

The installation of energy-efficient LED lighting initiative is currently being piloted at the following five schools local to Drax’s operations in England:

• Barwic Parade Community Primary School in Selby

• Kirk Sandall Junior School in Doncaster

• Selby Abbey Primary School

• Triangle Primary School in Sowerby Bridge

• Great Clacton Junior School in Clacton-on-Sea

It is estimated that these schools will save on average £8,600 per year from reduced energy bills, which can then be reinvested back into the school and children’s education.

The full rollout of the LED lighting and solar panel schemes and energy saving and education programme is planned for later this year, with a focus on rural communities and areas of low social mobility, particularly in and around the communities where Drax operates. Schools

wishing to submit an expression of interest should contact drax. foundation@drax.com

Will Gardiner, CEO Drax Group, said: “The Drax Foundation is committed to giving back to the communities where we operate, and the new initiative will provide schools with practical, tangible ways to save money and reduce their carbon footprint. It’s important that children start thinking about these issues from a young age as energy usage and its impact is set to become an increasingly relevant topic in their future.”

Kathy Thompson, Executive Headteacher at Kirk Sandall Junior School, said: “It’s so important that businesses support their communities and this initiative by the Drax Foundation is a really great way to help us save money, especially at the moment when energy costs and prices in general are so high.

CATZERO committed to making lasting positive and personal change

CATZERO is a Humber-wide organisation committed to making lasting positive and personal change to the lives of children, young people, families, and adults. Skilled staff support clients through 1:1 engagement, supporting them to break down the barriers into education, training, and employment.

With an office in Grimsby and the main office close to Hull Marina, the team also run programmes in the Scunthorpe area. Participants on programmes can be families and young people at the point of crisis, Forces’ veterans, and the long-term unemployed.

A distinctive tool for CatZero is its 72-foot Challenge yacht, moored close to the office in

Hull. The boat is used to encourage confidencebuilding, teamwork, and allows participants the opportunity to experience a more structured environment, as well as a sailing adventure!

Of course, CatZero could not do its muchneeded community work without the support of corporate partners, sponsors and funders, and the fundraising team is constantly working with local businesses to find the perfect supporters for the organisation.

As a corporate partner or sponsor there are many package options available to interested parties, with local businesses often keen to contribute towards helping local people. Corporate partners can meet their targets for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) through staff volunteering with CatZero, teambuilding events, and corporate hospitality through taster sails. The sails are exceptionally popular with everyone from significant Humber bank

It also teaches pupils about the impact we have on our environment and how we can act responsibly to save energy.”

The Drax Foundation was launched in March this year to award grants of up to £50,000 for established non-profit organizations.

Organisations and initiatives that meet Drax’s funding and selection criteria are encouraged to visit www.drax.com/community to learn more about the Foundation and submit an initial expression of interest.

employers, such as Arco, J Marr Seafoods Ltd, KCOM, and Beal Homes, to smaller organisations like Jupiter, SCMS, and Andrew Jackson LLP.

Pete Tighe, CatZero’s programme and development manager, said: “Being a partner or sponsor allows people to not only be a part of something special and unique, supporters will make a real difference to local lives. With a 95 percent retention rate across our programmes, CatZero’s work is having a significant impact on the lives of people in need of its services, across the Humber.”

Contact: pete@catzero.org or telephone 01482 333303 for more information. For more about the organisation, see www.catzero.org

CatZero Challenge yacht

A corporate taster sail in the Humber, in May 2023

Planning has been granted for Projekt Renewable to land in Grimsby

Supported by myenergi, RWE Renewables UK and the Town Deal, phase one of this ground-breaking scheme promises not only to celebrate the opportunities presented by sustainable energy production in the area and be a catalyst for the green economic regeneration of the town but also to bridge the gap between industry and community with a summer offering for everyone to enjoy.

With the aim of bringing together Grimsby’s celebrated small businesses this summer in a pop-up style programme of events, Projekt Renewable will ensure this hub of discovery is the centre of attention during the coast’s high season this year.

An immersive educational and cultural destination, Projekt Renewable will be landing –quite literally – in Alexandra Dock within a matter of weeks.

Projekt Director, Richard Askam, added: “It’s taken two years of hard work to get to this stage and now, over the next weeks, we’ll bring Phase One of Projekt Renewable to life. Designed to allow everyone to see and hear the opportunity that already exists in our area but is still largely hidden. It’s time to write the next chapter in Grimsby’s history, and that is as a world leader in renewable energy. A huge thank you goes out to everyone that has been involved and supported so far, especially Richard Dowson (Head of Project Management for Regeneration at North East Lincolnshire Council) who has been instrumental in getting Projekt off the ground.”

North East Lincolnshire Council leader, Cllr Philip Jackson, said: “On behalf of everyone at the council, I would like to thank all the individuals and partners who have had the vision and determination to make Projekt Renewable a reality. The success of our young people will define North East Lincolnshire’s future and we need them to see the opportunities that are on their doorsteps and be inspired to take those opportunities. Projekt Renewable will do just that.”

The driving force behind the delivery of Projekt Renewable is WhiteCrate – the UK’s leading container architecture design and production company. Having successfully delivered many meanwhile projects, pushing the boundaries and perceptions of the humble shipping container and creating destinations and spaces, throughout the UK and Europe; including innovative markets in Altrincham and Wolverhampton, Hatch in Manchester and even the Fan Park at Liverpool FC. WhiteCrate is thrilled to be bringing its experience in destination regeneration to Grimsby.

And while residents and visitors are being urged to soak up the summer programme, local music and pop-up food and drinks vendors that appear, Jon Flowerdew, Managing Director at WhiteCrate Ltd, explains that this is the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the goals, they have set for Projekt Renewable.

“WhiteCrate is incredibly proud to be delivering this transformative regeneration project in Grimsby, as

we work together to create a vibrant new destination,” said Jon. “It is a testament to the vision and dedication of all involved that we are shaping a future where communities can thrive, and where Grimsby can shine a light on its thriving renewable energy industry and the opportunities it creates for the region and the UK.

“This project represents WhiteCrate’s commitment to revitalising urban spaces, fostering economic growth, and creating a lasting legacy and destination that will benefit generations to come.”

The first step in a phased destination project, created to inspire young minds and the local community, the launch and summer programme are just the beginning of what will be an everevolving narrative.

Emma Brigginshaw, Head of Sustainability and Ethics at myenergi, commented: “At myenergi, we are focused on removing the barriers to a greener future. Our mission is a commitment to pioneering a simple transition to renewable energy, so we are passionate about showcasing the benefits of renewable energy and showing people how they can harness these benefits for themselves, to gain greater energy independence.

“We are proud to support Projekt Renewable, which will not only help educate and inspire future talent and the local community but thanks to its facilities, will be able to share this message with a much bigger audience nationwide.”

Guy Middleton, General Manager for the RWE Grimsby Hub, added: “As a founding patron of Projekt Renewable, we are delighted to have reached this important milestone for the project.

“Projekt Renewable is such an important resource for the local region and the wider renewables industry and we are so excited to be a part of it! It is vital that we can demonstrate what the renewables industry has to offer the younger generation and encourage them to consider roles in our industry if we are going to meet our net zero targets.”

Chloe McKeown, Social Media and Marketing Manager at Mockingbird Street Food, said: “This project is something Mockingbird would love to wholeheartedly champion. A celebration of both Grimsby’s rich history and its exciting future within the renewable energy industry, we love the community focus at the core of Projekt Renewable. As a company, Mockingbird are fully committed to all things ‘Great Grimsby’ and it’s fantastic to see the plans in place to raise youth aspirations

within Grimsby and beyond, which will without doubt inspire the next generation of very proud, successful Grimbarians.

“The message that Grimsby and its surrounding areas are cool and accessible, but also aspirational is something we try to regularly promote as part of our brand ethos, and something we are delighted that Projekt Renewable shares.”

The team and patrons supporting Projekt Renewable aim to bring emerging careers in renewables to life with an immersive experience that the community and schools can get deeply involved with. VR experiences and hands-on demonstrations of the jobs available in the Humber ‘energy estuary’ will be housed in the trio of containers, which will also function as workspaces for local businesses and creatives.

The Projekt team is also looking to launch their own Projekt-podcast utilising the on-site studio. Hosted by Richard Askam in the first instance, the podcast will shine a light on those already invested and working within the renewables sector and also showcase how the local community can create user-generated content, powerful in its own right, allowing the people to ‘own’ the space and connect with it on a deeper level.

Officially supported by the home-grown talent that is to be found at RWE Renewables UK, myenergi, North East Lincolnshire Council, the Crown Estate, WhiteCrate, Forrester Boyd, Wilkin Chapman, Knapton Wright, Docks Academy and Mockingbird, the collective vision is for Projekt Renewable to gain national significance.

