Yorkshire BusinessWoman December 2024 edition

S u p p o r t i n g fe m a l e b u s i n e s s w o m e n a c r o s s t h e Yo r k s h i r e r e g i o n

Nº24 Bi-Monthly

Yorkshire Businesswoman

is making mid-life matter Are you getting the most from your membership?

Record breaking attempt to row the Atlantic at 59

December 2024

People.

Results.

Value.

We believe that when businesses work together, they can achieve fantastic things.

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

Just imagine what we could do together.

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Contents

Headshots-52 Sharon J.jpg Tinaboden-48.jpg Group Editor Gill Laidler Design Rob Blackwell Associate editor Freda Shafi Administrator Charlotte Hall

Printed By: PMG Print management

Official Photographers Roth Read Photography

Cover : Tina Boden Image : Mary Davies Photography The views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those held by the publishers and therefore, no responsibility can be held by the publisher for misinterpretation.

Reproduction of this magazine without the express permission of the publisher is prohibited. Whilst every care is taken in the production of this magazine, the publisher/editor and staff cannot accept any responsibility for errors in articles, advertisements or programme schedules. To subscribe to this magazine contact 07711 539047 or email editor@yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk.

Published by Ghost Publishing who decline all responsibility for advice given.

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AHEAD PARTNERSHIP C E L E B R AT E S 2 0 Y E A R S

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M A K I N G M I D L I F E M AT T E R

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ROW I N G T H E AT L A N T I C S O LO AT 5 9

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ARE YOU GETTING THE MOST FROM YOUR MEMBERHIP

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FORG E N E W HO M E S A P P O I N TS HE A D OF L A N D A N D DE VE LO P M E N T

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YBW AWARDS

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TRUE FULFILMENT COMES FROM CHANGE OF CAREER

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EXERCISING IS HARD WHEN MENOPAUSE MAKES YOU WANT TO HIDE AWAY

JCT600 MAKES RECORD INVESTMENT

Digital Copy available, yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s Wo m a n

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EditorsNotes

By group editor Gill Laidler

We all say it, but really, where has this year gone! With Christmas just around the corner, our plans are focussed on 2025 starting with the Yorkshire Businesswoman Awards on 7 March.

As we went to print, we were getting ready to close off the nominations, but you can purchase tickets on our website right up to the event, although don’t leave it too late, we sold out by January for the first awards.

Our final event of the year is our Christmas party on 6th December for members and their guests, a threecourse traditional Christmas lunch at The Royal Armouries. Planning for events for 2025 is well underway and we have lots of new venues planned. Anyone wanting to get 2025 off to a flying start with their business, can sign up to be a member on our website and enjoy lots of networking, podcast appearances, space within the magazine, on our websites and promotion.

It's a busy time of the year and we have been lucky enough to attend lots of events such as the Bradley’s Jewellers Faberge launch dinner at Castle Howard, my thanks to Gillian Robson for the invitation. What a beautiful event, dressed for Christmas, the castle looked stunning. We also attended

The Marriott Leeds for the Smart Works annual charity ball where a fantastic £10k was raised. We have chosen Smart Works as our charity of the year 2025 where proceeds from our awards will be donated and so you will be hearing lots more from them. We say a fond farewell to Martin House Hospice, our outgoing charity who we have worked with this year, but I’m sure we will be hearing more from this fabulous charity during 2025.

Finally on 17 October, we launched another businesswoman magazine, Northern Businesswoman covering Newcastle and the Northeast. Marketing Adventure’s Brogan Huntington is the editor, and anyone interested in promoting their business in the Northeast can get in touch and we can help.

I would like to wish everyone a very merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year.

Gill x

You can email us at hello@yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk or call us on 07711 539047 yorkshire_businesswoman yorkshirebusin2

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River Holme Connections has achieved a significant milestone with the appointment of its first chief executive officer, Rosslyn Colderley.

The CEO appointment coincides with the charity’s upcoming 10th anniversary, marking a decade of community engagement and environmental conservation in the River Holme catchment.

Rosslyn brings over three decades of experience in the environmental and charitable sectors, having held leadership roles at Sustrans, the Wildlife Trust, the Canal and Rivers Trust, and the Conservation Volunteers.

In her most recent role as England director north at Sustrans, Rosslyn led numerous high impact projects, securing substantial funding that enabled the growth of key environmental initiatives across the nation.

Inspired by paralympic athlete Karen Darke’s mantra, ‘Wouldn’t it be amazing to…?’, Rosslyn has always sought to challenge herself and her teams to aim high.

Rosslyn Colderley appointed as River Holme Connections’ first CEO

H e r v i s i o n , ‘ Wo u l d n ’ t i t b e amazing to lead an environmental organisation’ has now been fulfilled with her appointment at River Holme Connections.

“I am excited to bring fresh insights and work alongside talented colleagues, supportive volunteers, and local stakeholders to make a lasting positive impact on this wild and beautiful place.”

Rosslyn said: “The transformation of the River Holme catchment has been remarkable, and I look forward to using my experience to further the charity’s mission of connecting people to landscapes, their communities, and one another.

R o s y n w i l l j o i n t h e te a m i n January and participate in a tree planting ceremony to celebrate the milestone of the 100,000th tree being planted, symbolising River Holme Connections’ ongoing commitment to enhancing the local environment.

Founder Lynva Russell and chair of Trustees said: “Rosslyn’s extensive experience in conservation, coupled with her infectious enthusiasm, makes her the ideal leader as we enter our second decade. “I look forward to working alongside her to continue making the River Holme catchment a better place for people and wildlife.”

Rosslyn’s leadership is set to steer River Holme Connections towards new conservation achievements, further protecting and restoring the region’s natural landscapes.

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Ahead Partnership celebrates 20 years of inspirational youth engagement This year marks the 20th anniversary of Ahead Partnership, a pioneering ESG specialist that has positively impacted the lives of over 600,000 young people across the UK since it was founded in Leeds in 2004.

Ahead Partnership was born out of the realisation that employers could play a vital role in bridging the gap between the school curriculum and the needs of specific sectors, as well as helping to support young people.

Its unique partnership model sees it bring together public and private sector businesses to develop and deliver bespoke skills and careers programmes to promote upwards social mobility.

These programmes are designed to support young people, particularly those facing barriers such as underrepresentation or disability, to reach their full potential, as well as broadening their access to opportunity across multiple key growth sectors. To date, they have been delivered in collaboration with more than 21,000 volunteers across 4,000 organisations nationwide.

Ahead Partnership was established by former lawyer Stephanie Burras CBE who worked closely with Leeds City Council and Pinsent Masons to understand how best to unite the public and private sectors behind the shared goal of youth engagement. This earlystage focus on public and private sector collaboration continues to influence the business’s operating model to date.

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Jon Riley, head of Leeds at Pinsent Masons, said: “We have believed in the mission of Ahead Partnership since day one, and are proud to have supported them through 20 years of dedicated work.

Improving young people’s employability skills, building a strong pipeline of future talent, and helping to address skills gaps across multiple regions and sectors to promote inclusive growth, have been and continue to be the business’s key goals.

Over the past two decades, Ahead Partnership has expanded into a national operation, now supported by a 50-strong team. As well as its focus on youth engagement, Ahead Partnership allows employers to provide vital volunteering, mentorship and development opportunities to their own staff, helping to boost employee engagement and retention, as well as bolstering their ESG credentials.

experiences, designed to impact across different key stages of their schooling.

These bespoke programmes equip young people with the knowledge and confidence to pursue avenues that promise fantastic opportunities for their future careers, while supporting businesses in securing a more diverse future workforce across a range of disciplines.

Megan Lipp, head of Development at said: “While we now have a national reach, Leeds has always been an ideal base for springboarding our ideas, and in many ways is our spiritual home.

The city’s vibrant corporate culture and strong ethos of collaboration have been instrumental in our success, and together have created a model that we have replicated in cities across the UK.

“The efforts of Stehanie and her team have facilitated the building of meaningful connections between our employees and the next generation of talent wanting to know more about a career in diversifying the legal profession. We’ve met so many incredible young people on our journey with Ahead Partnership and feel the impact of their voices in the work that we do.

“We look forward to continuing to collaborate with Ahead Partnership as we benefit from its long-term impact in our future industry and in our ESG goals.”

Despite operating through challenges such as the 2008 financial crash, to the Covid-19 pandemic and the ongoing cost-ofliving crisis, the company’s ethos of partnership working has allowed it to collaborate with industryleading businesses to refine the programmes on offer.

Stephanie said: “We have put a lot of effort into adapting our programmes in response to recent world events to make sure they are contemporary, appealing and relevant. It’s imperative to us that we can tailor our programmes to suit emerging skills needs and the requirements of the workforce of the future.”

Its long-term partners include sector leaders and household names such as MEPC, John Lewis Partnership, “We’ve learned over the past two Landsec and Arcadis. decades that our collaborative approach is an effective way of providing both Running co-designed programmes for young people and our business partners businesses across key sectors such with skills development opportunities. as sustainability, built environment, Across the country, we have seen more “With ESG constantly evolving, we professional services and digital, and more companies embed ESG into need to stay ahead of the curve, so Ahead Partnership has given 125,000 the very fabric of their businesses, we are keen to continue developing young people in Leeds alone access to showing their commitment to our work in close collaboration interactive careers and skills events, their teams, communities and the with young voices, schools and workshops, mentorship, and hands-on environment.” partners.”

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Forge New Homes appoints head of land and development Fo rg e Ne w H o m e s h a s appointed Lindsay Salvin as its new Head of Land and Development, furthering its ambitions to secure key sites across Yorkshire and the East Midlands.

Lindsay joins the Sheffield-based com pa n y from H a llam L an d Management, where she spent two years overseeing nationwide land acquisitions. With decades of experience in the built environment, her career includes senior roles at companies such as Vistry Partnerships and Strategic Team Group.

Commenting on her new role, Lindsay said: " Forge New Homes is on the cusp of an exciting new era such an exciting time for the company. The team has ambitious plans for growth, and I’m eager to leverage my experience in land acquisition to help secure the right sites that will deliver much-needed homes across the region.

Purchase “I look forward to working with our partners and stakeholders to shape thriving and accessible new communities across Yorkshire and the East Midlands."

Her appointment follows a period of significant activity for Forge, which recently broke ground on two new residential developments – one at Waverley in Sheffield and another in Bolsover in the East Midlands.

Additionally, the company has announced the purchase of a sevenacre greenfield site in Beckingham, an attractive commuter village on the

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Lincolnshire/Nottinghamshire border from Wilgoose Homes.

positioned to secure the best sites and deliver our pipeline of developments."

Andy Beattie, managing director said: "Lindsay is an incredible addition to our team. Her depth of knowledge and experience in land acquisition will be invaluable as we continue to grow our portfolio.

Nick Atkin, chief executive of Yorkshire Housing and Chair of Forge New Homes, added: "Lindsay’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for Forge as we continue to expand our footprint.

Her expertise in land acquisition will play a critical role in helping us identify strategic opportunities and drive forward our mission of creating sustainable communities."

“Forge New Homes is committed to delivering high-quality homes, and with Lindsay on board, we are well-

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Enhance your management Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 11

Law firm announces commercial new appointments

are both proven operators within their respective fields, and can build and maintain strong client relationships which is key to our success as a firm.

“Lydia will further enable our ability to provide excellent levels of service and the delivery of positive outcomes for existing and new commercial property clients.

Law firm Gordons' Lydia Sharpe (left) and Isca Watson

Law firm Gordons has appointed a commercial property lawyer and a private client-chartered tax advisor.

Lydia Sharpe joins the firm’s commercial property team from Womble Bond Dickinson and has experience in advising on a wide range of commercial matters.

She has experience within the retail sector having advised various national retailers in relation to shopping centres, high streets and retail parks.

In private client, Isca Watson arrives from accountancy firm RSM having qualified as a chartered tax advisor in 2021.

At Gordons, she is providing clients with further expertise by advising trustees, personal representatives, and private individuals on a range of tax matters including inheritance tax, capital gains tax and income tax.

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Commenting on the new appointments, managing partner, Victoria Davey, said: “Lydia and Isca

“Isca will provide our private clients with additional insight and advice on tax matters, which is particularly relevant due to changes made by the Autumn Budget.

“We welcome them both to the firm and look forward to providing Lydia and Isca with the opportunity to continually develop themselves both professionally and personally.”

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Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 13

New bakery announces opening in Leeds interior design specialist Design Tonic, has a sleek contemporary interior and promises to delight the senses with lots to see and smell!

The focal point of the space is an impressive display cabinet showcasing an array of exquisite pastries and desserts. Alongside this, a fully open bakery kitchen provides an almost immersive-like experience allowing customers to observe the artistry of BAKE’S expert pâtissiers as they wait for their order and take in incredible aromas at every turn.

A new bakery that will tantalise the tastebuds and satisfy the most discerning of patisserie lovers is set to open in Leeds.

BAKE is a new concept-style bakery and café which promises to bring something completely new to the city.

Devised by the brains behind the much-loved Do’hut and Things in Bread, BAKE aims to give the British bakery a renaissance with the emphasis on freshly baked goods, high quality locally sourced ingredients and delicious coffee.

The design and interior of BAKE has always been hugely important to me. I’ve worked with Design Tonic on all my ventures...

Selling delicious sweet and savoury pastries, breads, sandwiches and more, BAKE will combine the precision and artistry of French patisserie with renowned British classics to offer customers a more elevated taste of the baked treats we all know and love.

on nostalgia, creating classic and much-loved sweet and savoury bakes but making them the best they’ve ever tasted. We’ll be reinventing everyday favourites and taking them to the next level whilst creating a relaxing space for people to take a moment to really enjoy every bite.”

BAKE founder Tom Stafford said: “The whole ethos of BAKE is based

The stylish café, which is being designed and delivered by commercial

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Tom added: “The design and interior of BAKE has always been hugely important to me. I’ve worked with Design Tonic on all my ventures, and the team there are great at really understanding my vision and then turning that into a reality.

“I want to create an unforgettable experience for BAKE customers, and I think we’ve achieved that. I can’t wait for people to see it.”

Located on Mustard Wharf, the canal side café has 30 indoor and 25 outdoor covers providing a place to relax by the water or grab a treat and go with both sit-in and take away options.

BAKE is the third ‘dough’ venture for Tom. His popular donut shop Doh’hut opened in Leeds in 2020, and sandwich shop Things in Bread then followed in 2023 with both amassing a huge following of loyal customers.

BAKE will open early 2025.

Agencynursingandhealthcare provider Local Care Force is celebrating 20 years in business. This is a major milestone for the specialist recruiter,which has weathered many storms, including the pandemic, changing governments,new legislation, the NHS in crisis,and an ageing population.

The company attributes this remarkable success to its incredible and dedicated staff. It has over 35 employees - more than half of whom have been with the business for over a decade, and 550 temporary staff. The business has offices in Leeds, Sheffield, and Manchester and supplies workers to the nursing, healthcare, and social care sectors.

Since its inception, Local Care Force has provided staff for over 1.5 million shifts and is the preferred partner to many large private, public, and charitable organisations. It has worked with private hospitals, including Priory, as a top-level supplier and has been a main supplier to HFT, a specialist learning disability provider, for the last 12 years.

In addition, Local Care Force is renowned for its outstanding compliance, being the first agency to achieve ‘Priory Elite’ scoring over 95% in multiple audits.

L-R ( front row) Samantha Bates, Leanne Silverwood, Steph Dakers, Michelle Shaw, Wendy Silverwood (back row) Paul Jones, Wayne Brady, John Ibbotson

20 years in business for local care force over 1,100 individuals to a career in care through its 'Prepare to Care' and 'New to Care' training courses, which are run by teachers, trainers, a care manager and qualified Nurses.

Leanne Silverwood (pictured front second left) a former healthcare professional, founded the business two decades ago. Having originally worked in mental health care, Leanne saw that she could improve the industry by creating a genuinely caring agency that provided quality, trained, and well-supported staff.

On the anniversary, Leanne commented.

“We are so proud to have reached this major milestone of 20 years in business.

We are industry specialists providing consistency and quality and we couldn’t have done it without our incredible team of dedicated, committed, and loyal workers. Over the years, we've learned many valuable lessons that have shaped our company into what it is today.

The business has also successfully educated, supervised and introduced

“As an agency, we pride ourselves on being small enough to care and to

make every one of our clients feel important, whilst still being big enough with a strong enough infrastructure to weather the storm. The last four years have been an absolute roller coaster and navigating the pandemic was one of the biggest challenges we could have ever experienced. The fact that we are still here is a testament to the incredible hard work and dedication of every single member of our team.”

