VOX Magazine - issue 10

YOUR QUARTERLY BUSINESS MAGAZINE CONNECTING CHESTER & WREXHAM

VOX

YOUR QUARTERLY BUSINESS MAGAZINE CONNECTING CHESTER & WREXHAM

Welcome to VOX. Your voice to target the business community across Chester and Wrexham. Whether you are based in Chester or Wrexham, or are keen to reach the businesses that are, our magazine has been specifically designed to reach the people that matter.

Clara Hughes Editorial Director

Meet the team:

Clara lives in Chester and runs a successful marketing company, Zebra Marketing and Communications (www.zebra-comms.co.uk), that has been operating locally, nationally and internationally since 2010. Clara specialises in strategic marketing, copywriting, media relations and services relating to events, exhibitions and conferences.

01978 437070 | 07702 736763 clara@ezpublishing.co.uk

Recycle

Vicky Heathfield Creative Director & Advertising

Vicky lives just outside Wrexham and owns and produces EssentialsMAG (www.essentialsmag.co.uk) – a local monthly community magazine which is hand-delivered through 14,000 letterboxes in and around Wrexham. She is also a successful graphic designer and artist and has been working in the creative industries since 1992 and established her first business in 2003.

01978 855459 | 07740 945795 vicky@ezpublishing.co.uk

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Welcome

Welcome to our latest issue of VOX

March, April and May are very much the spring months, with (hopefully) warmer days and lighter nights. After a grey and unseasonably mild winter, it is lovely to see the first signs of the summer months approaching, though we might get a bit more ‘winter’ first. This issue is also our 10th issue since VOX started. We have met some incredible people on our journey so far and we can’t wait to see what the next 10 issues will bring!

What’s in store?

Not that we are excited by the prospect of better weather, but it does seem to have added a ‘spring’ to our step. It’s definitely preferable to be delivering the magazine when we don’t run the risk of slipping over or frostbite, as well as sore feet! It is also apt that one of our features this issue is an interview with English Heritage, where we had chance to find out more about Chester Castle (page 16). Also, along with our regular business news, charity updates and all the usual features, in this issue we have also fortunate enough to speak with two members of the family behind the hugely successful Wrexham Lager. Sharon and Jon are the focus of our ‘In conversation’ article (page 24) and you can find out more about some of their exciting business and community plans.

Help us raise your voice

Our advertisers, interviewees and other contributors are vital to the ongoing success of VOX, and as ever, we would like to thank everyone who has helped us to create our latest issue. Sharing different viewpoints and insights across different businesses, is something that we love. Another thing that we love is seeing what our resident artist Emma Gore develops for the front cover. This time her work depicts Tŷ Pawb, and we hope you’ll agree she has done this community space credit.

We want to make VOX the voice for local businesses – a platform where we can share your stories and experiences of the region, enjoy your successes and be proud to be part of a community uniting these two important economic hubs. To make this happen, there is still time to share your views and tell us more about what you would be interested in reading about.

We hope you enjoy reading our latest issue of VOX.

Clara and Vicky

Croeso

Croeso i'n rhifyn diweddaraf o VOX

Mae Mawrth, Ebrill a Mai yn fisoedd y gwanwyn, gyda dyddiau cynhesach a nosweithiau goleuach (gobeithio). Ar ôl gaeaf llwyd ac anhymhorol o fwyn, mae'n hyfryd gweld yr arwyddion cyntaf bod misoedd yr haf yn nesáu, er efallai y cawn ychydig mwy o 'aeaf' yn gyntaf. Y rhifyn hwn hefyd yw ein 10fed rhifyn ers i VOX ddechrau. Rydym wedi cyfarfod â rhai pobl anhygoel ar ein taith hyd yn hyn ac allwn ni ddim aros i weld beth ddaw gyda’r 10 rhifyn nesaf!

Beth sydd ar y gweill?

Nid ein bod wedi ein cyffroi gan y rhagolygon o dywydd gwell, ond mae'n ymddangos ei fod wedi ein gwneud yn sioncach ein cam. Mae'n bendant yn well bod yn dosbarthu'r cylchgrawn pan nad ydym mewn perygl o lithro drosodd neu rewi’n gorn, yn ogystal â chael traed tost! Mae hefyd yn addas mai un o'n nodweddion yn y rhifyn hwn yw cyfweliad ag English Heritage, lle cawsom gyfle i ddarganfod mwy am Gastell Caer (tudalen 16). Hefyd, ynghyd â’n newyddion busnes rheolaidd, diweddariadau elusennol a’r holl erthyglau nodwedd arferol, rydym wedi bod yn ddigon ffodus yn y rhifyn hwn i siarad â dau aelod o’r teulu y tu ôl i’r fenter Wrexham Lager hynod lwyddiannus. Sharon a Jon yw canolbwynt ein herthygl 'Mewn sgwrs' (tudalen 24) a gallwch ddarganfod mwy am rai o'u cynlluniau busnes a chymunedol cyffrous.

Helpwch ni i godi eich lais

Mae ein hysbysebwyr, cyfweleion a chyfranwyr eraill yn hanfodol i lwyddiant parhaus VOX ac, fel erioed, hoffem ddiolch i bawb sydd wedi ein helpu i greu ein rhifyn diweddaraf. Mae rhannu safbwyntiau a mewnwelediadau gwahanol ar draws gwahanol fusnesau yn rhywbeth yr ydym yn hoff iawn ohono. Peth arall yr ydym yn hoff ohono yw gweld yr hyn y mae ein hartist preswyl, Emma Gore, yn ei ddatblygu ar gyfer y clawr blaen. Y tro hwn mae ei gwaith yn darlunio Tŷ Pawb, a gobeithiwn y cytunwch ei bod hi’n haeddu clod amdano.

Rydym am wneud VOX yn llais i fusnesau lleol – llwyfan lle gallwn rannu eich straeon a’ch profiadau o’r rhanbarth, mwynhau eich llwyddiannau ac ymfalchïo mewn bod yn rhan o gymuned sy’n uno’r ddau ganolbwynt economaidd pwysig hyn. Er mwyn gwneud i hyn ddigwydd, mae dal amser i rannu eich barn a dweud mwy wrthym am yr hyn y byddai gennych ddiddordeb mewn darllen amdano.

Gobeithio y byddwch yn mwynhau darllen ein rhifyn diweddaraf o VOX.

Clara and Vicky

Festival of ideas takes flight

This year sees the launch of Chester Festival of Ideas from 4-7 July 2024. Chester Festival of Ideas is a programme of free, inclusive and accessible public events, in and around Chester, co-created by the University of Chester and city partners. Themes of the festival include: Sustainable Communities, Arts, Culture and Creativity, Health and Wellbeing, Investigating History, Scientific Futures, Showcasing Business and Entrepreneurship.

Several speakers are already confirmed for the Festival, with events such as discussion panels, theatre, pop-up exhibitions, interactive activities, music, readings, guided walks and many more in the planning. Actress, presenter, broadcaster, writer, campaigner and parliamentarian, Baroness Floella Benjamin, who has also been awarded an OBE, DBE (Officer and Damehood of the British Empire) and a Doctor of Letters from the University, is among the guests presenting free public talks. Speakers also include historian, writer, broadcaster, presenter and filmmaker, Professor David Olusoga, and GP and menopause specialist, Dr Louise Newson.

Chester Town Hall will be the hub for the festival during the four days, while events will also take place in other venues across Chester. You can find out more about the festival through the website: festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk

Showing the cathedral in a new light

Discovery by Luxmuralis was a spectacular immersive journey for people to walk through and explore the Cathedral in a new light. The installation, which ran through until 21 February, gave visitors the opportunity to ponder our relationship with the planet Earth and beyond. Installations of sound and light art provided a journey through space and visitors had the chance to see original footage of the rocket launch, explore the creation story and the Big Bang within the sacred space, then view the final image of Earth, as if looking back from space under a galaxy of stars.

Next generation of hospitality workers

Delivered by Coleg Cambria, the FdA in Tourism and Hospitality Management has been revamped to meet the demands of the industry post-Covid. Learners can study for two years at the college’s Yale site in Wrexham, before completing a third ‘top-up year’ on the BA (Hons) International Tourism Management degree, or a related course at Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU). Programme Lead Angharad Jarvis said a wide range of careers are out there for graduates and more opportunities than ever before in a variety of roles, from restaurant managers to bar staff.

Hanging on the telephone:

biggest business bugbears in Wales

A new survey by leading outsourced communications provider Moneypenny, shows the biggest bugbears in Wales when trying to contact a business are annoying hold music (37%) and calls not being answered (32%).

The survey also shows that a major source of irritation in Wales is when companies don’t put their phone number on their website – cited frustrating by 72% of respondents.

Moneypenny’s Customer Communications Trend Report also highlights that a bad call experience can significantly impact ongoing business success, as 40% of respondents in Wales say they would go elsewhere following a poor call, while 32% would make a complaint and 32% would tell friends and family.

Joanna Swash, Group CEO at Moneypenny, commented: “Our survey shows that people want to talk to people, but poor phone etiquette is a major turn-off, and it’s costing firms business. Just one bad call can result in lost revenue and a damaged reputation.”

Chester law firm welcomes new partner appointment

Helen Johnson has become a partner at Aaron & Partners, which has offices in Chester, Shrewsbury and Manchester, as part of the firm’s commitment to the future growth of the business. After four years heading up the firm’s marketing and business development team, Aaron & Partners has invited Helen Johnson to join the partnership, becoming the firm’s second non-lawyer partner.

The move highlights Aaron & Partners’ commitment to key business functions in its ongoing growth and success, by rewarding and recognising the achievements of both lawyers and non-lawyer staff. Helen, who joined the Chester-headquartered legal firm in April 2019, said: “It’s certainly not the norm within the legal sector for non-lawyers to become partners, so I’d like to thank the business for recognising my contribution and encouraging me in my personal development over the past four years.

“Becoming a partner really gives me the mandate to continue the work my team has been delivering, enhancing the reputation of the firm and working with the senior team, to develop the direction for the business. This move is not only a professional milestone for me; it’s a testament to the firm’s forward-thinking approach and commitment to doing things differently.”

Welsh bakery goes ‘down under’

Following Jones Village Bakery’s investment in a new £2 million pancake production line last year, which created 20 new jobs, it has now secured an exciting contract to supply pancakes to Australia. The pancake deal with a major Australian wholesale and distribution firm will hopefully be the start of other products being sold there too. This new deal to supply Australian outlets will see a move to seven-days-a-week production and a further 20 jobs at its Wrexham factory.

The initial agreement is to supply three types of American-style pancakes, buttermilk, blueberry and lemon flavours. These will be frozen by specialist company Norish, located less than 500 yards away on Wrexham Industrial Estate, before being shipped to the other side of the world. It’s a 42-day voyage and the fact that the pancakes are frozen gives them a 12-month shelf life.

With growing markets in France and Germany, exports are an essential ingredient in the company’s growing success, with overseas sales already topping £5 million and forecast to double over the next 12 months.

Are you Native?

From the filmmakers behind BBC and ITV documentaries, comes a stunning new wildlife short film that will take you on an inspiring journey across Britain's coasts, woodlands, grasslands and wetlands.

Native – a brand new immersive experience at Chester Zoo – opened in January and runs until the end of the summer. This breathtaking 360° immersive experience showcases some of the most iconic species in the British Isles. Visitors will also have the chance to discover the UK's most iconic native species in its gallery of giant screens and across its interactive floor.

