Creative businesses secure £1m for West Yorkshire Yorkshire Businesswoman Awards 2026
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EditorsNotes
By group editor Gill Laidler
Welcome to the June edition of Yorkshire Businesswoman magazine.
It’s been a busy year so far and we’re not quite half way through it, but it will be getting busier with lots of things happening.
Work has started on the 3rd Yorkshire Businesswoman Awards 2026, which will once again be held at The Marriott Hotel Leeds on 6th March 2026.
There will be a launch event in early September (date and venue to be confirmed) and this is when nominations will open and tickets will go on sale. Some people are already asking me about tickets and table reservations, so if you want to add your name to the list to ensure you don’t miss out, you can drop me an email - editor@ yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk Keep reading Yorkshire Businesswoman magazine, print or online, for updates.
If anyone is interested in becoming a sponsor for the awards, please do get in touch. Quite a few of these opportunities have already been snapped up, many from those who have sponsored for the last two years, but there are still some great options available if you would like to promote your business.
Many of you who know me, will know that I am moving house and by the time we publish I will be living in Cheshire
where I will be able to spend more time with my daughter and grandchildren. However, I am still working, still editor of Yorkshire Businesswoman and still coming to Yorkshire for events and meetings, just not all of them, so please continue to email me all your news, updates etc. (Yorkshire will always be my real home!) We have a new director joining us from 1st July who will be working with me and looking after all our partners and members, networking and running most of the events.
Don’t forget to check out our new website https://www.yorkshirebusinesswoman. network/ and if you are one of our valued members, please check your profile which is now live and make sure it is up-to-date. If not, or you want to amend, you can do this by logging onto the member area in the usual way and make your changes. The old website is also still active.
Our July event is on the 4th, venue to be confirmed, so make sure you reserve your place and remember, if you’re not a member, you can still join us by reserving a place on the events section of our website.
See you in August Gill x
You can email us at hello@yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk or call us on 07711 539047
yorkshire_businesswoman yorkshirebusin2
New dynamic co-working space brings fresh business energy to Hull
Hull's business landscape is evolving with the arrival of Flexworks, an exciting new co-working space that has opened its doors in the heart of the city. The first of its kind in the area, Flexworks has been developed by local property investment company Virginia Homes, with the support of Allica Bank - a challenger bank for established businesses - which provided a £330,000 commercial loan to help fund the impressive refurbishment.
Located in a prime city-centre building, the property previously housed traditional office spaces but had four vacant floors. Seeing an opportunity to introduce a modern and flexible workspace to Hull, Flexworks used the funding from Allica Bank to transform the upper floors into a stylish, state-of- the-art co-working hub and impressive private offices. Boasting ultra-modern facilities and interiors designed to impressboth in person and on Zoom calls! - Flexworks is set to be a gamechanger for freelancers, start-ups
and established businesses alike.
The launch of Flexworks marks an exciting step forward for Hull, a city that has undergone significant regeneration in recent years, particularly following its time as the UK City of Culture in 2017. With a growing reputation as a hub for eager entrepreneurs and creative remote workers, the addition of a high-quality co-working space reflects Hull's ambitions for the future.
Rick Bakhshi, the CEO and
founder, said: "Flexworks is about bringing a fresh, flexible working environment to Hull - something the city hasn't had at this scale before. We wanted to create a space where businesses and individuals can thrive, and with Allica Bank's support, we've been able to turn that vision into an impressive reality." Andy Castle, Flexwork's relationship manager at Allica Bank, added: "It's fantastic to see the stunning vision of Flexworks come to life and what a place to work Rick and the team have created! At Allica, we're truly passionate about helping businesses make a real impact in their communities. This project is a perfect example of that, it's not only introducing a new way of working in Hull but also helping to attract more ambitious businesses and young professionals to the region."
A new face at The Swinton Estate
A familiar face in North Yorkshire’s hospitality scene is the latest to join the Swinton Estate near Masham.
Tracey Ractliffe has been appointed the new head of commercial and business development for the 20,000acre estate and luxury hotel near Masham.
Tracey has had an impressive career in some of the country’s top leisure and conferencing brands as well as independent hotels, providing a broad foundation in the hospitality sector. She has led sales teams for Principal Hotels, Crowne Plaza, Menzies Hotels, and launched the Bovey Castle Hotel & Spa in Dartmoor. Her most recent role as part of the pre-opening team and commercial director at Grantley Hall saw her become an established face within North Yorkshire hospitality.
“Whilst hospitality has run through my veins throughout my career,
sustainability and environmental impact has been a subject close to my heart for a long time. When this role came up for the Swinton Estate, which is leading the way in sustainability across the industry, I jumped at the opportunity,” says Tracey. “The vast array of different aspects to the business – from fine dining and wellbeing to carbon trading and developing new sustainable techniques for land management – is hugely exciting to get my teeth into.”
Tracey will lead a team of 10, overseeing marketing, sales, events and reservations for the Estate.
Chief executive Iain Shelton is delighted to welcome Tracey to the Swinton Estate team: “We were hugely impressed by Tracey’s commercial acumen and the incredible array of
businesses she has helped establish as leading names in the hotel industry. She is a clear strategic thinker with a strong focus on delivering results. We’re very much looking forward to working with her to drive the Swinton Estate forward, with a host of new offerings planned for 2025 already which further enhance our offering to guests.”
Tracey has been a Yorkshire resident for the last 18 years, living just outside Wetherby. A lover of the great outdoors, she finds time to indulge in her passion for horse riding, whilst also putting green fingers to good use at the allotment she shares with her husband. She is also an avid reader, and a huge fan of the annual Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival.
To see the wide range of activities that come under Tracey’s new remit, please visit swintonestate.com
Stylish all-day hangout secures coveted spot at Trinity Leeds
CrowdedHouse, a brand-new, all day, multi-use dining and drinking venue has signed a lease to takeover the uppermost unit at Trinity Leeds in a move that will see £650,000 invested into the city and the creation of 50 new, local jobs.
Unit R8, which sits atop Trinity Leeds, boasts 12,000 square feet of space over two floors, housing up to 500 in capacity and boasting panoramic views of the city skyline from its balcony terrace area. Previously, the space was inhabited by Angelica and Crafthouse.
Launching this summer, the new concept introduces a thoughtfully designed space that is open to all and ideal for everything from relaxed lunches and informal catch ups to remote working and
evening drinks. The all-day menu will champion quality ingredients from Yorkshire and will be curated by an award-winning chef.
John Quinlan, founder and owner, said: “The vision for CrowdedHouse is to deliver a versatile and multi-use venue for the people of Leeds, Yorkshire and beyond. The two-floor unit at Trinity Leeds is spectacular; boasting 360 degrees skyline views across the city and offering ample space for casual catch -ups, cocktails and dining through to those who require a stylish place to remotely work.
“The space will be designed so that guests can enjoy a variety of experiences in one venue. From meeting with friends or colleagues, celebrating a milestone,
or simply enjoying time with family - CrowdedHouse will offer flexibility and understated luxury. I’m proud to be launching a bold new hospitality concept in the heart of Leeds and our investment reflects our belief in the city’s energy.”
Steven Foster, centre director from Trinity, Leeds, adds: “We are delighted to be welcoming CrowdedHouse to Trinity Leeds this summer. Taking over an iconic space - complete with a stunning roof terrace – they’ll bring a fresh new chapter for this location and an exciting burst of energy to the city. We’re confident CrowdedHouse will become a real must-visit destination throughout summer months and beyond."
CrowdedHouse is the sister-brand of Three’s A Crowd, a modern gastro-pub based in the heart of Harrogate.
Creative businesses secure over £1m for West Yorkshire
A specialist programme designed to grow West Yorkshire’s creative industries, and the regional economy is back for a second year after helping around 40 businesses to secure over £1 million of investment.
The region’s ‘Create Growth’ programme - funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport - is now open to applications from creative businesses that are ready to scale-up, attract investment and break into new markets through tailored support, mentoring and highprofile networking opportunities.
In the inaugural year of the programme, 78% of the 41 businesses that took part expanded their teams, 61% developed or launched new products, and 66% reported a growth
in turnover, securing a combined total of £1.2 million in investment from private sector investors and Innovate UK, the country’s innovation agency.
It follows the creative industries being identified by the UK Government as a key growth sector, with West Yorkshire being named as one of six creative industries priority places set to receive funding as part of next month’s Spending Review. It will support the region to maximise its strengths, deliver on its growth plans, and encourage
strong, continued investment in the creative industries to create jobs and vibrant places.
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “Ensuring that our creative sector thrives, creates more jobs and attracts inward investment will turbocharge economic growth and help us to build a stronger, brighter West Yorkshire.
“This innovative programme has given creative businesses in West Yorkshire the tools and support they need to grow.
“I’m thrilled that more local businesses will have the opportunity to fulfil their potential as we open applications for a second year.”
Mayor Tracy Brabin speaks to Sam Cordingley, owner of Samson Athletics
Caroline Norbury OBE, CEO of Creative UK, said: “It’s positive to see the Create Growth Programme return to West Yorkshire for another year. Its first iteration, delivered by Creative UK and West Yorkshire Combined Authority, was a vital springboard for some of the most innovative creative businesses from the region, who were able to gain exposure to a broad range of investors at our regional and national investment summits earlier this year.
“This second run of the West Yorkshire Create Growth Programme promises to continue the job of providing investment readiness support to businesses who will help drive forward the creative industries which, in 2024, made up 9.8% of all UK businesses and which have been identified by UK Government as a key growth sector."
In February, the successful businesses exhibited their ideas at the Big Creative UK Summit in Bradford to an audience of over 150 investors, partners, creative networks and local business owners, with several taking part in a pitching competition.
Bradford based gym wear brand Samson Athletics delivered the winning pitch and won a stand at the UK's Festival of Business Growth, Climb25 - taking place in Leeds in July.
Sam Cordingley, owner of Samson Athletics said: “The Create growth programme has really pushed me out of my comfort zone.
“I am often squirrelled away working in the business and not on the
business; the programme has pulled me out and put me in front of people.
“I've been pitching, which is certainly not something I would have been doing without the programme.”
The ‘Create Growth’ programme is delivered in partnership with Creative UK and West Yorkshire Combined Authority as part of Mayor Brabin’s You Can Make It Here campaign - a £2.3 million support package designed to grow the region’s creative industries and create opportunities for talent to thrive.
Find out more and apply: https:// www.wearecreative.uk/support/ regional-growth-programmes/ west-yorkshire-create-growthprogramme/
Bradford’s historic Little Germany sets its sights on a new chapter
Following the completion of a successful round of funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, a team led by Impact Hub Bradford has revealed plans to regenerate the city's historic mercantile quarter, Little Germany.
Home to 55 Grade 2 Listed buildings, the area is home to one of the most remarkable heritage destinations in the country and is known as having the highest concentration of protected buildings per square mile.
The business and communityfocussed organisation has led efforts to help revitalise the area, thanks to a collaborative project with the newly formed stakeholder group.
The steering group – which is headed up by Kamran Rashid, CEO of Impact Hub Bradford and chaired by James Mason, CEO of the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce – was formed with a focus on placemaking, business development, and the integration of local communities. In partnership with a diverse group of
stakeholders—including businesses, local organisations, and cultural enterprises—the team aims to bring both the public and businesses back to the area, celebrating the role it played in the region’s historic prosperity.
To showcase the rich architectural character of the area, a special inviteonly Heritage Day is planned to welcome local businesses, stakeholders, and residents to the area.
Commenting on the ambitious plans, Kamran said: “Work that will help drive a prosperous future for Little Germany is progressing at pace, with a clear vision to develop the area into a vibrant and thriving part of Bradford’s city centre. The collective efforts of the steering group, supported by a significant pot of funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund will ensure that Little Germany’s future will be both sustainable and community driven.
“As Bradford’s future unfolds, Little Germany will undoubtedly be a key player in shaping the city’s heritage and economic landscape for generations to come.”
The resurgence of Little Germany has already begun to capture the attentionof members of the public, the business community and the creative industries. The area has also gained recognition as a filming location, with popular productions like Peaky Blinders using the district as a backdrop.
James said: “Little Germany’s social and architectural heritage provides a perfect backdrop for innovation, making it the perfect office location, studio or workspace. The buildings here need to be celebrated and protected, making the area ideal for forward-thinking organisations like the Chamber and Impact Hub Bradford. This blend of old and new makes the area an attractive location for growing businesses and a promising opportunity for the hospitality sector.
“This blend of history, culture, and modern-day appeal ensures that Little Germany will continue to attract both visitors and businesses, contributing to the long-term growth and prosperity of Bradford.”
Impact Hub Bradford is part of a wider global network, aimed at building a
regenerative economy where business and profit serve people and the planet.
The project team will be rolling out a number of new initiatives over the coming months to help reinvigorate interest in the historic quarter, including new Bradford Civic Society blue plaques, improved wayfinding, new heritage walks and selfguided trails, new public art, and a new website to help promote Little Germany as a destination. The team has been working with other agencies such as Bradford BID to ensure that the area is benefitting for regular cleansing and efforts to boost public safety.
The project has also involved working closely with local designer Jimmy Smith — who recently created Bradford's striking new street and boundary sign designs — to produce a new eyecatching visual identity for the area.
The project is looking to drive inward investment through the launch of a new website, and further details will be revealed at the UK Real Estate Infrastructure and Investment Forum (UKREiiF) in May.