LCF has previously been awarded 21st place in the Sunday Times 100 Best Small Companies to work for and is the only agency to ever be inducted into the Royal Collage of Nursing library of best practice, as the gold standard for agency Nursing.

Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 15

York City Ladies launches MinsterBelles podcast York City Ladies FC is launching a new #MoreThanFootball podcast as a platform for inspirational female voices.

The podcast, co-hosted by Paula Stainton, YCLFC chairperson, and Charlie Hopper, York City Ladies media voice, has a female focus and will feature a wide variety of guests - from coaches and players to local entrepreneurs.

Kicking off the podcast is first guest Steph Turnbull, sporting director at York City FC Foundation Female Pathway. Steph talks about how she got into football and coaching, her role with the team, and her

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appointment by the FA to be a talent scout for the Lionesses.

Paula says: “We’re excited to be launching the podcast, which will show that we’re about so much more than the game itself. We want guests to tell their stories - everyone has their journey. We want to share experiences and expertise, and advocate for women. “ We k e e p l o o k i n g f o r f r e s h innovative ways of engaging with

our MinsterBelles community and to spread the word about the female game even wider.

“We take our role seriously to champion females as well as the female game. More and more, we have the pleasure of meeting some amazing women in York and across Yorkshire through our York City Ladies network, and we wanted to be able to share their stories alongside ours.

“The momentum around the female game is exciting, and York City Ladies FC are passionate about

advocating for females on and off the field, including those women in business who support women in sport. “#MoreThanFootball is a positive platform for s h a r in g s to ri e s alongside a love for the female game.

Expect to hear lots of female voices.”

The podcast will represent the MinsterBelles as part of York City FC Foundation - and it’s wider #MoreThanFootball strategy.

Paula explains: “I don’t do my role for the love of football. It’s about the reward we get when we’ve made a difference to the community - and the positive impact we can make on individuals.

“The Foundation helps thousands of people every month, from

delivering football after-school clubs to supporting local events.”

Great examples of how the Foundation is about so much more than football include their recent involvement with the York Food & Drink Festival, where they partnered with The Cookery School at The Grand to host The Great York Family Cookery Competition. This gave finalists the opportunity to create their favourite post-match family meal in the Cookery School under the watchful eye of their head chefs in a Masterchef-style environment.

There’s also BusinessBelles, a woman in business network for women running their own business or working for organisations in York and the surrounding areas, with an online community and monthly events.

Paula adds: “Being recognised as a charity in our own right this year has solidified the reputation, we have for being about More Than Football within the business community of York. This includes being chosen by several prestigious names as their selected Charity of the Year, including the Lord Mayor of York and Civic Party, York Professionals, Ison Harrison Solicitors - and even local band Shed Seven.

“This support allows us to continue to share our programmes with even more people. We want to keep improving our offer for physical and mental health, reducing social isolation, improving community cohesion, and tackling food poverty and holiday hunger.

“Football is about so much more than the game - it can change lives.”

Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 17

The formula for loyalty New data from digital transformation consultancy Daemon reveals that while discounts are still a primary motivator for shoppers, willingness to share certain information and the changing retail landscape is reshaping consumer loyalty.

Across generations, discounts are a common theme. 61% of GenZ, 67% of Millennials, and 65% of Baby Boomers say special discounts are the top reason that would keep them shopping with a retailer. Despite this, there are varying degrees of willingness to share personal information in exchange for these benefits.

Over half - 58% - would provide their email address to receive a 25% discount on their next purchase, making it the most popular incentive. However, only one in ten (9%) would share their social media profile for the same offer. When it comes to faster checkout times, only a quarter (25%) would provide their email address

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These findings highlight that consumers value their personal data differently across generations. Younger shoppers are more open to sharing information... for this, but 52% would not give up any personal information to receive this perk. Further, only 10% would be willing to give up their date of birth for a faster checkout time but 24% would be willing to give up this information for a discount or free products.

Generational differences further highlight the privacy vs perks dilemma. To receive free products, 30% of GenZ would share their phone number but only 13% of Baby Boomers would do the same. Comparatively, 32% of Millennials would share their address compared to 25% of GenZ and only 19% of Baby Boomers. Similarly, for early access to sales, 44% of GenZ and 41% of millennials would share their email address but only 29% of Baby Boomers would do the same.

Kyle Hauptfleisch, from Daemon comments, “These findings highlight that consumers value their personal data differently across generations.

Younger shoppers are more open to sharing information like phone numbers for perks, while older generations tend to hold back, even for a reward. Given the generational differences, retailers need to balance

perks with trust and tailor incentives to different demographics, based on consumer insights. " The pandemic caused a seismic shift in grocery shopping habits with online shopping surging between March 2020 and summer 2021. During that period, 17% did their grocery shopping online exclusively, compared to just 4% pre-pandemic. Now this figure is back down to 5%, with a slight regional spike to 8% in areas like East of England, Yorkshire & Humberside and the West Midlands.

Meanwhile, in-store shopping remains dominant, with 36% of consumers currently shopping this way. This figure climbs to 46% in the Northeast, and 42% in the Northwest and Wales.

When choosing where to shop for groceries in-store, price ranks the most important (59%), followed by convenience (56%), product availability (53%). However online, convenience ranks most important (49%), followed by price and delivery experience (46%).

Lower delivery fees would make 40% more likely to shop for groceries online more frequently, followed by better deals online (34%) and removal of the minimum spend requirement (28%).

“While online grocery shopping has swiftly shifted back to pre-pandemic norms, continues Kyle, there is a small window of time to capitalise on a precedent set during the pandemic.

The potential has been validated and— with some careful consideration to online deals, and creatively addressing delivery costs—there is an opportunity for retailers to differentiate and gain market share. " Despite the growing hesitancy around sharing personal information, loyalty programmes remain central to retail success – but the trust gap

persists. While 21% of consumers say loyalty cards make them more likely to shop with a retailer, just one in ten (11%) believe that prices offered through loyalty cards are a lot lower. This highlights consumer scepticism in loyalty schemes, despite their importance in driving shopper retention.

S u p e r m a r ke t s h av e a s t r o n g foothold in loyalty programme participation, with 82% of Brits holding a loyalty card and 77% using it every time they shop.

Restaurants and cafes follow while sectors like home/DIY stores lag, with just 18% holding a loyalty card for and 57% using the card consistently. Petrol stations and salons see even lower engagement,

suggesting opportunities for growth in these areas.

Kyle concludes, “Consumers today are increasingly aware of how loyalty schemes work - and quick to notice when they don’t receive the deals they expect. This makes getting loyalty programmes right essential for retailers. What’s key here is trust: loyalty programmes act as a bridge between retailers and customers but for that bridge to hold, it must be built on transparency, authenticity and genuine value. While investing in loyalty initiatives can be costly, the greater risk is in neglecting them, leading to a loss of customer confidence.”

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Luxury chocolates that are ‘good for you’!

“My prognosis was extremely bleak, my parents were told I would never be able to walk or talk, or be able to retain any information, so going to school would be futile. Fast forward 20 years, facing many setbacks, struggles, and faced with constant negativity along the way, I achieved a 2:1 BA HONS in Forensic Science. A few years later I studied Business Management with the Open University whilst on maternity leave, achieving a Distinction. I started my own business and 4 years later I married the head pastry chef of The Royal Vicky Ellis is MD and co-founder of Ben Ellis Pastry Chef Hospital Chelsea. Shortly after, I & Chocolatier. The firm specialise in producing luxury was diagnosed with cancer. Two years later whilst in remission I chocolate with natural non-harmful ingredients. fell pregnant again. Faced with a Vicky’s husband Ben is a world-class to be taken seriously, but I also must life living off benefits, we decided Master Chocolatier pioneering the contend with being disabled! I am 41 to pool our respective resources creation of exceptional chocolate and have 24 chronic life limiting or and start a business to give us the that tastes phenomenal and is lifelong illnesses including epilepsy, income we needed to survive and exceedingly low in salts, fats, multiple strokes, paralysis, severe the freedom of working whilst sugars, and carbs so can be enjoyed anxiety, chronic short term memory taking care of my complex health. by everyone including those on a loss, fatigue, and a growing brain super restricted diet or committed tumour; I was paralysed because of a Two years ago, I was in a wheelchair to a healthy lifestyle. They are also severe skull fracture from an RTC as most of the time or bed bound seriously nutritious and have 60% a toddler and suffered brain damage from pain, inflammation, and fewer calories than other chocolates so significant there is absolutely weak muscles. I had no idea at due to using the finest Belgian no activity in the left hemisphere the time that it was all attributed to the ultra-processed food I was chocolate and fresh raw ingredients of my brain. eating and many food intolerances in the form of fresh purees, freshly that aged weakened and stressed squeezed juices, whole pieces, or my muscles and organs. I cut out water infusion, instead of artificial biscuits, cakes, and sweets, and flavours, cream, and sugar. now exclusively eat the chocolates t h a t B e n p ro d u c e s i f I w a n t “I have been told that I can’t do some something sweet. I’ve not needed things, it’s made me into a high my wheelchair in 18 months, I’m functioning business warrior,” Vicky completely free from pain, and explained. “I have always found as a bonus I’ve lost 3 stone and that being a very intelligent and counting. capable woman was never enough

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Start your year the right way with Kalm Make your wellbeing your priority with Kalm. in 2025 and let us be your place to achieve a balanced lifestyle and fulfil your goals.

With our thoughtfully curated classes, events, sauna and ice bath treatments and a holistic approach, we’re here to support your physical, mental, and emotional health every step of the way.

Whether you’re taking up Pilates to strengthen and tone your body, meditate in the calming embrace of a sound bath, or indulge in a healthy, yet delicious meal, Kalm. provides

the perfect environment to help you thrive amongst like-minded people.

lifestyle that feels good and works for you.

Our signature events, such as Pilates and Pancakes, offer more than just exercise—they’re opportunities to connect, recharge, and pamper yourself.

Whether you choose our individual class passes, or monthly memberships, you’ll find the tools and community to make 2024 your healthiest and happiest year yet.

Enjoy a revitalising class, savour a nourishing brunch, treat yourself to a sound bath and spend the afternoon in the company of amazing women who are motivated to grow and succeed.

Ready to begin? Your wellness journey starts here!

At Kalm, wellness isn’t just about ticking boxes - it’s about creating a

6 Commercial St, Brighouse HD6 1AQ. https://kalm.world/

Join us at Kalm and take the first step towards your best self.

Make 2025 ALL ABOUT YOU!

Production Light & Sound wishes you a very happy festive season and all the best for 2025 0113 236 0951

www.productionlightandsound.com

Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 21

Active vs Passive: What’s right for you?

Active or passive investment management: which should you choose? It’s been an ongoing debate for decades with passive investing becoming increasingly popular since the mid-1990s. Yet while both have their merits, we firmly believe in the distinct advantages of active investment management. Here’s why.

Pe rsonalised investme nt strategies: The sweeter service Imagine having your very own personal chef. They understand your tastes, dietary needs, and preferences. They craft meals specifically for you, ensuring each dish is perfectly suited to your palate.

That’s what our active investment managers do for your investments; they actively make decisions based on your unique wants and needs to develop your perfect portfolio.

Want to focus on growth? Your investment manager can help

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you do just that. Prefer a more conservative approach? That can easily be arranged. Interested in responsible investment?

Your investment manager can implement ESG screening to filter investments based on your individual preferences, values or ethics, or screening out entire sectors (EG munitions).

Unlike passive management – which acts like a buffet catering to the general public – active management adapts to changing market conditions and your evolving needs, making the

service that much sweeter.

Risk Management: The allergy alert Not all investments are good for you. Like a personal chef who avoids ingredients that might cause an allergic reaction, your investment manager is always on the lookout to avoid investment decisions that may leave a sour taste in your mouth.

Active managers have the flexibility to respond to market volatility and economic changes, adjusting your portfolio to mitigate risk, protect against downturns, and seize emerging opportunities – and stop you from making decisions that you may regret.

Studies have shown that active managers tend to perform better during periods of market volatility.

Professional knowledge and experience

helps our investment managers to avoid common pitfalls that afflict many retail investors, such as exuberantly chasing overvalued stocks that are the hot new thing or selling into capitulation lows in a fit of panic. For example, during the market turbulence of 2022, active managers were able to adjust their portfolios to mitigate losses and capitalise on short-term opportunities.

Our investment managers are also supported by one of the largest in-house research teams in the discretionary industry. Our 22-strong team of equity, fixed interest and collective (find) analysts has direct access to the management of listed companies and to managers of funds we invest in, giving us unique insights and investment opportunities.

Expertise and Insight: The culinary masters

Long-Term Focus: The health plan

Finding the perfect investment manager is like hiring a culinary master who has spent their career perfecting recipes and understanding flavours.

Our experts analyse market trends, economic indicators, and individual securities to help prevent impulsive financial decisions that could have longlasting effects – a service not offered in passive management.

In 2022, certain sectors like energy and commodities saw significant gains. Active managers who had the flexibility to overweight these sectors outperformed passive indices that had a broader, more diversified exposure.

A personal chef isn’t just focused on tonight’s dinner; they’re thinking about your long-term health. Similarly, our active investment managers help you achieve your long-term financial goals, rather than what can only be seen in the here and now.

We work closely with you to understand your aspirations, whether it’s saving for retirement, building an inheritance pot, or preserving wealth. We also have in-house wealth managers, who can provide forward-looking advice.

Whether you’re looking to protect wealth, grow your investment or prepare for life’s important events, the support and expertise of a wealth manager or adviser will help you

make the most of your money. This personalised attention ensures that your investment strategy aligns with your goals, providing a more holistic approach to wealth management.

Conclusion Choosing between active and passive investment management is much like deciding between a highly qualified personal chef and a buffet. Both can yield results, but the care, attention, and expertise of a personal chef – or in this case a Quilter Cheviot investment manager – can transform your financial landscape into the perfect recipe tailored to your unique needs and aspirations.

Active management isn’t just about chasing higher returns; it’s about crafting a personalised strategy that evolves with you, navigating the twists and turns of the market with agility and insight. It’s about having a resolute partner who understands your financial goals and works tirelessly to help you achieve them, providing peace of mind and a sense of security in an ever-changing world.

Get started with a complimentary initial consultation with one of our Financial Planners Vanessa Eve Vanessa.Eve@quiltercheviot.com Investors should remember that the value of investments, and the income from them, can go down as well as up and that past performance is no guarantee of

future returns. You may not recover what you invest. This document is not intended to constitute financial advice. If you are in any doubt as to its contents you should seek independent financial advice.

Investments and investment services referred to may not be suitable for all recipients.

Quilter Cheviot and Quilter Cheviot Investment Management are trading names of Quilter Cheviot Limited. Quilter Cheviot Limited is registered in England 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 and 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.

Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 23

Have a Ball and tackle the Digital Divide in 2025

The Leeds Digital Ball returns to The Royal Armouries on the 12th of June 2025, bringing over 500 members of the vibrant digital and tech community together to raise vital funding for community projects, all while making loads of new connections and having a ball!

Launched in 2021, the Ball has already raised a whopping £225,000. 2024 was a sellout event, raising £65,000 for the Leeds Digital Inclusion Fund in one fun filled night.

The Leeds Digital Inclusion Fund, established in 2022 by Leeds Community Foundation, 100% Digital Leeds and Leeds Digital Ball, aims to tackle digital exclusion head on, providing individuals and communities with essential skills, support, and equipment to actively participate in the digital world.

Sandra Patel, co-chair and founder said: “The increasing demand for funding and support makes the Ball Board determined to raise even more funds next year. The Digital Ball 2025 will have a brand-new look and feel and is set to be an evening to remember! We

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really hope the tech and digital sector will continue their amazing support and join us for a fun filled evening in aid of this important cause.”

Cleveland Henry, chair of Leeds Community Foundation said: “The demand for funding this year has been greater than ever with Leeds Community Foundation receiving 48 strong applications and calls for support. We are truly grateful for our partnership with 100% Digital Leeds and Leeds Digital Ball who are offering a long-term commitment to raise funds year on year to support Community Organisations who are working with those who face the greatest degree of digital exclusion.”

