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Editors notes
Welcome to the Cristmas edition of Yorkshire BusinessMan magazine.
By group editor Gill Laidler
Welcome to the very first Yorkshire Businessman magazine, rebranded from the popular TopicUK magazine that originally launched in 2013.
Due to the success of Yorkshire Businesswoman and the monthly events we hold, we made the decision to mirror this for men and as a result, welcomed more than 70 guests to Uyare Restaurant on International Men’s Day, 19th November for the official launch.
Hosted for us by Leeds, Bradford and York Chamber of Commerce CEO James Mason, guests listened to our panel of speakers, enjoyed drinks from the bar and browsed the pop-up stands. Our sincere thanks go to James who did a brilliant job and to the guest panel. You can read the full story with images on pages 24 and 25.
In addition, as you are reading this, you will see we have a new website to accompany the magazine https:// yorkshirebusinessman.co.uk this is also where you will find the magazine bi-monthly, packed with news stories and features from across the region.
We also have some new features coming up for the magazine. Fitness and health trainer Richard Hill will be sharing tips and hints with us to make sure all readers are in great health and we have lots more coming
up for 2026. Do get in touch with us if you would like to contribute with an interesting feature editor@ yorkshirebusinessman.co.uk
We will also be creating a monthly membership where readers will have access to a private member area and be able to attend our regular events free of charge. Full details can be found on the website or by contacting Debbie Dobson dd@yorkshirebusinessman. co.uk
For now, I would like to take this opportunity to wish all our readers a very merry Christmas and a healthy and prosperous New Year. See you again in February.
Gill X
Mayor showcases West Yorkshire’s delivery on 'net zero'
West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin is in Rio de Janeiro for the C40 World Mayors Summit, joining leaders from around the world to push for bolder action on climate to create jobs, cut energy bills, and drive economic growth.
Speaking to some of the world’s most prominent city leaders ahead of the landmark COP30 climate conference in Brazil, Mayor Brabin will champion West Yorkshire’s leadership on climate action, which has seen over £300 million leveraged into cutting emissions over the past five years.
Flagship investments in clean power include a programme that match funds businesses to green their processes and save on energy bills, and a programme that makes solar panels and home upgrades more accessible and affordable for local households, supporting the creation of skilled, green jobs.
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “West Yorkshire is proving that net zero does not have to mean extra costs for hardworking families - it can mean betterpaid jobs, lower bills and more vibrant communities for all.
“By investing in skills, working with business and backing innovation in our booming green sector, we’re powering
new industries and pushing ahead to meet our target of a net zero West Yorkshire by 2038.
“I’m joining London Mayor Sadiq Khan in Rio this week to show that with devolution, we no longer have to sit around and wait for national leaders to rescue us from the cost of living and the climate crisis - we can take bold action ourselves to deliver real change.”
West Yorkshire’s leadership on clean growth is helping to power one of its fastest-growing sectors. The region’s green economy is already worth £8.1 billion, supporting over 53,000 jobs across 3,000 businesses, and is set to grow by 37% by 2025/26.
The region’s Local Growth Plan is scaling up this success by backing businesses to access finance, skills and markets, and helping them to create more well-paid careers in clean energy, construction and green finance, to name a few.
In its drive to help small and medium-sized businesses to decarbonise their processes and cut the amount they spend on energy, the West Yorkshire Combined Authority has approved 62 projects, generating over 2.75 million kWh of renewable energy and saving 1,000 tonnes of CO2 per year.
A programme to insulate every social home in West Yorkshire is also well underway, with over 4,000 homes receiving free upgrades since 2022, alongside low-interest loans for private homeowners to invest in green technologies that reduce energy bills over the long-term.
Plans are also progressing for an energy efficient, fully integrated transport system - the Weaver Network - which will include the full electrification of its publicly-run bus fleet, as just one part of a reliable and affordable Mass Transit system that encourages people to get out of their polluting cars and onto good public transport.
The C40 Summit brings together mayors from nearly 100 cities around the world to share how local leadership is delivering real results on the road to net zero and COP30.
Chadwick Lawrence recognised for progressive culture with awards success
Yorkshire law firm Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors has been recognised for its progressive and inclusive workplace culture, following a successful awards season.
Recently, the firm was awarded Employer of the Year at the Mid Yorkshire Chamber Awards, in recognition of its commitment to the well-being and growth of its employees.
It was also awarded runner-up for the Diversity & Inclusion Award, in acknowledgement of the firm’s efforts to champion diversity and promote inclusion through its workforce, customers and community outreach work.
The firm is also a finalist for Best Small Organisation for Business Culture at the Business Culture Awards, a national awards scheme celebrating leading business culture initiatives
from organisations across the country. The awards will take place on 26 November in London.
Chadwick Lawrence’s dedication to cultivating a culture where people feel valued, supported and motivated to build their careers has been recognised through its improving business performance, with a 35% increase in turnover to £16.67 million from 2024 to 2025. It was also named as one of the Sunday Times’ Best Places to Work in 2024.
These successes come following a raft of other award nominations earlier this year, with the firm shortlisted for five Yorkshire Legal Awards: Medium Law Firm of the Year; Corporate &
Commercial; LawTech Initiative of the Year; Litigation & Dispute Resolution; Debt Recovery, and two further national awards, the British Wills & Probate Awards: Best Place to Work and Probate Provider – North & Midlands.
Neil Wilson, Managing Partner at Chadwick Lawrence, commented: “We’re incredibly proud to see Chadwick Lawrence recognised for the culture we’ve worked so hard to build. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and these awards are a reflection of their passion, dedication and commitment to our shared values.
“Creating an environment where everyone feels supported, included and empowered to thrive is fundamental to our success – both as a business and as a community.”To find out more about Chadwick Lawrence, visit: https:// www.chadwicklawrence.co.uk/.
New chapter for Quod in Leeds
Leading independent planning consultancy Quod has announced the appointment of Richard Frudd as head of its Leeds office,starting a new chapter for its growing team.
Richard has been with Quod for more than 11 years and sits on Quod’s national management board. Bringing over 25 years’ experience in planning and development, his role as Head of Office will see him lead the team’s work supporting the delivery of significant planning and regeneration schemes across Yorkshire and beyond.
He will be supported in his new role by fellow directors, Emma Lancaster and James Beynon. The three have worked together for nearly a decade, offering clients across
the region a trusted, director-led service.
The Leeds office plays a central role in Quod’s UK-wide offer, providing integrated advice on planning, development and environmental matters. The team has helped to deliver some of the region’s most significant schemes, from one of its tallest buildings, to the expansion of Meadowhall, and the creation of Sovereign Square in Leeds.
Richard said: “This is an exciting moment for Quod in Leeds,
particularly given how high up planning is on both national and regional agendas. We’ve built a brilliant team here and I’m proud to be leading the next stage of our journey alongside Emma and James.
“We’re looking forward to building on the success of the last decade by continuing to work closely with our clients and public sector partners to create successful, well-connected and prosperous places across the region.”
Tom Dobson, managing director added: “Richard has played a central role in the success of our Leeds office over the past decade. His appointment comes at a time of real momentum as we build our team in Leeds while drawing on our national strength and connections.
“This next chapter is about building on that success and strengthening our presence in the North. With Richard, Emma and James leading the way, the team in Leeds is well placed to deliver this. Their combined experience, local knowledge and collaborative approach embody what makes Quod distinctive, and I’m looking forward to seeing what they achieve together.”
Quod’s Leeds office is part of a director-led national business that advises on some of the UK’s most significant developments. From planning strategy and development delivery to environmental and infrastructure advice, the team works with clients to unlock projects that bring lasting value to communities and places.
(L-R) James Beynon, Richard Frudd, Emma Lancaster
Four new trainee solicitors have joined Ward Hadaway’s Leeds office as part of the firm’s 2025 intake, marking another step in the firm’s continued investment in developing home-grown legal talent across Yorkshire.
The new trainees - Callum Worts, Alexandra Wood-Tonks, Katharina Looi Kiesel and Hanzala Syed - are among 14 graduates who have joined the firm across its offices in Leeds, Manchester, Newcastle and, for the first time following the merger with The Endeavour Partnership, in Teesside.
Caroline Jones, head of emerging talent at Ward Hadaway, said: “Our trainee programme continues to be one of the most important ways we invest in the firm’s future. This year’s group represents a diverse mix of skills and backgrounds, and we’re especially pleased to welcome our first Teesside-based trainees onto our programme since The Endeavour Partnership merger. Each of our trainees brings something unique and we look forward to supporting them as they build their careers.”
Leeds law firm welcomes new trainees as part of 2025 intake
Ward Hadaway’s trainee programme offers exposure to a wide range of practice areas and clients, from regional businesses to national organisations. Looking ahead, Ward Hadaway will also open trainee opportunities in its Birmingham office for the first time, with applications for 2027 and 2028 training contracts opening on 1 November 2025.
Emma Digby, executive partner in the Leeds office, said: “Leeds continues to attract some of the best young lawyers in the country and we’re proud to be part of that. Our trainees are the future of the firm, and helping them grow, both professionally and personally, is something we take great pride in. Their enthusiasm and ideas bring real energy to our teams and to our clients.”
The Leeds trainees are settling into their first seats across a range of departments including corporate, litigation, real estate and employment. Each will work closely with senior lawyers, gaining practical experience on live client projects and contributing to the firm’s continued regional growth.
Callum Worts, one of the new Leeds-based trainees, said: “Starting my training contract in Leeds feels like the perfect next step. The city has an amazing legal community and being part of a firm that gives trainees real responsibility and support from day one makes a huge difference. I’m looking forward to learning from so many experienced people and contributing to the team.
Ward Hadaway strengthens rural team
A top 100 UK law firm has expanded its agriculture, rural business and estates team with a series of senior strategic appointments aimed at strengthening the breadth of legal services it provides for landowners,estate managers,farming families and rural businesses.
The Ward Hadaway team is led by Tom Wills, who has joined to become head of agriculture, rural business and estates. With strong roots in the Northeast and a handson approach, he advises farming families, estate owners, managers and rural businesses on everything from farm and land sales or purchases, landed estates, renewable energy and restructuring to succession planning and inheritance matters.
He is joined by Alison Hall, head of private client and Jamie Brown who will all complement the existing experienced team which includes Stefan Bainbridge, Alex Cox, Andrew Facer and Nick Gholkar. Together, the senior team forms part of a wider multi-disciplinary group offering national legal support across land, property, energy and development schemes, family matters, partnerships, succession
planning and disputes across England and Wales.
Tom Wills said: “Our clients want advisers who understand their pain points - that means spending time on-site, building relationships and offering advice that fits the realities of rural life. You can’t do this job properly without being immersed in your clients’ world - knowing how they manage their land and businesses, the pressures they face and what matters to them long term. Whether we’re advising on succession, a land sale or a diversification project, the legal advice must be practical, commercial and tailored to that specific client and their needs. That’s the kind of bespoke support this team is built to deliver - personal, informed and consistent.”
The expanded team is further bolstered by newly appointed rural
private client specialists Kirsty Allen, Megan Bradley and rural property solicitor Sam Watts.
Alison is head of private client at Ward Hadaway and is nationally recognised for her work in estate planning, trusts and succession. She works closely with high-net-worth individuals, landowners and families to provide advice on complex wealth structuring, tax planning and legacy matters. Alison’s expertise is a key part of the team’s holistic approach, helping clients navigate the legal and personal aspects of managing estates across generations.
Steven Petrie, managing partner at Ward Hadaway, said: “We’ve brought together a fantastic, experienced team encompassing leaders in the sector who combine technical expertise with real insight into the rural economy. The team reflects our continued investment and desire in this sector to give our clients the best advice & service and emphasises the value we place on long-term relationships with our clients across the region."
Architectural practice The Harris Partnership has delivered two innovative retail projects for supermarket giant Aldi, which take the supermarket to new heights, and depths.
The newly opened Aldi Fulham Broadway is the retailer’s first basement location. The scheme saw an existing retail unit transformed into one of Aldi’s compact ‘Local’ formats. Designed by The Harris Partnership the project includes a new escalator and lift system leading to a 6,500 sq ft sales floor, complete with an in-store bakery.
The second recently opened store in Caterham, Surrey, follows an ‘Aldi on stilts’ concept that was developed for a highly constrained site. The elevated building features a contemporary yet contextsensitive design, housing a 12,500 sq ft retail area on the first floor. Customers access the space via travellator, lift or stairs, while 64 parking spaces are provided at ground level through a newly created site entrance.
Sarah Rhodes, design director said:
The Harris Partnership takes Aldi to the next level
“It has been a pleasure leading the design and delivery of these two challenging yet innovative schemes for Aldi. With the brand firmly established as one of the UK’s favourite supermarkets, it’s fantastic to be working with them on new formats and concepts.”
Darren Wing, associate added: “We have a long-running relationship with Aldi, and it’s always a pleasure to unlock the potential of exciting but complex sites to contribute to its ever-expanding London portfolio. We look forward to continuing this partnership for many stores to come.”
Outdo eyes expansion with new chair appointment
The UK’s fastest-growingoutdoormediacompany, Outdo Media — formerly CP Media, Eye Airports and Adverta — has appointed Steve Auckland, a specialist in the media industry with a track record of driving business growth,as its new chairman.
Steve takes over from Andrew Walker who established CP Media in 2010 and now becomes a non-executive director.
Steve brings a wealth of experience in senior leadership gained in the media industry to his new role. He was previously managing director of Metro, CEO at the Evening Standard, Independent and i Media, Northcliffe Media/Local World, and managing director of Yorkshire Post Newspapers. He also holds several non-executive and advisory roles.
At Outdo Media, Steve will support the senior management team in driving business growth and acquisitions in the outdoor advertising solutions market.
