TopicUK February 2024 Edition by Yorkshire BusinessWoman & TopicUK

WWW.TOPICUK.CO.UK

NOW AVAILABLE ON HTTPS:// TOPICUK.CO.UK - FEBRUARY 2024

No64

BI-MONTHLY

BUSINESS MAGAZINE

MEET

Asma KEEPING

LAW IN YORKSHIRE YORKSHIRE TO SHOWCASE REGENERATION LEEDS MANUFACTURING FESTIVAL 2024

People. Results. Value.

We believe that when businesses work together, they can achieve fantastic things. Together, we have that power; the power to change the status quo, the power to create a better future for your business, your employees and your customers. Change rarely happens in isolation, but when businesses work together, anything is possible.

Just imagine what we could do together.

fantasticmedia.co.uk

0113 246 4425

AWARDS 2024

This issue Group Editor

Contents

Gill Laidler

Design

Rob Blackwell

Associate editor

To Partner TopicUK

Tel: 07711 539047 editor@topicuk.co.uk

The views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those held by the publishers and therefore, no responsibility can be held by the publisher for misinterpretation. Reproduction of this magazine without the express permission of the publisher is prohibited. Whilst every care is taken in the production of this magazine, the publisher/editor and staff cannot accept any responsibility for errors in articles, advertisements or programme schedules. To subscribe to this magazine contact 07711 539047 or email editor@topicuk.co.uk. Published by Ghost Publishing Limited, . Law pages are written by Lawrence & Ramsdens Solicitors LLP and TopicUK is not responsible for any advice given.

Ed Asquith

Official Photographers

Roth Read Photography

Legal Matters

Ramsdens Solicitors Chadwick Lawrence

Recruitment Stafflex

ADMINISTRATOR

Charlotte Hall

Cover : Asma Iqbal Image : Roth Read Photography

Dialect poet Yorkshire Prose captures the heart of Wakefield District

page

Start up spotlight: Sophie Seddon PR

page

The financial remedies transparency pilot scheme

page

Asma keeping law in Yorkshire Leeds Manufacturing Festival 2024

page page

10 26 46 52 72

Editors notes OUR PARTNERS

By group editor Gill Laidler

• • • •

Welcome to this edition of TopicUK magazine.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

LEXUS PHILLIP STONER JEWELLERS Yorkshire sculpture park Community Foundation Calderdale BACKSTAGE ACADEMY Chadwick Lawrence Wakefield Council Ad:Venture Eaton Smith Solicitors Stafflex Scriba PR Kirklees College University of Law Avenue hq/Barclays Eagle Lab BeVic Fantastic Media Halifax Bid HALSTON MARKETING DAKOTA HOTEL LEEDS CRAGGS ENERGY youbee Media

As usual, we’ve had a busy start to the year, but most of this time has been focussed on our sister publication Yorkshire Businesswoman and their inaugural awards on 8th March as we all celebrate International Women’s Day. I hope you were one of the lucky people to grab a ticket that were very much in demand and have been sold out since Christmas.

Another event not to be missed is Calderdale’s 2024 Year of Culture celebrations taking place at the iconic Dean Clough. Read the full story and programme of events on page 20. Thanks for reading this issue, our next will publish online the first week of April.

Gill

This edition, we feature Asma Iqbal on our cover. Asma is a partner at Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors, who incidentally are the Yorkshire Businesswoman Awards headline sponsor. Asma is very prominent within her industry and tells a fascinating story of her career to date. You can read her story on page 52. Also featured this issue is the return to Leeds of UKREiiF. This is the UK’s real estate, investment and infrastructure forum, a leading event for inward investment into the regeneration and development sectors, focused on bringing transformational, inclusive, and sustainable growth to UK cities that was a huge success in 2023. This year 12,000 attendees are expected to attend in May at The Royal Armouries. The full story is on page 16. TopicUK December 2023

Robots help academics to map out the planet’s biodiversity Simon Langdale, engineering director at Synthotech, said: “Ecologists are increasingly calling on the help of robotics and automated systems (RAS) experts to monitor the state of global biodiversity. The project shows just how crucial robotics can be in helping to monitor the planet's biodiversity so that measures can be put forward for protection and preservation. It’s a real privilege that our work in robotics could help support biodiversity sustainability.” The paper published to the RASUK network outlined a number of recommendations to inform future biodiversity strategies. It calls for the creation and funding of an integrated multidisciplinary task force, including academics and industry specialists with expertise in RAS and biodiversity, to support technological research and development. Harrogate-based Synthotech has partnered with a team of leading researchers and experts to support a groundbreaking study that could see robots deployed to monitor the state of Earth’s biodiversity. The researchers consulted with more than 100 international experts, ecologists, and engineers working in biodiversity and robotics to evaluate the potential of robotics and automated systems (RAS) that could extend the scope of terrestrial biodiversity monitoring across habitats globally. Engineering business Synthotech develops advanced AI-capable robots currently used to detect harmful leaks and fix pipes, which are all designed, developed and manufactured in the UK. The robots can be deployed remotely for long distances, which

speeds up the investigation process to aid safety and reduce environmental impact. Us i n g i t s r o b o t i c s e x p e r t i s e , Synthotech is supporting critical biodiversity research, to explore the challenges and understand where robots could be applied for ecosystem monitoring to support biodiversity conservation. The project has enabled the research team to draw up a roadmap of the monitoring barriers that should be easiest to overcome and give new capabilities in conservation.

Additionally, future UK funding should be prioritised for the developments needed to tailor these capabilities to monitoring biodiversity. New and emerging technologies need to be increased and accelerated research and development funding to turn robotics concepts into enhanced systems suited to the hardest monitoring barriers that ecologists encounter. Simon Langdale concluded: “We are fortunate in the UK to have particular strengths in biodiversity research and robotics. We are also in an ideal position to integrate these strengths and become a leading force in the development and application of RAS systems. The valuable role that robotics technology and AI have to offer cannot be underestimated in this sphere.”

Wellington Place reveals first window art installation of 2024 Wellington Place,the thriving urban quarter,has launched the next installation of its Artist’s Window initiative,which celebrates and showcases the talents of local artists.

Wellington Place, said: “We’re excited to start a brand-new year with a new window installation at 11 Wellington Place. It really is a fantastic piece of art, that depicts how wonderfully diverse the buildings across the city are. With its warming colours it’s certain to brighten up the day of those visiting and working here, this January.

On being chosen as one of Wellington Place’s window artists, Holly said: “As soon as I stepped foot in Leeds, I was inspired! There are so many wonderful buildings that caught my eye, like The Corn Exchange and the Parkinson Showcased in the window at 11 Building, so I paired this inspiration, Wellington Place, the second with a beautiful autumnal colour “We are big advocates of inspiring installation ‘September’ has been pallet representative of the season a n d s u p p o r t i n g t h e l o c a l community, including giving fresh created by second year creative I arrived here, for my artwork. talent a platform to express and advertising student Holly Prosser. Based on long autumn walks that “The Artist Window initiative has showcases themselves, and our Holly used to take when she first been an excellent opportunity to Artist Window initiative is just one arrived in Leeds, the piece depicts have my work displayed to a wider way we do that.” prominent buildings from across the audience beyond the university city, including the Corn Exchange, and setting. It’s exciting to have my uses golden shades to represent the work showcased at such a highly For more information on visited site as Wellington Place, and our Artist Windows in 2023, Autumn season. it’s something I’m very proud of.” please visit: https://www. wellingtonplace.co.uk/media/ Five winning students were selected from Leeds Art University in 2023 Dominique Murray, marketing wellington-place-launcheswith their work to be displayed across manager and head of customer new -series-of-window -artthe next year and Holly the second experience at MEPC, the developer installations -to -celebrate a n d a s s e t m a n a g e r b e h i n d young-local-talent/ artist selected. Working alongside Leeds Arts University, the Artist’s Window initiative was set up to support creative talent in the region, by providing them a platform to bring their visions to life in Leeds city centre.

TopicUK December 2023

ACS pioneers the technologies of the future Aon Plc a leading global professional services firm, is welcoming new talent to its office in Leeds with the arrival of two apprentices, three placement year students, and five recent graduates who will commence their careers with the company.

Working across a wide range of functional areas including investment consulting, client management, actuarial consulting and commercial risk and reinsurance broking, the new joiners represent Aon’s commitment to inspiring and developing the next generation of inclusive leaders. The firm’s Early Careers Programmes provide meaningful work experience opportunities and the chance to enhance professional skills through on-the-job experience.

Aon’s apprentices follow a holistic 18-month to two-year programme which combines education and work experience in parallel, on a

pathway to securing a Foundation Degree. Industrial placement year students, meanwhile, are in their third year of a university courseF

and working at Aon provides them with invaluable real-world experience before they return to complete their studies. Aon’s graduate programme, known as ‘Launch,’ is designed to develop high performers so they can gro w professionally, while transitioning smoothly into a full-time role. Jonathan Craven, partner at Aon’s Leeds office, said: “Aon is keen to attract young talent from a diverse range of backgrounds by offering a variety of routes that play to different strengths. Each Early Careers programme has been designed to ensure the next generation gains invaluable expe rie nce and support to develop their skills, and to lay the foundation for a successful and rewarding career. “Our 2023 cohort of graduates, placement students and apprentices have shown great enthusiasm, wholeheartedly embracing the opportunities on offer to learn and develop new skills. They all have a very bright future ahead.” Lucie Neal is one of those who has recently joined Aon in Leeds. She said: “I joined Aon’s Early Careers programme as I wanted a rewarding career with great prospects at a forwardthinking firm that embraces inclusivity and diversity. All my colleagues have made me feel welcome and a valued member of the team through the time and effort they have give n to support me. This, coupled with the learning resources Aon provides, has made it an enjoyable and motivating experience.”

NG Bailey secures project to support NHS emergency care development NG Bailey, the UK’s largest independent engineering and services business, has secured a £7.6m contract to support the creation of a new build Emergency Care Village for Worksop and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. The contract will be undertaken in partnership with Integrated Healthcare Projects (IHP) and will see NG Bailey delivering all mechanical, electrical and public health installations on site. This includes the new Emergency Care Village, as well as the refurbishment of existing clinical and mental health accommodation to create a new Paediatric Assessment Unit and Acute Medical Unit at Bassetlaw Hospital.

being widely used across the project and many of the service installations, including heavy duty bracketry and spools, plant room skids and distribution boards will be manufactured at NG Bailey’s specialist Offsite Manufacture facility. By using offsite construction techniques, NG Bailey is able to speed up the manufacture and installation of equipment and reduce the impact of the works on the wider hospital estate. The scheme will also be an allelectric design, to support the NHS’s drive towards net zero by 2040, as well as building on NG Bailey’s own commitment to its Net Positive responsibility strategy. Patrick Morrison, healthcare sector director at NG Bailey said: “We have a strong historical working relationship with IHP, so we’re pleased to be continuing our partnership to deliver this important project, which supports our NHS and will create improved emergency care services in the region.

NG Bailey and IHP have a longstanding partnership which has delivered many successful complex healthcare refurbishment and new build developments over the past ten years, including working on a new Urgent and Emergency Care Department “We have extensive experience in for Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS delivering healthcare projects across Foundation Trust in 2022. the UK, working in live hospital sites where maintaining high standards of A team of engineers, including ongoing patient care is vital. We have apprentices, will be on site to support worked closely with IHP throughout the delivery of the new development at the preconstruction phases to help Bassetlaw Hospital, which will increase develop the design, driving innovative the size of the Emergency Department solutions and embracing modern and provide more accessible same day methods of construction which will services. The work began in October help accelerate delivery of the scheme, this year, with the project due to be reduce carbon impact, and minimise completed in summer 2024. disruption. We are looking forward to starting work on site soon and seeing Modern methods of construction are the project complete next year.” TopicUK December 2023

Dialect poet Yorkshire Prose captures the heart of Wakefield District

To mark the launch of its 366-day programme of celebration, Our Year – Wakefield District 2024, Wakefield Council enlisted the help of Royal Navy Petty Officer and Wakefield-born poet Ben Taylor with an exclusive poem capturing the spirit of the district.

Written under his pen name Yorkshire Prose, Ben performed the piece live for the first time on Saturday in Wakefield Cathedral. This was part of a 24 in 24 event which saw 24 events take place across the district as a taste of what’s to come throughout Our Year. On the launch of Our Year 2024, Cllr Michelle Collins, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Sport at Wakefield Council, said: “This year is Wakefield’s time to shine, and we want people to be dazzled by the breath-taking spectacles and unique activities we have in store. With this in mind, we knew we needed to do something special to kick things off. So, from curated tours of the National Coal Mining Museum to plant pot painting at Pontefract Castle, our 24 in 24 events brought together our communities to start Our Year with a bang.

“Ben’s headline performance set the tone perfectly for everything the year holds. We hope his words inspire people to celebrate our district with us. Discover the brilliant things on their doorstep. And encourage

those from further afield to come and experience what Wakefield District has to offer. “There are hundreds of ways you can get involved in Our Year right across the district. With a calendar of 366 things to do during 2024 there really is something for everyone. We’re looking forward to creating memories which last a lifetime, and supporting a year which will

have a long-lasting cultural legacy for our district.” The poem’s proud celebration of what makes the Wakefield District great in the eyes of those that live there, was met with an incredible reception at the live cathedral performance.

Café Culture students take part in coffee competition

Filmed against the iconic backdrop of Wakefield’s Hepworth Gallery and the stunning scenery of Yorkshire Sculpture Park, amongst other quintessential local places, Ben’s recorded performance of the poem has also been well received across social media channels. Keen to break down barriers around art and culture, in line with the ethos of Our Year, Ben Taylor has lent his signature Yorkshire Prose dialect verse to several projects close to his heart. They include a Remembrance Day poem for The British Legion and a collaboration with Yorkshire Brewery, T&R Theakston on the emotional attachment to the pint. On the Our Year collaboration Ben said: “As a Wakefield lad myself, I had so much to go at for this piece. As part of the writing process, we invited the community to give us their favourite things about the district to create something that’s not only for Wakefield people but by Wakefield people. “We wanted to get across that it’s not just art, heritage and famous things that make Wakefield great. It’s the people and their local pride which put the heart in Wakefield, and I hope this rings true when people hear the poem.”

To find out more about the full Our Year programme head to http://ouryear2024.co.uk/

Kirklees College is excited to announce a new partnership with Coffee Brothers. Coffee Brothers are a local, family-run business and are the new coffee suppliers for the college’s Landings 72 Café and Restaurant. On Wednesday 10 January, Level 2 Café Culture students at the college took part in a coffee competition to mark the beginning of the new partnership with Coffee Brothers, judged by two representatives from the business. The students were challenged to make a coffee based on a theme of their choosing.

the competition and the new partnership, he said:

The winner was Wiktoria Piwowarska who created a Barbie themed strawberry bubble tea and strawberry milkshake.

Find out more about Landings 72 at www.kirkleescollege.ac.uk.

“We are very proud to partner with our local college and loved being part of the competition to mark the start of our collaboration with Kirklees College. We enjoyed tasting the student’s coffees and are looking forward to what’s to come during our work with the college.”

Brad Cooper, Director of Coffee Brothers was one of the judges in attendance. Speaking about TopicUK December 2023

Daniel Dawson named world’s topFerrari technician Leading family motor retail group JCT600 is thrilled to announce that Daniel Dawson has been awarded as the world’s top Ferrari technician for the 2ndconsecutive year at the 2023 Ferrari Testa Rossa Awards. The world finals were held in Maranello, the home of Ferrari. Daniel and David Hannam battled their way to the world finals, after both qualifying in their respective fields to represent the UK region. The 12 shortlisted finalists for each category were invited to compete in a centralised global event to unveil who came out on top. Daniel has worked with JCT600 for over 18 years, joining when he was just 17 as an apprentice. Dedication and focus allo wed D aniel to

qualify from the apprenticeship programme, and he has since been able to flourish into the Master Technician he is today. At 35 years old, Daniel has been with JCT600 for most of his working life, and “hasn’t looked back since”. In a world where precision and expertise matter most, Daniel continues to raise the bar. This well-deserved second win solidifies his status as a true trailblazer in the industry. The award is given to recognise pushing boundaries,

solving challenges, and proving that excellence is not just a goal, but a habit, for Daniel, David and JCT600. David Hannam, Daniel’s manager, was also one of the final 12 shortlisted in the Top Service Manager category and narrowly missed out on the podium. David has worked for JCT600 for 20 years, starting his career as an apprentice technician, through passion and a dete rmination to succeed, David secured the coveted role of Aftersales Manager at JCT600 Leeds Ferrari in 2021. To reach the world finals of the Testa Rossa Awards after only 2 years with Ferrari is truly a testament to David’s hard work

and commitment to excellence. This is an incredibly proud moment for JCT600, to have two members of the team shortlisted as re prese ntation for Fe rrari North Europe and participate in the finals on the world stage is an achievement in itself. Daniel says, “I’ve always had a passion for cars, but I didn’t really look into working in the sector straight away, I didn’t know much about apprenticeships when I left school and there wasn’t as much information or awareness at the time. I studied Maths, ICT, and D esign and Technology at AS

level, but I knew back then that it wasn’t for me. After speaking with the college counsellor to discuss options, I found out that the apprenticeship was an option. I applied immediately and had to take some further tests to find out my suitability. I was shortlisted and was successful.” Daniel continued, “Thinking of how well I’d done in 2022, I didn’t think I’d be going to the finals again this year, let alone to go and win it for the 2nd year in a row, which has never been done before!”

recognised is one of the best feelings, and it’s something the team at JCT600 are familiar with. Whilst the champagne-spraying podiums may be reserved for the famed drivers, JCT600 are extremely proud of this amazing achievement. T h e L e e d s te a m e n d e av o u r s to continue to champion the Prancing Horse in 2024. In the words of Enzo, those with “passion, wisdom and perseverance, are the engine of the world”. Pictured (left: Daniel Dawson, right: David Hannam)

The glory of hard work being rewarded and of effort being

Axiologik’s marketing director Rachel Mcelroy joins FareShare Yorkshire as a board trustee By investing time and resources into charity partnerships, businesses support their ESG and Triple Bottom Line activities and offer the ultimate blueprint for business growth.