Eve Maloba, project manager at Complete Woman, one of the funded organisations said: “Digital

inclusion is far more than just access to technology, it’s about ensuring equality of opportunity to enable everyone to fully participate in our society. Our Leeds Digital Inclusion Fund grant will allow us to continue our digital hub to support and empower refugee and asylum-seeking women and their families in Leeds who are navigating extremely challenging circumstances and are in vital need of digital access and support.”

A great night out, while doing a very good thing. What’s not to like. If you'd like to be part of the solution, get your tickets, or sponsor the ball today and help raise funds for an excellent cause. For information on sponsorship, tickets or tables please email: info@ leedsdigitalball.org For any businesses or individuals who are interested in supporting and investing in digital inclusion across Leeds, contact Leeds Community Foundation (www. leedscf.org.uk) to learn more about how you can play your part.

Euan Shaw, Personal Development Tutor at Kirklees College said: “It has been a pleasure working with Lloyds to arrange work placements for our Business and Digital T Level students.

Kirklees College T Level students celebrate placement with Lloyds Banking Group In October, students from Kirklees College’s Digital and Business T Level groups were invited to Lloyds Banking’s offices in Leeds for a celebration event to mark completing their placements.

The paid placements, which included a three-week bootcamp in March and a longer period over summer, allowed students to work within the digital, finance and business team at Lloyd’s.

As a major employer and recently commended T Level Employer of

the Year for West Yorkshire, these placements with Lloyds were an incredible opportunity for these young people to experience what it is like working for a big business.

At the event, students from Kirklees College’s Digital and Business T Level groups presented together respectively, each commenting on the technical skills the placement had given them, the way their confidence in the workplace had grown as a result of the placement and thanked the other students and colleagues at Lloyds for their support.

Students described some of the fantastic opportunities that they have been given during placement, including presenting to Lloyds’ senior management, using complex software systems to analyse data, and rotating around different business functions to gain a comprehensive view of Lloyds processes and procedures.”

Lloyd’s will also be offering apprenticeship opportunities to successful T Level students.

To find out more about T Levels at Kirklees College, visit www.kirkleescollege. ac.uk/t-levels.

TikTok Star launches Xscape Yorkshire’s ‘Busk Stop’ “It gives local singers and musicians an opportunity to play to a big walk-by audience and showcase their talent. As well as being great for aspiring talent in our region it of course adds another layer of musical entertainment for our guests.

Yorkshire Busker and TikTok Star Liv Harland has launched a new performance initiative at Xscape Yorkshire.

The singer unveiled the centre’s ‘Busk Stop’ which, for the first time, will allow buskers to perform inside the centre at a dedicated spot.

The Busk Stop has been created following requests from buskers wanting to perform at the centre and gives local talent a free-to-use designated safe place and focal point.

Following the free gig by Yorkshireborn singer songwriter Liv, who has amassed more than 4m followers on Instagram and TikTok, the

Busk Stop will be open for buskers to use.

Jason Warren, centre director said: “After receiving direct requests from performers wanting to come and busk at Xscape, it’s exciting to be able to now offer a free-to-use designated safe place and focal point at our centre.

“We were honoured to officially launch our Busk Stop with an incredible performance by Liv Harland who set the tone perfectly.” Buskers can use the Busk Stop free-of-charge on an ongoing basis.

For more information about booking a slot, visit: https:// xscapeyorkshire.co.uk/ Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 25

Award-winning Mexican food is taking over Yorkshire

Mexi Bean, the award-winning Mexican restaurant chain that has become a local favourite in Brighouse, Huddersfield, Halifax and Manchester, is expanding the menu with even more bold flavours and delicious items such as the Nacho Dawg hot dog.

Launching this month, the new me nu i nt r o duc e s e ve n mor e delicious options to satisfy every craving, including three brand new food challenges.

Diners can test their might by tack ling a massive bu r r ito, devouring 25 tacos, or braving 12 insanely fiery wings. Winners

will earn a coveted spot on the restaurant’s Wall of Fame and a Mexi Bean goody bag packed with surprises.

Mexi Bean also announced that they teamed up w ith the C o m m u n i t y Fo u n d a t i o n f o r Ca lderda le a nd established a dedicated fund to support local

charities and initiatives in the areas where their restaurants are located.

The company’s founder Danielle Best says: ‘When you dine at Mexi Bean, you’re not just enjoying the vibrant flavours of Mexico - you’re becoming part of a broader effort to build stronger, more connected communities.

Together, with your support, we can make a lasting impact where it’s needed most. E ver y taco, burrito, and fajita you savour helps to fuel this mission.’

Perfect for foodies, families, and thrill-seekers, Mexi Bean continues to set the standard for exceptional service and unforgettable dining experiences.

Visit you r nea rest Mex i Bea n location or bring the fiesta to your doorstep by ordering online today! mexibeanexpress.com

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The partnership will see virtualDCS employees actively participating in volunteer days and an ongoing project to transform the meadow area at Hollybush Conservation Centre in Leeds, a key site for TCV. The first volunteer day took place on 9 October, with four members of the virtualDCS team – including CEO Richard May – leading the charge. The company has already raised approximately £1,200, which will be donated to support this project and future TCV initiatives.

L-R: Col, Tom, Alex, Jeniya, Richard

VirtualDCS selects The Conservation Volunteers as charity of the year VirtualDCS, the Leeds-based cloud service provider (CSP) and business continuity specialist , has proud ly announced its charity par t nership with The ConservationVolunteers(TCV), naming the organisation as its charity of the year.

TCV, a not-for-profit group dedicated to environmental education and conservation, works to create, improve, and care for green spaces across the UK. Through this collaboration, virtualDCS aims to support TCV’s vital work in promoting health and wellbeing, environmental preservation, and community development.

virtualDCS’s growth over the past year has enabled the company to establish a more structured corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategy. With a growing team of 24 employees and new business opportunities with Veeam® generating an additional £1 million annually, the company is now able to make a sustained commitment to charitable causes.

Company of the Month

Experience a feast of colour and creativity to light up your festive season.

Luminous installations. Playful adventures. Uplifting crafts.

Festive dining. Christmas gifts.

All grounded in the art, nature and landmarks of Yorkshire Sculpture Park’s 500 acres.

9 November 2024 – 5 January 2025 Plan your visit: ysp.org.uk/wild-yuletide Yorkshire Sculpture Park West Bretton, Wakefield WF4 4LG YSP is an accredited museum and registered charity, number 1067908.

Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 27

'The Little Hub' secures £20,000 in National Lottery funding history Wakefield-based community group, ‘The Little Hub’ is how much my mental health was celebrating after being awarded almost £20,000 in affected.

National Lottery funding to support its work with local “With many SureStart centres having women and mothers.

The hub was founded by ex-primary school teacher and mum-of-two, Corinna Nicol, from Wakefield, and has grown from humble beginnings into a vibrant community space, offering workshops and support sessions for families across the district.

p a ssion for supp or t i n g lo c a l parents, especially mothers, stems from her own experience of feeling isolated and alone after becoming a mother.

Corinna explains; "When I had my first baby in 2013, I felt incredibly isolated and alone. I was struggling Corinna founded ‘The Little Hub’ with postnatal depression, though after searching for a permanent I didn’t realise it at the time, but I space to hold her baby massage constantly feel like I wasn’t doing classes, following her decision enough as a mum. My baby didn’t to leave her teaching career. Her sleep, and looking back, it’s clear

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closed and not wanting to bother my GP, I felt I had nowhere to go or anyone to really turn to, other than close family members - who in all honesty, at the time didn’t truly understand. I remember attending a yoga class and the yoga teacher saying to me; ‘you’re doing a really good job - well done mama!’ - even now, almost a decade later, I get emotional thinking about it, because her ‘off the cuff remark’ meant so much to me - it literally was a game-changer and from that moment, I realised that I was going to be ok and I could do this mummy thing!”

“When our second baby arrived in 2015, I had built a stronger community of mum friends through my first daughter’s preschool, and that made navigating motherhood a second time around much easier. I realised that there’s truly a transformative power in having a supportive community and network and this ignited a passion in me to work with parents.”

Now, thanks to National Lottery players we will be able to press on with our plans to broaden the range of opportunities available to local children and their parents..

This funding will also enable The Little Hub to offer more activities for women and mothers, introducing support sessions focused on helping parents, particularly mums, with t heir menta l hea lt h, to for m connections, share their experiences, and develop a supportive network.

Sustainable

So, in 2017, Corinna left her teaching C o r i n n a c o n t i n u e s : “ We ’ r e career, having worked as a primary delighted that The National Lottery school teacher for over 12 years. Community Fund has recognised She knew she wanted to build a our work in this way. Now, thanks community and do what she could to National Lottery players we will to support local parents. She initially be able to press on with our plans to trained as a Baby Massage Teacher, broaden the range of opportunities she said; “I had zero idea of how available to local children and their to run a business, but started one parents. I am particularly passionate anyway, because I had a mission and about supporting maternal mental passion. I worked hard, replaced and health and looking to reach out to exceeded my teaching salary within 6 more parents, particularly mums, months. And so much has happened across the Wakefield District and since then, and it feels like another beyond.” lifetime, but it was still the best thing I ever did. I will always be grateful The National Lottery Community to all those lovely ladies who came Fund recently launched its strategy, to my first Baby Massage classes.” ‘It starts with community’, which will underpin its efforts to distribute ‘The Little Hub’, is now a Community at least £4 billion of National Lottery Interest Company (CIC) and has a funding by 2030. team of volunteers, paid facilitators and the online Facebook Group has As part of this, the funder has four over 700 active parents. key missions, which are to support communities to come together, be The group currently hosts various environmentally sustainable, help classes and workshops for mums, children and young people thrive children and babies. The sessions and enable people to live healthier help the children and their parents lives. to make connections, while learning new skills and having fun. The new National Lottery players raise over funding from The National Lottery £30 million a week for good causes Community Fund, which distributes across the UK. Thanks to them, money raised by National Lottery last year (2023/24) The National players for good causes and is the Lottery Community Fund awarded largest community funder in the over half a billion pounds (£686.3 UK, will see these sessions expand, million) of life-changing funding meaning that more local families to communities across the UK, will benefit from a plethora of free supporting over 13,700 projects activities. to turn their great ideas into reality.

Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 29

Yorkshire businesswoman aims to blend her work and life, while making midlife matter Images: Mary Davies Photography

When it comes to trying something new, Tina Boden, a 56-year-old Yorkshire Coast based businesswoman, is not afraid of rising to the challenge.

She bought her first business with her Mum at the age of 21, a property letting and management agency, having worked in her parent’s hospitality business before that.

Since then, she has built and exited businesses in the property, retail, hospitality and consultancy sectors with both great success and some not-so-impressive outcomes. ‘Being your own boss, building brands and businesses from scratch is hard work.

You need a roll your sleeves-up-andget-on-with-it attitude and cannot be afraid of having to deal with the unknown’ Tina states.

Now Tina works with independent business owners to help improve their work life blend and ensure they are making midlife matter. ‘Forget work life balance, that is nearly

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currently Trustee of Sparks Project, a Scarborough based charity that helps people living in some of the most deprived communities in the UK both practically and emotionally.

In 2012, Tina co-founded and cofunded, with Tony Robinson OBE, #MicroBizMatters, a movement that campaigned nationally to make life in micro business better. From 2015 to 2021, Tina and Tony hosted #MicroBizMatters Day, an online and offline day of recognition, action and learning for micro business owners everywhere. They stepped down from their micro business campaigning in 2022. Tina knows how important it is to come forward and speak up if you want to bring about change or make a difference for yourself and others and is not afraid to have her voice heard.

‘I really couldn’t have imagined at the beginning of this year finding myself doing what I am doing now though’ shares Tina.

‘In November 2 019 I stepped completely out of my comfort zone and modelled for Jayne Winn of Sheer Bliss Lingerie in Knaresborough. I have no problem standing on a stage in front of an Auditorium full of a few hundred people, but, back then, the thought of strutting around the Hotel Du Vin, Harrogate, in bra and knickers made me weak at the knees’ Tina shared. ‘The event was Over the past three decades or more, raising money for the Sir Robert Tina has not just spent time running Ogden Macmillan Centre and some her businesses, bringing up two people taking part were faced with sons, being a wife, dealing with life limiting illness. I gave myself a the usual day-to-day happenings of talking to and got on with it. Turns life and now helping with her three out it was very empowering and I grandchildren, she has also given wanted to do it all again’. some of her time back to charities and good causes and helped create legacy In May this year, when her friend charities and funds for families Rachel Peru, another Yorkshire and friends of loved ones whose Businesswoman who started curve life has been taken too soon. She is modelling at the age of 46, invited impossible to achieve, especially when you own your own business’ states Tina ‘it is all about how you blend work and life together to reduce the impact on your mental, sometimes physical health, and increase the time you spend doing the things you enjoy, whether that is in work or in life’.

Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 31

she passed away in December 2021.

Mandy and I were the same age. A quote she loved was “You can’t add days to your life, but you can add life to your days”. I decided to add modelling to my bucket list and in August was accepted by Salt and Pepper Models, a Bath based agency specialising in later-life models.’

Tina knew she needed a portfolio of images to pitch to modelling agencies.

As luck would have it, Charlotte Clemie, another Yorkshire based businesswoman, was holding a location shoot in Mallorca in July.

It coincided with Tina’s son and daughter-in-law getting married on the island. Charlotte not only specialises in model and wedding photography but is one of the United Kingdom’s leading pageant photographers. ‘I have mentored Holly Pirrie, owner of The Dress Studio and Pageant Girl UK, based near Warrington, for 18 months’ Tina shared. ‘Holly and Charlotte are good friends and they came together to encourage me to enter Mrs Galaxy U K . Wit h my #bemorema ndy attitude and a portfolio of fabulous photographs I submitted my entry and found myself becoming Mrs North Yorkshire Galaxy 24/25.’

Tina to walk in the ‘My Generation’ they have and how difficult it can be Runway Show during York Fashion sharing content, especially on social Week, she said yes. ‘I have come media, because people do not relate to realise over recent years as a with what they see’. naturally grey, 5ft 3 woman in my 50s, who has been through surgically ‘I have a F u n, Happiness a nd enforced menopause, how under Adventure Bucket List, this list represented people like me are in helps me ensure I am making midlife brand and business marketing. Some matter, not only for myself but for of my clients and friends are in the others as well. One of the legacy fashion, accessories, hair and beauty funds I was involved with was for a industries. They have discussed with good friend of mine, Mandy Taylor me how images they receive from MBE. She created the legacy she brands do not reflect the client base wanted, #bemoremandy, before

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Tina is using her time until the Mrs Galaxy UK final in late March 2025 to promote independent businesses across North Yorkshire and North Yorkshire as a great place to stay, play, work and visit. She will also be fundraising for Yorkshire Cancer Research, a charity she worked with during her time as Trustee of Ellie’s Fund – Brain Tumour Trust. ‘I want to take this opportunity to show those in midlife, between their early 40’s and mid 60’s, that we are never too old and it is never too late.

Many people do not get the chance to enjoy midlife and we need to make

it matter. Blending my work and life seemed like the perfect way to embrace and enjoy my time as Mrs North Yorkshire Galaxy 24/25. I already have the most beautiful gown for the evening wear category of the final that North Yorkshire designer Isabelle Randall created. Isabelle is part of The Making Midlife Matter Collective I have brought together to support, promote, buy from and appreciate each other.’

Tina ensured the Reveal Photoshoot she organised started the North

Yorkshire independent business Hall Hotel in Scalby, Scarborough. ow ner col labor at ion w it h a n ‘Bringing business owners together opportunit y to promote those is something I do a lot of and involved. Jayne Winn of Sheer enjoy’ Tina shares. ‘I never miss Bliss, Knaresborough provided an opportunity to promote those the swimwear, Isabelle Randall the that support me and I regularly evening gown, Natalia Willmott the encourage collaboration amongst jewellery, Tamra Marshall of Vu business owners who, I believe, Boutique, Scarborough the casual have complimentary products or wear, Clare Flint the makeup, Mary services. We had such fun doing Davies the photography and Stacey the shoot and some of the ladies Jenkinson, Tina’s daughter-in-law, involved are now working on other of Tete a Tete, Scarborough was ideas together, this fills me with the hairstylist. The evening gown joy, a key part of what my work life shots were taken at Wrea Head blend is all about.’

Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 33

Yorkshire Businesswoman Awards 2025

It’s just three months before the second Yorkshire Businesswoman Awards on 7th March gets underway and we are pleased that all the award categories are now sponsored except for programme sponsor which is still available. If you are interested in getting your business name and logo in front of all our guests, do let us know on

Entries for nominations are free and you have just a short time now to nominate the business lady you think is most deserving.