He said: “I’m delighted to be joining Outdo at this exciting time. Andrew Walker and CEO Mike Brennan
have built a thriving business, and the talented team is now poised for further growth. My role is to facilitate and encourage further developments in a sector that holds huge potential.”
Outdo posted a record first half of 2025. Steve’s appointment follows the group’s rebranding earlier this year to reflect its success and future growth ambitions.
The company has reported 20% year-on-year growth and is targeting £20m revenue by 2027.
Mike Brennan said: “Our new branding as Outdo reflects the company we’ve become - dynamic, ambitious and national in scale. I am confident that Steve as chairman will bring a fresh perspective to our operations and help us achieve new heights.”
Outdo Media employs more than 70 people across the UK. It partners with local authorities, airports and transport operators to deliver impactful outdoor advertising across 30,000 sites nationwide. Its portfolio ranges from roundabout and lamppost banners to bus, tram and airport advertising.
Schofield Sweeney advises Caledonian Leisure on growing hotel portfolio
T ravel operator Caledonian Leisure has added the Broadway Park Hotel, a i104-bedroom hotel in the seaside resort of Sandown on the Isle of Wight, to its growing portfolio.
The Leeds-based holiday company was advised on the transaction by commercial law firm Schofield Sweeney. This marks the fourth addition to Caledonian’s portfolio that Schofield Sweeney has supported on.
Caledonian Leisure, which operates under the Caledonian Travel and UKBreakaway brands, is known for delivering great-value short breaks and holidays across the UK, Ireland and Europe.
The new property will be renamed The Caledonian Island Hotel – a name chosen to reflect the company’s affection for, and strong connection to, the Isle of Wight. It becomes the sixth hotel in the growing Caledonian Hotel Collection, joining popular locations in Torquay, Blackpool, Scarborough, Arrochar, and most recently, Callander.
“After the success of hotel collection in other key UK locations, we’re thrilled to welcome another beautiful hotel to our portfolio,” said Graham Rogers, managing director. “The former Broadway Park Hotel is a key addition to our collection, and we’re confident our customers will be delighted to see it become part of the Caledonian family.”
“The Isle of Wight is a wonderful holiday destination, and our customers always share fantastic feedback about their visits,” added David McDonald, Director. “We’re proud to bring this historic property into our collection and will soon begin recruiting local team members to deliver the exceptional warmth and hospitality that Caledonian is known for.”
The deal was led by Daniel Bisby and Victoria Boothby from Schofield Sweeney’s Corporate team, supported by Tom Jackson and Jess Townsend from the Real Estate team, and Annie Gray and Natalie Hami Dindar in the Employment team.
Sheffield-based health PR agency appointed to deliver global programme
Strategic healthcare PR agency, Evergreen PR, has been appointed by global prosthetic and orthotic technology company,Blatchford,to delivera12-monthPRprogrammetosupportitsgrowthintheUKandUS.
Blatchford, which employs over 900 people and has headquarters around the globe, including Basingstoke (UK), Ohio (USA) and Frankfurt (Germany) - plus an advanced rehabilitation clinic in Sheffield - is a leading multi-awardwinning manufacturer of some of the world’s most advanced prosthetic and orthotic devices.
Founded in 1890, the company combines clinical expertise and pioneering innovation to create awardwinning mobility solutions. In the UK, it has been the NHS’s supplier of choice since 1948 and has operated the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre for the Ministry of Defence since 2006, while its research and development work has resulted in exports growing at double the rate of the global prosthetics and orthotics market.
Evergreen PR will create global health PR campaigns that increase awareness of Blatchford among both patients and prosthetists, differentiate the company from competitors, and enhance its reputation as an expert in prosthetic technology in both regions.
As well as strategic planning and campaigns, the Evergreen team will support Blatchford with press office announcements, product launches and issues management.
Evergreen was selected without a competitive pitch based on its credentials and previous successes in creating award-winning campaigns on relevant issues such as diabetes and veteran healthcare, and for the business impact it was able to demonstrate it had delivered for med tech businesses and healthcare companies.
Leigh Greenwood, Evergreen PR managing director, will set the strategy for the account, while delivery will be led by Matt Thompson, director.
“Our breakthrough campaign specialism has been carefully designed to enable us to maximise impact for the clients we work with. We can’t wait to start delivering value for Blatchford and its communities around the globe.”
Emma Marsh, head of global marketing at Blatchford, said: “Evergreen PR’s strategic approach and proven track record in delivering impactful patient-focused health campaigns made them a natural appointment for us.
“We’re confident that working with them will help us to unlock exciting growth opportunities in two vital markets, allowing us to support even more patients with their prosthetic needs and make a real difference to their health and quality of life.”
Leigh said: “We’re really excited to be working with Blatchford to support its global growth ambitions and establish its unique perspective. This is a company that truly changes lives with its world-leading prosthetics technology and clinical expertiseand one that really cares about the patients that it serves.
Business owner named one of Great Britain’s best franchisees
Dave McCartney, owner of The Alternative Board (TAB) Leeds North, has been named a winner in the Great British Franchisee Awards 2025,recognising his exceptional leadership, long-standing commitment to the Leeds businesscommunity,and the transformative impact he’s made through peer-to-peer advisory boards.
Dave, who recently celebrated 15 years with TAB, has facilitated more than 500 advisory board meetings, helping hundreds of business owners across Leeds navigate challenges, scale their businesses, and make confident strategic decisions.
The judges praised Dave for his
consistency, collaborative spirit, and deep belief in the power of peer support. His work has helped shape the direction of businesses across sectors, offering leaders the space and structure to think clearly and act decisively.
Suzanne Melville from WhichFranchise and organiser of the awards commented,
“Dave is a true example of what makes a Great British Franchisee. His dedication to supporting business owners, his collaborative approach, and his ability to lead with both experience and empathy make him an invaluable part of the TAB network.”
Dave’s professional background spans over 26 years at director and CEO level, including leadership roles in public, family-owned, and VCbacked businesses. His expertise in strategic planning, operations, and B2B distribution brings real-world insight to every board meeting he facilitates.
Speaking about the award, Dave said, “I’m honoured to be recognised as a winner. A huge thank you to the team at The Alternative Board for their continued support and partnership. This isn’t just about individual effort; it’s a reflection of TAB and the businesses we’ve grown together. This award belongs to the whole TAB community and the business owners who make it what it is.”
Dave also played a key role this year in mentoring TAB Leeds Central’s new franchisee, Mark Williams, helping to build a strong, connected TAB presence across the wider Leeds region. His willingness to share insight and support others reflects the values of integrity and community that TAB stands for.
Bridget Petty, managing director of JPS Limited and a long-standing member of Dave’s TAB board, shared, “Being with TAB has been great. It’s like having a group of mentors, with the added bonus of having Dave to keep me focused and on track. His support was invaluable during a major business transition, and I’m still benefiting from the community he’s built.”
Walton & Co invests in new city centre office and apprentice hire
Leeds-based planning lawyers Walton & Co has expanded its team and moved into a new city centre office, marking a significant investment to support future growth and team collaboration.
After 17 years at its previous premises, the firm has relocated to Second Floor, 4 York Place, Leeds. The modern, 1,500 sq ft space was chosen to bring the entire team onto one floor, providing a more functional and collaborative working environment and capacity for future expansion.
The move keeps the firm in the heart of Leeds’s business district, just a few minutes’ walk from the train station, ensuring its continued presence in the city centre is ideal for clients and staff alike.
James Cook, director said: “The investment we have made in the fit-out and related technology is a testament to our commitment to Leeds City Centre and ensuring our staff and clients have a seamless experience with us. This modern space will facilitate better team collaboration as we continue to grow.”
The office expansion is accompanied by key team growth, with the firm having increased its headcount from seven to nine over the past year, adding a senior associate and now a new legal apprentice. The team comprises three directors, three fee earners, one apprentice, and two support staff.
This growth reflects the strong, sustained demand the firm is seeing for its niche, specialist advice in planning and highways law. The firm’s team of planning law experts now exceeds the size and expertise of many national firms’ specialist planning practices. Walton & Co was once again ranked amongst the leading practices for Planning in Yorkshire in The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners for 2025.
Joining the team is Rukayya Kara (19), from Dewsbury, as the firm’s newest legal apprentice. Rukayya, who recently completed her A Levels, will combine her practical experience with study at BPP University Law School.
Commenting on her appointment, Rukayya said: “Walton & Co’s strong reputation in the field of planning and highway law initially piqued my interest. As a boutique firm, I knew I would have the opportunity to learn directly from experts and obtain real hands-on experience in such a specialised field. My experience so far has really underlined that I made the best possible decision to begin my career here, with such a welcoming atmosphere and strong support system surrounding me.”
“The planning system continues to be complex to navigate, and that’s reflected in the number of new instructions we’re receiving,” added James. “Our investment in our new office and the recruitment of Rukayya marks the next step in the progression of the firm, and its ability to offer training within a niche practice.”
The team at Walton & Co - Alec Cropper and James Cook, centre back
Fantastic branches out with two new client wins
Gary Pattison, director of strategy and INSIGHT
Leeds-based full-service marketing agency, Fantastic, is marking the start of Q4 with two new client wins.
The agency has added Rotherhambased sustainable outdoor playground equipment specialist Precision Timber to its client roster, alongside national investment house Bailie Group.
Both companies will undergo Fantastic’s collaborative ‘INSIGHT’ programme to shape their future marketing strategies and refresh brand positioning. As part of this process, each business will also receive a detailed 12-month marketing strategy, setting out clear objectives, activity timelines, and success measures to drive momentum over the year ahead.
Bailie Group, head-quartered in Leeds, works closely with business owners looking to sell and exit their
companies, by providing self-funded investment and a strategic roadmap for acquisition. Fantastic has been tasked with refreshing the firm’s brand and website, delivering an improved user experience through streamlined navigation, engaging copy and contemporary design.
Precision Timber, meanwhile, is a family-owned playground supplier, specialising in natural design and high-quality, sustainable outdoor equipment. They work with a diverse range of settings, including schools, nurseries, and parks, as well as local attractions, local authorities, hospitality, and commercial spaces. As the firm expands into new target sectors, Fantastic will be delivering
paid digital activity to drive awareness and leads.
Director of strategy and INSIGHT Gary Pattison (pictured) said: “Our job as an agency is to take businesses to the next level, through real strategy that’s grounded in insight and delivers real impact.
“While Precision Timber and Bailie Group are very different in their markets, the fundamentals of our INSIGHT process remain the same; getting under the skin of each brand and defining how best to communicate their strengths to the right audiences.
“Both firms will now benefit from this comprehensive strategic insight going forward, with a clear, collaborative plan that sets the direction for the future.”
Yorkshire solicitors bolsters Commercial Property team
A LAW firm with an expanding network of offices spanning Yorkshire and the Northeast has strengthened one of its specialist teams with a hat-trick of new developments.
Milners, with offices in Leeds, Harrogate, Pontefract and Darlington, has appointed Andrew Little as head of commercial property, spearheading a growing, eight-strong department.
Colleague James Webb has been promoted into the role of associate solicitor while Hannah Buck has become the first employee to qualify in-house as a solicitor through the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) route.
Managing partner Simon Bass said: “As a people-powered law firm, we are thrilled to welcome a commercial property lawyer of Andrew’s calibre, as well as promote and support the home-grown talent of both James and Hannah.
“As we build on and extend the skills and strengths of our Commercial Property team, Andrew’s wide-
ranging experience – especially in meeting the needs of clients in the agricultural and farming sectors –adds a powerful new dimension.”
Andrew brings more than 11 years’ specialist legal expertise in commercial and agricultural property to Milners, having previously held senior positions in two regional law firms in Yorkshire.
He specialises in dealing with sales and purchases, commercial leases and farm business tenancies, conditional contracts, option agreements and promotion agreements for development land (including for renewables), overage agreements, mining and minerals leases, easements and sporting rights.
His portfolio highlights include acting for multiple landowners on a development land promotion
agreement, purchasing new sites for a regional car dealership network and arranging the refinancing over their existing sites, and acquiring a disused 12-acre factory site for conversion into an industrial estate.
Simon added: “Andrew’s in-depth knowledge equips him with the ability to give his clients bespoke advice during complex, multi-faceted transactions. This ensures they can see the bigger picture and ultimately make informed decisions
“He is motivated to achieve the best possible outcome for his clients and ultimately to establish longterm business relationships. This is reflected by Andrew continuing to act for clients whom he has assisted for over a decade.”James’ promotion to associate solicitor comes just five years after he joined the company, where he completed his training contract before developing a commercial property client base dealing with commercial lease matters, the sale and purchase of businesses, and commercial property refinancing.In a “first” for Milners, University of Leeds law graduate Hannah became a solicitor through the relatively new SQE route. After passing her first exam, which assesses functioning legal knowledge covering several areas of law, she was successful in the follow-up exam which tests candidates’ practical legal skills and knowledge.
Other members of the Commercial Property team include Sarah Roberts, Charlotte Thomas, Tiffany Jackson, April Gibson and Myriam Danesi.
Leeds College of Building to expand North Street Campus
Leeds College of Building (LCB) has announced the purchase of a large building adjacent to its North Street Campus — a move that will significantly expand facilities and open up new training opportunities.
The 5,000 m2 former Vodafone site on Melbourne Street sits next to LCB’s North Street Campus and will effectively increase the size of the estate by a third, marking a significant investment in the college’s future growth.
The acquisition strengthens LCB’s presence in an area where it has delivered education and skills for over 60 years. LCB is the UK's only specialist Further Education college dedicated to the construction and built environment sector, working with over 800 employers, including NG Bailey, BAM Nuttall, Morgan Sindall, and JN Bentley.
Planning is now underway to determine how the additional space can best be developed to address regional skills gaps. The project is now seeking crucial funding for renovation works and specialist equipment to support training in key government priority areas, including infrastructure, sustainability, and new housing.”