Advanced digital delivery company Axiologik’s marketing director Rachel Mcelroy has recently joined FareShare Yorkshire as a board trustee to help shape the future growth strategy of the charity. FareShare redirects surplus food to those who need it most, minimising the environmental footprint of food that would otherwise be destined for

landfill. Axiologik’s team regularly volunteers to help the charity, aligning with the company’s underpinning value of positively impacting society.

O n joining the board, Rachel comments, “As a business, we volunteer with FareShare to help them distribute surplus food, and in the last year, this food has created 4.2m meals for vulnerable people in the region. Therefore, I have seen first-hand the impact that access to good food has on communities, g i v i n g h o p e a n d c re a t i n g t h e opportunity to come together. It is vital to ensure they have the right support from the private sector to deliver their services in the long term.”

Company of the Month TopicUK December 2023

Instantprint launches new £5m book binding division allow instantprint to improve their ever-growing booklet range by ensuring world class print quality. As part of a broader £5 million investment in its book printing division, the new seven-colour Landa S10P will significantly enhance instantprint’s production capacity. The press will be integrated alongside the existing S10P in the instantprint workflow allowing a seamless flow from customer upload and approval through to printed sheets on the floor. According to instantprint, the selection of its second Landa S10P was based on its exceptional print quality and economic advantages, which positions it well ahead of the competition.

The UK’s largest online printer Instantprint based in Yorkshire, leads the way with investments of over £5 million in their latest factory upgrade to accommodate new book binding division. The launch and investment of their new book binding division comes directly from customer feedback with the aim of making the print buying journey easier to ensure their books make their customers look exceptional. The printing giant is focusing heavily on guaranteed quality from their team of expert book makers with almost six decades of book printing experience and some of the worlds

most advanced printing presses on hand. instantprint were the proud owners of the UK’s first nanographic press, now a second Landa S10P Nanographic Printing press has been ordered to bolster instantprint’s operations in luxury and lay flat book printing, as well as stitched and perfect bound booklet products – some of the fastest growing segments of the business. This investment will

Ja m e s K i n s e l l a , c o - f o u n d e r commented: “The print market is highly competitive and to support our customers with high-quality b o o k s t h a t m a ke t h e m l o o k exceptional, we knew we need to invest in our factory to ensure that we can produce books at the highest quality and lowest unit cost. The first Landa press has fitted seamlessly into our workflow and has given us a lot more flexibility around what we can offer to our customers.” “The area that the Landa is making the biggest impact is in booklet work, perfect bound books for example are printed as blocks and then run through our Kolbus KM600. The Landa has enabled much faster turnarounds as well as opening a wider range of materials that traditionally were only available on litho quantities.”

WELCOME TO HIGHER HIRE EDUCATION Want to get ahead in your career? Learn in-demand skills in virtual production, immersive design, visual effects and more at the Academy of Live Technology. For short courses and postgraduate degrees, go to academyoflivetechnology.co.uk.

Yorkshire to showcase regeneration and development opportunities at UKREiiF

Yorkshire is set to have a huge presence at a major UK forum that is focused on connecting investors and developers with sustainable and inclusive regeneration opportunities. Over 12,000 domestic and international investors, developers, and built environment thought leaders will head to Leeds in May for The UK’s Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum, and the Yorkshire region will build on its already impressive presence at the event, with new regions set to be involved as they look to entice investment into the region to create jobs and prosperity. The biggest presence will be from West Yorkshire Combined Authority who have their own dedicated Pavilion, whilst others including Hull City Council, Sheffield City Council, South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, and York & North Yorkshire LEP have all secured a position to promote their region to investors and developers. In addition to looking to showcase and attract developers, investors, and job creators to the region, they’ll also take

to numerous stages to highlight the opportunities while discussing pressing subjects such as social and affordable housing, sustainable infrastructure, the net zero agenda, and skills. Councillor James Lewis, leader of Leeds City Council, said: “UKREiiF represents a significant platform for highlighting the city [Leeds] and our dedication to fostering innovation, inclusive growth and resilience. It demonstrates the art of the possible when private and public sector come together, working in tandem with industry leaders and fellow innovators, to drive positive change with a more diverse delegation. "Hosting the largest real estate conference of its kind in the UK is a testament to the growing reputation of Leeds and West Yorkshire allowing us to showcase our region’s vibrant economy, our regeneration market, and development opportunities; together

with our ambitions for a healthier, greener and inclusive future for the city. "We've been blown away by the positive feedback about the city from the many thousands of delegates we have welcomed each year, and we look forward to extending a warm Yorkshire welcome to many more, as UKREiiF continues to go from strength to strength. People knew about us, and the success of the last few years, but they really know our story now and we are delighted to showcase this work, our changing city and the ambitions we have for the future.” Event Background Launched in 2022, the event is held over three days and brings together the public and private sectors, with all of the UK’s cities and regions represented alongside the UK Government and numerous governmental departments. Over 700 speakers will be involved across 30 stages, including Dame Linda Pollard, Chair at The Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Tom Riordan, Chief Executive at Leeds City Council, Kate Josephs CB, Chief Executive at Sheffield City Council, Angela Barnicle, Chief Officer for Asset Management and Regeneration at Leeds City Council, Nicola Shaw CBE, Chief Executive at Yorkshire Water, Oliver Coppard, Mayor at South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, Vincent Hodder, Chief Executive Officer at Leeds Bradford Airport, Joanne Neville, Regional Head of Planning (Yorkshire & Central) at Harworth Group, Tracy Brabin, Mayor at West Yorkshire Combined Authority, and Garry Taylor, Assistant Director of Major Projects, Culture and Place at Hull City Council. The event covers many topics in addition to Yorkshire’s own presence through bespoke and dedicated content the region is planning to put on. From the high street, social value, and social TopicUK December 2023

The region's involvement includes a dedicated facilitation session where sustainability and socially aware investors and developers who’re known for their community-first approach will be introduced to those councils in attendance from the Yorkshire region to explore how they can work together across all aspects of the built environment. High Praise Yorkshire’s enhanced involvement comes following its sudden emergence as Europe’s fastest-growing real estate and built environment event.

Michael Heseltine

housing to industrial development, life sciences, energy, and healthcare estates, the event looks to showcase national and international best practice across all sectors. Having grown from 3,500 attendees in 2022 to 7,500 in 2023, the event in 2024 is set to attract over 12,000 to Leeds. In addition to 12,000 attendees, the event is set to attract a further 3,000 people to the city to enjoy the fringe events across the city, with £20m set to be generated for the local Leeds community.

UKREiiF (The UK’s Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum is the UK’s leading event for inward investment into the regeneration and development sectors, focused on bringing transformational, inclusive, and sustainable growth to UK cities and regions that is beneficial to local communities. Details: www.ukreiif.com

President of international investors Amro Partners said: “UKREiiF tells me that the UK is open to business, and as an investor, that is a fantastic message. The event brings together Government ministers and officials, people from Whitehall, local authorities, investors, and developers – it’s a phenomenal representation of the real estate sector.” Alan Denby, Director of Pride in Place at Torbay Council, added: “Being at UKREiiF has enabled Torbay to have discussions with investors, developers, and occupiers, and from these discussions we’ve announced the preferred development partner to work with us on four key development sites worth over £100m to the local community, and that investment is a direct result of being involved in UKREiiF.”

Facilitation and Investment The event has already been lauded across the UK by many cities and regions, with Torbay Council recently confirming a major £100m investment into the seaside destination, which is set to create jobs, homes, and revitalise the leisure offering in the region, in addition to several other schemes totalling over £500m

Alastair Campbell, Former Director of Communications for No. 10 Downing Street, said: “UKREiiF brings together all the different parts of the equation that are needed to regenerate regions and the economy successfully. And it’s changing people's views of the industry world. of investment known to be in the pipeline following direct facilitation and introductions at the event.

To f i n d o u t m o re , v i s i t www.ukreiif.com

BGF reports strong 2023 investment in Yorkshire BGF,one of the largest growth capital investors in the UK and Ireland, has invested £60 million in businesses in Yorkshire and the Northeast in 2023.

Across the North of England in 2023, BGF reported strong momentum, investing £115 million in small and mid-sized businesses. In total, BGF invested £430 million across the UK and Ireland in 2023. Investments in Yorkshire and the Northeast have spanned a range of sectors including technology, healthcare, property and manufacturing. Notable deals in Yorkshire include an £8.25 million investment in Leedsheadquartered healthcare specialist Primary Care Physio, £3.25 million in Harrogate-based IDR Law, which specialises in wills, probate and trust matters, and £10 million in Yorkshire housebuilder Newett Homes. Further Yorkshire investments include £12 million in acquisition software provider Tribepad, and most recently a multi-million investment in Akula Living – a marine-grade outdoor furniture manufacturer to the world’s largest hospitality and cruise operators. Exit activity in Yorkshire and the Northeast in 2023 has generated a Money Multiple (MM) of 2.5x. BGF continued to invest in its own team in 2023 following the appointment of Becky Odam who has joined the portfolio team. As of January 2024, Barry Jackson (pictured), who is responsible for BGF

Barry Jackson

in Yorkshire and the Northeast will to provide minority, long-term and now also lead the Northwest team in patient capital to a diverse range of high Manchester following the departure of growth and high-quality businesses so Neil Inskip, who is leaving BGF after that they can maximise their potential.” a 12-year tenure. Barry will continue to report to Richard Taylor, head of “I’m looking forward to expanding my remit into the Northwest, working even growth investments at BGF. more closely with colleagues across our regional teams.” Potential Barry said: “Our 2023 investments have demonstrated the scale of opportunity to continue backing high-quality businesses in the North of England. We are positive about investment activity in the coming year and will continue

In December 2023, BGF achieved B Corp status, further bolstering its long-standing commitment to creating a positive impact both within the organisation and across the wider economy. TopicUK December 2023

Dean Clough sets precedent for Calderdale's year of culture Dean Clough, the 22-acre mixed use destination in Halifax, has reported a successful year in business as it prepares to play a key role in Calderdale’s 2024 Year of Culture celebrations. The historic venue has enjoyed a period of evolution with new flexible working and wellbeing initiatives that have attracted a multitude of new customers. It has also extended relationships with existing occupiers throughout 2023, signifying a positive return to workplace engagement.

of Covea Insurance and provides the Halifax base for Chadwick Lawrence solicitors. Whilst a drive to incentivise more businesses to benefit from the characterful Grade A office space at Dean Clough is underway, its cultural attraction has also significantly boosted its national profile.

In the last fifteen months alone Dean Clough has signed and renewed deals with occupiers on more than 110,000 sq ft of space and currently has a further 110,000 sq ft of work, office, and leisure space in discussion or under offer.

Dean Clough was selected to host the ultimate awards finale for The

Jeremy Hall, chairman and managing director said, Recent highlights include the UK’s “We are delighted to have largest online florist, Prestige Gifting, enjoyed such a vibrant and taking a 10,000 sq ft HQ, a new productive year at Dean purpose designed 8,000 sq ft gym Clough, working with the facility for Jim-Nas-Tiks, and Pinc College supporting neurodiverse wonderful mix of creative students taking 4,000 sq ft. Greenarc and engaged partners and Energy, SSP, And Digital, Frog, Chef stakeholders... Benson Smith Academy and HUBB Coffee have also helped to boost trading at Dean Clough and enhance its digital and educational excellence.

Considerable investment in renovating more of the unique spaces within the historic mill buildings has also attracted a number of independent retail operators offering beauty, health and wellbeing, and upmarket shopping. Dean Clough is already home to around 150 businesses employing over 3,000 people including the UK HQ

British Urban Film Festival (BUFF) as its first venture outside of London. It also hosted award winning TV and film productions including Happy Valley, the Gallows Pole, and Marvel’s Secret Invasion, giving substance to the regions ‘Culturedale’ label. Dean Clough has long been widely recognised for itccs cultural offering including its unique subterranean theatre and one of the largest private art galleries in the UK which is free to

the public. The theatre has enjoyed a great year of diverse productions with the hugely popular pantomime just ended and this experience is bolstered with pre theatre dining experience in True North restaurant - together with the other establishments on site. The Mills are the home of the world-renowned theatre company, Northern Broadsides whose mixed touring programme of Shakespearean productions, adapted classic plays and new writing in a northern voice have built a significant following. Dean Clough hosted the “Our House Party” event in the summer, and the Prestige/Next Level firework extravaganza in November, attracting thousands of partygoers to Dean Clough in the process. The mills are also the base for the Halifax Philharmonic Club, hosting a wonderful mix of concerts for the second year in succession and is also set to host the launch of Calderdale’s landmark Year of Culture 2024 later this month, playing an integral part in activities throughout the year. Jeremy Hall, chairman and managing director said, “We are delighted to have enjoyed such a vibrant and productive year at Dean Clough, working with the wonderful mix of creative and engaged partners and stakeholders from and within our extensive community. “The outputs achieved reflect the benefits of the long-term investment and commitment of all our stakeholders, building on the incredible

legacy of the mills. The community of Dean Clough has always been rooted in creativity, business, and place making to create and foster a location which is attractive and appealing to people and businesses alike. The new and sustaining deals we have signed in the last period are a notable achievement and are a direct testament to that journey and investment.“The reuse of these historic mills delivers indisputable carbon benefits, which when combined with a best practice approach to their repurposing creates a product that is energy efficient, sustainable, and rewarding.

“There is such a vibrant breadth of amenity on site now, with a fabulously diverse range of cafes, bars, restaurants, hairdressers, beauticians, therapists, retailers, galleries, theatre and student facilities. With the enviable combination of landscaped space, engaging public realm, and ample onsite parking, we feel that the Dean Clough offer and community has become even more relevant to the requirements and needs of the market since the pandemic reset. “The site benefits from constant evolution and investment, numerous

projects are planned for the coming year which include amongst others, the installation of high-speed EV charging stations which will be a fantastic addition to the sites offer” Dean Clough has energy efficient Grade A work and office space available – up to 50,000sq.ft. in addition to serviced offices/retail/ workspace from 50sq.ft. Dean Clough is located on the edge of Halifax town centre, between Leeds and Manchester, and just 15 minutes from the M62 with direct train links to Leeds, Manchester, York and London. TopicUK December 2023

Chief information officer joins growing Caddick business The Caddick Group has appointed Simon Coulson as chief information officer, a new role that signals a step-change in operational systems as the Group continues to expand across Yorkshire, the Northeast, North West and the Midlands.

locations and different disciplines have a consistent experience with a highly functional IT system is fundamental to their success.”

of high-profile projects for the construction and financial sectors. His remit will see him scrutinise IT and CRM systems to ensure they perform in-line with business and client needs.

Paul Dodsworth, Group managing director, added: “I’m delighted to welcome Simon to the team. In our pursuit of sustainable growth, it’s important we attract the best talent to our business. Before we grow, we need to ensure all our business functions are fit for purpose. This means questioning how we do things and ensuring that we’re giving our people and clients the very best tools to succeed. Embracing technology i n co n st ruct i o n i s beco m i n g increasingly important, particularly with the use of AI, and its business critical that we keep pace with this change, for the future success of our business.”

Simon’s position will see him design and oversee information and computing across both Caddick Construction Group and Caddick Developments, ensuring that systems are smooth, operationally effective, and futureproofed for growth. The new role is the latest in a line of senior appointments for Caddick to ensure its sustainable growth is managed meticulously in terms of IT systems, sustainability, commercial performance and supply chain management. Simon joins after 20 years as an IT consultant working on a number

Simon commented: “As a business grows, it evolves. To make sure this change is smooth, all IT systems need to adapt with expansion. At the same time, systems need to be forward-looking and joined up; in the case of Caddick, the Group operates across multiple regions with Caddick Construction also delivering some of Caddick Developments’ project pipeline. Ensuring teams in different

TopicUK December 2023

Yorkshire fabric manufacturer hires trio of textile graduates AW H a i n s w o r t h , a 24 0 - y e a r - o l d fa b r i c manufacturer and woollen mill responsible for the look of iconic England,has hired three textile graduates from northern universities.

Angela Augusto, Rachael Frame, and Polly Armond are the newest additions to the Hainsworth team and part of the company’s future of textile expertise. Angela and Rachael have joined the team as technical and innovation managers, responsible for driving innovation, product development and continuous improvement. They have recently graduated with a Masters in Textile Science from

the University of Leeds and are already applying that knowledge at the mill.

improvement to secure the firm’s future as an innovator in fabric development.

Polly is a design and development manager joining the Replin team to create bespoke fabric designs for aviation and rail. Polly studied textiles at Manchester Metropolitan University, specialising in weaving, and is already contributing to key projects as part of the design team.

As part of this, AW Hainsworth completed the development of a UKAS-accredited, state-of-the-art laboratory in 2022 that includes a range of advanced instruments and machinery to enhance in-house testing abilities.

AW Hainsworth is committed to b r i d g i ng t h e s ki l l s g a p i n the UK textile industry, and these recent hires are part of that pledge. The family-run, heritage textile mill is also investing significantly in UK textile innovation - ensuring continuous quality, skills and sustainability

A m a n d a Mc L a r e n , m a n a g i n g director, comments, “We are so pleased that Angela, Rachael and Polly have chosen to join us and excited to leverage the knowledge they all bring to their roles. All three talented graduates have settled into life at the mill seamlessly, and we are excited to see what their careers with us will bring.

