Bristol Business Post Edition 11

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Edition11 The South Wests Leading Business & Lifestyle Publication

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The provenance of the food we eat and its wider global implications is becoming increasingly important to us all. We all prefer our food to be fresh, local and additive free, and where possible, organic and free range. Lettuce and Lovage was set up by Jo Trendall, a Bristol-based restaurant-trained foodie, with this in mind, bringing restaurant quality food to outdoor catering events, using only the freshest produce sourced from conscientious local suppliers. Since its inception in January 2009, Lettuce & Lovage has been identified by The Soil Association as a caterer who is committed to using local, seasonal and unprocessed produce – resulting in the association’s highest ‘Gold Food for Life’ catering Award, for their seasonal menus. Working with a group of young chefs who between them have

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TEL 0121 457 4810 EMAIL sales@heronpress.co.uk WEB www.heronpress.co.uk

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over 30 years catering experience, they are all equally passionate and creative about quality. They love raw ingredients and take pleasure in creating delicious, original dishes. So whether it is a wedding buffet, champagne and canapÊs, BBQ, Hog Roast, a full six course, formal dinner for 100 guests or a more intimate occasion; they take great pleasure in creating dishes for all tastes, and enjoy sitting down with their clients and discussing their dietary requirements. They will tailor a unique menu for you, one that will add to your special day and be remembered by all your guests. Whatever your event; big or small, corporate or private, Lettuce & Lovage can provide everything you need with professionalism and dedication. Telephone on 0117 985 6767 or visit the web site www.lettucelovage.co.uk for more information and menu examples. Lettuce and Lovage’s awesome food & service can now be found at their new riverside cafÊ and restaurant in the heart of the Somerset Levels in Bow Street, Langport. Set in a grade 2 listed converted warehouse, it an ideal venue for weekend brunch with friends, lazy afternoon coffee, a weekday business lunch or dinner on weekend evenings.

Office: 01179 856767 Cafe: 01458 254354 Visit: www.bowwharfcafe.co.uk

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C O N T E N T S

Bristol Business Post Welcome to edition 11 of the BBP, showcasing the best in business throughout the South West. In this edition James Caan talks about his new book Start Your Business in Seven Days. Discussions include the 2012 budget and its general implications for business, and an exploration of alternative sources of business funding for SMEs. The transport industry is reminded of the need to deliver on promises, in order to help growth across the board; we welcome the growth of the “staycation”, and consider new legislation to help regulate the building industry. In our next issue the Eden Project celebrates its relationship with its suppliers. We discuss Risk Management for SMEs and the region’s growth despite the so called recession. As always, we will have news and comments from businesses throughout the region.

Bristol Business Post 11 Canalside Office Complex, Lowesmoor Wharf, Worcester WR1 2RR Tel: 08000 807 809 Fax: 01905 726 467 E: hello@bristolbusinesspost.co.uk W: www.bristolbusinesspost.co.uk Publisher: PIL (Europe) Limited Print & Design: Heron Press UK ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Reproduction in whole or part prohibited without permission. Colour transparencies, prints or any pictorial media for this publication are sent at owners risk and whilst every care is taken, neither PIL (Europe) Limited or its agents accept liability for loss or damage. No editorial submissions will be returned unless accompanied by a Self Addressed Envelope.

DISCLAIMER Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that adverts and articles appear correctly, PIL (Europe) Limited cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage caused directly or indirectly by the contents of this publication. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of its publisher or editor.

Bluegrass Computer Services IMSM Office Clearance and Wholesale ACC Contractors Outset Plymouth Rank Success Hilton-Baird Financial Solutions Alexander Daniels Professional Recruitment Group Foster Care Associates Truxspray Motorweld Moss Bristol William C. Hockin Taunton DAF Zero Seven Telecom Viezu Technologies Tony Hole Marine PC Motors Sparks Auto Electrical Ashwoods Automotive Hall's Electrical DAWS Transport Crown Conveyors Spiller Architectural Ironmongery Alan Davis Automatics Hawkins Insulation EPC Direct Avalon Surfacing Morris & Perry Rawlings & Son (Bristol) Dipec Plastics MacWhirter Gawler Tapes Derek Lane & Co Bradshaw Radmore & Tucker We Care & Repair Britannia Windows Wessex Drainage Solutions Somerset Carpenters ECOFAB Golden Castle Caravans Intersound Guitars Bournemouth Curtains Swindon Karting Wheatland Farm Peterstone Lakes Golf Club Cox & Baloney Vintage Boutique The Cake House McGills Chartered Accountants Cornish Farm Produce Chambers Restaurant The Old Inn 102 Cookery School The Whitminster Inn The Masons Arms, Devon The Highwayman's Haunt Tudor Catering Trailers The Mason Arms, Odcombe Rockys & Platters Wally's Delicatessen

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Bluegrass

COMPUTER SERVICES

Bluegrass Computer Services is very proud to have been one of the first companies in the South West to have achieved ISO 20000 accreditation, an accolade only achieved by computer support companies who meet the highest standards in service quality, delivery, working practices and training. David Thomas, managing director, had initially planned to work towards ISO 27001, which covers information security, but after talking to IMSM decided to go for ISO 20000, which covers IT service delivery, with an element of information security.

The company has expanded and now has more than 200 clients. The Bluegrass team look after the needs of a wide variety of sectors including hotels, dentists, charities, accountants, surveyors, call centers, solicitors and financial companies. Big names include a large local insurance company, Devon Air Ambulance and Bovey Castle who became the first clients to request their popular 24/7 support.

“It’s one of the most nerve wracking things we have ever done;” said David, “but IMSM were great partners. The ISO 20000 involves a very detailed analysis of more than 100 pages of requirements, covering every aspect of our business practices from staff training right through to service delivery. Every aspect of

Bluegrass pride themselves on monitoring and anticipating problems before they happen. The company has made major investment into monitoring systems displayed on huge screens in the office. Clients are often informed they had a problem before they realized it, together with the good news that it has already been resolved. David’s vision is to create a truly ethical company that does things honestly and in the best interests of their clients, and whose ethics and practices will command the respect of other businesses. It is very important to David to run a happy business with happy clients. our customer service, from initial enquiry to completion, follow up and the handling of any complaint was examined by the Institute’s own examiners, a tense time for us all. Bluegrass achieved the award in just four months; passing every element of the inspection with flying colours. The accreditation will be constantly monitored and reviewed annually in order to keep it. Awards and certificates aside, what does the ISO 20000 mean to clients? “It stands for consistency and excellence of service,” said David. “All the checklists and methods have actually made us more efficient so it’s improving our bottom line.” The Bluegrass story began almost by chance. David and his wife Hilary were running a project management company, IT Contracts, but were constantly frustrated at the poor level of service they received from computer support companies. “It made us realize how crucial good computer support was to the survival of any business,” he recalled. “It was a bit of a light bulb moment when I realized this was the direction in which we should actually be heading ourselves.” So, four years ago, David launched Bluegrass, his own computer support company, and hasn’t looked back since.

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David says, “It might sound cheesy, but that’s where we’re at.” There’s nothing cheesy about having the industry’s highest accolade hanging on your office wall!

t: 01392 207194 f: 01392 366301 e: ask@bluegrasscs.com

www.bluegrasscs.com

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incident in 2010. These incidents typically cost the respective businesses between £27,000 and £690,000. This figure is expected to increase and the exposure will cost dearly. A breach of information security can result in other cost areas; crippling fines for the business and in certain cases imprisonment may be levied upon the personnel responsible.

Taking cover

Call: 01793 688990 Email: emmabett@imsm.com Web: www.imsm.com

Easy Target

In a competitive and threatened marketplace an effective Information Security Management System (ISMS) monitors and maintains your business’ information security. The ISMS for any business must protect the three main areas required of it; confidentiality, integrity and availability. ISO/ IEC 27001: 2005 Information Security Management Standard has been designed to ensure the correct and effective implementation, operation, maintaining and improving the business ISMS. ISO/ IEC 27001 is the best way of demonstrating to all concerned that you take the security of all your information seriously.

In the line of fire Your competition has stolen all of your valued customers from under your nose. You lose business. You are forced to fold. Your customers’ contact details are like gold dust to the competition. With ease they can know, straight away, what is being sold, to whom and at what price. Why wouldn’t they want to steal it? Your information and data resources are one of the most important assets your business holds.

Contact IMSM today on 01793 688990 to arrange a no-obligation meeting with your local Area Manager to discuss your business’ ISMS.

Email: emmabett@imsm.com Web: www.imsm.com

How well is your data protected?

Call: 01793 688990 Email: emmabett@imsm.com Web: www.imsm.com Number 1 target Information and data resources remain a number one target for hackers and cyber criminals; they have a real value in, and from, any marketplace. Hackers and fraudsters are working overtime, over the Internet, to ensure they can break into the known forms of protection available at any time. Information security is a major area critical to the survival of a business. A system that is not secure and maintained with great vigilance is going to be at threat, with catastrophic results. Ultimate loss of reputation and business are the minimum you would expect as a result, a massive cost that most business will never recover from. The fall out From a recent Price Waterhouse Coopers (PWC) survey; 82% of small and 93% of large companies suffered an information security

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manufacturers like Hermann Miller, Knoll, Kinnarps and Steelcase. We can furnish an office for up to 200 staff from stock.”

W C E FIC re

OFffice Furnitu O

Delivery and installation are free on most orders and normally inside 7 days, same day delivery can be made available in some instances. Due to the growth of the business maintaining the core principles and values that have meant 6 years of steady growth is a challenge the company are determined to meet. Paul believes that the key to the company’s continued growth is having the right people in place; the right staff and the right customers, to build long term relationships. There are plans to expand the business into major cities around the UK including Birmingham, Cardiff and Slough, however, due to the comprehensive nature of their web site; they do already offer a nationwide service both on the clearance and installation side.

Office Clearance and Wholesale Ltd are coming to Bristol, after 5 years of continuous growth the Swindon based used office furniture Superstore is planning to open a second warehouse of 30,000 square foot in the Bristol area, negotiations are at an advanced stage. While an increasing customer base is spreading the word, for many the “Alladin’s cave” head office warehouse of Office Clearance and Wholesale, (OCW,) must be one of the UK’s best kept secrets in the supply of pre-owned office furniture.

With all products enjoying a 12 month warranty and exceptional customer service, it becomes clear that buying second hand furniture need no longer be an alternative option – it could and perhaps should be the first port of call. After all by buying pre-owned furniture you are doing your bit for the green revolution Join the growing band of environmentally (and bottom line) conscious businesses, try a different approach and be part of a revolution, a new way of thinking in an otherwise throw away society.

SME or large corporation, see what OCW might be able to do for you Visit: www.officecw.co.uk Email: sales@officecw.co.uk

Located 3 miles from Junction 16 on the Swindon side of the M4 the business has grown steadily since 2005 enjoying particularly significant expansion over the last two years.

Call 744

01793

New and Used Office Furniture Superstore. Largest stock in the UK.

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As founder and managing director Paul Smith said: “For many years small businesses have had to search out bargains; sharing offices, receptionists and buying used office furniture instead of new. Used office furniture has been associated with tiny shops and small warehouses, all bargains in their own right but a complete mish mash of styles, not in keeping with the desired corporate image.” Wandering round the warehouse (or navigating the web site www.officecw.co.uk) one is struck by the sheer scale of the operation. Closer inspection reveals a staggering range and choice of high quality products culled from major office clearances. Professional refurbishment results in an impressive new lease of life for many pieces, even 20 year old wood veneer furniture such as boardroom tables and reception desks can be stripped down and polished and made to look like new. Only the pricing gives it away. Mr Smith- still very much the driving force of the business, continued: “We have more than 3,000 desks, chairs and furniture ranging from budget priced items through to the top end

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Call us on 01793 619 744 W CEitC I F e r u F O ce Furn

Email us on sales@officecw.co.uk

Offi

Website www.officecw.co.uk

Bays 1&2, Evolution House Westmead Drive Swindon, Wiltshire SN5 7YT

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ACC

contractors ACC Contractors founded in 2005, are a family run business based in Bristol. They design, supply and install commercial interior solutions, carrying out associated building work as required.

Due to the excellent service they provide, their attention to detail and their highly experienced and qualified workforce, they are called upon by many of the large national main contractors throughout the UK to complete works where quality is a priority. However, Ray Rennolds M.D. says that with margins growing ever tighter, they are tendering for a lot more work directly from the end client, with its obvious financial benefits to both parties. Dealing direct offers advantages for the client companies. ACC are proud to offer best value for money, best advice and best products that save money in the long term, and projects which come in on time, keeping down time to the minimum. Currently they are working on projects which will run through to the end of this year. Large projects such as these or a small office revamp, every commission will receive the same detailed, thoughtful attention.

They are a true one stop shop and can manage your project from start to finish. From air conditioning to carpets, plumbing to space planning, furniture to partitions, especially demountable systems, suspended ceilings, heating, and all electrical, security, Data and lighting systems.

Contact Ray and the team on 01179 720659 or 01275 541638 to discuss your office and how ACC can help Visit: www.acccontractors.co.uk Email: enquiries@acccontractors.co.uk

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Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 17/05/2012 12:37 Page 8

Kevin Kelway, marketing executive of Outset Plymouth, said: "There are increasing pressures on job vacancies and self-employment is now a real option so that people can create their own jobs. We don't just offer people a course; we support them for the first 12 months. Outset Plymouth since June 2010 has help support 95 new city businesses, and 105 new jobs. A considerable achievement. We are looking to extend our contract - and we believe Outset is desperately needed in generating growth and new jobs in the years to come."

City start-up organisation boosting new businesses & jobs: Outset Plymouth was started in June 2010 and follows other schemes being delivered in Bristol, Torbay and Cornwall.

Plymouth Lord Mayor and Mayoress Peter and Brenda Brookshaw at the launch of the Plymouth Enterprising Women Network at the city council offices

Sir Giles Chichester visiting Outset Plymouth offices recently: Left to right: Christine Blackaller programme director of Outset Plymouth, Sir Giles Chichester MEP and Rob Guy of Outset Finance The city start-up organisation delivers several strands of business support including; Intensive Start-up support, Understanding Finance and Introduction to Enterprise. Outset Plymouth and Finance is a ÂŁ1.2 million programmes funded by the European Regional Development Fund and Plymouth City Council to support people looking to be self-employed. Recently a new network called the Plymouth Enterprising Women was launched providing mentoring and support for city women who want to grow their businesses.

Outset Plymouth's FREE networking events for local businesses are very popular every month:

Anyone looking for more information about Outset/YTKO can contact: www.outsetplymouth.co.uk or www.ytko.com Funded by

PLYMOUTH CITY COUNCIL

GLAMOUR R Outset clients being celebrated in Taunton by LET'S Entrepreneurs promoting 50+ people setting up their own enterprises. A European video project by ESF promoting older entrepreneurs across Britain and delivered by Superact based at Taunton College:

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Glamour Icons is a unique bespoke fashion and design service rvice

The network is run from Outset Plymouth, and part of the National Enterprising Women support consultancy YTKO based in Cambridge.

and we are proud to supportt Outset Plymouth and wish them luck in the future ture

The launch of PEW follows in the footsteps of Cornwall Enterprising Women.

t: 07800971890 e: info@glamour-icons-boutique.c info@glamour-icons-boutique.com com

www.glamour-icons-boutique.com www .glamour-icons-boutique.com tique.com

ICON ONS ICONS

Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 16:30 Page 9

RANK SUCCESS Supporting Your Aspiration c

A POLICEMAN’S lot is very definitely a happy one when he’s been working with Steve Cooper of Rank Success. Since the management coach and mentor launched his business offering workshops and individual sessions to promotion-seeking constables and sergeants, he’s achieved a 100% satisfaction rate from some now laughing policemen and women.

Steve Cooper

He may have only launched Rank Success in July but the business has quickly proved a hit with the boys and girls in blue who have found Steve’s methods of supercharging their chances of promotion a force to be reckoned with. A recent evaluation showed that 100% of individuals were willing to recommend the company’s services and were either ‘very’ or ‘extremely’ confident about achieving promotion having attended one of Steve’s workshops. You only have to visit Steve’s website - www.ranksuccess.co.uk - to get a sense of how well his mentoring and support has been received. A testimonials section is packed with plaudits from grateful officers who have all been on the receiving end of Steve’s expertise and have consequently passed the promotion board selection process at the first attempt. Ever flexible, Steve is happy to arrange workshops in any force area for groups large or small and can provide face to face coaching/mentoring or telephone support.

For further information, visit the website or email info@ranksuccess.co.uk Alternatively telephone 07581 299532

“I started Rank Success as a business, with the help of Outset Plymouth, after many of the individuals I had been coaching and mentoring for promotion succeeded in achieving their goal of passing their promotion interview at their first attempt,” explains the former chef and Royal Marine. “I believe that many people with real potential to pass promotion selection processes are unsuccessful because they do not prepare adequately. This is understandable. After all, it is not usual to walk around in a state of readiness for a promotion interview, however, it is a mindset that can be attained with focused preparation and hard work.”

Coaching and Mentoring for your Police Promotion (promotion skills workshops and one to one support)

Constable

to

Sergeant Ser geant

Sergeant

to

Inspector Insp pector

And that’s where Steve, a fully-qualified management coach / mentor with the Institute of Leadership and Management comes in, providing workshops and individual support to officers seeking to move up to the next rank, be it constable to sergeant or sergeant to inspector. “Candidates often say they do not know how they can prepare effectively or efficiently and therefore many do not do so thoroughly, thus they fail to realise their potential,” he reveals. “This is something repeated across the country every year, resulting in often avoidable disappointment and frustration. “With reduced vacancies and increased competition for promotion opportunities, a focused approach to preparing in advance can, and often does, make all the difference while the feedback I receive suggests that a small amount of coaching/mentoring support, can significantly increase levels of personal confidence and self belief.

Get it right first time Call today! Web www.ranksuccess.co.uk

Mobile 07581 299532

Email info@ranksuccess.co.uk

“In turn, this helps drive the subsequent approach and attitude adopted by individuals towards preparation.”

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James Caan

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7XEVX ]SYV &YWMRIWW MR (E]W In this incisive practical guide from one of Britain’s most successful entrepreneurs, James Caan offers his 30 years of expertise which could save budding entrepreneurs years of wasted time and thousands of pounds of wasted money Caan hit our TV screens when he joined the panel of the BBC's Dragons' Den in 2007. He is a regular commentator in the national and business press, advises Government on business policies, and initiates a number of philanthropic projects via The James Caan Foundation. He says ‘Everybody wants to be an entrepreneur. Every day of my life I am being pitched by people with new business ideas. But sadly 90% of new businesses are still failing. Entrepreneurs just need to ask themselves the right questions before they start their business journey.’ Everybody wants to be an entrepreneur. Every single day of my life I am bombarded by people with pitches. But 90% of new businesses fail, because their founders failed to ask themselves the simplest of questions. I can save you years of wasted time and thousands of pounds of wasted money by giving you the ammunition to ask the right questions, and helping you make the decision that is right for you. I will show you how to spend a maximum of seven days deciding if your idea is workable and bankable. How to say ‘I’m in’, but equally importantly, to have the courage to say ‘I’m out’. How to become your own Dragon. Each piece of advice in this book is based on my thirty years of starting businesses. You will find all the fundamental ingredients for any new company, whatever sector you want to be in, whatever size of business you have in mind, along with the tools to make it work. Answer all the tough questions I am going to get you to ask yourself and you will have a business that genuinely has a chance of success. You can be one of the 10% of businesses that do make it.

’

DAYS

Bev James, CEO of the Entrepreneurs’ Business Academy and bestselling author of Do It! or Ditch It

Turn your business idea into a life-changing success

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‘Many people achieve success in business, but not everyone is willing to share their blueprint for success. The information in this book is priceless’

JAMES CAAN START YOUR BUSINESS IN

‘

ÂŁ0.00 PENGUIN Business / Self-help and Personal Development

What questions are those? “You must ask yourself whether or not you possess the DNA of an entrepreneur? Can you identify your personal “Power of Why�? Do you have the inner blend of determination, hunger and fearlessness that you will need to succeed?� How do you know whether your idea is worth pursuing? “Your idea does not have to be ‘unique’. You don’t have to change the world. The most successful business ideas are often simple, ingenious tweaks on an existing way of doing business, but delivering it faster, better, cheaper or more easily. You need to find your compelling selling point. Your first idea does not have to be your final idea. Be strong enough to say ‘I’m out’ early on and move on to another idea that might be the one that works.� He says: “Share your ideas. Tell as many people as you can. Ask for feedback and you’ll be amazed what you can learn. Somebody will give you a piece of advice or the one angle you hadn’t thought of that could make all the difference between success and failure.� He added: “Research is absolutely fundamental to your ability to succeed.�

James Caan So OK, got the idea, done the research, what next? “Concentrate on landing your first order as early as possible. Don’t get distracted by all the peripherals of setting up websites, designing logos or choosing the office door, find out if somebody is prepared to put down good money for what you are selling. If a buyer is interested, listen carefully to what they tell you about pricing, size, packaging, delivery times. They know their market inside out, far better than you. It’s front-line research. He added, “When it comes to costings, work out the money that’s coming in, the money going out, and what’s left is your profit. If there is no profit, there is no businessâ€?. Start Your Business in 7 Days is a book for absolutely anybody with a good idea; Caan will provide you with the ammunition and advice you need and guide you towards the right decisions for your business. Published in paperback by Portfolio Penguin, priced ÂŁ12.99

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ALEXANDER DANIELS Professional Recruitment Group IF there was an Olympic medal for growth then the Alexander Daniels Professional Recruitment Group would be getting gold - as it is, they’ll just have to be content with their chairman being one of the nation’s 8,000 official torchbearers. Andy Foote will bear the Olympic flame aloft through Solihull later this year, in his capacity as CEO of the Joseph Foote Trust - but as part of Alexander Daniels he’s used to being a beacon in the world of recruitment. Now the business is marking a new achievement - an exclusive invitation-only party heralds the formal launch of its Bristol branch, at 10, Victoria Street, on May 24. It’s the latest stage in this award-winning company’s remarkable growth, which has seen it streak ahead of its competitors to triple in size, gain market share and become a recognised market leader with strong relationships with many of the region’s PLCs and niche SMEs. It’s even more remarkable that such growth, success and profitability happened within two years of being established right at the heart of the recession. Finance and accountancy director Nick Pearce is looking to build a team with a mix of high calibre graduates, senior consultants and consultants and describes the company’s Bristol arrival as: “A really exciting step forward”. “It is a direct response to increasing demand from clients impressed with our Midlands performance,” he adds. “We know that we are entering a very competitive market but I’m confident that the quality of our service, which is underpinned by our ADded Value philosophy, will help us break down any barriers. Alexander Daniels is a specialist recruitment group supplying permanent and interim recruitment solutions to sectors such Financial Services, Utilities, Business Services, Retail and Manufacturing. Areas of expertise include financial and management accounting, business analysis, risk, compliance, internal audit and board and senior level appointments.

“We have three challenges: Clients, Candidates and Consultants,” explains-Founder and Director of Executive Search Jamie Rodden, . “Consultant growth and hiring the quality of person who also believes in our values is a major challenge. We invest in graduate awareness through advertising and sponsoring of events and try to raise our profile within the industry as an employer of choice through awards and trade press. “Coupled with our consultants’ sales activity we have an annual marketing plan which, including a set of ADding value seminars, aims to engage clients by providing useful, educational and interesting topics, positioning Alexander Daniels as a business partner. “Candidates are our life-blood and an exclusive supply is one of the key differences between agencies. We have a full online strategy coupled with sponsoring key trade events.

At its core is a philosophy of ADding value to clients’ business, its candidates’ prospects and its employees’ careers, and all its recruitment solutions, individual career ADvisory services and ADding value training courses are delivered by passionate recruitment professionals. Now waiting to hear in June whether it has converted its West Midlands regional finalist status in the Local Business Accelerators to that of national victor, it’s not a company to rest on impressive laurels.

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“We also run a market leading workbook-based consultation programme for chartered accountants which has been a huge success and means Alexander Daniels is unique in its ability to supply ACAs.”