CEO and Principal Nikki Davis, who currently represents the further education sector on the Construction Skills Mission Board, said: “We are thrilled to announce the purchase of our neighbouring site. This exciting acquisition
will enable us to train even more construction professionals and safeguard a talent pipeline in areas such as groundwork for future construction projects across the region.
“This expansion is a significant step towards our ambition for growth as one of the nation’s only Construction Technical Excellence Colleges - strengthening a vital workforce that will keep the construction industry, and our economy, moving forward.
“With the government’s Skills White Paper targeting 60,000 new skilled jobs by the end of this Parliament, we’re optimistic that this project will secure vital investment and support from government and regional partners such as the West Yorkshire Combined Authority.”
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “It’s fantastic to see Leeds College of Building going from strength to strength, first being recognised as the Technical Excellence College for Construction for all of Yorkshire and the Humber and now expanding into these exciting new premises.
“By training the skilled workers we need for transformational projects like constructing tramlines, building new homes and retrofitting existing ones, Leeds College of Building puts our region at the epicentre of the nation’s rebuilding effort, creating good jobs and putting more money in people’s pockets.”
LCB was named one of the first ever Construction Technical Excellence Colleges (CTEC) in August. Only 10 colleges across England were awarded the status for the 2025 - 2026 academic year, with LCB selected to represent the Yorkshire & the Humber region.
The ambition is for the network of CTEC hubs to partner with other local training providers and employers to improve training standards and train up to 40,000 people in high-demand trades by 2029, tackling construction skills shortages.
Nikki added: “This is an exciting time for LCB. With government backing and the support of our partners, we can start to build
Pickering butcher takes his training to the next level
An award-winning apprentice butcher at a Pickering farm shop is embarking on the next level of his butchery training.
Cameron McNicoll from Cedar barn Farm Shop’s butchery team has enrolled on the Level 3 Advanced
a stronger future for both our students and the UK construction sector.”
The building acquisition was facilitated by Holder & Co, an independent commercial property consultants based in Horsforth. The purchase is the latest boost for LCB’s North Street Campus. A year ago, the site benefitted from an impressive £750k renovation programme, which transformed the campus over eight weeks.
Once refurbished, the newly acquired Melbourne Street building will align North Street Campus with LCB’s modern South Bank Campus, which opened its South Bank 1 building in 2015, following by South
Butchery Apprenticeship at Bishop Burton College near Beverley.
Cameron, who was awarded the prestigious Nicholson Award for his exceptional performance during his Level 2 apprenticeship, will spend the next 18 months honing his knife skills and developing his knowledge of the craft/processing environment. He will also study for a Level 3 Award in Food Safety Supervision, Level 3 Award Health and Safety in the Food Supply Chain Business and Level 3 Award in HACCP.
Of his success his Level 2 college tutor, Michael Sword, said: “Cameron consistently showed a strong work ethic and dedication to both his apprenticeship and his butchery work at Cedar barn. He is a deserving recipient of the Nicholson Award.”
The Award is named after experienced butcher Paul Nicholson, who is a master skilled butcher and leads the apprenticeship team at Bishop Burton College.
Head butcher at Cedar barn, Patrick Donaghy, said: “Cameron is a well-liked and respected member of the team. He works hard to promote the fabulous cuts and specials that the butchery team prepare and is a real asset to our team. We wish him all the best for his Level 3 course.”
Reds10 and Driffield School and Sixth Form launch Construction
T Level to enhance career opportunities
Reds10, a pioneer of industrialised construction, has partnered with Driffield School and Sixth Form and The Talent Foundry,a UKcharity dedicated to improving social mobility for young people, to support the introduction of the Construction T Level into the school’s curriculum as an alternative to A Levels for young people in Driffield and East Riding.
The two-year immersive programme has launched with the official T Level course beginning in October 2027. It is designed to create sustainable pathways into construction careers for local young people, helping to tackle the UK’s construction skills shortage. The programme will mainly be conducted at the school, with industry visits and work experience hosted at Reds10 giving students direct exposure to real-world industrialised construction environments.
Reds10’s Driffield site spans five factory buildings, employs 269 staff members, and is one of the region’s largest local employers with approximately 82% of its workforce living within a 30-mile radius. The company places a strong emphasis on skills development and inclusive employment. Its factory currently supports 16 apprentices through a structured programme led by a full-time mentor and delivered by a dedicated Apprentice Hub focused on joinery training.
This new initiative is designed to build aspiration and position the new T Level as an exciting and accessible post-16 pathway. It will support two parallel routes into the industry: a Professional Pathway through the T Level, and a Vocational Pathway through apprenticeships. A strong advocate for T Levels, Reds10 recognises the limited availability of such courses locally, so this programme has been designed in collaboration with The Talent Foundry and Driffield School and Sixth Form to directly address the gap, while also scaling up the company’s capacity to offer local apprenticeships over the next two years.
Students will be engaged through two cohorts. Cohort A includes students entering Year 10 in September 2025, who will be the first to enrol in the Construction T Level. Cohort B comprises current Year 9 students, who will be introduced to construction earlier through practical workshops that connect STEM subjects with real careers. Both cohorts will receive tailored coaching, immersive experiences, and ongoing support aligned with the school calendar, such as guidance on GCSE options and post-16 pathways. The programme is designed to meet the needs of each student, ensuring meaningful progression into skilled construction careers.
In this collaboration, Reds10 is acting as both funder and employer, The
Talent Foundry acts as facilitator, and Driffield School and Sixth Form serves as the key education partner.
Paul Ruddick, CEO at Reds10, said: “At Reds10, we firmly believe in the importance of creating opportunities for local young people. While demand for apprenticeships in construction is strong, the industry isn’t providing enough apprenticeship opportunities to meet this demand. By employing our own workforce and using our offsite construction model, we can offer consistent, high-quality training and meaningful career pathways. Working with like-minded partners like The Talent Foundry and Driffield School creates accessible routes into fulfilling construction careers that are built on innovation, stability, and real opportunity.”
Jenni Anderson at The Talent Foundry, added: “We believe that working in partnership can unlock opportunity for young people. With Reds10 and Driffield School we will be supporting talented local young people have a clear and supported route into exciting and sustainable careers in construction. Together this programme will dismantle industry barriers and help students to realise their potential, no matter their background.”
Vicky Loftus, headteacher at Driffield School and Sixth Form, commented: “We have a great partnership with Reds10 and have worked closely with them in recent
years to offer a range of careers activities for our students. I am delighted that we have been able to work together to provide such an amazing opportunity for our students at Post-16, expanding our Sixth Form curriculum offer in September 2027 to include a T-Level as well as our wide range of traditional A Levels. We are also thrilled to be working with The Talent Foundry and are looking forward to their first STEM-linked workshops with our Year 9 cohort in
November. We are all excited about the benefits that this partnership can bring to our local community.”Darren Andrews, head of Sixth Form added: “We are excited to be collaborating with The Talent Foundry and Reds10 to expand the opportunities for the young people of Driffield and the surrounding area. This is a unique scheme which aligns perfectly with our desire to equip all students with the skills and experience needed to secure positive future destinations.”
Year 10 Engineering Students Explore Modern Construction at Reds10
Yorkshire Businessman has arrived
Hosted for the YBM team of Debbie Dobson, Gill Laidler and Rob Blackwell by West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce CEO James Mason, more than 70 guests joined us at Uyare rooftop bar and Restaurant for the launch.
James hosted a panel of local respected businessmen, Wayne Topley MD from Cedar Court Hotels group, ex-Leeds United footballer/manager Simon Grayson and Matt Cheshire founder of The Needs Group, who chatted
about their experiences of setting up or running a business in Yorkshire then guests enjoyed drinks, canapes and visited pop up stands from Jo Malone, Loake Shoemaker and Owen Scott gentleman’s tailor.
This event is the first of many that are planned for 2026. There is a brand-new website https://www. yorkshirebusinessman.co.uk and boasts its own magazine as the wellestablished and respected TopicUK business magazine rebrands as Yorkshire Businessman.
The next event is planned for the end of January and anyone interested in coming along can sign up to the new membership on the Yorkshire Businessman website at just £25 per month then each event is free to attend. Members can bring along a new guest to each meeting; these guests must then sign up as a member to continue attending.
For more information email DD@ yorkshirebusinessman.co.uk or editor@yorkshirebusinessman.co.uk
To sign up as a member, visit the website https://yorkshirebusinessman.co.uk
Images with thanks to Roth Read Photography
James with local businessman Simon Hurd
L to R Wayne, Simon, Matt and and panel host James Mason
Legacy meets snooker legend as cue sports cloth manufacturer signs Ken Doherty as ambassador
Yorkshire heritage brand and renowned British manufacturer of premium leisure cloth, Hainsworth Cue Sports Fabrics, has welcomed former 1997 world snooker champion and BBC broadcast commentator Ken Doherty as its first-ever ambassador.
The Irish snooker icon will step into a 12-month ambassador role, with his appointment marking a strategic partnership forged to help grow brand awareness and reinforce Hainsworth’s dedication to quality, precision, and the heritage of cue sports. The alliance will see him representing the brand at major events, supporting product innovation, and promoting Hainsworth Cue Sports Fabric’s commitment to players of all levels.
A celebrated figure in the world of professional snooker, Ken Doherty’s career spans over three decades, marked by his World Championship title, six winning ranking event titles, a 12-year run ranking inside the top eight, and building a respected presence as a
commentator and ambassador of the sport. To this day, Doherty is still the only professional player to win the treble, which includes the World Juniors, the World Amateur, and the World Professional Championships.
Doherty explains, “I’m a traditionalist. I love the history and heritage of the game. Hainsworth Cue Sports Fabrics shares those same values. It’s a company built on tradition and quality, so it’s a great fit for me.
“You can see the detail, hard work and technicality that goes into making the cloth, and it’s improved immensely over the years. That’s the great thing about what’s happening in cue sports around the world – everybody has really upped their game.
“Hainsworth produces three different types of cloth, but the quality across the board is superb. The speed is fantastic. Professionals love a fast cloth because it allows you to manoeuvre the cue ball without forcing the shot. It’s one of the fastest cloths I’ve ever played on.”
Hainsworth has been a trusted name in cue sports fabrics for generations, supplying championship-grade, premium woollen fabrics to some of the most prestigious tournaments, venues, and manufacturers worldwide.
The British textile manufacturer weaves its high-quality snooker and pool tablecloths at AW Hainsworth’s 243-year-old woollen mill in Stanningley, West Yorkshire, combining tradition with innovation to deliver world-class playing surfaces.
The manufacturer creates and supplies a range of graded pool and snooker fabrics to international customers, including professional players, worldleading tournaments and independent fitters.
“Ken Doherty is a true champion and legend of the sport. His integrity and love for the game perfectly align with our values.We are thrilled to welcome him to the AW Hainsworth family and look forward to working together to elevate the game even further,” said Amanda McLaren, Managing Director of AW Hainsworth.
How to prepare for upcoming changes to employment law
The employment law landscape is constantly shifting. The most significant reform in over a decade, the Employment Rights Bill, was published on 10 October 2024, introducing 28 significant reforms to a range of measures. Since then,
the government has released plans for future reform that are set to reshape the law.
The outcome of the Bill remains uncertain, with both the House of Lords and House of Commons yet to agree on the wording following its return to the Lords on 28 October 2025. Key areas
of dispute include provisions for seasonal work, day-one rights to unfair dismissal, and trade union ballot thresholds.
However, once the legislation has been finalised, the Bill will receive Royal Assent, with phased implementation between 2025
and 2027. It is therefore crucial that organisations are prepared to face the Bill, along with its related legislation, with significant changes expected in favour of workplace fairness, employee protections and job security.
What changes can employers expect?
There are a number of significant changes that employers should be prepared for once the Bill is passed.This includes “day-one” statutory rights for paternity, parental leave, and flexible working (including measures to prevent the exploitation of zerohour contract workers) – meaning that employees will be given access to these entitlements from the first day of their employment.
Strengthened protections around pregnancy, maternity and workplace harassment will also be implemented to safeguard employees. The impacts of the Worker Protection Act 2023 increase employers’ duties to prevent harassment from occurring; however, the Bill introduces a new form of employer liability for third-party harassment.
This will mean that an employer will be liable if an employee is harassed by a third party ‘in the course of their employment’, but only if the employer has not taken ‘all reasonable steps’ to prevent the third party from harassing them. These steps will vary depending on the specific circumstances of the employer and the situation, however, ‘reasonable steps’ should include carrying out risk assessments, creating an action plan, revising policies
and reviewing contracts, and training employees. According to the Government’s implementation plan for the Bill, this change is due to come into force in October 2026.
Another imminent change is the extension of tribunal time limits to six months, which gives employers longer to pursue a claim in an employment tribunal. From April 2026, reforms to Statutory Sick Pay will be introduced, removing the three-day waiting period so it is paid from day one of sickness. The lower earnings limit will also be abolished to make it accessible to employees regardless of income. With these changes – amongst others – expected to come into effect imminently, employers must be ready to enact them.
What does this mean for the recruitment market?
The Bill will have a knock-on effect on recruiters, who will need to adapt by implementing more robust processes for temporary workers and ensuring all contractors have stronger rights to shift notice, sick pay, and flexible working requirements.
Employer risk will increase, particularly due to day-one protection against unfair dismissal and a ban on unpaid internships. To mitigate this, employers may consider extending probationary periods, increasing pre-employment screening processes, and relying more on permanent arrangements. With findings from Hays’ 2025 Working Well Report showing that 54% of professionals regularly experience workplace stress, driven primarily by workload and recognition issues, employers must take worker
protections and rights seriously.
Employers also face financial challenges when recruiting. Following the rise in National Minimum Wage to become aligned with a ‘true living wage’ in April 2025, the impact of rising costs will continue to take effect this winter. Many organisations have been forced to reassess headcount, training and investment.