With the ability to beam into primary and secondary schools and further and higher education establishments up and down the country, but starting with the local area, Projekt Renewable plans on using hand-picked experts in the purpose-built dedicated studio to create their own PRG Studio Content.

Bursting with relevant but exciting content and connecting with schools throughout the full academic year, Projekt Renewable will be bringing the renewables industry alive for school children and the younger generation, educating with purpose and creating UK homegrown talent and the next generation of renewable energy experts.

To read the full version of each of these press releases visit www.commerce-industry.co.uk

Remote working and redundancy support driving growth of tech training business

A training business which helps people take confidence from crises is reporting record growth after steering clients through Covid and economic decline.

Debbie Kuhr-Jones, Director of K2 Training Services Limited, said her workload has doubled from the combination of increased demand for remote training and recurring interest in her long-term specialist area of re-training after redundancy.

Debbie was driven to setting up the business after experiencing redundancy twice herself. In 1998 she lost her job as a typist so used her pay-off to upskill herself while also picking up various jobs to pay the bills and learn about technology.

That commitment led to her becoming training manager at a Hull-based IT company and when that closed in 2007 she decided to go it alone offering specialist Microsoft tuition.

As a one-woman business Debbie provides regular work for two freelance trainers with a client base which includes such major employers as the NHS, a number of global businesses with operations in the East Yorkshire area and her own landlord – The Deep Business Centre in Hull.

As she delivers services to clients as far afield as London, India, Singapore and the United States, Debbie says she noticed two big changes in the use of technology by big businesses as a result of Covid.

She said: “The obvious one has been the use of Teams. Some of my clients are in sectors which never stopped at all during lockdown and they had to have all their training delivered remotely rather than in person in our training suite or at their offices.

“I wasn’t sure it would work because sometimes you couldn’t see the people, just their initials on the screen. It’s important to watch them to make sure they are picking everything up, but we got there. In 2020-21 about 75 per cent of our work was on Teams. It’s still big, but now about 85 per cent has gone back to face-to-face work.”

The second stand-out change has been a stronger commitment by businesses to train their staff. Debbie’s work for The Deep highlights two scenarios.

She said: “We have been doing training for staff at The Deep, filling some of the gaps and training in Excel, Word and Outlook specific to their roles rather than including things that aren’t relevant for them.

“We also trained a chef who wanted to move into a different role and suddenly needed to develop his IT skills to work on things like training plans and product contents, dietary requirements and other procedures and policies.

“The Deep is one of the majority of businesses which have always been serious about training, but elsewhere there were some employees who had never received formal training on computers. It was just assumed that we all knew how to use them.

“If someone’s laptop breaks a company has no qualms about replacing it but when technology changes they rarely show the same commitment to help people use it properly. That changed as a result of lockdown because IT became more important than ever in terms of keeping a business running.”

Support for people losing their jobs has never stopped, and includes building confidence to go with the skills.

Debbie said: “Business has easily doubled since Covid because the demand has been there and the flexibility of the space at The Deep Business Centre enables us to add the extra capacity. We expect further growth because we have a loyal customer base and we secure a lot of business from word of mouth.

“We also still pick up work training people for new roles after redundancy. When I tell delegates about my background I sometimes end up advising them on setting up their own business. I try to encourage them because I know from experience that redundancy does present a big opportunity. The difference is that I had to fund my own training and didn’t receive any additional support from my employer.”

Freya Cross, Head of Business and Corporate at The Deep, said: “K2 Training Services Limited is a great example of a fledgling business which came here with considerable expertise and a lot of contacts but which needed help with premises and reception services.

“It has been a pleasure to support Debbie with that over the last 16 years and to have someone with her skills and knowledge on hand. Debbie is always happy to pop into the back office to help one of the team with a Microsoft issue.”

Debbie Kuhr-Jones, Director of K2 Training Services Limited.

‘We are immensely proud of our reputation’.

A clinical negligence expert is one of the new cohort of directors at Williamsons Solicitors

Fighting for victims of medical negligence has been Wayne Walker’s mission for twenty years. Along with his colleagues, he’s won millions of pounds in compensation for ordinary people whose lives have been devastated through no fault of their own.

As one of the new directors at Williamsons Solicitors, he’s very busy, but his work in helping people extends beyond the office. He is chair of Headway Hull and East Riding in a voluntary role, a charity dedicated to improving life after brain injury, and this year, it’s his turn as president of the Hull Incorporated Law Society where the highlight will be his charity ball in September. You could say work is his life, although he would say it was his calling and he enjoys every minute of it.

Born and educated in Bransholme, Wayne now lives on Hull Marina, a stone’s throw from Williamsons Solicitors’ head offices, but he’s often spotted at the Royal Courts of Justice on London’s Fleet Street where he’ll issue complex, high-value cases which require specialist clinical negligence judges.

His cases are varied and wide ranging in value, from a few thousand pounds into six figures, and are spread all over the country. He often works for families during the inquest procedure where a loved one’s death is related to physical or mental health medical treatment. Also common are cases of delayed or misdiagnosis, pre and post-natal care, incidents involving elderly patients, unnecessary amputations and brain injuries.

Wayne is another example of Williamsons’ commitment to hiring and developing local talent. He joined the successful regional practice in 2015 after working as a paralegal at another local firm, and in less than 10 years is now head of the Clinical Negligence, Personal Injury and Industrial Disease Department along with his new directorship.

He recently settled a spinal stroke case for

£925,000 and has ongoing work with individual cases worth around five to 10 million pounds in compensation. “While it’s always interesting to talk about high profile cases, it’s not all about the money. I get equal satisfaction from helping people with smaller amounts and they are just as important; no matter what the value, people still need answers to the questions surrounding the treatment they have received.

“For example, we’ve just had settlements for a delayed diagnosis of breast cancer and for a lady with dementia who developed serious pressure sores in a care home.”

Wayne says that as head of department and a director, he’ll be working on helping the department of 18 to develop and grow while continuing to give customers a fantastic service which has a ‘national presence, but local feel’.

“We are immensely proud of our reputation which has been earned through our integrity and hard work, and maintaining that will always come first,” he adds.

Founding director Sarah Clubley said that Wayne completed the dynamic new board which would be instrumental in steering future growth while staying true to the firm’s values. “We are approachable and family-friendly, and we all work tirelessly to get the best for clients,” she said.

Humber Freeport launches with ambition to generate huge investment and over 7,000 jobs

Humber Freeport has launched with a mission to drive hundreds of millions of pounds of investment and at least 7,000 new jobs.

The freeport will harness the unique potential and location of the Humber to stimulate economic growth, skills development and inward investment in both established and emerging industries.

Huge opportunities to build on the region’s fast-growing renewable energy industries have already been identified, as well as potential investment in the chemicals, logistics, advanced manufacturing and technology sectors.

Humber Freeport was officially launched at a VIP event at Associated British Ports’ Pump House at Hull’s Alexandra Dock – a stone’s throw from Siemens Gamesa’s wind turbine blade manufacturing facility.

With links both to the region’s rich maritime past and the offshore wind industry, which is

a key part of the Humber’s exciting present and future, the Grade-II listed Pump House provided a fitting backdrop for the official launch of Humber Freeport.

The event, attended by leading figures from the public and private sectors, marked the establishment of the Humber Freeport Company Ltd and signals that the organisation is now fully up and running.

Speaking at the event, Humber Freeport Chair Simon Bird said: “The Humber Freeport has an outstanding and potentially unique opportunity to be not merely a source for economic growth, but the primary vehicle for the delivery of the Government’s levelling up agenda in the Humber.

“Humber Freeport will seek to secure hundreds of millions of pounds of private

Speakers at the launch of Humber Freeport, from left, Michael Green, Head of Freeports at the Department for Business and Trade; Jo Barnes, of Sewell Estates, a key partner in the Yorkshire Energy Park, being developed within the freeport footprint; and Humber Freeport Chair Simon Bird.

Panellists at the Humber Freeport launch, from left, Michael Green, Head of Freeports at the Department for Business and Trade, Humber Freeport Interim CEO Simon Green, and Jo Barnes, of Sewell Estates, take part in a question and answer session chaired by Humber Freeport Chair Simon Bird.

sector investment and the final business case conservatively estimates that such investment will create at least 7,000 new, mostly skilled, jobs.

“This investment will have a transformative effect in lifting the prospects of the region.”