For further information about the Alexander Daniels Professional Recruitment Group Telephone: 0117 329 1100 Email: info@alexanderdaniels.co.uk Visit: www.alexanderdaniels.co.uk

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“Since becoming foster carers we’ve learnt a lot. Jeremy and I work as a team to create a nurturing and stable home for the young people in our care, and our children support us by welcoming them into the family. “We’ve offered respite, short term and long term care to vulnerable children and young people, experiencing several challenges and plenty of rewards along the way.” As the leading independent provider of fostering services in Bristol, FCA is committed to ensuring foster carers have the skills they need to provide high standards of care to vulnerable children and young people by offering 24 hour support, ongoing training and carer support groups.

fostering a sustainable career Recycling business owners Manda and Jeremy Green not only help sustain the environment but also work as a team to provide a safe and stable home environment to vulnerable youngsters in the west of England. Taking over the business from Jeremy’s father in 1971, the couple established Green Recycling Group Limited, but Manda had wanted to be more than a business woman, she had always wanted to foster.

“The training offered by FCA is invaluable,” Manda continued. “It’s educational, enjoyable and gives you an opportunity to meet other foster carers, share experiences and discuss challenges. “There is no better feeling than seeing the young person in your care smile. Through time and patience they’ll learn to trust again and feel a sense of belonging and security. Manda added: “I would definitely recommend giving FCA a call. They’ll provide you with training and an opportunity to discuss how fostering may affect your family. “I have no regrets about fostering, it’s changed our lives for the better.”

FCA is continually looking to recruit more foster carers in Bristol who can provide a stable home to vulnerable children and young people. If you think you have the skills and qualities to make a positive and lasting difference to the lives of youngsters in care call FCA.

Freephone on 0800 023 4561 or visit the website www.iwanttofoster.com Manda and Jeremy Green After several discussions with Jeremy and her children, mother of four Manda decided the time was right to take the next step towards a life changing career. In 2009 Manda contacted the UK’s leading independent fostering agency - Foster Care Associates (FCA) - and has never looked back since.

“I used to be a teacher... now I’m a foster carer”

“We have friends that foster, so know all about the challenges as well as the rewards fostering brings,” explained Manda.

FOSTER WITH FCA • A local team of social workers, therapists and support workers • 24 hour support, 7 days a week • Paid respite • Competitive fee, £397.25 p/w

INTERESTED? If you want to make a lasting difference to a child or young person’s life and you have a spare bedroom then...

“They recommended we give it a go as our children were grown up and I had previous experience with children, working in a pre-school.

...come along to our Open Day on Tuesday 22nd May between 11am-2pm or on Tuesday 29th May between 1pm-4pm at FCA, 11-13 Whiteladies Road, Bristol BS8 1PB.

0800 023 4561 www.iwanttofoster.com 13

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Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 16:30 Page 14

IT support company celebrates its first decade

An IT support company which was set up through the Camborne Pool Redruth (CPR) Learning Partnership to provide computer help for primary and nursery schools in West Cornwall is celebrating 10 years in business.

iCT4 founder, Glyn Pascoe, said: “We’re really pleased to be celebrating 10 years in business. It’s been a great time for us and we’ve enjoyed working with the schools in West Cornwall, but we’re also enjoying our expansion supporting businesses and charities in the area. We offer businesses significant discounts for software and hardware as a result of our buying power, and all profits we make get ploughed back into supporting schools, so it’s something that businesses and charities can gain recognition for as part of their corporate responsibility message.” Glyn says that he feels that their expansion has brought great opportunities to help businesses at a time of opportunity, and said “We’ve got a great team in place and are really looking forward to the year ahead.” Mark Smith from CPR Regeneration said: “iCT4 is a real success story of the work that was carried out by CPR Learning Partnership. Glyn, Aaron, Josh and now Guy have to be congratulated.”

Email: sales@ict4.co.uk Web: www.ict4.co.uk Laptop House are proud to support ICT4 Networks and we wish them all the best for the future.

LAPTOPHOUSE.CO.UK

iCT4 has expanded its offering to help businesses and charities in the area and became semi-independent in 2007 before relocating to its new base at Redruth School in 2011.

Call us now for a FREE quote

01782 838883

Supply (all major brands) Installation Leasing facilities Insurance cover

www.laptophouse.co.uk Email: sales@laptophouse.co.uk Chatterley Whitfield Centre, Biddulph Road, Stoke On Trent, Staffordshire ST6 8UW

The Supplier with a "FIRST CLASS" reputation for service!

(BRISTOL LIMITED) Roadworthy Bristol are proud to be one of the first 40 dealerships in the country, and the first in the South West, to offer the new Steed, a double cab pick up, from Great wall Motors. High spec and highly affordable, it offers you the chance to own a brand new pick-up for less than you think. This is an exciting development for Roadworthy, to be in at the start of major Chinese manufacturer, Great Wall’s expansion into the UK. Best known as a Suzuki dealership, Roadworthy are a family owned business with nearly 30 years experience. They are very proud of their customer retention and approval ratings. In fact they are currently No.2 in the national Suzuki leagues for both sales and after sales customer satisfaction scores. An interesting statistic about the company is that they sell a similar number of used and new vehicles, very often demonstrating a long term ongoing customer relationship. They offer a wide range of Suzuki economical and low emission vehicles that meet today’s stringent times whilst still being fun to drive and own, including the highly regarded Swift and Grand Vitara models They carry a full range of parts and offer fixed price servicing, not just for Suzuki and Great Wall, but also for Subaru and Chevrolet. In addition their friendly staff carry out MOTs and repairs for all makes and models.

They cover Bristol, Bath, Clevedon, Nailsea, Portishead and Weston-Super-Mare, and the surrounding areas including collection and delivery and courtesy car services. Pop down and see them, take the opportunity to be one of the first people to test drive the new Steed, enjoy a cup of coffee and a chat, and see how Roadworthy Bristol Ltd can help you along the road ahead.

574-590 Fishponds Road | Bristol | BS16 3SJ

Call: 01179 654990 www.roadworthybristol.co.uk

AJ Taylor Collision Repair Centre

Tel 0117 958 3685 Fax 0117 958 6344 Email repairsajtaylor@btconnect.com www.ajtaylor-collisionrepaircentre.co.uk

Proud to support and provide our services to Roadworthy and it’s customers. Best wishes for the future.

BODY REPAIR CENTRES PAS 125 KM 53371

14

269b Ridgeway Road, Fishponds, Bristol BS16 3JZ

APPROVED REPAIRER

Truxspray are the one stop body shop to keep your vehicle or fleet looking its best.

approved MVRA/ fleet identity solutions body shop the company provides businesses with a professional respraying service. Truxspray’s individual refinishing service is to suit each client from large fleets to individual owner drivers, even horseboxes! If you are looking for something different, a distinctive look, for your own vehicle or fleet, Truxspray have an award winning airbrush artist on the staff, visit the company web site www.truxspray.com for some examples of his work.

Truxspray, which has been established in Wincanton since 2007, is owned and run by Colin Lucas, who has more than 30 years experience in the industry. They are a fully trained team of professionals and use the latest fully compliant vehicle coatings in partnership with Akzo-nobel (Sikkens.) As specialists, they are able to carry out all types of paintwork, accident repair, fabricating, traditional sign writing, vinyl graphics, shot/sand blasting, air brushing, spray mask etc

If it has wheels, Colin and the team will return it to its former glory, classic cars, trucks, horse boxes and motor cycles can all be repaired and refurbished to your specifications. In short, whatever your vehicle needs to look its best, call Truxspray on 01963 31790

Southgate Road, Wincanton, Somerset BA9 9RZ

The

FINE FOOD C O M PA N Y

We are proud to be associated with...

Truxspray T: 01963 34699 F: 01963 824777 E: sales@finefoodco.co.uk

All work is carried out in house in their own 3000 square foot body shop, with a 60 foot Junair low bake oven to ensure a perfect finish every time. The company is insurance company approved due to the high standard of finish and quick turn around times, and carries out all types of insurance repair work. Truxspray’s team of technicians work hard to get their customers back on the road as soon as possible without compromising standards, and pride themselves on their quick turnaround. As a fully

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MOTORWELD Motorweld, Bristol‘s premier accident repair service is busier than ever thanks to its excellent reputation for high quality body repair work. Motorweld is the preferred choice of many leading insurance companies, private customers, and the managers of large fleets. Motorweld specialises in all kinds of vehicle bodywork from accident to smart repair, restoration, customising and mechanical repairs, recovery and respraying. No job too big or too small.

and most experienced employees, Richard Bojski and Paul Fortune, bought into the company as partners. After 39 years of continuous expansion it became clear that the company had outgrown the Old Market site, and the decision was made to move to new larger premises in Brislington in 2001. The larger doors and higher ceilings in the new building mean that they are able to cater for larger vehicles thus expanding their offering. The extra space has brought the opportunity to invest in new state of the art equipment and they are particularly proud of a computerised slow bake oven for curing water based paintwork which helps them to achieve a perfect finish. Their business user service includes free estimates, free recovery, and free pick up and drop offs. A one year guarantee. Negotiable low labour rates. Motorweld can accommodate most light commercial vehicles thanks to their Light Commercial Jig and the Light Commercial Computerised oven. Private users enjoy free pick up and drop off in the Bristol area, with a full manufacturers guarantee, valet service, courtesy car, subject to hire conditions, non-fault specialists. Next time you need bodywork for your vehicle go to Motorweld and find out for yourself, just what makes them so special.

Unit 12, Eldonwall Trading Estate, Eldon Way, Bristol, The company has been serving the Bristol area for 39 years and was founded by Gary Knight at workshops based in Old Market in 1973. Over the next 18 years business continued to grow, and the company rapidly became known as Bristol’s foremost crash repair service. In 1991 two of Motorweld’s longest serving

DAN HA HARFORD ARFORD D

BS4 3QQ Tel: 0117 971 6060 email: mail@motorweld.com

The Trade Parts Specialists

With W ith o over ver 50 y years ears e experience xperience we’re w e’re the p people eo ople tto o visit! High H igh Street ig Stre ee et Great deals on New and used Network Great N Network Q carss Kingswood Kingswoo od SService ervice and MO MOT’s T ’s Bristol Bristol o FFull ull range range of Vauxhall Vauxhall par parts ts BS15 4AJ 4A AJ C ourtesy cars Courtesy tel: 0117 960 0747 visit: visit: www.danharford.co.uk www.danhar ford.cco.uk uk tel: Call

0844 371 4779

BRISTOL HONDA TRUST | VALUE | AWARD WINNING

. ...............................................................................................................

We are proud to support Motorweld 834 Bath Road Brislington Bristol BS4 5LQ www.bristolhonda.co.uk

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Commercial Vehicles

Bristol and Cadiff TPS Unit 8 Wilverley Trading Estate Bath Road, Brislington Bristol BS4 8NL

Call: 0845 8840416

Bristol and West

Windscreens

We come to you wherever you are... ..Free on charge! Mobile Replacement Service

CALL FREE: 0500 585 500

Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 16:31 Page 17

funding *SV &YWMRIWW

Business Confidence is boosted by Government Measures to Improve Financing and to support Sources of Alternative Finance for Small to Medium Businesses. Confidence levels among small businesses have improved despite rising overheads and problems accessing finance. In a survey conducted by the Federation of Small Businesses of more than 3,000 of its members, confidence was shown to be recovering, with many of the companies polled reporting plans for growth in the 12 months ahead. The survey found, however, continuing concerns about the cost and availability of finance. More than one in five firms cites access to finance as a major barrier to growth, with 41% of loan applicants being refused. This is an issue the government is seeking to address, through the expansion of schemes designed to stimulate alternatives to bank finance which will benefit small to medium size businesses.

The government has upgraded the Enterprise Finance Guarantee (EFG), in which the Government acts as a guarantor on bank lending to small businesses, by increasing the guarantee on 13 % of banks total lending to 20%. They have also extended funding to the Business Finance Partnership (BFP), which operates beside pension and insurance funds, by 20% to £1.2bn. The idea is to encourage a UK market for private lending by these funds, with the Treasury matching the sums that the fund managers have raised. As part of the scheme £100m will be allocated to non-bank sources of finance aimed at smaller companies, such as 'peer to peer' lenders, who facilitate lending directly between borrowers and investors. Peer to peer lenders such as Thin Cats and the Funding Circle are an online marketplace where

real people lend to UK businesses. The scheme is based on the person to person lending model established by Zopa, Quakle and Ratesetter but rather than financing individuals, the loans are to businesses. Businesses get fast access to finance to continue growing their business, and lenders get good returns on their money. Borrowers are carefully screened beforehand, and in the case of Thin Cats have to be proposed by a business “sponsor”. By cutting out the high costs and complexity of banks both sides are better off.

CUS TOME R SOLUTIONS The government has upgraded the Enterprise Finance Guarantee (EFG), in which the Government acts as a guarantor on bank lending to small businesses

They have also extended funding to the Business Finance

An independent task force on non bank lending, chaired by Tim Breedon, CEO of Legal & General, which was commissioned by the government to look at alternative sources of funding reported that while bank lending is by far the predominate source of external funding there is considerable scope to develop the supply of non bank lending in line with the US model. Business Secretary Vince Cable said: “We need to reshape the UK’s finance landscape to better serve the needs of ordinary businesses, helping more companies find the support they need to start and grow. “Tim Breedon’s taskforce has brought together industry, investors and advisers to provide evidence and ideas on increasing the range of finance sources available to small businesses. I thank them for their hard work and detailed recommendations, and I hope this will represent a turning point in business finance in this country.”

Partnership (BFP)

As part of the scheme £100m will be allocated to non-bank sources of finance aimed at smaller companies, such as 'peer to peer' lenders

VISIT www.thincats.com www.fundingcircle.com www.hm-treasury.gov.uk www.bis.gov.uk/efg

The Government will review the recommendations presented by the taskforce and announce its response shortly.

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Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 16:31 Page 18

“Our customers receive the very best service, favourable prices and are served by trained parts personnel with a passion for what they do. “Our business is run on the passion to supply the best parts and service to keep classic cars on the road for years to come.

All that is reinforced by a full and rigorous in-house training programme and enhanced by everyone’s enthusiasm to help our customers get the parts they want so that they can continue to drive, restore, enjoy or improve their much-loved cars. Specialising in parts and accessories for classic British sports cars such as MG, Triumph, Mini, Austin Healey and modern classic sports cars such as Mazda MX5, MGF and MGTF, Moss Bristol is the South West's leading parts and accessories suppliers. LIKE the classic cars it helps to keep on the road, Moss Bristol is a business run on passion. Yes, it’s not as simple as just running these head-turning vehicles on petrol. For their custodians, owning some of the most iconic models in motoring history -and in many cases restoring them lovingly back to life - involves passion and commitment. That’s why Moss Bristol, in the city’s Elton Street, is more than just a source of those vital parts they need. Owners know that they’re dealing with like-minded souls, people who are just as dedicated as they are about keeping the classic cars of the past on the road for the future. Knowing that their precious vehicles will always be supplied with the right part because of the expertise of the supplier means Moss Bristol is constantly gaining new business from various sectors of the UK motor industry as well as across the world. It currently has a major contract to provide many parts for a client building a limited run of reproduction classic cars and demand is growing from overseas “Being at Moss Bristol is not a 9am-5pm job, it’s a lifestyle,” acknowledges branch manager Owen Britton, himself continuing his life-long interest in classic cars by working on a full chassis-up restoration of his grandad’s 1967 Triumph Herald 12/50.

DGM

BODYWORKS

MGB CENTRE

(Bath)

EST.1980 EST .1980

Specialists in Classic Sport or Saloon Car Restoration

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Moss Bristol is part of Moss Europe Ltd, one of the founding companies of the British classic car parts industry having started in the mid 1970s and, now connected to Moss Motors in the USA, is part of the world's oldest and largest British classic car parts and accessories organisation. There has been a branch at Bristol for more than 20 years and its 4,000sq ft site incorporates the shop, office and warehouse covering more than 5,000 product lines. However, its possible product range extends to more than 20,000 lines which are available to order if not in stock. Customers are warmly welcomed at the shop where they can browse among the comprehensive stock but Moss Bristol also offers mail order across the UK and worldwide as well as a collection or delivery service. t:01179 676060 e:krychtrimming@hotmail.com

Proud to support

Moss of Bristol

KRYCH trimming ltd

Unit One | 24 Charlton Rd | Kingswood | Bristol | BS15 1HB

T he Brist ol The Bristol Workshop W orkshop

E Everything verything for for Your Your MG

www.bristolmgworkshop.com w ww.bristolmgworkshop.com

T: 0117 9566231 F: 0117 9754064 E: enquiries@brist enquiries@bristolmgworkshop.com olmgworkshop.com

We are proud to suport Moss of Bristol

We are proud to be associated with Moss of Bristol

32 Green Park Mews | Bath | BA1 1JD | T T:: 01225 317770

Signal Road Staple Hill Bristol BS16 5PF

Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 16:34 Page 19

“You don’t have to be rich to own a classic car,” insists Owen. “Our customer base covers young lads building grass track cars to older chaps restoring their life-long hobby into retirement., ex racing drivers and TV celebrities.

“If you can't find the part you require for your vehicle, then ask, we are happy to help.” The shop is open Monday to Friday: 9am-5:30pm and Saturday: 9am-1pm.

For further information Visit: www.moss-bristol.co.uk E: Bristol@moss-europe.co.uk T: 01179 232523

Williams

panel craft ltd

...the complete car and van accident repair sollution “We are proud to support Moss of Bristol” t: 0117 9666866 f: 0117 9666828 m: 0778 7572368 e: info@panelcraftbristol.co.uk

www.donwilliamspanelcraft.co.uk

Olds

The Olds Motor Group is an approved service and parts outlet for Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep motor cars and is celebrating 50 years in business.

At Olds Motor Group they are able to provide a comprehensive range of financial services to help you afford your next car. Whether you are making an individual or business purchase they are able to tailor a package to suit your needs offering flexible terms, competitive interest rates and structured payment options to suit your individual requirements. Once you have completed a simple application form it usually takes less than an hour to work out the best deal for you. Insist on the best when it comes to maintaining your car. As the second largest purchase most people ever make let the professionals take care of it. All of Old’s technicians complete a gruelling manufacturer training scheme to gain the qualifications necessary to work on your car. Whether for routine maintenance or an un-scheduled repair you can be sure that Olds Motor Group will take the best care of your pride and joy.. If you own a Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep, take it to Olds Motor Group for its next service or repair, and experience what 50 years in business actually brings.

Sherborne Road | Yeovil | BA21 4HA T: 01935 429700 F: 01935 475550 E: enquiries@olds.co.uk This well regarded dealer has become a familiar and trusted part of Yeovil’s business community. Motoring aficionados of the Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep marques throughout the South West will always make Olds Motor Group their first point of call, whether they are looking for servicing or repairs for their vehicle or perhaps a carefully prepared used car. Olds Motor Group always has a good selection of used cars at the Sherborne Road showroom; visit their web site for details and images of the vehicles currently on display visit www.olds.co.uk

www.autospray-uk.com

Unit 4 Hardings Business Centre Bowbridge Henstridge Somerset BA8 0TF Tel: 01963 362002 Mobile: 07970 897644

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. C H M O A C I KIN L L I W

Established in 1974 Barnstaple’s largest privately owned haulier is looking forward to the future. Bill and Irene Hockin started the company in 1974, when Bill was only 25, he had been working as a driver since he was 17, but as he says himself, he always had the drive and ambition to build his own company. Starting up with just one truck they acted as a general haulage contractor, turning nothing down and working “all hours”, with Bill as driver, and Irene dealing mainly with the office side, coping single handedly, to grow their business. Since that time they have barely had time to stop and think, as due to a combination of delivering on promises and careful pricing the business has thrived. Still very much in the driving seat 38 years later, Bill has seen his fleet grow to 40 44 tonne vehicles, and 70 trailers, recognised countrywide by their red, white and blue livery. They also run a couple of small vans as a courier service for those of their customers needing a smaller delivery. All their vehicles are fitted with the latest GPs equipment to ensure that consignments get there in the shortest possible time. The business was originally based at Pottington Industrial Estate in Barnstaple. In 1988 Bill decided to build his own purpose built facility on the Roundswell Business Park, this is the most prestigious Business Park in the area and Bill took a large plot for his Head Office site. At that time he had seven lorries in his fleet, and the naysayers scratched their heads and wondered if he was overreaching himself. Bill has certainly proved them wrong, he says it was the best thing he ever did! The Roundswell Business Park, Barnstaple, Devon EX31 3NL, is conveniently situated just off the A39 and close to major infrastructure links.

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This is a family firm run by Bill and his wife, Irene as co – directors. Bill’s daughters worked for them for quite some time but the demands of Bill’s 10 grandchildren are taking priority these days, although the new website currently under construction will be a joint family enterprise. Like many family run businesses there is a friendly feel and a good working atmosphere. Bill says “Every one knows everyone’s name; no one is just a number here.” Many of the staff have been with them for 20 years or more, and while sometimes a few do move on, they frequently return to the fold. When Bill has a new appointment to make he will always look first among his existing team to fill the vacancy, thus Steve, who had been a driver for 10 years now works in the office. The combination

LANGDON TRANSPORT LTD STORAGE AND DISTRIBUTION

We provide the complete

Logistics Solution: Distribution Warehousing Transportation

Contact us tel: 01752 895544 fax: 01752 895535 email: mail@langdon-transport.com

Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 16:34 Page 21

of 10 years driving experience coupled with a good interpersonal, and customer facing skills, means that the appointment has been a successful one for all parties. !Bill and his team have a vast store of experience in all forms of haulage which results in the company being able to offer straightforward advice coupled with extremely competitive quotes, and to deliver the sort of cost efficient and effective results, which are highly valued by their long standing, well established customer base. Much of their new business comes from recommendations and word of mouth from their existing client base who value the sort of highly personal service they get from Bill and his team. Bill told me a story relating to the early days when a customer of whose business he had a minor share rang him at 2 a.m. for an emergency delivery, the contractor with the lion’s share of the client’s business being unavailable. Bill, of course, made the delivery. It isn’t hard to guess who has the major share of that client’s business now! This illustrates the difference between Bill and other contractors, he really cares! Bill explained that the business in common with many others, is going through a very tough period, particularly with many major companies choosing to run their own fleets, Bill said that it is rather like being a corner shop compared to a Sainsbury’s or a Tesco’s! But his firm belief, and the major factor to which he attributes his success, is that rather than complaining about how tough things are, the high price of diesel and so on, that “the tougher things are the harder, as a team, we all have to work”.

SAFETYSUPPLIES DIRECT Safety Equipment & Consumables

After so many successful years most couples might have chosen to take a back seat, sell out or retire, particularly during such a challenging business climate, not so Bill and Irene, 2 years ago they opened a completely fresh division! They saw an opportunity and grasped it, and bought a business transporting bulk fuel. The bulk fuel business is proving a great success, and has grown from 5 vehicles to be currently operating 8 tankers. Bill has big plans for this part of his business, and is planning to expand this division in the next few years, from its base at the Seven Brethren depot. It is a great tribute to Bill and the way in which he does business that once again he has been elected to the Chairmanship of the North Devon Road Haulage Association. North Devon is a sub division of the Road Haulage Association which supports its membership over a wide range of transport issues. Bill has put his heart and soul into his business and cares about every small detail; he says “If you have a problem tell me, if you are pleased tell the world.” Contact Bill for a competitive quotation and feel for yourself the difference it makes when you deal with William C Hockin, a privately owned independent company, rather than some large faceless organisation.

Telephone: 01271 372945 Email: bill@williamchockin.co.uk

STUARTS TRUCK AND BUS B Volvo V olvo Truck Truck & Bus Bus Since Since 1977 19 77

Proud to support William C Hockin

Depots D epots at Exeter Exeter Plymouth P lymouth Redruth R edruth

01395 0 1395 232800 232800 0 01752 0 1752 752233 752233 3 01209 01 209 314496 314496

Open O pen M Mon on – Fri 0 07.00 7.00 – 23.00 23.00 S Sat at 07.00 07.00 – 13.00

We are proud to support William C Hockin Call 01271 377 558 www.safetysuppliesdirect.co.uk

ƌĂŶĞ &ŝƫŶŐ Plant

& Commercial Repairs Coded Welders Transport & Crane Hire We are proud to be associated with William C Hockin and wish them all the best in the future. Fair Oak Farm Braunton Road Barnstaple EX31 4AU Tel: 01271 376701 | Mob: 07831 325593

B A Brake rake Testing Testing Air ir C Conditioning onditioning Repairs Repairs T Smoke Te sting Testing ail Lift Lift Servicing Servicing Tail S A Allll M Makes Vehicle Repaired akes of of V ehicle R epaired peed Limiters Limiters Speed Digital gital & Analogue Analogue Tacho Tacho Centre Centre MO Di T Prep Prep MOT 4H our B reakdown & Re covery Se rvices 24 Hour Breakdown Recovery Services 2

Unbeatable price & service ANY glass ANY vehicle Nationwide repair and replace Free stone chip repairs (subject to insurance) Competitive prices for 3rd party insured Direct bill most insurance companies Congratulations to William C Hockin on your 35th anniversary we are delighted to be associated with you 11 Taw Mill Business Park Howard Avenue Industrial Estate, Barnstaple Tel: (01271) 379070

40 YEARS QUALITY SERVICE

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Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 16:37 Page 22

For over 35 years, Taunton DAF and its predecessors have served truck operators in North Devon, Somerset, and West Dorset.