TAX-WISE PENSION PLANNING FOR 2023/24 Authors: Simon Cowley of Yorwealth Financial Planners and Rebecca Davison, head of tax at Parsons, Chartered Accountants. Given these advantages to pensions it is no surprise that there are certain limits that sit alongside pension legislation and falling foul of these can cause unwelcome tax liabilities. This is definitely one area where doing it yourself and getting it wrong could cost you far more in penalties and tax than it would cost you to seek professional advice. Contact us if we can help you. Parsons and YorWealth will be hosting a free webinar on the subject of business exit and pensions in March. Watch-out for details at parsons.co.uk

With the tax year end in sight, there’s still time to consider how to maximise any unused tax allowances, particularly when it comes to pension planning. Pension-related budget changes in April included:

This content is for information purposes only. For personalised and regulated advice regarding your situation, please consult an independent financial adviser.

can be complex. The mechanism and timing of withdrawals should be carefully planned.

YorWealth Ltd is an appointed representative of Hexagon Wealth Limited • The annual allowance increased to £60,000 for the current tax year. Many of the tax advantages around which is authorised and This is the most you can contribute pension planning are well known regulated by the Financial before being subject to income tax. including tax relief on contributions Conduct Authority (FCA for your business and personally, tax no.483403). For registered • Contribution allowances increased efficient returns within the pension itself, company details visit http:// for those remaining in a pension 25% tax free lump sum at retirement, tinyurl.com/ylvdtcxn the wider range of investable assets Contact us on 01924 669 500 after drawing benefits. within a pension (such as commercial or 01904 925 300. • The pension lifetime allowance property), the ability to loan back funds will be abolished in April and the to one’s business and the IHT saving on maximum amount of tax free assets left to beneficiaries in the event cash that can be withdrawn will of one’s death. However, there can be beneficial effects on other tax allowances be frozen at £268,275. that making additions to your pension Understanding how much you can pay can help with, such as the child benefit into a pension, particularly if you have tax charge and the reclaiming of your income over £200,000 and/or are a personal allowance for those earning member of a final salary pension scheme, over £100,000 in the tax year. TopicUK December 2023

AD:VENTURE Start up spotlight: Sophie Seddon PR By: Daneile Moore AD:VENTURE

Learning from peers can provide valuable insights to new business owners. Here we talk to Sophie Seddon to hear how her journey began, and what she’s learned along the way! Sophie, tell us a bit about yourself. I am a mum to two daughters, Ellie (14) and Gracie (10). We have a golden retriever, two indoor kitties

and a pony that we have on loan. As we are mostly females my husband is outnumbered. I am a former journalist (NCTJ qualified) and a former West Yorkshire Police Communications

Officer (some call the role poacher turned gamekeeper) who stepped away from traditional employment to establish my copywriting and public relations business – a venture that began somewhat serendipitously. What sparked the initial idea for your business? Somewhere deep down I always knew

I would. The decision arose from the challenges of shift work and on-call rota responsibilities conflicting with family life. As my husband worked on establishing his businesses, I found myself at a crossroads. A chance encounter with another mum and doctor while dropping my daughters off at ballet set the wheels in motion. Over coffee in a supermarket café, she sought help with promoting her occupational health care company. Word-of-mouth referrals followed, forming the foundation of my own small business – Sophie Seddon PR. What was your biggest obstacle when launching your business? Myself ! My self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and perfectionism tendencies initially held me back. Overcoming these limitations required the belief and encouragement of others. Ironically, despite spending my career promoting others, publishing my website took a year as I grappled with the challenge of self-promotion. I always knew I could handle managing my business, I just needed to believe. What resources or tools were most helpful during your start-up journey? Joining the AD:VENTURE Business Support Programme in Kirklees was instrumental in overcoming my moments of doubt. The mentorship from my business manager, Bruce McLeod, and the supportive network of fellow entrepreneurs kept me going. AD:VENTURE’s free workshops for start-ups provided valuable insights

into various elements of running a business. Learning from each other has been a key aspect of my journey. What surprised you the most about starting your own business? Discovering the importance of networking and, dare I say it, selfpromotion. Shifting from promoting others to working on my own business required a mindset adjustment. Embracing self-promotion, even when uncomfortable, became essential to thrive in a competitive market. Helping other businesses find a comfortable spotlight has become my mission. What advice would you give to your younger self about starting a business? Don’t listen to that niggling voice of self-doubt and start sooner. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Embrace courage, take risks, and recognise that learning is a crucial part of the process. What does success look like for you and your business? Happy clients. Success, for me, is reflected in the satisfaction of my clients. I assist them in finding their voice in a crowded market. Returning clients indicate that I’ve played a role in their success. What are some of the unexpected joys and rewards you’ve experienced as a business owner? Building a supportive network through AD:VENTURE and the Honley

Business Association has been a joy. Collaborations and partnerships have led to lasting friendships. In the end, we’re all in it together, and there’s a wonderful network of support. What keeps you motivated and inspired on challenging days? My family. I aim to inspire my daughters, showing them the value of overcoming self-limiting beliefs and pursuing their dreams. Additionally, the joy of contributing to other businesses’ success, rooted in my passion for promoting others, fuels my determination. How do you assure your clients that their messaging and communication needs are handled with expertise and care? ‘Said and Done’ is more than a tagline; it’s a family motto that echoes through generations of Seddons. This guiding principle has deeply influenced the ethos of my business. It signifies not just making promises but ensuring they are fulfilled effectively. In every client interaction, I bring the same commitment to turning words into actions. With me, your words are in safe hands. To f i n d o u t m o r e a b o u t Sophie Seddon PR visit www.sophieseddonpr.co.uk To l e a r n m o r e a b o u t AD:VENTURE and register for funded support, visit www. ad:venture.org.uk

TopicUK December 2023

New Sheffield Chamber of Commerce president appointed Alexis said: “I am honoured to take on the responsibility of being President of the Chamber and representing our members. Sheffield has momentum but, like many cities, it must wrestle with many challenges that will impact on businesses and the wider economy over the coming years.

Sheffield businessman and communications specialist Alexis Krachai has been appointed as Sheff ield Chamber of Commerce’s newest Chamber President. Alexis brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role, as both managing director of specialist communications agency Counter Context, and a leading figure in the region’s business community. He is also well-known across the city as a strong advocate for private sector leadership and driving change across the economy. Alexis is a non-executive director on the Chamber’s board. He led the organisation during the pandemic as co-interim chief executive, alongside the now permanent chief executive Louisa Harrison-Walker. Alexis took over from the outgoing

“I am naturally optimistic and upbeat. Together there is nothing we cannot achieve in Sheffield, but we must not dodge the difficult conversations about how to build greater strength and resilience in our economy. Without a stronger economy we cannot address the inequality in the city or face the mounting challenges like energy and food price rises and the impacts of extreme weather. “My focus on driving investment in culture stems from so many conversations over the years – culture will be the answer to many of Sheffield’s questions. Investment in culture is what brings people together and makes for an amazing place to live and work. Investment in culture is all about celebrating diverse communities and ensuring our city and district centres are always buzzing. O ver time, a buzzing city creates more jobs, more President Karen Mosley, managing businesses and wider prosperity. director of HLM Architects, at the Karen Mosley, outgoing chamber Chamber’s AGM this week. The AGM president, said: “During my time took place at Henry Boot PLC’s new as chamber president we have seen office in Isaacs Building, part of the great progress in breaking down barriers for young people. With Heart of the City development. the help of our Chamber members, In his term, Alexis will be focussing we’ve been able to turn policy his efforts on advocating that Sheffield into funding and an action plan to has a long-term plan to retain and create a more agile skills system, attract talented people by driving greater unleashing more talent to provide investment into culture across the city. real business benefit.”

Greenarc named best emerging Green Energy Provider Greenarc Limited, a leading provider of clean energy solutions is delighted to announce that they have won the SME News Northern Enterprise Awards – Best Emerging Green Energy Provider of 2023.

Greenarc's award-winning services include solar panel installation, electric vehicle charging solutions, and energy efficiency consultancy. The company is passionate about helping businesses transition to clean energy and reduce their carbon footprint.

The Northern Enterprise Awards are an amalgamation of fine companies and people who, individually and collectively, elevate our experience of business in the North of the UK – and beyond! They influence the rest of the country with their dedication to excellence, devotion to client satisfaction, and aweinspiring stories of success.

Chris Bingham, chairman and CEO of Greenarc comments: “To be named in such a prestigious list of northern-based businesses is an honour for myself and my team. This award establishes our unique position as a full-service energy provider offering traditional and clean energy solutions which I believe sets us apart from others in the energy sector.

2023 was a monumental year for Greenarc and to end the year with another award win is a testament to the dedication we have to easing the world’s journey to clean energy. I’m looking forward to what the New Year will bring for our growing business.” Looking ahead, Greenarc is committed to expanding its reach and helping even more businesses embrace clean energy in 2024.

TopicUK December 2023

Epic Installation ‘Soundscapes’ Premieres in Skipton Soundscapes - an immersive audio-visual installation that invites audiences on a sensory journey through the Yorkshire Dales - premieres in Skipton on 14 March, 2024. Created by the immersive media artist Michaela French and composer Be n Crick, Soundscapes will showcase the diverse scenery of the Yorkshire Dales. Projected inside a purpose-built hemispherical dome, Soundscapes combines 360° videography of the Yorkshire Dales with a symphonic soundtrack, inspired by the landscape.

The unique project sees audiences sit, or lie, under the cinematic dome to undertake an extraordinary experience of sight, sound, and space, with the original orchestral composition performed by Skipton Camerata, North Yorkshire's only professional orchestra. The installation is the brainchild of one of Yorkshire’s leading

composers and conductor of Skipton Camerata, Ben Crick. Ben Crick said: “My hobby has always been caving, climbing, and walking. What I wanted was to take people on a musical journey to these places they might not otherwise see. So, I’ve created a musical portrayal of what it feels like to be there.” Up to 14 visitors at a time can occupy the dome to experience the ‘cave’ like immersive installation.

drama in what it makes you feel and that’s the intention.” Immersive media artist Michaela French has a PhD in Information Experience Design from the Royal College of Art, London. Michaela is co-founder of the Fulldome Creative Network and serves on various advisory boards around immersive media spaces; she’s collaborated with festivals and events around the world including in Australia, Mexico, and Amsterdam. Michaela French said: “It really starts with this extraordinary landscape, and our relationship with it, both of which are under pressure – us, and our natural world. I’ve lived in Yorkshire for just two years, so for me, it’s like wonderland, new and different, so I hope to bring a fresh pair of eyes to Ben’s viewpoint.” A dynamic team of creatives from across the north has collaborated to design the installation. The team was spearheaded by experts from Northumbria University's architecture department, including Peter Dixon, who led on the exhibition interpretation and production, and Shaun Young and Steve Roberts, as architectural leads. The bespoke joinery and specialist fit-out company, Hadley, also played a crucial role in constructing the Dome.

We hope to lift audiences and transport them via the beauty of nature and the power of music... Ben said: “We hope to lift audiences and transport them via the beauty of nature and the power of music. The high harmonics of violins will sound like the breeze, and violins and violas reflect the dance of the water; there is

Additional structural engineering support came from Anton Sawicki from the engineer consultancy, Buro Happold. Graphic design was created by Field Design, and Heather Ditch provided the written interpretation. The idea evolved from a project Ben initiated combining his music with footage of the Yorkshire Dales in virtual reality headsets, which received hugely positive responses. Katie Peacock, who runs the volunteer group Exclusively Inclusive that trialled

the headsets, said: “It’s not easy for a lot of people to get into the countryside but this unique approach removes those physical barriers. I saw people responding to places they hadn’t seen in decades, and people who might struggle with anxiety, begin to relax. It genuinely transported people.” Classical music and nature are proven to boost wellbeing. Numerous studies show classical music can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and even boost immunity and memory function. Research around the BBC’s Planet Earth series found that even watching nature on our screens is shown to substantially decrease anxiety. Ben has held a BBC Music Fellowship and worked with orchestras throughout the world conducting the likes of Lesley Garrett, Sir Willard White, and Raphael Wallfisch, and is also the co-founder and conductor of the Yorkshire Symphony Orchestra. Ben has written soundtracks for games, adverts, animation, and film. He teaches at the University of Huddersfield and Leeds Conservatoire, and sits on the Bradford Cultural Voice Forum. Ben added: “The Yorkshire Dales has inspired artists throughout the centuries. We know audiences are going to be left in awe, experiencing this immersive, emotional, and inspiring journey.” The story behind the music-and-nature installation, the design and construction of the dome, and the health and wellbeing reasons that motivated the project will be told in the enclosing exhibition at Skipton Town Hall. Soundscapes is at Skipton Town Hall from 14 March – 1 June 2024. Entry to the gallery is free. Find more information and gallery opening times by visiting skiptontownhall.co.uk TopicUK December 2023

that chapter. At Hedonist we did some incredible things (from the bar to the events company) but now is the time to change and evolve. It is useful to also focus our minds on one thing. Welcoming and increasing the team as the demand is sky high for work.”

Bruce and Joe : Image Jo Ritchie

Event companies ‘Endpoint Creates’ and ‘Hedonist Events’ merge Events brands, Hedonist Events and Endpoint Creates, are thrilled to announce they have merged together to create a brand new operation. T h e co m p a n i e s w i l l b e officially known as Impact Collective evolving the two teams into a powerhouse within the industry. Impact Collective is set to combine the strengths and expertise of both Hedonist and Endpoint, positioning the brand as a leading force within the events sector. With a shared vision of delivering unparalleled experiences and a commitment to pushing creative boundaries, the union is set to bring about a new era of impactful and memorable events.

The merger is set to bring together the complementary strengths of Hedonist Events, known for its trendsetting concepts and highprofile clientele, and Endpoint Creates, renowned for its logistical and technical execution. Through collaboration, the team will be able to achieve excellent innovation and creativity, expanded services and a greater global reach. Impact Collective’s combined creative teams will leverage their diverse experiences to craft immersive and unforgettable experiences, tailored to the unique needs of each client. Speaking about the new brand, director Bruce Lerman, said “It’s a really exciting time for us. We have won some major work for 2024 and the move away from Hedonist and Endpoint, draws a line in the sand of

Hedonist Events are continually recognised for its unique and creative initiatives, working with leading global brands to execute events with impact. The team recently have worked across a range of sectors, largely specialising in food and beverage, including Plenish, London Essence, Rockstar, Sachio Drinks and Britvic. Praised for their fun and modernist approach to brand representation, Hedonist events harness creative excellence to revolutionise the way consumers see and remember brands. Endpoint Creates were praised f o r t h e i r l o g i s t i c a l p ro w e s s , paving the way in the events sector for companies striving to create meaningful experiences. An experiential production team, Endpoint combines technological expertise, creative flare, and strategic design to create immersive event spaces across the arts and media sector. Recent clients include leading streaming services Netflix and Amazon Prime, drinks brand Old Jamaica, and internationally esteemed car manufacturer, Porsche. Director Joe Longbottom, is delighted with the merger, stating… “I am thrilled with the new direction of the business this merger offers us, we are looking at really pushing things forward for 2024. It’s a fresh start to integrate that will enable our companies to thrive and share their expertise making an events company with expert ability to create some incredible experiences for our clients.”

What does podcasting have to Ready to level up your do with personal branding content creation? By: Becky Lamb-Pritchard

leader’ in your industry. You can

V i s i t o u r “ m i n i T V s t u d i o ” i n L e e d s f o r p rbe o authentic, fessio nitaallows l you to and portray your true character a u d i o a n d v i d e o r e c o r d i n g . A v a i l a b l e t o f i l m u p t o 4 and i n - p e r s o n g u e s t s i n a r e l a x e d s e t t i n g o rpersonal p a t‘brand’ c h ibe n that playful, cheeky, fun, serious, authoritative r e m o t e l y . S t u d i o l i g h t i n g & 4 K c a m e r a s it’s e your n sbrand, u r eyou decide and use the platform t e l e v i s i o n q u a l i t y f o o t a g e a n d p l e n t y o f b r a n dtoihelp n gelevate you. options to create your bespoke space. 3.

Content X 10 - with more and more people working on and developing W h e t h e r y o u ’ r e r e c o r d i n g y o u r l a t e s t p otheir d cpersonal a s t ,brand o nit lincreasingly ine means they need to “show up” tutorials or short-form video content for your social and that often means more and platforms, we can help. more social and digital content. The demands of social seem never ending, creating endless TikToks and Insta reels, even Linkedin Personal branding has been around for years, some might say is pushing for video content, to forever actually, but it is definitely one of the hot topics of the creating newsletters and webinars. moment, especially when it comes to Solopreneaurs, Entrepreneurs One podcast can be cut and crafted and small businesses. to give you 10 x more content. You can cut if for shorter form content podcast studio is actually a mini You are your brand, at all times, and platforms, you can film it for video TV studio and is great for creating more and more people are realising content or you can repurpose your all sorts of online content. From that how they show up in their personal content into blogs and newsletter long form content like webinars life should align with how they show content, you may even find it gives and tutorials, to short form content up in business. Expert coaches are in you extra PR content! suitable for TikTok and Insta reels. demand more than ever helping people Increasingly we have a variety of define their true authentic selves and clients booking out the studio All in all, if you are giving your personal stick to their core values no matter the to create social and other online brand some serious thought, then don’t environment they find themselves in. forget to add podcasting into that mix. It content, not just podcasting. may just do a few jobs in one! So how does that fit into what we 2. Podcasting is a great way to do as an audio agency? showcase your personal brand. I ’ m a l w a y s h a p p y t o c h a t It’s a platform that can allow podcasting so drop me an email 1. Well firstly, and probably the you to position yourself as an at becky@thisisdistorted.com most obvious, we have a visual authoritative voice or ‘thought @thisisdistorted audio studio. What we call our

www.thisisdistorted.com @thisisdistorted

TopicUK December 2023

Larger office premises for leading commercial building consultancy Leading commercial building, project and sustainability consultancy Jones Har greaves has moved to larger premises in Leeds to support its continued expansion. The consultancy firm has made a 1,500 sq ft office in The Ironworks building on David Street in Leeds its new base in the city. Sitting in the heart of Holbeck, The Ironworks is a newly built residential development with comme rcial use on the ground floor.