New ‘Best of Chester’ map launched

Over 40,000 copies of the updated ‘Best of Chester’ map will be printed and distributed throughout 2024, providing details of the ‘best stuff in the city’ all in one place. The map also includes QR codes to the Chester What’s On Guide and the Chester Offers Guide.

The digital version is available here: wlgt.co.uk/the-best-of-chester-map

Pedal power: Chester Cycling Campaign Volunteers Recognised

Local volunteers at Chester Cycling Campaign have had their efforts recognised twice recently when they were awarded runner-up in Cycling UK’s ‘Most Inspiring Group Awards 2023’ and received a ‘Certificate of Appreciation’ from Sustrans. Campaign members work to actively promote cycling as the best transport mode choice for Cestrians for their urban journeys, including commuting and shopping, and recreation.

The group has been successful as a result of its wide range of initiatives, its ceaseless efforts to improve conditions for local cyclists, and its skilful use of a wide range of outreach methods and activities. These include playing a key role in Chester’s first Active Travel Festival last June, providing a detailed Cycle Parking Guide, providing free cycle maintenance classes and offering help and guidance to businesses wanting to promote cycling amongst their staff.

Last year members of the group attended a number of events for local employees, where they were able to give advice on safer cycling routes to work, the government’s ‘tax free bikes for work scheme’ and the Chester Cycle Buddies scheme, which matches up experienced cyclists with those who feel they need a bit of help to get started with cycling.

As well as individual and family memberships, the Campaign offers Corporate Membership. This is for bodies such as parish councils, businesses and charities who wish to align themselves with the aims of the Chester Cycling Campaign and who may wish to make use of its knowledge and expertise in the area of sustainable travel.

Chester Zoo awarded at BIAZA event

Following a vote by Members of Parliament and peers, Chester Zoo was pleased to be recognised as ‘Runners Up’ for BIAZA’s Great British Wildlife Restoration award for its work on its Nature Recovery Corridor project.

BIAZA is the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the professional body representing the best zoos and aquariums in Britain and Ireland. It has over 100 zoo and aquarium members, who pride themselves on their excellent animal welfare, education and conservation work.

The event took place at ‘Speakers House’ in Parliament in January, and brought together Members of Parliament, environmentalists and representatives from across the sector, to celebrate the importance of zoos and aquariums.

The team was incredibly proud of this recognition and everything that this project’s achieved so far, including engaging communities across Chester to connect with and restore native wildlife. The next phase will see an area over half the size of Edinburgh be rewilded. With recent reports showing the perilous state of wildlife in the UK, projects like this show that we can reverse this biodiversity crisis if people work together.

One year on – the power of collaboration

Last year Chester Great and Small (GAS) launched its initiative at the Storyhouse in Chester. It was set up by a group of like-minded representatives from all sectors working, living, learning and playing in the city. Its aim was simple: it wanted to bring together experience, skills and reasoned opinions to help Chester to fulfil its potential. 12 months on, the Chester GAS ambassadors are back at Storyhouse on Thursday 28 March (5-7 pm) to update guests on what they have achieved so far.

There will be the opportunity to listen to inspirational speakers, as well as to hear an update on the One City Plan 2.0, including GAS collaborative projects. The team is also keen to hear your thoughts and feedback during the panel discussion, which will be followed by an interactive Q&A.

Wrexham Council welcomes backing for £80m investment zone

Wrexham Council has welcomed news that the Welsh Government is backing calls to create a new business investment zone that could help supercharge the North East Wales economy. Earlier this year, the UK Government announced it would create 12 new investment zones, with public and private sector partners keen to see one of the zones located in Wrexham and Flintshire.

Each Investment Zone receives £80 million in funding to be used over five years, with innovation, infrastructure and skills and training projects in the sectors being targeted.

The Wyldewoods, Chester celebrates reaching for the sky

Retirement Villages Group and principal contractor Elliott Group came together with local friends and dignitaries to celebrate the first building at The Wyldewoods, a new integrated retirement community in Boughton Heath, Chester, reaching its highest point.

Guests walked up to the rooftop to mark the occasion by signing some of the roof tiles which will be fitted on the roof for the lifespan of the building. The moment was a poignant way to mark the completion of the structure of the first building and to officially name the development ‘The Wyldewoods’ – in homage to its history as a garden centre, set amid mature trees, and with future plans for beautifullylandscaped grounds.

The new community – being built on the disused former Beechmoor Garden Centre on Whitchurch Road – will feature 155 apartments across six villas, alongside a range of amenities including a restaurant, café and wellness area, which will be open to people from the surrounding area as well as to residents.

30 local operatives and six local apprentices are currently employed on site at The Wyldewoods with 48 local operatives having been employed to date. Set to open in late 2024, the new community will create more than 300 jobs through the construction process and deliver a £39 million boost to the local economy. It will also increase spending in the local area by £1.5 million every year and create 30 fulltime jobs.

Guests on site heard how the community will become an exemplar of sustainability, as a whole of life net zero carbon development. This will be achieved through high performance construction materials, efficient heating and hot water generation, via air source heat pump technology, on site renewable energy generation and offsetting carbon emissions, ensuring the buildings achieve net zero carbon emissions when in use. A sustainable transport hub will provide cycle hire and electric vehicle charging points.

Seat Unique partners with Chester Racecourse

Responding to demand, Seat Unique has teamed up with the world's oldest racecourse, exclusively powering its premium ticketing and hospitality offering. Seat Unique, the leading provider of premium tickets and experiences for live music, sports and cultural events, has entered into an exclusive partnership with Chester Racecourse through a multi-year agreement.

Through the partnership, the online hospitality access at Chester Racecourse is set to increase by 300%, meaning a greater number of racegoers will be able to enjoy race days from the best vantage points. Seat Unique has streamlined the process for guests seeking hospitality at Chester Racecourse. Using its user-friendly and secure platform, racegoers have access to eight exclusive hospitality packages and premium facilities like PARADE, 1539 Restaurant & Bar, The White Horse, Private Boxes and the Final Furlong.

MODA PR and East to West Collective announce global reach with agency partnership

MODA PR, a UK-based brand and entertainment PR agency and US bicoastal public relations and marketing agency East to West Collective, have joined forces to service international brand and talent clients that need visibility in both overseas markets. Based in Chester, MODA PR has a track record of working with names across the entire entertainment spectrum, from creating positive partnerships and supporting talent’s commercial opportunities with top-tier PR support to building meaningful and impactful personal profiles.

East to West Collective has orchestrated myriad successful Emmy, Oscar, Grammy and Tony campaigns, launched New York Times bestselling authors, and currently overseas strategic PR for brands, companies, actors, musicians, comedians and influencers. The strategic partnership will enable both agencies to broaden their service offerings to new and existing clients on a transatlantic level, backed by East to West Collective’s existing teams in Los Angeles and New York and MODA PR’s presence across the UK. The firms will continue to operate separately under their respective ownerships.

Ashley Rudd, Director of MODA PR, says: “The plan for the agency was to always grow, launch overseas and expand into a global offering. Since starting MODA PR, Jen and I have felt incredibly passionate about doing good work with good people, so partnering with a likeminded agency such as East to West Collective and Elizabeth makes for a multifaceted approach for our entertainment and lifestyle divisions.”

Fan-favourites return and new exhibits launch at Wrexham’s Xplore!

Five extra interactive displays have burst onto the scene at Wrexham’s Xplore! Science Discovery Centre UK, offering a mixture of never-before-seen activities, and one reminiscent of when the charity was first established 20 years ago. After consultations with the community and visitors, the tourist attraction has welcomed the well-loved Plasma Globe to its site for the first time, since it rebranded and relocated to Henblas Street in the city centre. In addition, staff have debuted its Hydrogen Rocket, a sustainably focused exhibit where a rocket is launched to the ceiling through electrolysis, demonstrating how aerospace technologies have advanced beyond fossil fuels.

Xplore!’s projects officer Dawn Pavey said: “We love hearing from the public and learning what they would like to see and we hope by refreshing what’s on offer they will continue to have distinct experiences each and every visit.”

The temporary installations have been made possible through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and will be at the science discovery centre for a four-month period.

In addition to the Plasma Globe and Hydrogen Rocket, the new activities include:

• Jacob’s Ladder, which showcases how lightning beams are created.

• Light Table, allowing visitors to experiment with optics behave in different environments.

• Soap Bubble Ring, where individuals can stand inside life-size bubble formations.

Xplore! visitors can experience more than 80 interactive exhibits and attend live shows as part of general admission.

Pictured L-R: Elizabeth Much, CEO of East to West Collective Jennifer Hodgson & Ashley Rudd, Directors of MODA PR

West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce

announce new CEO

West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce is delighted to announce Sarah Bailey as its new Chief Executive Officer. Sarah will be leading the Chamber, which represents businesses of all sectors and sizes across the region, and those located nationally and internationally.

Sarah joins the Chamber after 17 years at NatWest, where she has supported thousands of businesses through her roles, most recently as Director of Business Banking. Sarah will be a familiar face to many Chamber members having been an active member for over 10 years and having been a previous Board Member.

On her appointment as Chief Executive Officer, Sarah said: “Having been an avid supporter of the Chamber throughout my time as a member and Board Director, I am looking forward to getting started in this role, building on my existing relationships with members and engaging with key stakeholders across the region.”

New Managing Director appointed at Hydro Wrexham

Wrexham native Barry Salisbury has been appointed Managing Director for Hydro’s aluminium recycling plant in Wrexham, UK. Barry started in his position in January and moves from his role as Operations Manager at the Wrexham recycling plant. He succeeds Wayne Clifton, also from Wrexham, who was recently promoted to Head of Recycling Europe in Hydro. Barry has a first-class bachelor’s degree with honours in Mechatronic Engineering from the University of Manchester and joined Hydro Wrexham as Maintenance Manager in 2013.

Whilst the safety of each employee at the plant is his first priority, fostering a healthy work culture is just as important for Barry: “I am very excited and proud to take on the position as Managing Director for Hydro Wrexham. My most important task is to continue our good safety record, going six and a half years accident-free, an achievement made possible thanks to our highly-skilled and dedicated team. Putting safety first enables us to have the culture needed to provide a high-quality product.”

During his time with the company, Barry has gained broad experience in all aspects of the plant, including planning, materials optimisation, logistics and production, culminating in his most recent position as Operations Manager prior to this promotion.

Hydro Wrexham is part of the global aluminium company Hydro and produces recycled aluminium based on post-consumer and industrial aluminium scrap. In total, the plant produces 70,000 tonnes per year for large UK and European industries, such as building and construction. These industries need access to responsibly produced materials with a low-carbon footprint, to build the infrastructure needed for the green transition.

DragonBet to sponsor Premier Hurdle Day and several races at Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse

Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse is excited to announce DragonBet, the bookmaker of Wales, as a new sponsor for 2024. The family-run business born from the betting ring, will take up title sponsorship of Premier Hurdle Day in March, in addition to sponsoring several races at North Wales’s only racecourse.

Owned by brothers James and David Lovell, DragonBet is the go-to online betting platform for Welsh sports enthusiasts, offering more coverage and markets on Welsh sport than anyone else. DragonBet can be found at many betting rings around the UK. Horse racing has always been firmly embedded in the business, which even saw the legendary Red Rum attend the opening of one of its betting offices, when the business was known as John Lovell Racing.