Taunton DAF 148 Priorswood Road Taunton Somerset TA2 8DW

Sales: Open: Mon - Fri: 8-30am to 5-30pm Tel: 01823 331275 Email: sales@tauntondaf.co.uk Parts: Open: Mon - Fri: 7am to 7pm & Sat: 8am to 1pm By aiming to give the best possible support to the trucking community they have established a high reputation in their service, parts and truck sales activities. They sell the market leading DAF range of trucks which covers the entire range from 7.5 – 44 tonnes and beyond. Taunton DAF are proud to count many well known haulage and own account operators among their established client base. They are pleased to support William C Hockin, and wish him all continued success.

Tel: 01823 288425 Email: parts@tauntondaf.co.uk Service: Open: Mon - Fri: 8am to 10pm Tel: 01823 331323

Taunton DAF Congratulate W C Hockin (Transport) Ltd on 35 years of successful trading

Call us today 01823 331275

For further information about Taunton DAF

Call: 01823 331 275 Fax: 01823 334 493 Email: info@tauntondaf.co.uk www.tauntondaf.co.uk 22

Trucks fit for business 7.5t to 150t Taunton DAF is the South West’s leading commercial vehicle dealership offering Sales of new and used DAF trucks and unrivalled Service and Parts backup across the region.

Taunton DAF Taunton DAF 148 Priorswood Road, Taunton, TA2 8DW Service 01823 331323 Parts 01823 288425 www.tauntondaf.co.uk

With many years of experience in both the heavy and light commercial vehicle sectors Taunton DAF has built an enviable reputation for quality and customer service.

Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 16:37 Page 23

• Broadband supply • Supply and porting of non-geographical numbers – 0800, 0845, 0870

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• Fixed Line installation • Cellular Accessories & GSM handset supply • Supply & installation of hands free kits • Vehicle management & reporting tools • Satellite navigation • Phone unlocking & general repairs • Premicells – call a 07 prefix and this equipment automatically routes the call charge via a sim card and your company mobile call contract i.e. the call could be free

zero seven

telecom Your complete telecommunication service provider - talking business! If you are a business mobile phone user who is just not getting the service from your current supplier whether network, service provider or dealer then you need to contact Zero Seven Telecom. If you think you are paying too much or would just like to put your current tariff to the test then contact Zero Seven Telecom. Probably the best dedicated business supplier based in the South West with accounts nationwide, Zero Seven Telecom are prepared to put their money where their mouth is. Why don’t you; Try before you buy; got a problem with your account then ring Zero Seven Telecom and test their customer service before you engage their services OR take the Tariff Test, Zero Seven Telecom promise to save you money off your annual mobile costs or you will be given £1,000 by way of compensation for your time.

Affinity deals – for staff getting the buying power of the company Customer service – contact us first before your supplier and we will try to fix the problem on your behalf. Either way for good old fashioned service and great value for money in black and white terms then contact Zero Seven Telecom – complete business telecoms.

Call: 0800 019 2217 Email : info@zeroseventelecom.com Visit : www.zeroseventelecom.com

Complete Business Telecoms

Zero 7 prides itself on being completely independent, offering you the choice from all the major five networks;

Zero 7 was established to assist all businesses with their communication requirements, with an emphasis on cellular technology. The name Zero 7 comes from the 07 prefix to all mobile phones in the UK. The company is based in the South West, with clients stretching across the mainland and overseas, so there are no constraints or limitations upon our potential clients.

‡ ‡ 9RGDIRQH ‡ 7 0RELOH ‡ 2UDQJH ‡ 7KUHH

Zero 7 prides itself on being completely independent, offering you the choice from all the major five networks; 02, Vodafone, TMobile, Orange and Three for your cellular communication.

for your cellular communication.

The natural progression from cellular communication was into landlines and then a combination of both, thereby providing you with a complete telecommunication solution to keep your business talking. Zero 7 has a comprehensive range of products and services to support all aspects of your company’s communication needs.

• Landline Rental • Reduced Cost Landline Calls

For more information regarding any of our business services: Commpliment House | Upcott Park | Pottington Business Park Barnstaple | Devon | EX31 1AD

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t: e: info@zeroseventelecom.com

zero seven

www.zeroseventelecom.com

telecom

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“A performance tune can result in an increase in power of up to 40% for a turbo diesel. “Viezu Technologies, the result of years of research, development and experience in automobile technology and car tuning, offers only the very best in custom ECU remapping, car tuning and engine tuning and uses the latest ECU programming techniques and software available to do so. “Our core technical skills are combined with a passion for outstanding performance car tuning and customer service to thousands of motorists and businesses worldwide.” AWARD-winning Viezu Technologies is all revved up and raring to motor into an exciting 2012.

Further peace of mind for those clients comes with the fact that all Viezu’s products are fully insured and come with a full money back guarantee.

The UK’s leading vehicle tuning company - one of the fastest growing globally - is planning to launch a host of products in the coming months, and has just become fully ISO 9001 certified, not just for its products, but the supply of ECU enhancement services including training and program development. All this while continuing to watch its dealership network expand from the current 340 across 32 countries.

It was the technical skills and innovative qualities, along with some impressive figures - the company has helped motorists save 50,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions - that were recognised last year with the national Innovation through Technology Award 2011, following its Midlands win, at the Chamber of Commerce Awards. Viezu, a member of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders and UK Trade & Investment, was also a finalist in the International Business category and more recently was nominated in the 2011 Midlands Business awards for Exporter of the year, Innovation in Business and Entrepreneur of the year. All in all there are plenty of reasons to welcome in the new year at Viezu and plenty of new products to look out for, including the award-winning Blue Optimize fuel economy tuning. 2012 is starting on a really high note for this tuning specialist.

CEO Paul Busby and his team of ten know exactly what it is to be tuned to perfection. At its state-of-the-art training and research centre on Bromsgrove’s Aston Fields Industrial Estate, Viezu specialises in a range of tuning upgrades and services for just about every modern petrol and turbo-diesel vehicle, resulting in either improved fuel economy and the lowering of CO2, or performance. If required, it can provide a bespoke combination of both, thus enhancing the overall driving experience, and it is also a soughtafter research and development establishment, carrying out special projects for select customers and organisations. All tuning files are developed on its 300bhp environmentally controlled rolling road and emission testing system and Viezu is proud of the fact that no other tuning company spends so much time and money developing its range. Explains Paul: “An economy tune can provide up to 15% better fuel economy, although it is dependent on the vehicle - whether it’s petrol or diesel, its, age etc - and driving style.

For further information about the company and its services, including a range of experience days for the true motoring enthusiast, Visit: www.viezu.com Telephone: 01527 579 345 Email: info@viezu.com Established for over 10 years we offer bespoke remapping!

(diesel & petrol)

We also specialise in vehicle repair sales, servicing, MOT’S and much more

Call us now on 01548 857 061

blsdevelopments “economy tuning specialists in Devon”

www.blstech.co.uk

www.ma-autos.co.uk www .ma-autos.co.uk

sales@ma-autos.co.uk

Tel 01568 616676 Mob 07850 768829

MA Autos Garage Ser Services vices . Bodywork . R Repairs epairs viezu dealer offering ecu remapping power per performance formance and economy

We W e are proud to suppor supportt Viezu TTechnologies echnologies Unit 1 FFryers r yers Garage South Street LLeominster eominster HR6 8JH

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Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 16:38 Page 25

TONY HOLE MARINE Working alongside Plymouth Marine Searching for a boatyard capable of carrying out all the repairs to his boat on one site, Dennis Mallett, an enthusiastic boat owner came across Tony Hole Marine. They were the only company Dennis found able to carry out all the various repairs that his boat needed under one roof, and he was so impressed that he decided to leave a 40 year career in telecommunications, and joined Tony as a partner 7 years ago. Together they set out to restructure and expand the company in order to maximise its potential. Having found a larger boat yard they needed a suitable building. The first two storey design was rejected by the Urban Design Team who wanted something more impressive for the eastern gateway to the city. The final landmark building is beautiful, designed over three storeys on a nautical theme with strong curved roof lines outlined in blue.

are regularly commissioned to supply bespoke boats and jet skis to the super yacht market. Tony Hole Marine are a well regarded brokerage with a huge choice of second hand and used boats, engines, skis and new boats for sale, and are authorised dealers for most of the top manufacturers including honda, seadoo and mercury. They export boats and jet skis all over the world, to countries as far afield as Lebanon, Russia, Germany and the Far East. In short, whatever your boating needs follow Dennis’s example, come to Tony Hole Marine.

Plymouth Marine Centre Pomphlett Quay, Billacombe Road, Plymouth, Devon PL9 7HP Call: 01752 40 70 70 Visit: www.tonyholemarine.com www.plymouthbatterycentre.co.uk Your local specialist in sales and supply of lead acid batteries. We fulfill the need for fast, efficient and continuous supply.

The company are extremely proud of their work maintaining and adapting, sometimes for amputees, the jet skis the Royal Navy and Royal Marines use for their rehabilitation programmes. The large workforce is made up of specialists, all factory-trained and driven by a desire to meet the highest possible standards of workmanship and finish. The standard of work means that they

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Trading as two separate businesses, Plymouth Marine owns the building, the boatyard, moorings, storage, and related business. Tony Hole is a marine engineering business and deals with fitting out, parts, and various light commercial applications. They look after the enviroment agency fisheries fleet which is managed on a national basis through various sub contractors and Devon and Cornwall Police’s dive rib. They are the second line of support for specialist boats used by the MOD and for those used by the Devon and Cornwall Police.

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Wolferstans Commercial Department are pleased to be connected with Tony Hole Marine Limited and congratulate them on their successes and achievements. Deptford Chambers, 60-66 North Hill, Plymouth PL4 8EP (01752 663295) Also at 7 Radford Park Road, Plymstock, Plymouth PL9 9DG (01752 401515) www.wolferstans.com

Free initial meeting

Parkhurst Hill are proud to support Tony Hole Marine 25

Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 16:38 Page 26

PC Motors THE passion that drove David Challenger to forsake school for his local garage apprenticeship placement aged just 15, is the one that’s the driving force behind PC Motors more than 20 years later. “They sent me home to wait until I was 16,” remembers the company’s owner of the time he left education during exam time, so eager was he to enter the world of cars. But once he’d started working with then owner Pete Crowley, there was no holding him. Six years ago he bought PC Motors and, since then, has also bought the next door Elm Road garage and Edwards Car Care Ltd, in Alma Vale Road, Clifton.

“I was taught by older people and I wanted to learn from them as much as I could as they had information and experience which money cannot buy,” he says. “We understand how precious clients’ cars are to them - it’s the most expensive purchase many make. “We treat all with the same respect, whether it is a cherished classic VW Beetle, a reliable Golf GTI, or an Audi A6 used for business.” That courtesy also extends to David’s acknowledgement of the support he’s received along the way. “My special thanks go to Danny Collins at GSF Car Parts, Bristol, for all his help and, of course, to all my customers for their support over the years,” he says. Importantly, business remains good despite the tough climate. “Quality counts,” Dave says. “Do the job properly and if you’re honest, genuine and know what you’re doing you’ll always succeed.”

For further information about PC Motors and its services, Visit: www.pcmotors.co.uk Email: enquiries@pcmotors.co.uk Call: 0117 9424746

Under the PC Motors banner, they are renowned, trusted and respected as Bristol’s leading independent Audi, Seat, Skoda and VW repairs specialist. “Cars are my life and my passion,” he declares. “They’re not a job. I love absolutely every second about what I do. I love dealing with customers, I love fixing cars, I love new products and anything to do with business.” That enthusiasm, coupled with David’s determination to run a quality business offering the very best service and competitive prices, makes PC Motors much in demand, with customers from all over the city - the majority through personal recommendation. He admits the Elm Road location isn’t best for passing trade but things have never been busier and when new customers do arrive, they tend to stay. “We’ve got customers from 1985 and people who will only buy a VW come to us,” reveals David. “They come because of what I try to do, I always ensure that we are as helpful and as passionate about everything as I can.” Whether it’s VAG vehicles for family runabouts to high performance, prestige marques, whether spare parts are required for a VW GTI, an old Volkswagen Beetle needs renovating, or someone wants their Audi TT race-tuned, PC Motors is first is the first choice for the vehicles’ owners. Services include: approved supply of parts and modified spares, bodywork, car servicing and yearly maintenance, diagnostics, repairs (including cam belts, clutch, exhaust, brakes and tyres), arranging MOTs and pre-MOT checks, performance enhancement, renovation sales and insurance appraisals, with courtesy cars available while owners’ vehicles are undergoing work. All are carried out by trained and qualified technicians and mechanics, each one of whom reflects David’s standards of quality service - something he is proud to have picked up on during his years of apprenticeship.

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Suppliers of Quality Rebuilt Manual & Automatic Transmissions, Transfer Boxes & Differentials We would like to wish PC Motors congratulations on their service

Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 16:38 Page 27

SPARKS AUTO SPECIALISTS Sparks Auto Electrical have been providing all aspects of auto electrical repair, plus a great range of vehicle security and entertainment products to Bristol and the surrounding areas including Bath and Weston-super-Mare for over 25 years. The company was set up in November 1986 as auto electrical specialists, and have many years experience in diagnosing and fixing problems in car electrics and vehicle management systems. Sparks’ experience means that they can often diagnose and fix many electrical problems without the need for an expensive garage inspection or a visit to a main dealer.

also help with keys, (they both supply and programme,) parking sensors, security alarms and immobilisers. At Sparks Auto Electrical Specialists, they provide a full range of auto electrical services. With over 25 years of experience, they offer cost-effective no –nonsense solutions for most vehicle electrical problems, and take pride in their high quality, efficient and reliable services for their public and trade customers.

Opening hours: Monday - Friday 9am - 6pm Shop: 67 Bell Hill Road St. George Bristol BS5 7LY Workshop: Unit 5 Deep Pit Road Speedwell Bristol BS5 7UZ Telephone: 0117 955 7084/0117 955 7085 Email: info@sparksautoelectrical-bristol.co.uk

Although they work mostly from their shop and workshop premises in Bristol, they also run a fleet of vans which carry large stocks of electrical components and spare parts. The vans can come to you wherever you may be for one of their qualified electricians to fix the problem by the roadside and get you moving again straightaway. Their secure workshop is able to hold many cars in containment whilst work is being undertaken. Vehicle ramps and full diagnostic equipment are all used within a safe clean working environment, repairing vehicles to the highest of standards.

mark richard

Commercial Insurance Liability Insurance Motor Trade Insurance

I N S U R A N C E

Proper ty Owners Por tfolio Insurance

Sparks Auto Electrical is founded upon many years of providing quality, efficient and reliable services to the public and trade customers. They can supply and install In Car Entertainment such as CD Players & Radios, they also specialise in installing Sat Nav and hands-free phone kits. Their expertise doesn’t just extend to cars; they work on boats, camper vans, mobile homes, heavy plant equipment and lorries too. If it has electrics, they’ll fix it! They fix: heater problems, electrical window motors, 12, 24 and 48 volt electrical problems, wiper motors, convertible roof motors, winch motors, starter motors, and alternators. They can

Congratulations to Sparks Auto Electrical on their Continued success. We at Mark Richard (Brokers) Ltd have been providing tailored commercial insurance solutions to Dean for over the last ten years

The Injection Centre

We are proud to support Sparks Auto Electrical

The Stonehill Centre Longwell Green Bristol BS30 9DH Tel: 01179353596 Fax: 0117 935 2391

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Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 16:38 Page 28

Norman Baker, Transport Minister said: “In order for fleets to make the shift to low carbon vehicles, the technology must be practical, cost-effective, scalable and reliable. Ashwoods meet all these criteria. We are working hard to reduce emissions from all sectors of transport, and the Low Carbon Vehicle Procurement Programme plays an essential role.”

Ashwoods driving fuel saving innovation There was great interest and excitement surrounding the launch at The Commercial Vehicle Show 2012 at the NEC of a low cost technology that helps van drivers become more fuel efficient. Lightfoot has been developed by Ashwoods Automotive Limited, the Exeter based multi award winners in the field of automotive innovation.

Ashwoods are celebrating a handful of awards for Innovation and are particularly proud to have come second only to Jaguar Land Rover for the prestigious SMMT’s 2011 Award for Automotive Innovation. The award, now in its second year, is designed to recognise and honour cutting-edge research and development work within the UK automotive sector. The awards champion industry innovation – promoting the cutting-edge automotive engineering and design that the UK is famed for around the world.

Lightfoot is a simple but effective system that works with a driver to get the best fuel consumption from their LCV. It talks to the driver and gives visual prompts to improve driver efficiency. Drivers intuitively alter their driving style to comply with the engine's most efficient zone, reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 18%. The subsequent improvements in driving standards also reduce accidents and improve both brake and engine wear.

For more information on how your company can reduce emissions and benefit from their technologies to reduce transport costs, please contact Ashwoods on 0845 6410716, go online at www.ashwoods.org or visit their new facility just outside Exeter.

Telephone: 0845 6410716 Email: info@ashwoods.org Visit: www.ashwoods.org Ashwoods Automotive Limited Hybrid House, 80 Summerway, Pinhoe, Exeter EX4 8DS

Head of Marketing, Victoria Davison explains, ‘Driver training teaches drivers to drive safely and efficiently but fleets see the benefits wear off quickly and bad habits return. Lightfoot takes care of this by being there to continuously remind the driver to drive efficiently which of course means lower fuel bills. It is an affordable product with a quick return on investment, essential in the current economic climate.’

LTD WATERJET AND LASER PROFILE CUTTING. WELDING AND FAB RICATION THE ONE STOP SHOP FOR PROFILES AND FAB RICATION.

Waterjet and laser cut Samples of Alloy & Steel

Omax Jetmachining centre, Cuts 99% of known materials.

‘We’ve done extensive independent trials and Lightfoot has been shown to give an average 14% fuel saving, the results speak for themselves’. Ashwoods are the UK’s leading provider of Hybrid LCVs, supplying fleets throughout the UK since 2003. This year the company is launching the second generation of hybrid drive trains with improved British engineered components. The Department of Transport is making funding available for the public sector under the Low Carbon Vehicle Procurement Programme, which is an initiative that aims to accelerate the introduction of greener technologies onto the UK vehicle market. Ashwoods will be supplying 500 vehicles this year under this programme.

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New 3kW fibre laser

Waterjet, Brass gears

Luffman Engineering Ltd., Ayshford Works, Westleigh, Tiverton, Devon EX16 7HL Tel: 01884 821076 Fax 01884 821536 Email luffman@eclipse.co.uk www.luffman.co.uk

Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 16:38 Page 29

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.ISTEVHM^MRK 3R 0MRI 7EPIW Companies Falling Down on their Delivery Promises are Jeopardising the Growth of On Line Sales GOOD communication and living up to delivery promises are key to sustained success for those offering online sales, according to two recent surveys. The studies, carried out by Prolog, one of the country’s leading privately owned communications and logistics outsourcing services companies, saw eretailers quizzed on a range of subjects, including what they offer and promise their customers regarding the delivery of their orders.

When it came to providing information, the survey found that, of those questionned, 30% of emails did not advise the expected delivery timescale for the product something of key importance to all online shoppers. Proactive customer service was even more lacking, with 60% of communications not allowing selfserve order tracking and 80% not containing a customer service contact to aid clients. Today’s fast-paced society also wants its items to be delivered more quickly - but the Prolog survey showed a huge variance in delivery promises.

CUSTOM ER SO LUTIO NS Online shopping is increasing in the UK, retailer’s delivery promises should be an important part of a retailer's plans for growth Today’s fast-paced society wants its items to be delivered more quickly

The average was 4.97 days, the best was one day and the worst was 14 days - yet, only 90.12% of the orders placed, as part of this survey, were delivered on time and within the retailer’s delivery promise.

They were also asked about how they communicated with clients during the goods order and despatch process. The surveys showed that while email is the medium of choice for the vast majority when sending out their order and despatch confirmations, information, such as the expected delivery timescale, was often lacking. And where details were provided, not only was there a wide variety in delivery promises, too many were failing to be met. The results have highlighted issues which the country’s online sales companies need to take on board, says Prolog Commercial Director Ian Dignum. "With online shopping being more popular than ever, this survey has found that there are positive lessons to be learned for all those who manage online sales within the UK,” he maintains. “They need to provide the right detail and communication channels to ensure that the customer experience is positive. “With so many companies trying to increase their market share, those that support their customers through all stages of the process will be the winners."

The studies also went on to show that customers are being charged on average £3.38 for standard delivery and £6.70 on average for the next day option. Furthermore, some e-retailers were looking to improve even further and 22.58% of those orders placed offered free standard delivery, but needed to have an average basket value of £72.86 to apply.

VISIT www.prolog.co.uk

"Online shopping is increasing in the UK and with challenges on the High Street, should be an important part of a retailer's plans for growth,” said Ian. “This part of our survey showed the significant range in promises to customers, that people will pay more for premium services, but, during the survey period, 9.88% of deliveries were not made within the retailers own promises - a figure that is simply too high to encourage customer loyalty." For more details on the survey visit www.prolog.co.uk

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Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 16:38 Page 30

Halls have recently added another service to their extensive range by opening a new fuel shop, based in Swindon, offering the latest in vehicle fuel system repairs and diagnostics! They carry out remanufacture or repair to diesel fuel injection pumps and diesel or petrol injectors throughout the South West including Bristol, Wiltshire Gloucestershire, and Oxfordshire, with a collection and delivery service for pumps, injectors and parts. Car, Commercial vehicle, Plant, PSV, Motorcycle and Marine are all catered for.

Established in the late 1970's Halls Auto Electrical has become the largest auto electrical service provider in the area. Working from their Bristol workshops and a new depot in Swindon, they are able to offer a range of services including general auto-electrical repairs, specialist commercial vehicle heating, air conditioning and vehicle security (VSIB approved) and a 24/7 breakdown service. Their remanufacturing department covers the whole range of rotating electrics including a same day repair service, with delivery and collection carried out by one of the express parts delivery vans. Being authorised main dealers for all major suppliers, means that all staff are trained to the exacting standards demanded by the staggering progress in motor vehicle technology. Reliability and prompt response times have led to ISO9002 accreditation. Halls’ impressive, long standing client list includes Police, Ambulance, Fire, MOD, Main Dealers, with many of whom they have worked for over 25 years, franchised garages, large and small fleet operators and, of course, the general public.

Hall’s also offer mains electrical contracting and cater for residential, commercial and industrial. We are NICEIC approved! The main business activities in this area are PAT testing, Annual maintenance (certificate provided), design and installation, Alarms, Air Conditioning. So call them next time you have an auto-electrical requirement. You won't be disappointed!

Call Us Now Bristol: 01454 319722 Swindon: 01793 870877 Email: matt.h@hallselectrical.co.uk

auto electrical parts We value our association with Hall’s Electrical Limited and congratulate them on their 30 years anniversary. Please ask them for a copy of our latest 2012 catalogue containing over 3000 products.

Gordon Equipments Limited Tel: 01255 555200 Fax: 01255 555222 E-mail: sales@durite.co.uk

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DAWS transport DAWS Transport – You promise, we deliver! Its smiles all round when dealing with DAWS Transport Services Ltd - from customers and staff alike. Dealing with the family-owned Bristol-based transport and logistics company leaves customers beaming at its quality, flexibility and efficiency but also because of the manner of every team member who is fully signed up to its ethos of good oldfashioned customer service. Daren and Amanda are a husband and wife partnership that head the team based in Kingswood, Bristol. Established by Daren in 1994 what was originally a ‘one man and a van’ operation has since become a sought-after 24/7 transport and logistics company with a big reputation for handling big things, even though it retains its small, family-owned status.

“We handle large or small orders from large and small companies one of our key strengths is our ability to be flexible,” Daren points out. “Customers inform us of their needs and we make sure it happens. We deliver our customers promise to their customers.” Having enjoyed a better-than-expected 2011, the DAWS Transport team is looking forward to a good 2012 but, no matter how good that gets, they are determined that the family-friendly status and personal approach will not falter. Daren says” It goes without saying that we are loyal to our customers and in return we find that our customers are loyal to us.” Daren, Amanda and the team would like to thank their existing customers for their loyalty in business over the years and long may it continue, Daren adding: “We welcome new customers to experience the flexible and professional service that our current customers receive.” To celebrate their success DAWS Transport are pleased to offer 10% discount to new customers throughout March and April 2012 (excludes bespoke service).