Special guests invited to AGM
Every year the team at Beverley Building Society looks forward to meeting both members and important local figures at its annual AGM. The Society reports on its financial performance and developments made in its savings and mortgage products, and on its commitment to giving back to its heartland.
At this year’s event the Beverley’s team were particularly delighted to welcome the Chairman of East Riding Council, Councillor Linda Bayram and her Consort, Mr Charlie Bayram, along with the Mayor and Mayoress of Beverley, Councillor David Boynton and Miss Tina Wilson.
Browns Department Store played host to the largest member audience the firm had ever seen. Karen reflected on the fact that the Society had delivered yet another solid performance in a challenging economic environment and made significant progress in modernising the business, whilst continuing to deliver excellent service to members.
With community giving a priority, she announced that the firm donated
£20,500 to charities and community groups last year. Karen told us: “I’m extremely proud to serve as the chair of a Society that receives countless plaudits like this. It’s also a privilege to be able to meet some of our members face to face and learn what’s important to them.”
Society CEO, Janet Bedford talked about the Building Society principle which is to deliver purpose beyond profit, by focusing on the interests of members and communities rather than shareholders. “We’re excited to be in the middle of a three-year journey to deliver a more streamlined and smoother service for our members and intermediaries, greater efficiency for our team, and improved resilience and reliability for the Society.” said Janet.
The audience also heard from the Society’s charitable partners, beginning with a heartfelt address by Andy Wilson of Yorkshire Cancer Research – Beverley Building Society’s Charity of the Year for 2024, who talked of their latest developments. He expressed his deep appreciation for the Society’s enthusiastic support, and highlighted a remarkable fundraising campaign that raised over £13,500 to help advance the charity’s vital work in cancer research and early screening programmes across the region.
Marie-Louise Robinson, representing Hull & East Yorkshire Mind, then took to the stage to outline some of the exciting plans in place for this year’s partnership. She spoke passionately about the importance of mental health, emphasising that it deserves the same care and attention as its physical counterpart and highlighted the wide range of support services, including a vital crisis helpline, which receives more than 200 calls a day from people in urgent need.
York Handmade joins forces with inspirational ceramics artist
The award-winning York Handmade Brick Company has joined forces with one of the most talented and respected ceramics artists in the UK.
Dr Maria Gasparian, who is also a qualified architect, is looking forward to working with the Alne-based brick manufacturer on future potential projects.
Mark Laksevics, senior sales manager with York Handmade, explained: “Both our managing director Guy Armitage and myself have known Maria for some years. As a qualified architect, as well as a talented and respected ceramic artist, Maria moves in the sectors of our industry where design and innovation are key.
“She carries out numerous high profile design commissions in clay, along with inspirational talks and publications on the wonders of working with clay. So, I was absolutely delighted to welcome her to our factory to show her what we are capable of, with our multidisciplinary production techniques.
“Maria’s visit marks the start of our collaboration. She was inspired by our capabilities and potential and has some magnificent ideas on which she would like to work with us. As Maria commands such respect amongst the
clay fraternity, this is a coup for York Handmade.
“After giving Maria a full tour of our factory, during which she expertly threw a beautiful brick, we went to York where I showed her some of our projects, including the award-winning York St John University building, as well as Bootham and The Shambles, where York Handmade bricks have been used for heritage brickwork repairs.
“Overall, it was such a privilege to welcome Maria to our factory. Her love of all things clay is infectious and her unique designs have brought a fresh perspective to all of us at York Handmade.”
Dr Gasparian commented: “It was wonderful to visit York Handmade’s factory and to see at first-hand what this award-winning manufacturer can produce. Using both the brickmaker’s skills and innovative machinery create such a variety of products, which are needed so much for existing architecture.”
“It was very inspiring for me to see the use of high-quality local clay that created such a rich palette of colours, textures, and forms—from longformat bricks to intricate decorative details and paviours. What really stood out to me was the company’s flexibility and ability to adapt to the specifiers’ brief.”
“I very much look forward to collaborating with York Handmade in the creation of new products and designs that will contribute to the creation of varied and engaging architectural spaces.”
Kirklees Council’s transformative ‘Our Cultural Heart’ development starts
Work on the first phase of Our Cultural Heart – Kirklees Council’s flagship regeneration scheme in the heart of Huddersfield town centre – is progressing well, with demolition now complete and the transformation of the former Queensgate Market building visibly gaining momentum.
Creating a vibrant new cultural and social destination for both residents and visitors, Phase One includes a modern community library hub, vibrant new food hall, and a large public square.
Construction work began in summer 2024, including the partial demolition of the Grade II Listed former Queensgate Market building. Throughout this process, heritage preservation has remained a key priority, with renowned artworks by sculptor Fritz Steller and other historic features carefully removed, cleaned up, and securely stored ready for reintegration into the final design.
With demolition now complete, the vast paraboloid roof structures of
the former market have been fully revealed. Installation of new glazing to connect these iconic forms is underway, making the roof watertight while allowing natural light to filter through the future food hall venue from different angles throughout the day.
In the coming months, structural steelwork and the construction of the main elevations will begin to take shape – revealing the scale and footprint of the library hub and food hall, and providing the public with a tangible sense of what’s to come.
Phase One is expected to reach practical completion in spring 2026, with a full public opening of the food hall and library hub in summer 2026. The process of selecting an operator for the food hall is well underway, with an announcement anticipated later this year.
Councillor Graham Turner, cabinet member for Finance and Regeneration, said: “We’re proud to see the first phase of Our Cultural
Heart progressing so well and are excited to be transforming this iconic space into something truly special for Huddersfield and the wider Kirklees borough. The new library hub, food hall and public square will not only celebrate our town’s unique history but also create a vibrant, modern destination for people to enjoy for generations to come.”
Phase Two of the masterplan, which received full planning approval last month, will see the former library and gallery building on Princess Alexandra Walk sensitively refurbished to house a major museum and art gallery for the region.
While some early exploratory and preparatory works are already taking place, construction on this next phase will begin following the completion of Phase One in summer 2026.
“The new museum and art gallery will become a key cultural destination for Yorkshire and showcase the huge mix of talent we have across the region,” added Councillor Turner.
“Not only will this project attract more visitors to our town centre and boost Kirklees’ economy, it will also ensure the long-term preservation and vitality of one of our most cherished buildings.
“Huddersfield has a bright future, and I hope everyone is enjoying watching the transformation unfold.”
“Not only will this project attract more visitors to our town centre and boost Kirklees’ economy, it will also ensure the long-term preservation and vitality of one of our most cherished buildings.
“Huddersfield has a bright future, and I hope everyone is enjoying watching the transformation unfold.”
Supporting adults with maths and English at Kirklees College
Kirklees College supports hundreds of adults every year to gain vital maths and English qualifications, that will help them up skill in their careers.
As part of Learning at Work Week in May, the college spoke to a number of Functional Skills students who are currently juggling weekly classes, with their daily jobs. Thanks to the support of the college and their employers, these students are able to study for this essential qualification during work hours.
Ali Katab, civil engineer at Kirklees Council is currently studying Level 1 Functional Skills English at Kirklees College. Speaking about his experience, Ali said: “Support from my teachers has meant I have been able to develop my English skills. I have been able to use my knowledge from the course in my daily life and everyone has been really helpful and kind.”
Another student, who is an estates caretaker at the Council and taking both maths and English classes said: “If all goes well, I can see myself furthering my career as a result of the Functional Skills courses. Being able to study at home as well as
college has been my favourite part of the course.”
Kirklees College works with a number of employer partners, including Kirklees Council, to help support employees working at all levels work towards these essential qualifications. Adult learners wanting to gain maths and English GCSE or Functional Skills certificate in their own time can also enrol this Summer to start classes at one of the college’s centres in Huddersfield or Dewsbury.
Find out more about the college’s maths and English offer by visiting www.kirkleescollege.ac.uk.
Fox Lloyd Jones bolsters its office agency division with senior surveyor appointment
Boutique Leeds based property and construction advisors, Fox Lloyd Jones has appointed Bethan McMurrough as a senior surveyor, to support the growth of its agency and development team.
Bethan has extensive experience in the property sector and joins the Leedsbased FLJ team after spending over three years at established London based property consultancy.
Bethan joins FLJ following a highly successful period for the offices team with a growing pipeline of instructions acting for both landlords and tenants across the city.
exciting time to join Fox Lloyd Jones, as the team continues to build on its strong market presence and deliver best in class service to an impressive range of clients. Leeds offers a dynamic and evolving office market, and I look forward to working on some fantastic instructions alongside a highly respected team.”
It has just received a shortlisting for Best Office Deal at the Yorkshire Children’s Charity Commercial Real Estate Awards for its full turnkey letting at 2 Whitehall Quay to the National Wealth Fund (formerly UKIB).
Commenting on her new appointment, Bethan said: “Now is an incredibly
Nick Salkeld, director said: “Bethan’s arrival is a fantastic addition to the agency and development team and supports our continued growth plans. Bethan’s experience in the London office market brings a fresh perspective and adds a new dynamic. We’re looking forward to her experience and expertise in supporting our clients and further enhancing our position in the Leeds office market.”
Yorkshire Businesswoman Awards 2026
It seems only two minutes ago that we were finalising the details of the Yorkshire Businesswoman 2025 awards and here we are, working on 2026!
Putting on an event on this scale takes a huge amount of work and we are grateful for all those people and businesses both new and returning who support us.
Once again, we are returning to The Leeds Marriott Hotel on 6th March 2026 for this prestigious black tie event, celebrating businesswoman from across the Yorkshire region. Nominations will open on the Yorkshire Businesswoman website in September when we officially launch the event at an evening with our partners, judges, sponsors and supporters. More details to follow on that in the next edition. Tickets for the event will also go on sale at the same time. If you would like to add your name to the list ensuring you will be the first to be notified when they are on sale, drop me an email editor@yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk
We would like to thank judges and sponsors who have already confirmed for 2026, these are:
Judges:
• Sir Rodney Walker
• Sharon Jandu OBE
• Andrew Cooper
• Eleanor Baker
• Sinead Rocks
• Sarah Power and Lord Mayor of Leeds Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung.
Judge for the last two years, Dame Linda Pollard is retiring next month and we would like to take this opportunity to thank Linda and wish her well in retirement.
Sponsors who have confirmed so far are:
• Leeds University Business School
• Fantastic Media
• Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors
• Lloyds Bank
• Leeds First Direct Arena
• The Royal Armouries
If you are interested in sponsoring, either as a main sponsor, category sponsor, table sponsor or ticket sponsor, do send me an email for details. Sponsors will receive free space within Yorkshire Businesswoman magazine from signing up, through to April 2026 and enjoy lots of social media posts over the course of this year and lots of promotion on the night.
Dynamic Duo Set to ignite a new era in health and ageing
A local duo, inspired by their own health challenges are on a mission to redefine ageing as a time of strength and power, with the launch of their groundbreaking health and fitness venture.
Founded by health and fitness expert Sam Guest and medical scientist Dr Hannah Beaumont, Promethean Longevity offers a science-driven, personalised approach to reclaiming vitality and extending health span.
“We all know our chronological age— our birthday—but our biological age reflects how well we’re truly living,” explains Dr. Hannah Beaumont. “Poor diet, stress, or inactivity can age us faster than we realise. With personalised, science-backed coaching, we’re helping people turn back that clock—sometimes by decades, and in only 6 weeks!” One early participant even slashed their biological age by 17 years, a testament to the programme’s power.
Sam and Hannah’s own health struggles has fuelled their vision: Sam rebuilt himself after burnout collapsed his
extreme sports business, while Hannah overcame teenage autoimmune disease with her dedication to scientific knowledge and lifestyle changes. This has led to the duo combining science and passion to empower people to live stronger, longer.
The team have developed their own science based algorithm which gives participants their biological age before embarking on their flagship 6-week ‘Stealing Fire’ programme. Grounded in evidence-based coaching, they are already seeing remarkable results, with one participant reducing their biological age by 17 years.
“Health isn’t a luxury—it’s the foundation of a life well-lived,” says Sam Guest, “We’re here to challenge the idea that decline is inevitable as we get older. This isn’t about quick fixes. Our evidencebased programme uses science and support to help people thrive at any age.”The pair will host an official launch event Wednesday 14th May members of the public are invited to attend for free. Held at Sancta Cafe, Otley they will unveil the brand’s flagship 6-week programme which is designed to add at least 6 years on to the health span of participants. From 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, guests will experience live demonstrations, hear from founders Sam and Hannah, and meet the community already transforming their lives with Promethean Longevity.
Further details on the free event and unique programme can be found at www.prometheanlongevity.com
Make time for you...visit YSP
Fiducia MGA strengthens underwriting team
Leeds-based specialty insurance managing general agent (MGA) Fiducia has appointed a new marketing and sales co-ordinator.
Stef Dixon, who joins from insurance broker Ravenhall Risk Solutions, has more than 20 years’ broking, underwriting, marketing and sales experience.
In her new role, Stef will work closely with the underwriting team to attract and retain new brokers whilst also supporting on policy renewals for existing broker clients.
Fiducia specialises in marine cargo, freight liability, engineering, marine equipment, fine art and specie insurance alongside excess of loss and terrorism covers. The company is backed by certain underwriters at Lloyd’s and other insurers.
Commenting on her new role, Stef said: “Fiducia has a great reputation for building strong relationships with brokers and working with them on a risk-by-risk basis to provide the ideal products and policy coverage required.
“I’ve joined a highly capable team of underwriters and I am working
closely with them to further enhance the service we deliver to our brokers, whilst also securing new partnerships.”