The new workspace provides a modern, high specification environment focussed on colleague wellbeing and productivity. They also have best-in-class energy efficiency standards, reflecting Jones Hargreaves' commitment to assisting clients in improving their ESG and carbon impact. The office moves follow a successful 2023, during which the business rose from a team of 22 to 35 and opened new offices in Manchester, Bristol and Glasgow

in direct response to demand for se rvices including its inhouse ESG expertise. Matthew Jones, founding partner said: “Last year we had planned to implement sustained growth and we’re delighted to have achieved this while working on a range of incredible projects with our clients. It was a momentous year for Jones Hargreaves and we’re really proud of the whole team. “I’d like to extend a warm welcome to our newest team members, who join us at an exciting time. As we move forward, we’ll continue to concentrate on delivering quality projects and hiring fantastic people to keep standards high in the commercial building sector.”

TopicUK December 2023

Brewing equipment specialist toasts record year Bradford-based brewery equipment specialist, Collective Motion Brewing, is raising a glass to a record year of business with turnover up by 60% in 2023. The company, which supplies and services a wide range of production systems, has also seen revenue rise by 60%, largely through growing demand from independent brewers looking to improve energy efficiency, minimise waste and reduce running costs. Sales have increased across Collective Motion Brewing’s range of products, which includes newly developed and upgraded systems alongside refurbished machinery. Tomasz Lenartowicz, director said: “2023 was the year when our business really took off. We have become a very well-established name in the industry,

and we have developed relationships with new clients throughout the UK. Many brewing, distilling, and cider making companies have purchased products from Collective Motion Brewing and then signed up for our planned maintenance package to ensure that their facilities are free of downtime and remain optimised for efficiency and quality control.” Dominic Smith, director said: “The brewing industry, like many other manufacturing sectors, has been challenged in recent years by rising energy prices, but many brewers have been proactive in finding ways to mitigate those costs. They have recognised that investing in enhanced efficiencies will deliver substantial longterm savings. A number of our clients have estimated that the equipment upgrades we implemented will achieve between £50,000 and £100,0000 in savings per year in running costs.”

Collective Motion Brewing plans to build on its success with increased investment in R&D in 2024. Its 1,300 sq ft premises in Bradford includes a workshop and R&D centre to trial new solutions in keg washing and filling. Tomasz said: “Innovation is a big part of what we offer. I have a mechanical engineering background and Dominic has a background in electrical engineering as a lead designer of control systems. We apply that experience to design and test new concepts in brewing equipment. We will be launching some new cost-effective systems in 2024 which are designed to help smaller breweries to manage their operating costs and help to take a first step towards automation in their production facility. This is important to minimise the cost of production and stay above the red line or simply to increase the profit margin.”

Portrait Photographers Why NOW is the best time to of the Year! submit your Tax Return T h e Ro t h Re a d h o u s e h o l d i s fu l l o f g i d d i n e s s a f te r snagging the Prestige Portrait Photographers of the Year 2023/24 award. Hoorah!

The Prestige panel carefully assessed our on-location portrait photoshoots, recognising not only technical aspects but also the unique locations, the collaborative relationship with our clients, and the guidance provided throughout each session. Every business seeks a distinctive quality that sets them apart, and ours lies in the dedicated time invested in our client’s sessions. It’s truly rewarding to see that aspect recognised and appreciated. Living a life we love It’s been a fare old trip since we left our IT contracting roles in the NHS in 2017 to set up our photography business. The passing of our dads, within a year of each other, served as the calling card to live a life we love. Photography has featured significantly in both our lives, tracing back to our early teens when anything digital only turned up as a plastic prop on Star Trek. From using a parent’s Box Brownie to a tiny Kodak Extralite 400, progressing through the earliest digital cameras to our latest Canon 5D mark IV’s, the

fascination of capturing a moment in time has remained.

built our brand, established a studio and identified our ideal customers.

Pastime to professional

Everything was going swimmingly until the world shut down for Covid. In total, it set us back around two years since we were amongst the last businesses to be released from lockdown. Bouncing back took some effort, but we’re grateful that we did.

Turning that love into a business presented its fair share of challenges, especially as we had no idea how to kickstart or run a business. Our starting point was to build a portfolio, inviting friends to be photographed in our kitchen against a simple black or white backdrop. We took those images, created a website and waited for customers. Alas, no calls, no emails, no idea! Naturally, coming from NHS b a c k g ro u n d s o u r i d e n t i t y a s photographers was unknown, and we found ourselves buried under a stack of Google pages. The turning point came when someone introduced us to networking, sparking a steady climb. We gained momentum, successfully

Photographing the future Now here we are! Our business growing, with Portrait, Commercial and Event shoots flowing in – and to top it off, a cool award to celebrate not just our pictures, but our hard work, resolve and enduring love of photography. And we’ll continue photographing people and weaving their stories into framed wall art, because the idea that our images will spark conversations and evoke emotions across generations, affectionally connecting the present to the past, is a sheer privilege. Lincoln & Perrin Roth Read Photography www.rothreadphotography.com TopicUK December 2023

AI innovations set to revolutionise the NHS Yorkshire renewables firm surges past £40m with tenth acquisition On the day that VAT for battery storage solutions reduces to 0 per cent, the UK's fastest growing renewable installer announces its tenth acquistion Fast-growing cleantech business Green Building Renewables' tenth acquisition sees it surpass the £40 million turnover milestone as it continues its rapid expansion across England at the start of 2024.

Crawley-based Doré Woodman has joined Green Building Renewables' nationwide network of renewable experts, allowing the company to expand further into Kent, Surrey, and Sussex. Consumers no longer need to install solar panels alongside battery storage solutions to benefit from the new rate, This means households which already have solar panels but no battery storage can now install battery storage solutions at the new rate.

Battery Storage Solutions, like the Tesla Powerwall, also allow consumers to fill their batteries with cheaper night-time electricity and use it during the day when electricity rates can be higher. This is particularly useful during the dark winter months when there is less sun, if a household has solar. However, customers don’t need to have solar panels to benefit from storing cheaper energy at night and using it during the day. Growth Since 2021, Green Building Renewables has increased its turnover more than tenfold from £3m to over £40m. At the same time, staff numbers have risen from 18 in its York office to over

200 across its fourteen regional offices in England. The UK government has a solar target of 70GW by 2035. Green Building Renewables' rapid growth in the last two years reflects the increasing demand for domestic and commercial solar. At the same time, a fluctuating market has seen the demand for low carbon and more efficient heating solutions increase. Last year was a record year for Heat Pump installations, with 39,268 installed in the UK. The record beats the previous one set in 2022 with an increase of nearly 20%. Whilst this figure includes only those heat pumps certified by the MCS, the true number is not likely to be much higher. Doré Woodman's acquisition and Green Building Renewables' further expansion into the South and home counties is part of the company's continued strategic vision to extend the benefits of solar energy and low carbon heating to as many local communities as possible nationwide. Green Building Renewables' model is built on providing regional expertise and cutting-edge technology, which is only installed by local in-house engineers. The company aims to deliver efficient, reliable, costeffective renewable solutions, including solar and heat pumps, to the domestic and commercial sectors across the UK.

double milestone for the company and a great start to the year. Everyone within the business can be extremely proud of our achievements in the last two years. Unique “We have grown our reach and expanded our coverage across England. Our ambitions for 2024 are even bigger as we aim to have full coverage of England. We welcome Ben Freeman and the team at Doré Woodman to ours." Green Building Renewables offers a range of renewable technology solutions through its growing network of local energy experts. It provides air and ground source heat pumps, underfloor heating, solar PV, EV charging, and battery storage. Ben Freeman, founder of Doré Woodman, said on the deal, "From the outset of our discussions, it was clear that Green Building Renewable is creating something unique. Its model of a nationwide network, based on local installers, is exactly what this market needs and aligns with our own core-beliefs.

The company aims to be the largest installer of domestic renewable technology by 2025 with a turnover of £100million.

“Unlike conventional heating syste ms, heat pumps require extensive design, installation and commissioning capabilities coupled with a supportive, customer-driven mentality. Our full-system approach links the many different renewable systems into one bespoke solution, thereby ensuring a streamlined, efficient process to deliver the perfect outcome and a best-in-class customer experience”.

Managing director of Green Building Renewables, Chris Delaney said, "Our tenth acquisition and surpassing the £40million turnover mark is a

Doré Woodman serves residential clients in Kent, Surrey and Sussex and specialises in heat pump installations. The business has focused on self-

builders, SME developers and retrofit installations of heat pumps, solar PV, battery storage, MVHR and underfloor heating and aligns perfectly with Green Building Renewables' model, which is built on providing regional expertise and cutting-edge technology, which is only installed by local in-house engineers. Green Building Renewables recently appointed Chris Joubert as its new merger and acquisition director to lead further growth of Green Building Renewables through the strategic acquisition of reputable renewable installation companies across England. Chris said, "Doré Woodman is the perfect example of the calibre of company that we want to join Green Building Renewables and to help expand its network. While I can't take responsibility for bringing this acquisition on board, it is a perfect blueprint for the type of business I will be looking for and aiming to get into the company's nationwide network. "I am looking forward to working alongside Chris and the team at Green Building Renewables to help reach its ambitions of becoming the largest domestic renewables installer in England and to reach its £100million turnover." Green Building Renewable's network already includes regional offices in York (x2), Doncaster, Scarborough, Newcastle, Daventry, Wellingborough, Colchester, Oxford, Nottingham, Norwich, Cambridge, and Chichester. The company also partnered this year with Australian Company Smart Ease to bring Commercial Payment Plan solutions to market for businesses. The payment plans offer flexible funding to companies to secure smart and energy-efficient equipment for their organisation. TopicUK December 2023

Law firm expands its Commercial Dispute Resolution team

Blacks Solicitors has taken a significant step forward in growing its Commercial Dispute Resolution (CDR) team with the appointment of three new Solicitors,Alannah Crux,Victoria Tynan and Christopher Connell, along with Chartered Legal Executive,Michelle Eyre,as part of the Firm’s latest intake.This brings the total number of team members in the CDR team to 24. Alannah Crux has joined the Holiday & Home Parks team in order to bolster their expertise and help to maintain its position as a specialist in the marketplace. Christopher Connell has a particular interest in litigation, including the dynamic realms of cryptocurrency, non-fungible tokens and litigation arising out of the use and abuse of AI. Given significant advances in technology and digital currency, this has become a key area for growth for the CDR team at Blacks, which is keen to remain at the forefront of legal innovation and adaptability. Commenting on his appointment, Christopher said; “Blacks Solicitors is well known for offering a wide

range of services and specialisms to its clients. Blacks also has a strong reputation in the market and a great workplace culture. It felt like an obvious next step for me to join the firm. Michelle Eyre, brings her expertise to the Real Estate Litigation team, specialising in a broad spectrum of comme rcial landlord and tenant matters. Victoria Tynan will support Ian Scobbie in the Insolvency team to skilfully navigate a diverse array of claims. Her expertise will add to Blacks Solicitors’ comprehensive approach to handling intricate legal challenges in the realm of insolvency

Luke Patel, partner and head of commercial dispute resolution, commented: “Our CDR team has gone from strength to strength since its inception in 2000. The demand for litigation and support services continues to increase f ro m bo t h n e w a n d exi st i n g clients due to a host of factors, including continued economic uncertainty, political factors and our reputation in the market. “Our team offers a host of specialist services, working collaboratively in close partnership with other teams from across the Firm to deliver a highquality, integrated service, which is something we’re hugely proud of. We’re all excited and looking forward to Alannah, Victoria, Christopher and Michelle settling into the CDR team and the Firm. I am confident that their combined expertise and contribution will have a positive impact on our client offering and further strengthen our cross-team working in line with our Vision.”

Demand for finance professionals fuelsrecord year for Leeds recruitment consultancy S t ro n g d e m a n d fo r f i n a n c e p ro fe s s i o n a l s h a s fuelled a record year for Leeds-based recruitment consultancy Headstar. The company, who recruits all areas of a finance team from entry level to CFO in addition to providing parttime FD services, saw a 33% growth in turnover for the 12 months to the end of 2023, rising from £2.26m in 2022 to £3m last year – the highest in the company’s history.

team of recruitment experts and consultant finance directors, making nine appointments.

Over the course of 2023, Headstar placed a record 260 candidates in finance roles across the UK, and added an additional 62 clients, including large corporates such as Whitby Seafoods, MRC Global, Weir Minerals and the Institute of Directors.

Commenting on the company’s record performance, James Roach, managing director said: “While each of our three specialist recruitment and finance consultancy divisions has performed well, we’ve seen a particularly strong increase in demand for our permanent and executive search services over 2023, as large and medium sized businesses have looked to strengthen their finance teams with senior-level hires.

In order to keep up with growing demand for its services, Headstar e x p a n d e d i t s o w n 2 6 - s t ro n g

“The challenging backdrop, combined with a greater awareness of our unique offering, has also

driven strong demand for our finance consultancy services, with our team of finance directors supporting more businesses than ever on turnaround and transformation projects.” H e a d s t a r, o r i g i n a l l y k n o w n as FD Yorkshire Limited, was established 37 years ago and has grown significantly in recent years, expanding its client and contractor base which consists of a range of SMEs, as well as larger corporates including Next, RSM, NG Bailey and British Garden Centres. Alongside placing permanent and interim finance staff, Headstar also provides a range of consultancy services, designed and delivered by experienced finance directors, including turnaround support and part-time finance directors. TopicUK December 2023

Bramall Group appoints board director

Harrogate based property and investment company Bramal l Proper ties Limited has announced the appoint ment of Jonathan Duck to its Board as property director. Having already spent nine years with Bramall Group, Jonathan joins the Board alongside founder and chairman Tony Bramall, managing director Miles Chilton, and company secretary Alison Lockwood. Jonathan is a highly experienced commercial property professional with over 35 years of industry experience. He previously worked with the estates team at British Rail Property Board before joining Sanderson Weatherall where he spent 27 years. Jonathan will take a more strategic role in managing the property portfolio. He will specifically lead the company’s real estate management and asset management programme

across sectors including industrial, retail, leisure, office and automotive. Tony Bramall, said, “We are delighted to welcome Jonathan to our Board of directors. Over the last nine years he has made a considerable contribution to become a valued team member and a real asset to the business. “Jonathan will be instrumental in helping us to realise maximum value for our portfolio of property assets and future acquisitions programme. Indeed, we are seeking opportunities to invest in new properties and development projects including private and public securities through our Guernsey Investments finance third party property development fund.”

Bramall Group owns a diverse £300 million portfolio of commercial real estate, arable land, forestry, property developments and financial securities. The group is family-owned and is led by Tony Bramall. Over the last six decades Mr Bramall has built and exited two successful public companies while overseeing the growth of the Group and funding a charitable trust which has supported a variety of good causes for the last 30 years. The Bramall Group managed estate portfolio includes the 568,297 sq ft Hedon Road industrial estate in Hull, the 90,000 sq ft St James Retail Park in Knaresborough and 5/7 Lands Lane in Leeds. Tenants for other investments include M&S in Harrogate, Mercedes Benz in Leeds, Bradford and Huddersfield, Premier Inn Hotel in Halifax and Hull, and Bettys and Taylors Group in Knaresborough.

LIGHTS CAMERA ACTION A UNIQUE TEAM BUILDING EXPERIENCE With the support of screen professionals, you’ll work together to create and star in your own film!

Facilitated by Dr Charlotte Armitage, Psychologist of Big Brother

DEVELOP YOUR TEAM SKILLS IN Communication Problem Solving Adaptability Decision Making Trust Planning

WHAT’S INCLUDED

FULL DAY EVENT | LUNCH | UP TO 20 STAFF | ACCESSIBLE LEEDS VENUE | PROFESSIONALLY EDITED FILM

GET IN TOUCH AT INFO@YAFTA.CO.UK FOR FURTHER DETAILS OR VISIT WWW.YAFTA.ORG/TEAMBUILDING WE HAVE WORKED WITH TopicUK December 2023

“D uring 2023, the number of deals rose slightly from the previous year to 127 completed, 17 per cent above the five-year annual average. “With above average levels of take-up in 2023, de mand for best-quality space was strong, accounting for 74 per cent of annual take-up,” said Eamon. Occupier demand in 2023 was underpinned by the Finance, B a n k i n g a n d In s u r a n c e , a n d Professional Services sectors, accounting for 30 per cent and 28 per cent of total takeup respectively.

Leeds office rents now breaking all records The prime rent for Grade A off ice space in Leeds has now risen to £38 per sq ft, breaking all records, according to global property consultancy Knight Frank. In Knight Frank’s brand-new UK Cities report, it is revealed that city centre rents have increased by six per cent over the past 12 months. Notably, prime office rents have risen by 19 per cent since the onset of the Covid pandemic, the second largest increase seen across the Big Six regional cities. Eamon Fox, partner and head of development at the Leeds office of Knight Frank, explained: “With strong occupie r de mand and supply-squeezed market, forecasts

indicate that prime rents will reach £40.00 per sq ft by the Q2 of 2024. “We have several transactions agreed and progressing through legals at £39 psf, with £40 psf being the next milestone. The market is such that transactions are no longer rent sensitive, but amenity and quality is scrutinised more than ever by our occupier customers. When we get this right, we see growth in rents”. “Leeds experienced strong occupier demand in 2023, with the city registering the highest level of annual take-up since 2019. Total take-up during the year was at 651,461 sq ft, 10 per cent above the 5-year annual average and a nine per cent yearon-year increase.

The largest letting of the year was to Lloyds Banking Group, who took 124,400 sq ft of grade A space at 11 & 12 Wellington Place in Q1. This was the largest occupier deal to be completed across all of the major UK regional cities last year. The availability of Grade A space stood at 176,286 sq ft at 2023 year-end, 66 per cent less than the previous year and 34 per cent below the 10-year average for Leeds. The level of grade A supply at the end of 2023 is the lowest since 2019, illustrating the ongoing supply squeeze in the office market.The largest investment transaction was the sale of the BT Building, One Sovereign Square to Citi Private Bank for £38.5m. The building also has 12 years unexpired on the lease, let to its namesake, BT Group. Overseas investors accounted for the greatest share of annual investment turnover, at 56 per cent, owing largely to the above deal, and with capital coming from both the Middle East and South Africa.