Mr Bird outlined the benefits freeport status brings to companies investing in the tax and customs sites within the Humber Freeport footprint on both banks of the Humber Estuary. Humber Freeport comprises of three defined tax sites – Hull East; Able Marine Energy Park and Immingham, on the south bank of the Humber; and Goole – each of which offers incentives for businesses operating within the zones.

Benefits include land tax relief, business rate relief, enhanced capital allowances and National Insurance contribution relief for employers.

In addition, a new customs zone which has been created at Grimsby will help unlock growth in the car handling and storage sector, supporting the growth of the electric car industry.

Mr Bird said investors also benefit from “assumed permitted development rights to speed up the planning process” and that “when added to being adjacent to high-quality port operations, the offer becomes even more appealing”.

Mr Bird was joined as a speaker at the launch event by Michael Green, Head of Freeports at the Department for Business and Trade.

Mr Green coordinates the department’s work to establish freeports as national hubs for global trade and investment and promote their attractiveness to prospective investors and export markets overseas.

He said: “Freeports represent a generational shift. Inward investment is hugely important for job creation and regeneration and we are looking to build on the UK’s centres of excellence with targeted Government support.

“Humber Freeport will play a key role in decarbonising industry in what is the largest industrial cluster in the UK.

“It will ensure the region makes the most of the unique assets it holds. Being within four hours of most areas of the UK, the size of opportunity here in the Humber should not be underestimated.”

Freeport status will enable the Humber to maximise opportunities from the net zero transition, in offshore wind and other low carbon technologies, creating highly-skilled jobs and driving investment.

As the largest energy-related cluster in north west Europe, the Humber is often referred to as the UK’s Energy Estuary.

Decarbonisation is one of three key workstreams established by Humber Freeport, alongside skills and innovation, and will be a key focus for the freeport’s work.

Humber Freeport will build on significant ongoing investment in the region, including Pensana’s £150m rare earth metals processing plant, now under construction, and plans by Meld Energy to invest £180m in a green

hydrogen production facility, both at Saltend Chemicals Park, east of Hull, which sits within the freeport footprint.

At Goole, Siemens Mobility is investing up to £200m in a rail manufacturing facility, where tube trains for London’s Piccadilly line will be built. The factory is the heart of a growing rail village encompassing manufacturing, servicing and research and development facilities.

Jo Barnes is the Managing Director at Sewell Estates, a key partner in the Yorkshire Energy Park, east of Hull, which is set to be the UK’s first freeport-based energy and technology business park.

Speaking at the launch event, she said: “Securing freeport status is a huge opportunity for the Humber. It will significantly raise the profile of the area to potential end users and investors on the global stage.

“We’ve already got early evidence of this at Yorkshire Energy Park, with our site moving forward confidently and early site works planned for later this year in anticipation of construction commencing next year.

“The benefits are not just financial either. It’s been great to see freeport partners working together for mutual benefit, from commercial partnerships to directing end user interest or working with statutory agencies. We can tell a more coherent story about the area’s potential and the freeport can act as a catalyst for solid and sustainable growth.”

For more information on Humber Freeport, visit www.humberfreeport.org.

Pictures: Neil Holmes Photography.

Chair Simon Bird speaks to VIP guests at the launch of Humber Freeport, which is focused on its mission to drive hundreds of millions of pounds of investment and at least 7,000 jobs.

Michael Green, Head of Freeports at the Department for Business and Trade, speaking to guests at the Humber Freeport launch.

UK net zero champion visits Humber to hear region’s huge opportunity to create low carbon roadmap

The opportunity for the Humber to become a blueprint for whole-region decarbonisation has been discussed at a roundtable featuring UK net zero champion Chris Skidmore MP.

The former Energy Minister, responsible for signing the UK’s net zero commitment into law, visited the region to hear about the progress that has been made to decarbonise industry and transition to a low carbon economy.

The discussion, which took place at Hull’s Centre for Digital Innovation (C4DI), focused on the opportunities and challenges facing the Humber region, its businesses and its people.

It highlighted the importance of focusing on whole-region decarbonisation, supporting small and medium-sized businesses on their net zero journey and ensuring the Humber has the skilled workforce and talent to achieve ambitious targets set by government.

Engaging the public and driving behavioural change was also at the heart of the conversation, as it was acknowledged many people remain unsure on the action they can take to play their part.

The session was chaired by Dr Diana Taylor, Managing Director of place promotion organisation Future Humber, and featured senior figures from leading companies and organisations including Siemens Gamesa, Humber Freeport, Reckitt, Smith+Nephew, Hull City Council and Sewell Group.

Dr Taylor said: “It’s vitally important that, when we talk about net zero, we focus on the region as a whole. We often focus the conversation on big industry, knowing the scale of opportunity that arises for the Humber through industrial decarbonisation, however the net zero transition is something which every business, organisation and person must embark on.

“We have a unique opportunity in the Humber to create a roadmap for whole-place decarbonisation, which can act as a blueprint for both the UK and Europe.”

Central to the roundtable discussion was the Humber’s unique position – both geographically and economically – as a global trade gateway, a world-leading centre for renewable energy and a hub for digital innovation.

The Humber Freeport, which recently formed its board, strengthens that offering and can act as a major catalyst for future investment around net zero.

Simon Green, Humber Freeport Interim CEO,

joined the roundtable event and said: “Within Humber Freeport we’ve got three clear workstreams – decarbonisation, skills and innovation.

“When it comes to net zero and reducing carbon emissions, clearly all three of those streams overlap and interlink. It is when you combine all of those areas that the really exciting developments and opportunities start to happen.

“My message to Government is this … let’s work more closely together to enhance our relationship and unlock all of the benefits this region offers.

“We produce 15 million tonnes of carbon every year in the Humber – it is the second-largest emitter of carbon in Europe. Put simply, if the Humber region does not achieve net zero, then the UK will not either.”

Mr Skidmore was commissioned in autumn 2022 to Chair an independent review into the

Government’s approach to achieving net zero status by 2050.

The report was published in March, and set out the progress which has already been made in the UK and plans for further policy to support business and industry in achieving net zero.

Speaking at the roundtable event, Mr Skidmore said: “Having been responsible for the UK’s net zero commitment signed into law four years ago this week, I am constantly struck by how businesses and industry recognise that this is a unique economic opportunity to deliver regeneration, new jobs and growth in their region.

“This is especially the case for the Humber region, which has long been the shining example of how renewable industries can transform local economies. Hull has a fantastic vision for a net zero future, that demonstrates how if we can empower regions to get on with the job, they will deliver.

“I was incredibly impressed both by the commitment of the businesses I met, but also the detail of the plans that the Humber region has.”

The session was facilitated by Future Humber, whose powerful Bondholder network spans both public and private sectors.

Pictures: Influence Media.

Chris Skidmore MP joined a roundtable discussion in Hull on the potential of the Humber to create a low carbon roadmap for the rest of the UK and Europe.

Participants in the roundtable discussion, from left, Paul Andrews, Smith+Nephew; Jo Barnes, Sewell Estates; Andy Sykes, Siemens Gamesa; Simon Green, Humber Freeport; Cllr Mike Ross, Hull City Council; Chris Skidmore MP, Chair of the Net Zero Review; Dr Diana Taylor, Future Humber; Martin Budd, Hull City Council; and David Lewy, Reckitt.

Spades in for major investment at East Yorkshire chemical plant

The investment, which runs into hundreds of millions of pounds, is in response to demand for SoarnoL™, the company’s brand name for a grade of Ethylene Vinyl Co-Polymer (EVOH) which is primarily used in packaging to extend the shelf life of food.

The ground-breaking ceremony at the company’s Saltend Chemicals Park site, saw more than 40 guests, including project members, company officials and local councillors, witness spades turn the earth. Later in the day, a lid on a barrel of sake was smashed in a traditional ceremony to acknowledge the company’s Japanese ownership and roots.

The new line is expected to be operational by mid 2025 and will create at least 30 direct jobs, with many more in the supply chain.

The Hull facility, which opened in 2002, has seen

a steady and significant increase in demand for SoarnoL as food manufacturers seek packaging with a lower environmental impact that can be recycled.

The innovative product, which is also used in the medical and agricultural sectors, mainly comprises carbon, oxygen and hydrogen, is colourless and odourless and acts as a barrier layer. It preserves flavour and freshness through use in items such as the protective film on ready meals, squeezy sauce bottles, baby food packaging and meat packaging. Other applications include cosmetic products such as cream and toothpaste tubes, plastic fuel tanks, animal feed and underfloor heating.

Managing director Peter des Forges said that the ground breaking marked a new chapter for the company in Hull and represented a significant milestone following a huge amount of work behind the scenes.

“This ceremonial and symbolic celebration is a public thank you for the hard work of our site project team and support of colleagues from the wider business. It also demonstrates our commitment to the area.