Established in 2016, the firm was founded by its chief executive officer, Gerry Sheehy.
Welcoming Stef to the company, Gerry said: “Stef’s immediate understanding of us and how we differentiate through our relationships, service levels and product flexibility has enabled her to quickly make a positive impact.=
“We now look forward to her helping drive the continued expansion of our broker network by using her range of complementary skills and expert understanding of our markets.”
Parties, Awards Nights and Festive Events – Get ahead before the rush
It might be summer, but the best winter events are already in the works. Every year, December arrives faster than expected, and event planners scramble to secure the best production setups. Last year, we saw agencies and businesses searching for last-minute sound, lighting and special effects - only to find limited availability.
At Production Light & Sound, we help make events truly unique, drawing on 25 years of expertise in professional lighting, sound and technical production. Whether you're planning a Christmas party, corporate awards night, or an end-of-year celebration, now is the time to lock in your production needs and avoid the seasonal scramble. The right setup can transform an ordinary event into something unforgettable.
What makes a festive event stand out?
• Lighting that creates atmosphere – Festive warm glows, dramatic uplighting, or custom-branded colour washes set the scene from the moment guests arrive.
• Crystal-clear sound – Whether
it’s an awards ceremony, a live band, or a DJ, the right sound system ensures every word and note is heard perfectly.
• Winter-themed special effects – Snowfall machines, haze effects, and star cloth backdrops bring a touch of seasonal magic to any venue.
• Expert event production –From full-service event design to flexible dry hire options, having the right technical setup is the key to a smooth-running night.
Why book early?
November and December are the busiest months in the events calendar, and waiting too long
can mean missing out on the best equipment, crews and venues. Last year, we worked with organisers who had left things late - but some had to compromise on their vision simply because demand was so high.
By booking now, you can secure peace of mind, the best choices, and a stress-free run-up to your event. At Production Light & Sound, we provide high-quality equipment, expert technical support and creative solutions to bring your event to life.
Make this year’s winter event your best yet - get in touch with Sarah and the PLS team today!
Asda’s first stand-alone ‘George’ concept store has officially opened its doors at Crown Point Retail Park in Leeds, marked by a spectacular launch event on Saturday 10 May, headlined by Spice Girls icon and Leeds native, Mel B.
The retailer recently announced the trial of the new George store, which it hopes to replace its current Asda Living stores across the UK with the new format.
The grand opening was a vibrant celebration with a music and entertainment throughout the day, including a high-energy cyclone challenge offering customers the chance to win thousands of pounds worth of George vouchers to be spent in-store and brass band.
To mark the launch, Asda donated £2,000 to Women’s Aid Leeds, a charity Mel B actively supports as a patron along with an additional £1,000 worth of homeware to help provide essentials to women and families in need.
Speaking Mel B, said: “I’m really pleased to partner with George at Asda. They have made a significant donation to Leeds Women’s Aid Refuge - both financial and practical - and as patron of National Women’s Aid that is so important to me.
“I’m incredibly proud of my home city and for me it’s all about coming
Mel B opens Asda’s first George at Asda concept in Leeds
together as a community and I hope this association with George and Asda will continue. “
The new store aims to deliver a fresh, fashion-forward shopping experience focused on the George clothing, home and general merchandise ranges, all in a standalone, modern retail space.
Inside, shoppers were among the first to explore expanded and refreshed George ranges, showcasing even more must-have styles for men, women, children and across the home and garden.
George chief commercial officerNon-food and Retail, Liz Evans, said: “This new concept store represents an exciting step forward for the George brand and we’re incredibly
proud to launch it in Leeds first, the home of Asda.
“We’re confident customers will love the expanded collections, inspiring collaborations, and convenient shopping experience the store offers.
We were also thrilled to welcome Mel B, a true Leeds icon, to help us celebrate the opening, and equally proud to support Leeds Women’s Aid and the vital work it does to support women and families in the city.”
Leeds Women’s Aid CEO, Nik Peasgood, added: "Mel B is a wonderful patron of National Women’s Aid and a truly passionate advocate for women and children experiencing domestic abuse. As a proud Leeds lass, she’s been a fantastic supporter of our work, and we’re incredibly grateful to her and to Asda for its amazing generosity."Alongside it’s clothing and home offering the new store also features Asda’s latest ‘Kitchen’ concept eatery, featuring an upgraded menu of hot and cold favourites, including a new fresh pizza offering. The cafe also offers the supermarkets popular kids eat for £1 deal.
York-based dust extraction specialist APS is celebrating after one of its employees, project engineer Katie Burrell, won the Newcomer Award at the Solids Handling & Processing Association’s (SHAPA) annual awards.
The Solids Handling Awards, which took place in early May, celebrates success and achievement across the solids handling and processing industries in the UK.
Katie took home the Newcomer Award in recognition of her significant contribution to APS since joining at the start of the year, using her broad knowledge of the dust and fume extraction industry to manage the planning and execution of the Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) solutions APS provide.
Since arriving at APS in January, Katie’s self-motivation, enthusiasm, and ability to navigate convoluted industry demands has been lauded by the wider team, noting her efforts to develop customised solutions for customers which address specific needs and challenges.
These solutions enhance operational efficiency, whilst also prioritising environmental sustainability, contributing to the reduction of industrial emissions and promoting cleaner production processes.
Speaking about her win, Katie said: “Winning the SHAPA Newcomer of the Year Award is a real honour for me. It’s a reflection of the support and encouragement I’ve received
York-based APS celebrates industry awards win‘honour’
from the incredible team at APS over the past few months.
“Since joining, I’ve been challenged, inspired, and made to feel part of something impactful. This award is not just a personal milestone, it’s also a testament to the positive environment and opportunities APS has given me to grow and contribute.”
APS, based in York, is a trusted industry expert in the design and installation of dust and fume extraction systems, serving sectors including food and beverage manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, automotive, plastics and more.
SHAPA is the UK's leading specialist association for the solids handling and processing industry.
Countdown on to the Great Yorkshire Show
This year will see the Show host five national breed shows, with Aberdeen Angus, Longhorn and Charolais cattle and Zwartbles and Kerry Hills in the sheep section.
To mark the Presidency of Geoff Brown MBE, chairman of Ripon Farm Services, two of the latest John Deere tractors took up prime position in the Main Ring which will also be on display at the Great Yorkshire Show.
New to the equine rings this year are Suffolk Punch, the handsome and heavy draught horses from that county which are always chesnut (traditional
Suffolk spelling) in colour and are classified as a critically endangered breed by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust. For the first time, the Show also welcomes British Miniature horses, bred to resemble quality riding horses but standing only 87cm high.
The Show is elevating its digital platforms this year with a new GYS App and a new YouTube series focussing on some of the exhibitors and contributors who make the Show the success it is today.
The YouTube series Great Yorkshire Show: Behind the Scenes will see
Seels as they meet some of the farmers and exhibitors as they prepare for, and compete in, the Show.
Rachel Coates, show director and Yorkshire Businesswoman member said: “I am thrilled to be heading into my first show which will feature traditional favourites as well as some new additions. The five national breed shows this year across sheep and cattle really reflects the prestige of the Great Yorkshire Show. This is a show for everyone, connecting farming and countryside to the public and we are delighted to bring the four days to an even bigger audience with our new YouTube series and to make it
more accessible with the GYS App.
“This will be my first as show director - expect lots of exciting new announcements over the coming months as we get towards the Show.”
Allister Nixon, CEO of the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, which organises the Show said: “The countdown is officially on for the Great Yorkshire Show our flagship event, organised by our charity – the Yorkshire Agricultural Society. While we work throughout the year to support the industry, it’s all brought together in four days, for our visitors to compete, celebrate and socialise while promoting the vital work of farmers.”
Tickets are on sale now and sold in advance only for the 166th Great Yorkshire Show which will be held from Tuesday 8 July to Friday 11 July, on the Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate.
The Show attracts 140,000 visitors, and over 8,500 animals which will be exhibited in pursuit of all-important prize rosettes. The future of the industry will be on display in a bigger and better Innovation Zone and by the Future Farmers of Yorkshire at their everpopular Breakfast Meeting at the GYS Stage.
Visitors are encouraged to download the Great Yorkshire Show App from the App Store and Google Play Store, before they arrive.
The app offers event planning with timetables and key highlights, an interactive showground map for easy navigation and details of trade stands and shopping.
And don’t miss a round up of all the action from each day, with Great Yorkshire Show: Behind the Scenes on the Great Yorkshire Show’s YouTube channel each evening.
Parkland Plowden Chambers announces new head
Elizabeth Hodgson succeeds James Murphy who held the position for five years. Formed in 2007 following the merger of Parklane Chambers in Leeds and Plowden Chambers in Newcastle, Parklane Plowden is home to 119 barristers.
Liz is the first woman head of chambers and its two predecessor chambers. She was called to the bar in 1993, and has practised in personal injury and clinical negligence throughout her career.
Liz became a member of Parklane Plowden in 2001 and has been a Recorder (Family) and a Deputy District Judge on the North Eastern
Circuit since 2020. She has been a deputy head of chambers since 2021.
Commenting on her new role, Liz said: “Chambers has thrived under James’s outstanding leadership over the past five years, furthering its reputation as a progressive set committed to developing positive outcomes in all our specialist practice areas.
This will run after the Main Ring livestream which already attracts an average of 10,000 viewers on the Great Yorkshire Show YouTube channel each day of the Show, with people tuning in from around the world - including Australia, Germany, and Japan.
Subscribe to the Great Yorkshire Show YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/user/ GreatYorkshireShow
Download the Great Yorkshire Show App here: https:// greatyorkshireshow.co.uk/ gys-app/ Free shuttle buses are operated by The Harrogate Bus Company every day of the Great Yorkshire Show.
The buses run every 10 minutes from Harrogate Bus Station (next to the Railway Station) to the Showground’s White Gate, starting at 7.30am. The last bus departs the Showground at 7pm.
“I thank him, both on behalf of Chambers and personally, for the enormous contribution he has made to Chambers’ success in that time.
“I look forward to working with our excellent senior management team to build upon that success as we continue to grow and evolve Chambers for the benefit of our clients, our staff and our members.”
James remains an active member of Chambers, practicing in industrial disease and serious personal injury.
In its 2025 rankings, legal directory Chambers & Partners, placed Parklane Plowden as Band 1, the highest ranking a chambers can achieve, across its chancery; clinical negligence; employment; family and children; and personal injury practice areas.
Protecting your legacy for future generations
The largest ever transfer of wealth from one generation to another is expected to occur in the next 30 years, with somewhere in the region of £5.5tn-£7tn passing on in the UK . This is being called the great wealth transfer. Therefore, it is unsurprising that inheritance planning is an increasingly important part of wealth management.
Rising property prices, asset price inflation and frozen tax thresholds mean that more and more people are being dragged into paying inheritance tax (IHT), with HMRC
receipts reaching £7bn between April 2024 and January 2025 . Given that even though this figure is large it represents less than 1% of total tax revenues and was levied
on only 4% of the population, a chancellor looking to shore up public finances may find IHT an appealing target.
History suggests that preserving and growing intergenerational wealth is notoriously challenging. Unfortunately, it is far too common for people to address this issue in the wrong place, initially focusing on what they invest in rather than their personal financial
framework. Identifying investment goals, aims and timeframes is the best place to start in our experience, allowing you to identify the optimal approach that will provide the bases and essential guidelines in managing your wealth.
Being proactive gives you the best chance of achieving your goals. Having discussion around death and legacy can be difficult, but it is far easier to talk about it when you are in a stable position in your life. Managing finances and investing are often emotive, so it is far from ideal o gave to make big decisions when you’re going through emotional distress linked to sickness or bereavement. Even high-level discussions with practical steps of who to contact if you become incapacitated can make the process far less painful.
We help our clients look at various ways they could reduce their IHT liability, pass on as much wealth as possible to loved ones, and structure their family wealth to suit their own needs and circumstances.
What is inheritance tax?
A 40% inheritance tax rate is generally charged on the value of everything owned above an allowable threshold, known as the nil rate band. The nil rate band is currently set at £325,000 and is frozen until 2030. There is also a residence nil-rate band, which means that no IHT is charged if a home is left to “direct descendants”. The residence nil rate is currently £175,000 and also frozen until 2030.
How can I reduce my IHT bill?
The main approach to avoiding inheritance tax is to reduce the value of your estate. The smaller your estate on death, the less your IHT liability will be.
Gifting and exemptions:
You can reduce the value of your estate and therefore the amount of IHT you are liable for by “gifting away” some of it during your lifetime. Some gifts are completely free of IHT whereas others will still be liable, albeit at a reduced rate in many cases.
There is no IHT to pay on transfers between most married couple or civil partners living in the UK, whatever the amount. However, if you do decide to pass your estate on to your spouse or civil partner, a potential liability can build up again on their death. This is why many couples decide to pass their estate on to their children of grandchildren.
Individuals are entitled to give away £3,000 in any tax year, free from IHT. The allowance can be backdated by one year, meaning a married couple could give away a total of £6,000 a year without incurring IHT (or £12,000 if the previous year’s allowances were unused).
Wills:
Writing a will and keeping it up to date is an essential part of estate planning and can also be used to reduce a potential tax bill. Many
people incorrectly believe that their whole estate will go to their spouse or civil partner when they die. However, without a will this may not be the case.
Business relief:
Owners of businesses are eligible for certain tax reliefs, depending on the type of business. In many instances, a business transfer on death is completely from any IHT liability.