All nominations will then be sent to our Judges who will select winners from each category, to be announced on the night.

•

• • • •

To nominate or purchase a ticket visit www. yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk

•

We are thrilled to announce that almost all 2024 sponsors have returned for a second year as well as welcoming some new.

•

Main sponsors are:

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• • • • • • • •

Headline sponsor – Chadwick Lawrence LLP Lloyds Bank HSBC Bank First Direct Arena Fantastic Media Quilter Cheviot Huddersfield Town FC The Royal Armouries

Anyone interested in becoming a main sponsor can contact Gill Laidler on editor@ yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk or call 07711 539047

Category sponsors are: •

Equality & diversity: Yorkshire Asian Business Association

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•

•

• •

Women in Health: Angie Khrupe – Women in Healthcare Small Business of the Year HSBC Bank New Business: Ad:Venture The Mandy Taylor Award: Grantley Hall Lifetime Achievement: Dakota Hotel Leeds Charity of the Year: Bespoke by Dr Bejima Yorkshire Businesswoman of the Year: Chadwick Lawrence LLP Rising Star Lloyds Bank Women in Digital: Bruntwood Tech Social Media: Gino D’Acampo Restaurant Large Business of the Year: Leeds University Business School

Joining us for the second year is: • Drinks sponsor Masons Gin Venue partner • Leeds Marriott Hotel • Event partner • Jane Clynes Events • Digital marketing • YouBee Media • Entertainment • Live Band Entertainment and NVLand; production and

• • • • • •

lighting, Production Light & Sound Launch event partner First Direct Arena Diamond sponsor Phillip Stoner Jewellers Media and ticket partner Bauer Media.

All judges have once again returned with the addition of Eleanor Baker from Lloyds Bank.

This year we also have a number of table sponsors, these include: Intandem Communications; Holden Smith; James Ray; Blossom Training; Sure Care Calderdale and Transition Partners.

For a second year our main host for the evening in March is the talented presenter Danni Hewson. The charity benefitting from the 2025 event will be Smart Works Leeds.

Smart Works Leeds support women from a range of different backgrounds and age groups back into employment by providing coaching so they feel more confident and start believing in their own ability to succeed.

They also provide high-quality interview-appropriate clothing, shoes and accessories (theirs to keep) to wear for their job interview, and high-quality work-appropriate clothing, shoes and accessories when they get the job.

If anyone is interested in volunteering on the night, please do get in touch.Keep your eye on our social media channels for updates over the next few weeks.

Judges 2025:

Host 2025:

Danni Hewson

Head of Financial Analysis - AJ Bell

Eleanor Baker

Women entrepreneurs lead, social sustainability

HUDDERSFIELD TOWN

Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 35

Rural women share stories of stepping into agriculture Four successful women whose diverse backgrounds have all led them to agriculture and its allied industries, shared their inspiring journeys at the flagship Autumn Gathering of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society’s Women In Farming Network.

From switching classroom for farmyard to fleeing war, messages of resilience and determination to succeed dominated the discussions at Hornington Manor near York yesterday (Tuesday 8th October).

The Women In Farming Network brings together rural women from across the county in the spirit of professional development and support. Its Autumn Gathering, sponsored by Barclays and Savills and now in its 11th year, is an annual opportunity for this community to renew acquaintances and make new connections.

Clare Wise, a mixed farmer from County Durham who farms sheep, cattle and arable, returned home to run her fifth-generation family

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Don’t undervalue every small effort you make.

If you keep putting your efforts into the same place, you will end up with a good value...

farm after 17 years away, having pursued a career in retail and food processing.

A growing desire to return to the family farm saw Clare return home and she went about evolving the farm business. Within five years, every building on the farm had been rebuilt or repurposed, the pedigree sheep flock was replaced with a 500head commercial flock, utilising New Zealand genetics, and grasslands were reintroduced.

Clare, a mother of three, is now a member of the National Farmers’ Union Livestock Board which gives her the scope to influence government policy. She is also actively involved in educational initiatives, including the Yorkshire Agricultural Society’s Countryside Days. Clare said: “Make sure whatever you do in life, your soul if full and it is a life well lived.”

Lynsey Pack shared her career journey, from leaving school without A-Levels, to a 15-year stint in the medical device industry before going on to lead charitable initiatives at the Yorkshire Agricultural Society.

Lynsey told of the transformative effect a mentor had on her early in her career, saying: “I was incredibly lucky to have a fantastic mentor. She not only taught me how to do the job, I credit her for making me a more compassionate person and the leader I am today.”

Razan Alsous told of founding Yo r k s h i r e D a m a C h e e s e in Huddersfield, having fled with her family from her native Syria for refuge in Britain in 2012. Razan had been studying pharmacology but the need to support her family saw her launch her cheesemaking business in 2014 with the help of a £2,500 start-up loan from the local enterprise agency.

Women In Farming Autumn Gathering (l-r) Lynsey Pack, Razan Alsous, Elizabeth Nelson from Savills, Sophie McCandlish, Lucy Guest from Barclays, Millie Witty, Clare Wise

Razan has gone on to win a series of high-profile awards, contracts to supply major retailers, and has appeared on TV alongside Yorkshire chef James Martin.

Drawing on her entrepreneurial journey to offer encouragement to others, she said: “Don’t undervalue every small effort you make. If you keep putting your efforts into the same place, you will end up with a good value.”

Millie Witty told of swapping teaching Spanish in a Manchester secondary school to working on an organic beef and lamb farm near Masham.

Having helped out at her uncle’s farm previously, Millie was asked to join the farm team full time. Despite considerable initial doubt, she gave it a go and a year in, she said: “I have learned so much. When that little voice is in your head saying, “should

I do it?”, you should listen to it and go for it.”

Millie is honing her agricultural skills as part of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society’s Goodall Agri-Development Pathway which helps younger people working in the industry to develop professionally. She said: “The Pathway has been amazing. I would recommend it to anyone. It’s about getting to know your strengths, leadership, communication, and the people I have met have been a great support network.”

The Goodall Agri-Development Pathway is a fully funded training programme to support the development of farming’s next generation. Applications are open until 30th November to those aged 23 to 40 for the next round of the scheme.

See yas.co.uk for details.

The Women In Farming Autumn

Gathering ended with a tour of the working farm that surrounds Hornington Manor. Owned by Leedsbased bedmaker Harrison Spinks, materials from the farm are used natural fillings in their mattresses.

The Women In Farming Network was created in 2013 as an initiative of the Yorkshire Rural Support Network at the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, following requests from women living and working on farms and related industries.

The Network holds a rolling programme of events to bring the community together and hosts a private Yorkshire Women In Farming Facebook group of more than 700 members to keep conversations and support going all year round.

Fo r m o re d e ta i l s , v i s i t yas.co.uk.

Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 37

STADA Thornton & Ross appoints new vice president of marketing and commercial excellence

One of the UK’s fastest growing pharmaceutical manufacturers, Huddersfield-based STADA Thornton & Ross, part of the global STADA Group, has announced the appointment of Clare Furlonger as its new vice president of marketing and commercial excellence, as it aims to further build the business’s consumer healthcare portfolio.

Headquartered in Slaithwaite, with a production site in Linthwaite, STADA Thornton & Ross is the company behind some of the UK's most loved household brands, including Zoflora®, Covonia®, and Savlon®.

With over 100 years of history in Yorkshire, the company has the power of global enterprise STADA behind the strong manufacturing capabilities of Thornton & Ross, from right in the heart of Yorkshire.

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As the new vice president of marketing and commercial excellence, Clare will be responsible for leading the growth of the consumer healthcare portfolio for STADA UK. Her role will involve building and developing a team of marketing, insight, innovation and commercial excellence experts, alongside the development of transformation growth plans for the consumer healthcare brands.

Clare brings over 25 years of FMCG and healthcare experience to the role, having begun her career studying pharmacology.

Her early experience was with Boots Healthcare International, working across leading brands such as Nurofen®, Strepsils®, E45, Clearasil®, and Optrex™.

Prior to joining STADA Thornton & Ross, Clare worked as a brand director at FMCG goods firm, All About Food, developing brands such as Nando’s, Costa Coffee, Pizza Express, Pret A Manger, and Wagamama, into leading positions in their respective categories.

Speaking about her appointment, Clare said: "I was drawn to this entrepreneurial and dynamic business with its deep commitment to caring for people. The opportunity to work with such an iconic portfolio of great British brands and to be part of a company that not only works on a global scale, but also manufactures many of them here in Yorkshire, is incredibly exciting.

Confident "Over the next few years, our focus is on nurturing and growing our heritage brands, while introducing innovative, new products that align with our commitment to quality and care. It’s about celebrating our great British roots while embracing opportunities to expand and diversify."

Nigel Stephenson, general manager said: “I’m really pleased to welcome Clare to the company. Her previous track record of success is very exciting, and I’m looking forward to the experience and knowledge she will bring to the role.

“With her leadership, we are confident in continuing to build on our strengths as a dedicated manufacturer of trusted, high-quality healthcare and pharma products. It’s exciting to see how Clare will help drive our growth to higher heights soon.”

STADA Thornton & Ross has been operating in Huddersfield for over a century and was acquired by the STADA Group in 2013. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, STADA Thornton & Ross remains a key player in the UK pharmaceutical market, known for its trusted products and dedication to healthcare.

Chapter one completed!

Whitby Literature Festival celebrates successful business launch Around 30 businesses and supporters celebrated the launch of the first official event of the Whitby Literature Festival recently.

The evening saw businesses, venues, schools, organisations and residents come together to learn more about the new literary festival - and how to get involved.

Representatives from Whitby’s art gallery, museums, schools, shops, venues, hotels, and businesses joined the event, along with literary and literacy organisations and authors.

The Discovery event, hosted by Whitby restaurant and wedding venue, Hetty & Betty, included a presentation for the local community.

The Whitby Bookshop owner and steering group member Fiona Duncan said it had been a positive launch and a great way to start the festival.

Festival director Lois Kirtlan, managing director at Hetty & Betty, said: “We were really pleased with the turnout. There is so much enthusiasm and appetite for a Literature Festival in Whitby, and the Business Launch certainly showed that.”

The first Whitby Lit Fest, inspired by the harbour town’s connections to famous writers, was held from 6th to 9th November 2025 at venues in the area.

Adele Duffield, steering group member and Whitby Library Outreach librarian, described the evening as “a great success.”

Steering group member James Wallis of North Yorkshire Council – which is supporting the Whitby Lit Fest – said: “We’re delighted to be part of something that’s generating so much enthusiasm.”Whitby is perhaps best known for its link to Bram Stoker’s Dracula. But is has many other literary associations, from Lewis Carol and Charles Dickens to the poetry of Caedmon and the works of Elizabeth Gaskell.The Whitby Lit Fest is supported by North Yorkshire Council, Whitby Library, English Heritage, The Whitby Bookshop and Hetty & Betty.

Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 39

Balancing the formal and informal in personal branding

By Roth Read Photography a narrative that captures the essence of a person’s story. And Julie’s vibrant personality and eye-catching outfits truly shone through, striking a balance between her professional edge and her creative, outdoorsy spirit.

Autumn is one of our favourite seasons for client photoshoots, with its rich reds, oranges, and golds creating a stunning natural backdrop. But this beauty is fleeting, and the weather can be unpredictable, especially in the UK. This was certainly the case during our recent photoshoot with Julie Bickerdyke at the Yorkshire Sculpture Park. After postponing twice due to rain, we finally caught a lucky break with a sunny day that highlighted the last of those colourful rustic leaves.

From finance to feng shui Many of you know Julie as this year’s winner of the Yorkshire BusinessWoman Mentor of the Year Award. This well-deserved recognition celebrates her dedication to empowering others, particularly female business owners, by helping them align with their values and achieve their full potential.

The shoot aimed to capture Julie’s dual roles as a CIM A-qualified Finance Director and owner of Moonstone FD, along with her new venture into Feng Shui consulting.

Her unique blend of professionalism a nd f ree -spir ited energ y w as

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something we aimed to bring out in each image.

Essence of personal branding Combining two genres is challenging, but it all comes down to personal branding: authentically presenting a persona through style, colour, body language, posing, lighting, location and meaningful props.

When these elements align, they create

Whilst she selected an outdoor location for its natural beauty, we also captured some headshots in the studio where we had more control of the light – and the weather! This approach provided Julie with a collection of both formal and informal images, that a broad scope of consumers could relate to.

Teamwork A big thank you to the Yorkshire Sculpture Park’s Communications team for their patience and flexibility in coordinating the logistics rescheduling three times wouldn’t have been possible without them.

And thank you to Julie for allowing us to capture her evolving story against such a memorable setting.

Lincoln & Perrin Roth Read Photography www.rothreadphotography.com

Audley Scarcroft Park LUXURY RETIREMENT VILLAGE

Where liberty and luxury meet

Set within 110 acres of beautiful land, and close to Leeds, Audley Scarcroft Park is now open and offers luxury properties in and around the restored Grade II listed building.

Open to the public, Thackaray’s restaurant offers dining in exquisite surroundings, whilst the Audley Club provides luxurious health and leisure facilities.

Find out more audleyvillages. co.uk/leeds 0113 397 1405 Hellwood Lane, Scarcroft, Leeds LS14 3HS

Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 41

Meet Yorkshire Businesswoman member Alka Bohorun Alka Bohorun, a Fellow Chartered Manager and Fellow Chartered Marketer, has a wealth of expertise in strategic management and marketing, particularly in supporting SMEs, spanning more than 21 years.

She holds multiple influential roles, serving as the company secretary and senior manager of a long-standing accountancy firm, as well as the managing director of her own business, which has specialised in strategic marketing and company secretarial services for two decades.

Her business includes services such as forming limited companies, CICs, and charities. Additionally, she is the CEO of bh40 "Be Happy for Nothing," a transformative social enterprise that she launched in 2020. With a team of over 150 people across Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America, bh40 has made remarkable strides in supporting sustainable, independent business development in underresourced communities.

Alka is also a vocal advocate for gender equality and female empowerment. As the UK Country chair for the Financial Empowerment Division of Global 100 Women’s Forum, she drives initiatives that support financial independence for women. She has also joined the Association of Business Mentors (ABM) through the Help to Grow Management programme, where she mentors university students starting their own businesses, offering them essential guidance in management and strategy.

Beyond her professional achievements, Alka is known for her empathy, resilience, and joy for life. She enjoys singing, swimming, dancing, and travelling, and is appreciated for her uplifting presence. She believes deeply in “meeting people where they’re at,” guiding them toward new Bh40 also focuses on urgent social possibilities, and helping them Under Alka's leadership, bh40 issues within the UK, including the harness their potential to create has supported the launch of 57 launch of its recent Yorkshire project, positive change. Her experiences independent small businesses “Drop the Knife—Save a Life,” a have taught her the importance and community projects globally, hard-hitting video production aimed of perseverance and self-reliance, focusing on slum areas and poverty at tackling teen knife crime in the qualities that she strives to instil communities, including orphanages UK. This campaign brings attention in others. in Kenya and Uganda. Bh40 has to the impact of knife crime on also established 25 youth-led communities and families, delivering A devoted born-again Christian, businesses in Nigeria as part of powerful messages to young Alka holds close to her favourite its "Youthpreneurs" scheme, with people about making safer, more scriptures: “The joy of the Lord is my additional projects pending in Ghana positive choices. Alka is particularly strength” (Nehemiah 8:10) and “It is and The Gambia. The organisation honoured that Tyrese Gibson, actor better to give than to receive” (Acts has further extended its reach by and bh40’s official celebrity youth 20:35). Her legacy of compassion and opening Empowerment Centres & children’s ambassador, will speak empowerment continues through in Kenya and Pakistan for women in the upcoming video. Tyrese’s her global team, who are inspired and girls affected by FGM and sex involvement is set to bring significant to become #povertysmasher and trafficking, and in North America, visibility to the campaign, lending a #hurtreliever advocates in their own where the centres address mental global voice to this important UK right, working towards a brighter future for all. initiative. health issues.

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A new social lunch for Yorkshire Businesswomen Dakota, the beautiful boutique hotel in the centre of Leeds, held a festive lunch in late November, partnering with Harvey Nichols and Charlotte Tilbury, hosted by the hotel’s director of sales Debbie Dobson.

Well attended, the event began with welcome drinks in the champagne bar that was beautifully dressed for the festive season, followed by a delicious Christmas lunch in the hotel’s grill.