Economic slowdown and increased employer National Insurance contributions have also caused a decline in job vacancy levels, with a 1.3% decrease between July and September 2025.
What
should employers do to prepare?
Whilst the amendments to the Employments Rights Bill have resulted in concern for employers, they should not panic. The Bill has not yet received Royal Assent, so employers still have ample time to review their Handbooks and policies, put new policies and procedures in place, and make strategic decisions about their workplace planning.
To help ease the process, employers should promote a culture where employees feel safe raising concerns and can trust that appropriate action will be taken in the instance of a dispute. This starts with having the right workplace policies and recruitment processes in place.
Get in touch with Chadwick Lawrence’s Employment team to see how they can help you upcoming changes head on.
Postcards from Paris
Luxury stocks have fallen out of fashion. In 2024, the personal luxury goods industry saw its first slowdown in 15 years (outside of the Covid-19 pandemic) as aspirational consumers pulled back on spending. Excessive price rises over the past few years; a lack of innovation and fragile consumer confidence have all played a part.
Pricing
Excessive price increases remain a hot topic of conversation amongst investors. The price of luxury goods has grown between 5%-7% over the past 50 years on a like-for-like basis, outpacing inflation on average. However, this trend was further exacerbated by the post-Covid YOLO* boom, with prices of key luxury icons such as the Chanel 11.12 and Lady Dior up 100% and 76% respectively between 2019 and 2025. With the realisation that we are going to live much longer, along with disposable income not keeping pace, many of the aspirational consumers who fuelled the post-Covid growth are now questioning the perceived value of these goods.
Even brands such as Chanel and Dior which are deemed as highly desirable, are finding that there is
Mamta-Valechha,Equity Research Analyst
a limit to their pricing ambitions. After all, the quality improvement of the products in many cases has not been proportionate with the p rice increases.
But what is the solution? After all, a true luxury brand never discounts.
Luxury brands also cannot simply rely on the top 2% of the income cohort, otherwise they are all fighting for the same slice of the pie. To grow their addressable market, leading brands need to attract the middle to upper middle- income cohort.
For the most part, brands are focusing their efforts on rebalancing their offerings and pricing architecture by introducing entry level products with lower selling prices and refocusing on product innovation, albeit noting, it will take t ime to correct.
Product innovation and crea tivity lacking
Many brands echo the view that the industry currently lacks the novelty and innovation needed to excite the consumer and therefore, in theory, prompt them to spend more. With many macroeconomic factors pressuring consumers’ ability to spend, brands are finding it difficult to justify purchasing from a stale product line that fails to add
freshness to a wardrobe already filled with luxury purchases. As a result, many luxury brands are making investments to rejuvenate their product ranges whether that be in the form of introducing novelties, refreshing classic lines, or having brought in new creative direction to invigorate the offering (as evidenced by the unprecedented number of creative designer changes) . Global travel
Global travel has been very important for the luxury sector, with around 35%-40% of spending taking place offshore. There is of course a feel-good factor when you are travelling, and this rush of endorphins can lead to increased spending. But there is also another key reason for this offshore spend — price differentials across regions. Most luxury brands, apart from Cartier and Chanel, tend to have a pricing gap between Europe and elsewhere in the world. This means it is more expensive to buy a luxury handbag in Japan versus in Europe, and even more expensive to buy from the US or China. European luxury companies are consequently increasingly exposed to offshore spending by Chinese nationals, as well as Americans.
*YOLO is an acronym that stands for “you o nly live once”.
Wealth effect
Tourist spend by Chinese and Americans are however softening. The US cohort in Europe has been a driver of spend over the past 12-18 months, and Chinese spend in Japan
had reached very high levels over the past few quarters. For American nationals in the upper income cohort, their net wealth, and thus propensity to spend, is linked to the US dollar and the US stock market. While the US stock market has recovered since ‘Liberation Day’, the US dollar remains weak. Similarly in the east, Chinese nationals link their wealth against the strength of the Chinese yuan and the property market. With the latter remaining under pressure, household wealth and sentiment are feeling the strain.
Th en came Laopu…
Aside from pricing, Laopu has been the talk of the town. Founded in Beijing in 2009, Laopu is a Chinese jewellery brand and in its short history has grown rapidly, appealing to a segment of the Chinese luxury market seeking culturally relevant and high-end gold jewellery. Laopu’s product offering encompasses traditional Chinese heritage, capitalising on the ‘guochao’ or ‘Chinese pride’ sentiment currently prevalent among local consumers. Part of the appeal also lies in the Buddhist aesthetics of the products, which customers feel ‘bring inner peace’ as well as good luck. Additionally, Laopu exclusively uses 24-karat gold and gemstones, which is traditional for that region and contrasts with western brands known for using
18-karat gold. And with gold prices rising significantly in recent years, this has disproportionately favoured demand for La opu’s products.
In line with deteriorating consumer sentiment over the last 12-18 months, many consumers in China (particularly the aspirational cohort) have opted to trade down their luxury purchases and focus more on value. Laopu sits at the sweet spot of being far more premium than a mass market brand but more affordable than most luxury brands, and customers can still be expected to be served in a luxurious environment. How disruptive could Laopu’s growth be to the likes of Cartier, Van Cleef or Bulgari, is a key question on investors’ minds. While there is definitely an overlap between customers and store locations between the luxury branded jewellers and Laopu, many experts noted European brands are likely inherently protected, given the high barriers to entry in the branded jewellery industry of heritage and provenance – albeit acknowledging it is still early days at Laopu.
Contact a member of the team for more information or to book a complimentary consultation. E: enquires@quiltercheviot. com T: +44 1135 133933 W: quiltercheviot.com
Quilter Cheviot and Quilter Cheviot Investment Management are trading names of Quilter Cheviot Limited, Quilter Cheviot International Limited and Quilter Cheviot Europe Limited. Quilter Cheviot International is a trading name of Quilter Cheviot International Limited. Quilter Cheviot Limited is registered in England and Wales with number 01923571, registered office at Senator House, 85 Queen Victoria Street, London, EC4V 4AB. Quilter Cheviot Limited is a member of the London Stock Exchange, authorised and regulated by the UK Financial Conduct Authority and as an approved Financial Services Provider by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority in South Africa. You must consider the risks. The value of investments and the income from them can decline, you may not get back what you invest This is a marketing communication. Approver: Quilter Cheviot, 13 August 2025
A new guy in town...
Will Nicol – group head chef –Pemberleys Bar & Grill, Lofthouse.
From Ayr to the Michelin Stars, the making of a modern chef.
Some chefs arrive in the kitchen by accident; others stride in with a purpose. For this chef, the journey began not at a university campus but at a humble catering college in Ayr, ‘Just old-fashioned training’ as he likes to call it. Yet from those modest beginnings came a career that would cross continents, earn handshakes from culinary royalty and shape the kind of chef who still insists he’s ‘always training’.
A four mile walk that changed everything
Wills first job wasn’t glamorous, a YTS placement with a
commercial catering company offered experience but not the spark, however, that came soon after, at Chapelton House near Kilmarnock. ‘I only got the job because I walked for four miles for the interview’, he recalls. It was a small test of perseverance that would lead to a career built on grit, ambition and a willingness to go the distance. literally!
As a child, Will dreamt not of kitchens and copper pans but the Navy. I went along very excited for the interview. However, it wasn’t to be… I didn’t have the physique; I was too small’ he laughs! Life, however, has a way of redirecting passion that he ultimately found in professional kitchens around the world.
‘Three years’ he says, ‘three years of intensive foundational
training’ following me asking the question how long was his training, and he told me the truth ‘I’m always training’.
Australia bound, with a position at Melbourne’s Hyatt Hotel and then a move to Belfast and a fabulous opportunity to work under celebrity chef, Paul Rankin. Belfast also brought one of Wills most cherished memories, meeting Michel Roux. ‘He shook my hand and told me how great I was and how valuable my qualities were’. Roux believed in him so deeply that he actually paid for him to travel to France, to the Martinez in Cannes, an experience that would shape his craft with precision and the elegance of French cuisine.
A day in Wills life, never the same twice.
Today, his days begin early with breakfast, and a daily dog walk before heading to Pemberleys Restaurant for a 9am start. From there, its full immersion, team meetings, prepping, planning, purchasing, health & safety, new menu discussions along with upcoming event planning. ‘No two days are the same’ he says. He’s as involved in the operational side of the business as he is in the Kitchen, a role that Will relishes and proving that
Fact File
Tell us about your family?
I have a wife, Carole, and a son, Liam who’s 19 and plays in a band.
What car do you drive?
I’m currently driving a hybrid Hyundai Kona
What do you do in your leisure time?
I like to eat out, sampling new restaurants, spending time with the family and attending music gigs to watch my son.
What’s your favourite food and drink?
I have no favourites, I’d have to say anything that I’ve not tasted before, I love trying new dishes! My favourite drink would have to be a pint of Guiness!
What’s your favourite restaurant?
The Jean George – below Trump Tower in New York, it’s simply amazing. My favourite
as a modern chef he must be both culinary artist and strategic operator.
When it comes to the future, he keeps his approach refreshingly grounded. ‘I take every day as it comes’ he said. Will thrives on daily challenges and draws inspiration from the visionary owners he works with. ‘I’m so very lucky to work with the best, true leaders’ he says, who push boundaries and keep creativity alive.
Advise to his younger self.
‘Have the courage to open my own business’. It’s the kind of advice that comes only with hindsight, and perhaps a hint to the next generation of chefs who might second guess their own bold ideas.
If he could do it again.
Would he change anything? Just one thing. ‘I would have perhaps remained at my first job for a longer period. Many opportunities came up after I left! It’s a reminder that timing, patience, and a bit of luck play significant roles in every chef’s journey.
in the UK would have to be any of the Angela Hartnet restaurants, she’s an incredible chef, based in London, Angela worked alongside Gordan Ramsey as his sous chef.
Where do you like to go on holiday?
Most definitely Cairnes in Australia, amazing place.
Where is your favourite place in Yorkshire?
York, I worked there a long time, I just love how vibrant and busy it is and there is so much to see and do!
What’s your favourite gadget?
That would have to be my TV remote – when I get the chance to sit down and chill. What couldn’t you live without?
Spotify – to keep up with my son’s music, so that I can have a conversation with him!!
Your Tr usted Tax Expert
At Parsons, Chartered Accountants our tax team offers a broad range of corporate and personal tax services, providing expert advice tailored to each client.
From day-to - day compliance to long-term strategic planning, we help businesses and individuals navigate the ever- changing world of tax
Whether it’s exit or succession planning, corporate restructuring, or simply the reassurance of technical guidance, our friendly and knowledgeable team is always on hand to help. We combine technical expertise with a practical, downto - earth approach, ensuring our clients receive clear, actionable advice that supports their goals
Our team works with clients across Yorkshire and beyond, from ambitious startups to established organisations and high-net-worth individuals. We pride ourselves on building strong, lasting relationships based on trust, clarity, and exceptional service
At Parsons, we believe in more than just meeting compliance requirements — we’re here to add value, provide peace of mind, and help our clients make informed financial decisions that support their future success.
“Thank you for all your work and clear explanations. Your information and research concerning our current Inheritance Tax position as well as the mitigation options available to us have genuinely improved our understanding of my mum’s finances and helped her commit to a path to reduce her estate ” A recent client testimonial in relation to a succession planning exercise
Daniel Andreca Tax Director
Ammaarah Patel Business Services and Tax Executive
James Covell Business Services and Tax Associate
Yorkshire Farming Conference launched at Great Yorkshire Showground
Tickets are now on sale for the first-ever Yorkshire Farming Conference, a brand-new event to be held in January by the organisers of the Great Yorkshire Show.
The conference on Wednesday 28 January will be held at the Great Yorkshire Events Centre at the Great Yorkshire Showground from 9am to 5pm, organised and hosted by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society.
Agriculture’s big topics will be in the spotlight at the event during a series of talks and workshops as the Society’s farming networks collaborate to deliver a landmark event for the first time.
The conference theme is ‘Every Field, Every Farmer’ to reflect its inclusive spirit. Talks will be pitched for everyone in farming regardless of the size of their businesses or how long they have been in the industry. Farmers attending the conference will be able to claim BASIS and NroSo (CPD) points.
Allister Nixon, CEO of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society said: “This is an invitation to everyone who works in
farming and allied industries to join us for a day of inspiration, insight and connection. The Yorkshire Farming Conference will celebrate and strengthen the future of farming across Yorkshire and beyond by bringing people together to discuss ideas, trends and best practice that can shape farm business decisions.”
Dairy farmer Rachel Coates, show director said: “This is going to be another brilliant event at the Great Yorkshire Showground, specifically for farmers and others in the industry. It is fantastic to see all the good work that the Yorkshire Agricultural Society does across its farming networks brought together in this way.”
The Yorkshire Agricultural Society funds and coordinates the work of farming networks – Future Farmers of Yorkshire, Farmer Scientist Network, Yorkshire Rural Support Network, Women In Farming Network and Yorkshire Food, Farming and Rural Network – to support farmers and champion agriculture.
Together, these networks have collaborated with the Yorkshire Agricultural Society on a conference programme which features a trade show, networking opportunities and in-depth discussion and insight across topical industry issues. Topics include farming smarter, policy implications and strengthening supply chains, with industry leaders and innovators helping to unpick key challenges and opportunities across farming sectors.
The conference schedule has been put together in the spirit of celebrating the people, families and businesses behind British farming and there will be sessions looking at the power of mentorship, the world of livestock showing and wellbeing support.
For the first time in one place, the conference will showcase the breadth of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society’s work, from supporting education and development, and promoting innovation, to helping Yorkshire farmers meet challenges and seize opportunities.
Tickets for the Yorkshire Farming Conference are available to purchase online in advance only and are priced £25 + VAT. A discount is available for group bookings of 10 or more. To buy tickets, for more details and upcoming announcements about the conference line-up, visit yorkshirefarmingconference.co.uk.