This article is intended as an introduction to inheritance tax and if you would like to know anything further, please don’t hesitate to download our IHT and wealth transfer guide using the below QR code or get in contact with a Quilter Cheviot financial planner who can assist with any queries at enquiries@quiltercheviot.com.
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.
Taking Wakefield Hospice forward into the next generation
Images: Roth-Read Photography
In April 2025, Fran Lightfoot stepped into her new role as director of income generation at Wakefield Hospice, bringing with her not only a wealth of experience but a deep personal connection to the hospice movement. Passionate, driven, and people-focused, Fran's journey to this position reflects a career shaped by purpose and a deep-rooted commitment to making a difference.
Fran joined Wakefield Hospice in August 2023 as deputy director of income generation, a newly created position that allowed her time to get to know the organisation, understand the community, and prepare for the transition into leadership. She officially succeeded Helen Knowles following Helen's retirement in spring 2025 after 38 years at the hospice.
“It is an absolute privilege to have taken up this role. I was fortunate to
work with Helen for over 18 months and saw first-hand the passion and enthusiasm which she tackled every day. I am looking forward to building on the incredible near-four decades of commitment and hard work which Helen leaves behind, whilst integrating my own vision and plans for future.”
Fran's career path has been defined by adaptability, empathy, and a natural talent for connecting with people.
Her first job, a part-time role at a supermarket, introduced her to the working world. "I loved it," she recalls. "It taught me early on how much I enjoy being around people and how satisfying it is to help them find what they need."
While studying Marketing and Consumer Studies (BSc) at London Metropolitan University, Fran got her first taste of fundraising. As a street fundraiser in the early 2000’s, she represented householdname charities, Barnardo’s and Great Ormond Street Hospital. "It was tough but incredibly rewarding. You had to be confident, resilient, and genuinely passionate about what you were talking about – and thankfully I was, in fact I really enjoyed the challenge of the role and was proud to represent such incredible organisations."
After graduating, Fran moved into banking, working as a customer service advisor and quickly rising to the role of regional sales coach. While successful in the commercial sector, Fran couldn’t shake the feeling that something was missing. "I really enjoyed helping people and leading teams, but I missed the passion and purpose I'd felt while fundraising."
It wasn’t until a deeply personal experience brought her back to the world of charity. In 2009, Fran’s mother was admitted to Rotherham Hospice. During one of her visits, she noticed a sign for the hospice’s fundraising office. "It was a lightbulb moment. I hadn’t realised that the hospice was a charity, let alone that it had a fundraising team. It felt like a brilliant opportunity to combine my skills and passions."
Six months later, after her mum passed away, Fran saw a vacancy for a community fundraiser at the same hospice. She applied and was successful. "It felt like everything had aligned. I could use the skills I'd built in sales
and leadership for something that truly mattered to me – the day I was told I had got the job still sticks with me today and was the catalyst for the next fifteen years of my working life."
The role at Rotherham Hospice was just the beginning. Fran moved on to St Luke's Hospice, where she took on increasing responsibility, eventually becoming head of fundraising. Her success in these roles was driven by a strong belief in the value of community and the tangible impact of local giving.
Later, she took a bold step into a different environment, joining Astrea Academy Trust as the head of fundraising – the sole fundraiser supporting 26 schools. "It was a completely different world," she says. "I loved the challenge and the variety, but I missed being part of a larger income generation team and seeing the direct impact of the work every day."
Despite the contrast, the role at Astrea helped Fran diversify her skill set. She gained valuable experience in trust and foundation fundraising—an area she hadn’t previously focused on— and supported schools to develop the skills needed to deliver sustainable income. "It really broadened my perspective," she says. "And those skills have absolutely helped me in my current role."
When the opportunity at Wakefield Hospice came along, it didn’t just feel like a natural next step, it felt like the perfect place for Fran to utilise her skillset to give back to a charity with a mission so close to her heart. "Hospice care means a lot to me personally, and the idea of returning to that world, in a leadership role, was incredibly exciting."
Now Fran is focused on building on the hospice’s strong legacy. "Wakefield
Hospice has been here for 34 years. It’s a vital part of this community. My goal is to grow our fundraising capacity, strengthen the team, and develop new partnerships across the health and voluntary sectors to ensure we continue to provide outstanding care for generations to come."
Her approach to leadership is collaborative and inclusive. "My aim is to nurture talent, create opportunities for people to grow, and work together to meet our goals. Fundraising is at its best when everyone feels connected to the cause."
A typical day for Fran can include anything from strategic planning meetings and one-to-ones with her team to donor engagement, data analysis, or representing the hospice at external events. "There really is no such thing as a typical day," she says with a smile. "That’s part of what I love. Each day brings new opportunities to make a difference."
Fran is also deeply committed to ensuring the hospice remains forwardthinking in its income generation strategy.
"We need to balance tradition with innovation. That means maintaining the brilliant community events and supporter relationships we’re known for, while also exploring new income streams, digital engagement, and collaborations."
As a woman in a senior leadership role, Fran feels fortunate to work in an inclusive sector. "The charity sector has long been a place where women have thrived in leadership. It’s one of the few industries where female leadership is not only present but celebrated."
She’s quick to credit the support of those around her in helping her grow into the role. "I've been lucky to work with incredible teams and mentors.
Now I’m in a position to give that back." Reflecting on her journey, Fran says if she could offer her younger self any advice, it would be to embrace challenges, not avoid them. "Don’t be so hard on yourself. Every obstacle is a chance to learn. And if I could do one thing differently, I’d have made the move into the charity sector much sooner."
"From day one I have always loved the fact that in this sector, especially in hospice care, you see the difference your work makes every single day. It gives me such pride to know I’m part of something that truly matters."
That sense of purpose, coupled with strategic vision and an unwavering belief in the power of people, is what makes Fran Lightfoot such an inspiring leader. Under her direction, Wakefield Hospice is in great hands; poised to build on a solid foundation, growing their income streams and innovative ways of working in the months and years ahead.
Fact File:
How many children do you have?
I'm a mum to two little girls who keep me on my toes every day!
What do you do in your leisure time?
Spending time with my family is everything to me. Whether we're off on a little adventure to the seaside, going for walks in the countryside, or just getting stuck into the chaos of soft play, it's
all about making memories together.
Where is your favourite restaurant?
I love Café Fish in Scarborough, it's a mustvisit for seafood lovers. Just top-quality seafood every time.
What is your favourite food and drink?
Good quality seafood would definitely be my favourite for a special occasion or just a midweek treat (when paired
with a glass of white wine all the better!)
Where is your favourite holiday destination?
Rhodes will always be incredibly special to me –it’s where I got married. It just has such a warm and welcoming feel, beautiful beaches, amazing food, and sunsets that take your breath away.
Where is your favourite place in Yorkshire?
Whitby is my favourite spot in Yorkshire. I’ve got so many happy childhood
memories there and it’s one of those places that just feels like home, no matter how much time passes.
What is your favourite gadget?
I’d have to say my mobile phone!
What couldn't you live without?
My kids, but my Netflix subscription would come pretty high on the list too! I love winding down in the evenings with a good series.
How female business leaders can navigate the funding crisis
Samantha Addy, CEO & Founder of FAB
Despite women launching businesses at unprecedented rates, they continue to face extraordinary barriers in accessing the capital needed to scale their ventures.
With female founders receiving a mere 2p of every £1 invested in UK businesses, it’s more than gender disparity, it’s a systemic failure to capitalise on half the nation's entrepreneurial talent. Samantha Addy, CEO of the Female Advisory Board (FAB), recommends what female leaders need to consider when accessing investment to scale their business…
Yes, the stats are bleak, but it doesn’t mean female entrepreneurs need to settle for inadequate funding offers. Here’s my advice on finding the right funding fit for your business.
Know your options
Map all potential funding routes before making decisions. Explore friends and family financing, government grants, angel investors, debt funding, venture capital, through to private equity, and potentially to IPO. Each option carries different implications regarding your business control and growth trajectory.
Build a foundation for funding success
Strengthen your business infrastructure before seeking investment. Develop robust operational and financial models. Understand key metrics like net revenue retention, growth rate, churn rate, customer lifecycle, acquisition costs, and sales efficiency.
Hire a Financial Controller or CFO early to navigate funding options effectively. Knowing your numbers is beyond crucial and many people fall at this hurdle when presenting to potential investors.
Conduct thorough investor due diligence
Research potential investors thoroughly. Even better, have ideal investors in mind that you already know you want to work with based on their portfolio/ reputation. Verify alignment with your values and vision. Pay attention to early interactions – they forecast your future working relationship. Remember that accepting the wrong investor can create lasting complications. Trust your gut about potential partnerships.
Maintain business momentum
Keep operations running smoothly during funding rounds. Divide your focus strategically between fundraising and core business
functions to maintain growth and demonstrate value to potential investors. Prove your concept first
Develop proof of concept or minimum viable product before seeking significant external capital. Customer traction strengthens your position and allows greater selectivity with funding partners. Don't surrender too much equity too early.
Embrace the funding process with confidence
Prepare meticulously for investor meetings. Know your numbers cold. Anticipate challenging questions and have clear, confident responses ready. If pitching alongside male co-founders, establish protocols to maintain your leadership presence in the room.
Final thoughts
Despite historical barriers, awareness of funding disparities is growing. Now is a great time for women leading high-growth businesses (20%+ YOY growth). Explore all funding avenues, including debt options. Map each against your long-term vision and growth strategy.
Above all, believe unwaveringly in your business. Your conviction is contagious; if you don't demonstrate confidence in your venture, investors won't either. Approach the funding process with preparation, persistence, and strategic patience.
• Business Structures & Reorganisations
• Commercial Debt Collection
• Commercial Disputes
• Commercial Property
• Contracts
• Employment
• Intellectual Property
• International Trade & Transactions
• Internet Trading
• Mediation of Business Disputes
• Mergers, Acquisitions and Disposals
• Planning & Licensing
• Starting In Business
• Accident Claims
• Child Care
• Collaborative Law
• Dispute Resolution
• Employment Problems
• Matrimonial & Family
• Medical Negligence Claims
• Planning for Retirement
• Residential Property
• Road Traffic Cases
• The Law & The Elderley
• Wills, Trusts & Probate
Networking with YorkshireBusinesswoman
All images with thanks Roth-Read Photography
Yorkshire Businesswoman
hold a number of events throughout the year for our members, but guests are always welcome to join us too and can reserve a place on our website https://www. yorkshirebusinesswoman. network/Our next event is on 4th July.
Here are a selection of images from our last meeting in May at Banyan Bar & Kitchen in Leeds city square.
Smart Works Leeds has ambitious vision to invest in the women of Yorkshire
Smart Works Leeds opened in November 2019, providing high quality interview clothing and advice to unemployed women across Yorkshire. Since then, the charity has supported more than 3,000 women with its tailored dressing and coaching service. Just over 1,000 of these women have been supported in the last year alone, and 67 per cent get the job within a month of accessing the Smart Works service.
Josepha, from Huddersfield, found herself out of work due to a change of circumstances. She knew that she had talents but wasn’t sure how to put them to good use. When Josepha secured an interview for a teaching assistant position, Smart Works Leeds charity provided a bespoke interview outfit for her, as well as a coaching session with mock interview questions specific to the teaching sector. When Josepha secured her job, Smart Works Leeds welcomed her back to pick out a capsule wardrobe.
She said ‘It brings me joy to wear my Smart Works outfits. Smart Works is unique to you, they give you the confidence to be you and the opportunity to show your skills.’
Now, as it prepares to enter a pivotal stage in its growth, Smart Works Leeds is itself looking for help and
support. The charity, based in Mabgate Mills is hoping to move into a unit double the size of its current space. This new centre could accommodate up to 100 women a week, with four dressing and coaching rooms.
In addition to the centre move, in the next year the charity is aiming to roll out confidence-boosting
group sessions across the county, embark on targeted outreach projects in Leeds, Bradford and North Yorkshire, and see more than 1,000 women annually.
You can become part of the Smart Works Leeds community by joining The Collective, a network of likeminded individuals across Yorkshire, united in one mission: to support local unemployed women to succeed. As a member, you will be part of a dynamic community that values equality and inclusivity and believes in the transformative power of employment for women, and for their families and communities.
By joining, members can:
• Access exclusive events –Network, learn, and be inspired throughout the year
• Have their voice heard – Share their insights and shape the future of Smart Works Leeds’ services
• Make a personal impact –Send messages of good luck to women with upcoming job interviews
With a donation of either £12.50 a month or £150 annually, members of The Collective can make a tangible difference to the lives of local women, helping to provide stability for the charity it grows its services, and aims to move to a bigger home later this year.
To find out more about the charity or become a supporter, please see the website here: https://leeds. smartworks.org.uk or email leeds@ smartworks.org.uk.
Successful client Josepha
L-R, Trustees Ruth Cherry, Ally Dowsing-Reynolds, Chair of the Board Tracy Fletcher, staff member Hannah Boyle, intern Ellie Henson, Ambassador Natalie Anderson, staff members Amy Harrison and Lottie Roberts, in the new centre. Photos by Ja
Rachel Peru, YBW member and fashion model - Photography Eva Boruc @nortonandtownsend
When it comes to my wardrobe, versatility is key — and for me, nothing works harder than a great blazer. It's the kind of piece that can instantly elevate jeans, pull together a casual look, or complement smarter tailoring.