Laidler, then took their seats for the make-up demonstration by the Charlotte Tilbury team from Harvey Nichols before heading back to the grill for coffee and desserts.

The ladies, including Yorkshire Businesswoman group editor Gill

All guests left with a fabulous goody bag.

“We are going to make this ladies lunch a regular quarterly event,” said Debbie, “so keep an eye out for the next one in February 2025.”

For anyone who missed out, the Dakota Grill is open daily for lunch and dinner and Harvey Nichols have launched their 2024 festive dining menu available from 12 November to 24 December at a special price of £38 for three courses or why not splash out and add a glass of Harvey Nichols Brut Champagne, for an extra £12.

Also, back for 2025 is the popular 50% off all A la Carte dining available from 7th to 31s January for lunch and dinner in the fourth-floor brasserie.

Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 43

True Fulfilment comes from change of career

By Pari Dua - Yorkshire BusinessWoman Member

I never imagined my career would take such a dramatic turn. My lifelong passion for fashion and jewellery had me sourcing exquisite items from around the world for my online business and private clients. It was a fulfilling endeavour that I thought would define my professional life.

Little did I know that a chance introduction would set me on a completely different path.

Five years ago, my brother introduced me to Salima Iqbal with 20 years of experience in Health and Social Care.

Her dedication and insight were immediately inspiring, and she quickly became more than just a mentor.

Driven by her guidance, I decided to immerse myself in her world, undertaking a work placement in her Home Care Company. From providing care and support in people's homes to sitting in on training sessions and assessments, I experienced every facet of the business. It was an entirely new realm with its own language and a deep sense of accountability dictated by legislation and governing bodies.

Rather than being overwhelmed, I felt a newfound passion for ensuring the highest standard of care for the most vulnerable. Whether it was a 30-minute morning visit or arranging a highly trained live-in carer, I was committed

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to making a difference.

My personal life, however, was fraught with challenges. In 2019, I went through a difficult divorce that left me reevaluating my priorities and finding strength in new beginnings. Just as I began to regain my footing, COVID-19 hit. The pandemic brought unprecedented challenges.

With a dwindling workforce, I found myself providing care while managing the business, ensuring compliance, and maintaining safe practices. As managing director, I was responsible for business growth, invoicing, and staff management. The crisis reached a peak when both of my managers left abruptly to start their own company, leaving me mentally and physically exhausted.

During these tumultuous times, my mentor and my kids unwavering support was a lifeline. They kept me focused and determined to succeed, even when the odds were against me. My mentor

became my business partner and my strength, I owe it to her for my success and strength.

In November 2023, my world shifted again when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. The diagnosis was a profound shock. I remember sitting in the doctor’s office, feeling a mix of disbelief and fear. The initial weeks were a blur of appointments, tests, and consultations.

But amidst the fear, I found a renewed sense of purpose. The vulnerability I felt deepened my empathy for those we serve in our care business.

Cancer treatment is a journey fraught with physical and emotional challenges.

The radiation sessions were gruelling, leaving me drained and often too weak to work. Yet, I found solace and strength in the support from my business partner, family, friends, and the incredible team at my company. Their encouragement and understanding allowed me to balance my treatment with my responsibilities as Managing Director.

Today, I am the registered manager, having completed my Leadership and Management Level 5 qualification.

We have three dedicated managers and employ over 50 care and support workers. Our hard work was rewarded with a GOOD rating from the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

As I approach my 50th birthday, I can genuinely say that the care we provide to our community's most vulnerable members—adults and children with complex care needs, older individuals, and those requiring palliative care—is delivered with unparalleled passion and kindness.

Being a registered manager of a home care company, as recognised by the CQC, is more than a title.

It means ensuring compliance

with legal standards, maintaining quality care, and managing staff.

It's a role that demands dedication but brings immense fulfilment.

My journey, marked by personal and professional trials, has only strengthened my resolve to make

a meaningful impact in the lives of those we care for.

Looking back, I see a path filled with unexpected turns and immense growth. From a career in fashion to the healthcare sector, through

personal upheavals and health battles, each step has shaped my commitment to making a difference.

This journey has taught me that true fulfilment comes from serving others, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to do so every day.

Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 45

groups, the three-month, part-time programme will give participants the skills and insight they need to get in and get on in the screen industry.

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: "Our region's screen industries are booming, with more and more productions being set and produced in our iconic villages, towns and cities.

"This programme will open doors for talented writers in West Yorkshire, no matter their personal circumstances - just like our Screen Diversity Programme has for creatives working in production.

"Our new support wil provide the launchpad for local stories to be told on screen for the world to see, boosting our economy as we create a stronger, brighter West Yorkshire."

Mayor Tracy Brabin and Screen Yorkshire have teamed up to catapult the careers of talented writers in West Yorkshire with the launch of a free training initiative.

Writers in West Yorkshire get chance to get in on screen industry 'The Mayor's Script Diversity Programme' will support budding scriptwriters into film and television opportunities through mentorship and a range of specialist

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masterclasses with commissioners and industry experts.

With a focus on breaking down the barriers for underrepresented

Caroline Cooper Charles, chief executive of Screen Yorkshire, said: "Screen Yorkshire is so excited to be delivering the Script Diversity Programme, supporting writers from all genres in their transition to screenwriting through learning from top industry professionals and expanding their networks.

"The support from the Mayor of West Yorkshire is invaluable, allowing us to deepen our impact across West Yorkshire to ensure that our exceptional talent can grow and authentic regional stories can reach audiences across the globe"The proposed plans for the Trinity Kitchen development will be reviewed by Leeds City Council with a decision expected later this year. If approved, works are expected to start in Spring 2025.

Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 47

Record-breaking attempt to row the Atlantic at 59 - solo

A Yorkshire mum is asking businesses to back her recordbreaking attempt to row solo across the Atlantic – and raise money for menopause.

Vivienne Barclay aims to row 3,000 miles from the Canary Islands to Antigua at the age of 59 to inspire other mid-life women. If successful, she will become the oldest woman to complete a solo row of the Atlantic.

she’ll be at sea alone for around 70 days. She expects to row between 12 and 16 hours a day – with only a bucket for a toilet.

Viv, who runs a small business in the Yorkshire Dales making b e e s w a x w r a p s , s ay s : “ I a m V i v i s t a k i n g o n t h e e p i c following in the oar-strokes of a 'Mumentous' challenge as part of group of women who inspired me. the World's Toughest Row 2024/5. In 2016, four mums from Yorkshire Due to set off on 12 December, – The Yorkshire Rows – entered

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the record books by rowing 3,000 miles across the ocean from The Canaries to Antigua. I thought they were fantastic, and I felt tremendously inspired by their achievement.

“I identified with them because I'm a middle-aged mum with no track record of being an ultraendurance athlete - and not a great deal of experience with rowing.

“But, I thought, ‘if they can do it, so can I’. I've given birth twice.

I've survived menopause and any number of life's other challenges.

“I’m using this row to shine a light on the capabilities and achievements of mid-life women. We are relevant, we have value, and we can make a difference to others.”

Viv is raising money for the British Menopause Society and the Menopause Café charities, which support women through providing evidence-based information and accredited training for medical professionals and helping to introduce menopause policies within businesses.

“Regardless of who you are, they provide a safe space to talk, share experiences and to not feel alone,” adds Viv, whose two daughters are her biggest supporters.

“I'm often asked if I'm mad. But if my row raises money that then helps and supports other women, I don't think there's anything mad about that.”

I know I can row an ocean. But as “Of the 15.5 million menopausal women many participants have said before, in the UK today, only 14% of us are the hardest part of this challenge receiving any sort of treatment. This is getting to the start line. has a massive impact on our personal and professional lives and negatively Viv’s been training for the past impacts the economy. year on a rowing machine at her home in front of the TV. She’s also been rowing on the water in the Lake District.

To s p o n s o r V i v, v i s i t h e r fundraising page: https:// www.gofundme.com/f/kk2vta-mumentous-solo -atlanticrow

But she’s now in a race to raise funds. She’s looking for businesses to sponsor her. She's already raised a whopping £75,000, but she needs another £30,000.

O n l y 2 9 o t h e r w o m e n h av e completed the challenge solo.

Viv says: “I’m rowing for menopause because I want to inspire menopausal women to go beyond what they believe is possible – and achieve incredible things.

Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 49

Authentic Kashmiri cuisine at its best

Catering for weddings and large functions

Aagrah Leeds is a renowned name in the catering industry, specializing in providing highquality services for corporate e v e n t s , l a r g e fu n c t i o n s , weddings, and parties.

food is not only delicious but also presented in a sophisticated manner, aligning with the professionalism of corporate gatherings.

With decades of experience, Aagrah has established itself as a go-to choice for those seeking authentic Kashmiri cuisine and a top-tier catering experience. Whether you are planning a corporate event, a grand wedding, or a private party, Aagrah Leeds offers a tailored solution that meets all your catering needs.

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Their team works closely with clients to understand the event’s vision and ensure that every detail is taken care of, from the selection of dishes to the presentation. For large functions, Aagrah can cater to hundreds of guests, offering seamless service regardless of the scale of the event.

Why Choose Aagrah?

Corporate catering services For corporate events, Aagrah offers a professional and reliable catering service that is perfect for meetings, conferences, seminars, and office parties. Their diverse menu is designed to suit a wide range of tastes, offering everything from traditional Kashmiri dishes to fusion cuisine that can be tailored to the theme of the event.

Whether you need a buffet, seated meals, or finger food, Aagrah ensures that the

Aagrah Leeds is also a popular choice for weddings and other large social functions. Weddings are one of their specialties, offering bespoke menus designed to cater to the tastes of the bride, groom, and guests. From traditional Kashmiri wedding feasts to modern fusion menus, Aagrah offers a wide variety of options that can be fully customized. They also offer vegetarian, vegan, and halal options, ensuring that all dietary requirements are catered to.

Aagrah’s corporate catering is not just limited to the food but also includes full service, from setup to cleanup, allowing event organizers to focus on their business activities without worrying about catering logistics. Their team is trained to deliver high-quality service, ensuring that everything runs smoothly, whether it’s a small gathering or a large corporate event.

Aagrah Leeds is known for its commitment to quality, both in terms of food and service. Their chefs use fresh, high-quality ingredients to prepare authentic and flavorful dishes. With a reputation for excellence, Aagrah has become a trusted name in catering for corporate events, weddings, and large parties. Their ability to offer bespoke solutions, exceptional food, and flawless service makes them a top choice for event catering in Leeds and beyond.

To book: Call: 0113 2455667 Aagrah Leeds, St Peters Square

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W chadwicklawrence.co.uk Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 51

Workplace discrimination at a three year high for young women

The number of young women being discriminated against at work is on the rise in Yorks and Humber according to new research from the charity Young Women’s Trust.

Rates of discrimination are at a three year high (51% of young women said they have experienced this in 2024, up from 35% in 2022).

appearance (18%), and because of a long-term mental health condition (15%).

men for jobs at the same level. When asked about gender pay gap reporting, almost a quarter (24%) don’t think that their organisation takes the reporting seriously enough.

Managers responsible for recruitment and HR decisions were also surveyed and almost a quarter (24%) confirmed that they were aware of instances of young women being discriminated against in the past year.

Evidence of pay discrimination continues and despite it being illegal, over a fifth (21%) of young women said that they have been paid less than male colleagues who do the same or similar work. This has been disappointingly consistent for the last three years (21% in 2022 and 2023).

Furthermore, a quarter (25%) of young women told us that women and men are not given the same opportunities to progress in their organisation. This was mirrored by feedback from HR decision makers with a slightly lower proportion (20%) agreeing that it is harder for women to progress in their organisation than men.

The research found that discrimination is multilayered with young women reporting prejudice based on age (25%), sex (14%),

From an employer perspective, almost 1 in 10 (9%) HR decision makers surveyed admitted that they were aware of women being paid less than

Sexual harassment is still a devastatingly common feature of working life - nearly a quarter (24%) of young women told us they had experienced this. F

52 Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n

Almost 3 in 10 (29%) HR decision makers agreed that sexist behaviour still exists in their organisation.

Whilst discrimination is spiralling, 15% of young women say that they don’t know their rights in relation to workplace discrimination. Over a fifth (22%) say that if it did happen, they wouldn't feel comfortable to challenge or report it almost 2 in 5 (38%) would not feel confident to challenge pay inequality.

This new data highlights the desperate need for more protection for young women in the workplace and stronger enforcement. As the Government looks to strengthen and simplify enforcement of worker’s rights as part of its Employment Rights Bill and plan to Make Work Pay, Young Women’s Trust are calling for young women to be part of the design of the enforcement system to make sure it’s accessible and effective.

Young Women’s Trust are also urging employers to act now and address discrimination - creating workplace cultures where unfair treatment is not tolerated.

Claire Reindorp, chief eecutive at Young Women’s Trust, said: “Discrimination should have no place in our workplaces but the reality is that as a young woman in 2024 you are more likely than not to be experiencing it. We cannot accept that this is just a normal part of working life. Its harmful effects will scar young women well into their futures, from shattered confidence and poor mental health to a lifetime of lower pay. Most urgently, we must address the deeply alarming rise in racial discrimination that Black and Asian young women are facing at work. Only then will we have a workforce with equal chances to contribute and succeed, for the benefit of everyone.”

Festive shopping with Toyota Customers flocked to John Lewis at the end of November not only because the festive shopping season has begun, but to see the latest electric vehicles from Toyota.

The new Toyota C-HR plug in hybrid and the C-HR hybrid were both on display outside the main entrance and customers were invited to learn more from the knowledgeable ambassadors.

A glass of fizz welcomed customers on arrival who enjoyed a range of complimentary festive activities across the evening including: • Complimentary bauble personalisation • Visit to the Beauty Society to sample a selection of fragrances and receive expert guidance from the team • Exclusive offers across selected beauty brands • Christmas sparkle styling session with the personal styling team • Exclusive coffee tastings with Nespresso • Festive tree tutorials • Wine tasting with a wine expert

There was delightful festive music throughout the evening from Jessica Frost, plus a chance to win a festive gift from Toyota.

Customers were handed an itinerary when they registered explaining where they could find each activity within the store, more importantly this itinerary had a golden ticket attached to allow shoppers to participate in the exclusive festive giveaway.

They were invited to head to the Toyota display where one of their ambassadors was waiting. Tickets were exchanged for an advent door reveal card which were scratched to uncover a mystery number some of which could be exchanged for a Christmas gift.

If you missed out, you can view the full range of Toyota vehicles at their Leeds showroom.

Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 53

54 Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n

New Year, great hair 2025

R o b e r t E a to n , A r t D i r e c to r, R u s s e l l E a to n S a l o n s If your hair goes flat or loses volume, a quick trick is to sprinkle a bit of dry shampoo into the roots to absorb moisture and add instant lift. When it comes to washing, don’t overdo it.

Natural oils are essential for healthy hair, so washing every other day is enough for most people.

January is the perfect time to focus on health and self-care, and while we often think about fitness and wellness, we can’t forget about our hair.

Hair health is just as important as other self-care routines, especially after the stress of the festive season. But what does it take to maintain strong, healthy, and beautiful hair throughout the year?

Hair is exposed to a lot of wear and tear: from in-salon treatments and daily styling to environmental factors.

A typical client’s hair undergoes six chemical treatments, 150 blow-dries, and thousands of brush strokes annually. Over time, this weakens the hair fibre, leading to breakage and split ends. Seasonal changes, such as the combination of bad weather outside and central heating inside, can also contribute to hair damage.

Finally, protecting your hair from heat is one of the best things you can do. Let your hair air-dry or towel-dry until it’s 75% dry before reaching for the hairdryer or straighteners.

And don’t forget heat-protecting products—these can prevent serious damage, especially from straighteners.

Incorporating these habits will not only maintain the health of your hair but give it the chance to thrive throughout the year. So, as you embark on new routines for 2024, make sure to prioritize your hair along the way!

in conditioner to minimize tangles.

Regular trims every 6-8 weeks can also help eliminate split ends.

Russell Eaton 57 Albion St, Leeds LS1 5AA 6 Shambles St, Barnsley S70 2SW @russelleatonhair

Preventing split ends is crucial for maintaining healthy hair. Overbrushing, backcombing, or brushing wet hair can disturb the cuticle, the hair’s protective outer layer. Wet hair stretches more easily and becomes vulnerable to damage. To combat this, it’s important to use a wide-tooth comb on wet hair and apply leaveY o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 55

Looking at your business through a fresh lens

While photographer Paula Duck’s career has taken her to London and Toronto, she found inspiration for her latest venture a bit closer to home – on the streets of York.