Sports mad Richard is the top of his game
Last edition, we introduced a new column in our sister magazine written for us by Richard Hill, the founding director of Iveridge Hall Spa in Leeds. Since opening its doors in 2010, Iveridge Hall has become one of the country’s premier health and wellbeing centres offering a wide range of services, all delivered from one place.
Each edition of Yorkshire Businessman will now also feature Richard who shares with us tips on training, staying healthy and keeping well.
We caught up with Richard recently to find out a little more about him and here’s what he told us.
“Growing up, I wanted to be a footballer, DJ and personal trainer, achieving all three with laser focus at just 14 years old, so it was inevitable I would go into sport as a career. I attended Concord College, West Virginia, USA to study sports science while playing soccer for the college on a scholarship.”
Sport wasn’t his first job though, this was a paper boy, starting on 50p per day
delivering 21 newspapers on his BMX bike at 6am six days a week for £3. “It was crazy, but it taught me discipline of getting up early every morning for work,” he said. “I also tried my hand at being a waiter too for a while.”
Iveridge Hall Health Club opened its doors in 2010. “It wasn’t overly
FACT FILE:
Wife / partner name:
Laura
Children (if any):
Matilda 17, Martha 15 and Tommy 6
What car do you drive?
Audi Q5
What do you do in your leisure time?
Fishing, Boxing, Socialising.
Where is your favourite restaurant?
Salute in Rothwell.
What is your favourite food and drink?
Street Thai or Indian. Love a nice Gin or Malbec when it’s cold
Where is your favourite holiday destination?
difficult setting up the business, if anything it was challenging and exciting,” he explained. “The business is now almost 16 years old, but it started before that really with three years in the planning stages. I always wanted to open a results-based health club and change the way that gyms operate. At the time of opening, no one had ever run a results-based club, now they seem to be everywhere.
“I love every aspect of what I do, facing each day as it comes. The day normally starts with the school run at 7.30am. This is followed by a personal training client at 9am, a general class at 9.45 followed by admin until around 2pm. After a break its back for more personal training and classes, yes, at 50 years old, I am still taking classes! I only do 5 a week now compared to 25 when we first opened,” he laughed.
Italy or Traditional Spain. Do like Barbados though to relax.
Where is your favourite place in Yorkshire?
Helmsley or Harrogate are lovely.
What is your favourite gadget?
Must be my retro games console. Can’t beat a quick game of Tekken.
What couldn’t you live without? My wife and kids. They are there for me when things get tough and I need them to support me.
If this was a gadget related question, then definitely my phone. I need this for pretty much everything now which is sad but true.
“I am currently working on getting our SPA garden busier each month and we have plans to open four paddle tennis courts in July 2026, a sport that is becoming very popular, I expect this will take up a lot of my time.
My advice to anyone starting out would be to not put too much pressure on yourself to make things work as this causes stress and mistakes within the team. Let things happen naturally with a clearer and more constructive mindset. If I were starting again, I would bring more people into different areas of the business. In the early days, I tried to do everything including sales and marketing and burnt myself out
New appointment for Sigma
International retail solutions provider, Sigma, is delighted to announce the appointment of Dan White as display director.
With over 20 years’ experience in the industry, White brings a wealth of expertise across retail fixtures, display delivery, and client-focused project execution. Having worked directly in retail before joining Swedish company, ITAB, White developed a deep understanding of the operational realities and customer-facing challenges that retailers encounter every day.
During his 16 years at ITAB, he held several senior leadership positions - including retail director, commercial director, and most recently, vice president Interiors for the UK and Baltics. He has led major projects for some of the UK’s leading retailers,
including Morrisons, Co-op and ASDA and is widely recognised by his commercial insight, operational leadership, and practical approach - qualities that will further strengthen Sigma’s operations and support its continued growth.
With a proven record of increasing turnover, achieving KPIs, and delivering strategic projects within fixed timelines, White is also known for his ability to develop people, optimise operations, and build long-lasting customer relationships founded on trust and shared goals.
Commenting on his appointment, Dan said, “I’m thrilled to be joining
Sigma and building on the great reputation the display division has within its existing valued client base. I’m passionate about building strong relationships and delivering outstanding innovation, customer service and value for new and existing clients. I’m excited to get started and to demonstrate our expertise and capabilities not only within the display division but also as part of the wider Sigma group.
David Dignam, group CEO at Sigma said, “I would like to extend a warm welcome to Dan. His exceptional record and reputation precede him. What particularly impressed me is Dan’s proven ability to build and nurture genuine, long-term relations hips with clients - relationships built on trust, collaboration, and shared success. His understanding of retail from both the client and supplier perspective, coupled with his strong leadership and delivery focus, make him an outstanding addition to the Sigma team. I’m confident he will play a vital role in our continued success.”
One of Britain’s oldest family-run businesses embraces a digital future
Huddersfield’s historic Brooke’s Mill has unveiled a new brand identity and digital marketing strategy, marking the next chapter in its evolution from a centuries-old textile mill into one of Yorkshire’s most successful business communities.
Owned by John Brooke and Sons, the company has been trading since 1541 and is thought to be one of Britain’s oldest family-run businesses.
The former mill complex played a significant part in the Huddersfield wool textile industry for nearly 200 years.
Over the past four decades, the Grade II listed landmark in Armitage Bridge has revolutionised from its industrial past into a modern workspace, home to more than 40 businesses and 230 employees.
Now in its fifteenth generation of family ownership, the business is led by
managing director Mark Brooke, who continues his family’s commitment to regenerating the historic site while preparing it for the future.
“Brooke’s Mill has always been about progress,” said Mark. “For nearly five centuries, our family has adapted to change while respecting our heritage.
“This rebrand and our renewed digital presence are about celebrating legacy and creating new opportunities for the next generation of businesses to grow and thrive.”
As part of its digital evolution, Brooke’s Mill has partnered with Honley’s Social Progress to grow
its online presence and share the stories of the businesses that call the site home with local, regional and wider audiences.
“Brooke’s Mill is one of Huddersfield’s hidden gems. Steeped in history, but full of forward-thinking businesses,” said Janet Bebb, Director of Social Progress. “We’re excited to help share their story online and support their growing digital community.”
The rebrand was developed through a collaboration of local businesses, including NWDI, Honley, The Origami Fox, Brooke’s Mill, The Purpose Designer, Holmfirth and KnownAim, Slaithwaite, who were involved in creating the new brand identity, website and digitalised version of the Brooke family crest.
The mill’s story has also been captured
Image - Dave Hackney of The Digital Cortex.
through striking new drone footage by The Digital Cortex, showcasing the site’s impressive architecture, historic clock tower and scenic surroundings.
Today, Brooke’s Mill is home to an eclectic mix of enterprises, from film studios, art galleries and dance schools to professional services, education providers and the awardwinning Sons of the North cafe.
The site’s flexible licence arrangements, free parking and fast broadband make it an attractive base for new and established businesses.
Estate manager James Bailey added: “The Brooke family remain committed to sustainability, community wellbeing, and protecting local wildlife. Plans include beehives, cycle storage and initiatives to encourage greener commuting, as well as continued investment in the preservation and restoration of this historic site.”
Home to protected species including the white clawed crayfish, heron and kingfisher, Brooke’s Mill works with local charities on conservation and restoration projects.
The estate hosts over 40 community events each year, blending heritage and innovation to create a unique environment where businesses and nature thrive side by side.
As Brooke’s Mill approaches its 500th anniversary in 2041, the focus remains clear. To preserve its proud heritage while championing innovation, sustainability and collaboration for generations to come.
Kirklees College and Myton Food Group celebrate new training partnership
Kirklees College recently welcomed its first cohort of Level 3 Food and Drink Manufacturing apprentices from Myton Food Group, as part of the two organisation’s new training partnership.
The college’s apprenticeship programme equips learners with core principles and practical skills of Food and Drink Maintenance Engineering. This includes mechanical, electrical, automation and process control systems, with a strong focus on continuous improvement and quality management in the food industry.
The Level 3 apprentices are training at the college’s multi-million-pound Process Manufacturing Centre in Huddersfield, which offers industrystandard equipment and was the first centre of its kind to offer Food and Drink manufacturing apprenticeships in Northern England.
The partnership between the two organisations extends beyond the level 3 programme. Kirklees College will also be progressing Level 4 apprentices to their Higher National Certificate in Engineering, which is a designated Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) and has been designed in alignment with national skills needs. Current staff at Myton Food Group will also be undertaking upskilling courses with the college and will benefit from the
facilities and expert tutoring available at the Process Manufacturing Centre.
Paul Edwards, head of apprenticeships and business development at Kirklees College said: “We are proud and excited to be working with Myton Food Group, a local giant in the food industry. This partnership will create opportunities for local people looking to join an exciting industry at the forefront of engineering innovation.“Kirklees College prides itself on being a first-choice provider in our region for Process Manufacturing, Engineering, Supply Chain and Warehousing apprenticeships and training, and we are delighted to welcome Myton Food Group to our vast network of employer partners in these sectors.”
Aaron Storey, group engineering manager at Myton Food Group, said: “We’re excited to be partnering with Kirklees College for our next cohort of engineering apprentices. Our Engineering Apprenticeship Programme is critical in ensuring we have the technical skills and knowledge required in our sites moving forward. The facilities at the Kirklees campus provide the opportunity to further improve our programme and we look forward to building a strong partnership together.”
Schofield Sweeney continues growth
A raft of senior appointments and newapprenticesatYorkshire law firm Schofield Sweeney has further enhanced its growth in both size and service offerings.
The firm has recruited six senior team members and taken on four new Solicitor Apprentices, taking the firm’s total headcount to 178 and allowing it to meet demand for additional services.
The new senior recruits will work across key practice areas including Private Wealth, Insolvency, Contentious Probate, Debt Recovery, and Property Litigation, demonstrating the firm’s focus on delivering expert commercial legal services across its client base.
Restructuring and Insolvency Gillian Kaufman, joins as a director. Previously at Irwin Mitchell, Gillian specialises in corporate recovery and insolvency.
Private Wealth and Succession - Kim Hammond, joins as an associate in the team, specialising in private client work in estate planning.
Debt Recovery - Dale Fawcett, joins the firm as head of the debt recovery department. With 18 years’ experience, Dale is driven by delivering results through strategic client-focused solutions.
Property Litigation - The team has been boosted by the appointments of Claire James, as director, and Kimberly Tao Le, as solicitor,
both from Pinsent Masons. Claire specialises in Vacant Possession and Right of Light cases, while Kimberly has a strong interest in contentious work.
Contentious Probate - Julia Fenton, has joined the expanding team as solicitor, specialising in all aspects of estate and trust disputes.
Gillian Kaufman, director in Insolvency, said: “Schofield Sweeney team has a strong reputation in the region. The Insolvency team is growing in terms of reputation and size and I’m looking forward to working with the very friendly and welcoming team.”
Dale Fawcett, head of debt recovery, joins Schofield Sweeney from Goldsmith Bowers, where he led the development and delivery of tailored debt recovery solutions. He said: “I was drawn to Schofield Sweeney for its strong brand presence and scale. It’s an exciting time for the firm and I’m looking forward to expanding our specialist debt recovery offering and delivering valuable services to clients.”
Graham Sweeney, managing partner at Schofield Sweeney, said: “These appointments mark significant growth for Schofield Sweeney as we continue to invest in top-tier talent to deliver outstanding service and value to our clients.
“We’re delighted to welcome all the senior recruits and new apprentices and we look forward to further enhancing our service offering across departments such as insolvency and debt recovery and embracing new opportunities. As a firm, we’ve also always been committed to supporting young talent, and we’re excited to see our apprentices grow and develop both professionally and personally.”
L-R : Kimberly Thao Le, Emily Garner, Aimee Firth, Libby Daniels, Julia Fenton, Esme Ghafoor, Kim Hammond, Claire James, Dale Fawcett
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From the roar of the crowd to losing mum
When John McCombe pulled on a Huddersfield Townshirtatjust 10yearsold,he thought he’dmade it. The dream was real. A career in professional football.Stadium lights and the roarof thousands.
But the day that defined him came years later, far from the pitch. After deep personal loss, burnout, and the realisation that success means nothing if you’re not living the life you want.
Today, the dad of two helps people build a life that works for them, not against them.
John grew up in the former mining village of South Elmsall, Wakefield, developing a strong sense of community and the value of hard work in a tight-knit family. His dad, Paul, fixes factory sewing machines in Leeds, and for over 30 years, his mum, Jackie, was head cook in a local nursing home.
At age 10, John signed for Huddersfield Town, debuting at 17 years old, before playing for Hereford United, Port Vale, Mansfield, York City, Macclesfield, Chester, Harrogate Town, and
In 2014, alongside his then business partner, football manager and former professional player David McGurk, John also co-founded Pro Player Football Academy. One of the first of its kind, it bridged the gap between grassroots football and professional academies. The academy thrived, even franchising, before John and David sold the business last year.
“Football gave me the adrenaline,” said John. “The
academy felt safe and comfortable. It showed me that resilience and determination can build a business with value. One that I could successfully exit.”
Those lessons proved vital when John faced the toughest chapter of his life.
In 2020, John’s world stopped when his mum was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer and died just two weeks later. At the same time, his dad faced life-saving lung surgery. And football, the game that was so much a part of John’s life, came to a standstill as the COVID-19 pandemic hit.
“I lost my mum and the sport I loved,” said John. “I couldn’t afford to lose my dad as well. It made me realise life’s too short to spend it on things that don’t make you happy.”
When the world fell silent in lockdown, John channelled his grief into action.
In the early hours, as he delivered groceries through the silent, sleepy streets of Leeds for sustainable delivery company The Modern Milkman, a new idea began to take shape.