David Lovell, Chief Executive Officer of DragonBet, said: “DragonBet is proud to be partnering with Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse. With deep roots in the sport, horse racing is something we’re very passionate about. We’re excited to be sponsoring a famous Welsh racecourse with such deep heritage in the sport. We feel it’s a great fit for the brand and are looking forward to working together for many years to come.”

Patrick Chesters, General Manager at Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse, said:

“We’re delighted to welcome DragonBet as a new sponsor at Bangor-on-Dee. As an independent family-run business that proudly supports and promotes sport in Wales, this is a sponsorship with exciting opportunities for both parties. We’re really looking forward to seeing this relationship develop, especially with DragonBet having such a close association to horseracing.”

Online criminals who prey on businesses will be focus of tech summit at Chester Zoo

Chester Zoo will play host to a summit aiming to help businesses learn new skills on how to deal with predatory cyberattacks. Soaring numbers of companies are now being targeted by online criminals, with cybercrime costing the economy £27 billion a year.

Now, in a bid to try and help businesses in the region, the Connectus Group, which provides industry-leading solutions in this area, will be hosting an event at the Atrium in Chester Zoo on Thursday 7 March.

Roy Shelton, the CEO of the Connectus Group, said: “Cybercrime is growing at an alarming rate and no company, regardless of its size or sector, is safe from a cyberattack. All companies store, access and are dependent on information – be it customer details, staff data, payroll logs, financial accounts, sensitive design information or matters relating to intellectual property.

“Without it, companies cease to trade, and not handling it properly leaves them open to litigation claims from customers, supply chain partners, their staff and others.

“Last month, the government issued new guidelines to help directors and business leaders boost their cyber resilience. It urged firms to consider cyberthreats as a critical business risk, just as they would with financial or legal challenges. But, sadly, many businesses are still ill-prepared.”

Taste Cheshire announces stellar celebrity chef

line up for 2024 festival

The renowned Taste Cheshire Food and Drink Festival is gearing up for another year of culinary delights from Saturday 30 March to Monday 1 April, and this time, they’re pulling out all the stops with a star-studded lineup of celebrity chefs.

Get ready to be tantalised by the culinary creations of Miguel Barclay, Paul Rankin and Simon Rimmer, who join a host of talented local chefs showcasing the best of Cheshire’s food and drink scene.

Wrexham event company receives £500,000 grant from UK Shared Prosperity Fund

Award-winning Fair Event Management Ltd (Fair Event) is thrilled to announce its recent success in securing a £500,000 grant from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, with support from Wrexham County Borough Council. This substantial grant will propel the company's mission to enhance community-focused events and bolster small business development within the region.

Established in March 2020, Fair Event initially faced challenges due to the pandemic. However, the company’s dedication and resilience shone through, highlighted by the tremendous success of the inaugural Wrexham Feast in 2021. Over the past three years, the management company has experienced rapid growth, recently expanding its team with the addition of two permanent team members. The company is also proud to unveil its new office space, located in the previous Wrexham Enterprise Hub building, further solidifying its commitment to the city centre.

Tell us your business news. Deadline for our Jun/Jul/Aug 2024 issue is: 1 May 2024 please email: clara@ezpublishing.co.uk

Fair Event’s portfolio of community events includes popular diary dates such as the Wrexham Artisan Market, Wrexham Feast, Chirk Carnival, WrexSands and Wrexham Christmas Market & Winter Festival. Building upon this success, the company is excited to introduce some new additions to Wrexham’s 2024 event calendar, including the Wrexham Night Market and Proms in the Park, along with an extension on the running dates for the established Wrexham Christmas Market & Winter Festival, which is now set to run over two weekends in December.

The £500,000 grant will significantly bolster Fair Event’s efforts to support local businesses and promote economic growth within Wrexham County. By sponsoring trade spaces for small businesses at events and offering affordable pitch fees, the company plays a vital role in fostering entrepreneurship and levelling up start-up ventures through their events across the county. The funding will also facilitate the provision of essential event infrastructure to the area, including fencing, track matting, staging and power distribution and generators. This investment will not only enhance the quality of events offered within the area, but also contribute to Wrexham Council's sustainability goals, by reducing the carbon footprint of largescale gatherings by reducing transport needs. The grant will support a comprehensive training programme for staff, equipping them with essential skills such as HGV licenses, event rigging skills and plant operation expertise. By investing in employee development, Fair Event aims to deliver exceptional service while fostering a skilled workforce for the future.

Fair Event Management's commitment to community engagement and small business support is well noted, with over 285 businesses supported at events to date and further exemplified by the upcoming Wrexham Artisan Market, which will showcase over 70 independent businesses on 30th March 2024. This event epitomises the company’s dedication to promoting local talent and providing a platform for entrepreneurial success.

With the support of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Wrexham County Borough Council, Fair Event Management Ltd is poised to impact the local economy and cultural landscape significantly. By investing in community events, supporting small businesses, and promoting sustainability, the company is paving the way for a brighter future for Wrexham and its residents.

“Today, Chester Castle has a number of owners, including the Crown Estate and English Heritage. The Crown owns Napier House and Calvin House, while English Heritage has guardianship of much of the Castle”

built to last A legacy

English Heritage cares for and curates over 400 historic buildings, monuments and sites across the UK – from world-famous prehistoric sites to grand medieval castles, from Roman forts on the edges of the empire to a Cold War bunker. Through these sites, many of which are free-to-enter, the organisation aims to bring the story of England to life for over 10 million people each year.

At the start of this year, we met with Ed McGregor, English Heritage’s free sites partnership manager West, and Ginny Slade, the team’s territories volunteer manager to find out more about one particular site. Chester Castle is perhaps one of Chester’s best kept secrets. Hiding in plain sight, the Castle was founded by William the Conqueror in 1070 and became the administrative centre of the earldom of Chester.

A brief history

The 12th-century Agricola Tower was the first stone gateway to Chester Castle, which had been founded by William the Conqueror in the southwest part of the city. On the first floor is the chapel of St Mary de Castro –which can still be used today – and which contains some exceptionally fine wall paintings from about 1240. By climbing the nearby stairs to the wallwalk, you can appreciate the Castle’s position within the city. Today, the Castle has a number of owners, including the Crown Estate and English Heritage. The Crown owns Napier House and Calvin House, while English

Heritage has guardianship of much of the Castle, including its Agricola Tower, the guard house and inner bailey.

Lowering the (hypothetical) drawbridge

Ed explains: “The Castle was open to the public until the mid-1990s, but then it closed when the military left the site. It remained shut, apart from some guided tours by the Guild of Chester, until January 2021. While there were many negatives to the enforced lockdowns of Covid, one of the positive

things it did do for us, was to give us an understanding – and make us appreciate – what was on our doorsteps. People began to ask us why the Castle was closed, so we decided to open the Agricola Tower and test how engaged the local community was.”

Ginny added: “As it turns out, the local community was very engaged. In June 2021, in conjunction with the Chester Heritage Festival, we opened the tower for two days. Even under the Covid restrictions that were in place at the time, we had over 700 visitors. This showed us that there was a real appetite for the Castle to be open as a visitor attraction and building on that initial weekend, we decided to open for event weekends. One of our volunteers was a reenactor, which proved very beneficial, as although we had the fabric of the building, we had nothing that visually described the history of Chester Castle.”

Since the Castle reopened its doors in June 2021 it has opened every weekend, 368 hours in total, and in that time it has received over 18,000 visitors.

“Hiding in plain sight, the Castle was founded by William the Conqueror in 1070 and became the administrative centre of the earldom of Chester”

A history of volunteering

The Castle relies heavily on an army of volunteers. Currently there are 120 volunteers on the books – with volunteers from other local English Heritage sites, such as nearby Beeston Castle, lending their expertise at Chester Castle when needed.

Volunteers run the tours, but they also help with lots of other essential jobs on site, such as the cleaning and conserving of the collection. Ed said: “We are also heavily reliant on developing strong partnerships locally. We have had a lot of support from many local organisations, including Chester Blue Badge guides, who have been invaluable, and the local council.

“Heritage skills are incredibly important to Chester Castle and as such we have been working closely with experts from Chester Cathedral, with their incredible stone masonry knowledge. Chester Regimental Museum is another example of the benefits of collaboration. The museum is on the same site, so we work closely with them to provide visitors to both locations a combined – and improved – experience. The Castle also has strong links with the Grosvenor Museum, which holds and displays a collection of articles found at the Castle.”

From the past to the future

Looking forward to the site’s reopening for the season in April, Ed described the improvements the team want to make at the Castle: “We would like to improve the access to the tower to be able to take small groups up there. The view alone is worth the climb. We also want to see if we can provide access to the Castle straight off of the Walls, as this should encourage many more visitors through the doors.”

Ginny is also keen to improve the facilities for the volunteers: “We wouldn’t be able to open our doors without the volunteers’ support, so we want to make sure they feel valued and realise how much we appreciate what they do. As part of this, we are looking to improve the volunteers’ mess facilities. It’s just small things like replacing the flooring and the lighting, and making sure there is somewhere comfortable for them to take a break.”

Ginny concluded: “We are thrilled at the reception Chester Castle reopening

“We wouldn’t be able to open our doors without the volunteers’ support, so we want to make sure they feel valued and realise how much we appreciate what they do”

has had. We want to keep building on this initial success. Although we have some amazing support in place already, as a charity we are always keen to speak to businesses, to see how we can work with them – or individuals if they are looking to volunteer their time.”

Ed added: “We’re here, we are open. Come and see for yourself what we are all about.”

Chester Castle Events 2024

Chester Castle will be open every weekend from 1 April through to 31 October, from 11am to 2pm. On open days, entry is via the law courts car park. The Castle open days are run by volunteers, who will be in the car park to meet you.

The Castle also opened its doors for a free exclusive Castle Tour on 19 and 20 February, where visitors were able to learn about the Castle’s fascinating

900-year history. There are a number of other special events planned throughout the year, including:

• 27-28 April: First World War

• 11-12 May: Medieval

• 22-23 June: Multi Period

• 14-15 Sept: Civil War

• 29-31 Oct: Torch Light Tour

• 30 Nov: Christmas at the Castle

Opening will be dependent on volunteer availability, so there may be instances where it has to close. It may be possible to access the Castle outside of these days for group visits.

Please contact FSWEnquiries@englishheritage.org.uk

“By

leaving the tower and climbing the stairs onto the walls, you can appreciate the location of the Castle within the city. Below and to the left is the Old Dee Bridge, the traditional route into North Wales, and around to the right is the Roodee, the silted-up port area of Chester now home to the racecourse”

Chester Castle: guarding the city Chester Castle lies in the southwest part of the walled city. In the Middle Ages, it consisted of an outer bailey – remodelled at the beginning of the 19th century –and an inner bailey. All the remaining medieval parts lie in what was formerly the inner bailey, reached through an archway at the far right-hand corner of the parade ground.

In the inner bailey, the imposing building in front of you is Napier House, built in 1830 as an armoury and barracks. On the left is the guardroom, housing a display on the history of the Castle. Behind it stands the 12th-century Agricola Tower, the original gateway to the Castle. The blocked passage arch is still visible. On its first floor is the chapel of St Mary de Castro, which contains the remains of some highquality wall paintings dating from around 1240. The heavy, copperplated door dates from the early19th century, when the chapel was used as a gunpowder store.