Yorkshire garden centre group appoints from within A Bradford headquartered garden centre group has created a new group role in the plants department of its growing business.

Marc Salama from Yorkshire Garden Centres

The Yorkshire Garden Centre group (YGC) has created a new commercial plant manager position across its sites at Tong, Tingley, Otley and Bingley. Marc Salama started his career at YGC when he was appointed outdoor manager at Tong Garden Centre in 2022 before a promotion to centre manager

when YGC acquired the former Stephen H Smith's site at Harden, Bingley. His latest role is designed to streamline plant buying throughout YGC to secure economies of scale to benefit the consumer. "I'm looking forward to the diversity of the role. I'll be visiting growers and

building relationships with suppliers to source plant ranges that will inspire our customers to create great gardens and outdoor spaces at home. I will then work with the teams at each centre to communicate our unique proposition, including seasonal special offers, plants of the month, hints and tips and loyalty card offers," said Marc. Commercial drector, Sharon McNair said: "We've been inspired by Marc's plant expertise and creativity since he joined YGC in 2022. We're excited about his plans to source plants directly from our network of nurseries and to work with the marketing team and colleagues at each of the centres and to communicate his vision to our customers."

TopicUK December 2023

Championing Women's Causes The awarding winning charitable grantmaker, Community Foundation for Calderdale (CFFC), are at the forefront of societal change in West Yorkshire. They are making remarkable strides in the voluntary sector, particularly in empowering women. By supporting women-focused causes, CFFC is playing a pivotal role in shaping a more equitable community. CFFC's dedication to women's issues is evident in its diverse range of projects. From supporting shelters for women affected by domestic abuse to funding programmes for female mental health and well-being, the Foundation’s impact is profound and far-reaching. The CEO of CFFC Steve Duncan DL stated, “These initiatives are more than just grant funded projects. They represent our commitment to

The Foundation's role in nurturing women-led voluntary organisations i s p a r t i c u l a r l y n o t e w o r t h y. Grants have enabled these groups to flourish. Whether it's through advocacy, education, or direct support services, these organisations are making a tangible difference. CFFC's achievements in the voluntary sector are a beacon of hope and inspiration.

On the left is Sajida Kauser, Group Scout Leader at 51st Pellon Scout Group, on the right is Safoora Masood, a parent who also has a local baking business called Saf Sprinkles. The event was the Annual Awards Ceremony to celebrate the achievements of the year.

creating safe, supportive spaces where women's voices are heard, and their needs addressed”.

Their work, funded through the generosity of businesses and individual donations (www.cffc.co.uk), is helping to build a robust network of support that uplifts and empowers women across Calderdale.

Enjoy a day out at Yorkshire Sculpture Park Yorkshire Post Tourist Attraction of The Year 2023

Plan your visit ysp.org.uk

www.chadwicklawrence.co.uk

For You.

For Business.

Dispute Resolution

Employee Services

Corporate & Contracts

Corporate Recovery & Insolvency

Medical Negligence

Personal Injury

Litigation in Business

Property

Family Law

Home & Property

Employer Services

Intellectual Property

Criminal Law

Wills & Probate

Regulatory Services

Sports Law

For Yorkshire. T 0800 015 0340

E info@chadlaw.co.uk

W chadwicklawrence.co.uk TopicUK December 2023

The financial remedies transparency pilot scheme

In a recent decision by Sir Andrew McFarlane following the 2021 ‘Transparency in the Family Court’ review, a new transparency pilot scheme will begin on 29th January 2024 which will allow the media to report on financial remedy proceedings within the Financial Remedies Court (FRC). The FRC reporting pilot will only cover a limited number of courts, namely; the Central Family Court in London, Birmingham and Leeds. As part of the pilot, these courts will now open their previously

closed doors to journalists and legal bloggers to allow them to report on financial remedy proceedings. Journalists will be able to attend both in person and remote hearings and should give advance notice of their intention to attend.

The intention behind opening up the financial remedy process to the media, is that it will benefit the general public in understanding the process, when in the past most couples go into the situation relatively blind, with very little understanding of what is expected from them. The new pilot may make the process easier for anyone with anxiety going into it. It will also allow greater public scrutiny of the process itself, which will

ensure it remains fair to everyone. Judgements that are currently published are cases from the High Court, which are usually cases that are not representations of a typical family’s finances. More judgements being published and reported on will allow for more consistent rulings across similar cases. It could also discourage people from hiding assets if proceedings are open to being reported on. This would be particularly beneficial in cases where one party owns a business, when it isn’t always clear to the other party what their real financial situation may be. The possibility of proceedings being reported on could put to rest those worries, as there is incentive to give

proper full and frank disclosure to avoid any negative media attention being drawn towards the business. Not all hearings within the process will be open to journalists, Financial Dispute Resolution hearings (FDRs) will not be included in the scheme, to protect the confidentiality of a settlement negotiation before the judge. These shall continue to be without prejudice settlements, which under the rules of court still cannot be attended by media or referred to publicly. Out of court settlements by way of a Consent Order will also remain private. The change may also encourage more people to use alternatives to the court system, such as mediation or arbitration.

Chadwick Lawrence Renews Sports Law Partnership With Bradford Bulls Chadwick Lawrence, Yorkshirebased law firm, is thrilled to announce the extension of its sports law sponsorship agreement with the Bradford Bulls, marking the continuation of a highly successful three-year collaboration.

Nils O’D onoghue, partne r at Chadwick Lawrence says “We are delighted to embark on another exciting journey with the Bradford

Journalist may also be given sight of court documents, such as the ‘ES1’ (a document that gives an overview of the case) and position statements. Journalists will not be allowed publish many details of the proceedings, when a reporter attends a financial remedy hearing, the Court will consider making a ‘Transparency Order’ including any restrictions on what they can publish from the case. Both parties must be prepared to address the Court on whether a Transparency Order is appropriate. For advice about how this might affect your family case please contact our specialist team on 0800 015 0340 or family@chadlaw.co.uk Bulls for the upcoming 2024 season, as we renew our valued partnership. Serving as the official legal partner for this club is a source of great pride for our firm. Over the years, we have formed great relationships and collaborated on meaningful charitable endeavours, and we look forward to continuing this positive trajectory in the coming year”

This renewed partnership signifies a deepening of the relationship between the firm and the professional rugby league club. Chadwick Lawrence will once again proudly showcase their branding on the right sleeve of the Bradford Bulls' 2024 playing jerseys. Serving as the official legal sponsor of the team, the firm also provides legal expertise to the team and often attends home games. TopicUK December 2023

A Yorkshire solicitor has become one of the first in the country to qualify after studying under a new route designed to help candidates from non-traditional legal backgrounds get into law. Brittany Clark, a solicitor at law firm, Holden Smith, has qualified after two years studying the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE). During her studies at The University of Law, Brittany also worked at Holden Smith to prepare for the two-stage SQE assessment while bolstering and developing her skills working in legal practice. She said: “I’m delighted to be one of the first in the UK to qualify as a solicitor via this new route. “The SQE has revolutionised the way in which solicitors can train, promoting social mobility and diversity in the legal profession, and opening the doors of a career in law to people who may not have considered it, or thought it was out of reach. “Qualifying via this route meant I was able to gain valuable, on-thejob experience and learn from my colleagues at Holden Smith, while also earning a salary from day one.” James Smith, co-founder and director at Holden Smith, said: “Until recently, the route into a career in law has been very prescriptive, but things have moved on. At Holden Smith, we welcomed the introduction of the SQE, because being able to recruit solicitors from a diverse talent pool is key to the future of our practice.” Matthew Tomlinson, dean at the University of Law, said: “Brittany

Former University of Law Student one of first to qualify studied her LLB with the University and was a stellar student who graduated with a 1st class degree. The rigidity of the old qualification regime meant that students like Brittany had to undertake another year of postgraduate study before entering a very competitive market in search of a training opportunity. The pressure of financing a further year of study stood as a significant barrier. The opportunity to study and train at the same time as an apprentice means that students like Brittany can access the profession through a different pathway.”

Holden Smith , which employs over 100 people across four off ices, was fo u n d e d i n 2 0 1 9 b y directors James Smith and David Bancroft.

The SQE has revolutionised the way in which solicitors can train, promoting social mobility and diversity...

N E W S U P D AT E

•

Business Structures & Reorganisations

•

Commercial Debt Collection

•

Business Structures •• Commercial Disputes& Reorganisations CommercialProperty Debt Collection •• Commercial Commercial Disputes •• Contracts Commercial Property •• Employment Contracts Property •• Intellectual EmploymentTrade & Transactions •• International Intellectual Property •• Internet Trading International Trade & Transactions •• Mediation of Business Disputes Internet Trading •• Mergers, Acquisitions and Disposals

Accident Claims

Child Care • Accident Claims • Collaborative Law • Child Care • Dispute Resolution CollaborativeProblems Law •• Employment Dispute Resolution •• Matrimonial & Family • Employment Problems • Medical Negligence Claims Matrimonial & Family •• Planning for Retirement Medical Negligence •• Residential Property Claims Planning forCases Retirement •• Road Traffic

•

Planning & Licensing

Residential Property •• The Law & The Elderley RoadTrusts Traffic&Cases •• Wills, Probate • The Law & The Elderley

•

Starting In Business

•

Mediation of Business Disputes •• Planning & Licensing Mergers, and Disposals •• Starting In Acquisitions Business

Wills, Trusts & Probate

TopicUK December 2023

Asma

Yorkshire Businesswoman editor Gill Laidler caught up recently with Asma Iqbal, partner at Chadwick Lawrence, based in Leeds, who shared with us details of her career. All images: Thanks to Roth Read Photography

My parents came to the UK in the early 70s from Karachi in Pakistan with very little and started to build their life in Bradford, West Yorkshire. My dad worked as weaver in the manufacturing industry for many years, up until his retirement. My mum never worked and did not speak English. I was often the translator for my mum in situations where she needed assistance. From a very early age, I recognised how important it was to be able to communicate in an articulate manner. My love of the English language stemmed from this necessity of helping my mum to communicate and encouraged me to enter debating competitions at school, every time I was successful in putting my point across eloquently, it encouraged me to challenge myself further. Without realising, I had in fact paved my way into a career in law through this passion of winning balanced arguments in an articulate manner.

options closer to home, where I could commute on a daily basis. I enrolled to study the LLB Law at the University of Huddersfield.

Being one of seven children and the eldest daughter coming from an Orthodox Pathan Muslim family, post 16 education for females was rare, however, I persuaded my parents to allow me to further my education, given that I was in a Roman Catholic single sex school and chances of me deviating or even meeting the opposite sex were non-existent. Having secured good grades at A ‘Level, I began to realise that my ability to persuade my parents to let me study away from home was not a possibility. I had decided that I was going to study law and given that I had my goal in mind, I looked for

I often felt isolated and struggled to find my sense of belonging in an environment which had no one I could relate to, as no one in this area of law...

Where many other young people my age would be planning an adventure during the time they were applying to study at university, I was fending off pressure from members of the community and my extended family, who were trying to persuade my parents that they were making a huge mistake by allowing me to further my education. Furthermore, I had numerous suitors for marriage (turning up at home), given that it was “the norm” that girls my age, following their education,

would be married rather than proceed to higher education. Luckily for me, I had the support of my parents, who despite this pressure believed in me and my potential. Studying law at university was a defining moment for

me, as I was aware that many other (Muslim) girls would be looking up to me, including my own younger sisters. I was determined to prove that going to study at university did not mean that you would be compromising on your morals and ethics. I had my goal in sight. After completing my degree and the Legal Practice Course, the next hurdle was securing a training contract. After sending 100+ applications, it dawned on me that my name and/or gender, perhaps both together, were not even getting me an acknowledgment, let alone an interview. I therefore decided to change tactics. I applied for voluntary work experience. It was costing the organisation nothing except for their time to give me a chance and offer me some training. This strategy worked for me. The two organisations that I worked for both offered me a training contract. Eventually, I opted for the private practice and spent my training contract years and a further year with Ralph C Yablon Solicitors in Bradford, before being head hunted to work in Leeds for a commercial practice, specialising in insolvency. Working as an insolvency lawyer, at Brooke North Solicitors, presented both challenges and opportunities. I was entering a male dominated area of law, which was associated with a drinking culture for networking. I often felt isolated and struggled to find my sense of belonging in an environment which had no one I could relate to, as no one in this area of law and this area

of specialism looked like me. However, giving up was just not an option. I had defied the odds to get to where I was and I just was not prepared to walk away. The Senior Partner at Brooke North became my mentor. He not only taught me everything I needed to know in insolvency, he helped me through the insecurity I was feeling. He instilled in me that remaining true to myself and being my authentic self was more important than trying to be someone I wasn’t, just to fit in. Steven Frieze understood that my faith, religion and culture were integral to my values and these values made me who I was, so to compromise on any of this would have made me lose my identity.

During my maternity leave, I received an offer to become Chair of the R3 Ladies Business Recovery in Yorkshire. I hesitated initially as to whether I should take this role, but again, as with everything in my life, I accepted the challenge and held this post for three years, which became pivotal in building my personal profile in insolvency. After five years with Brooke North and reaching the position of an Associate in Insolvency, I was ready for the next step up in my career to partnership. I left Brooke North and joined Chadwick Lawrence in or around 2007 and helped to set up an Insolvency Department with Kate Roberts. We were an all-female team in insolvency and the department

grew from strength to strength in six months of me joining, which ultimately led to an offer from Chadwick Lawrence to become an equity share partner with them. I became a Partner at the age of 30, fulfilling another goal and was the only female Partner of colour in the firm. Influence Since becoming an equity partner, as a Muslim woman in an area of law which still lacked representation and diversity, I felt I had to be the change I wanted to see. To do this, I had to earn a “seat at the table”, where I could influence change and policy. This resulted in me joining a number of Boards. The most significant of these has been to become the Diversity and

Inclusion Champion for Insolvency Service UK, a BAME Committee Member of the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, a private sector Inclusivity Champion of West Yorkshire Combined Authority, which led to being a LEP Board Member and now more recently, the Deputy Business Advisor to the Mayor of West Yorkshire. As part of my role, I was asked to look at the ethnic minority business and EDI input in the West Yorkshire Economic Strategy for the West Yorkshire Plan. I feel that I am now in a position to make a difference by offering guidance, encouragement and mentoring to young women who may be struggling to find their identity in the legal sector. I have spoken at a number of Schools, Colleges, Universities, about my journey, in the hope that it brings inspiration to those women that may doubt themselves

during their journey. I recently spoke at an event hosted by Manchester Metropolitan University and received a testimonial from a student which confirmed that I was most definitely living my purpose: “I had the invaluable opportunity as a student at Manchester

Metropolitan University to host a “Telling Stories”Event with our guest speaker, Asma Iqbal. Having Asma, share her career journey for the students at my university, served as inspiration for all, aspiring legal professionals. Asma not only shared her incredible achievements throughout her career but shed light on the challenges she faced along the way. She highlighted to students the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. Many students, including myself, are at the stage of our career journey where we are applying for work experience and navigating the best pathway for our chosen careers. Asma supported us with the best tips and advice for entering the profession. Importantly, as we are aspiring to enter highly competitive industries, Asma provided us with advice on what will make us “stand out above the crowd”. It is clear, Asma has achieved success with her career, but her impact extends past her position as a Partner at Chadwick Lawrence and to the legacy of empowerment and guidance she is providing the students as we start our career journeys”. [Elle-Sue Calderbank, 3rd year Law Undergraduate Student at Manchester Metropolitan University, 23rd November 2023]. TopicUK December 2023

of my case was considered to be a watershed moment, at which point a number of organisations re-visited their internal policies on EDI and reached out to me for assistance in this regard, to help their EDI journey. I created a Diversity Test, which helped me work with organisations in assessing their EDI needs and I can make recommendations for change in an inclusive and collaborative manner . Please do get in touch if you feel I can assist your organisation in your EDI journey Asmaiqbal@chadlaw.co.uk

Fact File

Husband Asud Iqbal We met at university, he is an Accountant and in July 2024 we will have been married 25 years. Children We have two daughters, Alisha (23) and Arooj (17). Car I drive an electric Porsche Taycan.

In September 2020, I reached out to assist Azeem Rafiq, an ex-professional cricketer in his investigation into allegations of Institutional Racism, bullying and harassment against his employer, the Yorkshire County Cricket Club. The case gathered a real public interest, where the independent investigation and subsequently, the employment tribunal action that we brought, received widespread Media coverage and even made the Government take note. In 2021, Sajid Javid tweeted “heads should roll” and stated that “the P-word was never banter”. There was a finding that my client had been the victim of Institutional Racism and we were able to secure both an apology and a financial settlement. More importantly, my client was able to testify in Parliament before the DCMS Committee, shining

a powerful spotlight on the issue of Institutional Racism. Accolades The outcome of the case made everyone look at their EDI policies a nd p ra ct i ce s. T he En g l a n d and Wales Cricket Board announced a 12-point plan to tackle racism and promote diversity, including setting up an Anti-Discrimination Unit and addressing all of the complaints in an independent whistleblowing system. The outcome of this case marked a turning point in my career, as many people and organisations reached out to me and were interested to learn about my journey into law and my fight for justice on grounds of gender and race equality. As a result of the outcome of my case, I won a number of awards and accolades. The outcome

What do you to in your leisure time? I listen to music whilst cooking. I have a love of cooking South Asian dishes. Many of the recipes that I have learnt from my mum. What is your favourite holiday destination? Dubai. As when I need, I feel to reflect on life, I regularly travel to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, to perform a pilgrimage – this keeps me grounded and humble. What is your favourite place in Yorkshire? Howarth – being the home of the Bronte Sisters and having studied English language and English literature, it was one of the first places I visited during my A’ Level English literature course. What is your favourite gadget? Having recently invested in a SAGE Barista coffee machine, the coffee grinder and inbuilt milk frother is my most favourite gadget. What couldn’t you live without? My family.