But finding one that fits properly, that's been a lifelong challenge. As a curvier woman, I've often had to compromise — if it fits my bust, it's too big on the shoulders and waist, or vice versa. So, when bespoke tailors Norton & Townsend invited me to visit their Ilkley showroom and experience having a custom blazer designed just for me, I was intrigued - and more than a little excited. With over 30 years of heritage, Norton & Townsend has been crafting hand-finished, bespoke garments since 1990. Their showrooms in Spitalfields,
London, and Ilkley, West Yorkshire, offer clients a taste of traditional tailoring with a modern approach. At the helm is managing director Victoria Thompson, who took over the business four years ago. With two decades of experience in the industry, Victoria brings a deep passion for helping clients discover their personal style and perfect fit. Victoria launched their womenswear services at the start of this year and it's no surprisethere's a high demand for their services. "Tailoring is in my blood" says master tailor Graham Hall, who guided
me through the process. "There's no better reward than seeing someone light up when they put on a beautifully fitted garment." Graham shares Victoria's passion for tailoring and I felt in very safe hands knowing they would get the right fit. During your first appointment, your tailor will also take dozens of precise measurements and posture assessments, talk through your styling preferences, and guide you through fabric and trim options.
The initial consultation was all about understanding my shape and style preferences. Graham took the time to study how I stand, how I move and — crucially — where standard sizing fails me. He knew instantly the exact cut I needed; the ideal lapel width, the right hip length, and enough fullness across the back to move comfortablywithout compromising shape. I was in awe of his expertise.
Then came the fun part - fabric selection. With hundreds of beautiful British tweeds and premium materials to choose from, it was like being a kid in a very stylish sweet shop. I'm glad they were happy to guide me as with so much choice it
felt a little overwhelming and I wouldn't have had the vision that they had for me. Guided by Graham and Victoria's expert eyes we chose a beautiful tweed boucle material in colours I would never have chosen myself, and decided to create not just a blazer, but a matching waistcoat too. Behind the scenes, the craftsmanship is nothing short of extraordinary. Your unique measurements and body shape are translated by experienced pattern cutters into a custom card pattern. This pattern becomes the template for your garment - and is kept on file for future pieces (unless you hit the gym or discover a love
for cake!) but even then, it can be re-tweaked to fit in the future. The selected fabric is laid flat to relax before being chalked, cut, and transformed by skilled seamstresses and machinists - the unsung heroes of bespoke tailoring - into a garment made exclusively for you. Eight weeks later, I returned for my fitting. As soon as I slipped into the waistcoat and blazer, I felt a lump in my throat and tears came from nowhere. For the first time in my life, I was wearing something tailored to my exact shape - no compromise, no discomfort. Just effortless fit and confidence and it felt amazing. Graham made a few small tweaks to the shape to make sure it showed my curves off at its best, we chose the buttons and added personal touches, embroidering my name inside the blazer and my signature phrase "Free to Be" stitched under the collar. It's these details that elevate bespoke tailoring into something truly special. Two weeks later, my final fitting confirmed what I already knew - this was a game-
changing experience. You might assume bespoke tailoring is out of reach - but when you consider
conscious move toward slow fashion, choosing quality over quantity, and embracing pieces that will live in your wardrobe for years to come. There
are countless ways I'll be styling my new blazer and waistcoat - paired with wide-leg trousers or jeans, worn casually with a T-shirt or dressed up for work with a crisp shirt. The waistcoat will be perfect on its own in summer or layered for cooler
months. I've already decided to have some turquoise wide-leg trousers made to match — that's how converted I am to made-tomeasure. If this is something you've been thinking about, l'd definitely recommend booking a meeting with Victoria in
the likley showroom. In a world of fast fashion and disposable clothing, choosing bespoke is more than a wardrobe decisionit's a celebration of individuality, craftsmanship, and confidence.
@rachelperu1
Photography: Eva Boruc
@nortonandtownsend
Member Spotlight
This month's spotlight falls on Kate Adamson of Web Design and Branding Agency Grinning Graphics
In today’s digital world, a welldesigned website isn’t just a bonus for charities - it’s essential. With 99% of UK charities now online,a functional, thoughtfully designed website can be the heart of your operations. It can serve as a hub for service users and volunteers, a platform to attract donors, and a powerful way to communicate your mission.
Whether you're an established organisation or a newly launched nonprofit, your website can be a gamechanger, but only if it’s built with the right features. Below, I highlight the essential elements that make a charity website effective, engaging, and impactful
Clear mission statement and impact stories
Your website should quickly and clearly communicate your mission. Visitors need to understand who you are, what you do, and why it matters. Featuring impact stories, testimonials, and reallife successes helps build emotional connections and trust with your audience.
Simple and secure donation process
A straightforward donation journey is critical. A highly visible “Donate” button on every page, multiple giving options, and a secure, easy-to-use donation platform will boost contributions. Showcasing how donations make a difference can further encourage support.
User-friendly navigation
Good navigation enhances user
Essential website features that will help your charity succeed online
experience. Your site should have a clear, logical menu structure that helps visitors easily find key information. Reducing the number of clicks needed to navigate increases engagement and keeps visitors exploring longer.
Mobile optimisation and accessibility
Today’s audiences are mobile-first. Your website must work smoothly across all devices, offering a responsive experience. Accessibility is equally important—following WCAG guidelines ensures your site is inclusive, welcoming all users, including those with disabilities and impairments.
Compelling visuals and strong branding
High-quality visuals, consistent branding, and engaging design bring
your mission to life. Photos, videos, and infographics should reflect your organisation’s work and values, making your site more memorable and impactful.
Bringing
your charity to
life online
A well-designed website does more than share information—it connects, inspires, and mobilises. By incorporating these essential features, you can create a digital platform that truly supports your organisation and helps it grow.
At Grinning Graphics, we specialise in designing charity and non-profit websites that do just that. Whether you want to raise awareness, increase donations, or build community, we’ll help you create a platform tailored to your goals. Contact us today to book a consultation and start bringing your mission to life online. Author YBW Member - Kate Adamson.
Are you making the most of networking?
Networking is a crucial aspect of building and maintaining professional relationships in the business world. Effective networking can open opportunities for career growth, collaboration, and new business ventures. However, there are certain do's and don'ts that can help you navigate the world of business networking successfully. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
What you should do:
1. Be authentic: Be genuine in your interactions and build relationships based on trust and mutual respect.
2. Set clear goals: Define what you hope to achieve through networking, whether it's expanding your client base, seeking job opportunities, or gaining industry insights.
3. Listen more than you talk: Effective networking involves active listening and showing
interest in others. Ask questions and focus on building meaningful connections.
4. Follow up: After networking events or meetings, follow up with the people you've connected with. Send a personalised message or email to express gratitude and reinforce the relationship.
5. Provide value: Help, share knowledge, or make introductions that can benefit your contacts. Building a reputation as a helpful and resourceful networker can strengthen your connections.
What not to do:
1. Being too aggressive: Avoid pushing your agenda on others or coming across as overly self-promotional. Networking is about building relationships, not making immediate sales pitches.
2. Neglecting to follow up: Failing to follow up after networking can be a missed opportunity to solidify connections and potentially lead to future collaborations.
3. Focusing solely on your needs: Networking is a two-way street. Be mindful of what you can offer to others and seek to create mutually beneficial relationships.
4. Being inauthentic: People can sense when someone is being insincere or opportunistic in their networking efforts. Stay true to yourself and maintain integrity in your interactions.
5. Burning bridges: Treat all networking opportunities with professionalism and respect, even if they don't lead to immediate benefits. Building a positive reputation in the industry is crucial for long-term success.
By following these do's and don'ts of business networking, you can enhance your networking skills, create valuable connections, and unlock new opportunities for growth and advancement in your career.
If you are interested in networking with Yorkshire Businesswoman, visit our website https://www. yorkshirebusinesswoman.network/ where you can sign up as a member or why not book as a guest for our July event.
Let’s talk about a gamechanging truth: business success isn’t just a numbers game. It’s an energy game.
We can have all the strategies, tools, and tactics in the world, but if our energy is off, it’s like trying to run a marathon on an empty tank. Being a successful, self-led leader isn’t about hustling harder; it’s about mastering our energy so we can lead with impact, clarity, and ease.
Why energy matters more than effort
The old-school mindset tells us success comes from relentless effort that involves long hours, constant grind, and sacrifice. But here’s the thing: effort without aligned energy leads to burnout, frustration, and stagnation.
When our energy is misaligned, even the simplest tasks feel impossible. Believe me, I’ve been there! I know it’s not a pretty place.
On the flip side, when we’re in a state of energetic alignment, we create flow, and results come naturally.
Here are four ways to master our energy game.
1. Aligning our energy with our vision
Being a self-led leader means understanding that how we feel is as important as what we do. It’s about making decisions from a place of abundance, not fear.
When our energy aligns with our vision, we attract opportunities, people, and outcomes that support our growth.
2. Managing our inner game
Why business success is an energy game
By Ros Jones - Business Coach
Success really IS an inside job. It’s about knowing our triggers, managing stress, and mastering our mindset. As self-led leaders we invest in our inner world, building resilience, practising mindfulness, and staying connected to our purpose.
3.Protecting our energy
Every decision we make either fuels our energy or drains it. From the people we surround ourselves with to the projects we take on, protecting our energy is non-negotiable.
High-impact leaders know when to say no, delegate, and recharge.
4.Leading with presence
Presence is power. When we show
up fully, without distraction or stress, we lead more effectively. It’s about being here, now, whether we’re in a boardroom or spending time with family. This kind of leadership inspires trust, loyalty, and high performance.
4.The new leader mindset
The self-led leader knows that success is about working with energy, not against it. It’s about leading from within, creating impact without burnout, and thriving in business and life. When we master our energy, success becomes inevitable.
The question is, are you ready to play the game differently?
Ros Jones rosjones@ businesswellbeing.club
Widowed mum of 3 draws on her loss and coaching experience to build more grief literacy
A widowed mum of three from Leeds has made a bold move officially launching her new venture, changing her career, to become a grief education specialist, delivering education and training as ‘The Grief Guru’, after her life fell apart in December 2022.
Just before Christmas 2022 her husband Pete went off to bed feeling unwell, and never woke up, changing Lou Hynes life, forever. In just a few short hours he had
collapsed unconscious, was taken to ICU and pronounced brain dead.
A fit, strong, healthy 40-yearold had contracted bacterial meningococcal meningitis which
took his life, thrusting Lou, 48, and their children into the depths of shock, trauma, loss and grief.
Since then, she has experienced the good, bad and ugly side of how people deal with someone grieving and she’s turned to her work, her clinical hypnotherapy
training and her coaching skills to help herself and her family deal with the trauma. Through this she found resilience and strength and now, as she reaches another crossroads, she’s felt compelled to share what she’s learnt with others.
“I knew I had to turn the most painful experience of my life into something good”, she said. “my mission and movement was born - to help create a more grief literate society. If my amazing husband had to die in such tragic circumstances, I’m damn well going to make something good from it”, she added.
Over the last 2 years Lou has dived headfirst into her clinical training and looked to expand her knowledge specifically around the neuroscience and psychology of grief, expanding her qualifications to also become a certified Grief Edu-Therapist. Having also trained as a professional speaker, Lou, a Certified Life Coach, has pivoted her previous business from career coaching, and is now actively working as a grief educator, keynote speaker and a one-to-one grief therapist and coach.
She said: “From an individual perspective I want to make a difference by sharing what I’ve learnt to help others also grieving. When we can understand what’s happening in our brains as we go through grief it doesn’t take the pain or suffering away but it helps us understand our emotions more and realise it’s a process we can’t escape. For over a year I battled on, not sure how to process the loss of my soulmate and experience a loss like I had never experienced before, despite losing others in my family and experienced baby
loss. I was told I was strong, but I was simply in denial, and it hit me 15 months later on Mother’s Day - when I literally could not move. I couldn’t get out of bed, and I couldn’t respond to anyone. I could see the kids’ mouths moving as they were talking to me, but I couldn’t hear their words, it was like I was in a scary and surreal daze. I had a mini breakdown - and this was my wakeup call that I had to let grief in”.
not at all equipped to deal with loss, bereavement or grief, so it’s no-ones fault. 23% of the UK adult working population will experience a bereavement in a 12-month period and yet a whopping 83% of the population agree they’re uncomfortable around grief. This needs to change. And pro-actively, not as a knee jerk reaction when the worst happens.”
In short, I help you become more comfortable with what we’re all so UNcomfortable with...
In her workshops and signature talks Lou helps people understand the psychology of grief and shares practical tips on what to say and NOT to say, as well as supporting organisations to then create support strategies. “In short, I help you become more comfortable with what we’re all so UNcomfortable with,” she says.
Her knowledge has since helped her on days she’s found it hard to function, as she’s learnt how our bodies and our brains react to trauma, and we can’t fast track the process. “By understanding it more it can help us feel a little more in control and also see that there will be better days ahead”, she said.
She added: “But it’s also important to me to start wider conversations and education around grief because it’s not just those grieving that need support. There are many times when friends, family and peers have had no idea how to behave around me. Sometimes I just get left out of things, other times I’m being wrapped in cotton wool, sometimes people just ignore what’s happened, others want all the details, how others react to us, and our grief can be hugely triggering and further add to our trauma, but as a society we are
Her talks are titled ‘Errr…. Sorry For Your Loss’ and her inspirational talk around her personal story from grief to growth is titled ‘Can There Be Life, After Loss?’