By leaving the tower and climbing the stairs onto the walls, you can appreciate the location of the Castle within the city. Below and to the left is the Old Dee Bridge, the traditional route into North Wales, and around to the right is the Roodee, the silted-up port area of Chester now home to the racecourse. Behind Napier House is a gun platform, built for defence in 1745 in response to the Jacobite rising of Bonnie Prince Charlie –you can clearly see the steps leading down to the sally port. If you continue to the top of the ramp that leads back down into the courtyard of the inner bailey, this raised area incorporates the Norman ‘motte’ or mound of the original Castle (this is best viewed from outside the Castle). On the left, on the site of the original keep, stands the square medieval Flag Tower. The white-painted building beside it is the Frobisher’s or Furbisher’s House, named after the site’s armourer, the officer charged with overseeing the storage of weapons at the Castle.

of glass A heart

Over 35 years ago, E&M Glass was opened by Ed and Margaret Burke on the Welsh-Cheshire border. In the last six years Amelia and Charlie – Ed and Margaret’s eldest son and his wife – have joined the glass-blowing studio in Sarn, and the family business continues to develop and evolve. Over the years, the business has changed considerably from its origins. Through trade shows in America, Ed and Margaret started working with companies like Barneys of New York and Four Seasons Hotels.

Today, post-Covid, the focus is very different. While still carrying out live demonstrations across the UK, the studio has moved towards larger commissioned pieces and collaborations with fine art galleries. Amelia explained: “Prior to Covid, we were spending so much time on the road, at country fairs and art shows, up and down the country. In 2019, we attended 35 shows and were spending more time out than we were concentrating on our art.”

Charlie added: “As for many people, Covid really made us stop and think about what we were doing and why. For the first time ever, at the start of lockdown, we turned off the furnace and it stayed off for three months.”

Showcasing glass

Both Amelia and Charlie are entrenched in the world of glass, as they attend exhibitions across the UK and Europe. Charlie is currently experimenting with larger blown glass pieces, with the latest one due to be submitted for The British Glass Biennale being held in Stourbridge in March.

Did you know…?

This is the foremost juried exhibition of excellence in contemporary glass by artists, designers and craftspeople working in the UK, along with British artist working abroad. It is the flagship exhibition within the International Festival of Glass. The emphasis of the exhibition is on new work, which demonstrates the highest level of excellence in design, creative imagination and technical skill. Amelia also has a piece being judged at the show in Stourbridge – using Murrine techniques she has created a stunning piece which is a visual interpretation of type one diabetes.

Art and health

Amelia and Charlie’s 15-year-old daughter was diagnosed with type one diabetes at a young age. An allconsuming illness, the family has had to adapt to its requirements and challenges. As part of this journey, Amelia has begun to explore the disease within her art. With grants from the Arts Council Wales and in collaboration with various research universities, including Oxford, Cardiff and Exeter, Amelia is

• … the furnace in the studio works at 1150 degrees – hotter than a volcano (approximately 1000 degrees)

• ... to avoid damaging the ceramic crucible, the furnace needs to be heated and cooled slowly which takes three to four days

• … the hotter the glass, the more malleable it is, but also the more volatile – it’s all about juggling the heat!

recreating the Islet cells in the pancreas as patterns within the glass – with a view to making diabetes beautiful. She is also working with other families with type one diabetes, by running workshops.

The future is clear

With only six or seven similar-sized studios – of which only two or three of them are second-generation family-run studios across the UK – E&M Glass represent something special in the glass blowing world. With Margaret, Charlie and Amelia all working together, the different collaborations between the three artists brings forward very different styles and creations.

With their daughter also interested in joining the family business, that might soon become the third generation of Burke glass blowers.

E&M Glass

The Studio, Sarn, Malpas SY14 7LN 01948 770 464 emglass.co.uk

“For the first time ever, at the start of lockdown, we turned off the furnace and it stayed off for three months”

Networking VOX

The first VOX networking of 2024 was another sellout event, which took place at the new Hickory’s restaurant in Wrexham on Thursday 18 January.

Attendees were wowed by the incredible woodcarving skills of award-winning Simon O’Rourke, and equally impressed with the food and facilities at the newly-refurbished and opened addition to the Hickory’s brand.

Over 40 people braved the inclement winter weather to join the event and there was a great buzz, with lots of interesting conversations around

Future dates

Thursday 21 March 2024

We are pleased to announce that we will be holding our March networking event at the ōH Chester Design Foundation on 22 Bridge Street. Our speaker in March is the extremely talented Maja Kenney. Maja has successfully turned her passion into her business and now runs Maja’s Motorcycle Adventures. Come along and join us to find out more about her journey.

Thursday 27 June 2024

Plans for our June networking are well underway, but watch this space for more details on the venue and speaker for our Summer session.

Book your place online at: ezpublishing.co.uk/events

Photography: ©Gavin Priest

A conversation with Jon & Sharon Roberts

Owners, Wrexham Lager

Award-winning Wrexham Lager is an internationally-recognised brand, which has grown in notoriety over the last couple of years. With a history that spans over 130 years, it is a family-run business in the heart of Wrexham and with the local community firmly in its heart.

Wrexham Lager is now owned by the Roberts family, who also own F. Jones, one of the UK’s largest independent suppliers to the fast-food industry. They still make Wrexham Lager to the original recipe. The brewery and its produce has had an interesting journey and is looking forward to an equally exciting future. We caught up with owners Jon and Sharon Roberts at their Wrexham headquarters, to talk about the popularity of this truly local brand.

Raising the bar

With the increased worldwide interest in the city of Wrexham, Wrexham Lager has seen an increase in sales too. With over 90% of the population enjoying an alcoholic drink at some point in the year, the company wants to introduce the great-tasting Wrexham Lager to the far-flung corners of the world. To do this successfully, the family recognised the need to take the business to another level nationally and globally, by appointing a new CEO.

As Jon Roberts explains: “Our new CEO, James Wright, joined the business just over four months ago. He brings with him over 25 years of experience within the drinks industry, working with such household names as Red Bull, Corona, Whitley Neill Gin and the Aber Falls.

Sharon added: “We are already seeing a difference. We wanted to take the brand to the next level, and James has just launched our new packaging. Brand ‘Wrexham’ is incredibly important at the moment and I think our new packaging reflects this groundswell of popularity.”

What’s in a number?

The brewery has a very loyal following and currently produces approximately 20,000-hectare litres annually. This is sold locally, nationally and internationally. 20,000-hectare litres equates to a whooping 36 million pints produced each year. However, with the business’s plans for growth, Wrexham Lager is looking to scale-up the brewery operation.

“Our plans will mean that we will be able to more than double the production of Wrexham Lager on site over the next 12 months,” said Sharon.

She continued, “We are proud to be Welsh and we aim to ensure that Wrexham Lager becomes the ‘Welsh lager of choice’. We have a solid fanbase across North Wales and the North West, but we are still looking to improve our penetration across the UK.”

“We are proud to be Welsh and we aim to ensure that Wrexham Lager becomes the ‘Welsh lager of choice’. We have a solid fanbase across North Wales and the North West, but we are still looking to improve our penetration across the UK”

Responsible

business

As a family-owned and run business – Wrexham Lager has 10 members of the Roberts family working within the business, including three directors – the company is not only looking at its business growth from a commercial point of view. Its position and role within the community is also very important to it too. “Our workforce is made up from largely local people, who have the right mindset. We can provide the training, to ensure that we have the skillset we need from a brewing and technical point of view”, said Jon. From an environmental perspective, the team at Wrexham Lager is firmly committed to improving its environmental credentials wherever possible.

Jon explains: “With our recent investment in our packaging, we are moving away from glass bottles and more towards cans, which is better for the environment. We also try to be as energy-efficient as possible when we are planning our logistics. Within the actual brewing process, we take measures to ensure that we are as environmentally-friendly as possible

too. The spent grain goes into animal feed or is used to create secondary energy, via our onsite biomass plant. We recycle our heat through a heat exchange, which maximises the efficiency of the overall manufacturing process. Every stage is thought through and where energy efficiency measures can be introduced, we do.”

Community recognition

Sharon went on to explain the work that the company does within the community too: “F. Jones and Wrexham Lager are working collaboratively on a community recognition scheme, the F. Jones Initiative. We award two individuals, one business and one charitable organisation, each month. The project has been set up to give something back in a creative way, with a specific focus on Wrexham,

its people, communities and local independent businesses like us.

“We then hold an awards evening at Maesgwyn, with the next one taking place in April this year. This gives us the opportunity to celebrate the great things that have been going on locally throughout the year. It is also an opportunity to raise money for some local charities.” Jon added, “We support a number of local charities, including men’s mental health charities, Pwrpas and Dragon Chat. We are also working with Careers Wales and Coleg Cambria, to support the next generation of businesspeople and brewers coming through.”

What’s brewing next?

Jon concluded: “Our history is important to us and we are proud to still be using the same recipe today to make our Wrexham Lager, ensuring consistency and quality in every batch we produce. However, we are taking our historic brand and developing an exciting and modern PR strategy, which is designed to put Wrexham Lager –and Wrexham city – on the map!”

A pint-sized history of Wrexham Lager

In 1882, two German Immigrants, Ivan Levinstein and Otto Isler, decided to brew lager in the UK. They deployed the traditional Bavarian method, using naturally cold and stable temperatures in cellars and caves to ferment the beer. A site in Wrexham was chosen, but the ice banks were unable to cool the lager enough. A chance meeting with a local German-born Industrialist, Robert Graesser, solved this issue and his mechanical refrigeration was introduced. As the dark lager sales rose, the brewers had the confidence to create their first pale lager and so Wrexham Lager was born!

Initially, due to fierce market competition on quality and price, the brewery faced liquidation, so Robert Graesser took full ownership of the company. He concentrated on the export market, selling to merchants with global access throughout the

British Empire. Wrexham Lager was also the only lager available on the maiden (and last) voyage of the White Star Line’s Titanic.

Wrexham Lager enjoyed domestic success until the war years. Austerity measures faced by the drinking classes and the impact of two world wars saw Wrexham Lager again face financial ruin. It was bought by Ind Coope & Allsopp in 1949 and, through a series of mergers, eventually became the property of Carlsberg-Tetley (now Carlsberg UK). But Wrexham Lager became overshadowed by other brands, to the point that commercial production at its Wrexham site stopped in 2000 and production in the UK ceased entirely in 2002.

The original brewery was demolished and a retail park was built where it stood.

Martin Jones MP for South Clwyd, a retired civil servant and former microbiologist at Wrexham Lager, negotiated with Carlsberg for the ownership of Wrexham Lager Brewing Company and its subsidiary brands. He managed to procure the rights for the modest sum of one pound and set about rebuilding the brewery and brand. In 2011, the Roberts family were interested in investing in a microbrewery as a new venture and were considering brewing ale until they came across Martin in the local pub. Soon a deal was struck and the Wrexham Lager brand was revived once again. With a new premises in the centre of Wrexham, Ian Dale, the former head brewer of Wrexham Lager back at the helm of brewing operations, and with a state-of-the-art German brewhouse at Ian’s disposal, the company was ready for the next chapter in its amazing story.

Earn your marketing

stripes

By MAGGIE AUSTEN

Still a place for print

In this digital age, it is quite easy to forget that until comparatively recently, if you wanted to communicate with your customers, your first port of call would have been print media. To spread your message wider, you might have considered broadcast media. Of course, radio and TV are still popular methods of spreading the word about your brand, although they have transformed themselves with diversification into the online world. So, does print media still have a place?