Yorkshire Dales gastro-inn reopens after £600,000 renovation creating 15 jobs A 300-year old, listed pub in Nor th Yorkshire has reopened this month after a t wo -y ear renovation programme by a Yorkshirebased hospitality group, bucking the current trend of pub closures in the UK.

Following a painstaking £600,000 restoration process that involved the complete refurbishment of the 18th century building, including the replacement of its stone-tiled roof, the pub has now reopened, with a 48-seat restaurant serving dishes that use locally sourced ingredients, cooked in wood-fired ovens.

The Green Tree Inn, near Bedale, has been brought back to life by Leedsbased luxury pubs group Crazy Rabbit Inns, and will create 15 full and part time jobs. The gastro-inn with 48 covers, and four guest rooms that are due to open in Spring 2024, will be the group’s second hospitality venue.

Collette said: “To say we have restored this old pub to its former glory would be an understatement. We have stripped this Grade II-listed, and very dilapidated building back to its bare bones and reimagined it as a perfect, cosy Dales pub, with superb food.”

The company was founded by Yorkshire entrepreneur Collette Sunderland who bought the Green Tree Inn in 2021 after it had been closed for several years and fallen into disrepair.

She added: “Local residents have been following our progress closely, and we’re excited to welcome them back. We have also been receiving enquiries about accommodating

local shooting parties, as well as from visiting parents of students who are boarding at the nearby Aysgarth prep school. Our guests can expect roaring fires, fabulous food and a warm welcome from our great team of local staff.” The Green Tree restaurant only uses locally-sourced seasonal produce and the pub serves ales from local breweries including Wensleydale, Theakston and Black Sheep. Specially commissioned works by Yorkshire artists are hung throughout the bar and restaurant. Crazy Rabbit Inns was founded by Collette in 2021. She acquired an interest in the Blue Lion Hotel at East Witton in 2022 and is undertaking an investment programme to update its rooms and modernise its kitchens. TopicUK December 2023

MBO completed at industrial Why NOW is thewith bestFinance time to doors specialist submit your Tax Return Yorkshire investment of the new business. Between them, Gary and Mark have more than 30 years’ experience in the industrial door sector. Gary, who was originally employed by Mark’s father 15 years ago as an apprentice engineer, said: “The buyout enables us to support our growth plans for Interdoor and together with our unrivalled customer service and technical knowledge will help us in our ambition to become one of the largest national industrial door maintenance providers in the UK.”

A management buyout (MBO) has been completed at a leading industrial door company supported by an investment from Finance Yorkshire. Interdoor, based in Hull, supplies and maintains specialist industrial doors throughout the whole of the UK to a range of sectors including retail, food processing, aviation, automotive and film and television.

Interdoor is an impressive company with a strong track record in the supply and Established in 2017, when Mark Roberts maintenance of innovative industrial doors to a incorporated the company and acquired the industrial door business from a range of sectors... member of his family’s group of companies, which itself had traded for more than 40 years, the company has grown substantially over the last six years.

It has built a solid reputation as one of the leading industrial door maintenance providers in the UK offering some of the most competitive rates on the market, unrivalled technical knowledge and rapid emergency response times. Interdoor is also known for supplying

and installing some of the most specialist industrial doors including large aircraft hangar doors, high speed doors, large acoustic doors for film and television studios and freezer and cold storage doors for the food industry. The MBO was led by the company’s operations director, Gary Toalster, with the support of managing director Mark Roberts who prior to the sale owned 100% of the company. He will remain as a shareholder and director

Mark said: “Finance Yorkshire was the first port of call to fund the transaction. We have worked with its fund managers previously who have proved to be trusted partners in working with us to help our business grow.” Alex McWhirter, chief executive of Finance Yorkshire, said: “Interdoor is an impressive company with a strong track record in the supply and maintenance of innovative industrial doors to a range of sectors. It has continued to grow even in the most challenging of trading conditions such as the COVID-19 pandemic. We are pleased to support the management team in the next chapter of the company’s growth strategy.” The deal was supported by a £1.3 million investment from Finance Yorkshire’s growth fund which is part of a wider regional business fund and which is expected to provide more than £50m to SMEs over five years. Investment is also available from its seedcorn and business loans funds.

Law firm marks second anniversary of employee ownership One of Yorkshire’s leading law firms has marked the s e co n d a n n i v e rs a r y o f becoming employee-owned by awarding all qualifying team members a £4,000 profit distribution. The firm also posted its most successful trading period ever for October last year, making 2023 its most successful and profitable year in its 46-year history. Ison Harrison became one of the first regional law firms to become a 100% employee-owned business in January 2022 after the three main shareholder directors agreed to sell the business to an Employee Ownership Trust. The firm, which employs more than 250 staff across the region, posted a record turnover of over £22 million last year, up 16% from £19 million in 2022, as well as achieving numerous other business milestones. The firm’s commercial division’s turnover increased from £1.35m to £2.7m, the legal aid team secured the prestigious Legal Aid CAPA contract helping double department turnover to more than £2.5m for the year, and the property division saw turnover increase to over £6m despite the volatile housing market.

The firm experienced a healthy level of growth in the number of new clients that it acted for with over 20,000 new clients instructing the firm throughout 2023. The firm has also once again achieved Lexcel accreditation, the approved legal industry quality mark for client care, compliance and practice management. 2023 saw the opening of the firm’s 18th office, in Doncaster, the firm’s second in South Yorkshire, with plans for further expansion across the region in the first quarter of 2024. The firm’s 19th office, located in Queensbury, Bradford is due to open as we published. As a result of the firm’s strong financial performance, individual profit distributions approved by Ison Harrison’s Board of Trustees saw all eligible employees receive a tax-free distribution of £4,000 each, an increase of £400 on the £3,600 payment last January. Managing director Jonathan Wearing, commented: “2023 was our second year operating as an employeeowned business and what a year we’ve had in terms of achievements and overall performance. Distributing an increased bonus to our employees

beyond year one’s payment reflects the drive and dedication shown by everyone throughout the year and is a true demonstration of the motivation that employee ownership can bring. Everyone contributed to delivering a record year for the firm last year which has put us in a great position to ensure that the coming year will be equally, if not more, successful and eventful. “The move to employee ownership has been hugely positive for the firm and it’s encouraging to see such investment in making the initiative so successful. As the firm continues to expand and underpin its significant presence across Yorkshire, the flexible structure that employee ownership provides offers the perfect platform for future growth, attracting fresh talent as well as providing stability for existing staff. “Switching to employee ownership has had a big impact on the way we do business and how we engage with our staff which in turn has boosted financial performance. The switch has been a resoundingly positive move for every single employee of the firm. Everyone now has a tangible stake in the success of the business and can share in future success and profits, just as they did last year.”.

Double award win in sustainability for Harrison Spinks National trade body the British Furniture Manufacturers Nick Booth, managing director said: (BFM), announced Harrison Spinks as winner of the “We’re delighted to have won these Sustainability category in the Future of Furniture Awards, awards. held at the January Furniture Show. Group sustainability manager at Harrison Spinks, Emma Linney-Taylor was also named as Sustainability Champion by the BFM.

environmental impact and conserve resources, while improving product performance, has led to a number of innovations.

Based in Leeds, the business mixes home-gro wn, state-of-the-art technology with a team of skilled artisans using traditional techniques to produce luxury handcrafted beds and mattresses.

These have included the use of natural fillings grown at the company’s farms near Tadcaster, reducing chemical use by weaving mattress fabrics in-house, introducing digitalisation to reduce energy consumption and shifting from offshore carbon offsetting to environmental restoration.

The company’s drive to source raw materials more responsibly, reduce

“Sustainability is an increasingly important subject, especially in the mattress and bed industry, where thousands of mattresses are sent to landfill every day. Making mattresses in the most sustainable way has been a priority for us for a number of years now. “With Emma’s tremendous support, sustainability is firmly embedded across everything we do. Her passion, commitment and knowledge have helped deliver, and in many areas exceed, our sustainability goals.

“We're very proud of the fact that we've won these two awards. We work extre mely hard to make the most responsible beds possible, and that's why we weave our own mattress fabrics, we grow our own natural fibres at our own farm and make our own awardwinning springs.” The BFM Future of Furniture Awards for Excellence in Sustainability and Sustainability Champion recognise exemplary

work by BFM members in moving towards a more sustainable future. A panel of judges considered a number of criteria for the award, including evidence of a commitment to continuous improvement in sustainability, an action plan for the next three to five years and a willingness to lead and empower others. BFM managing director, Phil Spademan said: “Our Future

of Furniture Awards celebrate the members that are investing not only in the future of their businesses, but in our industry and our communities. “I’d like to congratulate the team at Harrison Spinks and Emma for the outstanding work that is recognised with these awards.” Left to right – Harrison Spinks’ Ian Owen left, BFM Chairman Nick Garratt centre, presents the Future of Furniture Excellence in ESG Reporting, Harrison Spinks’ Logan Palmer right.

Yorkshire-based textile manufacturer marks half a century in business Yorkshire-based manufacturer of environmental textiles, Camira is celebrating 50 years since the business was founded under the name Camborne Fabrics. Headquartered in Mirfield and established in 1974 in Huddersfield, the northern textile heartland of the UK, Camira now operates worldwide, producing more than eight million metres of fabric per year, with an annual turnover of more than £85 million. Commenting on the anniversary, CEO Alan Williams said: “Our success has been built on producing high quality, environmentally innovative fabrics, whilst providing excellent customer service and global logistics.”

75 countries, with six sites in the UK and one in Lithuania, as well as offices in Europe, North America, Australia and China.

The name Camira references the original company name Camborne, founded on Camborne Drive in Huddersfield, as well as pointing to a new ‘era’ as an independent company. Camira employs 650 people and products are sold in

Alan continued: “During our 50th year we’ll be celebrating this special moment in history through key collaborations, events and new product launches which all tie into a celebration of sustainability, people, pattern and colour.”

Highlights for Camira in the last 50 years include winning the Queen’s Award for International Trade, Innovation and Sustainable Development, launching the world’s first contract interior fabric using nettles, introducing revolutionary digital printing technology, Camira Print and investing in wool recycling technology, iinouiio in 2022, as well as supplying the fabric for the anointing screen at King Charles III coronation in 2023. TopicUK December 2023

Showroom Workstation catalyst for £340m economic boost during 30-year history Sheffield’s Showroom Workstation has supported SMEs to generate in excess of £340m in combined turnover during its 30-year history, analysis of tenant surveys has revealed. S h o w r o o m Wo r k s t a t i o n o n Paternoster Row, which is home to hundreds of creative, digital and cultural organisations, opened in 1993 as the city’s first collaborative hub supporting independent businesses.

Data from tenant surveys has also revealed details about its impact. For each decade that Showroom Workstation has been open, combined tenant turnover has doubled. In excess of 600 people are based on site in

an average year and more than 250 businesses have been housed there during its history to date. Added to this, businesses based in Showroom Workstation have created an average of 20 jobs annually - indicating the true scale of opportunity possible when SMEs are housed under one roof. Alongside providing office space, Showroom Workstation hosts more

than 1,100 conferences and events in a typical year, the majority of which are designed to bring the creative, digital and cultural sectors together. The hub is marking its 30th anniversary with an event on Friday 15 March, which will include a keynote speech from South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard and a panel discussion featuring notable business and cultural leaders. Ian Wild, CEO said: “Showroom Workstation has always and will always champion the importance of collaboration to bolster success of independent businesses. The fact that SMEs housed here over the years have been able to generate such a huge economic boost, creating thousands of jobs along the way, is a true testament to their individual and combined brilliance. “This building has been a hive of activity for 30 years, nurturing businesses through start-up and scaleup. Showroom Workstation is very much a place where creative, digital and cultural businesses can thrive and our role is to provide fantastic workspace in an environment centred round connecting individuals and businesses to further their work. This collaboration is so often the stimulus for exciting projects.” The space first reached full occupancy in 2000. Currently, 37% of tenants have been located in Showroom Workstation for ten years or more. The largest current tenant is Auxilion. Ian added: “Some tenants have even grown too large to remain on site and that indicates that this model works for early stage businesses looking to scale-up in an incubator-style environment. We’re proud of every former and current tenant - each undertake great work to put Sheffield

on the map and create opportunities for people working in the creative, cultural and digital sectors.” Showroom Workstation has been home to many notable creators and entrepreneurs who have founded businesses including multi BAFTAwinning Warp Films and technology firm Razor. Mark Herbert, founder and joint CEO of Warp Films, said: “We were proud to call the Showroom Workstation our home for many years. It was a place our business could grow and connect with like-minded

Showroom Workstation has provided a base for South Yorkshire’s creative and entrepreneurial talent, helping businesses to collaborate and connect, and to flourish... professionals and creatives, helping each other to thrive in our respective fields. We’ve since scaled up and moved to bigger premises in the city and it’s thanks to the opportunities that we were able to access in the early stages of our journey that we’re in the position we are now.” South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard said: “I’m delighted to celebrate 30 hugely successful years of the Showroom Workstation. Starting and scaling a business takes courage, determination and a bit of luck. But new and growing businesses do need a home and a network of support. Showroom Workstation has provided a base for South Yorkshire’s

creative and entrepreneurial talent, helping businesses to collaborate and connect, and to flourish. My job is growth and I’m delighted we have assets like South Yorkshire helping me to deliver that goal. Here's to another 30 years!” Looking at the history of the Showroom Workstation, the art deco building opened as Kennings car showroom in 1936, before closing its doors in the 1970s. Sheffield Council acquired the site in 1983, with work to convert it to a workspace completing in 1990. Charitable organisation Sheffield Media and Exhibition Centre (SMEC) was formed in 1991, in preparation for the building reopening to businesses and members of the public. The Workstation was opened to tenants in 1993, with around ten SMEs calling it home in year one. The Showroom Cinema soon followed, opening its doors in 1995. Showroom Workstation (SRWS) was then created. SRWS still operates under the SMEC charity to this day, with its objectives to galvanise the cultural and creative industries of Sheffield. To date, more than £1m has been donated to the Showroom Cinema from Showroom Workstation, to ensure money is put into the creative and cultural sectors. Looking at the future of Showroom Workstation, the organisation has just undergone a brand refresh to mark its anniversary. The organisation plans to continually restore the 1930s building and ensure it maintains a strong visual presence for people arriving in Sheffield. Showroom Workstation’s anniversary event, titled How culture, creative and digital thrives under one roof, will take place 12noon-1.30pm on Friday 15 March. TopicUK December 2023

Savills duo to head up northern rural professional department Savills has announced two new heads of its northern rural professional team. The six-strong team will be spearheaded by Sam Greaves and Jennifer Dixon who have over 17 years’ experience in the rural sector between them. York-based Sam joined Savills in 2014 after graduating from the University of Reading with a degree in Real Estate. He started his career in the firm’s estate management team, before joining the Rural Professional team in 2019. Sam is a member of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors and a fellow of the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers. He is one of a handful of surveyors who has passed the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) advance certificates in trust and estates. As an RICS Registered Valuer, Sam is an experienced valuer involved with the valuation of estates, farms, land and residential property. He also prepares reports for expert witness and dispute resolution proceedings.

Expertise Jennifer, qualified as a Chartered Rural Surveyor and RICS Registered Value r in 2014, has ove r nine years’ experience in all aspects of rural professional work. She was brought up on a mixed livestock and arable farm in northern Cumbria, where she maintains an active role. She obtained an undergraduate degree in Geology at the University of Edinburgh,

followed by a Masters from the Royal Agricultural University. The newly formed team has expertise, experience and a geographical spread spanning the north of England. Based across the Savills York, Newcastle and Carlisle offices, the team will be made up

Spanning large parts of the north of England, the team is well equipped to provide expert advice f o r b o t h r u ra l a n d residential properties... of Anna Thompson, Laura Oxtoby, Clara Levitt and Dan Matthews, in addition to Jennifer and Sam. Laura and Clara qualified as Fellows of the Central Association of Valuers (CAAV) in December 2023, with Laura achieving the second highest exam result in the country. Collectively, the team will provide expert advice for rural and residential properties on valuation matters, landlord and tenant, litigation support, compulsory

purchase orders, expert witness and Agricultural Mortgage Corporation funding. They will cover all aspects of rural valuation and consultancy work across Cumbria, Lancashire, Northumberland, Durham and Yorkshire.

Experience David Goodson, head of the rural and projects division at Savills in the North of England, comments: “The formation of this new team comes at a time when landowners are likely to need more advice than ever before. With a growing business in the region, we are delighted that Jennifer and Sam are heading up the team. They bring valuable experience and knowledge of the north of England which will benefit both our team and our clients. “Spanning large parts of the north of England, the team is well equipped to p r o v i d e e x p e r t a d v i c e f o r both rural and residential properties, working closely with other teams within the business to ensure a fully rounded service for our clients where required. “ I w o u l d a l s o l i ke to e x te n d my congratulations to Clara and Laura on their recent CAAV exam success. They are assets to our team and their new qualifications cement their position in offering our clients the very best support and advice.”

TopicUK December 2023

Todmorden’s Frostholme Mill to be auctioned for redevelopment Frostholme Mill, a Victorian former cotton mill in the village of Cornholme near Todmorden is being auctioned as a development opportunity with a guide price of £350,000 Featuring in auctioneer Pugh’s next online property auction on 28 February, the substantial fourstorey mill building covers 129,000 sq ft and sits on a two-acre site. The mill was built in 1860 and at one time employed over 700 people in Cornholme. It was taken over by textiles giant Courtaulds, before becoming a furniture factory in the 1960s, until finally closing in 2011. Edward Feather of Pugh said: “This is an exciting development opportunity for the right investor. Subject to gaining the relevant planning consent, the historic p ro p e r t y c o u l d b e c o n v e r te d for a number of imaginative new uses, including residential accommodation and it has enormous potential.”