To enquire how DAWS Transport Services can be of service to you, Call Daren on 07831 650 691 (phone manned 24/7) or Mandy on 07901 944 561 alternatively email dawstransport@aol.com

The company initially specialised in same-day transport across the UK and into Mainland Europe - and continues to do so. Over the years it has also successfully branched into storage, point-ofsale installation work and exhibition/event logistics. Daren and Amanda work tirelessly within the core team of staff to ensure that everyone provides a high quality service across the board. It’s in all these areas that the DAWS team is determined to continue excelling throughout 2012, while looking to expand further into the exhibition and events sector. With Daren fully recognising that one size does not fit all, the key word for the company is ‘bespoke’. “I’m proud that we offer a bespoke service, I welcome new and existing customers to call me with their requirements so I can tailor-make a service to meet their needs,” he says.

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Amanda adds: “Daren is highly skilled at logistics. Such is his commitment to doing the job in the best way possible; he is even prepared to buy specialised vehicles for long-term contracts”. The caring detailed approach has paid dividends, with nearly all the business coming through recommendation earning the company a loyal base of customers within industries such as flooring, building and fabrication, vending, recycling and confidential waste, NHS, high-end furnishings, installations, exhibitions and events. DAWS Transport is also proud to support a selection of local charities in providing them with a free delivery service within Bristol and the surrounding areas.

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DAWS DA WS transport 31

Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 16:38 Page 32

Whether it’s designing a complete system from scratch or a just a single aspect of it, Crown Conveyors can provide the perfect mechanical handling solution and has been doing so for more than two decades - getting the last 25 years under its belt so to speak.

LIKE the thousands of cakes and breads which it helps to speed through production processes, Crown Conveyors has seen demand for its expertise rise and rise.

Also serving the pharmaceutical and packaging industries from its offices and factory in Kingswood, the company has tackled projects as diverse as a single belt conveyor to designing the layout, manufacturing the conveyors, installing the equipment, sometimes around a customer’s current production operation, and supplying and commissioning the controls system.

The ready meal boom, the chilled sector and the always busy chocolate/sweets industry have all called on the Bristol company to resolve their conveying solutions.

Says Tony: “We work with clients to engineer conveying solutions to achieve maximum productivity in a variety of fields. “These have involved handling products ranging from milk to breakfast cereals, from frozen ready meals to hot liquid caramel, from pre-printed phone cards to cans of paint and from tablets to test tubes. The Crown Conveyors team: Seated, left: Tony Hinton, MD, Tara Hawker, marketing manager. Standing (left to right): David Love, controls engineer, Robin Jackson, Workshop supervisor, Ian Tomlins and Kevin White, project managers. Now, with the food industry generally experiencing growth in new products, especially the bakery/cake sector, the order book continues to bulge.

“Because we manufacture from scratch, we have a highly skilled team of 20 who take due care and diligence when creating them, thus making our conveyors future proof. “Our approach is to first get a comprehensive understanding of your objectives and then develop the solution.� That process, he continues, will also include a site survey, delivery, installation, commissioning and vital backup and aftersales service, with every project fully supported by full CE documentation and spares list. “We also provide a 'peace of mind' service, guaranteeing a fast response to breakdowns of any manufacturer's products,� Tony adds.

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Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 16:39 Page 33

“We offer extensive stocks of standard parts and fast access to non-standard items and a competitive hourly rate.”

“If you think about it, probably the sandwich you are eating has gone down one of our conveyors!”

With such benefits as this, it’s no surprise its manufacturing and engineering ethos have led to Crown Conveyors becoming known as the “Rolls Royce of the industry”, but the company has further badges of honour through nationally recognised quality benchmarks such its Sedex membership and SPA approval.

For further information about Crown Conveyors and its services, go to www.crownconveyors.com To make an enquiry, telephone 0117 967 1370 or email mail@crownconveyors.com

It’s also been awarded, for the eighth year running, SAFEcontractor status for its health and safety, holds approved contractor status for several major food producers and is a regular contributor to the convenience foods industry website readymealsinfo.com. Such a prestigious reputation brings prestigious customers and Crown Conveyors works regularly with well-known brands like Premier Foods, Cadbury, United Biscuits and Heinz, but Tony is quick to point out that all clients are highly valued. “We not only serve the major companies but also the small food manufacturers,” he states.

Excel Precision was formed in 1978, born of the need for specialised spark-machining service using wire spark erosion and standard spark-erosion machines of the finest Swiss quality. Andrew Innes, joint Managing Director, has been with the company for 27 years; 9 years ago Andrew and his colleague Mervyn Bishop bought the business from the previous owner, moving the company a year later to its own purpose built premises at Sabre Close Gloucester. Andrew and Mervyn have 60 years experience of the industry between them; their 9 very experienced staff have all been with them for a long time, 20 years plus in most cases. These levels of skill and experience mean that they are able to offer advice and guidance based on some 120 years of collective experience in wire spark erosion and spark machining. They work at the forefront of precision engineering, developing and prototyping parts particularly for the aerospace industry, where they have specialist knowledge regarding the machining of servospools, fuel-metering systems, aerofoil gauging, involute spline’s which cannot be machined conventionally or broached due to hardness or application and any identifiable components where metallurgical structures are important. Excel Precision is called upon whenever an engineering project requires a thorough, detailed approach, and an in depth knowledge of the properties of the materials being used. Formula One motor racing is yet another area where the stresses on the component need to be factored in very precisely and Excel Precision’s expertise is highly valued.

They are able to help with any wire spark erosion or sparkmachining application from the manufacture of sample components, batch production through to design and manufacture of any tooling including fine blanking, multi-slide and high tolerance multi-stage progression tooling. Their use of the latest CAD facilities enable the import of drawing files such as DXF, IGES, DWG and STEP files, to their computing systems enabling them to reproduce customer designs. Whatever your precision engineering problem, contact them with confidence.

Call: 01452 419743 / 01452 500775 Email: andy@excel-precision.co.uk 8Vhh HiZe]Zch

Call to arrange a financial review

01452 381880

THE COMPLETE INSURANCE SERVICE

Cass-Stephens Life & Pensions Ltd are proud to support Excel Precision and we wish all the best for the future. www.cass-stephens.co.uk

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SPILLER ARCHITECTURAL IRONMONGERY LIMITED Spiller started as a small hardware shop in Sherborne, Dorset about 200 years ago, and has been trading as an architectural ironmongery and locksmithing business since 1970. The company relocated to their current purpose built premises which comprise offices, warehouse and a trade and retail showroom, in Yeovil, in the late 1980s. The current owners, Wilson Marshall and Chris Pearse, acquired the business in February 2007.

Wilson acknowledged, that a business which provides services to the construction industry was bound to find 2008 – 2010 very challenging, but is delighted by the strong growth the business has shown in 2011, driven in part by their new e-commerce website. The thing all their customers have in common is the search for distinctive ironmongery not easily found elsewhere.

SPILLER ARCHITECTURAL IRONMONGERY LIMITED

Oxford Road Pen Mill Trading Estate Yeovil Somerset BA21 5HR Tel: (01935) 432929 Fax: (01935) 432386 Email: sales@spillerai.co.uk Visit: www.spillerai.co.uk

As members of the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers Spiller are able to supply and design for a broad market. They are frequently called upon to provide technical advice and ironmongery supply by architects and contractors to a diverse range of sectors including health, education, commercial, retail and joinery/carpentry, all to be compliant with the latest British Standards. They have carried out many projects for one-off bespoke houses and are very proud of their collaboration with contractors to The National Trust, particularly conservation work carried out at Tyntesfield House near Bristol.

Roberts & Co (Bristol (Bristol)) Ltd. Chartered Accountants Accountants and Registered Auditors

Wee are proud to support W Spiller Architectural Ironmongery 24 High Street . Chipping Sodbury Sodbury . Bristol . BS37 6AH t: 01454 322122 f: 01454 322177 e: accountants@roberts-co.co.uk

Although a regionally-based independent company Spiller has been successful in building long-term supply relationships on a national basis to high profile customers like the RNLI and New Look fashion stores. Spiller is also a member company of the Master Locksmiths Association and has their own master locksmith (and junior locksmith) on-site, which provides fast turnaround of master key systems and cylinders. They manage the master key suiting for many of their national and regional accounts, and have started to offer a full installation service.

34

T: 01922 620 026

Kirkpatrick has been manufacturing antique ironwork from its foundry since 1855. Located in the heart of England we have preserved the integrity of our traditional manufacturing processes. Manufactured to the highest quality Kirkpatrick products last a life time. For more information visit:

www.kirkpatrick.co.uk

Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 16:58 Page 35

ALAN DAVIS AUTOMATICS WHEN it comes to supplying the South West of England with amusement machines, the region has its very own pinball wizard - Alan Davis Automatics. One of the largest independent operators in the area, chances are if you’ve pitted your wits against a quiz machine, cued up for a spot of pool, spun a few tracks on a juke box or even nudged your way to a several hundred pounds jackpot, the machine you’re playing on will have been hired from Alan Davis Automatics. This is where business meets pleasure, with the company supplying for rental or hire, fruit machines, quiz machines, pool, air hockey and football tables, CD or digital jukeboxes, background music systems, video games, redemption machines, punchball machines and children’s rides to pubs, caravan and camping sites, social clubs and other licensed establishments throughout Somerset, Devon and Cornwall. It was launched back in the 1950s by Alan Davis, as a small family concern but today, with his son Howard at the helm, employs 45 staff and has a headquarters on the Old Woods Trading Estate, in Torquay, and another office at St Austell, in Cornwall. A member of the Independent Operators Association and regulated by the Gambling Commission, it also operates an Alan Davis Pool League at participating licensed establishments throughout Cornwall while its expert service team is on hand to provide cover in the event of any problems with a machine every day of the year except Christmas.

and it continues to provide the very latest entertainment equipment out there - while charting the technological changes. Many people fondly remember a jukebox’s automatic selection of a vinyl single and flipping it down on to a turntable - but these kinds of music makers eventually gave way to the arrival of the CD format that, in turn, proved relatively shortlived. Today, jukeboxes no longer rely on CDs but a computer hard drive which stores thousands of tracks in MP3 form, thus making it possible for a vast collection of tracks to be held in a machine’s library. A full range of these newest kinds of jukeboxes is available from Alan Davis Automatics and venue bosses can choose among those which have up to 30,000 tracks at their disposal or the ability to search the internet from an online library of 2.5 million. All of the company’s fruit machines come with a note changer facility while some have a note recycler option and there are separate ranges for pubs and for social, football and private members clubs and other licensed premises with a variety of jackpot options that can be tailored to individual requirements.

To see the company’s full range of amusement machine equipment and the different options available, go to www.alandavisautomatics.co.uk To make an enquiry, telephone 01803 612261

GESTURE BASED TOUCH SCREEN INTERFACE SEARCH THROUGH MILLIONS OF TRACKS ONLINE

Right from the start, the company set out to supply the latest amusement machines available, bringing in the first of the original semi electronic fruit machines as well as the children’s rides and pinball machines that were were popular during those early days,

EVERY TOP 40 CHART SINCE 1960 BINGO, SPORTS ADVERTS, PUB QUIZ, MANAGERS PHOTO DISPLAY, EVENTS GUIDE, LAST FM INTEGRATION, PLUS MANY MORE FEATURES!

SOUND LEISURE BRITISH BUILT JUKEBOXES AVAILABLE FROM ALAN DAVIS AUTOMATICS Tel: 01803 612261 www.alandavisautomatics.co.uk www.soundleisure.com

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Hawkins Insulation Ltd ONE of the first companies in the Bristol region to carry out asbestos removal works under licence, Hawkins Insulation Ltd has always been an industry pioneer. Nearly 30 years after its very first contract, the family business is now one of the most respected around when it comes to the dealing with the dangerous substance - with its thermal insulation services also much in demand. From day one, managing director Keith Hawkins focussed on providing clients with a service that conformed to the highest standard, at competitive prices and in compliance with their specific requirements. It’s a policy that’s never wavered and today, as always, tasks are undertaken in a conscientious and workmanlike manner, fully in accordance with British Standards, Codes of Practices, Company Health and Safety procedures and established good working practices. There’s also official recognition of the quality ethos - the company, based in Hengrove, Bristol, is a member of the Thermal Insulation Contractors Association (TICA) and its Asbestos Control and Abatement Division (ACAD), the Federation of Master Builders, the Guild of Master Craftsmen and an approved register contractor for Exor Management Services Group, Safe Contractors, Contractors Plus and the Contractors Health & Safety Scheme. Keith himself is one of the industry’s leading experts and has had several prestigious roles through the involvement with TICA, including the chairmanship of its South West and South Wales region, as representative and director on its governing council and a member of its financial and general purposes committee. “Our reputation as a leading asbestos removal and thermal insulation specialist contractor has been built on experience, fairness, personal service and a professional thoroughness with nothing left to chance,” he says. “Given the opportunity, we will provide a first-class service every time.” The company has undertaken work for some of the region’s most well known names, including Lloyds TSB Bank, Boots the Chemist and Wessex & Bristol Water.

materials and finishes, including rigid PVC, Polyisobutelene and aluminium and galvanised steel, which is prefabricated in its own workshop. One of its most successful projects involved installing insulation and fabricated aluminum cladding to two large hospital water storage tanks located between a link road and housing in Taunton for Water Pure Systems Ltd. Its ability to complete the work to the required health and safety standards and the satisfaction of all involved without causing any disruption to either road or properties, resulted in high praise from the customer. Hawkins Insulation is first on everyone’s list when it comes to dealing with asbestos, its expertise and free advice when it comes surveying for and ensuring the safe removal of the substance proving invaluable. But neither do the experts rest on their learned laurels. Keith explains: “As asbestos work increases in technological complexity, the more professional the management team has to be and staff regularly attend external training and in-house meetings where they are briefed on latest legislation. “With this in-depth knowledge, we can ensure there is no contravening the law and that all work undertaken complies with Health and Safety requirements - giving you more breathing space.”

For further information about Hawkins Insulation Ltd’s full range of services, go to www.hawkinsinsulation.co.uk Alternatively telephone 01275 839500 or email dean@hawkinsulation.co.uk www.ekinsonline.co.uk

Trade and myriad local authorities make up the bulk of its client list, but it also welcomes enquiries from individual householders. When it comes to insulation, Hawkins Insulation has everything covered, with trained engineers able to install a wide range of

EKINS & CO Accountants specialising in the smaller business We are proud to support Hawkins Insulation and wish them all the best for the future.

01793 642577

Payroll VAT Accounts Production Limited Company Formations Business Services

admin@ekinsonline.co.uk 1 Cricklade Court, Cricklade Street Old Town, SWINDON Wiltshire SN1 3EY

We will tailor our services to your requirements

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Their environmental credentials have led them to achieve the ISO 14001 accreditation. This helps EPC minimise how their operations negatively affect the environment, ensures that they comply with applicable laws, regulations and other environmentally oriented requirements, and continually improve in the above endeavours.

EPC Direct, based in Bedminster, Bristol, is a professional printing company dealing with the commercial end of the print market. The company has been built on a triple foundation of competitive pricing, outstanding customer service and manufacturing excellence. Customer service is a key element of their offering: they really listen to their customers’ requirements, taking the time to understand what the customer is hoping to achieve. Checking every step of the way ensures customer satisfaction and actually saves time in the long run.

ISO 14001 certification is also a proven business winner with most certified organisations. EPC Direct are also ISO 9001 accredited, which is an international quality management standard, rapidly becoming the most widely recognised and adopted worldwide. Companies looking for highly professional service, a perfect print job from a company with environmental credentials second to none, delivered on time, on budget should look no further than EPC Direct, one of Bristol and the South West’s best kept secrets.

For further details Visit: www.epcdirect.co.uk Call: 0117 9666123 Email: sales@epcdirect.co.uk Come and find us 2 Stafford Street | Bedminster | Bristol | BS3 4DA

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¨ They have recently invested a massive £4.5 million in state-of-the-art Heidelberg printing and finishing equipment which has revolutionised the business. The Heidelberg XL105 12 colour perfecting press with Inpress inline closed loop colour management is capable of achieving 600% faster job-to-job make ready times and 25% faster production runs. With all key equipment being automatically set up from an electronic job ticket and with a management information system that allows for real time data collection, production work at EPC Direct is incredibly fast and impressively accurate. All work is printed to the ISO 12647-2 target and is always available for audit or inspection. This level of technical expertise has qualified them for membership of the Heidelberg Colour Club, which is a small and exclusive list of UK printers that have passed the Heidelberg ISO 12647-2 certification program. The speed, accuracy and quality of their work have attracted some impressive major accounts including Northern Rail, 10 Downing Street and Audi. They are constantly striving for excellence and are at the forefront of their industry, with a rolling programme of training and investment. EPC is proud to have achieved accreditations in environmental awareness and sustainable management of resources. These include the FSC (Forestry Stewardship Council) accreditation, which promotes responsible management of world forests, and the PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification schemes) Chain of Custody accreditation, which tracks certified materials from origin through to the end user.

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Specialists in waste control to the printing, photographic and healthcare Industries Protecting your environment ENVIRONMENTAL for future generations J&G Environmental are proud to support EPC Direct Ltd and wish them all the best for the future

Holland Way | Blandford Forum | Dorset | DT11 7TA t: 01258 453445 f: 01258 450991 e: sales@jg-environmental.com

www.jg-environmental.com

Congratulations to EPC Direct Limited

HLI is a leading broker delivering insurance solutions to businesses and individuals throughout the UK. As part of the CCV group we have access to a wide range of specialist markets and products. HLI (UK) Ltd Wessex House 4 Greystoke Business Centre, Portishead, Bristol, BS20 6PY

HLI (UK) Ltd is part of the CCV Group. Registered in England number 3976900. Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Services Authority. 522/C29/AD/03.12/EPC

Tel: 0844 5790064 Fax: 01275 843505 Email: info@hlib.co.uk Web: www.hlib.co.uk

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Avalon Surfacing Ltd IF anyone knows about the road to success it’s Avalon Surfacing and Construction Ltd. The family-run Somerset business has been trading for more than 35 years and continues to prosper, despite the tough economic climate. From private drives to large commercial projects, the Avalon expertise is the first choice for both the private individual and major company. It’s not all on the surface either - the company also handles civil engineering, coloured/resin bound surfacing, brick paving and line marking.

“Our latest project is the construction of an access road and parking areas for Hellerman Tyton, at Plymouth and we recently laid a new cycle way and footpath for Summerfield Developments near Westlands at Yeovil.” Clients know that when Avalon is on board for their scheme, they’ll only be getting the best. The company is accredited by CHAS, Constructionline, EXOR and SAFEcontractor and has been a member of the Federation of Master Builders since 1986. It has also been awarded two Top 100 site accolades from the NHBC and is certified to lay "Mastertint" coloured surfacing. “We aim to provide a complete service, whatever your requirements, from driveway design - whether your choice is tarmac, paving, resin or even gravel - through to completion,” assures Peter. “You can rest assured your choice of surface will be expertly laid, using top quality materials, by our team of operatives, all of whom have NVQ Level 2 Qualifications in Road Surfacing and Construction.”

“We are a family run, flexible business with a staff of 15, capable of an excellent quality of work,” assures director Peter Allen. “During our 35 years in business we have been involved with numerous large and small projects and built up an extremely good reputation with a wide variety of respected clients. “We are fully experienced in all types of new and remedial road surfacing works, civil engineering contracts, car parks, school playgrounds, MUGA pitches and driveways.” Based near Langport, Avalaon has carried out schemes for Somerset County Council, The National Trust, Midas Construction, RG Spiller and Morgan Syndall, to name a few, and is anticipating another busy year in 2012.

A new red bitumen macadam driveway laid for the Grade I-listed Halswell House

Laying special coloured surfacing with clear binder at Taunton. “We have secured a number of medium to large contracts which will be carried out over the coming months and alongside these we will be resurfacing a number of private driveways and roads,” reveals Peter.

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No matter what your scheme, the friendly, flexible team at Avalon is keen to hear from you and is more than happy to provide free advice, consultation and quotations.

Avalon Surfacing Ltd

If you’re not sure about the design of a driveway, they’re happy to come and discuss things in situ and if your scheme includes excavation, kerbing, drainage or ironwork adjustments, again, the company can help.

SOMERSET LANDSCAPES LIMITED UNIT 5 BARDEL COURT EDWARD CLOSE HOUNDSTONE BUSINESS PARK YEOVIL, SOMERSET BA22 8RU

“Whether you have a large contract, or a small driveway, please contact us and let us give you our professional advice,� says Peter.

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For more information please

Tel: 01935 471734 Fax: 01935 413681 Email: somersetlandscapes@yahoo.co.uk

Call: 01458 241611

www.avalonsurfacing.com Email: avalon.surfacing@zen.co.uk

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Cook Way | Bindon Road | Taunton | Somerset | TA2 6BJ

Call:

01823 289 950

ROADMARKINGS

... specialists in roadmarking

independent roadmarking contractor

Free quote & site survey Competitive price High quality, visible reflective markings assured

Quality Line Marking & Surface Treatments SPORTS GROUNDS PLAYGROUNDS FACTORIES CAR PARKS

We are part of the WJ Linkline Group the largest

SOUTH WEST

“

We are proud to be associated with Avalon Surfacing & Construction www.wjroadmarkings.com and congratulate them on 35 years in business!!

�

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MORRIS & PERRY LTD GURNEY SLADE QUARRY Morris and Perry are an independent manufacturer of construction materials, based at Gurney Slade Quarry, Radstock, in Somerset.

Customers can always speak directly to someone on the ground who will have an in depth knowledge of the local materials and be able to give their queries a direct answer, or know someone who will.

Unusually, in a field dominated by large corporations, Morris and Perry have retained their independence and are proud to still be family owned. The company specialise in the supply of aggregates, ready mixed concrete, and asphalt. With over 80 years experience in the local building materials market they offer unrivalled levels of service, quality and value.

Unlike many companies who have retained their traditional standards, Morris and Perry have maintained an ongoing programme of investment and development. By keeping up with modern building regulations and requirements all their products are supported by full product conformity and quality assurance certification. A new concrete plant at Priorswood was commissioned in the nineties, to provide high quality concrete for customers in the Taunton area, and with the beginning of the new Millennium, Morris & Perry began production of asphalt at Gurney Slade. Further upgrading of the concrete blockworks was carried out to improve output and quality. Due to all this investment and improvement, Morris and Perry proudly achieved ISO 14001 (Environmental Management System) throughout the company.

For professionalism, service, expertise and value, contact your local supplier of quality building materials, Call: 01749 840441 Fax: 01749 840361 Morris & Perry (Gurney Slade Quarries) Ltd Gurney Slade, Radstock. Somerset BA3 4TE. Quarrying has been carried on at the present site since the mid 19th Century, with larger scale works being carried on from 1928. Sidney Morris, a Chilthorne Domer based construction material producer, and customer of the quarry, purchased it in 1962 and ran the business in partnership with his son-in-law George Perry, hence the origins of the company name, Morris and Perry. The company began trading as a stone haulage contractor with just a single horse and cart, and developed throughout the Twenties with the introduction of motorised lorries. By 1930 the company began its first quarrying activities with the purchase of Tout Quarry at Charlton Adam, the site of the present Head Office. S. Morris remains their sister company, and produces concrete blocks at Tout Quarry Charlton Adam and ready mix concrete at plants in Yeovil and Taunton.

Morris & Perry Gurney Slade Quarries

supplying the mendips with

all grades of aggregates ready mixed concrete asphalt products delivered or ex-works for a prompt & competitive service from a local family owned company

Both companies adopted the distinctive yellow and green livery in 1975, and in 1994 the ownership of both companies transferred solely to Sidney Morris’s daughter’s family, and is now managed by his grandson, Brian Perry. This is a company who always put their customers first and feel that their success is due in no small measure to that personal touch.

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www.morrisandperry.co.uk

Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 16:59 Page 41

the 2012

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+SSH *SV &YWMRIWW# In this Budget the Chancellor pursued the objectives set out in November 2010’s Plan for Growth, part of the Government’s strategy to create a climate in which business could flourish, by removing the barriers that had held back growth in the UK. Their intention is to create the most competitive tax system within the G20; making the UK the best place in Europe to start, finance and grow a business. The government aims to encourage investment and exports in order to balance the economy.