In a word, yes. Perhaps surprisingly, many clients need very little convincing that print still has a place in the marketing mix. It seems as though print may be having a resurgence in the same way that vinyl records and other physical media have – paper has become cool again!

Despite digital media’s extraordinary accessibility and convenience, paper has never actually gone away. We are still surrounded by newspapers, magazines, posters, flyers and of course, books. What’s the secret of paper’s enduring appeal?

New chapters

Personally, I’ve never been surprised that ‘proper’ books are still so popular. E-books are great and I would not want to be without my Kindle. However, I have noticed that I never remember the name of an e-book, even if I am really enjoying reading it. Is this because I actually give it less attention than I would if it were a paper book? After all, it does not have an eye-catching cover or spine, with an intriguing illustration or an engaging blurb. I certainly enjoy the feel of a book in my hands, that I can touch and hold whenever I want.

Paper provides a sensory experience that digital still cannot come close to. This tangible quality is certainly a large part of the reason that print media remains popular. I am sure when this magazine you are reading now was in development, a lot of thought went into the grade and weight of the paper for the cover, as well as for the pages themselves. People certainly seem to enjoy picking it up and leafing through it, and sniffing it seems quite popular too!

We certainly receive much less post and printed material than we used to. The cascade of ‘junk’ mail through the letter box is, by and large, a thing of the past. It follows then that we are likely to pay more attention to an engaging printed communication when we do receive one. It has the appeal of comparative rarity.

A greater impact

Print really does get attention. Professionally designed adverts and pieces of sales literature capture attention, leave a lasting impression and greatly assist brand recall. They tend to get shared and reread between friends, family and colleagues too.

“It seems as though print may be having a resurgence in the same way that vinyl records and other physical media have –paper has become cool again!”

Grabbing your phone to look something up is quick and easy, but once you have found what you were looking for, you quickly move on, and more than likely get pulled down a distracting internet rabbit hole. With a magazine or printed newsletter, you are far more likely to read the whole article, or flick through the rest of the publication too.

For our physical, as well as our mental, health, we should definitely have less exposure to our phones and laptops, with their impact on our eyes and interference in our melatonin levels and circadian rhythms. Many of us are actively trying to disengage from digital

media for these reasons. I recently heard one podcaster describe himself as feeling like a minor employee in his own life ‘company’ with his phone being his boss and calling all the shots!

If this is an increasingly widespread feeling, with more of us wanting to unplug sometimes from the digital world, then print still has an important function to fulfil and can represent a welcome respite from the fast-paced and distracting online environment.

Obviously online content marketing is well established and has myriad benefits, but none of us should

overlook the enduring power of print. Online content marketing is here to stay, and I would not be without it.

We should not play down the importance of print media in our marketing mix and its really timeless appeal.

Maggie Austen Account Director Zebra Marketing and Communications maggie@zebra-comms.co.uk

Courageous

leadership is the only way forward

Earlier this month 75+ business leaders, educationalists, students, activists and charity workers came together to take part in a conference with a difference. Hosted at the Chester headquarters of Sykes Holiday Cottages, the Business for Good Festival focused on unlearning and courageous leadership for a better future.

The event helped delegates to explore how business can be a positive force for good and begin to combat some of the many existential issues facing our world right now. Keynote speaker Minou Schillings led a morning that challenged mindsets, prompted new ideas and encouraged mindful reflection, before delegates were treated to a stirring performance from the children of AmaSing, who made a firm plea to help shape their futures for the better.

Delegates also took part in a series of workshops on futureproofing their business, climate justice, and impactdriven entrepreneurship, and they were challenged to consider how they could amplify their impact as individuals. For instance, what changes could they influence in their workplaces and through the organisations they interact with? The message was loud and clear, what we have done before isn’t working – courageous leadership is the only way to a better future.

Minou summed up what many were saying as the conference concluded “Let's say NO to events that numb your brain and kill your creativity. And say YES to Unbusinessy business events that challenge our thinking and unleash our imagination…the Business for Good Festival was an absolutely inspiring, thought-provoking, emotional and courageous hit.”

“What we have done before isn’t working –courageous leadership is the only way to a better future”

Organisers, UK for Good, are already helping organisations define their purpose and determine what they can do regarding their governance, social and environmental impact, how they can act, how they get recognised for it and how to continuously improve.

Donna Okell, UK for Good Co-CEO, says “We are working with organisations who want to create positive impact. Leaders recognise that they need to reimagine business, courageously unpicking how things used to work and finding a new path. Seeing this change up close is hugely motivating and gives me hope for our future.”

Run differently from the outset, the proceeds from the ‘not for profit’ event have been donated to Rewilding Britain and AmaSing. Cheshire-based Eco Communities provided reusable cups throughout the day and ethical delegate gifts and event support were provided by Out of the Box and AG Comms respectively.

A proportion of the event tickets were even offered free to local university students and another proportion were sold on a pay-what-you-can basis, making it fully-accessible.

For more information, visit: ukforgood.com

Safe as houses

New fire regulations in the UK: Impact on short-term lets and holiday homes

According to figures provided by the gov.uk website, the fire and rescue service attended a staggering 151,086 fires in the UK in the year ending March 2021. While there isn’t a breakdown between domestic properties and short-term lets or holiday homes, it stands to reason that short-term lets and holiday homes make up a significant portion of this figure.

In October 2023, the UK introduced new fire regulations that specifically target short-term lets and holiday homes, aiming to enhance safety standards in these types of accommodations. These regulations come as a response to growing concerns about fire safety in properties used for short stays, such as Airbnb rentals and holiday cottages. The implementation of these regulations marks a significant shift in the responsibilities of property owners and managers, impacting current

By MARTIN GRIFFITHS

regulations and necessitating compliance with stricter safety measures. Airbnb and other holiday rentals and short-term lets have become popular business ventures and revenue streams, but it’s important to be aware of what this entails.

If you own a holiday home, do you know your new responsibilities?

One of the key changes brought about by the new regulations is the requirement for property owners to conduct thorough fire risk assessments.

“Property owners must now ensure that fire detection and alarm systems are in proper working condition. These need to be regularly checked and have maintenance schedules in place”

Previously, while fire safety measures were expected, the enforcement and extent of these measures varied across different types of accommodation. With the new regulations, there is a clear mandate for property owners to:

• Assess fire risks comprehensively

• Identify potential hazards

• Implement measures to mitigate them effectively.

This includes assessing factors such as the layout of the property, the presence of fire detection and alarm systems, the availability of emergency exits and the provision of firefighting equipment. The new regulations also highlight the importance of regular maintenance and testing of fire safety equipment.

Property owners must now ensure that fire detection and alarm systems are in proper working condition. These need to be regularly checked and have maintenance schedules in place. This requirement aims to prevent instances where malfunctioning equipment could compromise the safety of guests and occupants.

Clear and accessible fire safety information

Another stipulation of the new regulations is a renewed focus on property owners providing clear and accessible fire safety information for guests, which is easily accessible on arrival and prominently displayed within the property. This information needs to include comprehensive guidance on what to do in the event of a fire, including evacuation procedures and the location of emergency exits.

Improving safety standards

The introduction of these regulations signifies a tightening of fire safety standards in short-term lets and holiday homes, bringing them more in line with those of permanent residential properties. While these measures may entail additional responsibilities for property owners and managers, they are crucial steps towards improving guests’ wellbeing and safety.

The onus is on the property owner to ensure that they comply with the new regulations and what is applicable to their individual property. This may involve investing in fire safety upgrades, conducting thorough risk assessments,

and updating documentation and procedures accordingly. The aim of the new UK regulations is to improve the safety and wellbeing of a property’s occupants and enhance the overall guest experience, by reducing the risk of fire-related incidents.

Prioritising fire safety through the implementation of stricter measures should provide a step change in improving overall safety standards in short-term lets and holiday homes. Property owners and managers play a crucial role in making this happen.

Martin Griffiths Acton Safety 01978 784302

“The aim of the new UK regulations is to improve the safety and wellbeing of a property’s occupants”

Benefits of art in business

We live in the most wonderful area, richly rewarding, with every advantage. A loose triangle, embracing Chester, Wrexham and the Wirral, forming a cultural hinterland with every variety of land and seascape, and a widely-diversified economic base, from industrial production to traditional agriculture, through to modern digi-business. In Chester, we see the entire history of Britain for two millennia. In Wrexham, we see the birth of the Industrial Age. In both we see art.

By GREGORY MACMILLAN

The reasons for making artworks a visible part of the environment are compelling. Art is healthy, uplifting and revitalising. Artworks, even in the office environment, are beneficial. Art is a portal for the human experience and can take many forms. There are ‘artistic’ versions of any type of furniture and fitting, often at comparable prices to much more ‘functional’ items. But art needs to be real and authentic, not a token gesture. There is the recurrent question of making this area into a ‘cultural hub’. There are many producers based in Chester, a lively art scene and there are many active producers based in and around Wrexham. There is certainly a wide audience base and there is affluence. There is potential energy waiting to connect. Bringing artist and audience together benefits everyone and enriches the world.

Art in business already exists, but how can we enhance this relationship? Art may be imagined as elitist, but of course this is not the case at all. Art penetrates into everyone’s lives in the form of advertising. Art has duration, advertising has immediate impact. Fine Art and Advertising are merely different ends of the same spectrum.

“Bringing artist and audience together benefits everyone and enriches the world”

Art in advertising may take any number of forms, from full-page lifestyle spreads in magazines such as VOX, to the signage on every local delivery van and small business.

Defining places

The area is home to several significant world-class businesses. All will have their advertising budgets. Those who set the brief might like to include a note to point something like this out, the virtues of their local base or origins. It does not need to be exclusively placebased or referential. It is to do with a strong identity, part of a company’s provenance and place. It can be subtle, designers often being very clever that way. Here is the opportunity to spend some of your advertising budget on the work of a promising young illustrator, whose work might become as iconic as the Shell Oil posters, or ‘Visit Skegness’ in the 1930s. In a ‘challenging’ postmodern manner, naturally.

There’s a natural pride that humans develop in their own place. You may remember the charming old custom of road hauliers to decorate their lorries with pin-striping and flourishes and would proudly proclaim ‘Of Dunstable’, or ‘Of Whitchurch’. This was true Folk Art, as authentic as any carved Slovenian love-spoon. Every delivery van and shop sign can glow with this pride.

“Art spreads its influence subtly –we notice something out of the corner of our eye and it triggers an emotion”

The local colleges are certainly in the business of turning out promising young illustrators, all burning to make their mark and gain a toehold in the commercial market.

Regional flavours

Imagine if several prominent locallybased businesses were to launch a concerted campaign in their advertising to convey a distinctive regional flavour, by patronising and commissioning locally-based designers? This area could become recognised as a centre of excellence. Such creative interventions would go far in recreating and invigorating a distinctive local culture –not parochial, but making for a special experience. There will be many who will appreciate that uniqueness. It may develop into a brand, something which could be exported. Delighting in regional flavours and tastes – which is done so well in Europe – is relished by many and so it ought to be with art, to create a point of focus.

We could look around us and see much more of what we would like to see through choice. Art spreads its influence subtly – we notice something out of the corner of our eye and it triggers an emotion. The benefits of bringing art into the business world are to the artists, to the direct audience and to the whole community. The results would be increased sales and enhance interest and awareness of art and business, raise the profiles of the ‘cultural industries’ in this area, and increase the presence of stimulating art that enriches the environment every day.