”I help companies create a more grief literate culture - so that when the one of four of them experience a bereavement in the next 12 months they will be equipped to help them from a place of compassion. We all tend to want to run in the opposite direction when it comes to talking about grief, don’t we? That’s probably why 88% of grievers agree to feeling alone/lonely in their grief. This needs to change. I help people understand grief, and let’s face it, as we’ll all know grief at some point in our lives it’s important that YOUR people don’t run a mile when it’s your turn.”
Lou, who was voted in the Top 20 Coaches in Leeds in 2022, is actively seeking speaking gigs for the rest of the year running grief education sessions for companies and workplaces.
Healthy foods help us to live longer
A recent survey published in The Times showed that a representative sample of more than 2000 adults found that 43 percent of 18-34 year olds and 32 percent of 3554 year olds have given up drinking alcohol entirely with more than half from both age groups saying they have reduced their consumption
This follows a YouGov survey that found 44 percent of drinkers between 18-24 they regularly order low or non-alcoholic drinks.
There is good news too if you’re trying to eat more healthily, you could already be doing it with many healthy common foods that can reduce your risk of dying from a chronic illness such as heart disease and cancer, already in your kitchen.
A Harvard University study has listed five common foods that can reduce your chances of dying from a chronic illness;
• Vegetables
• Fruit
• Whole grains
• Nuts
• Unsaturated oils
Harvard’s research found that from 100,000 people surveyed between 1986 and 2018, those who ate more of the five key foods not only lived longer but had a 15% lower risk of death from cancer and other diseases such as Alzheimer’s and cut their risk of death from respiratory diseases by half.
So what should we be doing to help us live longer?
The NHS have been advising people to eat five portions of fruit and vegetables a day for years, in fact that increased to seven portions in recent years. Beans and pulses are a great source of fibre but do contain fewer nutrients than other fruit and vegetables and sadly potatoes don’t
count although they do contain a valuable source of potassium, fibre and B vitamins.
We should all be eating more fruit, preferably in their whole form without added sugars and be careful of too many smoothies as
they can damage teeth as crushing fruit releases naturally occurring sugars. Tinned fruit is fine but do make sure you choose those in natural juice or water, not those in sugary syrups. And remember, fruit such as blueberries are classed as superfoods!
Fruit contains lots of vitamins and have lots of polyphenols that help to support gut health, brain health and wider health in general. You should try and aim for three to four portions a day.
Fibre is important to help digestion, improve gut health and helps prevent constipation. Whole grains such as brown rice and wholewheat pasta are rich in vitamins and dietary fibre and are some of the best foods for gut health. You could easily swap white bread for wholemeal or granary and make porridge with whole oats. These foods help keep us full between meals and regulate blood sugar.
The British Heart Foundation agree that snacking on nuts is a good option. They’re high in unsaturated fats and provide fibre, protein, vitamins and minerals. Better for you too than their salted peanut cousins! Nuts are brilliant for healthy fats, polyphenols and certain micro-nutrients such as selenium that are hard to find elsewhere.
Finally, unsaturated oils. The British Heart Foundation explains if you’re using olive oil to cook or as a salad dressing you’re already ticking the fat box! Fats are important in our diets, helping the body to absorb vitamins A, D and E but do go easy on saturated fats found in processed foods such as sausages, bacon, cheese, pastries and cakes.
Do you have any healthy recipes you can share with our readers that include these foods? If you do, send them to editor@ yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk and we will try them out and publish for you.
Pure theatre in the heart of Leeds
From the moment you enter The Alchemist you know you have arrived somewhere special. What better way is there than to absorb beautiful surroundings whilst sipping a sumptuous cocktail, whether it be in the vibrant buzz of Greek Street area where party-goers and after-workers gather or within the modern surroundings with wraparound roof terrace of Trinity Shopping Centre both in the heart of Leeds.
Both bars boast masterful cocktail mixology and devilishly delicious all-day dining to delight your senses in what can only be described as a world of theatre!
Yorkshire Businesswoman editor Gill Laidler was invited to visit to find out what delights the restaurant has to offer.
On arrival at the Greek Street restaurant, I was surprised at how large the restaurant / bar is. Passing the ground floor
outdoor terrace, the main entry is approached by a small flight
of stairs. I was met by manager Ben and shown to a high seated area. My guest and I were a little late, but were surprised by the number of diners already there for a Tuesday lunchtime.
Ben took time to tell us all about the Alchemist, not just the Leeds branches but the others scattered around the country from Scotland to London and everywhere inbetween.
Joining us for lunch, Ben steered us through the largest cocktail and mocktail menu I have ever seen. Most of the drinks on the menu are pure theatre in a glass, using dry ice and unusual glasses shaped as bubbles, pipes and hip flasks, pushing the boundaries of creativity, concocting an
unforgettable multi-sensory experience.
The two cocktails we chose were the ‘Lightbulb moment’ yes, served in a lightbulb shaped glass with lots of dry ice creating drama as it arrived. The drink was Tanqueray gin, Pimm's, ginger beer, raspberry, lemon and mint. We chose this as a mocktail. The other was a cocktail ‘The Legal One’, Tanqueray gin, pineapple, coconut, tropical vermouth, lime and tonic served in a glass shaped Shisha pipe, also surrounded by drama as it arrived.
We decided to order a number of dishes from the very extensive menu. From the snack choice we chose Chorizo & Cheddar dough balls, two large balls with syringes full of melted Cheddar cheese stuck in them. From the small plates we chose Bao buns filled with buttermilk chicken, cauliflower bites that were spicy
and gorgeous, tempura prawn lollypops and tender pulled beef on brioche. Complimenting from the sides menu we had Mac & cheese alongside salt and pepper fries.
There is also an extensive large plate menu with classic options of fish & chips, steak & chips
and chicken in a basket. The handheld menu offers burgers and sandwiches.
The Alchemist has the perfect menu for diners choosing a meal of their own, or like us, ordering a selection of dishes and sharing whilst enjoying a cocktail or two!
The decor is clean and modern with music playing at the right volume, although I suspect this is turned a little higher in the evening as the bar competes with many others on the very social Greek Street.
Finally, fancy taking something home. The Alchemist has a range of merchandise from glasses, hip flasks and beautiful star sign prints for sale.
Open 7 days a week, a perfect midweek lunch or a party atmosphere night out, there is something for everyone.
Capturing a new chapter through colour, texture and trainers!
A hidden gem in Holmfirth - by
Roth
Read
Photography
Escaping to beautiful locations for a photoshoot is always a treat! This time, that place was Devour at the Dyehouse – a vibrant restaurant set in a gloriously restored dyehouse, nestled beside a babbling stream in Thongsbridge, near Holmfirth.
Devour is the vision of Olivia Robinson, who brings the warmth and charm of Italian back-street trattorias to Yorkshire. A place where food, community, creativity, and hospitality come together in a truly special way.
You can enjoy a tantalising menu of seasonal regional dishes inspired by all things Italia in the Eatery, dine al fresco in The Riverside Garden terrace, or enjoy a drink in the stunning Bar area. The venue also offers classes rooted in exquisite food, including ceramic
flower making, pizza making, and even a foraging experience!
A new chapter for Liz
Our client, Liz Mayes, came to us to mark an exciting new chapter in her life. Liz is co-founder of Colourcube, the national awardwinning accident repair centre in Lepton, Huddersfield, where she has built a reputation for excellence.
Whilst the auto business remains her anchor, Liz has expanded her reach into other sectors, blending strategic insight with a bold, design-led mindset, through her second business Boltline.
With a background in childrenswear design for global brands, including Disney, Next, Frasers and Mothercare, she’s now redefining how design and innovation come together –whether on the production floor or the fashion runway.
Setting the scene
In our consultation, Liz wished for
No 1 Roth Read Photography
her photoshoot to feel personal, capturing a mix of urban energy and rustic charm in her beloved Yorkshire. She envisioned chunky wood textures, a lofted roof, and patterned wallpaper - plus space for her colourful glasses and bright trainers to stand out.
Devour fit the bill perfectly, with its rich furnishings, iron beams, and a clever blend of modern and industrial textures such as metal, wood, and leather.
The photoshoot
With Liz’s vision and the whole of Devour to explore, we have dived into the session.
Headshots don’t have to be overly formal - they can tell a story. We began with the bold wallpaper as a backdrop, styling her in a green jacket that played perfectly with the space’s vivid tones.
To show her fun, relaxed side,
Liz sat crossed legged on a chunky wooden table, holding her favourite Legends mug, with a stack of creative books to reflect her artistic streak.
Those books dropped into a later shot when she read in front of the window as a nod to her love of the outdoors. And that relaxed cross legged pose was picked up in a quieter moment as sat on an ornate rug with her iPad.
We created images for Liz that feel natural, warm, and unmistakably her. They strike the perfect balance: professional yet personal, stylish yet grounded.
A huge thank you to Olivia for her warm welcome to Devour, we’ll be back soon for lunch!
If you’re looking for photography that reflects your story and spirit, we’d love to hear from you.
Lincoln & Perrin Roth Read Photography www.rothreadphotography.com
Sleek shiny hair no matter what the weather
Robert Eaton, art director, Russell Eaton Salons
Summer Hair Care: keep your locks vibrant and effortlessly styled from beach to bar
The UK climate, with its drizzly, rainy days, is a constant headache for hair. All that moisture in the air leaves us battling frizz—not the fun kind that adds bounce to curly or coily hair, but the unwanted fuzziness that dulls shine. So, what’s the secret to achieving smooth, shiny locks despite the weather? Robert Eaton,
art director at Russell Eaton Salons, shares his top tips for maintaining glossy, radiant hair in any season.
The
science of shine
Under a microscope, each strand of hair is covered in a cuticle layer made up of tiny, semicircular
keratin scales. When these scales lie flat, your hair is smooth, shiny, and more reflective. Achieving this sleek look requires some care and a few styling tricks.
1.The power of heat
Much like ironing clothes, applying heat to your hair smooths out bumps and imperfections. Tools like blow dryers, curling irons, and straighteners can be used to tame the hair’s surface. For the best results, Robert Eaton
recommends holding your blow dryer above your head and pointing it downwards toward the floor. This technique ensures the cuticle layer lies flat, maximizing light reflection and leaving your hair shiny and sleek.
2. The gloss boosting benefits of colour
Hair colour can also enhance shine, as colour-treated hair naturally becomes more reflective. Eaton’s goto technique is to finish every colour service with a glaze treatment that locks in colour and boosts gloss for weeks. These glazes are available in both clear and pigmented formulas. Eaton often finishes highlights with a clear glaze or adds warmth and sparkle with a tinted version. “Even over the top of highlights, I always finish with a glaze, whether it’s clear or tinted to add warmth and sparkle,” he explains.
3. At-home care for lasting shine
Maintaining that salon-fresh shine at home is easier than you think. Robert
suggests using a hydrating hair mask once a week, but here’s the trick—after applying the mask, wrap your hair in a hot towel. You can heat the towel in the microwave for about 60 seconds, then leave it on until your hair cools down. This allows the cuticle to close and lock in moisture, leaving your
hair feeling hydrated and looking extra glossy.
New in: salon shine treatment— Shine Lines
If you’re looking to elevate your shine game even further, check out the new in-salon treatment at Russell Eaton’s Leeds and Barnsley locations—Shine Lines. This exclusive service mimics the way light naturally hits your hair, creating lines of shine and gloss that enhance your hair’s texture. It’s particularly great for fringes and adding dimension to waves and long hair. Prices for this innovative treatment start at £20, making it an affordable way to achieve that salonlevel glow.
By following these expert tips from Robert Eaton, you can enjoy sleek, shiny hair that resists the effects of the UK’s drizzly weather and glows with a healthy, vibrant sheen all year long.
h2h announces Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity as charity partner
York-based business h2h has appointed its charity partner for 2025-26, announcing a £10,000 fundraising goal in aid of Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity, which supports families who have a child with a life-threatening or terminal illness.
h2h will host a series of fundraising events over the next 12 months to hit its goal, including sporting challenges, sponsored networking days and employee activities. To mark the start of the partnership, h2h hosted a rainbow day, where team members were invited to wear their brightest clothes to the office.
Susan Binnersley, founder and MD of h2h, first heard of Rainbow
Trust almost 30 years ago, when her son was diagnosed with a brain tumour at just three months old. The charity provided the family with respite care, sibling support and bereavement counselling, amongst other valuable services.
Susan says: “This year would have been my son Daniel’s 30th birthday, so I wanted to do something meaningful in his memory to
help more families receive the life-changing support that we did. It felt appropriate to aim high with our fundraising target, but I’m confident that with the support of h2h’s colleagues, customers and wider network we will be able to meet our goal and ensure Rainbow Trust can continue providing its vital services.”
Katherine Burgess, corporate and community fundraising manager at Rainbow Trust, says: “We are very grateful that h2h have chosen us as their charity partner for 2025-26. Their fundraising goal of £10,000 will help us fund vital support to families with a seriously ill child. Without any central government funding, Rainbow Trust relies on support from organisations like h2h to ensure that families affected by serious childhood illness get the right support.”
Susan is taking part in Ripon’s Sprint Distance Triathlon in July, with a 750-metre swim, 23.4- km bike ride and 4.4-km run to raise money for the charity, while h2h is also inviting its customers and partners join the fundraising mission and suggest their own ideas on how to meet the ambitious target.