£77,000 per year will be allowed to change their accounting, from the established accrual method, to a system where tax is calculated on money actually received rather than on forward orders. Giving small businesses, the backbone of the economy, something to actually address some day to day concerns, is widely welcomed. The integration of income tax and national insurance, which was announced in last year's Budget, should also help simplify bookkeeping. While the increase in personal allowances should make more spending power available, hopefully, boosting the retail sector.

Although this budget has made some progress towards these goals, it has received a mixed welcome from businesses. The further reduction in Corporation Tax has been broadly welcomed; the extra one percentage point reduces the rate to 24%, one of the lowest rates among developed economies. George Osborne has indicated further reductions still, 22% by 2014 and ultimately down to 20% - aligning it with the basic rate of income tax and the tax rate levied on small businesses. By making our corporate tax system more internationally competitive, the Chancellor hopes to encourage inward investment, and by attracting businesses to the UK, job creation. However, many business leaders would have preferred the Chancellor to go further, faster. Small businesses get a boost from the simplification of tax systems for small business, changing the way in which they have to calculate their tax payments. From April 2013, companies with sales of up to

It was disappointing that the planned increase in Fuel Duty of 3.02 pence per litre will still take effect on 1st August, driving up costs and hitting the road transport industry particularly hard. The increase signals the government’s determination to pursue its policy of “greening the business fleet”, and means that businesses should seriously consider the carbon foot print of their fleet in order to control costs. The lower tax thresholds for low emission vehicles, and The Low Carbon Vehicle Procurement Programme, a scheme to help local authorities to buy more fuel efficient vehicles, confirm the government’s commitment to reducing emissions.

CUS TOME R SOLUTIONS The governments intention is to create the most competitive tax system within the G20; making the UK the best place in Europe to start, finance and grow a business

They have also made a further reduction in Corporation Tax

Small businesses get a boost from the simplification of tax systems

VISIT www.decc.gov.uk www.hmrc.gov.uk www.hm-treasury.gov.uk

Our regional airports are very important to the local economies and contribute to jobs and growth. Aviation industry officials fear that increases in Air Passenger Duty, will damage the tourism industry and jeopardise the recovery of the economy as a whole. Only time will tell, if the Chancellor’s strategy will prove to be justified, and if this rather mixed Budget will, in fact, be “Good for Business.”

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Jackie says “We will maintain close relationships with our existing customers – however big or small, ranging from cottage industries and local beekeepers, to multi million turnover companies; and by building on Rawlings’ excellent reputation and customer service, spanning 162 years, develop and expand the business”.

ESTABLISHED 1850 Fresh faces at Rawlings and Sons; since the beginning of 2012 Rawlings is being led into a new and exciting phase by newly appointed MD Thomas Wood. The company’s change of management follows the retirement of two directors towards the end of last year. Although neither the new MD, nor his new General Manager came from the glass packaging industry they are bringing fresh skills and areas of expertise to this well established company of glass merchants.

The new MD, Thomas Wood, comes from a background in consulting and business transformation and his new General Manager Jackie Powell comes from the small business, wholesale sector.

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Rawlings success has been built on expertise, customer service and flexibility. They offer an unrivalled service within the glass packaging industry, customers can pick and choose services from sourcing, planning, production, decoration, supply and distribution - or take full advantage of the company’s knowledge and experience and use them to project manage the entire contract. The level of service they provide means that they supply several household names including Westons Cider, St Austell Brewery, Aston Manor, and Rowse Honey. Dealing with the packaging for a whole range of customers, large and small, their flexible, creative and proactive approach to service and quality has resulted in the award of ISO 9001 the principal internationally recognised standard for Quality Management Systems which is applicable to any type of business. Many major organisations, e.g. local authorities, reputable large companies, charities etc., insist on a company having ISO 9001 certification to achieve "preferred supplier" status, or simply to qualify to tender for their business. Rawlings is very proud of the commitment of their team, many of whom have been with the company for years, it certainly gives the customers confidence to speak to the same contacts and staff every time they call. The service Rawlings provides is comprehensive, completely bespoke, and dependent on your requirements. By using their world wide contacts to source the appropriate glass type, colour and style, they can tailor their service to your exact needs. Their buying power is such that they are often able to provide some of their smaller customers with glass packaging that would normally be well beyond budget.

Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 16:59 Page 43

They are able to supply bottles and jars as a full load quantity of 52 pallets or just a single pallet. On selected items, smaller boxed quantities from their standard range of products are also available. Standard colours are flint, amber and green - but they are happy to work with you to create bespoke designs.

Rawlings & Son (Bristol) Ltd, Cecil Road | Kingswood | Bristol | BS15 8NA For more information please

Call: 0117 960 4141 www.rawlings-bristol.co.uk

Massey Wilcox Transport Limited. Broadway, Chilcompton, Bath BA3 4JW 01761 232983 - www.masseywilcox.com

Massey Wilcox Transport Ltd are proud to support

Rawlings & Son And wish them every success for the future.

SE RVI C ES FINANCE SERVICES We are able to create innovative financial solutions that provide you with the equipment you need. USED TRUCKS We offer a wide range of used forklift trucks that provide a cost effective solution for many materials handling applications.

EVANS & PARTNERS chartered accountants 9 Bank Road - Kingswood - Bristol - BS15 8LS T: 0117 967 5215 F: 0117 935 2116 E: ep@evanspartners.co.uk

Evans & Partners Chartered Accountants are proud to support Rawlings & Son and wish them the best for the future Visit: www.evanspartners.co.uk

‘Bristol Forklifts Forklifts L td ‘Bristol Ltd wish Rawlings & Son wish pdf services continued continued success future’ success for for the future’

HIRE SERVICES As an authorised Mitsubishi dealer, we can offer a full range of forklift trucks for immediate short or long term contract hire.

Bristol Forklifts Ltd Gloucester Road, Patchway Bristol BS34 5BB

BRISTOL

Tel 0117.969.4141 Fax 0117.969.1211 Email info@bristolforklifts.co.uk

FORKLIFTS

www.bristolforklifts.co.uk

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The above two examples are just some of the more interesting projects handled by the small firm with a big and prestigious order book - but they don’t end there.

DIPEC

Dipec Plastics also made a 40ft canopy to protect dignitaries attending the final of the Rugby World Cup at the Millennium Stadium where the Queen presented the trophy, it won the commission to create cases for displaying balls, shirts, bikes etc at all Sports Café’ venues and, in the early years, also manufactured the Welsh BAFTA awards. Creating the unusual is all in a day’s work for the company, based on the Ely Distribution Centre, in Cardiff, which manufactures a vast range of products for a huge range of industries.

affordable acrylic products WHO’S the daddy when it comes to producing props for a hit TV series featuring a famous time traveller? Or, proved itself game, set and match to be the perfect provider to serve up a giant orange juice dispenser cover for use at Wimbledon?

Look no further than Dipec Plastics Ltd, the family firm which, since its launch in 1981, has grown to become Wales’s leading plastics fabrication company.

It’s not just Time Lords on Dipec’s prestigious client list - the company’s reputation has attracted orders from the likes of Techniquest, the National Museum, Cardiff University, Celtic Manor, GE Healthcare, the National Assembly for Wales and St David’s Hall. And, like a certain time travelling machine, what seems outwardly small is huge inside, in terms of services provided, creative thinking, quality products, professional approach and high levels of expertise. Working with acrylic, polycarbonate, PETG and other materials, Dipec Plastics, a member of the Shop and Display Equipment Association, provides CNC machining, flame and diamond polishing, bending, welding, cementing, drilling, engraving, manual routering, cutting and acrylic craftsmanship. “We pride ourselves on delivering quality, a comprehensive service and attention to detail,” says managing director Jason Callow.

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“Materials may be cut, shaped, bent, glued and formed to a very high specification. We are creative acrylic craftsmen and produce affordable acrylic products.�

For more information about Dipec Plastics Ltd and its range of services and products

Call: 0292 059 8393 Visit: www.dipec.co.uk Email: sales@dipec.co.uk

nice doing business with you! With five shopfloor fabricators/machinists and three office staff, the majority of which have been with Dipec for longer than 15 years, a vast bank of knowledge and experience goes into every fabricated product. “Our creative thinking is balanced with our in-depth knowledge of acrylics and plastics and their suitability,� says Jason. “Our drive to succeed and willingness to think outside the box enables us to undertake a project from concept to delivery and we work with clients to achieve a product that not only looks great, but is practical and affordable.�

call the business insurance specialists Many congratulations to Dipec Plastics for 30 proud years in business Manufacturing & Warehousing Contractors & Allied Trades Fleets & Commercial Vehicles Offices & Shops Liability Insurance Professional Indemnity

insurance

www.cotters.co.uk 01604 666777 insurance@cotters.co.uk

Cotters Insurance Services Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority Park House, Sandy Way, Northampton NN4 5EJ

Servicing your Business Community

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MacWhirter Established 1882

Nationwide we have four branches Bristol, Cardiff, London and Horsham. MacWhirter Ltd provides a cost effective maintenance service tailored to meet the specific needs of our customers. We realise that all businesses are individual. We have a high volume of engineers based locally in Bristol allowing us to be at any call within two hours. Our service ethos has enabled us to exceed service level agreements set out by our customers own requirements therefore reducing system downtime. All our customers have full access to our 24 hour manned helpdesk offering full engineering cover for all disciplines across our core business area. All of our engineers and staff are fully qualified in their field of expertise from design through to engineering. Our customer base includes Marks & Spencer, Boots, House of Frazer and Environment Agency. Locally our customers include United Bristol Healthcare Trust, Bristol Port Authority, Bristol City Council and Rolls Royce.

46

Our customer portfolio requirement ranges from single site single discipline to multi site multi discipline.

For further information please see our website

www.macwhirter.co.uk or contact Simon Gonsalves on 07976 345 366, simon.gonsalves@macwhirter.co.uk or twitter@simongonsalves

Your Y our local specialist in n the design, manufacture and installation tallation of ductwork and ventilation system systems ms No job is considered too big orr too small

Call us on: 0117 01 117 977 7996 6 f@krfmetals.co.uk k email: krf@krfmetals.co.uk

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MacWhirter Ltd have been operating since 1882, we specialise in the service and maintenance, design and installation of air conditioning, refrigeration, heating and ventilation systems.

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KRF Metals LTD LTD

www.krfmetals.co.uk www .krfmetals.co.uk uk

Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 16:59 Page 47

GAWLER

range are expanding foams and airtight tapes to help customers to comply with the latest environmental and ecological building regulations. Gawler Tapes are proud to announce that they will be launching their new web site www.gawlertapes.co.uk in April, illustrating some of the broad range of products that they are able to supply.

TAPES Not just another tape company, Gawler Tapes has built a reputation for providing solutions to their customers’ production and assembly problems. Gawler Tapes, established in 1984, is a specialist distributor of self adhesive tapes sourced from leading international manufacturers and used across a wide variety of industry sectors. Customers from industries as diverse as the automotive, engineering, construction, print-finishing and agricultural sectors have benefited from Gawler’s expertise in providing standard and custom made solutions. Clients from all over the country bring their processing issues to this South West company, relying on their technical expertise in producing shapes, gaskets and laminations combined with market knowledge to come up with practical solutions. If there is not a standard tape to suit the particular application Gawler are able to adapt products to provide a customised solution. Being a distributor/convertor Gawler are usually able to offer a next day service - a challenge which most manufacturers find hard to achieve.

GAWLER

The combination of world class products and many years of technical expertise mean that Gawler can satisfy most applications helping customers meet their production objectives. Their focus is to interpret and correctly identify their customer’s needs and promptly provide the most appropriate and effective solution.

TAPES 7 Easter Court, Woodward Avenue Westerleigh Business Park, Bristol, BS37 5YS

The fastest growing product group is the range of double sided tapes, with new applications constantly being developed. Products range from tissue and PVC substrates to sophisticated polyesters produced to fine tolerances. Adhesive types offered include plasticiser and UV resistant qualities many of which can cater for low surface energy substrates. Recently added to the

Telephone: 01454 324265 Fax: 01454 315158 Email: sales@gawlertapes.co.uk Visit: www.gawlertapes.co.uk

scapa.com 47

Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 16:59 Page 48

Exeter based Hydraulics and Pneumatics Experts, Derek Lane & Co Ltd is under new ownership.

original equipment parts and total systems to meet your requirements.

Having started the company over 30 years ago, Derek has made the difficult decision to retire and felt that his exit strategy was best served by selling the business. The daily management of the company will be the responsibility of Rob Woodley, Sales Director and Mark Venn, Operations Director, both of whom are shareholders and have worked with Derek for many years.

In addition to this we have our own test facilities, at our works or on-site, and we can identify problems with all Hydraulic and Pneumatic components. We also design and manufacture tailor made power units, test rigs and systems plus refurbish hydraulic cylinders, pumps and motors.

We expect the transition to be as seamless as possible and that the level of service and expertise you currently enjoy will be enhanced even further. Our name, address and contact details will remain unchanged. It is important to us that both our suppliers and customers receive the best possible care, therefore, in addition, our excellent work force will be on hand to answer any questions you may have.

Derek remains as a Director of the company and will also be happy to answer any questions if required. In recent years it has become very apparent that to stay ahead of the competition, companies need to diversify. To this end Derek Lane & Co Ltd have invested heavily in new and innovative ideas and solutions.

The team at Derek Lane & Co provides a complete problem solving service to those with needs in Hydraulics, Pneumatics, Process control and Industrial product areas. Our services in Design, Manufacture, Engineering and Sales are now all so well developed that we approach problems with complete confidence in our ability to overcome them. Appointed distributors and stockists for world leading Hydraulic and Pneumatic equipment manufacturers, we can supply

48

It is the wealth of collective experience of our staff that means we can offer real solutions in Hydraulic, Pneumatic and Process control problems within manufacturing and service industries.

Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 17:00 Page 49

For further information about Derek Lane & Co Ltd, why not visit their website at www.dereklane.co.uk

How to order

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Tel: 01869 326226 www.abacaircompressors.com ABAC UK, Unit 11, Granville Way, Chaucer Business Park, Bicester, Oxon OX26 4JT Fax: 01869 326216

e-mail: abac.enquiries@abac.co.uk

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Proud supporters of Derek Lane & Co Ltd. Certification & Services • • • • • • • • • • • • •

ISO 9001:2008 Fully Certified Coded Welders Full Material & Test Certification PED (97/23/EC) Hose Identification System/Full Traceability Fit for Nuclear NDA Nuclear CAD Drawings Liquid Dye Penetration (DPI) X-Ray Radiography NDT Cleaning to Oxygen Standard Same Day Delivery

www.metalflex.co.uk 49

Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 17/05/2012 12:27 Page 50

Bradshaw has grown into one of the UK’s largest importers and distributors of commercial specialised catering equipment and one of the leading distributors of luxury domestic kitchen appliances since being bought by Phil Bullivant in 2004. Bradshaw recently re-located to new premises in Clevedon, bringing the whole business under one roof. The company are very excited about the opportunities the increased space allows as it means that they can at last provide a working kitchen onsite. The Gaggenau working kitchen will host demonstration days and the area will also accommodate their range of Menumaster microwave and high speed ovens, enabling them to offer more of the training and support to their customers, on which they pride themselves. From advice and guidance on the right appliance to suit the job through to training and service and maintenance contracts Their commercial division is the exclusive UK importer and distributor for Menumaster microwaves, and for Retigo, specialists in combi steamers – cooking systems that can cook up to 900 meal portions, ideal for banqueting and high volume food; they are also the distributors for Liebherr, experts in environmentally friendly highly efficient refrigeration. Microwave ovens still remain at the core of the business and Bradshaw have stayed at the forefront of this technology, from low volume microwave ovens suitable for cafes and vending sites to high-speed cooking systems like the MXP serving top end restaurants, hotels and stadiums. The luxury domestic division specialises in the distribution of appliances to the kitchen specialist market, and is the exclusive distributor for ATAG, A-Line Extraction and California Grill by Lynx in the UK. They also supply luxury brands Vittoria, Gaggenau, Maytag, Liebherr, Steel Cuisine, and most recently, Fisher & Paykel, and Gorenje. They have a huge range of refrigeration, including American style refrigeration in an incredible range of colours and specifications.

programmes for commercial, industrial and public sector customers. They carry a full range of spares, parts and accessories and their engineers can offer a pick up or drop off service for clients in the Bristol area. They service commercial and domestic appliances of all makes and models, call their friendly service department who will be happy to help on 01275 343000. Bradshaw’s customers have the reassurance of dealing with a company that can supply a single appliance right through to the design, training, delivery, installation, and maintenance of a complete kitchen. They are very proud to have retained their valued staff and to have taken advantage of the opportunities to diversify and to enter new markets presented by the recent recession.

Bradshaw are members of CEDA (Catering Equipment Distributors Association) and Construction Line, are Safe Contractor Approved and as expected, comply with the UK WEEE Directive.

For more information please visit their website,

www.bradshaw.co.uk 01275 343000 Email sales@bradshaw.co.uk Call

173 Kenn Road Clevedon North Somerset BS21 6LH

Visit

Built-In Appliance Collection... exclusive to the Kitchen Specialist

ATAG are proud to support Bradshaw, and wish them the best of luck for the future

Bradshaw’s service division is accredited to ISO9002 and has over 30 years experience, they offer a competitively priced, next day call-out service for domestic and commercial appliances, and a range of planned and preventative maintenance

50

A PURE ALTERNATIVE

Tuition House

T 0208 - 247 - 3993

27-37 St. George’s Road

F 0208 - 247 - 3999

LONDON SW19 4EU

E-mail: atagsales@atag.co.uk

United Kingdom

www.atag.co.uk

Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 17:04 Page 51

fisher and paykel... are proud to support bradshaw and wish them all the best for the future

Call us today 0845 066 2200

Fisher & Paykel Appliances designs, manufactures

Our heritage dates to the 1930’s

and markets a range of innovative household

the founders encouraged a culture that

appliances developed with a commitment to

challenged conventional appliance design

technology, design, user friendliness and

and production systems.

environmental awareness.

Maidstone Road Kingston Milton Keynes MK10 OBD

www.fisherpaykel.co.uk

51

Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 17:04 Page 52

t s i l a ci e p S w a s n i a h C & y r e n i h Ga rden Mac The home of garden and forestry equipment It’s that time of year when we look at our gardens and make plans for the wonderful things we are going to do this year, perfectly pruned shrubs, and immaculately tended lawns. The bulbs are coming up in the borders, the shrubs and hedges are sprouting and the grass is growing… Ah yes, the grass. Those who checked and serviced or replaced their lawn mowers, hedge trimmers, strimmers etc at the end of last season are probably feeling pretty smug especially if they were supplied by or serviced at Radmore and Tucker. For the rest of us, it’s probably time for a visit.

For more information, and to see their fantastic product range

Visit: www.radmoreandtucker Telephone: 01392 254270 Email: sales@radmoretucker.co.uk or call in Radmore and Tucker Ltd. are a family company based in Exeter founded in 1955 by the father of the current MD, with over 50 years experience of selling garden and forestry equipment. They are major suppliers of both domestic and professional gardening and forestry equipment both to the trade and the private user, and are one of the largest suppliers of electric and petrol chainsaws in the UK. They also carry huge stocks of electric and petrol pedestrian mowers, ride-on mowers, strimmers, brushcutters, blowers, vacuums, hedgetrimmers, chippers, shredders, lawn care systems, two wheeled tractors, rotavators & cultavators.

They carry a full inventory of spares, safety clothing and accessories and have a fully equipped service department, in house. Radmore and Tucker are the place to go for all your gardening and forestry equipment needs. Their friendly experienced staff will make sure that you end up with the equipment that is most appropriate to fulfil your dream of that perfectly tended garden.

52

Radmore & Tucker Frog Street | Western Way | Exeter | EX1 1BR

Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 17:04 Page 53

scheme XS MQTVSZI

7XERHEVHW MR XLI &YMPHMRK -RHYWXV] A NATIONWIDE scheme to combat cowboy builders is being extended so that even more building companies can be accredited as shining examples of their industry. The Federation of Master Builders (FMB), the UK’s largest construction trade association, is inviting all its members to join TrustMark, (CORR) the Government-endorsed quality mark supported by consumer protection groups. Every member who signs up to the scheme must offer each client the option of taking out a warranty on any job costing more than £250.

The recently added criteria will bring even better and more rigorous protection for consumers as FMB members’ technical skills will be independently checked through regular on-site inspections, as well as checks on their trading record and financial status. Stuart Carter, TrustMark’s head of PR and Marketing, said: “It’s great news that the FMB is offering all of its members the opportunity to join the scheme, especially as they have played such a key role as the leading scheme operator for the construction industry. “We are here to help protect consumers and signpost them to trustworthy and reputable firms FMB members have got a lot to gain by signing up with TrustMark as more than three million TrustMark tradesmen’s details were viewed last year through our dedicated website.

CUS TOME R SOLUTIONS The Federation of Master Builders (FMB), the UK’s largest construction trade association, is inviting all its members to join TrustMark, (CORR) the Government-endorsed quality mark supported by consumer protection groups It has been a proven key tool in helping customers find reliable and trustworthy tradesmen in their area

“Many of these led to additional member leads and turned out to be a valuable route to growing their business.”

It has been a proven key tool in helping customers find reliable and trustworthy tradesmen in their area, plus a badge of quality but, until recently, was only available to Federation members who were signed up to its specialist building insurance, Build Assure, scheme. Now, all FMB companies are eligible to join TrustMark because, the Federation says, of the higher entry criteria it now demands of all its new members. Every business wishing to join the FMB is subject to its strict vetting process, which it must pass as the organisation only accepts builders and specialists who can prove their skills and are of good business standing. Applicants also must be prepared to work to a strict Code of Practice and commit to it every year when they renew their membership. Criteria for basic membership includes a minimum 12month trading history, the passing of credit, public record and director checks and two references, one from a client preferably with work in progress.

Brian Berry, the chief executive of the FMB, added: “We support any credible attempt to combat the cowboys. “The FMB provides services to help building firms run more effective and efficient businesses. “Joining TrustMark, as well as being an FMB member, is another way our members can stand out and give themselves a competitive edge as it demonstrates to consumers that their work has been inspected and they offer warranties.”

VISIT www.trustmark.org.uk www.fmb.org.uk

To find out more about the scheme, or to locate a TrustMark tradesman in your area, visit www.trustmark.org.uk. For more information about the Federation of Master Builders and details about how to become a member, go to www.fmb.org.uk.

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Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 17:05 Page 54

westofengland

care & repair

improving homes improving lives

IT’S the cold winter months that always highlight those vital repair jobs that need doing to ensure our homes stay warm, cosy and energy efficient.

others, some clients receive repairs to their homes for free but, wherever a charge is made, the charity works hard to ensure it is very fairly priced, keenly aware that many of its customers are on limited incomes. As well as its tried and tested Handy Person service, WE Care & Repair provides; • First Call advice line – to help clients understand what housing options are available and assisting in decisionmaking or signposting to other organisations and services. • Help with adapting homes - for bigger works involving specialist contractors. The charity can act as project manager to ensure the work is planned well and professionally carried out at a reasonable price with the clients’ needs paramount. • Hospital, GP and carer support - help after a stay in hospital and all the changes to care, support and home facilities that may ensue.

A leaking tap that can freeze in icy weather, an ill-fitting door through which whistles a chilly draught or the sudden awareness that the central heating boiler is not working as it should. Winter certainly focuses the mind on what’s needed to be done to keep out the cold - but not everyone has access to, or can afford, a tried and trusted handyman. Which is where, for thousands of people who are over 60 or disabled of any age, West of England Care & Repair comes in.

Bristol Care & Repair has made a big of being able to stay in comfort and warmth in my own home. The charity, which celebrated its silver anniversary in 2011 and whose patron is renowned Bristol architect George Ferguson, provides home maintenance and advice services to homeowners in South Gloucestershire, North Somerset and Bristol, enabling them to continue living independently in homes that are warm, safe, secure and adapted to their needs. Because it is funded by Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire councils, The Royal British Legion and many

54

• A trusted contractors list - to help clients find reputable and experienced local contractors who charge a fair price. The list is available to anyone wishing to organise the work themselves. West of England Care & Repair’s work is centred around its Handy Person service which uses 14 local mutli-skilled, CRB

A&J BUILDERS

are pleased to be associated with

We Care & Repair a: 19 Tweeny Lane, North Common, Bristol BS30 5JT m: 07836 757 448 t: 0117 967 2780

Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 17:05 Page 55

checked tradespersons who will carry out minor repairs at a client’s home – from changing a lightbulb to fitting grab rails and shelves or additional security, draft proofing etc. Explains Dave Masters, the charity’s Handy Person Manager: “You can ask for essential work, such as fixing a toilet that won’t flush or repairing a lock or basic jobs such as fitting a shelf or hanging pictures.