Gregory MacMillan 07816 330873

ateliersublime@gmail.com

“The local colleges are certainly in the business of turning out promising young illustrators, all burning to make their mark”

Nurturing an entrepreneurial mindset

In today’s fast-paced economy, entrepreneurship has emerged as a cornerstone of growth, resilience and innovation. With technological advancements, changing consumer preferences and global challenges shaping the business landscape, individuals equipped with an entrepreneurial mindset are best prepared to navigate these complexities, seize opportunities and become more resilient in the process.

By SASHA KENNEY

As current statistics show, fostering entrepreneurship is not just beneficial, but also essential for driving economic development and fostering innovation. According to World Bank’s recent data, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) account for a significant portion of global economic activity, as they represent more than 50% employment worldwide and contribute over 40% of national income (GDP) in emerging economies.

In the UK alone, SMEs comprise over 99% of all private sector businesses, highlighting their pivotal role in driving economic prosperity. At the start of 2023, there were estimated 5.6 million UK private sector businesses, 26% of which had employees and 74% did not employ anyone aside from the owner(s).

Does size matter?

Here is the thing. Size doesn’t matter, the mindset does. At the heart of successful entrepreneurship lies an entrepreneurial mindset—a unique combination of traits, skills and attitudes that enable individuals to identify opportunities, overcome challenges and adapt to changing circumstances. Characteristics such as creativity, resilience, adaptability and a willingness to take calculated risks are hallmarks of an entrepreneurial mindset, essential for personal growth.

“Characteristics such as creativity, resilience, adaptability and a willingness to take calculated risks are hallmarks of an entrepreneurial mindset”

By cultivating entrepreneurial attitude, individuals develop a proactive approach to problem-solving and view setbacks as opportunities for learning and growth. More than that, entrepreneurship fosters a sense of autonomy and self-reliance, empowering individuals to pursue their passions, explore new opportunities and chart their own paths to success. Ultimately, embracing an entrepreneurial mindset not only fuels professional achievement, but also shapes positive personal growth by instilling confidence, ambition and a willingness to embrace change.

The importance of the right mindset Recognising the importance of nurturing this mindset, on both a personal and economic level, educational institutions like Wrexham University take a proactive approach to supporting student and graduate entrepreneurs. Through dedicated entrepreneurship programmes and courses, providing incubation spaces and resources, universities empower aspiring entrepreneurs to develop their ideas, acquire essential skills and cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset. At Wrexham University, initiatives such as the Entrepreneurship Support

“In the UK alone, SMEs comprise over 99% of all private sector businesses, highlighting their pivotal role in driving economic prosperity”

Program provides students and graduates with mentorship, funding opportunities and access to a variety of networks (such as connection to local businesses and support from Business Wales), enabling them to translate their entrepreneurial visions into reality.

Showcasing entrepreneurship

One notable event celebrating entrepreneurship at Wrexham University is the upcoming Entrepreneurship Showcase —an exciting gathering that promises to be a vibrant celebration of creativity, collaboration and innovation. This event will not only spotlight a diverse array of entrepreneurial projects from both the university and local businesses, but also serve as a catalyst for networking and collaboration among aspiring entrepreneurs, industry

experts and community stakeholders. Events like the Entrepreneurship Showcase play a crucial role in inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs, providing them with role models, mentors and real-world examples of entrepreneurial success.

By bringing together aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned professionals, the event fosters an ecosystem of collaboration, driving innovation and fuelling economic growth. Moreover, by highlighting the stories of entrepreneurs who have overcome challenges, pursued their passions and achieved their goals, these events instil confidence and motivation in aspiring entrepreneurs, encouraging them to pursue their dreams with conviction and resilience.

Entrepreneurship is more than just starting a business – it’s a way of thinking, a catalyst for personal and collective growth. Join us in cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset. Let’s seize the opportunities, celebrate achievements and empower future entrepreneurs, ensuring a bright, prosperous future for all.

To find out more about our work at the University, or about the Entrepreneurship Showcase event on Wednesday 20 March, get in touch.

Sasha Kenney Entrepreneurship Coordinator Wrexham University sasha.kenney@wrexham.ac.uk

Words of Wisdom

Welcome to our book and podcast recommendations, where you'll find a curated selection of the latest and greatest in business literature and audio storytelling.

The 9 Types of Difficult People: How to spot them and quickly improve working relationships

By NICK ROBINSON

Published by Pearson

Nick is an executive coach with over 20 years’ experience. Much of his team coaching work is about helping people to get over a rough patch, or to deal with others who seem difficult at work. His book The 9 Types of Difficult People is for anyone who has experienced a difficult person at work. As well as revealing the nine different types of difficult people, there’s a quick quiz so you can work out the different type you’re dealing with, and how to communicate with them effectively. It gives the reader insight into decoding the warning signs of each type, using stories and examples. You’ll discover practical tools and techniques for dealing with each type. You can also try short exercises to help you build the right mindset for success. It also demonstrates how you can boost workplace relationships with videos and an online quiz.

Develop Your Leadership Superpowers: 50 Key Skills You Need to Succeed as a Leader

By DIETMAR STERNAD Published by econcise

Dr Dietmar Sternad is an award-winning management professor and bestselling author with extensive experience in various leadership roles – for example, as a CEO of media companies – as well as in educating and coaching new and experienced leaders. His book offers insight into the key to impactful leadership. You can learn how to think and act like a leader, spread positive energy, become confident and resilient, communicate with impact, set the right priorities, be clear on your goals and strategies, make better decisions, build a high-performance group with great team spirit, and help your team members develop and grow. The book is illustrated throughout by Eva Kobin, a self-taught artist whose drawings and characters brings a breath of humour to otherwise serious management topics.

By SARAH ELLIS & HELEN TUPPER

Squiggly Careers is a weekly podcast that will help you take control of your career development. Hosted by Sarah Ellis and Helen Tupper, together the founders of Amazing If (amazingif.com), they cover all things workrelated – from how to manage stress and overcome your confidence gremlins, to micro-aggressions and discovering your strengths. Each episode is full of ideas, actions, hints and tips that you can put into practice straight away. Occasionally they take a break from talking to each other to interview other people who are leading the way in making work better.

Past guests include entrepreneur and philanthropist Dame Stephanie Shirley and neuroscience expert Amy Brann. The Squiggly Careers podcast has been recommended by Harvard Business Review, Stylist, Marie Claire and Management Today, and can be found at audible.co.uk.

By DERREN BROWN

If you are anxious and not sure why, then that’s completely normal – we are human! Our brains haven’t evolved to cope with the complexities of modern life. For his next trick, Derren Brown will reboot your brain, with the help of worldrenowned experts. By drawing on wisdom and insights from modern psychology to ancient philosophy, Derren’s podcast demonstrates how you can rise above your brain’s limitations and think yourself into a more fulfilling, less anxiety-ridden and happier life. Derren’s a familiar name to everyone for his TV work and best-selling books. Amongst a varied TV career, Derren has played Russian Roulette live, convinced middle-managers to commit armed robbery, led the nation in a séance, stuck viewers at home to their sofas and successfully predicted the National Lottery. He writes and narrates his audible podcast ‘Boot Camp for Life’ and also ‘Boot Camp for the Brain’.

Squiggly Careers

Derren Brown’s Boot Camp For Life

Leading the way on recycling policy

in Wales

By now, all workplaces in Wales should have received a letter from the Welsh Government informing them of a significant change to waste and recycling legislation. There have also been awareness campaigns through TV, internet and radio advertisements.

After years of consultations, policy and some resistance, from 6th April, all workplaces across Wales will be required by law to sort their recyclable materials into distinct waste streams for separate collection, under the Waste Separation Requirements (Wales) Regulations.

Streets ahead

The ambitions of the Welsh Government for recycling and the environment is streets ahead of the rest of the UK. It is already the UK-leader in domestic recycling rates (and third best in the world) and now it is turning its focus on non-domestic recycling. It is all part of Wales’ ambitions to achieve Net Zero by no later than 2050.

Whatever your feelings on climate change – and we have to accept or at least acknowledge that not everyone feels it is caused by human activity – recycling is surely seen by most as a good thing to do, for many a no-brainer, and for some an absolute necessity. It is only a small part of the action required, but an important one nonetheless.

The legislation will require the separation of:

• Paper and card

• Metals, plastics and cartons

• Glass

• Food (where there is more than 5kg per week)

The disposal of food waste to sewers is also being banned to prevent bypassing the above, along with

By ASH WASTE SERVICES

“Recycling is surely seen by most as a good thing to do”

a phased-in requirement to separate textiles and small waste electrical and electronic equipment (sWEEE), starting with any unsold products from April.

Minimising impacts

At ASH Waste Services, we recognise the need to try to minimise our impact on the environment. We already sort our own waste in line with the above requirements. We generate solar energy on our sites to feed into the national grid, have installed EV chargers at our offices, are certified Carbon Neutral and our latest bin wagons are fitted with solar panels on the roof to reduce the amount of diesel fuel used.

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) will be the enforcement body responsible for making sure that businesses, public sector organisations and charities are all abiding by these new regulations.

NRW will have the powers to issue a Fixed Monetary Penalty (FMP) of £300

per offence. For repeat offenders or a flagrant disregard for the law, they have the power and resources to initiate a Variable Monetary Penalty (VMP) where much harsher penalties will be imposed.

Counting the costs

It is also important to remember that the separation requirements relate to where the waste was produced, not its end destination. So for workplaces in Wales, even if your waste contractor is taking the waste into England, you still need to be fully compliant with the new regulations to avoid receiving a FMP or VMP.

Unless you are already sorted, we recommend that you enter into discussions with your waste contractor immediately to make sure that they will not leave your workplace at risk of enforcement. Do your due diligence to make sure that what they are offering complies with the requirements of the law, as set out at gov.wales/workplace-recycling

Finally, the Government has announced that by no later than the end of March 2025, all non-domestic settings in England must have a minimum of a mixed recycling and a food waste collection. But for now, Wales is leading the way on environmental policy, again.

For more details contact ASH Waste Services 0800 0350447 enquiries@ashwasteservices.co.uk

Make an

event of it

Corporate events come in many different shapes and sizes, from off-site board meetings, workshops and training days, through to away days, teambuilding, conference and exhibitions, fundraisers and awards nights – and that probably doesn’t cover it all! There’s so much to think about, depending on the scale of your event, and even a small or medium-sized gathering requires considerable thought and planning.

There are many reasons why you would run an event and many aspects to address to ensure its success, everything from venue to catering. We spoke with two local businesses heavily involved in events from both the planning and resourcing perspectives, to get some insight into this area.

What does it take to plan an event?

By KATIE SKELLON

There is no truer quote in the world of event management than ‘Fail to prepare, prepare to fail’. The logistics involved in planning a wedding, party or corporate event can be a minefield. That is where a professional events management company can make all the difference. As an award-winning event planner, it is my job to alleviate all the stress that comes with event management, ensuring the creation of the perfect outcome. Having recently ventured further into the corporate world, it has been a joy to collaborate with respected clients such as the founders of the WBCA and Kellogg’s.

You may be wondering how does corporate planning differ from organising weddings and what pitfalls need to be avoided along the way? Here are some important things to consider.