“Once the new line is operational, the majority of the increased production will service the needs of our customers in more than 40 countries who continue to explore ways they can reduce waste and meet environmental targets.”

The business was formerly owned by Japanese company Nippon Gohsei, with Hull being chosen as its location due to proximity to the ports and availability of raw materials from neighbouring businesses at Saltend. It became wholly owned by Mitsubishi Chemical Group in November 2016 and changed its name to Mitsubishi Chemical UK Ltd in April 2021.

Construction is starting on a significant new production line which will double capacity at Mitsubishi Chemical UK in Hull.

Picture Caption: Spades in!

From left to right: Tom Duzijn, Fluor; Peter des Forges, Mitsubishi Chemical UK Limited; Hitoshi Sasaki and Manabu Nagano, Mitsubishi Chemical Group.

Hornsea 4 offshore wind farm has been consented

Ørsted has confirmed that its Hornsea 4 offshore wind farm has been granted consent by the Secretary of State for the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero.

The decision marks the culmination of a rigorous process which ensures that the project can deliver a significant source of clean energy for the UK.

Hornsea 4 is the first ever offshore wind farm to be examined alongside a derogation case including environmental compensation.

The Hornsea 4 team is now reviewing the full detail of the Development Consent Order and will continue to work closely with stakeholders and local communities as they look to take Hornsea 4 forward sensitively and sustainably.

A spokesperson for the project added: “Climate change remains a very serious threat to our environment and habitats and there is an ever pressing need to act. We must accelerate the build-out of renewable energy if we are to meet our global climate goals and net-zero targets, as well as ensuring projects deliver longterm value.

“Offshore wind projects such as Hornsea 4 are key to the UK’s energy security and will bring billions of pounds of investment

into the UK, provide low-cost electricity for consumers and thousands of high-quality jobs.

“We’d like to thank everyone involved in the project to date and for all the feedback and comments we have received that have helped shape our proposals.”

Hornsea Two Turbine

BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN JUNIOR AND SENIOR SCHOOL

“A Year 6 curriculum focused on delivering skills that are important for future success, with no formal SAT testing, fosters curiosity for the important journey into Key Stage 3 and beyond”, says the new Head of King’s Magna Middle School at Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate (QE), Joseph Birchall.

At Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate, our mission is for all members of our community to aspire to the Hill Standard ‘To be the best that I can with the gifts that I have’. Our middle school, King’s Magna, sits within our unique four-school model and facilitates Years 6-9 in a way that harnesses individuality through an innovative curriculum to bridge the gap from junior school to senior school.

Mr Birchall said: “At King’s Magna, we are focused on building character and personality and in enabling the core values of honesty, kindness, respect, and determination, ensuring our students grow into good people. Our curriculum is based on delivering the key skills required by students to become successful in their adult lives and we ensure our caring and diverse community allows each student to feel supported through their educational journey with a real sense of belonging not just to King’s Magna but to the whole Team QE.”

QE prides itself on its large enrichment programme of over 100 activities offered year-

round by specialist teachers and coaches. At King’s Magna, students benefit from enrichment classes twice a week within their timetabled lessons. Alongside the core academic subjects, students choose their own options from sports, creative arts, and performing arts, which provides the students access to more of what they are passionate about and gives them more ownership over their education.

At King’s Magna, the crucial decision was made to not assess Year 6 students using SATS testing but instead assess them at three points during the year using standardised and moderated ‘common evaluation tasks’ to track the progress and needs of each individual student within our small classroom set up. Not only has the school found this to best support the students, but also found it creates more opportunity for students to take up any of the abundant enrichment opportunities available, which ultimately provides a more positive student experience and a more well-rounded education.

In Year 7, the school encourages students to

become more independent and take greater responsibility for their learning. This is built upon in Year 8 as students apply for a variety of key roles within the school community such as Prefects, Buddies, Mentors, School Ambassadors and Representatives. Year 9 then focuses on fully preparing students to confidently meet the challenges of the next stage of their educational journey.

At King’s Magna, we equip our students with the skills and knowledge they need to move seamlessly to our College or Faculty schools. We ensure every student is treated as an individual and provided with personalised support. Our innovative pastoral programme, THRIVE@ QE, promotes well-being and resilience with over 30 different sessions each week to ensure every student can grow and mature into their teenage years with confidence.

Visit www.qe.org for more information or book a private tour of our campus, with one of our friendly admissions team. Contact us on admissions@qe.org or call 01423 333330.

To MAT or not to MAT?… now that is a question.

Wilkin Chapman LLP and Forrester Boyd Chartered Accountants hosted an education conference on 28th June at Glanford Park. The firms both discussed the changes in the academies landscape, what we know from Government in terms of the direction of travel, and what the DfE are planning in terms of Academy conversions.

In 2022, there were over 10,000 academies in the UK but 60% of those who have converted are still standalone academies. The government has cancelled the Schools Bill, but the Schools White Paper ‘Opportunity for all: strong schools with great teachers for your child’ still hold principles that the DfE are following. Schools can no longer convert to a single academy status, they must either join a MAT or create one. Time is running out for those schools who have not yet converted. Those who are underperforming (Ofsted graded ‘Inadequate’ or two or more consecutive ratings below ‘Good’) can be forced to join a MAT and the choice of partner will be taken away from them. Meanwhile, the race is on for those not converted or single academies to start to think about what MAT they would like to join.

No-one wants to be the last one being picked for the sports team and the principle is the same here. If you don’t want to have to make do with very limited options, then the time is now to start your due diligence.

Speakers from both sides of the camp spoke of their experiences being a non-academy head and then in control of a MAT.

Whilst there is still scepticism about whether or not the Schools Bill will be reignited, one thing that is clear is that the DfE are pushing forward with encouraging everyone to become part of a MAT.

If you don’t want to be left out in the cold, what do you need to do?

The first thing is to talk to other schools that have joined a MAT. Talk to schools both inside and outside your local authority. How did they find the transition? What do they feel are the benefits? What is it like for them being part of a MAT?

If you are considering joining a MAT, go into it with your eyes wide open. Does the culture fit? Are the ethos and values aligned to yours? If you cannot find a MAT that you have an affinity

with, can you create your own MAT with other schools or single academies that do have an aligned set of values?

It is also imperative that you talk to professionals. Accountants and law firms that specialise in academy conversions have been supporting clients for many years now in the conversion process. They have seen what it takes to make a successful transition, and have seen the warning signs of those that do not, so seek advice and support early on in your process.

Carrie Jensen, partner and academy specialist at Forrester Boyd said during her presentation, “Centralisation of your finances and data is a crucial consideration. Through utilising central resources and systems, there will be a host of efficiencies to be gained. Not only in terms of financial efficiencies, but processes, systems, resources. This will help to create consistency throughout the Academies within a MAT and allow for collaborative approaches in terms of CPD, resources and opportunities for increased efficiencies”

There are so many things that need to be considered, but this is where the professionals are here to help and guide you and relieve a lot of the burden from your shoulders. The key thing however is due diligence. Do your research, communicate with your stakeholders and with other schools. Make an informed decision that all your stakeholders are on-board with and then ensure that you communicate the benefits and opportunities that can be realised from your decision.

If you need help or would like to discuss your options in relation to converting to an academy or joining a MAT, please do get in touch with us. Email: academies@forrester-boyd.co.uk

University of Hull announces new Chancellor

The University of Hull has announced the Right Honourable Alan Johnson as its new Chancellor.

Mr Johnson, a former Secretary of State for Education and Skills, succeeds the Right Honourable Baroness Bottomley of Nettlestone, who announced her intention to step back from the role, which she held from 2006.

An honorary graduate of the University of Hull in 2018, Mr Johnson is a staunch advocate of the University and keen contributor to University and alumni events.

His accomplishments and extensive experience ensure that he will also be an impressive role model for graduates, an engaging and motivational speaker, and a highly credible and influential ambassador for the University.

Professor Dave Petley, Vice-Chancellor at the University of Hull, said:

“I’m delighted Alan has accepted the invitation to join us as Chancellor. Alan has a lengthy connection to the Humber region, serving as MP in Hull West and Hessle for 20 years. His commitment and extensive service to education in the region and nationally are exemplary.

“He is held in very high esteem both locally and nationally for his work in regional development, which is something as a civic University we are also extremely keen to champion and enhance.

“Having maintained firm links with the University over the years, Alan is committed to our future success as a research intensive institution and to supporting us as we build on the student experience so that it is truly exceptional. I’m sure Alan’s rapport with our students will be invaluable and I look forward to his input as we further develop our courses, learning and teaching to ensure our students are career-ready for the 21st century.