After spending most of her working life behind the camera, Paula decided to expand her commercial brand photography business so she could help others to stretch their creative legs.

So, she teamed up with North Yorkshire business Uniquely Local to turn her business into an experience.

Paula now runs York Photo Walks, which shows budding photographers how they can learn to see artistically while walking through the city with their camera.

“As you look carefully at a scene, you stop and become more aware of your surroundings,” says Paula, whose love of photography was sparked by

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an album cover when she was 17. “It can be a very mindful process. The idea is to find that wonderful angle and composition in the creation of the picture.

“I love being able to pass on my knowledge and help people to see more creatively. With more of us reflecting on where we are in terms of our worklife balance, I really believe that having time to learn something creative while connecting with this beautiful city can be a rewarding experience.”

Each Photo Walk starts at a popular landmark in the city and follows a route specially selected for both its historic interest and great vantage points for taking photos. And you don’t need a fancy camera to join a

walk – many people use the camera on their phone.

Paula adds: “We chat along the way about what we’re seeing, from the abbey ruins in Museum Gardens to the trees along the river and explore together how to improve composition along with a variety of other tips and tricks.

“In such a beautiful city, there’s always lots to talk about with the buildings, the squirrels and the excitement of being out in the busy streets with your camera. And all the time we are encouraging you to see the world with an artistic eye.”

Since partnering with Uniquely Local, which offers hand-picked gift experiences in Yorkshire, Paula has seen her side hustle flourish. She can reach a much wider audience and attract visitors from around the UK – and beyond.

doorstep. You don't have to travel to fancy destinations to have adventures; there's plenty to do locally, especially in Yorkshire.”

Rachel and the team can collaborate with local businesses to help them create unique, locally focused experiences. By working closely together, they can provide guidance on pricing, packaging and how to structure the experience to attract the right audience.

They can also help to create bespoke experiences that not only appeal to customers, but also align with the business' strengths.

Paula adds: “Being part of a truly local platform really enables you to feel valued as a small business. And working with the Uniquely Local team has provided plenty of opportunities to showcase what the walks have to offer.

“Uniquely Local are wonderful to work with and have a genuine understanding of how to engage with the experience audience.”

Paula’s most popular events are the bitesize one-hour walks, which cost £20 per person. “The feedback is that this gives great value for money,” explains Paula. “They’ve proven to be very popular with York residents, who often book again to experience the walks at different times of year.

encourages people to visit York and learn a new skill – and all while exploring iconic landmarks like York Minster, the city walls and the Shambles.

“Along with discovering local history, you also learn practical tips and tricks to capture stunning images with your own camera. It invites people to see the city from a new perspective.

“At Uniquely Local, we’re passionate about showing people how to have exciting experiences on their own

“Anyone can become an experience provider and earn a bit of extra money through a side hustle,” adds Rachel.

“If you have a passion for something, you can turn it into an experience.

Whether you’re aiming to attract tourists, locals or corporate clients, we can help design an experience plan that works for you.

“From crafting the offer to promoting it effectively, Uniquely Local takes the guesswork out of launching a successful experience.

“It has been a real privilege to meet such a wide variety of people from all over the world on the walks over the last couple of years, sharing my love of the city and photography with them.”

Rachel Marshall, founder of Uniquely Local, adds: “Paula's photography walks are a fantastic example of a unique local experience that Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 57

Is chronic fatigue silently draining your energy and hormones?

By Simone Thomas, Founder of Simone Thomas Wellness Here’s what every woman needs to know In today’s fast-paced world, feeling tired has almost become the norm, especially for active, driven women balancing work, relationships, and personal goals. But what if the exhaustion you’re feeling isn’t just a lack of sleep or a busy week? What if it’s chronic fatigue—an unrelenting tiredness that impacts every part of your body, especially your hormones?

For many women, chronic fatigue doesn’t just mean feeling tired; it can spiral into full burnout, disrupting hormonal balance and taking a toll on mental clarity, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life.

Chronic fatigue: more than just feeling tired Unlike the occasional tiredness that can be resolved with rest, chronic fatigue is a deeper, more complex issue. It’s not just physical

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exhaustion; it’s mental and emotional weariness that lingers even after a full night’s sleep. This fatigue runs so deep that it can feel like your body is working against you, making simple tasks seem daunting and leaving you in a fog of constant tiredness.

What many women don’t realize is that this level of exhaustion can directly impact hormone health. Our hormones play a critical role in energy regulation, metabolism, and emotional stability.

When the body is constantly fatigued, it sets off a chain reaction that disrupts the delicate balance of hormones like cortisol, oestrogen, and progesterone.

These hormonal shifts don’t just affect how we feel physically—they can also influence mood, mental clarity, and emotional resilience.

The cycle of fatigue and burnout on hormone health When you’re in a state of chronic fatigue, your body releases more

cortisol, the “stress hormone,” to keep you going. While cortisol is useful in small doses, chronically elevated levels lead to a cascade of issues. Over time, the constant release of cortisol can lead to what’s commonly known as “adrenal fatigue,” where the adrenal glands become worn out from overproduction.

This creates a vicious cycle, as fatigue itself can cause cortisol to spike, leading to more hormone imbalance, more fatigue, and so on.

But cortisol isn’t the only hormone affected. Chronic fatigue can lead to irregular menstrual cycles, reduced oestrogen levels, and even lower levels of progesterone, which is essential for stabilizing mood. Hormonal imbalances can amplify symptoms of fatigue, brain fog, irritability, and even depression, creating a feedback loop that traps many women in a cycle of burnout.

The emotional and mental toll of chronic fatigue

Hormonal imbalances caused by chronic fatigue affect more than just energy levels—they can alter the way you think and feel. Oestrogen and progesterone play key roles in brain health and mood regulation. When these hormones are out of balance, it’s common to experience symptoms like anxiety, irritability, mood swings, and depression. Many women find themselves feeling disconnected, as if they’re simply going through the motions of daily life without true mental clarity or emotional engagement.

Fatigue also impacts cognitive function.

Memory lapses, difficulty concentrating, and a general sense of mental fog can become daily struggles, making it hard to perform at work or engage fully in personal relationships. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy or frustration, further feeding into the cycle of stress and fatigue. It’s not uncommon for women facing these challenges to feel isolated or misunderstood, as chronic fatigue and hormonal imbalance are often invisible to those around them.

Your lifestyle might be fuelling the fire For many women, lifestyle factors contribute significantly to chronic fatigue and hormone imbalance. Highstress careers, irregular sleep patterns, poor diet, and even over-exercising can all place strain on the body’s systems, particularly the adrenal glands. The foods we eat, the lack of time for selfcare, and the constant drive to “do it all” add up over time, setting the stage for burnout.

and resting too little, thinking that pushing through is the only option. But this “push harder” mentality is exactly what perpetuates the cycle of fatigue and hormonal imbalance.

Breaking the cycle: the power of a targeted approach The good news is that this cycle of fatigue and hormonal disruption isn’t a life sentence. By addressing the root causes of chronic fatigue, it’s possible to regain energy, balance hormones, and feel like yourself again. This process often requires a comprehensive approach that combines diet, lifestyle changes, targeted supplements, and techniques to manage stress and restore hormonal harmony.

As a certified wellness coach, I’ve worked with thousands of women who thought they’d have to live with fatigue and hormonal imbalances forever. Through my tailored programs, I focus on restoring balance at the root level rather than simply managing symptoms. By identifying the specific triggers and stressors that are affecting each client, we work together to develop a personalized plan that addresses her unique needs and lifestyle. This way, rather than masking the problem with temporary fixes, we establish a new foundation for long-lasting wellness.

The role of technology in accessible wellness

One of the most exciting aspects of wellness today is that support is now accessible no matter where you are.

With the help of video calls, emails, and online consultations, I work with clients worldwide from my home clinic in Harrogate. This approach allows women to engage in a wellness journey on their terms, without the added stress of travel. The convenience and flexibility of remote coaching mean that women everywhere can take steps to regain their energy and balance their hormones from the comfort of their own environment.

Ready to break free from fatigue and reclaim your Life?

If this article sounds like your experience—if you’re tired of feeling exhausted, foggy, and out of balance—know that there’s a path forward. Chronic fatigue and hormonal burnout don’t have to be permanent. By addressing the root causes and creating a sustainable approach to wellness, you can regain control of your energy, your hormones, and your life.

Let’s start your journey together. Visit my site at simonethomas.com and fatiguehealthhub.com to learn more about my programs and book your consultation.

You deserve to feel vibrant, balanced,and energized every day.

While the body can be incredibly resilient, it also has limits. Over time, lifestyle habits that prioritize productivity over well-being can wear down the body’s natural ability to balance hormones and manage energy levels. Many women are unknowingly trapped in a cycle of doing too much Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 59

Fashion, frocks and fizz!

Lisa’s Style Edit Lisa Darwin transformation coach, fashion stylist & speaker Velvet Revival: the ultimate luxe fabric • Nothing says holiday opulence like velvet, and in 2024, this classic fabric is stealing the show. From jeweltoned tailored suits to shimmery gowns, velvet adds richness to any outfit.

Styling tips: •

For formal events, suggest a floor-length velvet gown in emerald or sapphire with structured shoulders for a regal look.

Add sparkle with statement jewellery or footwear to enhance the festive flair.

Men can opt for velvet blazers paired with sleek trousers for a

•

For subtle shimmer, pair a metallic blouse with tailored trouser or skirts.

•

Men can experiment with metallic ties, pocket squares or suits with subtle shimmer details.

Metallic Magic: glow up for the holidays Metallics are reigning supreme this season, with gold, silver and bronze shining across clothing and accessories. From high shine finishes to glittering textures, this trend guarantees you will turn heads.

Styling tips:

•

or a sequined silver jumpsuit for show-stopping New Year’s Eve looks.

modern yet classic vibe.

•

Pro tip: balance metallic pieces with neutral accessories to keep the look sophisticated.

The power of red: a classic reimagined

Suggest a bold gold wrap dress Red is a holiday staple, and in 2024, the trend focuses on rich tones like ruby, crimson, and scarlet in luxe fabrics like leather, satin, and silk.

Styling tips: A sleek red satin midi dress with asymmetric cuts is a guaranteed showstopper.

Suggest crimson leather skirts paired with neutral tops for an edgy daytime look.

Men can embrace bold red blazers or accessories for a striking statement.

Sustainable sparkle: glam with a conscience Eco-friendly fashion is more important than ever, with brands

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focusing on recycled materials, upcycled sequins, and biodegradable fabrics for festive wear.

Suggest strappy rhinestone heels for cocktail dresses or embellished flats for all-night dancing.

Encourage clients to invest in sustainable pieces or rent high-end holiday outfits for one-time events.

Men can embrace velvet loafers or polished leather boots for a festive finish.

Restyle wardrobe staples with updated accessories for a fresh, eco-friendly twist.

Personalization: the ultimate holiday trend The secret to standout holiday style?

Personalization. Your look should reflect your personality, lifestyle and event vibe.

Explore vegan leather bags and shoes for a polished, planet-conscious finish.

Bold prints and patterns: dare to be different Minimalism takes a backseat as bold patterns like oversized florals, animal prints, and geometric designs dominate holiday fashion.

Styling tips: Maxi dresses with vibrant patterns make a statement at cocktail parties.

Men can wear printed shirts under solid-coloured suits for a pop of personality.

•

•

Accessories that sparkle: the finishing touch

Curate tailored suggestions based on your preferences and needs.

•

Build versatile capsule wardrobes with mix-and-match festive pieces.

•

Keep an open dialogue to ensure every outfit feels authentic and fabulous.

Oversized, sparkling accessories are the MVPs of holiday fashion this year.

Rhinestone chokers, glitzy clutches, and dramatic earrings are must-haves.

Styling tips: •

Pair minimalist outfits with bold statement pieces for maximum impact.

•

Recommend metallic handbags or jewel-toned clutches to complement festive attire.

•

Men can elevate their look with stylish lapel pins, cufflinks, or watches.

Let bold prints shine by pairing them with understated accessories.

Sheer elegance: layers of allure Sheer fabrics are making waves this season, adding mystery and charm to holiday looks. Transparent overlays, peekaboo details, and lace accents are the ultimate mix of sultry and sophisticated.

Footwear favourites: glam meets comfort

Styling tips: •

Pair sheer blouses with tailored trousers or pencil skirts for polished allure.Opt for dresses with sheer overlays or sleeves to add a romantic vibe.

How to nail it:

Men can incorporate sheer fabrics subtly with scarves or panel accents.

From glittering stilettos to luxurious velvet loafers, 2024 holiday footwear combines style and comfort.

Styling Tips:

The holiday season of 2024 is your chance to step into the spotlight and shine brighter than ever. From glamorous textures to eco-friendly options, this year’s trends offer endless possibilities for creativity and confidence.

Happy styling and cheers to a season of glamour!

Merry Christmas to one and all!

Let’s get this FB party started!

Your Invitation to be part of something spectacular on 24 April 2025, First Direct Arena in Leeds. MODEL, SPONSOR, PARTNER and ATTEND. www.fbfashionball. show @fbfashionball @ lisadarwin1111 Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 61

New menu arrives at Dastaan

By Freda Shafi Dastaan, located in Adel, has fast become known for its drinks were light and balanced which is skillful balance of traditional and diverse flavours, blending important when paired with this menu. vibrant Indian dishes with a modern twist. I was kindly For starters: The Aloo Paneer Tikki invited to try some new additions to the menu..

As a regular, I was delighted to see that the new menu is both visually exciting and even more flavourful, with each new dish and carefully crafted new elements. From the Chicken Chettinad Dosa and Meen Moilee, this menu showcases bold spices, creamy coconut bases, and delicate textures that are iconic in South Indian cuisine. Each dish reflects careful craftsmanship resulting in stunning presentation, authenticity and attention to detail.

My visit began with a selection of fruit mocktails, which provided a refreshing prelude to the dishes. The

62 Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n

Chaat was a delightful blend of textures, with crisp aloo tikki (potato cakes) layered with creamy paneer, yogurt, and tangy tamarind chutney. Each bite blended the spicy, the sweet, and the tangy. The Beetroot Tikki (my personal favourite) brought an earthy depth to the table, crisp on the outside and beautifully soft inside, with a robust hit of spice to complement the beetroot’s natural sweetness. The standout starter, however, was the Lamb Chop. Perfectly cooked with warm smoky spices; a charred exterior and tender inside, it was marinated with an aromatic blend of spices that gave each bite a sophisticated richness.

served with malai kulfi / ice cream, which was indulgent, without being too heavy; perfect!

Overall, Dastaan combines quality ingredients with extremely skill of execution, each dish demonstrating the vibrant diversity of Indian flavours.

For those who have not experienced Dastaan, please put it on your list if you’re search of refined, authentic Indian cuisine with a modern twist.

A perfect venue also for large group bookings, parties and celebrations.

473 Otley Road, Adel, Leeds.

Tel: 0113 230 0600 Moving on to the mains, the Chicken Tikka Biryani was a standout. The biryani was fragrant, perfectly cooked, and the chicken was tender and infused with spices that gave the dish depth without overwhelming it.

The Chicken Chettinad Dosa was brilliant choice recommended by head waitress Victoria who guided us through this tasting experience.

The dosa; a crispy contrast to the robustly spiced Chettinad chicken; a South Indian classic executed to perfection. For seafood lovers, the Meen Moilee was a revelation; the delicate, buttery fish was enveloped in a creamy, coconut-based sauce that offered gentle heat and another complex yet balance of flavours. A fabulous traditional side of lightly spiced potatoes and tadka dal.

The accompaniments also held their own, especially the Pudina Lacha Paratha, a layered mint paratha with a flaky texture and subtle mint flavour that paired beautifully with the mains.

Finally, we squeezed in a dessert with a healthy twist; beetroot halwa Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 63

party. Mareyah’s needs were so high, and I had to be so strict with her routines, that there wasn’t any build up to Christmas for us.

“But we’d put on our Christmas jumpers, come to the Martin House party and see Santa – it wouldn’t have felt like Christmas without that party.

“At Mareyah’s last Christmas party, Martin House had real snow. She was beaming with smiles and absolutely loved it. That was our last Christmas together.”

Help make every Christmas count and support Martin House Will you grant our wish, and help us to make every Christmas count for children with life-shortening conditions?