The vision isn’t clear

While weddings generally follow a similar format, corporate events vary significantly from company to company. Setting clear goals from the outset is crucial, as is ensuring all team members are aware of these goals and their progress. These events need a purpose beyond just planning a party. The most successful corporate events, whether internal or external, communicate a consistent brand personality or message from start to finish.

Guest feedback is also super important. Although our goal for all events is to create memorable experiences that people continue to talk about positively, the goals of corporate events are very different from those of weddings or parties.

Success can be measured in several ways: guest attendance, post-event feedback, the number of sign-ups for future sponsorships following a launch, and so on. It is essential to have methods for capturing this critical information from guests, as this will allow you to manage your Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and

Return on Investment (ROI) effectively. Nurture those relationships with your attendees, by sending follow-up emails or feedback surveys to build strong, long-term connections with your audience.

The day feels ‘overdone’

Planning a corporate event does not mean the content of the day needs to be ‘boring’. It is important to plan your event agendas in line with your audience’s expectations and preferences. Ensuring an appropriate balance of activities – such as talks, video clips and guest speakers – will keep the audience entertained and focused. Incorporating technology and interactive elements effectively is key. Since people all learn differently, maintaining a fresh and engaging approach by leveraging current technology can make the day/evening flow smoothly and remain meaningful.

People don’t know about it Event marketing is essential for creating an outstanding first impression. One of the major factors leading to an event’s downfall is improper and insufficient communication – a stark contrast to the world of weddings. Many companies fail to adequately invest in promoting their external event through appropriate marketing channels, such as email and social media, with any other attempt to create a buzz often falling on deaf ears. Prospective attendees are more likely to show interest if they perceive a risk of ‘FOMO’ – fear of missing out. Leveraging this concept with engaging promotions and captivating social media campaigns, you can spark curiosity and ultimately, exceed expectations.

The event doesn’t feel like ‘YOU’ The last thing you want is for people to leave feeling that they haven’t gained anything from the experience. Your event and company branding play a key role in making you stand out from the crowd. Use the skills of professional designers to ensure your branding is both coherent and visually appealing.

Establish a solid brand identity with professional graphics, videos, logos, promotional material and unique images that truly reflect your brand’s identity and values. Not having evidence of your day for future use means that marketing, post-event reports and other follow-up activities will be much more difficult. You’ve invested a lot into creating something exceptional – make sure to show it off!

So many details, so little time! Managing an event involves juggling multiple tasks – from keeping track of the designated budget and sourcing the correct suppliers, to finding suitable venues and overseeing event logistics, such as transportation, accommodation, registration, security and technical requirements. Organisation is key, as is keeping stakeholders informed every step of the way. Unlike weddings (which most people have some experience of attending), corporate events can often be a new venture for the organiser.

Guiding them through the process means that they feel involved without infringing upon the event’s objectives. Poor time management can lead to delays and budget overruns, and impact other aspects of the event. Additionally, changes in event details or unforeseen circumstances can arise unexpectedly. Event planners need to be adaptable and ready to implement contingency plans, to address any last-minute changes effectively.

Planning a successful corporate event requires careful attention to detail, effective communication, excellent time management and a focus on the most important aspects of the event. By avoiding these five common pitfalls, you can ensure that your event runs smoothly and achieves its objectives.

Katie Skellon Skellon Events @skellonevents 07999 534872

The art of strategic staffing

By JACK MITCHELL

In a landscape where staffing agencies have a varied reputation and often bear the weight of scepticism, outsourcing staffing to a high-quality, reliable company can profoundly benefit your business. This is especially true when it comes to staffing for events. Having a team with a proven track record of delivering excellence will ensure that your staff are a reliable option for a variety of events scenarios, sizes and venues.

The

power of flexibility

The ability to access a skilled workforce precisely when needed is a challenge in full-time employment. An outsourced staffing agency can address this issue by offering you unparalleled flexibility— providing crucial support during busy events, staff absences and unexpected surges in workload. Having the resources available, precisely when they are needed, is part of the balancing act.

Diversity drives success

By having a large team on the books, a staffing agency can tap into a broad talent pool with diverse skill sets to meet any client’s needs. This means that businesses are able to embrace new ways of thinking and problem-solving, by hiring the right people when they are needed. A staff agency will also ensure a seamless onboarding process that prioritises full training and compliance. This could mean specialising in certain sectors, such

as IT or hospitality, so staff are completely up-to-speed on the latest legislation and requirements.

Administrative excellence

One of downsides of internal recruitment is all the associated administrative tasks. A competent agency will take care of the nitty-gritty administrative tasks, from managing holiday pay, payslips and pension contributions, through to handling National Insurance contributions. This means businesses can focus on their core operations, while leaving the paperwork in capable hands. When it comes to one-off events, this can be a huge help and a weight off an organiser’s mind, as they can calculate costs based on easy to digest figures and budget accordingly.

Seasonal support for business resilience

Seasonal businesses face a unique challenge in retaining staff during closures and quiet periods. A staffing agency can bridge the gap, offering invaluable support and preventing businesses from feeling overwhelmed by unpredictable staffing requirements. This can mean swelling the ranks in busy periods, to supplement existing staff, without the need to recruit permanent staff. This is especially useful, for example, in the leisure and

Proactive partnership

It is important not to wait until you are drowning in staffing problems or the deadline for your event is approaching and you haven’t prepared staff requirements sufficiently. The key, according to the experts, is to proactively arrange meetings with staffing partners at the earliest opportunity. This approach allows businesses to gauge compatibility, ensuring that the chosen agency comprehends their operational nuances and lays the foundation for a robust, reliable working relationship.

Seamless solutions on standby

By building a relationship with a staffing agency partner now, you are investing in your future success. Your event’s success will be gauged on many differing aspects of the experience and staff and service will contribute greatly to how success is perceived. Already having trusted partners in mind for staff will allow you to integrate staffing solutions seamlessly, precisely when needed. This proactive approach prevents rushed decisions during critical moments, ensuring the right support is always at your fingertips.

Jack Mitchell Staff 86 01244 633386 info@staff86.com staff86.com

Event planning checklist

There is so much to do around planning your event and it is easy to miss out important elements. Although this checklist does not profess to cover everything, it is a helpful overview of some of the key things you need to tick off:

Know your ‘why’ – what is the reason for the event, who is it aimed at and what outcome are you looking to achieve? Clearly-define goals from its inception will make organising the event more straightforward, and its success easier to assess.

Find your venue – the venue options are endless, so think about what sort of venue you are looking for, considering things like venue size and capability, catering options, accessibility, availability and cost. Don’t pick somewhere vast, which you have no chance of filling, but equally, avoid somewhere too small, where everyone’s crammed in like sardines.

Decide on your catering – depending on your event, your catering requirements will vary considerably. Daytime or evening (or even overnight), there are many considerations and options to consider. You also need to think about whether the venue will provide the catering, or if this is another item on your checklist. Remember though, people will invariably remember whether the food was good, long after the details of the event fade.

Draw up your guestlist – this too needs careful consideration, to ensure you have the right balance of people in attendance. Is it for internal members of the company, clients or will tickets be on sale to the general public?

Plan your entertainment – whether the event is for business or social, some kind of ‘entertainment’ is likely to be expected, from speeches and presentations, to performances or games. It’s important that the right tone is met.

Send out your invites – make sure you invite your guests – or promote your event – in plenty of time. Peoples’ diaries get booked up, so advance notice is needed to ensure you maximise the opportunity for attendance.

Capture the moment – investing in quality photography and video at your event is worth the expense. Not only do you have a record of the conference, awards dinner, charity event or gathering, but you will also be able to use the footage or photography to promote future events.

Event marketing – an event is a good opportunity to promote your business. Make use of PR, social media and direct marketing to encourage attendance, or showcase your company in relation to the event via its advance publicity and ‘buzz’.

Secure feedback – no matter how fantastic an event is, there is always something you can learn from it. Ask your guests – and even your suppliers – for feedback from the event and use it to make the next one even better. If the positive feedback is from attendees, it can be used in promotional material too.

Don’t forget to be present! – as the organiser, it is easy to get lost in the detail and spend your time organising rather than experiencing. Make sure you have the right people in place to enable you to take a step back from the planning, so you can engage with the event and your guests, and take in what you have achieved!

“There are some people who live in a dream world, and there are some who face reality; and then there are those who turn one into the other”

- Douglas H. Everett

Early-stage business

Taking the first steps to start a business can be an exciting and challenging journey, with difficulties along the way that can derail success. In the UK, according to research by Fundsquire, a global startup funding network, 20% of small businesses fail in their first year and around 60% of small businesses fail within the first three years.

By FREDRICA REID

Many start-ups decide to put off taking legal advice, either seeing it as too expensive or simply placing it low down on the list of priorities –but this can be a false economy.

One of the foundations of building a successful business is getting the right legal advice and support early on from trusted advisors, as this will help business owners understand and overcome the challenges they face being an early-stage business. Starting with an unsuitable business structure, or not having proper documentation in place, can be costly further down the line.

Some key areas that business owners should consider:

Ownership structure

Seek advice on what kind of ownership structure suits you best: sole trader, private limited company or a partnership. Once the structure is decided upon, make sure that you have the appropriate documents in place. For a limited company, this may be bespoke articles of association, if you’re in business with others, a shareholders’ agreement or partnership agreement can be essential. All parties need to be clear on their roles, responsibilities and the direction your business is going in.

“If your suppliers are developing, manufacturing, supplying or creating products for you – it is best to have a contract to ensure milestones and deliverables are met”

Maximising funding and investment opportunities

Having sound legal advice can be the difference between business stagnation and taking the business to the next level, by securing funding or investment for growth. Professional advisors can assist in your access to capital by making sure your business or company is eligible for investment opportunities, such as schemes like the Enterprise Investment Scheme and Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme.

Employee management

Employees are considered as being a number one asset for a business. It is important to create an environment that drives employee engagement and encourages productivity, which in turn leads to better business performance. An employment solicitor can work with you ensuring that you have properly drafted employment contracts and

appropriate company policies in place. Having a trusted advisor who you can call upon to advise on issues such as employee performance issues, holiday pay, incentive arrangements and employee share option schemes is a key contributing factor in creating a positive workplace culture.

Contracts

Ensure that contracts in place with your customers and your suppliers. Clients and customers are what generates your revenue, so those contracts are of utmost importance. Whether that’s a licence, terms and conditions, or an agreement to supply goods and or services, the contract needs to be reasonable, while ensuring that the business is protected. If your suppliers are developing, manufacturing, supplying or creating products for you – it is best to have a contract to ensure milestones and deliverables are met.

Intellectual Property

An understanding of the various types of intellectual property rights is crucial for start-ups to identify the best course of action in protecting your innovative ideas, products and brand from the risks of infringement and imitation.

Awareness of intellectual property is not just limited to protecting your own brand, as any new business will need to ensure that it does not infringe on any rights of any third parties. Also, failure to identify and protect intellectual property will reduce its value and deter future investors or buyers.

Fredrica Reid Corporate and Commercial Team DTM

fredrica.reid@dtmlegal.com

take fl ight Helping ambition

National Apprenticeship Week, 5-11 February 2024

National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) 2024 was the 17th annual celebration of apprenticeships. This week, held annually, brings together everyone passionate about apprenticeships, to celebrate the value, benefit and opportunity that they bring.

Each year, the week has a different theme and the one for NAW 2024 was ‘Skills for Life’. This focussed on how apprenticeships can help individuals develop the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding career and for employers to develop a workforce with future-ready skills.