“He will be a brilliant advocate for us as we continue to strive to be a strong anchor institution in the region and play our part to drive economic growth and prosperity. I am sure that Alan will also be a strong supporter as we tackle two of the most important challenges

of our generation: environmental sustainability and social justice.

“I would also like to extend my thanks to the Right Honourable Baroness Bottomley of Nettlestone for her commitment and passion for our University over the 17 years in which she served as Chancellor. We are extremely grateful for her support. Her charismatic and inspirational presence at graduation ceremonies and other University events has endeared her to many staff and graduates over the years.”

Mr Johnson is well placed to serve as Chancellor after his commitment to education, the country and the region has seen him hold posts that have included Minister of State for Universities from 2003 to 2004 and Secretary of State for Education and Skills from 2006 to 2007.

Mr Johnson also held significant roles as Secretary of State for Work and Pensions from

2004 to 2005, and as President of the Board of Trade from 2005 to 2006. He was Secretary of State for Health from 2007 to 2009, Home Secretary from 2009 to 2010, and Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer from 2010 to 2011.

Since 2017, he has been the independent Chair of Citycare, a public-private partnership between the NHS and Sewell Group which built and maintains the 15 Health Centres in Hull.

He has also authored three prize winning memoirs and two successful thrillers with a third due to be published next March.

Mr Johnson said:

“The University of Hull has made a huge contribution to British society over its long history and is central to the Humber region’s role at the heart of the renewables revolution today.

“I am honoured to become Chancellor and relish the prospect of helping the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dave Petley, and his team, to make Hull the destination of choice for students across the country and throughout the world.

“Looking to the future, I shall be delighted to be a part of the University’s mission to advance education, scholarship, knowledge and understanding through its teaching and its research and I am inspired to act as both an advocate and supporter of the University’s vision to shape a fairer, brighter and carbon neutral future as it tackles climate change and social justice inequalities – regionally and globally.”

Mr Johnson was installed as Chancellor on July 1. His first engagement as Chancellor will be to confer degrees at the University’s summer graduation ceremonies.

Article supplied by

Right Honourable Alan Johnson

Official opening of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence centre at University of Hull

University of Hull students, staff and guests celebrated all the newest building on campus has to offer at the official opening of the £4.5 million Centre of Excellence for Data Science, Artificial Intelligence and Modelling (DAIM).

British Olympic Association CEO Andy Anson and Bradly Sinden, Team GB’s Taekwondo Silver medallist from Tokyo 2020, joined the celebrations – with Andy joining the line-up of speakers at the event.

can be seen in numerous aspects of our daily lives and in society as a whole.

“The launch of the new Centre is indicative of the University’s intent to provide an

“Reacting proactively to the increasing need for qualified practitioners by delivering a step-change in the provision of educational excellence in data science and AI is at the heart of this new building – and we will

The new facility houses the largest computational teaching space on campus Spread over two levels, it has over 250 computer seats for students to learn, practice, and apply their coding, programming, AI, and data science expertise. The design of the new building offers an immersive, contemporary, and high-quality digital setting whilst keeping its environmental impact to a minimum.

Dr Kevin Pimbblet, Director of the new Centre, said: “The past 12 months has shown how quickly the field of Artificial Intelligence can develop. With some jobs and careers now in danger of being replaced with this technology, let alone the ethical use of it, one thing is for certain: it is more important than ever that the nation has appropriately skilled graduates to be able to understand and navigate the full breadth of the technology underpinning the next industrial revolution.”

Crucially, through knowledge exchange, DAIM’s ambitions encompass the provision of exemplary service within the University, and beyond to the public sector, that will enhance mutual goals and

DAIM will become a portal for business

disciplinary collaborations and external partnerships leading to research and skills outcomes that are of strategic priority to the

Earlier this year, the University of Hull announced that it had been awarded £690,000 to help those underrepresented in the field of AI and data science gain the skills to move into

The funding, from the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) and Office for Artificial Intelligence (OAI) was awarded by the Office for Students (OfS) to universities to deliver

The University was among 30 to be awarded a share of £8.1m, with scholarships being

offered to home students who meet certain criteria.

Successful applicants will receive £10,000 towards their MSc.

Dr Pimbblet said: “This was fantastic news for the University as it aligns with the University’s social justice strategy of supporting disadvantaged and underrepresented students. The award demonstrates the reputation of our Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Science course.”

The Centre has been running a highly successful MSc conversion course since its inception in 2020, supporting hundreds of students to develop their data science and AI skills and progressing them into a wide range of UK industries, including finance, retail, energy, and beyond.

DAIM students cover programming, statistics, machine learning, big data, data visualisation, computer vision and the ethical and legal responsibilities of using data.

Graduates will be able to apply AI and data science techniques to real-world problems, critically evaluate AI and data science methodologies, plan, design and carry out empirical research, and interpret, present and communicate the outcomes of data science and AI solutions.

Exclusive Team GB University Partnership

Now in its fifth year, the University’s partnership with Team GB has resulted in remarkable opportunities for our students, staff, and partner schools and colleges. Students and staff shared in the excitement of this special relationship during the build-up to Olympic Games.

The University is the first and only University to be an Official Partner of Team GB. The exclusive partnership covers a six-year period

and includes the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games and the Beijing 2022 Olympic Winter Games. Team GB triple Olympic Champion Max Whitlock OBE is an ambassador for the University.

In May, Max joined staff and students on campus to discuss mental health as part of mental health awareness week.

Since the partnership was announced in January 2019, a varied range of opportunities has been provided to staff and students –including volunteering, work experience, motivational talks, sports-related benefits, and studying initiatives.

It’s also brought some of Team GB’s most accomplished and inspirational athletes to the University’s campus.

At the heart of the partnership is the ability to benefit from shared information, joint research and enterprise projects. It has also been born out of shared ambitions and beliefs, which are to benefit both parties throughout the collaboration.

Students at the University of Hull have been able to take part in unforgettable experiences that boost their CVs including assisting Team GB with relevant research and real-life business projects. Extensive research continues to be carried out across various disciplines (not just limited to sports) and our students and staff are playing key roles in helping Team GB achieve their short-term and longer-term strategic goals through innovations.

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University of Hull leading the way in microplastics research

Jeanette Rotchell, Professor in Environmental Toxicology in the Faculty of Science and Engineering, looks at one of the many significant threats to our environment – microplastics. The University of Hull is one of the world-leaders in microplastics research – and will continue to drive advances in our understanding of the scale and impact of these contaminants on our health and in our surroundings.

We first started looking for microplastics in mussels. As filter feeders they are often used by scientists to provide a snapshot of the level of contaminants in the marine environment. Our goal was to find out whether the mussels were taking up microplastics from the seawater, where we know levels can be high, as well as via seafood to humans. We found microplastics in every single mussel we tested.

We also went to supermarkets, testing the mussels available to eat. It didn’t matter which supermarket, we found microplastics in all the mussels. This led us to examining various different types of fish and the story was the same – bottom dwellers or pelagic in the water above, it didn’t make a difference, we found microplastics in their gills and digestive systems.

Next we started analysing the air. We conducted a long study inside 20 household’s living rooms, collecting the settled dust and testing the air for microplastics presence once a month. The levels and types of microplastics differed across the households and the time of year, which raised interesting questions about what types of furnishings or cleaning habits resulted in the higher microplastic levels. Moving our sampling and analysis outdoors, our results detected in the Hull and East Riding area air chimed with other studies around the world finding microplastics in London, Shanghai, and Australia.

When sea life encountered microplastics in its environment, those microplastics found their way into their bodies. It was logical to ask the same question about ourselves. To do that, we began collaborating with biomedical scientists and surgeons. When these surgeons operated on lungs, they were able to provide small tissue samples for us to analyse. While conducting this work, we also set up blank

samples which are used to detect and account for any background levels of microplastics that might be floating in the surrounding air and contaminate any samples we wanted to analyse. We found microplastics in all the human lung tissue samples, and in our next experiment, in a number of human vein samples. We’re in the process of testing blood and urine.

So what? We spend our lives breathing and eating dust and countless tiny particles which don’t seem to do us much harm. There are two answers to this question, both concerning in their own ways.

The first answer details the dangers that we do know, or at least suspect – specifically, inflammation and chemical leaching. Inflammation can be especially hazardous if it exacerbates existing conditions. Take chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) as an example. COPD is a condition that causes shortness of breath, frequent chest infections, and a persistent cough. It can be life limiting and cannot be cured or reversed. Inflammation makes this regression worse and, remember, we found microplastics in the air we breathe and each of the lung samples we analysed. Similarly in China, preliminary research has connected microplastic levels to inflammation and irritable bowel type conditions.