Spotting a gap in the soaring demand for home delivery, John and his brother, former professional footballer Jamie, of Harrogate, launched Yorkshire-based logistics firm JPM Logistics.
Starting with just one van and nine customers on their first night, they grew to 60 vans across Yorkshire and the Northeast, turning over £2.2 million before selling the business in 2022.
But the pace took its toll. “I’d missed weddings and birthdays during my football career. I no longer wanted to
miss my daughters’ school drop-offs, plays, and childhood moments. The demand for home delivery had soared, but I was exhausted.
“I needed a life we could enjoy as a family, not one dictated by work.”
No matter the setback, John has never stood still, always looking for opportunities while holding on to the family values that shaped him.]
“Each chapter taught me something new. How to build, how to lead, and how to help others succeed.”
Today, John runs McCombe & Co Financial Planning, a partner practice of St James’s Place, the UK’s largest wealth management company.
Based in West Yorkshire, he works with business owners, professionals and families, helping them plan not just for their money, but for the life they want to live. Unlike many advisors who focus mainly on products and pensions, John uses his personal experience in building and selling businesses to help his clients, especially fellow business owners.
His approach combines financial planning with education, helping people understand behaviours around money, building better financial habits, and changing perceptions of what financial advice really means.
“It’s not just about investments or retirement pots,” John explained. “It’s about making sure the right money is in the right place at the right time. True financial planning is about relationships, understanding people, and coaching them to make good decisions for the long term.”
As a dad, John understands the pressures of balancing work, family, and financial responsibilities. That’s why his first step is always giving people the chance to talk openly about their goals before making any decisions.
And he hopes to inspire the next generation, encouraging young people to see financial planning as a way of creating freedom and opportunity, not restriction.
“Football taught me discipline, business taught me resilience, and losing my mum and nearly my dad taught me what really matters in life,” said John. “Now I help people plan for a future they’re excited about, not just one they can or can’t afford.”
Image Supplied by Paul Swift Photography.
Hoisting the colours for an international spectacle on the coast event for tourism
Sensational sea battle on the countdown for 250th commemoration
It’s time to hoist the colours as the countdown steps up for the Yorkshire coast to be at the centre of an international commemoration that links Britain, America and France.
A tourism and heritage fanfare is anticipated as wideranging preparations are underway to mark a mighty 1779 sea battle between the
French-donated Bonhomme Richard 42-gun frigate led the fighting for America against the HMS navy guns the Serapis and Whitby-built Countess of Scarborough.
Here, organisers recap on the latest stage in the build-up to the 250th anniversary, with the restoration of a landmark that identifies the location
of the cannon-fire inferno.
By Kim and James Hodgson
Many people who have visited Flamborough Head over the years may have walked right past the man-made feature of a ‘toposcope’ and not noticed it or wondered what it was - and why it was there.
Toposcopes commemorate
HMS Serapis
historical events and typically feature a plate identifying landmarks, with compass points. The Flamborough toposcope between Filey and Bridlington points directly north and is positioned just east of the Greenwich meridian line.
It was originally put in place to commemorate the Battle of Flamborough Head between the fledgling US navy and the heavy guns of the Royal Navy, on 23 September 1779 during the American War for Independence.
This fierce battle took the lives of more than 300 men and boys as hundreds of people watched from the cliffs – and recorded in an eyewitness account from as far north as Scarborough, where a merchant fleet of 40-plus ships escaped to safety under the guns of Scarborough Castle.
The fleet was carrying cargo from the Baltic including timber for ship masts and iron ore for cannons to advance the British war effort during the American Revolutionary War.
The battle is well-known in US naval history and is taught to all cadets at the US Naval Academy in Annapolis as a victory by their “founding father” John Paul Jones who led the Franco-American squadron.
The mission of the two Navy escort ships was to protect the convoy’s valuable cargo (insured for £600,000, equivalent today to £120m) and which was destined for British ports. Because of the public’s expectation and cavalier attitudes of the time, its significance has faded despite Captain Pearson of the Serapis losing his ship to John Paul Jones; Pearson was knighted
for his efforts in saving the convoy and its cargo.
A dedicated team of people under the flag of the charitable organisation Yorkshire Coast 1779 is working to change the narrative and focus on the relationship with the US that has been built on since the battle. It was established in 2020 to raise awareness of the battle, encouraging pride in local heritage and promoting tourism along the coast.
The original toposcope was created by local craftsmen Harold Dodgson, Tommy Freeman and Jack Cowling on behalf of Bridlington Corporation
and was unveiled by US Navy Rear Admiral Robert W. Cavenagh on September 23 1959.
The newly-refurbished toposcope was designed to be more accessible by local draughtsman James Lowery and built by Wayne Silverwood of Filey.
It was unveiled on the 246th anniversary of the battle by the Deputy Lord-Lieutenant of East Yorkshire, Col. David Fuller and Margaret Hicks-Clarke who chairs Yorkshire Coast 1779 and shared the story of the battle. Also attending were Michael Rice, High Sheriff of East Yorkshire, Liam Dealtry, who chairs East Riding of Yorkshire Council, plus Bridlington and Filey mayors and retired US Navy Commander Jim Poole, a supporter of the group.
The refurbishment, including the design by James Lowery carried out by local tradesman Wayne Silverwood, was funded by Yorkshire Coast BID.
An information panel telling the story of the dramatic battle is to be installed, funded by Do It for
The 1779 battle
East Yorkshire. It will be a focal point for the planned Yorkshire Coast 1779 Heritage Trail from Bridlington to Scarborough and which will be ready for the 250th anniversary in 2029.
The toposcope is also featured on the group’s annual railway poster, sponsored by Yorkshire Coast Community Railway Partnership, and is updated and displayed each year in railway stations along the coast.
The group is now beginning the preparations in earnest for a planned international maritime festival,F
Toposcope unveiling group
The new plaque commemorating the 1779 sea battle
What was the sea battle about ..?
The Battle of Flamborough Head took place on September 23 1779 during the American War of Independence.
France had already joined the war against Britain and the fledgling Continental Navy of America’s 13 colonies was for the first time able to take the fight to England’s coast.
A squadron of five French and American ships with a combined complement of 130 guns and 1,000 men left France on August 14 1779 to harass and attack shipping and especially trade and supplies for Britain.
The squadron was led by Scottish-born John Paul Jones aboard the Bonhomme Richard. Almost 100 years later, Jones would be credited as the ‘Founding Father’ of the US Navy and his body interned in a marble sanctum in the Crypt of the Naval Academy Chapel in Annapolis, Maryland.
Unknown to Jones at the time, a large merchant fleet, laden with essential supplies for the British war effort had left Elsinore in Denmark on September 1 1779 under the escort of HMS Serapis, a 44-gun frigate under Captain Richard Pearson, and The Countess of Scarborough, a converted 22-gun sloop built in Whitby, under Captain Richard Piercy.
Having sailed from France and around the coast of Ireland and Scotland in a northerly direction, the enemy squadron led by Jones was sighted from Scarborough Castle on Monday September 20 1779, heading south.
A red flag was hoisted at the castle to warn all shipping in the area. Three days later, the merchant fleet and its Royal Navy escorts arrived off Whitby and proceeded to sail south.
with more plans to be unveiled for what will boost the coast’s reputation as a major focus of heritage and tourism.
Working group members of Yorkshire Coast 1779 David
The bailiffs of Scarborough, Messrs William Porrett and Thomas Haggitt, sent a letter by boat to Captain Pearson to warn him that the hostile squadron was nearby.
The fleet, which by this time was approaching Filey Brigg, was immediately ordered by Pearson to turn north and take refuge under Scarborough Castle and the protection afforded by the South Steel Gun Battery above the harbour.
The ensuing encounter, in which the two British ships were outnumbered and outgunned two-toone, is regarded by most Americans as one of their finest naval victories.
Although Jones and his squadron of four ships captured both HMS Serapis and The Countess of Scarborough following a long and bloody battle (between 300-400 men were killed or wounded) he failed to capture or destroy any of the merchant fleet of 41 ships – and his own ship, the Bonhomme Richard, sank ablaze somewhere off Filey Bay in flames - but he forced the surrender of both British ships after a point-blank struggle.
By putting themselves between the enemy squadron and the merchant fleet, the Royal Navy escorts had done their duty and saved the day. Captains Pearson and Piercy were awarded the Freedom of the Borough of Scarborough, showered with gifts by grateful insurance companies, and later knighted.
But the name of John Paul Jones lives on – to inspire US naval cadets and at many locations, including the USS Midway Museum in San Diego where his image and refusal to surrender adorns the entrance in a large mural, seen by a million people each year.
Newton and Paul Riley drove to Duror, near Fort William, Scotland to retrieve two stunning model ships of the sea battle’s two key ships, the Bonhomme Richard and HMS Serapis created by John Wade, previously of Flamborough Head.
They met with John’s widow Jennifer, who on behalf of her family, have permanently loaned us the model ships, and which have been on display for events held at the Filey Sea Cadets base.
By day coffee and ciabatta … and quality dining eveningsSaturday
good dining by Rob Porter
An innovative cafe-bar on the Yorkshire coast is bringing together independent talent fromacross the regionunderonecollaborative roof.
Grind & Tonic supports self-employed people in the hospitality and creative industries. During the day it operates as a relaxed coffee shop, open Wednesday to Saturday, 10am–4pm, serving fresh ciabattas, homemade soups and antipasti.
… And on Saturday evenings, it
transforms into The Green Room Dining, a pop-up restaurant led by the culinary talent of chef Rob Porter, offering an intimate dining experience that showcases local produce and creativity.
Located on Queen Street in Scarborough, the venture has been
unveiled by Yorkshire in Business, Scarborough’s enterprise agency which is celebrating more than 40 years of helping entrepreneurs start, grow and thrive.
Following the success of other Yorkshire in Business enterprises Explore indie and Grind Coffee Shop on St Nicholas Street, and which opened four years ago as a hub for local independent sellers, this new venture marks an exciting evolution.
“At Explore Indie, we support around 50 small makers each year to showcase and sell their products,” said Jenn Crowther, chief executive of Yorkshire in Business.
“Now, with Grind & Tonic, we have a new opportunity to support an even wider range of self-employed and emerging businesses.”
Grind & Tonic has been built around a unique model — multiple small businesses operating independently while sharing one inspiring space.
It is calling out to pop-up chefs, cocktail makers, and emerging musicians who’d like to collaborate and bring their own flavour of creativity to the venue.
Scarborough-born chef Rob Porter has been at the heart of the town’s restaurant scene for nearly two decades.
After building his skills in Michelinstarred kitchens, including time at the renowned Longueville Manor in Jersey, Rob returned home with a clear ambition: to open a small, ingredientled restaurant that showcased the best of Yorkshire and the coast.
He launched the popular Green Room Restaurant on Victoria Road in 2006, taking on the twin roles of
Rob Porter, new venture in Scarborough at Grind and Tonic
chef and proprietor. Under Rob’s cooking and leadership, he made it one of Scarborough’s go-to dining destinations, drawing a loyal local following as well as visitors to the town.
He has represented the restaurant at regional food festivals and cookery demonstrations, further raising the profile of Scarborough’s food scene across Yorkshire, based on his strong reputation for modern British cooking, seasonal menus and local produce. He was regularly singled out in reviews for its creative dishes, warm welcome and intimate bistro feel.
“Grind & Tonic is about more than food and drink; it’s about opportunity,
creativity, and community.” said Jenn. “We wanted to create a space where independent chefs, creatives and entrepreneurs could thrive.”
Rob continues to champion local suppliers and carefully sourced ingredients, creating menus that evolve with the seasons while staying rooted in the flavours of the Yorkshire coast. His four-course sample menu of garden, sea, land and dessert includes tandoori cauliflower, patatas bravas, duck and blackberry, smoked chestnut and 72% dark chocolate gelato.
The latest Yorkshire in Business dual-hospitality venue
Author and speaker Tony Robinson OBE, who chairs Yorkshire in Business and Founder of Micro Business Alliance, is a dedicated
supporter of start-ups, selfemployed people and micro-business owners. He said: “Our new cafe-bar has similar aims and our enterprise
support teams are doing great things for enterprising people along the coast.
“In our 40 years of providing free enterprise support, we’ve moved a long way from workspace rental with free business advice in our five buildings. We’re in the heart of communities, creatives, innovators, and makers and manufacturers are also benefiting. Every start-up matters #MicroBizMatters.”
He and Jenn collected another award at Global Entrepreneurship Week in Hull in November for national and regional work for The Micro Business Alliance. Small and medium-sized enterprises account for an amazing total of more than 99% of all UK businesses.
Quality fare at Grind & Tonic new venue that's a cafe by a day and restaurant Saturday night
Jenn Crowther and Jo Greenwood of Yorkshire in Business at Green Room Dining popup within Grind & Tonic
Actions to keep the coast vibrant
Introducing a new feature for Yorkshire Businessman, an at-a-glance coast-based business news round-up.
Boost for Seagrown seaweed farm
Scarborough’s seaweed cultivators Seagrown have been given a significant financial loan from Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II.
A six-figure sum will help it expand work to improve water quality and reduce carbon. SeaGrown, which has created a 60-acre ‘farm’ just south of the town’s coastline for seaweed and shellfish to be grown at scale.
The company was founded in 2018 by Wave Crookes and marine scientist Professor Laura Robinson, and has been featured in previous editions of this magazine.
The company sells seaweed products in collaboration with other businesses and its biggest market could be ports, offshore operators and utility companies. It has 16 staff at its headquarters in Scarborough but hopes to double in size and open more sites.
The new investment reflects “growing interest in cultivating seaweed in recent years as businesses start to recognise the benefits,” and will help the company take on new commercial contracts as a key player in what is called the ‘blue economy’.
Lizzy Upton, of the British Business Bank, which facilitates the NPIF II fund, said SeaGrown is “a great example of how innovative northern businesses are leading the way in developing sustainable technologies that benefit the economy and the environment”.