He added: “The mill is in a great location in a residential area very close to Todmorden, which is fast

becoming a hotspot for people who work in Manchester and Leeds and who are looking to move out of the city. They are drawn to the area by the fantastic Pennine scenery and competitive property prices and as a result the housing market is buoyant in the area”.

Caddick Group makes further community investment with Ebor Gardens initiative

Yorkshire-based property business Caddick Group has donated 10 trees to Ebor Gardens Primary School, located near its landmark SOYO site, in line with its wider social value ambitions. The trees were planted last week as part of the Group’s efforts to support local communities by creating sustainable public spaces throughout Yorkshire and beyond.

Group sustainability manager at Harrison Spinks, Emma LinneyTa y l o r w a s a l s o n a m e d a s Sustainability Champion by the BFM. Based in Leeds, the business mixes home-gro wn, state-of-the-art technology with a team of skilled artisans using traditional techniques to produce luxury handcrafted beds and mattresses. The company’s drive to source raw

from offshore carbon offsetting to environmental restoration. Nick Booth, managing director said: “We’re delighted to have won these awards.

materials more responsibly, reduce environmental impact and conserve resources, while improving product performance, has led to a number of innovations.

“With Emma’s tremendous support, sustainability is firmly embedded across everything we do. Her passion, commitment and knowledge have helped deliver, and in many areas exceed, our sustainability goals. TopicUK December 2023

Funding deal brings forward prominent listed building redevelopment A joint venture partnership between Asset Capital and Prescient Capital, has secured funding to enable the redevelopment of a pair of vacant landmark buildings opposite the Town Hall in Leeds city centre. Established senior debt facilitator BLG D evelopment Finance has commi t te d f un d s fo r t h e redevelopment of 26 Great George Street, the Grade II listed former Victoria Commercial & Family Hotel and adjacent Shenanigans pub which closed at the start of the pandemic. Built in 1865 The Victoria Hotel was a well-regarded ale house with 28 bedrooms situated above, whilst the latter Shenanigans pub occupied the former Masonic Hall and Central Tower. Last month Stirling Prescient secured full planning consent from Leeds City Council to redevelop the site into purposebuilt student accommodation

(PBSA) on the upper levels whilst retaining the ground floor pub and leisure provision.

We are delighted to partner with BLG to bring forward this important regeneration and conservation project... The team behind Kirkstall Brewery and Whitelock’s Ale House have pledged to restore the pub to its former glory, whilst the partnership will deliver 54 studio student bedrooms with modern facilities including a concierge, communal

lounges, a gym, bin store, TV room and laundry. The redevelopment involves partial demolition of the existing buildings with a rear extension rising four storeys. The impressive Victorian exterior façade will be sensitively re s to re d , p ro te c t i n g h e r i t a g e value, and enhancing aspects that contribute positively to the sites significant setting. Daniel Newett of Asset Capital, said, “We are delighted to partner with BLG to bring forward this important regeneration and conservation project. Our plans will help to preserve this historic pub for future generations to enjoy whilst also making best use of the wider plot for much needed new stude nt accommodation. The JV team is local to the area with considerable understanding and expertise in the long-term viability of commercial estate.

Cubo expands at Wellington Place Flexible off ice provider Cu b o h a s e x p a n d e d i t s offering at Wellington Place in Leeds after seeing high demand for space at the thriving business quarter. After achieving 100% occupancy 12 months after opening at the popular Leeds city centre development, Cubo has taken an additional 7,613 sq ft at 6 Wellington Place. Cubo offers private office spaces of different sizes, as well as hot desks and designated desks in its coworking space. It provides flexible memberships on short or long terms to smaller companies right up to larger corporates, meaning they can meet the needs of a variety of organisations. The expansion takes its total space at

the building to 27,423 sq ft, giving it greater flexibility to meet demand, welcome more businesses and offer additional space as required to existing occupiers. It currently hosts a range of businesses at 6 Wellington Place including global automotive technology provider Keyloop, multi-campus summer school Summer Boarding Courses and technology talent acquisition specialists SPG Resourcing. Chief executive of Cubo Marc Brough said: “Since opening at Wellington Place last year we have seen high demand resulting in this expansion. The Leeds office market is positive, and the expansion has given us the opportunity to welcome even more exciting businesses and entrepreneurial talent.

“This move to increase our footprint at Wellington Place is reflective of our wider growth as we continue to roll-out of the Cubo brand to major cities across the UK. “It reinforces our commitment to being based in the very best locations with excellent proximity to transport connections and like-minded organisations for the thriving businesses based in our co-working spaces.” Paul Pavia, commercial director a t M E P C, t h e d e v e l o p e r a n d asset manager behind Wellington Place, said: “Cubo has enjoyed great success since opening at Wellington Place and we are pleased the business has committed its future in Leeds with us. “The confide nce businesses have displayed by committing to workspace at Wellington Place demonstrates our belief that the office remains an absolutely key part of the economy and society. TopicUK December 2023

Barnsley is flying the Purple Flag once again Barnsley town centre has been awarded a coveted Purple Flag accreditation for the fifth consecutive year in recognition of its commitment to creating a dynamic, secure, and v i b ra n t e v e n i n g a n d night-time economy. The Purple Flag scheme aims to raise the standard while broadening the appeal of town and city centres between the hours of 5pm to 5am. This prestigious award highlights Barnsley's diverse and attractive entertainment, dining, and culture offer, all while ensuring the safety and wellbeing of residents and visitors in the evening and night-time economy. Key successes in Barnsley's submission include the historical Market and Glass Works developments, which have seen an impressive 22% increase in footfall in 2023, compared to the UK average of 3.3%. Judges were impressed with the com mitme n t a n d bu y - i n f o r Purple Flag by the town’s bars, restaurants and venues. Barnsley’s extensive events programme includes the Flavours Food Festival, which saw a 22% increase in footfall in 2023 compared to the previous year, and the return of the town’s Christmas Market. The Bright Nights festival, an evening event including an illuminated parade, light projection, and Christmas light switch-on saw a 27% increase in footfall compared to 2022. The continuous recognition of our town centre as a safe and vibrant place

has also been a contributing factor that helped us to receive two Council of the Year awards in 2023. Cllr Sir Steve Houghton CBE, Leader of Barnsley Council, said: "The Purple Flag accreditation is a testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone involved in making Barnsley's evening and night-time economy a success. “It showcases the effectiveness of our collaborative efforts and the commitment of our partners to create a town centre that is not only safe but also offers a diverse and vibrant experience for all. Barnsley truly is a welcoming, safe and inclusive place to visit, day or night." Securing a Purple Flag for the fifth consecutive year is a collaboration of many organisations and individuals. Annual training conducted with

Night-Time Economy staff, taxi and marshal services, night angels, the Ask for Angela safety scheme, and the development of Barnsley’s Violence Against Women and Girls agenda – all played a part in creating a safe and enjoyable town centre. The collaborative work between services and partners from both public and private sectors continues to be strong as we're all working toward a shared goal. The partnership includes Doyle Security, South Yorkshire Police, Barnsley Council licensing, Violence Reduction Unit, Barnsley Hospital, Trading Standards, Safer Neighbourhood Service, Street Pastors, Barnsley Recovery Steps, and licensed premises and staff. The fifth in a row Purple Flag award is a real testament to the collective energy and time invested in our town centre.

Why NOW is the best time to submit your Tax Return

Eddisons strikes proptech deal with valuations platform Eddisons has signed a partnership deal with proptech firm Valos in a collaboration which is designed to streamline the Leeds-headquartered property consultancy’s valuation process and enhance the valuation reports it produces for clients.

The fast-growing firm has adopted the Valos technology across its 100-strong valuation team in a move which the firm says will drive efficiencies and increase the speed with which valuations are delivered to clients.

our business, with more than 100 people in our team nationally and increasing demand from our clients for the highest quality valuation advice across the commercial and residential sectors.

has clearly been built by valuers that understand our core needs, seamlessly combining accurate data in bespoke templates. This will transform the delivery of our valuation services for clients, improving our efficiency, and freeing up time for our valuers to focus on providing informed insight and the best advice.” Valos co-founder and CEO Alex Kountourides said: “Eddisons are an innovative firm that are renowned for their client-focused approach and we are proud to be working with them and helping them to drive positive change in their valuation work through the incorporation of new technology

The platform automates the “As technology plays an increasingly routine elements of carrying out central role in our operations, we valuations, improving accuracy are committed to embracing bestand cutting production time, as in-class solutions to help our valuers well as producing enhanced data, and enhance the service we provide enabling valuers to generate more to our clients. “Of course, valuers remain integral to comprehensive valuations. “When we evaluated the technology the valuation process and with Valos Eddisons regional valuation director options, Valos emerged as the clear I think we have achieved the perfect Phil Deakin said: “Valuation is an choice and that was down to the blend of automation and valuer input important and growing area of breadth of the product. The platform to empower and not replace them.” TopicUK December 2023

Leeds Manufacturing Festival 2024 The Leeds Manufacturing Festival returns this month with an extended, year-round programme of events highlighting career opportunities for young people in the region’s manufacturing sector. Now in its seventh year, the festival is designed to raise the profile of the industry in the city, promoting the wide range of careers on offer, and building relationships between employers and schools and colleges. Dozens of big-name manufacturing and engineering businesses, from Sulzer Pumps and Kirkstall Precision Engineering to air conditioning manufacturer Airedale International and iconic textiles producer AW Hainsworth, are involved in this year’s festival, which has become a cornerstone of many firms’ new talent recruitment strategy.

West Yorkshire is home to around 5,600 manufacturing firms employing over 104,000 people and Leeds is the UK’s third largest manufacturing centre by local authority area. Leeds city region boasts the UK’s largest manufacturing employment base, generating £8.26 billion a year, 14% of the region’s economic output.

Ben Wilson, director of Leeds fibreglass moulding manufacturer MPM and festival chair, said: “Last year’s festival was a runaway success. A really engaging programme of events made a tremendous impact in boosting young people’s awareness of the vast range of career options that our vibrant manufacturing industry offers, and we now have more employers, schools and colleges taking part than ever before.

This year’s festival will launch at Leeds City College’s Printworks Campus on 22 February. High-profile keynote speakers, Steve Burnell MD of Boeing Defence UK, which employs over 2,000 people across its sites in the UK, and Fiona McGarry from manufacturers’ organisation Make UK, will top the bill at the event, with contributions from both employers and younger people working in manufacturing.

“Building on the momentum we have created, this year our programme will be even bigger and better. With a focus on best practice, skills development initiatives, careers advice and apprenticeships, we’re aiming to go even further towards addressing the issue of recruitment and future skills which remains the primary challenge for manufacturing employers.”

Highlights of this year’s festival programme will include a Manufacturing Careers Showcase, bringing employers together with students to talk about the wide range of roles involved in a manufacturing business. A focus on the best West Yorkshire employers currently offering engineering apprenticeships will see the launch of a new Excellent Employers directory,

and the new three-A-level-equivalent ‘T level’ technical qualification will also come under the spotlight. In Ju n e , a n e x p a n d e d L e e d s Manufacturing Festival Awards will once again celebrate the achievements and talent of some of the most outstanding younger people working in the industry, with new categories announced to further extend the reach of the awards. Fi o n a Mc G a r r y, M a ke U K e n g a g e m e n t m a n a g e r, s a i d : “The latest figures show British manufacturing has risen from ninth to eighth in the world industry rankings in the last year, currently accounting for nearly half of all UK exports, employing 2.6 million people in this country and with a £224bn output. Yet, despite the fact that manufacturing jobs remain among the best paid across the whole economy, recruitment and attracting talented young people into the industry continues to be the number one problem facing employers in the sector. “That’s why the Leeds Manufacturing Festival plays such a vital role in successfully showcasing the fantastic well-paid careers that are on offer in this vibrant sector, to school and college students who are at the stage of making important decisions about their future.” The festival launch e ve nt on

Elliott Thompson, and Deividas Ramanovas, apprentices at Leeds electrical engineering firm Saftronics

22 February will also feature a panel of industry experts taking audience questions. The panel will include Adam Tipper from manufacturing apprenticeships benchmarking organisation, Next Gen Makers; Mitch Scott from Leeds City College; festival chair Ben Wilson; and Matt Booth, associate director at specialist manufacturing industry recruiter E3.

Tyra Jones, who joined Sulzer as a mechanical engineering apprentice in 2016 and is now a planning team leader with the firm, and Cameron Pinder, who is in the second year of his level 3 advanced manufacturing apprenticeship at Kirkstall Precision Engineering, will also take part and will share their manufacturing experience and reasons for choosing careers in the industry.

a fully rounded service for our clients where required. “ I w o u l d a l s o l i ke to e x te n d m y c o n g r a t u l a t i o n s to C l a r a and Laura on their recent CAAV exam success. They are assets to our team and their new qualifications cement their position in offering our clients the very best support and advice.” TopicUK December 2023

THE YORKSHIRE COAST

Leap in senior medic recruitment thanks to a new partnership

A remarkable leap in the recruitment of senior medical staff has been achieved thanks to the efforts of a Scarboroughbased business organisation - filling vital gaps that had been hard to resolve. As many as seven more doctors and consultants are now in post at Scarborough Hospital largely because of a series of speciallyarranged dinners, with talks and tours to share the joys and benefits of living locally. The hosting has been organised by the Scarborough Business Ambassadors for NHS delegates all looking to apply for consultant vacancies. A seventh dinner engagement is

scheduled for May, aiming to further increase the recruitment success which has turned round what had been a growing local concern. At the events, prospective experienced doctors from a range of specialisms hear why Scarborough is an exceptional place to work and live, helping to put the area high up in their location decisions. The process has significantly boosted the arrival of highly-qualified staff

for York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. “Our support for the trust’s senior recruitment strategy is proving to be vital for our local health services and patients,” said Jo Thompson, who chairs the Ambassadors. “We are glad that linking-up in this way has helped to produce such

THE YORKSHIRE COAST

important outcomes for the people and health provision of the area, as well as offering such valuable positions for well-qualified medical staff.” The trust covers a wide geography, including Whitby, Bridlington and Malton areas. The most recent dinner took place at Scarborough TEC’s 1909 restaurant with nearly 40 people present. Other dinners have taken place at hotels in the town.

“Our role is to sell Scarborough to skilled senior medical staff who are considering taking up important jobs for our health trust, working in local hospitals and providing essential services.” He spoke about the SBA’s work and also the experience and joys of living in Scarborough. He referred to the range of major

employers and attractions - and the range of cultural and leisure pursuits and sea-based activities. Also present were other SBA directors, North Yorkshire Council chief executive Richard Flinton, Vinci Construction UK (sponsor) and Vice Lord-Lieutenant of North Yorkshire Christopher Legard, who spoke of his support for the event.

The health trust’s senior leadership team were present, including Medical Director Dr Karen Stone, chief executive Simon Morritt, Jo Southwell, Capital Projects Manager, and senior consultant and associate medical director Dr Phil Dickinson. Dr Dickinson thanked the Scarborough Business Ambassadors for extending the trust’s recruitment interactions. Simon Bull, an SBA director, presented stunning imagery of the Scarborough area’s attractions and locations. TopicUK December 2023

THE YORKSHIRE COAST

Business backing for brilliant project that inspires youngsters Helping children to grow and thrive with greater confidence By: Jane Whelan, Children’s University Co-ordinator

Youngsters on the Yorkshire coast are being inspired by a scheme that relies on business support.

Just over a year ago, Coast and Vale Community Action (CaVCA) a Scarborough-based charity which supports local people to do good things in their communities, took over the franchise to deliver the

Children’s University on the coast following many years of successful delivery by the University of Hull. A national charitable and educational ‘brand,’ the Children’s

THE YORKSHIRE COAST rewards their achievements to help foster aspiration and pride. They can earn point by participating in a range of activities outside of school, and CaVCA supports hundreds of accredited learning destinations in the local area. Last year, the first year of CaVCA’s co-ordination of the scheme, saw 196 children from 15 schools take to the stage in cap and gown to receive their graduation certificate, cheered on by proud parents, carers and teachers. We want to grow this, and we have already almost doubled the number of participating schools for the current financial year. Participation in Children’s University is such a positive experience for children, schools and families. When a child takes part in Children’s University then it is more likely that their younger siblings will too, when they are old enough.

University enables children to broaden their horizons and take part in activities they might not otherwise participate in.

Participation in Children’s University is such a positive experience for children, schools and families...

This improves their resilience and engagement - and inspires them and helps them to reach their full potential. Children receive a ‘passport’ to learning, in which they log their learning hours and once they have accumulated 30 hours or more, they have a university-style graduation which recognises and

Parents of children who participate in Children’s University are more likely to take an active interest in their children’s education, enjoying positive relationships with schools. Children who participate in Children’s University develop an appetite for exploration and discovery, maximising the opportunities available to them on their doorstep. This helps them not only to achieve academically, but also socially and at a community level, with a greater awareness of how their local community works. CaVCA is not funded to carry out this TopicUK December 2023

THE YORKSHIRE COAST

work, nor do we charge schools or parents for their participation. To continue this life-enhancing scheme we need to secure sponsorship

and donations from businesses and individuals. We know how valuable extra-curricular

learning is to our children, not only in terms of learning itself, but also in terms of awakening an appetite for learning which will carry them forward into the future. We have been lucky enough to receive sponsorship to continue this important work from: Scarborough Business Ambassadors, Beyond Housing in association with Travis Perkins, AngloAmerican, Boyes Stores, Proudfoots stores, 54North Homes and the Ed DeNunzio charitable trust. Moving forward we would love to talk to any other businesses which might be interested in helping support this fantastic opportunity for our primary age children The CU in the future.