Chemical leaching happens when the added chemicals involved in plastic production migrate into the tissues around them. Our research found that the several of the microplastics detected contained chemical additives, some of them known to be toxic. In human lung samples, we found PTFE, better known as Teflon, which is one of the “forever chemicals” as it is extremely slow to break down. We have no information yet on the levels of these chemicals that are leaching, but, in nature, we’ve found that even very low levels of such chemicals cause hormonal changes in fish, causing conditions such as intersex where fish develop both eggs and sperm rather than one or the other.

answer. We know far too little about the scale of this problem. As far as we know, microplastics are everywhere, but we don’t know how harmful they are to humans or the environment, which types may have the most significant impacts, and how to effectively mitigate those impacts.

We need to stop facing this microplastics dilemma blind and there are two steps we can take right now fix it.

The first is to improve the quality of our analysis, making it more robust, and moving towards standardised methods. Most current analyses don’t include a blank control – given what we know about the ubiquity of microplastics all around us, we can’t make reliable findings about microplastics without considering those already around us which are highly likely to contaminate any analysis. Blanks allow us to make allowances for this and have more confidence in the results when microplastics are then observed. The initial analyses of microplastic impact on humans also have a repeating flaw. When conducting experiments on microplastics in cells within tubes or petri dishes, many researchers have used a shape of microplastic that essentially looks like a tiny ball. The problem is that

most microplastics we’ve found in humans and mussels are not perfect balls, they are more like shards, with irregular, worn shapes, which have a very different impact on cells. If you can’t visualise the difference, imagine swallowing a whole grape vs a piece of uncooked spaghetti.

The second step needs more than academics. We need policy makers, governments on board. We need to actively monitor and regulate the levels of microplastics in our air and water. This is already starting at other points around the globe. In California, the Water Board authorities that look after the water supply have started to use monitoring methods to look at the levels of microplastics in the water. The UK, by contrast, despite some recent, high profile, waterway contamination events, has made no such progress as yet.

Human microplastic contamination could be insignificant, it could be seriously impacting us, or it could be somewhere in-between. We just don’t know. And until we start seriously and robustly analysing the levels of microplastics in our environment and bodies, and how it impacts us, we will continue to be the subjects of an experiment over which we have little control.

All of this should be taken with a pinch of salt – this is preliminary research and there’s been no robust studies yet on the actual impact of microplastics in humans. Which brings us on to the second, more worrying,

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THE GREATER LINCOLNSHIRE LEP

FOCUSES ON INNOVATION

This year the Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership has continued to attract innovation, skills and high-value companies to the area, writes Chief Executive Ruth Carver.

Despite ongoing national and global challenges, we are confident in the strength of our game-changing sectors (UK Food Valley, Humber Freeport, defence and security, and green energy) to help build a stronger economy for Greater Lincolnshire and overcome universal issues such as climate change.

DIRECTORS

It was announced in March that Professor Neal Juster, Vice Chancellor of the University of Lincoln, had been chosen to lead the Greater Lincolnshire LEP as its new Chair.

He has replaced Pat Doody, who stepped

down after serving three years as Chair and eight years as a board director.

Neal Juster has a deep knowledge of the engineering sector which will be an advantage as we promote and strengthen the manufacturing and engineering heritage of Greater Lincolnshire.

Four new non-executive directors have also joined the LEP Board, drawn from the private sector and third sector:

Liam Scully, CEO of Lincoln City FC

Shaun Povey, Head of Strategic Planning & Projects at Siemens Energy

Nikki Cooke, CEO of Lives

Mark Webb, CEO of E-Factor

Prof Neal Juster: Professor Neal Juster, Vice Chancellor of the University of Lincoln, became Chair of the Greater Lincolnshire LEP in March 2023.

Defence Network launch

The Greater Lincolnshire Defence and Security Network was launched at the International Bomber Command Centre in Lincoln in September 2022.

UK FOOD VALLEY

Since its launch in 2021, the UK Food Valley has been supporting the growth of the food industry and promoting major investments in production, skills, innovation, low carbon and technology.

The launch of the South Lincolnshire Food Enterprise Zone (FEZ) in September 2022 was a big step forward for the future of food production and represents over £16m investment to support Greater Lincolnshire’s agri-food sector.

We have also secured over £100m of new partnership R&D projects with the food and farming industry, involving 200 partners working on over 110 innovation projects.

It was announced last autumn that the UK Food Valley has committed to promoting the cluster north of Lincoln as the Agricultural Growth Zone (AG Zone) and work continues on this.

SKILLS BOOTCAMP

In September 2022 we were awarded £820,000 to fund the delivery of news Skills Bootcamps on behalf of the Department of Education, as part of Wave 3 of the scheme.

Skills Bootcamps are free, flexible courses of up to 16 weeks which give participants the opportunity to build up sector-specific skills, helping them to get a new job, or to progress within their current job.

A variety of courses were available during Wave 3 across multiple sectors including food and drink, transport and healthcare.

In March it was announced that the Greater Lincolnshire LEP will receive a further £2m in funding as part of Wave 4 of the scheme and we are developing a new wave of Skills Bootcamps in partnership with Lincolnshire County Council.

GREEN ENERGY

Climate change has become a global issue and the UK government has set the UK a target to reach net zero emissions by 2050. Positioned geographically and strategically as we are, clean energy is a big opportunity for Greater Lincolnshire.

The low carbon and energy economy is worth £1.2bn in Greater Lincolnshire and has a lot of potential. With a private investment level of £60bn over the next fifteen years, major opportunities exist in offshore wind alongside decarbonisation and hydrogen and carbon storage projects.

The Humber is the UK’s Energy Estuary, home to two of the UK’s six oil refineries and the second largest chemicals cluster, and it is also leading the way in emerging green technologies that will power the future.

Over the last few months we have welcomed seven new members to the Energy Council and we have now begun to develop a programme of work which will support the energy ambitions of our region.

HUMBER FREEPORT

In March 2023 the Humber Freeport received government approval, allowing it to progress its ambitious vision resulting in the creation of up to 7,500 jobs and over £4bn of private investment.

This announcement is the result of a substantial amount of hard work and commitment from all our partner organisations and companies, and we are very proud that our clean energy cluster now boasts:

• innovative energy-to-waste plants

• over 20 operational onshore wind farms

• the country’s pre-eminent centres for offshore wind turbine blade manufacture, assembly and installation

• a leading global hub for offshore wind O&M at the Port of Grimsby

• various investments in hydrogen and other renewables

This development will have a significantly positive impact on the region with the creation of new jobs, the further development of the industrial supply chain and the recognition that the Humber’s assets are of huge value to the UK.

This year the LEP has been working to create a nationally recognised cluster of innovationfocused companies in the defence and security sector.

There are more than 80 companies locally already operating directly in this sector, employing 10,000 to 12,000 people.

After the launch of the Defence and Security Board last year, we have now also successfully launched the Greater Lincolnshire Defence and Security Network. We have a realistic ambition to grow this to a scale that we can bid to the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA).

Our aim this year is to attract new businesses to Lincolnshire, formally establish a cluster with MOD and attend DSEI, an internationally important event.

DEFENCE PODCASTS

This year we are proud to have launched the Greater Lincolnshire LEP podcast series to bring you news and views across our economic priorities for Greater Lincolnshire and Rutland.

So far there have been two episodes focusing on the next generation of leaders in the food sector and the importance of school careers teams collaborating with local businesses. We are excited to continue this series discussing important topics in a variety of sectors, and the next podcast will focus on defence and security.

UK Food Valley

The UK Food Valley aims to promote high-tech innovations in food and farming such as robotic fruit pickers like Thorvald.

Podcasts: Jen Vincent (left) from Engineering North Lincolnshire University Technical College in Scunthorpe and Hayley Beardmore, an Enterprise Adviser at the LEP, took part in one of the LEP’s new podcasts.

Logistics UK writes to Minister of State for Transport urging progress on decarbonisation

Logistics UK has today (29 June 2023) written to Minister of State for Transport, Jesse Norman MP, to call for the urgent publication of the Low Carbon Fuels (LCFs) strategy as well as a closer partnership between government and industry to navigate the transition to a greener economy, in a way that is cost efficient for the sector, its customers and taxpayers.

Kate Jennings, Director of Policy at Logistics UK commented:

“The logistics industry is working hard to meet vehicle phase out dates and emission reduction deadlines however government plays an integral role in this and must meet deadlines they have set themselves. The Low Carbon Fuels (LCFs) strategy is now six months late and this, together with concerns over the pace of electric vehicle infrastructure and zero emission freight trials, is inhibiting private sector investment. Costs are a key concern across all sectors of the economy, and businesses are reluctant to invest without a clear strategy that outlines how cost, supply and infrastructure challenges will be addressed. It also remains unclear whether government is viewing LCFs as a transitional tool or if they will have a long-term role to play.”