Seagrown has a large boat the MV Southern Star based at Vincent Pier.
Lighting up the coast
It’ll be a brighter winter thanks to Scarborough Lights 2025 and The Scarborough Fair Autumn/Winter projects, launched at an event called Scarborough Histories and Mysteries at the parish church of St Mary’s.
This includes town centre illuminations such as Westborough’s light tunnel, illuminated dinosaurs on the Vernon Road and Aquarium Top roundabouts and harbour lights and lit-up boats.
At St Mary’s, Animated Objects have created three unique projections about the town’s story, its stainedglass windows and a contemporary nativity - combining drawing, photography, digital technology and cinematic projections. There is also a spotlight on the area’s photography history. Scarborough was Britain’s first seaside resort and the town’s first camera obscura appeared on the beach in 1823. An installation by the Photo Scarborough online project re-creates portable camera obscuras and pinhole cameras from recycled materials.
Studio expands its contribution
Beckview Studios, the independent music production and recording studio in Scalby, Scarborough, is supporting musicians, singers, songwriters, actors, authors, creatives and performers.
Among many events are performances by Robert Schmuck and Simeon Walker on February 7, recorded, filmed and live-streamed.
Managed and co-owned by Chris and Kristina Jones, the studios have become part of the coast’s vibrant music scene, from classical to jazz, rock to pop. It includes studio accommodation, Live Room, Control Room, Vocal/Isolation Booths and Green Room.
“Our approach of tracking to tape whenever possible, creates natural, characterful feel that particularly appeals to indie, jazz, rock, folk, country, and singer-songwriter projects. Our experience also spans working across a wide range, with commitment and enthusiasm.”
The seafront wheel rolls on
A ‘temporary’ large ferris wheel with two dozen passenger pods at Scarborough seafront is set to carry on rolling.
The 100ft observation wheel 100ft was set up six years ago and has now been given approval by the county
council to carry on for at least two more seasons.
It is situated on the cleared site of the former Futurist Theatre on Foreshore Road, South Bay – which was mooted to be the base for a new development by Flamingo Land. The ornate theatre, which hosted a huge array of national and international stars, was controversially demolished by a single vote by the now-disbanded borough council.
An adjoining adventure golf course run by the same company can also continue, until autumn 2027 “to continue to make a contribution to the vitality of the area”.
New travel commissioner
A new Active Travel Commissioner has been appointed for York and North Yorkshire “to make people feel safer and more confident to walk, wheel and cycle”.
Rhiannon Letman-Wade has been appointed by mayor David Skaith, to set up a comprehensive network of lit, well-maintained routes.
She will oversee delivery of the mayor’s £4m Active Travel Fund and ensure every community can benefit from “safer routes, better infrastructure and more affordable, accessible options for everyday journeys”.
Ms Letman-Wade has previously
worked with Wales’ Active Travel Board, School Streets, Bikeability and ModeShift, and helped local authorities improve their active travel ratings.
Rhiannon Letman-Wade, Active Travel Commissioner for York and North Yorkshire, said: “I’m speaking with stakeholders and community groups to build a picture of where we are now and what we need to do next.”
Leisure and commercial scheme
A sleepy stretch of the main road between Filey and Scarborough would be brought into dynamic use with a £30m job-creating leisure and commercial scheme.
Land off the A165 bypass near the Filey Road Park and Ride could include a hotel, pub, petrol station, supermarket, retail units and drivethrough restaurants and electric vehicle re-charging stations.
The site lies between the coast and the business and industrial estate – thousands of homes have been built nearby, with thousands more under construction. There is also a new road being built to link the A165 with the A64 ScarboroughYork, at Musham Bank to help cope with the extra housing.
The plan when formally submitted and if approved by North Yorkshire Council, follows an investment by the Next store to expand its offering at the A64 Seamer Road retail park after having to close its Scarborough town centre shop in the Brunswick shopping centre renovations.
James Rebanks is keynote speaker at Yorkshire Farming Conference
Best-selling author and farmer James Rebanks will be the keynote speaker at the first-ever Yorkshire Farming Conference, held by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society at the Great Yorkshire Showground in January.
The Yorkshire Farming Conference is an event for everyone working in agriculture and takes place in Harrogate on Wednesday 28 January 2026 at the Great Yorkshire Events Centre from 9am to 5pm where the Keynote Theatre is sponsored by Barclays. The Conference will see agriculture’s big topics discussed during a series of talks and workshops featuring farmers, industry leaders and innovators.
Keynote speaker James is a farmer and writer based in the Lake District, where his family has lived and worked for more than 600 years. An advocate and practitioner of farming with nature, James is a graduate of Oxford University and has worked as an expert advisor to UNESCO on sustainable tourism. He has authored bestselling books, including The Shepherd’s Life, English Pastoral and The Place of Tides.
James, who runs a flock of Herdwick sheep, and a herd of Belted Galloway cattle said: “I’m looking forward to
speaking at the Yorkshire Farming Conference and meeting other farmers at the Great Yorkshire Showground. It promises to be an interesting and informative day of conversation about the future of farming, and I’m delighted to have been asked to share what I have learned on my own farming journey.”
Allister Nixon, CEO of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society said: “We are delighted to reveal James Rebanks as the Yorkshire Farming Conference’s keynote speaker. As a progressive advocate of working with nature and as a farmer who is so passionate about what he does, his session is not to be missed.”
Among other speakers confirmed so far is Anna Jones, founder and managing director of Just Farmers which aims to improve communication between the farming community and urban audiences. Anna will host a session looking at how the perception of farmers by those outside of the industry has never mattered more.
Yorkshire farmers who will speak at the conference include fourth-generation arable farmer Graham Potter based near Thirsk, Anna Pennell who runs pedigree flocks of native sheep breeds near Richmond, and Richard Barker, of Lingy
Moor Farming who finishes Aberdeen Angus cattle.
Topics include farming smarter, policy implications and strengthening supply chains, with talks pitched for everyone in farming regardless of the size of their businesses or how long they have been in the industry. The theme of the conference is ‘Every Field, Every Farmer’ to reflect its inclusive spirit.
As well as a packed programme of talks, the conference will feature a trade show, opportunities for networking and the chance for farmers to claim BASIS and NroSo (CPD) points.
This is the first landmark event brought together by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society’s farming networks – Future Farmers of Yorkshire, Farmer Scientist Network, Yorkshire Rural Support Network, Women In Farming Network and Yorkshire Food, Farming and Rural Network. Each of these networks is guided by farmers and funded and coordinated by the Society to support those working in the industry.
Throughout the year, the Society’s farming networks offer skills training, bursaries to attend other industry events, knowledge exchange and networking opportunities and mentorship support.
Tickets for the Yorkshire Farming Conference are available to purchase online in advance only and are priced £25 + VAT. A discount is available for group bookings of 10 or more. To buy tickets, for more details and upcoming announcements about the conference line-up, visit yorkshirefarmingconference. co.uk.
Law firm advises limes developments on starbucks and burger king 20-year lettings
Property developerLimes Developments has secured 20-yearlettings from both Starbucks and Burger King on a two-acre site it owns in Bolsover, Derbyshire, following advice from law firm Gordons.
Strategically located half a mile from junction 28 of the M1 and just off the A38, the businesses have both opened seated and drive-through operations to serve motorists and the wider local community.
A team from Gordons led by commercial property partner, Sarah Ratcliffe, advised Lincolnheadquartered Limes Developments on the lettings. Prior to that, the firm worked with its longstanding client on the acquisition of the site and provided advice on its subsequent development.
The Bolsover site is adjacent to Panattoni Park J28 Central M1, a 350,000 sq. ft Grade A warehouse which is occupied by ecommerce fulfilment solutions company Super Smart Service.
The warehouse was built on a site acquired by logistics real estate developer Panattoni from Limes
Developments in December 2021 and Gordons also acted on that deal.
Limes Developments managing director, Marcus Jolly, said: “We are very pleased to have secured these two long-term lettings with Starbucks and Burger King
“We have benefitted from Gordons’ practical commercial advice for many years, and Sarah and her team demonstrated that again with these deals.”
Gordons commercial property partner, Sarah Ratcliffe, added: “We are proud to be long term trusted advisers to Limes Developments and to play our part in the business’s continued success.
“With these lettings secured, we now look forward to advising our client on their plans for phase two of the development which, subject to planning, would provide a further 430,000 sq. ft of warehouse space.”
12-Days of Fitness
With Richard Hill
Richard Hill is the founder and director of Iveridge Hall Spa in Leeds. Since opening its doors in May 2010 Iveridge Hall has become one of this country’s premier Health & Wellbeing centres. Offering a wide range of services delivered together in one place. Iveridge Hall is your‘One Stop Shop’ for all your physical and emotional needs.
The festive season is one of the hardest times to stay consistent with health and fitness, so having a realistic “12 Days of Fitness” plan is the best idea.
Here’s a balanced, motivating set of 12 x daily tips to help you feel great while still enjoying the festive season this year.
Stay Fit & Festive
Day 1 – Move Every Day (Even a Little!)
Commit to at least 20 minutes of
movement daily — a brisk walk, stretch, or mini home workout. Consistency beats perfection.
Day 2 – Hydration
Overindulgence
For every alcoholic or sugary drink, have a glass of water. Staying hydrated reduces fatigue, bloating, and overeating.
Day 3 – Strength Before Sweets
Do a quick bodyweight workout before big meals — squats, push-
ups, and planks. It boosts metabolism and helps manage cravings.
Day 4 – Prioritize Protein
Include protein (turkey, eggs, beans, fish, tofu) in every meal. It keeps you full longer and supports muscle maintenance.
Day 5 – Step Challenge
Aim for 8,000–10,000 steps today. Get outside — walk to see the lights, do errands on foot, or have a family stroll after dinner.
Day 6 – Sleep as Self-Care
Don’t skimp on rest. Aim for 7–8 hours — your body needs recovery as much as your mind needs peace.
Day 7 – Mindful Indulgence
Enjoy your festive treats — slowly, consciously, without guilt. Savor the flavours instead of snacking mindlessly.
Day 8 – Festive Flexibility
Stretch or do gentle yoga in the morning. It relieves stress, improves posture, and offsets all that holiday sitting.
Day
9
– Eat the Rainbow
Add colourful fruits and veggies to every plate. Antioxidants help boost immunity and energy during the busy season.
Day 10 – Unplug to Recharge
Take a break from screens for an hour today. Use that time for a
walk, reading, or chatting with loved ones — real connection is healthy too.
Day 11 – Mini Workouts Count
If time is short, do 3 x 10-minute sessions instead of one long workout. A few quick bursts of movement still do wonders.
Day 12 – Reflect & Reset
Celebrate your wins from the past 12 days. Note how your body feels and set a gentle goal to carry your healthy habits into the new year.
Making little changes over a long period of time is more sustainable than making drastic changes that are impossible to stick to.
The people that join our programs at Iveridge Health Club get better
results if they work their way into exercise gradually.
Those that join and start attending classes every day only last 2 to 3 weeks.
Those that join us and make slow and progressive changes to their lifestyle last longer.
Most of our members have been with us 15 years as they have found exercise classes or routines that they enjoy.
Final thought. “If you want to sustain exercise and make it part of everyday life, you must want to do it and not feel like you must do it. This means that you must enjoy every single movement that you do during your routine.”
You can find more about Iveridge Health Club and Spa at www.iveridge.co.uk
(L-r) Jake Slater, Mark Hendy and Sarah Charlesworth
Continued growth and success at Harris Project Management
Harris Project Management (HPM) is celebrating a period of sustained growth, fuelled by strategic team expansion and significant project wins across multiple sectors.
The division of leading architectural practice The Harris Partnership has promoted Jake Slater to Associate.
Jake now leads the Construction Health & Safety and CDM Regulations team, including several additional new team members.
Alongside Jakes’s promotion, Shaun Brennan has been appointed senior CDM principal designer and adviser, and Declan Murphy has joined as CDM principal designer and adviser.
HPM team growth has also been demonstrated over the last couple of years by the promotion of Mark Hendy to director who oversees a
strong team of project managers with the recent addition of an apprentice project manager Junior Raphael, who is studying at Leeds College of Building.
The new additions come as HPM continues to deliver a comprehensive suite of services including project management, contract administration and employer’s agent, CDM principal designer and CDM / health and safety adviser roles.
It has secured a new framework agreement to provide CDM and health and safety consultancy services to Equans Services, supporting projects in the healthcare sector.
The team, headquartered in Wakefield and operating across The Harris Partnership’s office network with both external clients and other parts of the Harris business, is also proud to be delivering CDM principal designer
adviser services for Willmott Dixon, including for the landmark £14.4m transformation of Event Central in Sheffield city centre, which is now on site.
Additionally, HPM is providing CDM principal designer services to Citylife for the Sky Gardens development, in collaboration with Torsion Group as principal contractor, in Leeds.
Sarah Charlesworth, director at The Harris Group, said: “With a reputation for excellence and innovation, HPM continues to grow its team and service offering to meet the evolving needs of the construction industry including the installation of multiple electric vehicle chargers for private and public transport including cars, buses and HGVs.
“Our recent strategic hires demonstrate our dedication to nurturing talent and growing our capabilities to meet increasing client demand. With the addition of experienced professionals and enhanced accreditations, we’re proud to offer an even broader range of health and safety services including the role of Temporary Works Coordinator, further strengthening our value to clients.
“Our latest projects also reflect our expanding footprint across the education, health and residential sectors, while reinforcing our longstanding commitment to major transport developments for clients such as Maritime Transport, MAN Truck & Bus UK, Arriva UK Bus Holdings, as well as MKM Building Supplies.
“This breadth of expertise has firmly positioned us as a trusted partner across the construction industry.”
LCB Named ‘Construction Apprenticeship College of the Year’
Leeds College of Building (LCB) is celebrating after winning a top industry trophy at the Construction Apprenticeship Awards 2025 in Manchester.