A trip to Santa together is something many families who use Martin House Children’s Hospice wish for. But it can be impossible for those families who have a child with a life-shortening condition.

They wish they could attend a carol concert without needing the security of being close to a hospital — just in case. They wish the excitement of Christmas, was the only thing keeping them awake at night.

Some wish their child could

64 Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n

see this Christmas. Christmas Day itself is often disrupted or cancelled, overshadowed by illness, emergency hospital stays, or, for some families, the reality of their child dying on Christmas Day. We wish we could add days to their short lives. With your help, we are determined to add life to their days.

Families like Mareyah’s, who needed the care of Martin House throughout her life, until her death aged seven. Her mum Sonya says: “The excitement of Christmas started for us at the Martin House

When families need our help, we are here, providing free, specialist care and support 365 days of the year, 24 hours a day. We don’t stop, or reduce our services just because it’s Christmas.

We can’t do this alone. We need your help to ensure that every family who comes to us can create special memories that will last forever, during what could be their most difficult Christmas.

Will you grant our wish and help us make every Christmas count? Please donate today at www.martinhouse.org.uk / christmasappeal.

an agenda. Instead of trying to sell yourself or your business, focus on understanding others and contributing to meaningful discussions.

Are you getting the most from your membership?

We are often asked what members receive when they sign up for a Yorkshire Businesswoman membership so we thought we would provide a reminder, to ensure you are getting the most out of it which will help your business flourish in 2025.

Most of our day-to-day business happens on our screens, but it’s important to carve out time for inperson connections. Networking isn’t just another way to grow your business - it’s a chance to build genuine relationships that can offer personal and professional value. You must make time!

As a Yorkshire Businesswoman member, you’re not only surrounded by others in your own field but by an array of people whose expertise and viewpoints might be entirely different from yours. An entrepreneur focused on green technology might meet an artist with a passion for environmental activism, or a grassroots organiser could connect with a corporate leader working on inclusive business practices. These crossovers aren’t accidental but are built into the fabric of how to network, creating a melting pot of ideas where collaboration and innovation are almost inevitable.

How to get the most out of your membership

Focus on making genuine connections, not just expanding your contact list.

When meeting someone, ask questions that go a bit deeper—like why they signed up to be a member or what issues they’re most passionate about solving.

This makes the conversation more meaningful and creates a groundwork for lasting relationships.

Consistency is key. Showing up regularly at events not only helps you stay updated on what’s happening, but also allows you to become part of the community fabric. Members will start to recognise you, and you’ll begin to see familiar faces, making it easier to strike up conversations and build lasting connections.

Avoid going in with a mindset built purely from the question of “What can I get out of this?” The membership is built on shared values and collective goals, so it’s best to approach it with a spirit of collaboration and curiosity.

People are more likely to be open if they sense genuine interest, not just

Step out of your comfort zone by joining events where you might not know anyone or engage with members from different industries. Often, the most unexpected conversations lead to the richest insights. And don’t expect instant results. Building meaningful connections takes time, especially in purpose-driven communities. You may not see immediate benefits right away, and that’s okay.

Although it’s extremely important to attend in person networking, we also offer online networking with the member clubhouse. This valuable space is sometimes forgotten, but it provides a platform for you to showcase who you are and what you do, whilst promoting your news and chatting with other members.

Members also receive a complimentary page of space each year within our popular printed and digital magazine to promote their business, can book a slot on our podcast or a speaking slot at one of our monthly events. Next time you come to an event, why not bring some leaflets or a recoil banner! Plus, all your newsworthy press releases are guaranteed to be published on our website and sent out across our social media channels.

With our marketing and PR skills, we are here to help all our members, you just need to ask and if we can help you and your business, we will.

Remember as with all memberships, you get out what you put in!

If you haven’t signed up yet, you can do so on the website: https:// y orkshirebusinesswoman . co.uk/signup/ Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 65

Hi everyone and happy December!

By Freda Shafi: Associate editor food & health

This months’ recipes are my ‘Festive Favourites’ , in the spirit of the season obviously. These ones you can put in jars and give as gifts to your nearest and dearest. Also, with the Christmas holidays immanent, some fun recipes that you can create easily with the children - getting them involved in cooking and baking in the kitchen; how exciting!

Enjoy x

Pickled Red onions with garlic and sweet chillies A twist on traditional picked onions, these are sliced and infused with both apple cider vinegar, red chillies, garlic and Himalayan pink salt

Ingredients : • • • • • • •

1 kg red onions sliced 1 bulb garlic 6 sweet red chillies pierced 500ml apple cider vinegar 5 tbsp Himalayan pink salt 5 tbsp Malden salt 1 large, sterilised jar

Method •

Slice the onion

•

Peel the garlic

•

Pierce the chillies

•

Place the vinegar into the sterilised jar

•

Add the salt and stir to dissolve

•

Add the onions, garlic and chillies

Seal and place in the fridge Can be stored up to two months

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Cinnamon spiced thumbprint cookies with white chocolate An oldie but goodie! This is a really quick and simple recipe which takes little time to make but a great one to make with the children.

Ingredients : • • • • • • •

200 self raising flour 100g softened butter 100g caster sugar ½ tsp cinnamon 1 egg beaten Strawberry jam White chocolate melted

Method : •

Heat the oven to 180 degrees C.

•

Combine the flour, cinnamon, butter and sugar to a breadcrumb consistency, then add the egg to bring the dough together.

•

Take a small amount (approx 1 tablespoon) of dough and roll into a ball.

•

Place your thumb in the centre to form an indentation (children love this part!)

•

Place in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 mins until cooked

•

Place a small spoonful of jam into the indentation then drizzle

some white chocolate over the top •

Sprinkle with icing sugar and serve immediately

Spicy apple and date chutney The only way to describe this chutney is piquant, sweet, spicy, crunchy and tangy.

It can be eaten with almost everything I love, from cheese and bread to many types of savoury dishes. With the Christmas table on the horizon, it’s a great condiment as well as a great idea for ‘foodie gifts’ for your hamper.

1 tbsp curry powder 3 cloves 2 large sweet chillies (not 2 medium onions chopped 1 1/2 tbsp mustard seeds hot) 1 kg red or green apples cored • D r i e d a n c h o c h i l l i e s and chopped (optional) 20 dates pitted • Salt to taste 150g dried fruit –raisins and • 200g dark muscavado sugar sultanas • 425ml/¾ pints apple cider 1 ½ tbsp. paprika vinager 2 tbsp mixed spice • 100ml oil (vegetable or olive) 1 tbsp ground coriander Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 67

Ingredients • • • • • • • •

• • •

Method •

Place the oil into a large saucepan.

Once hot, add the mustard seeds and heat until they ‘pop’

•

Place all the chopped apples and dates and all other ingredients into the pan (including the spices and vinegar)

•

Slowly bring the whole mixture the boil until the sugar has dissolved.

•

Turn down the heat

•

Simmer for 1½-2 hours, stirring it at intervals to stop the chutney sticking to the base of the pan.

•

The chutney is ready when it’s thick enough to make a clear line through it using a wooden spoon or spatula. Taste and adjust seasoning if unecessary

•

Decant into small sterilised jars and seal and cool.

•

Dress up the jars with festive ribbon if you’re giving them as gifts.

•

The chutney can be stored in the fridge for up to two months.

Wouldn’t be Christmas without them! These mince pies look and taste delicious and will always add that extra sparkle to your festive table - Makes 12

•

Take a small amount of dough (walnut sized) and press it into the pie hole and make sure that it hangs outside of the edge.

•

Spoon in 1 tbsp mincemeat (or thereabouts) into each pie.

•

Take a smaller amount of dough and press into the palm of your hands to form a lid to cover the pies, pressing the edges together to seal.

•

Brush the surface with a beaten egg and bake for up to 20 mins until golden brown.

•

Let them cool on a wire rack then dust with icing sugar. Enjoy!

Easy mince pies

•

• • • • • • •

Shop bought mincemeat (I used Co –op 400g jar ready- made fruit mincemeat) Ingredients 225g butter diced 350g plain flour 280g mincemeat 100g caster sugar 1 egg Icing sugar to dust

•

Combine the butter, plain flour into breadcrumbs then add caster sugar and a pinch of salt

•

Roll into a ball and gently knead to create a firm dough.

Method • •

Pre heat the oven to 200C Grease a 12 hole pie tray

68 Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n

NAD What is the hype about it and why am I so passionate about this supplement?

Bespoke By Dr Bejma

Magda Bejma had the pleasure of interviewing Niki Davis, cofounder of NAD+ at Home, a supplement that’s quickly become an essential part of her wellness routine since she introduced it nearly six months ago. To clarify, this is not an ad,nor did she receive any benefit—her endorsement comes solely from her personal experience and genuine belief in the product’s potential to support healthy aging.

Niki tells us a bit about yourself Once a senior events producer for top brands like Google and Samsung, I faced a personal health crisis while raising my now 18-year-old triplets on my own. Overwhelmed by long COVID, autoimmune issues, and severe fatigue, I was driven to find a solution that would restore my vitality. My discovery of NAD+ therapy was life-changing, leading to renewed energy and a new purpose.

I was inspired by John Gillen, a pioneer of NAD+ therapy, I founded NAD+ AT HOME, making this powerful treatment accessible at home.

appearance, elasticity, and reduces fine lines. For hair, NAD+ aids in cellular regeneration, which can support thicker, healthier hair growth.

The Importance of NAD+ in AntiAgeing regime?

What is NAD? NAD stands for Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide, a molecule found in every cell in the body. It’s essential for many cellular functions, especially those related to energy production and repair. NAD+ levels naturally decline with age, which can contribute to reduced energy levels, slower metabolism, and other signs of ageing. Through NAD+ supplements, it's possible to replenish these levels, supporting the body’s cellular functions and longevity.

What Does NAD Do for the Body?

NAD+ has powerful effects on skin and hair health. In skin, it helps repair DNA and enhances cellular energy production, which promotes a youthful

Ageing is largely driven by a decline in cellular health. By replenishing NAD+, we support cellular energy, repair processes, and anti-inflammatory pathways, all of which slow visible ageing and help us feel more vital.

NAD+ therapy is increasingly popular as it addresses ageing at a molecular level, not just superficially. Maintaining NAD+ levels help delay or mitigate agerelated deterioration in skin, muscle tone, and mental clarity.

How would NAD help Menopause stage?

Menopause is a major hormonal shift that accelerates cellular ageing.

NAD+ levels drop even further during this time, impacting energy, skin elasticity, and mental health.

NAD+ supplementation can be highly supportive during menopause, offering benefits such as improved skin health, boosted energy, and better mood regulation, which may help balance the symptoms of menopause. https://nadplusathome.com/ Bespoke by Dr Bejma 24 The Avenue Leeds LS17 7BE Tel: 07928 161255

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Exercising is hard when menopause makes you want to hide away Write for You founder and 40 plus blogger Claire Kenny on the challenges of exercising during menopause.

Menopause symptoms can make us feel isolated. Here’s a reminder from Claire that we’re never alone!

When the menopause first hit, I stopped exercising. The mental side effects meant I lost all my confidence and the physical side effects made me almost scared to move my body.

Consecutive bladder infections, general discomfort, terrible anxiety around not being able to breathe when running, dizziness... you name it, I've had it.

I'm becoming an old hand at this menopause lark now and looking back I can safely say that rather than stopping our exercise routine during the menopause, it's the very time we should try and maintain it. It's uncomfortable, and it's obviously not glamorous when you're jumping around feeling cumbersome, bloated, anxious and unattractive. But I'm here to tell you, around 18 months in, that it's worth the fight.

Someone told me when I first started not to let the menopause take away the things I love. So, whether it's boxercise, running, walking, yoga or anything else, keep fighting through it and eventually you see chinks of light amongst the darkness and realise it was worth it. Getting HRT was a gamechanger for me, although it took a bit of time to get the dosage right.

It’s fair to say Nicola Adams can rest easy about her boxing career, but in body combat class this morning, I

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realised how comfortable I felt, and I thanked myself for sticking with it. I was also reminded of all the reasons why exercise remains so vital in my physical and mental health. After all, as a menopausal, middle-aged woman, you feel angry a lot of the time. What better way to get that anger out than to pretend you're punching someone really hard in the face?

I also feel empowered and strong when doing boxercise - I forget my

challenges and problems and just focus on what I'm doing (pretending to knock someone out).

Staying fit and healthy can feel much harder when your body and your mind are doing everything possible to make you hide away. So, a massive well done to everyone out there fighting through the physical and mental discomfort and doing it anyway.

Claire is on Instagram @my40pluslife.me

One of the simplest, most cost-effective ways to boost a business’ profit is to improve business processes.

Businesses tend to drift over time, even with a “standard way” of doing things. Individuals cut corners, duplication creeps in, steps get missed, and bottlenecks develop all of which can negatively impact our bottom line.

When a task takes longer than it should or requires rework, inefficiencies pile up. These inefficiencies don’t just cost you time - they cost you money.

Whether a project costs more than you quoted, or you miss out on other opportunities because your team is tied up fixing mistakes, the financial impact can be significant.

This is why it’s essential to review and refresh our business processes from time to time. It’s true for solopreneurs as much as for large enterprises.

Clean up before bringing in new customers We all get busy. But are we busy because we’re being productive, or are we simply putting out fires? If we’re constantly dealing with team issues, customer complaints, or catching up on overdue work, it’s a sign our processes need attention.

Now is the perfect time to assess and refine how you operate - before taking on new customers. Otherwise, you'll likely waste money on lead generation efforts, only to see dissatisfied customers disappear.

The bonus of team involvement The best way to improve your business processes is to involve the people who

Why improving processes is great for business

By Ro s Jo n es - Bu s in e s s C o ac h

are using them day to day - your team.

Delighting your customers

Start by having them map out each process as they follow it, not just how it's supposed to be done. Make it visual. I like to use large rolls of brown paper spread across the walls and Post-it notes to track each step.

W hile st ream lin in g in te r n al processes, remember to focus on the customer experience. Consider how each step impacts them and challenge your team to come up with ways to wow your customers.

Once you've mapped it out, work together to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement. This hands-on approach not only uncovers valuable insights but also increases buy-in. When your team feels part of the solution, they're far more likely to follow the new processes and hold each other accountable.

Remember, keeping existing customers happy is easier - and cheaper - than constantly chasing new leads. Process improvements present the perfect opportunity to exceed customer expectations. rosjones@businesswellbeing. club Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 71

N E W S U P D AT E

N E W S U P D AT E

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Business Structures & Reorganisations

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Accident Claims

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Commercial Debt Collection

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Business Structures & Reorganisations Commercial Disputes

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Commercial Debt Collection Property

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Commercial Contracts Disputes

Child Care Accident Claims Collaborative Law Child Care Dispute Resolution

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Commercial EmploymentProperty

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Contracts Intellectual Property

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Employment Trade & Transactions International

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Intellectual Property Internet Trading

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International & Transactions Mediation of Trade Business Disputes

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Internet Mergers,Trading Acquisitions and Disposals

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Mediation& of Business Disputes Planning Licensing

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Mergers,InAcquisitions Starting Business and Disposals

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Planning & Licensing

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Starting In Business

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Collaborative Law Employment Problems Dispute Resolution Matrimonial & Family Employment Problems Medical Negligence Claims Matrimonial & Family Planning for Retirement Medical Negligence Residential Property Claims Planning for Cases Retirement Road Traffic Residential Property The Law & The Elderley Road Trusts Traffic &Cases Wills, Probate The Law & The Elderley Wills, Trusts & Probate

Oncoming Winter doesn’t mean the end of home grown veg Michaela Axford our regular gardening contributor shares tips with us on what we can plant and grow ourselves.

Dare I say the word “Christmas?” It’s almost a four-letter word for some of us, and I can’t believe it has come again around so quickly!

In the garden, the last few weeks have largely been a

labour-intensive exercise in collecting and storing the autumn leaves.

They were given to me along with a large of amount of Visqueen membrane. Oh, happy days! One

landscaper’s waste product are another allotmenteer’s building materials. Once in position, I used staple-gun to attach the heavyduty Visqueen to the sides of the crates, and I placed a small square of it on the wooden pallet base Y o r k s h i r e B u s i n e s s W o m a n 73

to prevent the contents falling out. Hey presto - Instant raised beds! Luckily, the allotment had just had a delivery of manure, so I have been able to put a healthy amount in the bottom of these new raised beds. On top of that I will ll layer mulched leaves and recycled compost from the summer. I’m hoping that these two repurposed and fully recycled raised beds will allow me to grow a beautiful crop of onions, shallots, garlic and leeks in the coming spring.