The letter follows a parliamentary roundtable on decarbonisation held earlier this week, organised

by Logistics UK and hosted by Greg Smith MP. It also calls for a halt to proposed changes to the Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHGP) and greater progression on the Zero Emission Road Freight demonstrator.

Ms Jennings continues:

“At the parliamentary roundtable, industry highlighted how vital a strategic partnership is with government to deliver a fair transition to a green economy. Members also raised significant concerns over adding costs to customers if decarbonisation is not delivered efficiently. Industry fully recognises the role it has to play to achieve decarbonisation but sufficient support must be in place to ensure it is achievable and does not push prices up on the shelves.”

Greg Smith MP commented:

“Despite a monumental push towards battery electric, the real future of fuel is not written yet. The way we de-fossilise

is up for grabs and low carbon fuels and synthetic fuels must be part of that. We look forward to continuing to engage with industry on the subject to drive forward positive change.”

Logistics UK is one of the UK’s leading business groups, representing logistics businesses which are vital to keeping the UK trading, and more than seven million people directly employed in the making, selling and moving of goods. With decarbonisation, Brexit, new technology and other disruptive forces driving change in the way goods move across borders and through the supply chain, logistics has never been more important to UK plc. Logistics UK supports, shapes and stands up for safe and efficient logistics, and is the only business group which represents the whole industry, with members from the road, rail, sea and air industries, as well as the buyers of freight services such as retailers and manufacturers whose businesses depend on the efficient movement of goods.

Credit Logistics UK

Alan Wood & Partners scoop Highly Commended at the CEYH Awards

The Constructing Excellence Yorkshire and Humber Awards on July 6th proved to be a memorable evening, as Alan Wood & Partners had the pleasure of receiving a Highly Commended Award for their remarkable contribution to the Hull Minster’s ‘Amazing Transformation’ project.

In 2012 the Client engaged AWP to provide project management services on an ambitious journey of restoration, preservation, enhancement, and redevelopment. Over the course of nearly a decade, our responsibilities expanded to include principal designer, geotechnical investigation and reporting, temporary works, and civil and structural design.

The primary objectives of the ‘Amazing Transformation’ project were to restore the Minster’s central position in the Old Town, reconnect with the local community, and transform it into a sought-after visitor destination.

The vision entailed reordering the church to create a remarkable and adaptable space, equipped with high-quality amenities, suitable for performances, exhibitions, banquets, and

various events. External improvements allowed for the reation of high quality public realm areas, featuring new paving, street furniture, enhanced lighting, and the installation of fountains. Latterly a beautiful extension was added to house The Trinity Room café.

The project holds immense pride for us, as it exemplified true collaboration among the client, design and construction teams, as well as an extensive supply chain, many of whom are Hull & East Riding companies.

We are overjoyed with the project’s outcomes, and the significant increase in visitor numbers is a clear testament to the realisation of our client’s goals. Once again, the Minster stands as the heart of Hull’s Old Town, and we couldn’t be happier to have played a part in it.

Port of Hull welcomes new Volvo L150H

Associated British Ports (ABP) Port of Hull welcomed the delivery of a new Volvo L150H to its dry bulk handling facility North Gap.

Part of ABP’s ongoing investment to improve the infrastructure across the Humber Ports’ the new shovel is more efficient than the former G-series, achieving up to 15% greater fuel efficiency, thanks to its powerful engine, second generation OptiShift and new dry P-Brake.

The Port of Hull plays a valuable role in supporting agricultural markets all year round. Its North Gap terminal handles a range of agribulk cargoes such as cereals, pulses and oilseeds which goes into making beer, flour, and breakfast cereals. Along with biomass which is used as fuel.

ABP’s network of 21 Ports handles over 4 million tonnes of agribulk each year. Experienced and

multi-skilled Port Operations Teams work ensure cargoes are handled safely and efficiently for customers using state-of-the-art equipment.

Simon Bird, Director Humber, said: “ABP has been making significant investments to improve efficiency and lower our carbon emissions across the ports plant and equipment for many years. This drive has been led not in isolation, ABP’s customers want to support sustainable supply chains.

ABP has great ambitions for British trade, making the most of the opportunity afforded by creating a cleaner and greener economy of the future. This year ABP set out its plan to invest a further £2 billion in decarbonising our operations by 2040 at the latest and in major infrastructure projects to enable the wider UK energy transition.”

The Humber Ports are home to solar arrays mounted on the rooftops of warehouses. Providing 29% of the port’s energy requirement, plans are being made to compliment solar energy generation with onshore wind on the Port Estate.

ABP’s ‘Ambitious for Britain’ frames how ABP is enabling the UK clean energy transition and catalysing growth in coastal communities and industrial locations across Britain.

| www.abports.co.uk

Article and image courtesy of ABP Humber

ABP’s new Volvo L150H at the Port of Hull

BEGIN OR GROW YOUR BUSINESS

BEF is the Business Support Partner for Start Up Loans in Yorkshire and The Humber, and the North East.

A Start Up Loan is a personal loan for business purposes for a term of 1 to 5 years at a fixed rate of 6% per annum. It is designed to support a business that is within its first 36 months of trading. Applications must be aged 18 or over at the time of the application. A credit check will be completed.

• Borrow up to £25k per owner/partner (4 maximum)

• Our average loan size is £11k

• 12 months of free mentoring • No arrangement or early repayment fees

0800 080 3145

E: info@befund.org

W: www.befund.org

Do come along to see what funding may be available to help your business grow

Hull and East Yorkshire Local Enterprise Partnership’s (HEY LEP) Investment Programme Team is hosting an event for businesses in the East Riding of Yorkshire to discover existing and new funding opportunities.

The event targets SMEs in the East Riding and will provide information on both the Growing Places Fund, the Made Smarter Programme and additional Business Support available.

There will be an opportunity to have one-to-one discussions with members of the Investment Programme Team, Business Support Advisors from ERYC, The Made Smarter Team, as well as a presentation by Leon McQuade from Think Cloud about AI in Business. They will also be joined by Innovate UK Edge.

Leon will give a presentation about the opportunities for businesses to learn how digital adoption in businesses could contribute to cost savings, increased productivity and economic growth, through the implementation of digital technology.

Alison Lacey, Investment Programme Officer at HEY LEP, said: “This session is a great opportunity

for local businesses to find out ways in which they can be supported, both through funding and through tips and advice.

“We look forward to welcoming them and hopefully see them flourish as a result.”

Date: 27th September 2023

Venue: Wold View Farm, York Road, Driffield YO25 3BG Time: 8am – noon

If you would like to attend or have any queries about how the Growing Places Fund can help with a grant or loan, please contact: Alison Lacey on 07496 315038 or email: a.lacey@heylep.com, or Jacquie Newman on Jacquie.Newman@ heylep.com or 07876 347286.

You can book your place here https:// www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/are-youan-sme-in-east-yorkshire-lookingfor-capital-investment-tickets677263151317?aff=oddtdtcreator

New online self-service time to pay facility launched

The HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has announced the launch of an online self-service “time to pay” facility. This innovative solution is designed to empower VAT registered businesses, enabling them to exercise greater control over their cashflow, particularly when faced with a significant VAT liability that poses challenges to timely payment.

Traditionally, a business encountering difficulties in settling their VAT liabilities could call HMRC, and after passing security questions, could set up a “time to pay” agreement providing they meet the criteria. However this process was very often frustrating as HMRC placed restrictions on the number of repayment months, and their rulings were not consistently applied.

The introduction of the HMRC’s self-service “time to pay” online platform means the process should be much smoother and less stressful for businesses.

To qualify for the online self-service option, businesses must fulfill the certain conditions:

• The latest VAT return has already been filed

• The amount owed to HMRC is £20,000 or less

• Application is made within 28 days of the deadline

• Business doesn’t have another active time to pay agreement or any other debts with HMRC

Under the online process a business can establish a repayment term of up to 6 months, provided they meet the specified conditions. Businesses can set up the agreement by following the link here and logging into their government gateway account. https://www.access.service.gov.uk/login/signin/ creds

If you have any outstanding VAT Returns or a balance over £20,000 HMRC will confirm that you are ineligible upon logging in. Otherwise HMRC will

take you through a series of pages and questions before you can agree a payment plan.