Please E -mail jane. whelan@cavca.org.uk

THE YORKSHIRE COAST

TopicUK December 2023

THE YORKSHIRE COAST

Appeal to coastal business in push for hospital 'extras'

Businesses on the coast are being asked by York & Scarborough Hospitals Charity to help give a final push to a £400,000 appeal to make a hospital stay much more pleasant. Over the next few months, a new Scarborough Urgent and Emergency Care Centre will transform the overall experience and facilities at the hospital as part of a £47m re-development. Companies can join a Business Club which has been created to help show community support for the 'extras' that will create the best possible environment for patients and staff and to make a hospital stay a more comforting and relaxing experience. "We are asking businesses to partner with us and commit to raising at

least £1,000 for the appeal. This can be through donations, employee fundraising or holding events. Our dedicated team can support you with bespoke ideas," said a spokesperson for the York & Scarborough Hospitals Charity. "We have already committed £450,000 to the centre. We need your help to raise an additional £400,000 through the Urgent and Emergency Care Appeal to support the development." Thanks to fund-raising and donations already given by businesses, nearly

90% of the £400,000 target of £400,000 has been raised. The appeal for the final amount was discussed at a Scarborough Business Ambassadors meeting, where Health and Wellbeing representative Su Richings said one idea was to offer plaques to businesses or people who donate. There will be tours followed by afternoon tea for interested parties early in 2024 and the major new unit aims to open by mid-year. Many businesses have pledged donations through fund-raising, such as Murphy Utilities Golf Day (£1,956), Wilsons Retail (£2,000) and Smailes Goldie accountants sponsored walk (£8,000). Several other events by other companies are underway.

THE YORKSHIRE COAST

The funds will go towards providing 'extras' for both patients, visitors and staff over and above the expected levels of hospital care and facilities ... such as family rooms, ensuite relatives’ accommodation and relaxing new gardens and terraces. •

Benefits for businesses taking part include:

•

Supporting the community

•

Employees’ fundraising and volunteering opportunities

•

Recognition in the new building and on the appeal website

•

Updates on the project and invitation to opening event

care and the acute medical unit, and impro ving outcomes for the frail elderly. There will be a new, dedicated diagnostic zone providing CT scans, general X-ray, and ultrasound. It is a major engineering project that will reconfigure the hospital’s patient flow with extra facilities and smarter infrastructure. This will enable more patients to be seen as quickly and safely as possible and have more flexibility

to cope with any future crises such as pandemics. It will also ensure some of the poorliest patients in the hospital are cared for in one integrated clinical ward environment rather than being moved to other wards. When the current emergency department opened in 1985, it served 15,000 patients a year – and now approaching 70,000. For Business Club details, contact maya.liversidge@york.nhs.uk

The overall re-development is the largest scheme ever undertaken by the health trust. It includes a two-storey new build, more hi-tech helicopter pad (which is already in use), combining and expanding the current emergency department, better triaging, same day emergency TopicUK December 2023

The female entrepreneur on a mission to change how society views disability Rachel Hill founded Hillside Childcare in 2007, before that she his gross motor skills, not knowing built her career in childcare, education and SEND (Special what the future would hold, together Educational Needs and Disabilities for children, young people. they moved forward and took life a day at a time. Tommy is now 14 and uses a walking frame or a wheelchair. In 2010 when Rachel became a mother to her son Tommy, she didn’t know at the time that her parenting journey may not be straightforward and that those same qualifications and experiences in special educational needs and disability would hold such value to her own family one day. Rachel said; “it wasn’t until I became a mother that I felt motivated to support

others, especially those who have children with special needs and disabilities, as that was my new reality.” On realising her son wasn’t meeting his movement milestones as a baby, Rachel and her family began their journey. After many appointments, tests and assessments, there were no diagnoses and they were told that Tommy had developmental delay of

Rachel added; “I think as a mum you know when something doesn’t feel quite right, it’s that magic mother instinct you hear so much about, and whilst other children Tommy’s age were starting to achieve certain milestones, especially in movement, we were told to wait until he was 12-18 months before any referrals would be made as it was too early to confirm if there were any problems.”

Alongside caring for her family, Rachel was building a successful daycare business, e mplo ying a staff team of 75 she had four thriving day nurseries. Juggling her business, providing support to children and their families, and managing household responsibilities, Rachel was often asked questions about Tommy’s development and to gain some control over this, she created the ‘Rock on Tommy’ Facebook group. “It was when he was due to start nursery school, I felt like I needed some control of the situation and his disability, and without being outfaced by lots of questions from other parents and even other children on the first day of school, I decided to share more online about our experiences and the things he was doing. It became a little diary, where we shared family days and special moments, as well as some of the not-so-fun moments.

Tommy is 14 now, and he is my biggest motivator every single day. I know that if he can do that to me, he can do it for others too...

She continued: “Between 18 months and 3 years old, and having learnt more, I found it very difficult and was often upset and so very protective of him. There were some days where I could’ve wrapped him up and run away, other days where I felt like superwoman. It was a rollercoaster, but actually, these are all normal emotions as parents and I had to become stronger for Tommy and for myself.”

“We gained so much comfort from the response we received from our followers, but it was the community of other parents in a similar situation that really made me feel most relatable. It filled me and my husband with so much hope that without realising we had built our very own community, and in a quick space of time, we had hundreds following the page too.” And whilst Rachel was her own boss and not personally subject to discrimination within the workplace, she was in contact with mothers who were. Through the Rock on Tommy platform and the work she was doing online with their Facebook community, Rachel's perspective

shifted when it came to business, and ultimately the type of work she wanted to put her energy into. In 2023, after sixteen years of outstanding success, Rachel stepped away from her childcare business and took some muchneeded time out before taking on her new chapter; raising awareness and making change for families in the UK who have children with disabilities and special needs. By combining both her career pathway and her home life, Rachel is no w using ‘he r calling’ to campaign across the UK to ensure that Tommy, and others like him, are seen and heard. She said: “Tommy is 14 now, and he is my biggest motivator every single day. I know that if he can do that to me, he can do it for others too.” Rachel explained: “I started my childcare business scared and very nervous, with only two children on my books, and yes it was a lot of hard work – just like this will be - but we made it a success. I know now that this is my calling to combine my years of experience to support other children and offer online learning and a voice to families who look a lot like ours. It’s obvious now that the work I’ve done over two decades has been leading up to this, I just didn’t know it when I was eighteen and stepping into a childcare environment for the very first time.” In 2024 Rachel, alongside her family and of course her son Tommy, hopes to support families who may feel lost in a system, and at times, a world that isn’t always ready for them and if a New Year isn’t the right time to start, then when is? TopicUK December 2023

The retail industry’s shift towards experiences rather than products will speed up over the next few years and approach ‘tipping point’ in 2025, with consumers expecting to see more innovative in-store performances.’

Credit: Rodney Pedroza Portraits London

Flashback to beauty retail in 2023 By: Janet Milner-Walker - Founder of Bespoke Advantage

As we enter a new year, it is good to reflect on how the previous year unfolded, to plan ahead for the coming one. The beauty industry is a buoyant industry, that despite economic challenges, playing out globally, has remained comfortably afloat.

have increased their online offering significantly since the pandemic, and this looks set to continue, with several of them focusing on introducing new categories such as wellness which is ever growing.

In the UK consumers spent on average £487 per head on health and beauty products in 2022 (Global Data), and over the next five-years are forecast to invest even more, leading to an additional £73 per head. This makes this one of the fastest growing sectors in the UK. Nine out of ten health and beauty shoppers still purchase products in store, but the spend is shifting online. Retailers

Looking back to 2023, beauty retailers were ‘all change’. Boots announced that they would be shutting 300 of their British stores over the coming year, despite a positive financial performance. This statement came as part of a bigger closure plan which will see Boots shrinking their store portfolio from 2,200 stores to 1,900. They still remain one of the largest retailers in the UK.

Superdrug launched a marketplace, to promote over 10 000 products, supporting indie beauty brands in launching into retail. Superdrug unveiled their plans to invest in 25 new stores as they look to expand their bricks-and-mortar footprint.

UK Beauty Retail Landscape Marks and Spencer announced the closure of twenty stores, M&S has always had a strong own-label beauty range, including Apothecary which performs well. They have invested in premium beauty brands, and introduced Clinique and Benefit counters to key stores. Over the past few years, we have seen supermarkets heavily invest into building their beauty category

products online, and this is only the tip of the iceberg.

- from one end of the scale to the other. On the budget side Aldi has their strong own brand offering, Lacura, and Lidl has Cien, both have great beauty dupes, based on iconic beauty products. The Ocado Group has invested in premium beauty through introducing brands like Bamford, Cowshed, Votary, Daylesford. Waitrose has also built a good albeit small beauty offering with premium beauty brands including Neal’s Yard. Sainsbury’s has invested in their beauty category over the past few years, with premium beauty now available across 250 stores, with dedicated aisles, with wooden fixtures, soft lighting, and expert beauty teams to provide advice. They have also introduced the largest selection of serums in their serum bars, available across 106 of their stores. Tesco is piloting a new sensitive skin section in almost 100 selected stores, to make it easier for customers to find products for their skin types. They recently announced that they are introducing over 300 new cosmetics

Sephora opened a second store, with the first located in the largest retail and leisure destination in Europe, Westfield London, featuring brands including Chanel, Charlotte Tilbury, Dior, Elemis, Olaplex and Kiehl’s amongst others. Glossier announced their first UK international partnership exclusively with Sephora, in their Westfield store. This follows the opening of Glossier’s store in Covent Garden and the launch of their website Glossier.com. Glossier had a trail blazing launch in Sephora US, across 640 stores in the US and Canada, and was one of the most searched for brands on Sephora’s website. The UK is their second largest market, and launching with Sephora exclusively in the UK was a natural fit. ABOUT JANET MILNERWALKER Janet Milner-Walker is the founder and managing director of Bespoke Advantage, and B ea u t y to L if e. S h e i s a ls o an international speaker, a freelance writer, and a trusted advisor to companies in the beauty and wellness sector. Bespoke Advantage is an international consultancy working with clients in the beauty and wellness space. Their award-winning client based includes beauty and wellness brands, retailers, investors and trade bodies, whom they support in developing and building their brands in the marketplace www.thebespokeadvantage. com

The Perfume Shop reported an outstanding sales period for Father’s Day last year with a record 224,000 bottles sold over 14 days in the run up to the big day on the 18th of June 2023. This equates to approximately 11 units sold every minute. Dior Sauvage, Prada Luna Rossa Ocean and Bleu de Chanel were amongst the most popular fragrance choices this Father’s Day. So, whilst some say that retail is being challenged, there are numerous channels to consider in the beauty industry when reviewing your retail strategy – from bricks and mortar, to online specialist beauty retailers, pharmacies, supermarkets and marketplaces, to name but a few. If you are looking for support with growing your brand in 2024, get in touch. We are well versed in building brands across the beauty and wellness industry and would love to hear from you. TopicUK December 2023

FORM AN ORDERLY By: Graham Courtney - Motoring Correspondent

The Q7 has been a terrific success for Audi…big, powerful, capable of carrying seven people in comfort over a colossal distance. However, although the Q7 has a brutish yet handsome silhouette, perhaps you’d like a bit more style.

Like this SQ8 for example... The SQ8 certainly looks the part… although it’s probably one of those cars that looks better in certain colours. The one you see here is the one we tested….the paint is called Sakhir Gold. We’d call plain old Sand. Or

undercoat. And it showed the dirt something rotten. Under the bonnet, you get a thumping V8 500 bhp 4.0 litre petrol engine? 0-60 mph takes 4.1 seconds; top speed is 155 mph. For the record, Audi reckon you’ll get 23 mpg, but let’s face it, if you

can afford the asking price of £93,925 (Jan ‘24) we suspect that mpg figures will be of little interest to you. If you enjoy a brisk manner of driving, your mpg will be mid-teens. As you can see from the performance figures, this is a seriously quick

machine. And yes, it can handle the power. You can hustle the SQ8 along a twisty road…there’s very little body roll…and of course the quattro allwheel drive contributes massively to the roadholding as does the rearwheel steering. It’s also supremely comfortable. Only the lumpiest roads caused the air suspension to get flustered. The Sport suspension mode stiffens things, but the car still stays remarkably poised. Quick bit of praise for the seats and the seating position. A lot of drivers in SUVs enjoy a high-ish seating position because it does make it easier to place the car on tight roads or when parking. Others prefer a lower, sporty position. Too many cars won’t let you do both. The Audi SQ8 will. And the heated and ventilated q u i l te d l e a t h e r s e a t s l o o k wonderful. Super comfy too. A s for equipme nt, you get everything you could possibly need or want. The centre of the fascia is dominated by a 10-inch infotainment screen. It looks the part and when you press the button icons, you get a haptic feedback so at least you know that you’ve done something. There’s also another screen situated just in front of the gear selector which adjusts the air conditioning. One bit of kit we loved was the matrix headlights. They’re brilliant in every sense of the word. If you want a coupé SUV which will easily seat five adults and carry all of their luggage, it’s hard to think of a better continental express than the Audi SQ8. A blast to the South of France suddenly becomes very tempting. TopicUK December 2023

AVENGER MAKES A BIT OF HISTORY By: Graham Courtney - Motoring Correspondent

(and you’re showing your age if you can remember the Hillman Avenger)

part of the group which also includes Peugeot, Citroen, Fiat and Vauxhall.

So, why is the car you see here making a bit of history? Simple. The Avenger is the first 100% electric car to be made by the US car giant, Jeep. You can also get a petrol or hybrid version…. but the one we’re trying is the battery driven model, although it’s worth pointing out that the 1.2 litre 100bhp petrol Avenger costs £23,600 (Feb 24) while the 158bhp electric comes in at a much more expensive £34,800. Do the maths. From the front in particular, you can tell this is a Jeep straightaway. Underneath

the smart exterior, Jeep has reached into the Stellantis parts bin. Jeep is now

The electric Avenger gets a predicted range of 246 miles with power going to the front wheels. Shock…this Jeep doesn’t have all-wheel drive so better skip the idea of doing some serious off-roading and stick to the tarmac or wait until the end of the year when a 4x4 arrives. Having said that, the Avenger does get Snow, Mud and Sand settings to join the usual array of Normal, Eco and Sport. The slightly lofty ride height will help you cross a rutted track and the clever traction control gadgetry will keep you going over loose or soggy ground. If you drive in town traffic and use the Eco mode, Jeep reckon you’ll get close to 370 miles. That could be optimistic in ‘real world’ driving though. Charging 20-80% takes around 8 hours

on a typical wallbox, but if you can find a rapid charger you’ll get that sort of top-up in about 25 minutes. Out on the road, the Avenger drives very nicely indeed. The ride is smooth and controlled. The light steering makes it a nimble car to drive around town and the boxy dimensions make it easy to place on the road or when parking. It’s not a flying machine…0-60 takes 9.6 seconds…but for the majority of the time, it feels adequately powered. Three trims are available…Longitude, Altitude and Summit….each one adds about two grand to the price. All use the same power plant. If you go for the mid-level Altitude trim, you’ll get all of the essentials…DAB radio, powered tailgate, rear parking sensors, air con, adaptive cruise control, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto which allow you to mirror your phone’s

sat nay through the central 10.25inch touchscreen which, incidentally, has clear and responsive graphics. Overall the interior is a plus point. It looks smart. The problem with the Avenger being one of the smaller cars in its class is the rear legroom. If you have a 6-foot tall driver, it’s a bit tight in the back. Children will be fine. You have loads of storage space though.

As electric cars go, the Jeep Avenger is worth a serious look if you want something that fits the Jeep mould and can double-up as a family holdall, school runabout, and cope with the occasional trip onto light off-road territory. It looks good and stands out from an increasingly anonymous crowd. For families who like the hunky look of a Jeep and want to go down the route of an electric car, it should fit the bill perfectly. TopicUK December 2023

Law firm opens 19th regional office, and its first in Bradford

Based in Queensbury, Ison Harrison’s new office, on Brighouse Road, will be managed by Susan Ram, a solicitor, specialising in residential conveyancing, who completed her training contract with the firm and has recently re-joined in January to manage the Queensbury branch.

the wider expertise in the firm for commercial clients.

Susan has over 20 years of conveyancing experience and specialises in residential sales and purchases with comprehensive experience of transfer of equity deals, re-mortgages and declarations of trust.

remedies, children and domestic abuse. After joining the firm in 2020, she was appointed as a partner in 2017 and a director in 2022, when the business became the first law firm in the region to transition to full employee ownership.

The team at Queensbury also includes: Sarah Laughey, director and head of the firm’s family law division; Sarah Zahid, a wills and probate solicitor; Louise Shuttleworth, licensed conveyancer, and Zoe Wogan, a conveyancing assistant.

Q ueensbury is the third new office the firm has opened since becoming entirely employeeowned, after Doncaster last year and Wakefield in 2022.

Susan commented: “The whole team is looking forward to building a presence across Bradford and beyond. Opening our new office is the next phase of Ison Harrison’s ongoing success and it also enables us to connect with the local community, create relationships and provide full legal support, mirroring what we’ve achieved across the region. As part of our local relationship-building activity, we are offering our first 100 customers a £20 voucher that they can spend at selected local businesses.”

The Queensbury office is offering a comprehensive suite of legal services for both business and Sarah’s family law experience is private clients, ranging from new diverse, offering the full range of build and conveyancing to family family legal services, fromGareth divorce Credit: Buddo law and wills and probate matters, and separation to related financial as well as being able to draw on

Managing partner Jonathan Wearing, said: “Opening our 19th office in the region is very exciting and gets the year off to the best possible start. It’s also our first office in Bradford so we’re very much looking forward to growing our presence there.”

YOUR HOME AWAY FROM HOME Contemporary elegance, impeccable service and the best hotels in Leeds – a stay here is one of truly elevated luxury.

EFFORTLESSLY EDGY DINING Stylish, elegant, and sophisticated: discover a luxurious and immersive dining experience at Dakota 0113 322 6261

0113 322 6261

8 RUS SEL L STREET, L EEDS L S 1 5 R N

8 RUSSELL STREET, LEEDS LS1 5RN

DAKOTAHOTELS.CO.UK