Home-grown With Christmas in mind, I recently turned my attention to the potato sacks that I had been sheltering in the poly tunnel. At the beginning of September 2023, I decided that I would attempt to grow potatoes in time for Christmas. I was assured by those in the know that only 100 days of growing time was required. My efforts were not rewarded, sadly, and the seed potatoes simply sat dormant. I had almost forgotten about these potatoes, until I realised there were

signs of life in the summer. When the weather cooled, I moved the sacks under cover and waited for

the foliage to die back. I am now pleased to report that I have a small, but acceptable crop of Pentland Javelin potatoes! Providing I can store them well, I should have some home-grown spuds for the Christmas table.

I have maybe not been quite as successful with Brussels sprouts this year. Whilst the cabbages fared exceptionally well in this year’s unusually wet weather, the sprouts are still looking a bit pathetic. But let’s remain positive: even if I am only able to harvest a handful, they will mix with some greengrocer’s bought sprouts.

Carrots on the other hand, remain a sore point. I have never once successfully grown a carrot of any considerable size, whether it is in a container, a raised bed or a poly

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tunnel. The trick is, apparently, to only water from the bottom. If you, on the other hand, find carrots a simple variety to grow, then I take my hat off to you.

Towards the end of summer, I decided to run a little experiment.

I wondered if peas and beans could be grown out of season if kept inside a poly tunnel. I’m pleased to say that yes, they can - to an extent.

At the time of writing the Sugar Snap “Oregon” variety is still growing well and I have had several crops of sugar snap peas. The dwarf beans have not responded quite as well, but I intend to keep them in situ to see how they cope with the frost in the next few days. Overall, however, it has been extremely satisfying to see the growing season extended quite so long.

Seasonal Of course, if you are seriously determined to have fresh, homegrown produce to hand all year round, then you could always consider a table-top hydroponic kit. I have had one in my dining room for a year now. During the spring, I used it to fast-track tomato and cucumber plants before transplanting them to the poly-tunnel and the greenhouse. At present, I have a halfdozen heads of Pak Choi growing. It is incredibly satisfying to be able to pluck a head of Pak Choi from the kit to whip up a fresh stir-fry. Hydroponic growing is incredibly easy and inexpensive once you have invested a small amount in the kit, and it means that I have some fresh vegetables immediately to hand at any time of year.

It is now the final call for any spring bulbs you wish to plant out. I would advise that you do this before the frost hardens the ground and impedes root growth,

but you do still have time. You may even find some good bargains at garden centres now turn their attention to more seasonal items. With a bit of planning and elbow work now, you can ensure that the longer hours of daylight that signal the beginning of Spring will reward you with a beautiful and colourful display to brighten your days.

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The Ultimate Gift Skincare Health By: Janet Milner-Walker - Founder of Bespoke Advantage

It is hard to believe that we are nearing the end of 2024, a year that has passed by in a flash. Stores are laden with Advent calendars and Christmas gifting, bearing a constant reminder that the big day is fast approaching, and like many others, you may be wondering when to start Christmas shopping and more importantly what to buy.

If friends and family are beauty advocates, and you are at a crossroads, to make your shopping experience a little easier, I have narrowed down our pick of the best skincare-care devices in the market, with budgets in mind.

From stocking fillers under £40 to the ultimate splurge on beauty devices at £1 999, there is something for everyone.

In the realm of beauty technology has become an integral part of our daily regime, from smart devices equipped with AI algorithms, designed to analyse

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and respond to our unique skincare needs, to innovative technology that transcends traditional boundaries, there is a beauty device for everyone. The integration of augmented reality into the beauty sphere, has revolutionised this sector, and coupled with virtual skincare consultations, powered

by AR technology, enabled beauty enthusiast to receive expert advice and recommendations without leaving the comfort of their homes.

The skincare device shopping list

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For the one who loves cleansing: Sisley-Paris Gentle Face And Throat Brush, £36

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For the one who loves massage: Sarah Chapman Skinesis Facialift Roller, £34

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For the cryo-therapy friend: Omorovicza Cooling Derma Globes, £100

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For reducing fine lines and wrinkles: NuFACE Trinity Facial Toning Device, £142

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The all-rounder: Solawave 4-in-1 Skincare Wand with Red Light Therapy, £175

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For LED Light Therapy:

Current Body LED Mask, £399 •

For smooth, hairless skin: Philips Lumea IPL 8000, £449

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The Laser Tool: Lyma Laser, £1,999

Considerations when shopping for beauty devices There is a lot more to cleansing than facial wash, cleansing oils or a facial scrub. Skincare devices take cleansing to the next level through facial brushes like Sisley-Paris Face and Throat Brush, which is gentle, and yet makes the skin appear smoother and softer to touch, through to Foreo Luna’s pulsating disc that lifts skin impurities, without aggressive scrubbing.

If blackheads are a consideration Dermaflash Dermapore Ultrasonic Pore Extractor gently removes them, and if stimulating cellular turnover and collagen production is a priority The GloPRO, is a microneedling tool equipped to support this.

There are several classic face rollers on the market that can support in reducing inflammation and puffiness.

Omorovicza’s Cooling Derma Globes can be kept in the freezer before use to awaken skin and stimulate microcirculation, whilst Susanne Kaufmann’s Obsidian Facial Roller helps to boost circulation, relax muscle tension and promote a radiant complexion.

For hair removal there are a number of tools on the market, from Hollywood Smoother, through to Philips Lumea IPL 8000, that has four face and body attachments. LED devices are designed to treat a number of skincare issues at a cellular level, increasing brightening and reducing the signs of ageing. From blue light that decreases acne flareups, to red that stimulates the skin’s collagen production and helps to reduce

hyperpigmentation, to yellow that decreases inflammation and soothes sore muscles At the top end of the scale there are medical grade at home laser devices, like The Laser by Lyma. Based on the

number of five-star reviews, this is a product that really delivers results.

Whilst this is often mistaken as a LED light-therapy tool, and it does contain LED light, the key USP is a central laser beam that is said to regenerate the skin at a cellular level, rather than simply skimming the surface.

Merging of beauty with science and technology

Rodney Pedroza Portraits London

ABOUT JANET MILNER-WALKER Janet Milner-Walker is the founder and managing director of Bespoke Advantage, and BeautytoLife. She is an international speaker, a trusted advisor, and a freelance writer. Bespoke Advantage is a London based brand consultancy working with awardwinning brands, retailers, investors, trade bodies and embassies to support them in developing and growing their brands across the marketplace – visit: www.thebespokeadvantage.com.

The intersection of technology and beauty is not just a trend but a paradigm shift, which redefines how we care for our skin. Skincare has been reimagined and reshaped by an array of devices and tools, futuristic and harnessing cuttingedge advancements from LED light therapy to ultrasonic waves, smart diagnostics and beyond. Tailored treatments that were once exclusive to dermatologists and high-end spas have now made their way into our homes, empowering us to take control of our skin’s health with the touch of a button. As the skincare industry continues to embrace technology, these devices are likely to become more sophisticated, offering unprecedented levels of customisation and effectiveness. The future of skincare is about combining cosmeceutical ingredients with groundbreaking tools that analyse, treat and nurture our skin, paving the way for a revolution in personalised wellness and beauty.

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JCT600 makes record investment in luxury multisensory car ‘destination’

Yorkshire-based automotive retailer JCT600 has made its largest single investment in a dealership site in its 78-year history with the transformation of JCT600 Brooklands in Leeds to create new homes for three of the world’s leading luxury car brands, Aston Martin, Rolls-Royce and Bentley.

Yorkshire Businesswoman editor Gill Laidler had the chance to visit this new showroom to see the luxury vehicles on display, and courtesy of JCT was collected by David their chauffeur in a luxury Rolls-Royce and driven to and from the showroom.

never fully redeveloped until now. The idea for the project was conceived in 2018 when JCT600 added Rolls-Royce to its stable of luxury brands. Work started on site in the summer of 2023 with the project being completed just over 12 months later.

The creation of the state-of-the-art multisensory showrooms has also added five new jobs and brings the three iconic marques together on one site for the first time anywhere in the UK.

The facility, which showcases a total of 40 luxury vehicles and supercars, has been carefully designed using the latest digital and AV technologies to provide customers with a full sensory and immersive experience. Marking a huge step forward in the use of largeformat LED screens and surround sound, a theatre-like experience has been created which appeals to the

JCT600’s automotive history at the Brooklands site on Ring Road, Lower Wortley dates to 1999. Since then, it has been refurbished three times, but

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senses, including changing images and sounds, and even featuring bespoke fragrances within some of the showrooms.

“We’re incredibly proud to be the first company in the UK to bring these three iconic British brands together under one roof in what is a unique luxury vehicle destination.

It’s yet another demonstration of our total commitment to the brands we represent, our loyal customers and to the Yorkshire region,” said executive chairman John Tordoff.

Mark Taylor, property director at JCT600, added: “Taking four years from design concept to completion, this is one of the largest and most complex redevelopment projects we have undertaken. The challenge of creating a home worthy of three world-leading brands in a convenient

location was no mean feat, but one we relished.”

Brooklands also features the three brands’ latest corporate identities. It is one of the very first Aston Martin dealerships in the UK to embrace the marque’s new ultra-luxury vision and stand-out corporate identity and draws design inspiration from Aston Martin’s first global flagship location Q New York, with marble walls, plus natural stone and wood floors; and even an Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team area, showcasing the marque’s racing pedigree. The new location opens as Aston Martin completes its thrilling new sports car portfolio with the recent launch of its V12 Vanquish, building on the recent launches of the upgraded DBX707, new Vantage and stunning DB12 super tourer.

The innovative Rolls-Royce showroom includes a multi-media curtain of ‘dancing’ kinetic lighting with 48 colour-changing pendants hanging over the feature car which make it appear to be driving.

Rolls-Royce’s unique ‘cabinet of curiosities’, an eclectic mix of intriguing, timeless and legendary design objects, is also on display.

Finally, the bespoke British feel and signature craftsmanship which make Bentley’s iconic performance cars so distinctive is reflected in the design of its luxury showroom concept via leather, wood and polished metals.

Kristian Keighley, head of business commented: “Already, the ultra-

luxury sensory high touch experience we have created here is causing quite a buzz with customers who have long associated the site with stylish automotives and can now enjoy the best of three of the world’s most distinctive brands in one central location. With our proximity to the motorway network and JCT600’s other sports car brands, Brooklands is a flagship UK destination for British ultra-luxury motor cars.”.

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Ready to cope with the wilds of Leeds and York By: Motoring Correspondant Graham Courtney - Motoring Correspondent

Weather. It’s the thing we Brits talk about more than anything else. I was in the Lake District last week and was chatting to the landlord at a pub in Grasmere. He said that foreign tourists can’t get the hang of British weather. It’s glorious one day and then chilly and hammering it down the next.

They’re used to the same weather... day in, day out. As my dad used to say…’In this country we don’t have a climate…we have weather.’

Thankfully, it could have dropped a foot of snow because I was in the latest Range Rover Evoque. Okay it’s not the full blown Range Rover or a Defender or Disco, but it can still handle things when the going gets a bit rufty tufty.

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Prices start at £40,115 (Sept ‘24) which, for this sort of car, is competitive. It’s designed and built here in the UK so it should be well and truly sorted for our rubbish roads. And it is.

You have three different power options... petrol, Plug-in Electric Hybrid (PHEV) and, shock, diesel. We tried the PHEV which uses a 3-cylinder, 265bhp, 1.5 litre petrol engine which gives you a 0-60 time of 6.8 seconds, top speed

132mph and, if you can use the hybrid system to its full extent…it allows close to 40 miles of battery running…Land Rover reckon you can manage up to 196mpg. Granted, you’re not going to get anywhere near that figure, but it shows the potential for some serious savings and, thanks to the lower Benefit in Kind, this model will appeal to business users. If you have a daily commute in traffic of around 30 miles, you should manage that without using any petrol at all by selecting EV mode. When the engine does eventually join the party, it’s all very smooth.

And of course town work is the real reason for the Range Rover Evoque. If

you’ve ever driven the full size Range Rover, you’ll know that it’s a bit of a brute to punt around narrow streets.

Parking is decidedly tricky. Multi-storey car parks are a nightmare. Yes you might be able to find a space, but good luck trying to open the doors. You develop a knack of finding a space on the end of a row.

The Evoque however, might look chunky, but it’s the same size as nearly every other SUV. This makes it much more versatile.

The PHEV is the most expensive power option starting at £49,000 in entry level S trim, so you need to do your sums as to whether the potential fuel and tax savings are worth the extra outlay. The PHEV also comes as a 4x4 while the petrol and entry level diesel versions are front wheel drive only. All versions use an auto ‘box apart from the entry level diesel which gets a 6-speed manual.

As for the changes it would take a Range Rover Evoque enthusiast to spot the exterior modifications.

There is a slightly longer wheelbase and the wheels have grown in size.

There’s a new grille, excellent pixel LED headlights and new daytime running lights…but that’s about it.

Hop inside and this is where you’ll see the modifications. As with every Range Rover, it’s modern, plush… downright posh.

The dashboard is dominated by an 11.4-inch touchscreen. It’s clever, very hi-tech and works well but, as with a lot of these screens, you get the impression that a whizz kid has designed it,,,and it’s a whizz kid who doesn’t actually drive the car. There are no knobs or buttons …not one.

You can juggle things by using buttons on the steering wheel, but it’s not

as easy as just sticking a finger on a dashboard button.

In terms of kit, let’s just say that you get everything you could possibly need.

Out on the road, even though this is a car designed to cope with some off-road work, it is plainly aimed at life on the tarmac. It feels very

controlled and uncannily quiet unless you floor the throttle. You can tinker with the damper settings but it’s hard to detect any changes…we just left it in auto mode and let the car take care of everything. There’s hardly any tyre noise.

The Range Rover Evoque is maturing nicely. It’s still a hugely desirable car, no matter what the weather.

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Tribute to the late Mohammed Sabir, MBE founder of Aagrah in Leeds, 1938-2024 Beyond his success in the restaurant industry, Sabir has played an influential role in the broader community.

Many readers will either know, or have heard of Mohammed Sabir and if not, you will have no doubt at some point eaten in one of his many restaurants across Yorkshire. Following his passing recently, his nephew Naeem Aslam, director of the Leeds branch, shares this tribute: Mohammed Sabir was the original “restaurateur – entrepreneur” His journey spans over six decades, from being a young immigrant in the UK to one of the most celebrated figures in the British curry industry. It is both inspiring and groundbreaking. Arriving in Britain from Pakistan in the early 1970s, Sabir, like many of his generation, faced the challenges of adjusting to a new culture and building a livelihood.

Whilst working as bus driver, he knew there was more for him to contribute; and that was to Yorkshires’ culinary scene.

He was driven by a passion for authentic Kashmiri cuisine and a vision to introduce the rich flavours of his homeland to British palates. In 1977, with minimal resources, he opened his first restaurant in Shipley, laying the foundation for what would become the Aagrah Restaurant Group. Sabir’s vision for Aagrah was more than simply

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creating a successful restaurant; he wanted to build a space that represented the authentic favours and heritage of Kashmiri culture. His commitment to authenticity and high-quality ingredients set Aagrah apart, quickly earning the restaurant a dedicated following and high-profile visitors.

Over the years, Aagrah expanded; each location reflecting Sabir’s dedication to excellence and his mission to elevate Indian and Kashmiri cuisine in Britain.

He has created a wealth of job opportunities and support for charitable initiatives, making him a respected figure in the British Asian business community. Aagrah’s annual charity dinners have raised substantial funds for local causes, reflecting Sabir’s commitment to giving back and strengthening community ties. His contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including awards for outstanding achievements in the hospitality industry. Under his leadership, Aagrah has received numerous awards for quality and service, further cementing its reputation as an esteemed name in Indian cuisine.

Today, Aagrah is one of the largest and most successful Indian restaurant groups in the UK, with an ever-growing legacy. Mohammed Sabir’s journey from immigrant to industry leader is a testament to his hard work, his dedication to cultural authenticity, as well as his commitment to building a robust culinary community. His legacy is one of excellence, community engagement, and cultural pride that continues to inspire the generations that follow him.

UNWRAP THE FESTIVE S E A S O N AT DA KOTA We set the stage for an unforgettable Christmas; all that’s missing is you.

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