The introduction of this online self-service “time to pay” facility aligns with HMRC’s ongoing efforts to simplify and digitise their services, as they strive to enhance communication with taxpayers. However, it is important to note that this shift excludes agents, such as ourselves, from setting up time to pay arrangements on behalf of their clients. Nonetheless, we can continue to offer advice on utilising the facility and remain available to discuss any cashflow forecasts or issues.

If you would like to talk to Forrester Boyd about how we can help with your business finances and accountancy needs, then do get in touch. info@ forrester-boyd.co.uk

The commercial waste service run by a council for more than 25 years

One of England’s top councils for recycling – sending no waste to landfill

The commercial waste service run by East Riding of Yorkshire Council has been running for more than 25 years.

The team operates a weekly waste collection service for nearly 4,000 business customers across the East Riding, including local shops, offices, restaurants, schools, leisure centres and caravan parks.

East Riding of Yorkshire Council is one of the country’s top performers when it comes to recycling waste.

The authority in recent years achieved the highest recycling rate in England for domestic waste for three years running and has been honoured with a number of national awards for being environmentally friendly.

Our commercial waste service builds upon those award-winning achievements, offering a topquality service with a high standard of recycling.

The team prides itself on offering a professional service, with flexible, transparent pricing with no hidden costs.

Our friendly approachable team are based in Willerby near Hull, with depots in Carnaby, Hedon, Goole and Market Weighton. Covering the entire East Riding area, our refuse collectors are out on the road five days a week.

There are six dedicated trade vehicles collecting general waste weekly – and the council’s fleet of domestic vehicles collect recyclable waste from customers on a fortnightly basis.

around 1,000 tonnes a month. Almost 1,000 tonnes of recyclable material are also collected each year.

As well as collecting general waste, recycling and clinical waste, the team also offers an event waste collection service.

Sarah Oliver, the council’s commercial waste manager said: “We are on hand to give impartial advice and support to any client, and we like to think our services can be tailored to any businesses’ needs – being environmentally friendly is key to all our services.”

In the year 2022 to 2023, the team collected more than 12,000 tonnes of general waste,

The team has previously been awarded waste collection contracts for big local events including Driffield Show, the largest event held in the East Riding.

For more information, to find out more about the flexible service and easy payment plans, visit the website at www.eastridingbusinesswaste.com, email business.waste@eastriding.gov.uk or call the team on 01482 395580.

Some of the green general waste and blue recycling bins which can be supplied to businesses.

The council’s waste collection vehicles near the Humber Bridge.

The commercial waste collection service at work.

“We are on hand to give impartial advice and support to any client, and we like to think our services can be tailored to any businesses’ needs – being environmentally friendly is key to all our services.”

DONCASTER CUP DAY

FRIDAY 15 SEPTEMBER

Commerce and Industry are giving you the chance to WIN a table for 2 in the prestigious Sky Garden Restaurant at the Betfred St Leger Festival. The Sky Garden is the most prestigious restaurant at Doncaster Racecourse and offers spectacular views of the track, parade ring and the winning post. Situated on the top floor of the Eco Power Stand, the Sky Garden offers an immersive experience of fine dining and premium beverages in a magnificent botanical surrounding.

YOUR PRIZE INCLUDES:

2 Hospitality Tickets and Badges, Arrival Champagne and Canapes, 7-Course Tasting Menu with accompanying Flight of Wines, Inclusive Pommery Champagne, Prosecco, Premium Spirits, Wines, Ciders, Beers and Soft Drinks, Professional Tipster, Racecard and a Private Balcony

TO ENTER e-mail your full name and address to graphics@waltonspublications.com and put COMMERCE23 in the subject line.

For more information on hospitality packages: doncaster-racecourse.co.uk or call: 01302 304200.

Terms & conditions. The competition closes at midnight on Thursday 31st August, 2023. Any entries received after the competition has closed will not be entered into the draw. The prize is a pair of tickets and hospitality badges for Friday 15th September, 2023, Arrival Champagne and Canapes for 2 people, 7-Course Tasting Menu with accompanying Flight of Wines, Inclusive Pommery Champagne, Prosecco, Premium Spirits, Wines, Ciders, Beers and Soft Drinks, Professional Tipster, Racecard, Private Balcony and Car parking. Tickets are non-refundable, non-transferable and have no cash value. All tickets are e-tickets and will be e-mailed to the winners ten (10) days before the event. Please visit www.doncaster-racecourse.co.uk to check gate and race times, dress codes and entertainment.

Corporate Hospitality Services: Elevating Business Events and Celebrations

In the world of business, creating meaningful connections and fostering relationships are crucial for success. To achieve this, companies often rely on corporate hospitality services that provide a platform for conferences, meetings, networking events, training sessions, and even festive celebrations like Christmas parties.

These services offer businesses the opportunity to host events in impressive venues or indulge in thrilling experiences like horse racing hospitality events and corporate racing days out on local race courses. Let’s explore the benefits and possibilities that corporate hospitality services bring to the table.

Conferences and Meetings: Setting the Stage for Success

Hiring a suitable venue is a vital aspect of hosting successful conferences and meetings. Corporate hospitality services offer businesses the opportunity to impress clients, partners, and employees by selecting prestigious locations like the MKM Stadium in Hull. With state-of-the-art facilities and a range of event spaces, this stadium provides a professional atmosphere conducive to meaningful discussions and impactful presentations. The combination of impressive surroundings and top-notch amenities creates a memorable experience for attendees and strengthens business relationships.

Networking Events: Forging Connections

Networking is a powerful tool for businesses to expand their reach and cultivate valuable

connections. Corporate hospitality services provide businesses with tailored networking events that promote interaction and collaboration. These events allow professionals to engage in meaningful conversations with like-minded individuals, establishing partnerships, and expanding their network. The Buttercross suite at Stallingborough Grange offers versatile spaces where professionals can meet, exchange ideas, and build fruitful relationships in a relaxed yet professional setting.

Training and Development: Nurturing Talent

Investing in employee training and development is essential for fostering a skilled workforce. Corporate hospitality services offer businesses the opportunity to host training sessions in unique and inspiring environments. By stepping away from the office setting, employees can focus on learning and development, free from distractions. They provide an ideal space for interactive workshops, seminars, and training programs, helping businesses nurture their talent and drive success.

Christmas Party Nights: Celebrating the Festive Spirit

The holiday season is an excellent time to reward employees for their hard work and

celebrate achievements. Corporate hospitality services offer businesses the chance to organize unforgettable Christmas parties that leave a lasting impression. With exquisite dining options, entertainment, and festive decorations, businesses can provide their employees with a memorable night of celebration, fostering team spirit and boosting morale.

Horse Racing Hospitality Events: Thrilling

Experiences

For businesses looking to create unique experiences and entertain clients, horse racing hospitality events provide an exciting option. Whether it’s a day at the races or a corporate racing day out on the track, these events combine the thrill of the sport with luxurious hospitality. Attendees can enjoy fine dining, exclusive access to premium facilities, and even behind-the-scenes experiences that add an extra layer of excitement to the day. These events offer businesses the opportunity to strengthen client relationships while creating lasting memories.

By investing in corporate hospitality services, businesses can leave a lasting impression on clients, partners, and employees, ultimately driving success in today’s competitive business landscape.

Celebrating 10 years of Fresco at Humber Seafood Institute

Having made it through all of the challenges that many businesses have faced in recent years, such as covid-19 and cost of living crisis, Fresco café are celebrating 10 years of service at Humber Seafood Institute.

opportunity to open a larger one at Humber Seafood Institute, where there is plenty of office and on-site workers who would enjoy a lovely reasonably priced lunch.

A few of their delicious menu options include jacket potatoes, paninis, sandwiches and wraps with a variety of fillings, fish and chips on Wednesdays and Fridays, all day breakfast and breakfast buns, the list goes on.

For the past 10 years, Fresco has been providing breakfast and lunch for the people who work in and around the Europarc, changing up their menu daily to cater to everyone’s fancy. They even have loyal customers who have been going there ever since it’s opened!

Fresco first opened when owner, Carol Fanini, had a vision for the space. Having already owned another café in the area, Carol saw the

One of their best-selling items is the full English breakfast wrap, which is filled to the brim with all of the elements that make up a traditional great British fry up, what’s not to like?

Fresco supervisor, Clare Hand, said, “I am proud to be able to say that we have made it through all this time and managed to become an established business. It’s an achievement in itself to have made it through the lockdown period and with the prices of food at the moment it’s great that we’re still able to provide good food and a convenient service to the area.

“We do our best to keep our prices low as we are aware that a lot of people are struggling at the moment, this is what we are most proud of and I hope it continues this way for years to come.”

A big congratulations to Carol, Claire and all of the staff at Fresco, on their 10-year anniversary with Fresco, we hope to see the café progress for many more years!