At all times, not only does West of England Care & Repair work hard to make the jobs affordable, it also prides itself on high standards, recently renewing its quality mark from the national regulatory body for core advice and agency handyperson services.

For further details on how it can help with repairs to your home or about any other of its services

westofengland

care & repair

i

Visit: www.wecareandrepair.org.uk

First Call

0117 954 2222

“We aim to respond within three days, or less for the more urgent repairs and up to three weeks for other jobs.” With’ safety always paramount, the Handyperson Service also includes free home safety checks, looking at a wealth of potential risk areas, including: • Security improvements. • Installing smoke alarms. • Repairing stiff doors. • Fixing stiff taps. • Replacing hard-to-reach light bulbs. • Fitting grab rails/stair rails or outside hand rails. • Securing loose carpets • Dealing with trailing wires

Call:

DOLPHINlifts The UK’s largest independent stairlift supplier

0800 169 3404

...just the lift you need W E S T E R N ltd

Stairlift and mobility experts

... just the lift you need! www.dolphinliftswestern.co.uk

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Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 17:05 Page 56

westofengland

care & repair

i

Opening Times “All the work was done in a week. The shower has made such a

Monday - Thursday: 9am - 5pm Friday: 9am - 4pm 5 Hide Market Waterloo Street, St. Phillips Bristol BS2 OBH

B E E lectrical

bee-electrical@hotmail.co.uk

Tel: 07813 637894 07975 514582 Fax: 0117 9090441

www.bee-electrical.co.uk BEE Electrical are Domestic, Commercial and Industrial electrical specialists. We are proud to support WE Care & Repair, and wish them luck for the future.

JK M bility Stairlifts Servicing & Repairs

We are proud to support We Care & Repair Bristol and wish them luck in the future 137 Finch Road . Chipping Sodbury . Bristol . BS37 6JB t: 01454 312141 e: sales@abacus-electrical.com

Affordable stairlifts New and Reconditioned Straight and Curved Stairlifts Buy out right - Rental - Palliative care Servicing - Breakdown and Repairs

Est 1986

HOLLYWOOD FRAMES LTD We are leading specialists in Double Glazing and uPVC Gutters Fascias & Soffits We also specialise in Conservatories

Tel: 01179 558949 Mob: 07817 221475 Email: jkmobility@blueyonder.co.uk

The Roofing g C O M P A N Y

www.theroofingcompany.co.uk k

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0117 9728 343

future futu re FOR THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTR INDUSTRY Y

Proud d to support We Care & Repai Repairr Email: : roofingco@btconnect.com Tel: 0117 950 2610 Fax: 0117 950 2620

Call us now on

Westside W estside Contracting Ltd

Proud d to support We Care & Repairr Email: westsidecontract@btconnect.com m Tel: 0117 950 8525 Fax: 0117 950 2620 0

Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 17:05 Page 57

. . . s w Britannia Windo ’s best kept secrets ! st one of the South We

We’ve W e’ve b been een a approved pp proved b byy Exor Exxorr a and nd C Constructionline onstructionline for nearly nearlly a de decade, cade a e,

iisn’t isn ’t it i ab about bout time ti you you asked ask ked us tto ke o tender tender d for f works? works? k ? t We now offer windows, We can no w off ffer er yyou ou A rrated ated windo ws, ffor o or maximum maxximum energy savings energy sa vings and an nd government government compliance. compliance. Did wee ccan even glazed windows? Did yyou ou kknow now w an ev en offer triple glaz ed windo dows?

Britannia W Britannia Windows indows has on one ne of the lar largest gest and most automated aut omated production production pla plants ants in the SSouth outh W West est of England,, which aff England affords ffor ords ou our ur clien clients ts cconsistent onsistent qualityy and ccompetitive qualit ompetitive pric prices. p es.

t Britannia Britannia Windows Windows is the only company company in the UK U to to use Marinespec hardware, Marinespec har h dware, for for 25 yyears ears anti anti corrosion corrosion and best long g term term value. value.

Established in 1980, Br Britannia itan nnia W Windows indows has manufactured manufac tured and installe installed ed windo windows ws and doors ffor or o housing associa associations, tions, scho schools, ools, MOD MOD,, go government vernment buildings,, hospitals buildings hospitals,, trustss ffor or o over ver 30 yyears. ears. W We’re e’re rreliable, eliable, trustworthy trustworthy and kknowledgeable. nowledgeable.

t Our stringent Health Safety procedures and Our str ingent Hea alth and S afety pr ocedures an d impeccable impeccable record record offer off ffer er you you peace peace of mind. mind.

t Britannia Britannia W Windows indows ha has as dealt with pr projects ojects rranging anging from fr om £5,000 to to £3,000,000, £3,000 0,000, delivered delivered on time budget,, pr project from startt to finish, and on budget oject managed fr om star to finish h, giving peace g iving yyou ou peac e of mind. m . mind t Our environmental Our en vironmental ccredentials credentials are are impeccable impeccable closed from startt with the option of clo osed loop rrecycling ecycling fr om star Did tto o finish. D id yyou ou know know that we we not only recycle reeccycle the windows wee take windows w take out, o but can can also manufacture manuffacturee windows from windows made fr o om 1100% 00% rrecycled eeccycled compound! compound!

Don’t D on’t just ttak take ak ke our o w word ord for it! We ar We are e fully ac accredited credited d by by the British British Standards Standards Institution, Instiitution, ISO9000 and if yyou ou want wan a t any any more more reassurance reassurance we we would would be deligh delighted ted to to introduce introd duce you you to to some of our clients. clientss.

So S o wha whatt a are re yyou ou uw wa waiting aiting for? The The ne next xt time yyou ou have have a windo window w installation installation pr project ojecct call Allan Allan V Voss, oss, our ccommercial omme ercial manager on 07894 159351 351 or visit our state state of the art arrt premises premises in Clevedon. Clevedon.

3 Wa Ways ays to to ccontact ontact us Call 01275 878153 Call 878153 Visit V isit Offices, O ffices, Factory Fac tor o y & Showroom Showroom Click C lick www.britanniawindows.co.uk www.britann niawindows.co.uk Britannia Windows Windows LLtd, td, Kimberley Kimberley Rd Rd Strode Road), Clevedon (off S trode R oad), C le evedon BS21 6QJ Showroom Sho wroom Opening: SSat at 10am-4pm Mon-Fri Mon-Fri 8.30am-5.00pm, 8.30am-5.00pm,

We’re proud to be working with

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Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 17:05 Page 58

• Outstanding Business of the year 3rd place 2011 • St John Ambulance Award (National) short listed 2012

Drainage Solutions Limited

• Latest, business excellence award, short listed Green Business of the Year category • Members of the British Safety Council • Certified Rainwater Harvesters

Multi award winning Wessex Drainage Solutions Ltd. based in Salisbury, and covering an area within a 60 mile radius of the city, was established in 2009 by co-directors Ian Porter and Zabrina Sait. The founding principle was to bring a professional, ethical and customer focused approach to bridge the gap between large faceless organisations and the often poorly trained small companies.

• Construction Line Registered Zabrina says “Our strength is providing customer satisfaction. We combine old fashioned standards of service and workmanship with the latest in equipment and up to date techniques.”

39 Coldharbour Lane | Salisbury | Wiltshire | SP2 7BY Call: 01722 349324 Email: info@wessexdrainage.co.uk Visit: www.wessexdrainage.co.uk

The company offers a range of services from unblocks, high pressure water jetting, CCTV and level surveys, tracking and tracing of drains, resin lining and re-rounding of pitch fibre drains, pump and plant servicing, excavations, repairs, installations, often using non dig solutions. They are certified installers of Brawoliner resin lining systems. They also specialise in the replacement, repair and servicing of septic tanks, sewage treatment plants, and rainwater harvesting systems. Their determination to offer an honest, reliable and professional service is greatly appreciated by their many clients. Although domestic customers are responsible for about 25% of their business, the firm is also called upon by local authorities, schools, structural engineers, surveyors, and hotels and catering establishments, and are currently working in the growing field of Rainwater Harvesting to set up a system for a local authority client. An idea of the degree of customer satisfaction can be found on the Check a Trade website.

Carrying the most up to date equipment, in addition to trade qualifications all field staff are first aid trained and qualified in confined space working, manual handling and customer service. The list of awards and registrations that their prompt efficient service has generated includes; • New business of the year 2010 • Marketing excellence 2nd place 2011

58

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Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 14/05/2012 17:05 Page 59

Somerset Carpenters CONSTRUCTION companies always feel confident to place contracts and on going business with Somerset Carpenters Ltd.

The skilled workforce of this commercial carpentry contractor is much in demand from those seeking high quality workmanship, speedy delivery and cost effective prices. Specialising in timber engineered structures and first and second fixing, the company, based in Bridgwater, brings more than 30 years’ trading experience and craft to bear on every project it undertakes. “With faster build times and more demanding designs, the need for a competent professional approach has never been greater,” states Somerset Carpenters’ managing director Mike West.

“Timber frames are becoming more popular for the construction of houses, schools, hotels and amenity buildings,” says Mike. “The wall panels and floor sections arrive pre-made, thus reducing the on-site construction period and getting a waterproof envelope to start the internal fixing much earlier than is possible with traditional construction methods.” There’s even the option to bring Somerset Carpenters on board for turnkey construction schemes. “All you need to do is decide to have a building and leave the rest to us,” assures Mike. “We have the experience and the management capability to take this type of project from concept design or completed architect plans through to completion ready for use.” “With our experience and expertise we are able to provide a high quality service, balancing the best of traditional skills with the need for modern methods and materials.” For further information about Somerset Carpenters and its services, visit www.somersetcarpenters.co.uk To make an enquiry, telephone 01278 425710 or email info@somersetcarpenters.co.uk T: 01278 421222 F:01278 422412

WTBS

BUILDING SUPPLIES TRADE & DIY

Unit 1 Barhams Close|Wylds Road|Bridgwater|Somerset|TA6 4DH

“

WE ARE DELIGHTED TO BE OF SERVICE TO

SOMERSET CARPENTERS

”

AND WISH THEM CONTINUED SUCCESS FOR THE FUTURE.

Glentworth INSURANCE SERVICES LTD Commercial Insurance Specialists Property

Now with 25 projects under way, the company is one of the largest labour-only or supply and fix carpentry contractors covering the region, working closely with other construction firms.

Liability

Somerset Carpenters Ltd work directly with schools, hospitals, prisons, nursing homes, offices, Premier Inn’s and Travelodges to name but a few, earning an enviable track record of successful project management and completion to a high standard along the way.

P r o f e s s i o na l R i s ks

All managers have undertaken SMSTS – Site Managers Safety Training Scheme - and at least one carpenter in every gang the company sends out holds an SSSTS (Site Supervisors Safety Training Scheme) certificates.

M a r i ne

The company, a member of the Timber Research and Development Association, also holds a Worksafe Certificate, which is issued by SMAS Ltd and recognised by members of the Safety Schemes in Procurement. No matter what the job, if it needs carpentry then Somerset Carpenters can provide the skilled manpower. Its services cover the full range of skills, including new build, roof structures of all types and sizes (the company has specialist teams available), timber frame construction - from a one-off house to a multi-storey block - plus general carpentry covering joinery, framing cladding, joist floors etc.

C o ns e q u e nt i a l L o s s

Motor Fleet G o o d s i n TTrr a ns i t

Proud to suppor supportt Somerset Carpenters V Visit isit Glentwor Glentworth th for expert expert advice on your business insurance needs

Unit 16 | Middle Bridge Business Park Bristol Road | Por Portishead tishead | Bristol | BS20 6PN TTel: el: 01275 818553 | Fax: 01275 399781 Email: por portishead@glentworth-insurance.com tishead@glentworth-insurance.com 59

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ecofab

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The excitement is building for multi award winning Bodmin company ECOFAB and its sister company RIBA Chartered Architects ARCO2 Architecture Ltd. Since constructing their first domestic dwelling in 2008, ECOFAB, producer of ecologically friendly building systems, continues to win numerous awards for their work in the field of sustainable development. They are especially proud of their award from the LABC, an organisation that strictly monitors standards among local authority building control. LABC Environmental Excellence Awards 2011, Winner - Best Sustainable Development ECOFAB Ltd, ARCO2 Architecture Ltd and Cornwall Council in recognition of their high standards of design, construction and workmanship for Brambles Nursery and Childrens Centre Penzance. Also, Dorset Property and Architects awards 2010 - Best Eco or Environmental Project for the Childrens Centre, Swanage. Cornwall Sustainability Award 2011 and the list goes on.

ECOFAB offers one of the most high performance sustainable building systems in the UK at a realistic price. It consists of straw and wool prefabricated modular panels that are manufactured and sealed in the factory in Bodmin and then transported to site for assembly within a glulam post and beam frame by a skilled team. The modular system is readily erected

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to a weatherproof shell in a matter of days. Minimal excavations via pad foundations reduce the use of concrete, while the post and beam frame allows for bespoke, versatile structures to be built on challenging areas like steep, flood prone, archaeological or wooded sites. ECOFAB prides itself on the use of locally sourced organic, reclaimed and recycled materials wherever possible: the use of straw bale and wool in construction results in super insulated, breathable low embodied energy buildings that are low maintenance, light airy, warm and spacious. In addition, materials like straw, timber and timber bi-products are all carbon sequestering: i.e. they reduce carbon emissions in their utilisation contributing to a system that is extremely sustainable, airtight, quick to construct and exceeds Building Regulations.

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The system is available for self-builders or as a turnkey design and build package, providing a flexible option whatever the budget or procurement route. Designs are bespoke and tailored to individual needs, environmental aspirations, and the individual site. The ECOFAB system is fully approved by LABC with a ten year structural warranty making insurance and mortgage straightforward. ECOFAB is the ideal ethical green option, for domestic architecture, educational and community projects and commercial structures; providing unique, ethical buildings for the future.

For more information please

Call: 01208 72200 www.eco-fab.co.uk www.arco2.co.uk Duchy Alarms are proud to suppport Ecofab and we wish them all the best for the future.

DUCHY ALARMS SECURITY & FIRE

Fire Alarm Systems Intruder Alarm Systems Door Access Control CCTV Security Systems

Call us now for a FREE quote

01872 560560 www.duchyalarms.co.uk Email: admin@duchyalarms.co.uk Silverwell Truro Cornwall

Visit our Security Showroom in Truro: call to arrange a visit

ECOFAB

Your local independent builders’ merchants you’ll find everything you need in one place. Supplying building materials for over 200 years

Call us on: 0172 666 298 e: bbs.staustell@bradfords.co.uk We are proud to support Ecofab and wish them all the best for the future.

Manfield Way Holmbush Ind Est St Austell Cornwall PL25 3HQ

Bradfords WE KNOW BUILDING

'XFK\ 7LPEHU DUH SURXG WR VXSSO\ VXVWDLQDEOH KRPH JURZQ WLPEHU WR (FRIDE /WG DQG FXVWRPHUV WKURXJKRXW WKH 6RXWK :HVW Duchy Timber Downend Lostwithiel PL22 0RB Telephone 01208 872338 www.duchytimber.co.uk

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Customer focussed company Golden Castle Caravans are celebrating 35 years in business, and are reaping the rewards of the major changes they made to their company structure last year. The most dramatic and exciting of these was the merger of their Staverton & McIntyre branches into the main company and the relocation of all sales and servicing to the recently extended and improved 9 acre site at their Staverton HQ on Cheltenham Road East near Churchdown, Gloucestershire. The extended Staverton site, and large awning showroom, is proving to be a great hit with customers, providing first class sales, accessory and service facilities, all at one easily accessible location with ample parking. The transfer of the Sterling and Sprite brands to Staverton, bringing the company’s entire offering under one roof means that they are now able to give their customers an even better choice, at even more competitive prices. The team expanded by the inclusion of the Staverton & McIntyre staff, has a wealth of knowledge and experience, and over the years Golden Castle Caravans has become the “go to” place for caravans and accessories, the company pride themselves on the quality of their service which sees generations of the same families returning again and again.

Craig Dee, the Managing Director of Golden Castle Caravans says “These days you have to be flexible. The economic climate is difficult for everybody and more than ever we have to put our

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customers’ needs and expectations first. We took a big step in merging the branches and changing the format of our annual caravan show but these changes are already directly resulting in better service and better prices for our customers. These have been extremely positive moves.” Their services include new and used caravan sales, and they are main dealers for Swift, Sterling, Sprite and Lunar. Caravan servicing, warranty and insurance repairs are carried out in their 6 bay workshop which is fully approved by the National Caravan Council, the Caravan Club and the Camping and Caravanning Club. They are licenced credit brokers for BlackHorse and offer a choice of competitive finance packages. Payments can be spread over a period of up to 12 years, making monthly instalments more affordable than ever. They are also appointed representatives of the Towergate Underwriting Group, trading as Towergate Bakers, the Caravan Insurance specialists based in Cheltenham.

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In their Caravanning and Outdoor Leisure Accessory Shop they stock a full range of everything necessary for your holiday, and some items you didn’t even know you wanted until you saw them As one of the premier caravan companies in the South West and Midlands, they have been organising the Caravan & Motorhome Show at the Three Counties Show Ground in Malvern for nearly 20 years. In 2011 they launched The Cotswold County Caravan Show at their Churchdown site to run every September. In 2012 the show will be held on 20th-23rd September.

Visit us Golden Castle Caravans Cheltenham Road East Churchdown Gloucestershire GL2 9QL For more information please

Would like to thank

Call: 01452 713311

Bradcot Awnings Paintseal Direct Swift Group

www.goldencastle.co.uk Email: salesgc@goldencastle.co.uk

for their continued support

swift group would like to congratulate golden castle on celebrating Bradcot Awnings are proud to support Golden Castle Leisure and wish them the best of luck for the future What to expect from a Bradcot Awning British Concept & Design Hi-tech Fabrics Heat Reflective Roof Easy System

01274 306811 info@bradcot-awnings.co.uk Heyford Court Hillam Road, Bradford BD2 1QN

www.bradcot-awnings.co.uk

years in business

Cheltenham Road East, Churchdown, Gloucestershire GL2 9QL Telephone Sales 01452 713311 www.goldencastle.co.uk

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I

N T E R SOU N D G U I T A R S

THE opening of Steve Smith’s Intersound Music shop may have been a “seat-of-the-pants” learning curve, but more than a decade on, it’s the pick of the guitar world. Things are really rocking in Dursely, Gloucestershire, with Intersound Music renowned as a haven for all things guitar. Even the specialists like to be in tune with Intersound Music - it has had a long association with one of the UK's most inspirational electric guitars makers, Trevor Wilkinson, and stocks one of the largest selections of his Fretking handmade instruments in the South West, including some one-off collector’s pieces. The range underline’s the company’s promise, says Steve, that the guitars found here are “not the usual suspects".

As well as amplifiers and accessories, there’s quality guitars from well-known makers such as Freshman, Tanglewood and Godin, at prices to suit all purse strings - as opposed to guitar strings but Intersound Music stocks those too. It’s been 14 years since Steve, along with his wife, Judith, set out achieve a long-held ambition of making music his career. He left the control systems industry to fulfill his dream but admits the early days were a real challenge. “It was completely new to me - a seat-of-the-pants learning curve,” he remembers. “We did have many trials and tribulations but the shop now stands out as a specialist guitar establishment. “We are a friendly bunch and we all have some strange and interesting instruments in our own collections. “We also think that the best way to buy a guitar is to actually play the one you’re going to buy! Every guitar is different - and some of ours are very different.”

“We were fed up with most guitar shops we went to having much the same stock, so we decided not to have any new Fender, Gibson, or Ibanez guitars,” he adds, “although you might find the occasional tasty second-hand one!” Indeed, a real juicy item among the second-hand electrics and acoustics is an instrument which once belonged to Jim Root from the band Slipknot. Any visitor to the Parsonage Street store can revel in the vast range of guitars lining the walls awaiting purchase by the next Eric Clapton, Brian May or Jimi Hendrix. Intersound Music has supply contracts with UK luthiers such as Brook Guitars from Devon, Atkin Guitars of Kent, Steve Toon Guitars, Cheltenham and Dave King Guitars of Reading, all leading handmade manufacturers of outstanding acoustic instruments, along with the unique carbon fibre acoustics from Rainsong USA.

CONGRATULATIONS TO INTERSOUND ON 14 YEARS OF SUCCESSFUL TRADING AND FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT

FIND OUT MORE

WORLD FAMOUS MUSIC STRINGS WWW.ROTOSOUND.COM FACEBOOK.COM/ROTOSOUND U TWITTER.COM/ROTOSOUND_UK

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Even the best players find their much-loved instruments occasionally need some TLC and, here, Intersound Music can also help, thanks to its service and repair facility covering acoustic guitars, electric guitars and amplifiers. Any guitar, new or used, is serviced before sale and comes with a free service after three months in order to check the setup is to the customer’s requirements. If requested any minor adjustments can then be made. “We're always happy to offer help and advice to the enthusiastic beginner or seasoned professional,” says Steve. And that includes regularly showcasing what’s striking a chord with guitarists by hosting an annual exhibition at the Gables Hotel, south Gloucestershire, this year’s show is already booked for Thursday, November 15!

For further information about Intersound Music and its guitars, visit www.intersoundguitars.co.uk Alternatively you can follow on Facebook or telephone Steve, Colin or Norm on 01453 549783.

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BOURNEMOUTH

CURTAINS L

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WHEN it comes to curtain specialists, businesses from around the country are drawn to one company in particular.

strong, long-lasting and very competitively priced while all our materials are flame retardant to BS5867 Part 2B.”

Bournemouth Curtains has been supplying and fitting flameretardant curtains and blinds for more than 48 years and is viewing the next few years ahead as an exciting window of opportunity.

Such attention to cost-effective quality and service has reaped enviable customer loyalty.

Also able to supply and fit a full range of metal tracking systems, the company has established itself as a leading player in the business when it comes to fitting curtains for drama rooms, stages, village halls and theatres. However it also caters for schools, offices, student accommodation, nursing homes and universities. “We use all types of blinds, including verticals, rollers, venetians and specialist total blackouts suitable for dark rooms, science labs etc,” says managing director Keith Aldridge.

Bournemouth Curtains’ long list of clients, such as Spectrum Housing, JB Leadbitter Construction, Bournemouth University, Lincoln College, Oxford University and many private schools, also includes Dorset County Council, Hampshire County Council with which it has held contracts for more than 30 years. Able to arrange exclusive fixed price contracts for building contractors, architects, housing associations and PFI schemes, the company welcomes new enquiries from interested businesses and organisations.

A total of eight staff are based at Bournemouth Curtains’ premises in Inverleigh Road, Southbourne, and all the fully-trained fitters have been accredited with full CRB checks. They also hold CSCS cards for use on building sites as well as the required certificates for working at heights and with scissor lifts.

“We offer a free, no-obligation measuring and quotation service in which our representatives can assess all your requirements and advise on any problems you may have,” says Keith. “We can also bring samples of fabrics and blinds for your selection as we have a range of traditional cloths together with all types of blinds.”

For further information about the range of services available from Bournemouth Curtains

“Over the years we have worked closely with one of the UK's leading suppliers of curtain fabrics and have developed new cloths to help keep costs to a minimum while retaining durability and reliability,” says Keith.

Poles | Tracks | Fabrics | Trimmings | Beds | Curtain Hooks | Heading Tapes | Tiebacks | Pelmets | Blinds | Holdbacks | Silent Gliss | Swish |

“We looked world-wide for our tracking systems - we only use metal ones for durability - and we now have exclusive tracks that are

Price and Company are proud suppliers to Keith Aldridge and his team at Bournemouth Curtains Ltd and congratulate them on over 40 years trading. www.price-regency.co.uk | www.panelglide.co.uk | www.thepelmetcompany.co.uk

Call: 01202 434 185 Email: info@bournemouthcurtains.co.uk

www.bournemouthcurtains.co.uk 4 Brackley Close | Christchurch | BH23 6SE

Everyone prides themselves on carrying out a project to the highest of standards, using only the best materials, continuing the company’s well established reputation for quality in both workmanship and products.

harrisons where your business counts

01202 590596 office@harrisons.uk.net Harrisons are proud to be associated with

Bournemouth Curtains and wish them all the best for the future

www.harrisons.uk.net 65

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LIVING life in the fast lane is all in a day’s work for those in the Swindon Karting team - and they go all out to ensure visitors have as much fun as they do. Boasting the fastest 550 metre indoor tarmac track in the south, the Swindon Karting F1 Centre is a magnet for those looking for an exhilarating day out.