The decision to appoint a charity of the year is part of h2h’s ongoing focus on ESG and follows its recent accreditation from the Good Business Charter and Cyber Essentials schemes. h2h is also embedding its commitment to social responsibility through the donation of surplus office equipment to local schools and community groups, as well as offering pro-bono services to public sector organisations such as the NHS.
New director for Leeds Hospitals Charity
Leeds Hospitals Charity has announced Rebecca BaldaroBooth as its new director of grants and impact.
The new senior role aims to strengthen its mission supporting the largest teaching hospital in Europe - Leeds Teaching Hospitals.
The charity funds life-saving equipment, treatments, and research for the Leeds Teaching Hospital NHS Trust, one of the busiest hospitals in the UK, where 22,000 NHS staff care for over a million patients every year.
As well as funding improved patient care, Leeds Hospital Charity invests in innovative medical research and has led on groundbreaking appeals, including the Rob Burrow Centre for MND Appeal.
Rebecca takes on the role at a pivotal time as the charity is set to donate £3.5 million in 2025/6 to projects tackling
health inequalities, driving health technology and innovation, and developing new treatments for rare diseases.
After working in university academic partnerships for many years for Leeds Beckett University, Rebecca joined the Charity in March 2018 as a development manager before becoming head of grants in 2020.
Rebecca’s new role oversees the charity’s strategic grant-making process, ensuring funding has a measurable and lasting impact. She will also oversee the expansion of its volunteer service, further improving patient experience across its hospital sites.
Rebecca said: “It’s a real privilege to take on this important role. Our grants support pioneering and lifeenhancing innovations that have a direct and lasting impact on patient care. I look forward to working closely
with our partners to continue making a difference to patient lives and staff wellbeing.”
Recent advances the charity has funded to improve patient care include surface-guided radiotherapy eliminating the need for permanent tattoos in cancer care, virtual reality headsets as a distraction tool for children in hospital, and providing Comfort Care Packs to families of end-of-life patients.
Over the last five years, it has invested £7.06 million to kickstart research projects across Leeds Teaching Hospitals.
Rebecca added: “Leeds is at the forefront of so many extraordinary research projects that have the potential to transform outcomes for patients across Yorkshire and beyond. We’re committed to funding new and ongoing studies offering hope to patients living with life-limiting conditions. It’s also vital we continue to fund early career researchers in Leeds, unlocking career progression and spearheading life-changing, ground-breaking research.”
Esther Wakeman, chief executive said: “Rebecca’s appointment signals the charity’s continued investment in innovation and impact. She brings expertise and energy to a role that is central to improving health outcomes and enhancing the patient experience across Leeds. She will also help leverage additional investment through matched funding and philanthropic support, further strengthening our city’s position as a hub for world class healthcare and research..”
Grant applications are available May, June, September, and October.
How small changes in our garden can help change the planet
More than ever, we are aware that biodiversity of species in our parks, gardens and hedgerows is vitally important for our own survival. The expansion of urban areas and road building, along with commercial farming practices and the use of neonicotinoids, have led to a drastic reduction in numbers of species. The U.K. is suffering a significant decline in our native species, with a reduction of 19% since 1970. Furthermore, 1 in 6 of our species now faces extinction.
So, what, you might ask. What’s the big deal? Each of these species, no matter how unappealing to look at, plays a vital part in the ecosystem. They contribute to the quality of the
air we breathe, the water we drink, and as Jeremy Clarkson correctly pointed out, the food we eat.
There is hope, however. As
gardeners, even if only on the smallest scale, we can nurture and assist our native species to survive and do their valuable work. With that in mind, here are my favourite ideas that I have gathered over the years.
On a Wing and a Prayer
According to Butterfly Conservation, 2024 was a terrible year for butterflies. Butterflies are not just
Michaela Axford our regular gardening contributor shares tips with us on what we can plant and grow ourselves.
they are an essential component in pollination, and their caterpillars are the main source of food for Blue Tit hatchlings. They also have hugely significant cultural importance.
What to do:
• Make a muddy puddle. Believe it or not, some species of these precious winged gems will seek their water from muddy pools. Scrape out a concave dip in some bare soil and fill it with water. Simple.
• Grow hibernation shelters. Clematis, Ivy and Holly trained up a sunny wall or a shed will provide much needed shelter for our winged friends.
• Serve up a nectar dinner. Every garden should have a buddleia. You will be rewarded with a plethora of Peacock butterflies is divine.
Whistle Like a Blackbird
Unscrupulous developers who net trees and avian flu have had a devastating effect on our native birds. Sadly, the quintessentially British Blackbird also faces a new devastating threat from Usutu Virus. How can we continue to support these delightful songbirds without spreading the virus?
1. Clean and disinfect bird feeders every week. Whilst birds love the treats, we leave out for them, sadly the droppings and dropped food morsels spread disease rapidly.
2. Stop mosquitoes from breeding by emptying and refilling water containers and bird baths every
3. Watch out for signs of disease. Sick Blackbirds will appear lethargic and to lack coordination.
A Big Frog in a Small Pond
Frogs, toads and newts are vital for pest control and food chain dynamics. I am delighted to announce that I
appear to have some efts - baby newts - in the mini pond on the allotment. They are a superb natural form of pest control, using their sticky tongues to catch crane flies, slugs, midge larvae and caterpillars. It is very easy to encourage native amphibians to your garden, and toads will readily accept a dark and shady corner such as an upturned pot or some decking
as a shelter. A tiny mini-pond will provide space for frogs and toads to lay their spawn - frogs are particularly unfussy about location - and this can be achieved by simply placing a large watertight pot at ground level or buying a small and inexpensive pond form. A couple of plants placed in or around the edge will encourage not only amphibians to breed, but also dragonflies, damsel flies and many species of pollinators such as hover flies. Just be very careful when mowing or trimming the lawn. Many a helpful toad has come a cropper when an unobservant gardener has struck them with a mower.
Let Your Garden Blossom Out
Even the smallest of gardens can contain a tree. Trees are vital for biodiversity as they provide food and shelter for vast numbers of fauna no matter how big or small they may be. If you don’t have a front yard, it is possible to have a small tree to stand beside the front door. A standard Viburnum Tinus (I recommend the “Eve Price” variety) planted in a heavy square terracotta pot will reward you with fragrant blossoms, add some kerb appeal, and provide a haven for wildlife. Some beautiful blousy Ranunculus and Primulas planted around the base, perhaps with some trailing alyssum, look superb and a beautiful fusion of naturalistic and modern architectural garden styling.
Fostering biodiverse approaches to our gardening allows us to connect with the natural world and makes for a far greater appreciation of what we have. By making a few simple additions to our outdoor spaces, even if on the tiniest of scales, we can make a significant local impact to our environment.
The gym helps me stay on top of the challenges of perimenopause
Write for You founder and 40 plus blogger Claire Kenny on the challenges during menopause.
This photo popped up as a memory on my Facebook feed recently,and I felt it in my SOUL.
It's me in my late thirties. I was completely lost and didn't have a clue who I was. I did not exercise, had no passions, and I didn't look after myself.
What I did have though, was a very vague notion of what I wanted my life to be like. What it could be like if I dared to dream. I couldn't stop thinking about certain things, like sharing my writing, maybe even presenting, joining a gym, and being debt-free.
I didn’t believe any of these things would happen, nor did I have the motivation, tools or conviction to make them happen.
I even remember telling myself one New Year’s Eve that if I could just get through the next twenty years or
so, I could at least retire to the coast and stop pretending to be happy.
I think that’s the low point I chose to bounce back from.
Very slowly, I turned things around by listening to the things I couldn't stop thinking about and teaching myself ways to make them real. I started sharing my writing - anonymously at first - to document my journey and give hope to people in the same way that other writers and bloggers had helped me.
Then I joined a gym, then a running club. Then I started doing speaking online despite massive imposter syndrome and appearing on podcasts.
I’ve come full-circle lately and have joined a gym again (a very swanky one). It feels decadent but I see it as an investment as it helps me stay on top of the challenges of perimenopause. People often say:
"You're always at the gym now!" And yes, I am, but after feeling like a total buffoon there for the first few months, I now feel invincible as soon as I walk in, and like I can achieve anything when I walk out!
And when you're trying to realise a vision in the middle of a political and economic storm, believe me you need to feel invincible as frequently as possible!
Despite the world being in a bit of a pickle now (and that’s the understatement of the century), I have a life the old me couldn't have dreamt of. And I feel like if I keep being brave and listening to myself, it'll get even better.
I hope that if you’re feeling like I felt, regardless of your age or stage of life, reading about my journey helps you.
Because if I can turn my life around to the point where I no longer recognise my old self (who was a lovely person and did her best), believe me, you can too.
Practicing a mindful haircare regime
By: Janet Milner-Walker - Founder of Bespoke Advantage
our modern-day lives perceives gifting ourselves with moments of solitude as selfish. Revitalises our skin
Practicing self-care is precisely what we need, placing this primarily in our day. An all-encompassing term, self-care extends beyond our health, wellbeing, fitness, mindset through to our daily beauty regimes – from facials, to massage, manicures, pedicures, and haircare. We know that self-care provides us with a sense of calmness, and serenity, enabling us to navigate opportunities along with challenges. However, we rush through our day, treating these yet another task to tick off an ever-extending list rather than a moment for us to savour. This is set to change. Welcome to Zen haircare, where we can transform our haircare regime into a mindful ritual.
Mindfulness is the art of being present in the moment, aware of our thoughts, feelings, and senses without judgement of them. Through creating acceptance we can reduce stress, improve our mental clarity, and focus on achieving our goals. From brushing, to washing and styling your hair – activities you conduct with little thought on auto pilot – through being mindful, you can turn this moment in time into a meditative practice, embracing
Brands focusing on mindful
Champo is built on the science of Ayurveda, which considers hair a vital tissue, due to its proximity to our central nervous system. They recommend incorporating haircare rituals into your beauty regime a few minutes each day or week, to reduce stress and improve your wellbeing.
Aveda is a haircare brand that has been around for many years, they manufacture their products with 100% wind power, and their products are renowned for repairing your hair, leaving it feeling soft and bouncy.
• Virtue is a science-backed brand that produces lab-made protein mimics, that naturally occur as protein in our bodies. Free of synthetic dyes and colours, their products are safe for sensitive scalps.
How to build mindfulness into your haircare regime
1. Embrace this morning ritual as an opportunity to start your day positively. Jumping into your morning shower to wash your hair may be one of the first things you do at the start of your day. As you carefully select your shampoo and conditioner, become aware of the ingredients and their benefits, the scent of the fragrance, the temperature of the water and the sensation of the lather and the water as it washes your hair.
2. As you immerse yourself in the experience set an intention for your day. Do you have a busy day ahead where a sense of confidence is imperative? Are you attending a wedding or an event where you want to feel beautiful? Do you have a romantic trip away where you want to feel sensual and feminine? Focus on how you want to feel today and visualise yourself feeling this way.
3. We are now far more aware of the importance of our scalp health, to the overall health of our hair, and how a healthy scalp encourages hair growth and prevents hair loss. Incorporate a scalp massage into your haircare regime, using gentle, calming motions to encourage blood circulation.
4. Apply a hair mask to your hair and leave it on for ten minutes. As the product penetrates your hair follicles, repeat daily affirmations that bring about feelings of positivity. Build deep breathing into your haircare regime to relax and reduce your stress levels. Be present in the
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.
moment as you focus on your breath, if your mind starts to wander gently bring it back to your present moment and focus on your haircare regime.
5. Our hair is our crowning glory, when our hair looks healthy, glossy and in peak condition, we feel confident. As you dry, style, and brush your hair, take care to protect it from heat and damage, use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle your hair. Express gratitude for the health of your hair.
6. Create a haven in a corner of your bathroom or your bedroom to practice your haircare regime, enhance the aesthetics with candles and gentle lighting and soothing music. As your regime ends, take a moment to reflect on how you feel and use this moment as an opportunity to reconnect with your inner sense of harmony. Be compassionate, gently appreciative of the beauty of your hair and reflect on how your haircare regime can bring joy and serenity to the start of your day.
Rodney Pedroza Portraits London
The power of Yoga: supporting women’s health through every stage of life
As busy professionals, we often put our health and well-being last on the list. But yoga offers a powerful way to support both body and mind—especially for women navigating the demands of work, family and life’s many transitions.
In your 20s and 30s, yoga can help counteract stress, support hormonal balance and boost focus— ideal for highperformance work environments. Just a few minutes of mindful movement or breath-work can reset your nervous system and improve mental clarity.
For pregnant professionals or new mothers returning to work, yoga supports both physical recovery and emotional resilience. It eases tension, strengthens the body and provides
much-needed calm in a time of big change.
As we move into our 40s and 50s, yoga becomes a valuable ally during hormonal shifts. It helps manage menopause symptoms like anxiety, fatigue and brain fog, while also improving bone health and posture— especially important for those of us sitting at a desk all day.
In later years, yoga helps maintain
mobility, prevent injury and enhance mental clarity— keeping you sharp and steady both in business and life.
Yoga meets you where you are. Whether you have five minutes between meetings or time for a full class, it’s a powerful, accessible way to invest in yourself.
I offer yoga and relaxation sessions specifically designed for women in business—practical, effective and rooted in real-life needs.
Get in touch to learn more or joinasession.www.NadineHill. co.uk Claire is on Instagram @ my40pluslife.me
Bed industry leaders call for caution over mattress imports
Leaders in the bed industry in Yorkshire, where almost half of UK bed and mattress manufacturing is based, are warning that US tariffs could create a damaging knock-on effect for Yorkshire-based bed and mattress companies as well as consumers.