The prestigious ‘Construction Apprenticeship College / University of the Year’ category was awarded to Leeds College of Building for its dedication to apprentices and playing a vital role in shaping the future of construction apprenticeships.
The annual awards celebrate excellence and recognise the outstanding achievements of apprentices, providers, employers, suppliers, and assessors across the UK construction apprenticeship sector. By highlighting and rewarding success, the awards inspire continued growth, innovation, and improvement throughout the industry.
The ‘Level 4 Construction Apprentice of the Year’ award also went to Leeds College of Building higher apprentice Jason Kelly, a
Trainee Engineer at Burnley Borough Council.
Jason said: “Thank you to [Construction Apprentice Assessor] Aida Yousefabadi for nominating me and Leeds College of Building for your support. None of this would be possible without the guidance and mentoring provided by the
Jason Kelly
Engineering team at Burnley Borough Council. I am extremely grateful for the time they’ve invested into me.”
Another LCB student, Lois Riley, won the ‘Lloyds Banking Group Rising Star of the Year Award’ at the Yorkshire & Humber regional finals of the Department for Education’s National Apprenticeship and Skills Awards 2025. Lois is a Junior Project Manager at Equans UK & Ireland, having completed a Level 4 Construction Quantity Surveying Technician Apprenticeship at LCB. Lois will now progress to the national finals in London on 26 November.
Lois said: “I’m so proud (and still a bit in shock!) to have won the Rising Star of the Year Award. My apprenticeship has opened so many doors for me, and I’m excited to keep learning and seeing where this journey leads next. A huge thank you to my amazing team, mentors, and everyone who has supported me along the way. I wouldn’t be where I am without you all!”
Rob Holmes, LCB Vice Principal for Quality, Curriculum, and Innovation, added:
“Being recognised as the Construction Apprenticeship Awards ‘College of the Year’ for 2025 is a real testament to the passion, resilience, and dedication that’s driven our transformation over the past 18 months. It’s been inspiring to watch colleagues across every part of the college pull together with a shared purpose — and this award reflects that collective effort. A huge thanks to everyone who’s part of the journey.”
• Business Structures & Reorganisations
• Commercial Debt Collection
• Commercial Disputes
• Commercial Property
• Contracts
• Employment
• Intellectual Property
• International Trade & Transactions
• Internet Trading
• Mediation of Business Disputes
• Mergers, Acquisitions and Disposals
• Planning & Licensing
• Starting In Business
• Accident Claims
• Child Care
• Collaborative Law
• Dispute Resolution
• Employment Problems
• Matrimonial & Family
• Medical Negligence Claims
• Planning for Retirement
• Residential Property
• Road Traffic Cases
• The Law & The Elderley
• Wills, Trusts & Probate
Parsons, Chartered Accountants announces
As the firm continues to grow, Parsons is delighted to announce the promotion of four new directors in Tax, Audit and Business Services.
The award-winning Yorkshire firm has been a leading provider of accounting, tax, audit and corporate finance services since 2009, and these appointments mark a key milestone for the firm as Parsons continues to expand its client base and invest in their employees.
Commenting on the new appointments, managing partner
Ian Parsons said, “I am delighted to share the news of these promotions. Everyone has been integral to the growth of the company, and they continue to provide exceptional service for our clients showcasing our firm’s values.”
The new Director appointments are:
Andy Lucas, audit director – Andy joined Parsons in September 2022 and brings over a decade of experience in auditing clients which has ranged from local, owner-managed businesses to internationally listed clients.
“I’m incredibly honoured to be promoted on the third anniversary of my employment with Parsons. I’m looking forward to leading the audit team in its next growth chapter which has been underpinned by recent excellent appointments at manager and assistant manager level. The increase in the depth and breadth of the expertise in the department means the firm is a leading option as an auditor for corporates of all sizes in the Yorkshire region.”
Martin Benson-May, audit director – Martin qualified as a chartered accountant with the Big 4 Firm EY and has worked with some of the region’s largest SMEs as well as multi-national corporations and government bodies.
“I’m pleased to take on this new positi on and want to thank everyone who has supported me in my career. I’m excited to continue to work with the rest of the leadership team during our next period of growth as we drive forward the firm in the market, continue to provide the best quality of service to both our
existing and new clients and further invest in our growing team.”
Daniel Andreca, tax director –Daniel is a qualified tax advisor and chartered accountant and focuses on more complex issues faced by owner-managed businesses, their shareholders and their families including exit planning, succession planning, management incentive planning, remuneration planning and resident and domicile matters.
“I am honoured and sincerely grateful for the opportunity to step into the role of Tax Director. I’m excited to continue to make meaningful impact, support clients and colleagues to achieve their objective, and lead with purpose and clarity.”
Steven Wotherspoon, director and head of business services – Steve has predominantly worked with ownermanaged businesses since 2010 and has a wealth of experience across multiple sectors. Steve heads up the Business Services team that takes responsibility for annual compliance services, transactional and technical accounting advisory.
“I’m delighted to have been promoted and grateful for the backing and confidence shown by Ian. Since joining Parsons in May 2024 my key focus has been in developing and adding to an already exceptional Business Services team to drive standards and improve on our service to clients. I’m looking forward to being a part of the continued growth and development of the firm.”
Photo: (L to R) Andy Lucas, Daniel Andreca, Ian Parsons, StevenWortherspoonand Martin Benson-May
Yorkshire Businessman catches up with Simon Grayson
For this first edition, Yorkshire Businesswoman caught up with ex-Leeds United player and manager Simon Grayson to find out a little more about him and his career.
“After growing up and spending many many hours on the playing fields in the market town of Bedale, I left school to start as an apprentice footballer at Leeds United Football Club. This was all I ever wanted to do, especially as Leeds United was the team I supported. This was the start of my dream making it as a professional footballer but knowing that it could also be something I fail to achieve, I always knew I would give it everything.
“Leaving home was tough even though it was only 50 minutes
away,” he told us. “Quickly a young group of lads all bonded together to make it a lot easier. Gary Speed was one of those lads who I became close to who unfortunately is no longer with us.
“At 17, I made my first team debut away at Huddersfield in a local derby match. To make my debut that quickly was a brilliant feeling and proud moment for my family. Unfortunately, I did not get to play too many games, but the handful I played could never be taken away from me. I had the experience of working with the great Billy Bremner, Howard Wilkinson and players such as Gordon Strachan, Gary McCallister and many others who I learnt so much from when trying to make a success in a highly demanding sport, where you have so many highs and lows.
“I left Leeds in March 1992 to move to Leicester City wondering if I would ever get the chance to come back to Elland Road. After playing in the Premier League, lifting a trophy at Wembley for Leicester City and playing in Europe, eventually I retired at 36. Blackpool was my last club as a player; I then moved onto my next chapter in football as a manager,” he continued. “After successful years at Blackpool, I received the call I thought I would never get, that call was from Leeds United to become their new first team manager. To return after 20 years from when I had first started at Leeds United was surreal. To follow in the footsteps of Don Revie, Billy Bremner, Howard Wilkinson and
many others was something I could never have imagined would every happen to me.
Business Profile:
During the 3½ years I always remembered the advice I had been given on how to deal with all the
Wayne Topley
Wayne Topley is managing director of Cedar Court Hotels, leading the transformation and growth of one of Yorkshire’s most prominent independent hotel groups.
With over 25 years of leadership experience across the hospitality sector, Wayne is known for repositioning brands, delivering large-scale refurbishments, and building high-performing, customer-driven teams.
A passionate advocate for sustainability, community partnerships, and the development of future talent, Wayne has overseen initiatives including achieving Zero Waste to Landfill across the group and forging major
highs and lows and expectancy of managing Leeds United. The highs were winning promotion, beating Manchester United in the FA Cup and the connection I had with the supporters of the club and city. The lows were there too, difficult results along the way were all part of the journey.
“My love of the club remains as strong today as ever, where I feel so privileged and proud to have probably been the only person to have supported, played and managed Leeds United.
“Recently I have coached in India and Nepal, where I have won trophies, both were an incredible professional work and life experience, but nothing beats living back home in Yorkshire.”
collaborations with industry and local partners.
Wayne also plays a key leadership role beyond Cedar Court, spearheading the creation of a Leeds Accommodation Business Improvement District
to strengthen the city’s competitiveness in the UK events and hospitality market.
Wayne’s strategic vision and people-first leadership continue to shape both his organisation and the wider industry.
‘A Moroccan inspired stand out in West Yorkshire’
Review by Debbie Dobson, director, Yorkshire BusinessWoman
A new star has emerged on the West Yorkshire dining scene, and it’s already reshaping expectations of what a neighbourhood res taurant can be.
Pemberleys Bar & Grill in Lofthouse blends Moroccan inspired warmth with modern British, creating a space that feels instantly welcome.
Stepping inside, the first thing that strikes you is the décor: rich colours, textured North African accents, soft lighting and a contemporary elegance that never feels overdone. It’s the sort of dining room that immediately sets the tone for something special.
The kitchen is led by group head chef Will Nicol, whose background in five
star hotels including Oulton Hall, is evident throughout the menu. His dishes balance Moroccan influences with modern culinary finesse, and during my visit, that craftsmanship shone through beautifully.
For starters, I enjoyed the Burrata, a wonderfully creamy centrepiece paired with an earthy beetroot puree and sweet heritage plum tomatoes. The combination was vibrant, balanced and visually striking, exactly what you hope for from a composed modern starter.
My guest chose the King Prawn Tempura, served with a mango chilli sauce and a zesty salad. The prawns were crisp, and light and the sauce delivered just the right kick without overwhelming the sweetness of the mango.
For mains, I followed chef’s recommendation, I opted for the Chicken Roulade, and it was simply delicious. Filled with creamy mozzarella, garlic and herbs, then breadcrumbed and served with a smooth tomato romesco sauce, the roulade was cooked with exceptional precision.My guest chose the Picanha Rump
Steak, which arrived cooked to absolute perfection. Tender, flavourful and beautifully rested, it showcased the kitchen’s skill with quality cuts and high heat cooking.
Too full for a dessert, my guest and I retreated to the elegant bar area for a relaxed final drink. The bar is a destination in itself: stylish, relaxed and ideal whether you’re in for cocktails, an after-work drink or a weekend wind down. Service throughout the evening was polished yet friendly, attentive without ever feeling intrusive.
It’s easy to see why Pemberleys has already become a popular choice for private dining and
celebrations. The space adapts effortlessly from casual daytime dining to intimate evening ambience, and the team manages to maintain a high level of consistency in both food and hospitality.
Looking ahead, the restaurant is gearing up for an exciting 2026 events calendar, including themed dining nights, cultural showcases and community driven celebrations, signalling that Pemberleys is positioning itself as not just a place to eat, but a vibrant social hub for Lofthouse.
So, here’s my final verdict: -
With beautifully executed food, impeccable service and
a setting that blends warmth with sophistication, Pemberleys Bar & Grill Lofthouse stands out as one of West Yorkshire’s most exciting dining destinations. Whether you visit for the flavours, the cocktails or the atmosphere, this Moroccan inspired gem is raising the bar and doing so with style!
A big thanks to all those who joined us for the annual Yorkshire BusinesswoMAN event at Toyota Leeds on 7 November.
Members and guests were joined by The Dental Architect who chatting
with host Zoe Hands from the Marriott Hotel about the benefits
of their new treatments and even brought along a demonstration machine for free consultations.
The ever-popular Charlotte Tilbury had a pop up with cosmetics available to purchase, great for getting those early Christmas gifts, whilst enjoying demonstrations and of course test driving was available from the huge selection of Toyota cars.
Our thanks to member Rachel Cheshire for the amazing canapes and of course to Perrin Read for these great photos.
We have a full programme of events planned for 2026 as well as our Yorkshire Businesswoman Awards of course, so do keep an eye on the website and member area for details.
Reach new heights this Christmas: CrowdedHouse celebrates its first festive season
Celebrate Christmas in style as CrowdedHouse, Leeds’ newest luxury rooftop destination opens its doors for its first Christmas in the city.
Launching from 17 November, the all-day venue will unveil its festive menus, available throughout the season for both lunch and dinner. Featuring a carefully curated selection of festive favourites with a contemporary twist, guests can expect indulgent dishes, handcrafted cocktails, 90’s inspired decorations and a spectacular city backdrop.
Whether it’s an intimate gathering or a large Christmas party, CrowdedHouse offers a range of private and semi-private spaces for groups of 18 to 330 guests
across two floors, including the restaurant, lounge, private dining room, and rooftop terrace.
Available for private hire Monday to Saturday (9am–9pm) and Sundays
(10.30am–6.30pm), CrowdedHouse provides the perfect setting for any Christmas celebration, with only a deposit and minimum spend required.
Crafted by Head Chef and AA Rosette winner Simon Jewitt, the three course Christmas set menu priced from £45 features the finest seasonal favourites, with highlights including confit chicken terrine, smoked caesar dressing, caper jam and chicken fat brioche as well as a Baileys choux bun, chocolate orange glaze and cinnamon ice cream. For more casual dining, guests can choose from the festive canapes and small plates menu designed for sharing.
To complement the menus, bespoke festive drinks packages, including wines and champagnes from Corney & Barrow and LWC are available alongside Christmas cocktails such as chocolate orange martinis and a mulled wine bellinis.
Dinner and private hire reservations are now open, to book a table please visit: www.thecrowdedhouse.co.uk
To book directly, please email CrowdedHouse: reservations@ thecrowdedhouse.co.uk
17 November, open daily from 10am ‘til late
CrowdedHouse, Level 5&6, Trinity Centre, 70 Boar Lane, LS1 6HW.
Venue capacity: Semi private and exclusive hire available from 18- 330 people.
Menu options: Set menu for £45.00 alongside drink pairings and festive small plates.