The centre, a 22-acre site on the edge of Wroughton Airfield near Swindon in Wiltshire, believes firmly in mixing business with pleasure and with its on-site meeting rooms, catering, and a host of other team-building activities, is first choice for many corporate event organisers. More than 100 people can be accommodated within facilities that include a lecture theatre, boardroom, wii-fi and projector screen and by combining the centre’s full range of fun activities into the programme, guests will be talking attending an event here for weeks to come. It may be called the Swindon Karting F1 Centre but there’s so much more to it than just karting. Customers can plan their visit from the whole range of activities, or choose one of several exciting packages. For full details of these and forthcoming events, such as open race meetings, prices and bookings Visit: www.swindonkarting.co.uk Email: mail@swindonkarting.co.uk Telephone: 01793 814340

A corporate event, children’s party, stag or hen do or just family parties looking to have fun, the family run centre can cater for all and throw in a few more thrills too. Laser clay shooting, rodeo bull riding (which can also be hired privately to be taken to events), mini diggers and mini quads are all available and easily incorporated into the varied packages on offer. No matter the age, height or personal requirements of each customer, Swindon Karting can provide the machine to speed them on their way, with some capable of 60mph. The newest is the 35cc Bambino racing kart, aimed at five to eightyear-olds who are the required minimum 125cms in height while the 390cc dual seater is popular as it ensures those unable to take the wheel, whether through disability, failure to meet the height requirement or lack of confidence, get to have a go by being driven around the track by a fully qualified marshall.

Jelf Manson are delighted to support Swindon Karting

Providing more fun options are the Sodi GT2 racing karts and the standard Bowman racing karts, which are ideal for juniors and those leaning to learn the basics.

Jelf Manson provide expert insurance solutions to the Sport and Leisure industry.

Of course, many guests require as much fuel as the karts do and this is where the Trackside Diner comes into its own, serving the very best quality fast food, buffets and hot meals. Open every weekend and on evening events subject to a minimum group size it also caters for birthday parties, corporate events, family parties or any other group activity in one of the private dining areas overlooking the track.

Contact the team on

0161 228 0444

Kabel House, 15 Quay Street, Manchester M3 3HN

www.jelfgroup.com JIB011-01.12

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farm Wheatland

Eco Lodges

A HAT-TRICK of sustainability awards for their green holiday business is getting Devon eco-champions Ian Ripper and Maggie Watson celebrating. Wheatland Farm Eco Lodges have already taken gold for sustainable tourism in the 2011 Visit Devon awards and the couple also scooped the low carbon business category in last year’s Devon Environmental Business Initiative scheme.

Despite the impeccable gold-edged green credentials, Ian is quick say: “You don't need to be super-green to stay here - it's for everyone.” Comprising three comfortable self-catering eco lodges - soon to be four with a final lodge under way - and one cottage, Wheatland Farm is powered by renewable energy and promises holidays that are comfortable, relaxing and inspiring. “There are 21 acres to explore, managed for wildlife and your enjoyment,” promises Ian. “Whether you want a base in North Devon, love nature, want to walk your dog, cycle the glorious countryside, or just relax, our tranquil accommodation is for you. We can even make a holiday or off-season short break easier by ordering local food ahead. “You can also leave the car at home - we’ll collect you from the station or nearby bus stop.” For Ian and Maggie, who have spent a lifetime involved with eco-issues, the latest awards are a source of great pride. But the real icing on the cake would be to spread the sustainability message to other businesses. “We'd be even more pleased to help other businesses go greener so please get in touch, if you want to swap ideas, work together or ask us about our experience, we'd love to hear from you.” says Ian.

To contact the couple, telephone 01837 83499 or email info@wheatlandfarm.co.uk For more info about the holiday accommodation and Wheatland Farm’s eco-strategy, visit www.wheatlandfarm.co.uk

They’ve just completed a prize triple by landing Gold for Sustainable Tourism in the regional South West Tourism Excellence awards. The prizes are the crowning achievement of energy initiatives which have included eco-construction, installing Leicestershire supplier Navitron’s solar hot water kits in all the holiday accommodation and erecting an 11kW Gaia wind turbine. “Navitron came top in my list of suppliers for their no-nonsense approach and competitive prices, so I went with their kits,” says Ian, delighted that cutting consumption, combined with renewable energy production, makes the business a net energy producer. But Wheatland Farm Eco Lodges, based near the village of Winkleigh, is no stranger to prizes. Since arriving in December 2006, the couple’s popular low-carbon holidays on a small farm managed for wildlife, including dormice, barn owls, British orchids, badgers and foxes, have created a bulging trophies cabinet. “We've held gold level approval from the Devon Wildlife Trust since 2007 and from the Green Tourism Business Scheme since 2008, showing that we manage our land sustainably, promote local produce, educate people about wildlife and farming, help them access wildlife, run our business sustainably, and follow environmental good practice,” says Ian. “Our awards for good environmental practice include being in the 2011 Times Top 20 Farm Stays list, winning both the bronze for sustainable tourism across the South West region in the South West Tourism Excellence Awards and the silver in the Visit Devon Tourism Awards 2010, and being a finalist in the 2010 Devon Federation of Small Businesses awards, Environmental Responsibility category.”

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hospitality spreads. There are two large function rooms and the team will be delighted to tailor your reception, business function, meeting, conference, wedding, private party, dinner dance to suit, from light refreshments, a cold buffet, a formal sit down meal, barbeque or hog roast, they can do it all. Business clients will find every facility necessary, whether for a discussion during a round of golf, a private conversation in a quiet corner of the bar, or a fully fledged conference. There is free WiFi throughout the club and projection screens can be made available for either the Crystal Room, able to accommodate up to 200 delegates or the smaller Fairway room able to accommodate from 75 to 144 people.

Peterstone Lakes Golf Club Golf, Weddings, Meetings & Events Peterstone Lakes, set in acres of peaceful Welsh countryside, just outside Cardiff, is a family owned and run 18 hole golf course. The club was opened in 1990 and came into the ownership of the Millar family in 1998.

The 6,000 metre, par 72 course, has undergone major improvements over the past few years and is in fantastic condition. Although fairly level, the tree lined course, with a variety of water hazards and bunkers, offers sufficient challenges for even the most experienced golfer, while beginners will find plenty to enjoy. The highly experienced PGA qualified golf professional and his team will always be on hand to offer friendly advice or coaching for all levels, including juniors. To complement the course there is a practice field, putting green, nets, practice bunkers and an indoor video golfing academy. Peterstone Lakes has a superb clubhouse where visitors and members can discuss their golfing prowess in a convivial and friendly atmosphere; Peterstone Lakes is rapidly becoming one of South Wales favourite golfing and social venues for a whole range of occasions, as their reputation for quality, value and

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The club specialises in corporate or golfing society events and frequently organises events for just a few golfers or up to 150, covering registration, competitions and scoring. The dedicated wedding team bring an individual, family approach to planning each wedding, large or small. They will design your day round you, giving you a bespoke occasion, not just an “off the shelf� package and they only ever hold one wedding at a time. Choose between the Crystal Room, able to seat 144, with its own bar and dance floor which has an enclosed private courtyard, or the Fairway which has a more rustic feel with oak beams, seating for 75 and lovely views across the golf course, or for a really large event, take both.

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Whatever your requirements give them a ring, you can be sure of a warm Welsh welcome, excellent level of service and a first rate golfing experience.

Peterstone Lakes Golf Club Wentloog | Cardiff | CF3 2TN For more information please

Call: 01633 680009 info@peterstonelakes.com www.peterstonelakes.com

DFC Accountants would like to wish Peterstone Lakes Golf Club every success and our continued support in their future. DFC Accountants Ltd 1st Floor | Unit 4c | Village Way | Greenmeadow Springs Business Park | Cardiff | CF15 7NE Tel: 08455 040404 E-mail: pgd@dfcand.co.uk

Fine Wines Direct UK We bring to our customers the best wines at all levels from around the world. “We are proud to be associated with Peterstone Lakes Golf Club and wish them continued success for the future.”

finewinesdirectuk.com - 02920 787500 finewinesdirectuk.com 242 PPenarth enarth Road - Cardiff - CF11 8TU

Castell Howell Foods Ltd

Wales’ leading independent food wholesaler wish Peterstone Lakes Golf Club continued success... Order Line:

01269 846080 www.chfoods.co.uk 69

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private tea room. Activities range from a vintage Hollywood glamour hair and make-up session, hair fascinator making workshop, a saucy knicker workshop, how to make your own nipple tassels - twirling optional, or the art of burlesque dancing!

Established two years ago on the Cheltenham Road in Bristol, Amy (Cox) and Joney (Baloney) are going from strength to strength. Their fascinating shop is a treasure trove of original vintage, vintage inspired and limited edition clothes, accessories, books, homeware and furniture. Every item of clothing and piece of jewellery has been lovingly sourced, and hand picked by the owners, who both have a real eye for quality and style. With an in-house dressmaker, alterations can be made there and then or whole new outfits can be made to order. After you have made your choices, or even while taking a breather mid-shopping, their vintage-style tea room serves elevenses,

Put some of the fun back into shopping, visit Cox and Baloney for a shopping experience with a difference.

For further details

Visit: www.coxandbaloney.com Call: 0117 944 3100 Come and find us:

182-184 Cheltenham road Cotham Bristol BS6 5RB

MILLER LYONS SOLICITORS

Experience & Expertise light lunches and both traditional afternoon tea and cream tea’s. Home made cakes and fresh pots of tea are served daily on gorgeous mis-matched bone china cups and saucers. For a party with a difference, have a traditional afternoon tea party served with a Cox and Baloney twist. Whether there are just a few of the girls or a whole gabble...they can host the perfect party, like no other you'll find in Bristol. Hen do's, birthdays or just a get together, - whatever the excuse, do it in style. From a vintage style tea party with shopping and styling tips and the opportunity to try as many vintage style outfits as you wish, to a choice of extra activities in a separate

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Property Litigation Company Commercial Wills & Trusts

01749 674150 www.millerlyons.co.uk

Melbourne House, Chamberlain Street, Wells BA5 2PJ

We dare to be different!

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growth

*SV XLI 9/«W ,SXIP -RHYWXV]

The nation’s hoteliers are celebrating as new figures for the last 12 months reveal that domestic trips and holidays were at their highest levels for five years. More than 104 million domestic overnight trips were taken in England alone during 2011, an increase of nine per cent on 2010 and the highest since the survey began in 2006. Meanwhile, the number of domestic holidays remained above pre-recession levels for the third consecutive year, indicating that the ‘staycation’ trend is still strong.

Business trips and trips to visit friends and relatives also showed recovery after a number of years spent in decline, with an increase of 15 per cent and 10 per cent respectively. However, neither trip type has regained the peak volumes recorded in 2006, before the onset of the recession. VisitEngland has also released the latest wave of its ‘Staycation Tracker’ research this month, which revealed that the majority of UK residents who took a holiday at home in 2011 had a positive overall experience, 85 per cent reporting it as either ‘excellent’ or ‘very good’.

CUSTOM ER SO LUTIO NS Brits are increasingly inspired to discover the fantastic destination that is on their doorstep

UK residents who took a holiday at home in 2011 had a positive overall experience, 85 per cent reporting it

Value for money was also rated highly, with 78 per cent of those polled saying their holiday in England offered ‘excellent’ or ‘very good’ value.

as either ‘excellent’ or ‘very good’

Looking forward, the number of trips taken is expected to be broadly similar in 2012 as in 2011; beyond 2012, the positive domestic holiday experience means that almost half expect they will take more domestic breaks than they used to before the recession.

England offered ‘excellent’ or

Value for money was also rated highly, with 78 per cent of those polled saying their holiday in ‘very good’ value

While welcoming the good news for the industry, Mr Berresford warned that challenges still lay ahead.

Further figures released by the national tourist board VisitEngland show that total spend rose by 13 per cent year on year, representing almost £18bn. James Berresford, VisitEngland’s Chief Executive commented: “These totals, coupled with our recent Day Visits research which revealed that 1.3 billion domestic day trips were taken in England last year, clearly demonstrates that Brits are increasingly inspired to discover the fantastic destination that is on their doorstep.” Holiday trips in particular grew by six per cent to 46 million, and holiday spend hit £10bn; an increase of 11 per cent from 2010. In terms of location type, 2011 saw an increase across the board – domestic overnight trips to towns, cities and the countryside were all up by just under 14 per cent each compared to 2010, while trips to the seaside were up by just over 11 per cent.

“We have seen a double-digit growth in holiday spend and this is part due to inflation, and increased operating costs while, as we approached the Easter break, one of our most important holiday periods of the year, the news was saturated with talk of a potential fuel shortage, which could have seriously hindered a successful start to the holiday season.

VISIT www.visitengland.com www.enjoyengland.com

“As an industry, we will only overcome challenges such as these, if we continue to work closely together, maximise opportunities that 2012, this special year, with the Olympics and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, brings, and support the development of one of the country’s few growth industries."

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The Cake House

acks

sn homemade cakes and of yesteryear

Delicious home made cakes and buns are everybody’s favourite, and the range of freshly made treats on offer at the Cake House in Bishops Walk Cirencester, would tempt the most calorie conscious visitor. Freshly baked on the premises using locally sourced ingredients where possible, owner Sarah Tremblen and her team are delighted by the success of their new venture which opened in 2009. Their reputation has grown to such an extent that the business has been nominated for New Business of the Year in the 2012 Citizen and Echo Women in Business Awards. Tea, coffee, and soft drinks are served all day. Besides a range of scrumptious cakes, such as bakewell tarts, lemon drizzle cake, coffee and walnut cake, brownies, flapjacks and muffins customers can also choose from a range of light meals, including soups, sandwiches, and jacket potatoes with vegetarian options. Sarah tells us that "We are getting fantastic repeat business, which is brilliant; new people are coming in all the time. We get a whole range. Mums

Owner Sarah

Tremblen

on their own, groups of mothers, older groups, and people taking lunch break from work. It's a real cross-section. Some customers can come twice, or three times a day." In addition to the large indoor seating area for up to 50 people, there are a few tables outside on Bishops Walk. The Cake House is a great venue for your own celebrations, a family gathering, or children’s party. They also offer a takeaway service, outdoor catering, and individually designed, made to order, celebration cakes, a recent commission was for a seven tier creation, each tier a different flavour! Visit this lovely coffee shop and indulge in some of their delicious home-baked options.

The Cake House 4 Bishops Walk, Cirencester Gloucestershire GL7 1JH Telephone: 01285 644 699

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At McGills, we will work with you as financial partners to help you save time, money and tax. We provide straight forward, no nonsense accountancy support, tax advice and other services, on time and at an agreed competitive price. We have been working in partnership with The Cake House for over 4 years. As Sarah says “McGills have been a great business partner for me and have always supported The Cake House� The proof really is in the pudding this time... Our website has a range of case studies and testimonials that demonstrate how a partnership with McGills works for our clients.

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been that you have Fantastic news ess oman in Busin W a r fo d te a in nom Award. step of with you every re a e w r ve e s A of us. d luck from all the way... Goo

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Cornish Farm Produce international suppliers. They aim to deliver their produce from field to kitchen overnight which means that they are able to offer a supply unmatched by any other distributor in the area.

Cornish Farm Produce supplies fresh, fruit, vegetables and dairy produce from their farm at Torpoint and their warehouse at Saltash, to a discerning customer base ranging from independent retailers, catering supply specialists, care homes and restaurants.

A delicious range of dairy produce is also available, including fresh milk, cream, tasty cheeses, yoghurts and country fresh free-range eggs. In addition they also carry a range of cooking oils, sauces, breads, and dry goods. Cornish Farm Produce doesn’t only offer the freshest of produce at the most competitive price; they can prepare it for you too. From peeled onions to chipped potatoes their produce comes to you ready prepared for the kitchen. The company is working towards SALSA accreditation, which they expect to achieve this year. SALSA is a nationally recognised food safety certification scheme specifically developed for small and micro producers, to demonstrate that they operate using robust and effective food safety standards. From their strategically placed storage and distribution centre sited just off the A38 in Saltash, their fleet of vans and lorries distribute daily to their customers throughout Cornwall and Devon ensuring that the produce arrives in the freshest condition.

Photographs courtesy of Rob Frost Photography They are a family business who really “know their onions,” having started out as growers on their farm at Torpoint in 1900. They have the huge advantage of sourcing much of their produce from this original base ensuring optimum freshness at competitive prices. The business developed from when the present Managing Director, Mr Roger Carter started selling fruit and vegetables from a retail shop in Saltash in 1986. As demand from local restaurants grew, Roger moved to larger premises in 1999, from which he could service the developing trade side of the business. In 2006, due to the development of the wholesale portfolio the decision was made to focus on that side of the business, and they moved to a large purpose built chilled warehouse in Saltash.

The strong family involvement, Roger’s father, Bob, who farmed at Torpoint is still a director, but the day to day running is done by Roger who ensures not just the exceptional quality and freshness of their product, but the outstanding level of customer service to which they attribute their success. They specialise in the growing and wholesaling of fresh fruit and vegetables and have developed over the years by providing top quality produce using the best local growers and top quality

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For more information and a list of the fantastic range of products on offer visit their web site www.cornishfarmproduce.co.uk or phone 01752 842251/844404 Cornish Farm Produce is proud to supply Chambers Restaurant, Plymouth.

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Chambers RESTAURANT Chambers Restaurant on the Barbican in Plymouth provides a relaxed yet sophisticated ambience loved by its many regular customers and visitors alike, and is a favourite haunt for business clients. The natural stone walls, light wood furniture, wall hangings and soft carpeting, set off the crisp white table cloths, and gleaming table ware in the candle lit dining room. The restaurant covers two floors; the first floor accommodates the main restaurant, able to seat 36, the second floor is ideal for private functions, being a more intimate space, with seating for 20. Master Chef, Proprietor Graham Ledwith, has worked in some of the country's top restaurants, and it is the gastronomic delicacies he creates, using Devon's finest produce, which has earned Chambers Restaurant the reputation of one of the finest small restaurants in Devon. Graham uses his extensive culinary expertise to devise menus reflecting the seasonal availability of local produce in mainly Modern European and Old English Classic styles.

His recipes feature locally caught fish and seafood, local meat and poultry, and game in season. The extensive menus are displayed on blackboards in the dining room, with a daily specials board offering some more innovative and original choices. The menus are well priced, 2 courses for £23.95 or 3 courses for £27.95. Great food, immaculate presentation and excellent service are the keys to this lovely restaurant’s success; nothing is too much trouble for the friendly team front of house. Haven’t booked? They will do their best to find you a table. For a special occasion, or when booking for a group, contact the restaurant ahead to discuss your preferences. The restaurant features a carefully chosen wine list to compliment your meal, and your waiter will be happy to make suggestions.

60 Notte Street | Barbican | Plymouth | PL1 2AG Telephone: 01752 663 266 Email: enquiries@chambers-restaurant.co.uk Visit: www.chambers-restaurant.co.uk to check for special deals. Photographs courtesy of Factory Media Designs

Nigel Webster & Co Chartered Accountants

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We take this opportunity to extend Graham Ledwith continued success and prosperity in his new venture with Chambers Restaurant. Abacus House, 129 North Hill, Plymouth PL4 8JY Tel (01752) 670066

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The Old Inn The pub has recently been refreshed and refurbished and provides a cosy traditional ambience with roaring log fires in the winter. In the summer the large garden and the conservatory are much enjoyed by visitors to this lovely pub with its striking moorland views, children especially enjoy watching the wild ponies. In the restaurant they use regional food partners, typically from family businesses like us, who provide us with quality ingredients that our team of talented chefs use to create fresh, unpretentious, seasonal dishes.

Situated in the heart of Dartmoor National Park the Old Inn is a 14th Century pub-restaurant, boasting a large garden with stunning views of the Moors. It’s the perfect base for exploring the Moors, convenient for Haytor Rocks and the wonderful “Cathedral of the Moor”. The Old Inn is part of the Hall & Woodhouse Dorset regional brewer’s family, brewing award-winning Dorset ales and offering warm hospitality for over 230 years. They offer a traditional range of Badger ales, brewed in the heart of Dorset countryside in Blandford Forum and using natural ingredients to create distinctive characters. The Old Inn offers seasonal ales such as Pickled Partridge, which is a “perfectly plump pint for the winter months” and followed this season by Firkin Fox, brewed with a refreshing combination of Celeia and cascade hops.

Jenny and Martin who manage the pub “employ nice people who think like us and enjoy the same things that we do; food & drink, and, perhaps more importantly take real pleasure in looking after people and making them happy.” Always keen to be part of the community Hall & Woodhouse’s nominated charity this year is Naomi House and jacksplace. They provide care to children and young adults with life-limiting conditions. Their services include respite stays, emergency support, hospice at home, bereavement and family support.

The Old Inn - Widecombe in the Moor Newton Abbot, Devon TQ13 7TA Tel: 01364 621207 Visit: www.oldinnwidecombeinthemoor.co.uk

Coastline Food Service are proud to be associated with the

Old Inn

Coastline is one of the largest suppliers of food service items and fresh produce to hotels, restaurants, schools and hospitals throughout the South of England. Proud to supply The Old Inn Pub and wish them all the best for the future

s Stocking over 6000 lines s 65 refridgerated vehicles s 60,000 square feet of premises

The fresh fish & food specialists Seafood Bar tapas & starters Butchery Smoked & cured seafood Menu alternatives Deli Desserts

s 25 years experience s A community orientated company s Competitve pricing structure s One stop shop s 24/7 service

Market House, Hopkinson Way, West Portway Ind Est, Andover, Hampshire SP10 3ZE Sales(Day and Night): T: 01264 321 050 E: sales@cooperfoods.co.uk W: cooperfoods.co.uk

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FOOD SERVICE

01202 481591 www.coastlineproduce.co.uk

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COOKERY SCHOOL

The newest concept in corporate incentives and team building activities has come to Bristol.

activity all under one roof. Delegates are normally grouped into guided teams of four. Everyone has to work as a team and actually communicate with each other; to achieve an enjoyable edible result. With careful planning team members can be brought together who might normally have very little contact with each other. Challenges and cook-offs can be incorporated to give the events an exciting extra edge. Each bespoke event is tailored to the taste buds of the individual client company, and ranges through sushi rolling, bread making, pasta master classes, Mediterranean cuisine, fish cookery, Thai, Jamaican, Indian, whatever appeals to your team, 102’s talented chefs will show you how. All classes, courses and events involve tasting, but most include eating what you’ve made in the class, so at the end of a few hours in the kitchen, you’ll be able to enjoy the results in a beautiful, relaxing dining area.

We are all used to the idea of a business lunch or breakfast meeting, or wining and dining special customers, but a Bristol company is taking this link further by combining corporate events and team building with the popularity of cooking.

As an extra special incentive or a memorable experience for valued clients the chef’s table provides a fabulous food and wine experience. Up to 14 guests can enjoy a bespoke menu using the finest local produce served with wines specifically picked by the sommelier to perfectly compliment each course. The chef’s table is an exciting experience, where diners interact with the chefs and participate in the buzz of a professional kitchen in action.

The increasing interest in food and wine is amply demonstrated by the number of cookery programmes on television these days. As cookery is an activity that anyone can participate in and enjoy regardless of age, fitness or experience, such popularity has led to the growth of team building through cookery.

During May 2012, 102 Cookery school will host cookery showcases every Saturday for the Bristol public to visit the venue and view the fantastic Samsung branded facilities. There will also be opportunities to meet and cook with leading chefs.

Nailsea Electrical, well known for their state of the art kitchen appliances have joined forces with exciting manufacturer Samsung to open the 102 cookery school at 102 Gloucester Road, in a striking purpose designed facility, within a superb church conversion. The cookery school features top notch, Jamie Oliverendorsed Samsung kitchen appliances including Dual Cook ovens, induction hobs and Steam Compacts; so as well as learning new skills, everyone will have a chance to use the best quality hobs and ovens that money can buy.

For further details

Visit: site www.102cookeryschool.co.uk Call: 0117 2440047 Email: admin@102cookeryschool.co.uk The school can accommodate up to 30 delegates at any one time and has a private meeting room fully equipped with audio visual facilities to enable companies to incorporate their meeting and

Come and find us 102 Gloucester Road | Bishopston | Bristol | BS7 8BN Photography: Jon Craig 77

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A specialist in weddings and licensed to hold civil ceremonies, the Whitminster Inn, on the Bristol Road, between Gloucester and Stroud is a privately owned, family run business with extensive range of facilities.