Experts are bracing themselves for a rise in the number of potentially unsafe, non-compliant mattresses being shipped to the UK following the huge import duties the US has placed on Chinese products, which could also erode sales of legitimate products made in the region.
The new 145% tariffs on Chinesemanufactured products will lead to many Chinese exporters seeking new markets such as the UK to replace the US which is now unviable, and the UK already imported over £6.8m worth of Chinese-made mattresses in February 2025, a number that grew by 42% over the previous month as the threat of tariffs loomed.
“There is no doubt that we will see a rise in Chinese produced mattresses coming into British and Irish ports where we have much lower duties for importers than now in the US, and these will be in direct competition to those products made in the region to exacting UK standards,” said Fara Butt, director at Dewsbury-based bed manufacturer Shire Beds, and board director at the National Bed Federation.
“Yorkshire has a really important cluster in the sleep sector, employing a significant number of people in manufacturing, retail and their supply chain. The work of the NBF, based in Skipton, ensures that NBF members
manufacture safe, clean and compliant mattresses giving the UK consumer peace of mind. Retailers also know that when they sell a mattress made by an NBF member, they are offering a product that meets UK standards and that they are supporting British and Irish jobs, many of which are in Yorkshire.”
The NBF works closely with Trading Standards and is warning consumers to be mindful of buying products that do not meet UK regulations and standards.
Tristine Hargreaves, executive director of the NBF added; “We already know that when people have less money in their pockets, they are tempted to buy what can appear to be ‘bargain’ mattresses. Unfortunately, we are expecting a wave of products to hit the UK as a result of the overnight shift in export markets for Chinese manufacturers, many of whom already had products manufactured for the US market where product safety standards, in particular flammability can be different from the UK and may result in non-compliant products on the market.
“More than ever, people buying products from online marketplaces such as Facebook and Amazon should be very careful to do their due diligence and be 100% sure that the products they are buying are bona fide and meet UK standards. The old adage of that if the price seems too good to be true, it probably is comes to mind.”
“It’s a false economy to buy a cheaper product that is likely to last a fraction of the time of mattresses that meet the NBF’s stringent standards, so consumers need to look out for the ‘made by an approved NBF member’ logo which gives peace of mind that the products meet all of the UK’s regulatory standards.”
Insight-Driven Success: Fantastic Media powers the launch of menopause wellness brand M-Club
Leeds-based strategic marketing agency Fantastic Media has been appointed to lead the high-profile launch of M-Club, a groundbreaking menopause-focused brand created by West Yorkshire healthcare innovators, The Body Doctor.
Designed for women. Dedicated to menopause.
The M-Club brand has been created to fulfil a gap in the market for menopausespecific products, and empower women, so that they can understand what’s happening to them, why it’s happening, and get the support they need.
Backed by experts, M-Club offers 18 affordable, high-quality products across three carefully curated ranges designed to provide support through every stage of the menopause. M-Body products focus on alleviating the physical effects of menopause, M-Power is designed to boost energy, instil balance and promote well-being, while M-Bed encourages better rest and rejuvenation through sleep.
Alongside the product range, M-Club is dedicated to building a community for real women to connect and share their stories and solutions for dealing with the challenges of menopause. M-Club offers guidance, expert advice and tools and resources to help demystify menopause and its stages.
All M-Club products are accredited with the MTick from GenM, the menopause partner for brands. This means M-Club has provided evidence that its entire range meets MTick’s strict criteria and can display the exclusive MTick symbol on packaging to signpost the range as menopause-friendly.
Sue Grant MBE, co-founder and managing director of The Body Doctor Ltd, said, “With over half of
the female population in the UK on their menopause journey, the demand for dedicated menopause products and guidance is ever-growing. Keeping this rising demand in mind, we wanted to create a place where women can find all the information and knowledge they need to face the menopause with confidence, with a range of bespoke products designed to support specific symptoms – M-Club.”
Insight That Inspires Action
At the core of Fantastic Media’s approach is its Insight process, a proven
Sue Grant
methodology designed to deliver tailored marketing strategies that are rooted in real business goals, audience understanding, and commercial outcomes.
For M-Club, this strategic deep dive began with an in-depth discovery workshop to understand the thinking and research behind the brand’s creation, followed by market research and analysis, all with the goal of creating a marketing campaign that would resonate authentically with both trade and consumer audiences.
This collaborative, insight-led approach provided the M-Club team with clarity and direction, allowing for the seamless development of a launch strategy.
“We knew we wanted a big impact roll-out for M-Club and that’s where we turned to Fantastic,” said Sue Grant MBE. “We already had a strong brand but required support in developing an integrated go-to-market strategy. The Insight process helped us fully map this out across multiple channels and audiences. It allowed us to align every part of the activation with our purpose – empowering women through menopause.”
Strategy Into Action
Armed with insights from the early strategic phase, Fantastic Media developed and executed a fullspectrum marketing launch for M-Club. This included the creation of a full e-commerce website and digital platform, tailored not just to sell, but to inform, support, and build a thriving community around the menopause experience.
The launch campaign spanned digital advertising, paid social, print collateral, and a major PR drive across national, regional, and trade media. Key to the
strategy was highlighting the M-Club’s presence in selected Boots stores nationwide, Amazon, and M-Club’s own dedicated e-commerce platform.
The Menopause Market Key Facts and Figures
• The menopause is an inevitable part of every woman’s life –20% of the UK population are menopausal at any one time (approx.15.5m women in the UK, and 1 billion globally). *
• 45% of UK women feel isolated during menopause and 61% admit to being blindsided and unprepared for menopause. *
• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is not a silver bullet. 86% of UK women are seeking alternative and complimentary products and solutions to manage their menopause better. *
• 94% of UK women want to shop menopause-labelled products (vs 80% in 2023) and 89% say that they would trust a brand that called out specific menopause-friendly labelling. *
• 58% of UK perimenopausal women say that retailers don’t do enough to flag menopause-friendly products in their stores/online and 83% haven’t noticed any specific menopause-related signage in-store or online. *
• *Gen-M UK Visibility Report 2024. 2,010 UK women aged 3560 were surveyed in May 2024 in a nationally representative sample (by region, age and socio-economic group) covering women from pre-perimenopause through to post-menopause*
“Our Insight process confirmed the opportunity in the market; a lack of clear, supportive, expert-led advice for women experiencing menopause,” said Gary Pattison, Director of Strategy & Insight at Fantastic Media. “We knew M-Club had the credentials and credibility to fill that space. By building the strategy around the existing brand that The Body Doctor team had developed, we delivered a campaign that reflected its purpose and truly connected with our target audience.”
A Blueprint for Business Growth
M-Club’s launch is a standout example of what Fantastic Media’s Insight process delivers: a holistic, insight-led approach that transforms business ambition into measurable marketing success. Whether launching a new brand, repositioning an existing one, or building market share, this process ensures that strategy and creativity are aligned with business goals from day one.
“We don’t believe in off-the-shelf marketing,” added Pattison. “Every business has unique challenges and opportunities. Our job is to uncover those and build campaigns that deliver results. M-Club is proof of what’s possible when strategic marketing leads the way.”
Fantastic Media continues to support leading brands across the UK and internationally, including Skopes Menswear, British Weightlifting, STADA Thornton & Ross, and Leeds United Football Club.
For businesses looking to launch, scale or transform their brand, Fantastic’s Insight process offers a powerful foundation for longterm success.
Looks great, natty party trick….but what is it?
The MG Cyberster attracts plenty of attention.By:
Motoring Correspondant Graham Courtney
You’ll need a lot of patience if you drive an MG Cyberster until it becomes a more familiar sight. We’re struggling to think of another car which saw so many folk wandering up to us and asking…”What is it?”
There’s also a surprised look when they discover it’s a Chinese-built MG.
If you think the Cyberster looks very European rather than very Chinese, that’s because MG’s UK-based design team had a massive amount of creative input. We’re sure that MG enthusiasts will approve.
£54,995 (May ‘25) gets you into the MG Cyberster. There are two models available, starting with a single motor, rear-wheel drive Trophy version followed by the twin motor, all-wheel drive performance focussed GT model (add £5k). The cars are visually
identical apart from different alloys. No difference inside either. You’re paying for the additional oomph.
The one we had was the GT and it’s a firecracker of a car producing 489bhp and a decidedly rapid 0-60 time of 3.2 seconds. Top speed for both is 121mph… range in the GT is 276 miles. A 10-80% charge will take an estimated 38 minutes on a rapid charger. A typical home charger will take around 10 hours.
The party piece is the scissor doors. Plip the handset as you approach the car and, after a slight delay while the window drops an inch or so, the door
swings up and out. The important thing is that they work without too much of a delay and make access really simple. Flick a switch on the centre console and down she goes.
The soft-top roof is equally swift, opening or closing in around 15 seconds. It will operate at speeds up to 30 mph so no need to stop if the unpredictable British weather drops a shower.
The interior is extremely smart and appears to be well built. There are three screens in front of the driver (10.3-inch for the main screen and 7.0-inch for the outer screens) and one central 7.0-inch touchscreen next to the gear selectors. The middle one of the three is for essential stuff like battery condition and speed. The small screen to the left features the sat nav while the one to the
right shows the reversing camera image and other info. The outer screens are slightly obscured by the steering wheel, but they’re clear and useful.
There’s a small screen towards the centre of the dashboard which is for altering the climate settings.
The whole dashboard is curved towards the driver…looks good and works well, as does the rest of the cabin which is roomy for a roadster. The powered seats are supportive and comfy, and there’s storage space behind them. No surprise that the boot isn’t particularly large but it’ll easy cope with a couple of overnight cases.
Venture onto the road and if you are wanting an out and out sports car, you’ll be disappointed. There’s a hefty battery slung under the floorpan which blunts the handling. The suspension is set-up for comfort rather than agility. That’s fine by us.
The GT version is genuinely quick. Hit the sport mode button and the car bristles with energy. There’s even a launch control. Whether you need that extra performance is down to a personal preference. We think the Trophy model is plenty quick…and it’s five grand cheaper.
Treat the car as a weekend or holiday cruiser, and you’ll love it. The Cyberster is also the sort of rag top which doubles-up nicely as dayto-day transport. There’s very little wind buffeting below 60mph and of course you ride along in near silence.
In terms of kit, MG hasn’t skimped on the sort of stuff we all like…sat nav, DAB radio, powered and heated seats, auto LED lights, climate control, parking camera and a host of safety gizmos.
If you are looking for a 2-seater, EV roadster, then at the moment you have only the MG Cyberster to go for. A Porsche Boxster EV is on the way, but MG Cyberster in comparison will look like cracking value. Throw in the fact that it has a drop-dead
gorgeous design, is nicely equipped, good to drive if you treat it like a holiday cruiser, comes with a 7-year / 80,000 mile warranty and will hold onto its value better than nearly any other EV, and you can see why it’s worth a serious look.
Northern Ballet dance prize for Gentleman Jack
Northern Ballet’s ground-breaking new full-length production based on the life of Anne Lister has won the FEDORA - VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Dance Prize 2025.
In October 2024 Northern Ballet announced the creation of a major new full-length ballet based on the extraordinary life of 19th century icon Anne Lister, or ‘Gentleman Jack’, the historical Yorkshire figure often referred to as ‘the first modern lesbian’ whose decoded diaries have captivated audiences around the world. Gentleman Jack will open in Leeds before touring to Sheffield, Nottingham, Salford, London, Norwich and Bradford. A co-production with Finnish National Ballet and Opera, they will perform the ballet in Helsinki in April 2028.
Established in 2013, FEDORA is a non-profit association committed to supporting and contributing to the future of opera and dance in Europe by encouraging emerging artists to renew these genres, making them more accessible for a large audience.
The FEDORA prizes support artistic projects that promote international collaboration, creativity, social integration and intercultural dialogue.
The FEDORA - VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Dance Prize awards productions that
reimagine dance for the 21st century, rethinking how ballets are created and who they are created for.
Gentleman Jack was selected as the winner of the FEDORA - VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Dance Prize 2025 from a shortlist of eight dance projects by an independent jury panel of experts. Previous winners include Hofesh Schechter Company, Rambert Dance Company and The Fondazione I Teatri Reggio Emilia.
A carefully selected, majority female, artistic team will ensure that Anne Lister’s story is staged with respect and maximum impact including Sally Wainwright, series-writer of the BBC/HBO TV series Gentleman Jack; choreographer Annabelle Lopez Ochoa and New Zealand-based composer Claire Cowan who will create a new score for Gentleman Jack to be played live.
The creative team will explore the narrative of this fiercely independent woman who defied societal norms
and expectations, presenting a unique opportunity to tell her story through the powerful medium of dance, pushing artistic boundaries to explore the traditionally gendered language of classical ballet to convey Anne Lister’s complex character.
Artistic director Federico Bonelli said: “We are thrilled to have been awarded the FEDORA - VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Dance Prize 2025 for Gentleman Jack. I couldn’t be more delighted to have an incredible creative team, led by choreographer Annabelle Lopez Ochoa, developing this story for the stage. FEDORA’s recognition highlights what we are trying to do with this ballet, using the artform we love to tell new and different stories, in this instance telling the life of a gay woman who was a trailblazer of her time. Thank you to FEDORA for this award, we cannot wait to bring this story to life”
The Creative Floral Workshop and Brunch will take place on Friday, 25th April 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at The Ivy York. Spaces are limited, and tickets can be booked at https://thisisyorkshirebeauty.com/.