THE

INN GLOUCESTERSHIRE brides and grooms are thanking heavens its Wednesdays with the Whitminster Inn’s brand new wedding package. Couples can celebrate the day of their dreams at a dream price of just £500. That’s a wedding invitation that’s hard to resist and, says the inn proudly, the only one of its kind being issued by any venue in the area. What’s more, those wishing to plight their troth on Mondays, Tuesdays or Thursdays can also take advantage of the Whitminster Inn’s nuptial hospitality. Happy couples who say “we do” to the package, which helps to put the special into their special day, will find included: • Function room hire for the civil ceremony. • A civil ceremony set up for 20 guests • Use of private room for pre ceremony interviews with registrars • Three-course wedding breakfast for 20 from the Wednesday wedding inclusive wedding package menu.

As well as being popular for B&B accommodation with three restaurants - English, Chinese and Indian -renowned for the quality of their food and service and a fish and chip shop, it also plays host to regular live music events and is the first choice for many organising christenings, parties, wakes, conferences and team building events. For further details about the inn, forthcoming events, its menus and its full range of wedding services including the Wednesday Weddings package, please visit

Visit: www.whitminsterinn.co.uk Call: 01452 740234 Email: info@whitminsterinn.co.uk

Faux Flower D E S I G N Corporate & Function Flower Hire Proud supplier of quality flowers to The Whitminster Inn Studio 3 Fromehall Mill, Lodgemore Lane Stroud, Gloucestershire GL5 3EH info@fauxflowerdesign.com www.fauxflowerdesign.com 01453 847475 0777 243 5308

“Ssh...Artificial Actually”

Call: 01452 222 222 or 0800 157 7387 24 hr service 7 days a week Specialising in airport travel in Gloucestershire and the surrounding areas

are pleased to be associated with

The Whitminster Inn n

• A bottle of Champagne.

e: a2b-taxis@live.co.uk

• A glass of house wine per person. • The Honeymoon suite and full English breakfast. If a larger guest list is drawn up, Wednesday Weddings can cater for a total of 50 people at a supplement of £20 per head.

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In fact, there’s a whole host of additional extras from the ever flexible events department, all at prices to suit most budgets; the inn can provide a variety of evening menus options for example, starting from just £8.50 per head. All prospective brides and grooms need to do is to contact the team, who are happy to provide a tailormade wedding service, to discuss their requirements.

We are proud ud to supply

The Whitminster minsterr Inn and wish them luck in the futuree

To complete your happy day, it’s possible to move from your wedding breakfast, held in the English Restaurant, newly enlarged thanks to the July completion of the conservatory, to the inn’s Orchard Marquee. Able to accommodate up to 250 people, it is situated in the Whitminster’s picturesque cider apple orchard and is a luxury selfcontained venue with a large private bar, seating area, dance floor, modern toilet facilities and a disco, all of which (with an 11pm finish), is available for a very cost - competitive £500.

T:: 01452 3329 T 332979 979 E: hallsofgloucesterltd@fsmail.net ucesterltd@fsmail.net net

HALLS | Fruit ruit and Vegetable Vegetaable Wholesale ale

ATTWOOLLS Are proud to be associated with The Whitminster Inn Marquee Hire

Attwoolls have been providing professional solutions for over 50 years. Please contact us for a free quotation and colour brochure. 01452 742222 www.attwoollsmarquees.co.uk

Whitminster, Glos GL2 7LX

Camping & Leisure

Visit our HUGE showroom for a massive range of tents, camping equipment, skis, boots, clothing and accessories. Tel: 01452 742233 www.attwoolls.co.uk

Mon-Sat 9-5.30 Sun 10-4.00

John Attwooll & Co (Tents) Ltd, Whitminster, Glos GL2 7LX

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The Masons Arms MARK Dodson likes to let his food at the Michelin-starred Masons Arms, do the talking - but think light hearted rather than a stuffy lecture. “Food should be fun, not always a serious sitting in library conditions,” he insists. “Despite our Michelin Star reputation, we are not stuffy here at all.”

“We’re not stiff and starchy but very relaxed. There’s no dress code - we want food to do the talking. There’s not a whole lot of other people here doing what we’re doing so many think we’re a fancy place. Yes, our food is a bit more technical and cooked with a certain professionalism and expertise but it’s also great to look at and great to eat.” A modern take on British and French classics, Mark presents food that is, crucially, affordable - directly in the face of a perception that a Michelin Star means high prices. “Our biggest critics are the people who’ve never been here,” he says, wryly. The clientele which does visit is wide: young and old, foodies, beer drinkers and fine wine connoisseurs, from high-powered lawyers, solicitors and a celebrity or few to walkers and their dogs who have taken a breather from the Two Moors Way, the popular and spectacular coast-to-coast walk that goes right past the pub. Mark, who was Head Chef of Michel Roux’s Waterside Inn at Bray for 12 years, and his wife Sarah came to the pub in 2005 and since then, have picked up many awards, including mentions in the Good Food Guide, being named best North Devon restaurant in 2009 and best North Devon pub this year, Michelin Pub of the year in 2010 and of course, that Michelin Star. With a team of four in the kitchen and three in the restaurant /bar, he presents an à la carte menu and seasonal lunchtime specialities using only the finest local ingredients. Real ale is available on draught and Champagne by the glass. There is also a concise, good value, wine list, largely French, with a smattering of New Worlders. “We serve good honest food, locally sourced wherever possible and with equal care taken in every step from first preparation to final presentation,” says Mark.

First and foremost, he points out, the 13th century characterful thatched inn at Knowstone, on the edge of Exmoor, with a beamed bar, lounge, patio and restaurant to the rear, is a village pub, complete with toasty log fires and a warm welcoming atmosphere in which to sink a decent pint all year round. True, it’s held that Star since 2006 and is one of only 13 UK pubs to hold that accolade but Mark stresses that the clue is in the word pub. “I think many believe because of the Star that it’s going to be extremely posh, small portions and nouvelle cuisine but that’s not what we do,” he says.

“It’s wonderful to have the Star as it’s such a badge of quality but it comes with all kinds of connotations we’re keen to dispel. “We’re not Claridges, we’re not the Dorchester, we are a pub and very good in our category.” Mark and Sarah look forward to welcoming everyone at the Masons Arms. The restaurant is open from Tuesdays to Saturdays, noon until 2pm and from 7pm until 9pm and on Sundays from noon until 2pm.

For more information, and to view the menu, visit www.masonsarmsdevon.co.uk Reservations can be made on 01398 341231

Your local High quality fishmongers and smokehouse! For an efficient service from your local, independent distributor

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The Highwayman’s Haunt

IF you’re looking for a warm, friendly and relaxed place serving the best local food and providing an ideal setting for business gatherings, celebrations and weddings, Steve and Jane Coles of the Highwayman’s Haunt will stand and deliver. Since the couple arrived at the 13th century thatched pub just under a year ago, they’ve transformed it into a sought-after venue that can provide a perfect day out for the entire family. And as a new 12 months get under way, there are plans to add another chapter to its 700-year-old story, in the form of ‘pub camping’ within its four acres of grounds.

“Our aim is to create a ‘sociable hub’ offering a warm, friendly and relaxed eating and drinking experience, where service excellence; passion for our industry and attention to detail is the norm,” says Jane. “We want this to be an absolute quality destination venue at a most affordable price.” It’s that goal, combined with the desire to tune in to the needs and wishes of every single customer, that has resulted in a range of offers that are helping send the Highwayman’s Haunt to the top of the venue seeker’s list. They include the waiving of hire charges for parties, weddings and business events throughout the year, creating individually tailored menus instead of having a set one and offering a corkage price rather insisting customers buy its wines. Whether business or pleasure, the pub in Chudleigh, just eight miles from Exeter business centre and an equal distance from Torquay is just perfect. Business meetings and conferences are easily accommodated in one of the private rooms with a customized day-delegate package available along with the option to pre-order lunch for delegates.

Steve, is individually designing and building four cabins - a project that succeeds the Highwayman’s Haunt’s recent refurbishment which featured local materials, and everything tastefully created and designed by Steve, from the tables to the bar.

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The picture-book setting means many wedding couples chose it for their ‘perfect day’. Intimate celebrations are easily accommodated in the 22-seater ‘Snug’, while a marquee in the one-acre paddock can help those with bigger guest lists. Parties of 100 or more can enjoy the Highwayman’s Haunt for their own private use.

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The Highwayman’s Haunt “We’ll work with you, to make your day a special one,” assures Jane. “We have our own Hog roaster and a great team of chefs who can provide rustic charm or sophisticated finesse, the choice is yours.”

platters, the ‘Dutch Boards’, are great for a pre-dinner appetiser or as a sharing snack, while enjoying a drink with friends,” says Jane. Add a selection of good ales, a carefully selected wine list and the prospect of live music nights and summer jazz evenings and it would be no surprise to see the Highwayman’s Haunt featured on a wanted poster - for all the right reasons.

Birthdays, anniversaries, wakes, or even private dining all become extra special when held at the Highwayman’s Haunt. At the heart of it all is the food, prepared fresh to order and, where possible, from local food producers and suppliers. A specials board changes daily, to reflect seasonal availability and to showcase the chefs’ skills and cooking preferences. “Our fish is delivered daily having been locally caught and is as ethically sustainable as possible while our signature

To make an enquiry or booking or to view the pub’s latest menu, Visit: www.thehighwaymanshaunt.com Telephone: 01626 853250 or Email: info@thehighwaymanshaunt.com

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TUDOR CATERING TRAILERS

Bring your ideas to Tudor Catering Trailers and see them realised. They will work with you to present your business to your precise requirements regarding, design, layout and equipment. As approved Gas Safe installers and engineers and NIC EIC approved electrical engineers, they can complete the entire installatio, and even supply all the catering equipment and accessories that you might need for your business.

It is an exciting time for the Tudor family; who own and run Tudor Catering Trailers, not only are they celebrating 10 successful years in business they are moving to larger premises.

From March 1st they will be moving, to Unit 2, Creslands, Oldmixon Crescent, Weston Super Mare BS24 9AX. The new premises are double the size of the previous unit giving them the ability to cater for the increased demand for their products while still maintaining build times.

The standard of their work is so high that they number many prestigious names among their client list, including Longleat Safari park, Drayton Manor, and Avon and Somerset Police Force and the new Grand Pier at Weston. As their fame spreads they are doing their bit for exports too, supplying trailers abroad to Cyprus, Ibiza, Spain, France, and Ireland.

Glasses will be being raised at the new unit to the next 10 successful years as they launch a new on line shop for catering supplies at

www.tudorcateringsupplies.co.uk or contact them at sales@tudortrailers.co.uk Telephone: 01934 420033

www.tudortrailers.co.uk

They manufacture bespoke catering and exhibition trailers, and also have a thriving conversion side dealing with box vans, storage containers and airstream trailers. This creative company’s expertise doesn’t stop there; they also handle kiosks, pushable units, karts, and advertising trailer boards.

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The Mason Arms THE landlords of an award-winning Somerset pub are calling on all those who appreciate a pint to support their local hostelry.

front of the pub. It’s a natural successor to the hit party they hosted last year to celebrate the Royal Wedding while the village fete, dog show and New Year’s Eve party are always big local events. “The soul of a pub comes from those who patronise it, not just those who pull your pint,” maintains Paula. The importance the couple attribute to the pub’s place in the village is demonstrated by their tributes paid to those who gave them an ‘overwhelming’ welcome when they first arrived at the Mason’s Arms in 2005, and have continued to do so. “From John, our unconventional vicar, who broadcast details of our opening night from the pulpit, to Sheila, our local artist, who has allowed us to display her beautiful paintings of the pub; not to mention help with websites, posters, all matters chicken-related, and the provision of local honey, fish and vegetables all from talented and generous customers/villagers,” says Paula. Today the Mason’s Arms is truly at the heart of the village, popular, in one part for it’s menus.

The Cottages 4 You Best Local Pub in the UK title was the latest award to be won by the Masons Arms, in Odcombe - but owners Paula Tennyson and Andrew Read are passionate about it being a magnet for local customers as well as visitors, drawn to the picture-postcard village and thatched building. It’s that local support that’s the lifeblood of their business which, despite its excellent reputation, they acknowledge has not entirely escaped the chill winds of economic recession. The harsh climate, combined with a nationwide trend of pub closures has prompted fears that village life across Britain is dying out - an average 14 pubs a week shut between December 2010 and June 2011, said the Campaign for Real Ale last November but in Odcombe, near Yeovil, Paula and Andrew are going all out to buck that trend. “It is getting harder even though the feedback we get from customers is good and we are winning awards and we have a reputation for fabulous food,” says Paula. However, they’re forging ahead with plans for this year which include holding a street party marking the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee at the Proud to supply Drew and Paula The Masons Arms - Odcombe and wish them all the best for the future

“We believe that a pub should always be a pub not a restaurant and we, therefore, offer a blackboard menu with traditional pub grub alongside an á la carte menu that changes daily.” says Paula. “We have always used fresh local produce and while it is a formula that has grown fashionable in recent years, it has always been successful for us.” Andrew, who leads the kitchen team, is also the pub’s micro brewer, producing five ales, served exclusively at the Mason’s Arms. The ability to provide comfortable en suite letting rooms, offer a picturesque caravan and camping site and cater for private meetings and functions, are just a few more reasons why people know what a jewel lies at the heart of Odcombe. Those facilities and a jolly good jubilee knees-up. The bar is open daily from noon-3.30pm and 6pm-midnight, with food served daily from noon-2pm and 6.30-9.30pm.

For further information about the Mason’s Arms, go to www.masonsarmsodcombe.co.uk For bookings and enquiries, call 01935 862591

MILSTED LANGDON Chartered Accountants

are delighted to act as accountants for The Mason Arms and wish them every success Motivo House, Alvington, Yeovil BA20 2FG Tel : 01935 383500 Also at Taunton and Bristol www.milsted-langdon.co.uk

The fresh fish & food specialists Seafood Bar tapas & starters Butchery Smoked & cured seafood Menu alternatives Deli Desserts

The

FINE FOOD C O M PA N Y

We are proud to be associated with... Market House, Hopkinson Way, West Portway Ind Est, Andover, Hampshire SP10 3ZE Sales(Day and Night): T: 01264 321 050 E: sales@cooperfoods.co.uk W: cooperfoods.co.uk

The Masons Arms - Odcombe T: 01963 34699 F: 01963 824777 E: sales@finefoodco.co.uk

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Platters

Seafood loving Plymouth residents and visitors alike search out Platters seafood restaurant, which was opened in 1980 by Rocky Achilles and is still owned and run by the Achilles family. The restaurant sited on Plymouth’s Barbican is widely known for its wonderful fresh seafood and warm hospitality, their chefs select the finest fresh fish and shellfish daily from Plymouth’s day boats at the nearby local fish market.

Although specialising in seafood, the comfortable restaurant, decorated with sea themed wall murals from a local artist and photos of the Achilles family from the early days, offers a varied menu. Haddock, plaice, skate, gurnard, mackerel, scampi, and scallops are always available. Traditional style fish and chips, homemade crab cakes, Plymouth Clam Chowder, seafood platters, shell fish, salads, steaks, chicken, vegetarian options and their special lasagne are all prepared and served with that special Achilles family flair. Because their produce is locally sourced from the day boats they offer a catch of the day, ask your waiter for details. They are licenced, and have a good selection of red and white wines, beers, spirits, hot and soft drinks.

There is always an almost party atmosphere at Platters, which the family run to the high standards of hospitality established by Rocky himself, employing warmth and humour to welcome family and friends, and visitors old and new. Diners come from all over the UK for the fresh local seafood and the warm welcome. Among the famous visitors they have welcomed, Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber declared that his meal at Platters was “the finest fish I have tasted.”

Just round the corner from Platters is Rocky’s Grill, an exciting new venture from the Achilles family, building on their extensive catering experience. Tony said that when they looked around the area there was nothing similar, so they decided that they were just the people to fill that gap. Named in memory of Rocky himself, who sadly died 5 years ago, Rocky’s Grill is a lively steakhouse with a menu offering something for everyone. Tony Achilles, who has returned to the family business, after many years in the public sector, is delighted with the results of a recent refurbishment. The new decor is in keeping with the historic Barbican location, and has the relaxed, welcoming feel of an old fashioned hostelry. The service is one of the great things about Rocky’s, friendly and attentive; nothing is ever too much trouble. The family emphasis on quality extends here too; Rocky’s only use the best cuts of meat from West Country farms and sources local produce where ever possible to provide great food. They serve fresh, West Country steaks, prepared to your taste; grills, signature homemade burgers made from proper ground steak, big salads, very tasty, suitably sticky BBQ ribs, and a range of delicious fresh fish dishes, free range chicken and really fabulous puddings. Choose from the regular menu or their Specials Board which changes daily, offering the freshest, seasonal dishes.

Such highly experienced, specialist chefs, preparing day fresh fish, means that for seafood lovers it just doesn’t get any better than this. Everyone loves Platters for its fine food and eclectic atmosphere; it’s a great place to eat. Talk to them about hosting a function, space is limited, but it’s a fantastic place for a party or a family celebration.

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Whereas Platters clientele tends towards an established more mature type of diner, Rocky’s attracts a young crowd, families and couples, who are seeking something fresh and tasty, well served in a relaxed and informal setting. Rocky’s is a great venue for parties, office functions, pre theatre dinner, business lunches or a casual place to meet up with friends. Children are always made very welcome at Rocky’s and even have their own special menu.

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Rockys Sunday Carvery The newest venture, which everyone is talking about, is Rocky’s Sunday Carvery. What could be nicer than a delicious Sunday Roast with all the trimmings, which you haven’t had to cook yourself? Choose from a selection of West Country joints and serve yourself from Yorkshire puddings, and a delicious array of fresh vegetables, including crunchy roast potatoes, followed by a choice of scrummy desserts. Delicious food, great service and excellent value; Rocky’s and Platters look forward to serving great food, and greeting customers for at least another thirty years.

For more information please visit their websites

www.platters-restaurant.co.uk www.rockysgrill.co.uk or call us for a reservation

Platters: 01752 227392 Rocky’s: 01752 22739

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Drinks Co.

We are proud to be associated with ZŽĐŬLJ͛Ɛ Θ WůĂƩĞƌƐ ZĞƐƚĂƵƌĂŶƚƐ͕ ĂŶĚ wish them luck in the future.

info.regencywines.co.uk 01392 444123

Telephone: 01752 724 111 Email: info@cudadrinks.co.uk

www.cudadrinks.co.uk

McCarroll Foods

hƉƌŝŐŚƚ &ƌĞĞnjĞƌƐ ŝƐƉůĂLJ ĂŝƌLJ tĂůŬͲ ŝŶ

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Cold Rooms

&ƌĞĞnjĞƌ Rooms

&ƌĞĞnjĞƌƐ Ice DĂŬĞƌƐ

Chest

and much much more...

Plymouth's leading quality chilled and frozen food wholesaler wishes Rocky's & Platters continued success... Order Line:

01752 510607 5 Porsham Close | Plymouth | PL6 7DB

&Žƌ ĨƵƌƚŚĞƌ ŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƟŽŶ ƚĞůĞƉŚŽŶĞ 01752 590310 / 07973 785661 or visit www.westerncooling.co.uk

ZŽĐŬLJΖƐ Θ WůĂƩĞƌƐ ŚĂǀĞ ďĞĞŶ ĞdžĐĞůůĞŶƚ ĐƵƐƚŽŵĞƌƐ ĂŶĚ ǁĞ ĂƌĞ ƉůĞĂƐĞĚ ƚŽ ďĞ ĂƐƐŽĐŝĂƚĞĚ ǁŝƚŚ ƚŚĞŵ ĨŽƌ ŶĞĂƌůLJ 15 years. KƵƌ ǀĞƌLJ ďĞƐƚ ǁŝƐŚĞƐ ƚŽ EŝĐŬ ĂŶĚ dŽŶLJ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ ĨƵƚƵƌĞ͘

WESTERN COOLING SERVICES LTD zŽƵƌ ůŽĐĂů ZĞƚĂŝůĞ ƌ ŽĨ ŽŵŵĞ ƌĐ ŝĂů ZĞĨƌŝŐĞƌĂƟŽŶ ƋƵŝƉŵ ĞŶƚ

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Bristol Edition 11 (7):Layout 1 15/05/2012 03:09 Page 86

business nearly 60 years in

Sited in the Royal Arcade, a Victorian Shopping Arcade in the heart of Cardiff, Wally’s Delicatessen was originally set up 65 years ago, in Bridge Street by the current proprietor, Steven Salamon’s grandfather, Ignatz. The original shop started out by selling and specialising in Polish cooked meats and pickles, Hungarian salamis, German hams and sausages and European-style bread, the product range steadily grew to include Italian and Spanish cheeses, hams and salamis, French charcuterie, Greek olives, olive oils and many more continental products. Further expansion has accommodated British Gourmet foods, Belgian chocolates, American goods and South African specialities. The enticing delicatessen counter carries a vast range of cooked meats, cheeses and charcuterie from all over the world, which the friendly team are happy to let you taste before you buy. Olives occupy a 3 metre

Steven S alamon owner o Wallys f Deli

long, walk round, Olive bar, the Wines department carries a carefully chosen range of international vintages and beers, there is Italian Gelati, loose teas and coffees and a range of storebaked artisan breads. Many of the products stocked within the store are only available in the UK from Wally’s who are proud to serve the Hilton and Marriott Hotels and supply Fortnum and Mason in London with Continental Charcuterie. Wally’s also carries a range of exclusive meusli’s and mixed fruits and nuts prepared to recipes the family devised in the 1970s. They also blend freshly ground curry spices mixes to their own recipes. Wally’s have opened a Viennese style Kaffeehaus, upstairs from the main shop, with their own unique menu of continental breakfasts and open sandwiches, cakes and patisseries, Italian gelato and an exciting range of coffees, teas, hot chocolates and alcoholic beverages. Wally's Delicatessen aims to continue to offer it's customers a unique shopping experience by combining their considerable experience and knowledge of the industry with a warm welcome and good old-fashioned personal service.

38-46 Royal Arcade | Cardiff | Wales | CF10 1AE

Telephone: 029 2022 9265 Visit: www.wallysdeli.co.uk Email: enquiries@wallysdeli.co.uk 86

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The provenance of the food we eat and its wider global implications is becoming increasingly important to us all. We all prefer our food to be fresh, local and additive free, and where possible, organic and free range. Lettuce and Lovage was set up by Jo Trendall, a Bristol-based restaurant-trained foodie, with this in mind, bringing restaurant quality food to outdoor catering events, using only the freshest produce sourced from conscientious local suppliers. Since its inception in January 2009, Lettuce & Lovage has been identified by The Soil Association as a caterer who is committed to using local, seasonal and unprocessed produce – resulting in the association’s highest ‘Gold Food for Life’ catering Award, for their seasonal menus. Working with a group of young chefs who between them have

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TEL 0121 457 4810 EMAIL sales@heronpress.co.uk WEB www.heronpress.co.uk

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over 30 years catering experience, they are all equally passionate and creative about quality. They love raw ingredients and take pleasure in creating delicious, original dishes. So whether it is a wedding buffet, champagne and canapÊs, BBQ, Hog Roast, a full six course, formal dinner for 100 guests or a more intimate occasion; they take great pleasure in creating dishes for all tastes, and enjoy sitting down with their clients and discussing their dietary requirements. They will tailor a unique menu for you, one that will add to your special day and be remembered by all your guests. Whatever your event; big or small, corporate or private, Lettuce & Lovage can provide everything you need with professionalism and dedication. Telephone on 0117 985 6767 or visit the web site www.lettucelovage.co.uk for more information and menu examples. Lettuce and Lovage’s awesome food & service can now be found at their new riverside cafÊ and restaurant in the heart of the Somerset Levels in Bow Street, Langport. Set in a grade 2 listed converted warehouse, it an ideal venue for weekend brunch with friends, lazy afternoon coffee, a weekday business lunch or dinner on weekend evenings.

Office: 01179 856767 Cafe: 01458 254354 Visit: www.bowwharfcafe.co.uk

Edition11 The South Wests Leading Business & Lifestyle Publication

Tel: 08000 807 809 Email: hello@bristolbusinesspost.co.uk

www.bristolbusinesspost.co.uk

Tel: 08000 807 809 Email: hello@bristolbusinesspost.co.uk

www.bristolbusinesspost.co.uk

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