The following article from one apprentice demonstrates how this is truly the case:

Name: Jonathan Simpson Apprenticeship: Business Management Degree Apprentice Company: Airbus UK, Broughton

Having successfully completed my A levels from Sir John Deans College in Northwich, obtaining a Business Management apprenticeship at Airbus has fulfilled a deep ambition for me. My aim was to work for a forward-facing, innovative company, which values its future employees, through supporting the culture of ambitious pathway development. In fact, Airbus allows people to fly!

Choosing to follow an apprenticeship route for my career with Airbus provides me with a salary, academic qualifications, hands-on training and work, whilst contributing to the future of aerospace in real-time. For me every week is exciting, spending one day a week at university studying and four days on site.

Already, since September 2023 I have had the privilege to do placements in lean manufacturing, known as Airbus Operating Systems and Enablement, a function that dives into business improvement areas. With regular mentoring from senior colleagues, who are generous with their time, I have been encouraged to find innovative and sustainable solutions in the aviation industry, bringing creativity to new challenges I have been tasked with, such as leading new capital expenditure cases, or developing new and updated processes. From these opportunities I have already enhanced my communication, consolidation and time management skills, as well as developing a new understanding of leadership and management principles, whilst becoming embedded in the companies underpinning key priorities of safety, efficiency and environmental responsibility.

Airbus has multiple sites across the world, including France, Germany and America. Therefore, as I progress through my programme, the exciting opportunity to explore new ventures and learn from colleagues from other sites around the globe is a real positive. The reality is Airbus encourages all apprentices to have a passion for learning, with all sections of the company investing in new colleagues. This has allowed me to thrive and appreciate the incredible contributions that all members of the organisation bring.

Seeing the world-renowned Beluga up close has been a highlight so far, especially knowing that in time I will contribute to the components and wings that it transports to the final assembly lines, as order books are fulfilled across the globe.

For those fortunate to be considering their future pathway, from my experience I would wholeheartedly encourage you to consider the apprenticeship route. I hope you are as fortunate as I am to be employed by a company that understands the value to all stakeholders in designing, not only a world-leading brand in aviation, but also through its early career pathways.

For more information on Airbus Apprenticeships visit: airbus.com/en/careers/apprenticesand-pupils

Women supporting women

Friday 8 March 2024 is International Women’s Day. To mark this national event, we would like to share the following article from one of our contributors.

Women are amazing. Running your own business, being a career-driven businesswoman and a present mother and partner is a difficult challenge, but that is why it is so important to support, encourage and celebrate the success of all the women around you.

Having been inspired myself by the strong influential females I had at home and work, I now run my own successful business and strive to support other driven women in their career building, motherhood or even just to offer a hand to hold in the craziness of life.

I am so lucky that because of my business I get to meet women from all walks of life, at different stages in their career paths, women about to embark on motherhood, and older ladies, who pass on their wealth of knowledge.

By JESS MCLEAY (Dr Wax)

Who am I?

I'm Jess McLeay (Dr Wax). I am 31, a mother to my nearly three-year-old son Henry and partner of 13 years to Luke. I started Dr Wax when I returned to work after my maternity leave, as I knew working for myself was the answer to having the flexibility I needed with my little one. I knew that I was going to lean on my skills as a therapist, but I decided that waxing was the route I wanted to really specialise in, particularly intimate waxing. I struggled to find the service in Chester. Once I discovered Lycon, I decided to start my training – I never realised how busy I was going to be!

What was my dream?

I have travelled the world providing treatments on cruise ships, worked for premium cosmetic brands and I have

“I now run my own successful business and strive to support other driven women in their career building, motherhood or even just to offer a hand to hold in the craziness of life”

managed large spas and beauty counters. But I dreamt of setting up my own beauty business. I always knew I wanted to work for myself and my personality is the perfect fit for a job in the beauty industry. I love everything about providing services that make women feel good about themselves and lending that ear to someone who needs to vent, or providing some humour when someone needs to be uplifted.

Which women supported me?

I am extremely lucky to have the most supportive and encouraging women around me. My close friend and owner of Doll Beauty, Danielle Gregory, encouraged and inspired me to take the leap of faith into self-employment. Alongside supporting me as a friend with the greatest business advice, she has also supported me as a client since

the beginning too. Doll Beauty’s HQ in Chester is the most inspirational and uplifting place to work, as I'm surrounded by self-employed women and we are always supporting and pushing each other to achieve.

Becoming Dr Wax

In 2022, I started at Doll Beauty and have since offered an array of waxing services at this salon consecutively every week. Two years on, I have a loyal client base filled with wonderful women which I adore and have grown with. I catch up on their lives and many of my clients have become friends I treasure.

Opening doors for other women

A regular client of mine, Jessica Gillett, recently graduated from University and was looking to start up her own business and pursue a career in PR and marketing. Having had ‘the door opened for me’ at the beginning of my waxing career, it was time to pay it back, and support and encourage Jess to go for her dream too.

“I'm surrounded by selfemployed women and we are always supporting and pushing each other to achieve”

It fell at the most perfect time, as I knew I needed help with my social media and marketing, so I asked Jess if she’d be interested in working for me, and it’s been the best decision ever. We’ve become great friends, a fantastic business partnership and she’s still a regular client! Jess is now working with multiple clients and is pushing herself to become her own brand full-time, and knows she has my full support whenever she needs it.

In 2024 I want to take Dr Wax to new heights and bring my community of women together.

I am currently planning to have my first Dr Wax get-together, as I have met so many like-minded women whilst running my business, that I know would all get on so well. Whether that’s because they are mothers too, similar ages, or just because we are all empowered women – I can’t wait to get together and see what conversations come up around the table.

Jess McLeay (Dr Wax) Instagram: @doctorrwax doctorwaxchester@gmail.com

Q&A

behind the business

What’s brewing at Big Hand Brewing?

By PHIL STRACHAN

Brewing is a challenging and highly competitive business at the best of times, but to have survived and thrived, especially through the Covid 19 period, is quite an achievement –especially for an independent brewery. One such ‘against all odds’ success story is multiple award-winning Big Hand Brewing Co, with its quirky and highly distinctive identity. Based on Wrexham Industrial Estate, it is now in its 11th year and is Wrexham’s longest serving brewer of ales. Having enjoyed their quality handcrafted ales since moving to North Wales in 2021, and knowing of the major challenge the business has had to overcome in the last 18 months, I greatly appreciated the opportunity to meet with owner, Carole Shaw.

Carole, in the past I have seen you being referred to as ‘the accidental brewer’ – can you tell me a bit more about this?

Yes. My husband Dave, who was managing director and co-founder of the brewery back in 2013, sadly passed away from cancer in 2022. The brewery and brewing were his passion and although I knew nothing about brewing, or the running of the business, I wanted to continue his legacy and passion. So, finding myself the new owner, I took up the reins to work with the very capable and close-knit team, including head brewer Adam, ably assisted by brewer Josh, and Craig our sales and distribution manager.

The business takes its name from Dave’s big hands and hence its very distinctive and quirky identity. Your hands are significantly smaller, but it must be very clear to all that the business is in very capable hands.

Indeed, Dave was a larger than life character is so many ways! Having not previously been involved with the brewery, I have had to turn my hand to so many new things.

Photography by Adrian Waine - Photography for Industry

“We will continue to blend traditional values and flavours with innovation and creativity, which has always been what sets us apart”

It has been a steep learning curve, especially as I have my own full-time job to hold down at the same time. However, the committed team at Big Hand Brewing is so enthusiastic and capable, and we have all been pulling together with some success.

One unusual thing that you all pulled together on last year was in providing backstage refreshments to rock royalty over the May Bank Holiday weekend – which I believe you delivered personally.

That’s correct. We were selected to support multi-award-winning Kings of Leon with their backstage refreshment needs in the form of Appaloosa – our award-winning American Pale Ale – as they performed two sell-out concerts at the Racecourse Stadium. It was a pleasure to support the band and the perfect way for us to celebrate the achievement of 10 years in business.

Having established a formidable presence in the craft brewing scene in North Wales, is it now a question of Wrexham today, tomorrow the world?

No. We are not looking for world domination! I think you are referring to our support for yachtswoman Pip Hare in the 2024 Vendée Globe non-stop single-handed round the world race.

We are not trying to rock the boat,but I believe this is a first for any brewer. Dave was an enthusiastic yachtsman and followed this gruelling event with

a passion. Since last year was the brewery’s 10th anniversary and 2024 will be the 10th Vendée Globe, we decided to support Pip’s challenge as a tribute to Dave. To mark the event, we will be launching a new ale called Mordaith – Welsh for Voyage.

Despite the challenges you have faced, it seems it was pretty much plain sailing in the second half of 2023 and you had a very successful trading quarter in the important run-up to Christmas.

Yes. We were busy! We turned on the tap in terms of some new bottled ales that went down very well and we were working flat out right up to the last minute. It was all hands to the pumps to ensure that we produced and delivered against all the orders we had from our many very loyal, and also some new, customers.

So, what does the future hold – what are the plans for the year ahead?

We will continue to blend traditional values and flavours with innovation and creativity, which has always been what sets us apart, and our extensive range will include cask conditioned ales as well as keg and bottled beers.

We are exploring new areas and looking to develop our presence in the A41 corridor for our cask ales and at expansion into London pubs with the Craft Beer Co.

I believe that you have plans to re-create Havok?

Yes, we are bringing back Havok by popular demand but in a different guise – in a new style keg and can ready for the summer and, as you well know, we have some very innovative and exciting range segmentation plans – so watch this space. We plan to keep ahead and to be around for a long time!

I’ll drink to that, Carole. It is very clear that the culture within Big Hand Brewing is very much one of ‘glass totally full’.

For more information on Big Hand Brewing, its story and range of craft ales visit bighandbrewing.co.uk 01978 660709 sales@bighandbrewing.co.uk

Venue

finding

Whether you are looking for a meeting room for two people, or somewhere to bring whole teams and businesses together, the vicinity of Chester and Wrexham is not short of choice to cater to your needs. Here are our latest suggestions for meeting venues.

Hotel Indigo, Chester ihg.com

Hotel Indigo in Chester is a contemporary, boutique hotel, which offers a stylish boardroom, The Retreat, for up to 11 guests complete with a large flat-screen TV and HDMI connection and WiFi access. Complimentary note pads, pencils, stationery and flipchart and pens. Breaks and lunch can be supplied by its restaurant. Designed to reflect the city’s famous architecture, all 75 stunning guest rooms feature hypnos beds and stylish bathrooms with rainfall showers.

The Lion, Malpas thelionatmalpas.co.uk

The Lion is perfect for corporate Away Days, AGMs, and other meetings where you also want to be assured of good food and if needed, a great place to stay. Its Brereton Suite has lots of natural light and is spacious enough for meetings up to 30 guests in either theatre, cabaret or boardroom style. There are 30 complimentary parking spaces for your guests, including an electric charging point and accessible space. Its proximity to the A41 also allows easy access north and south for connections to Whitchurch, Wrexham, Chester and beyond.

ōH Chester Design Foundation, Chester ohfoundation.uk

ōH Chester Design Foundation is a newly-formed community interest company (CIC), social enterprise committed to supporting the growth and development of the creative industries in Chester. Situated in the heart of Chester, you can also hire the space to host your own event or collaborate with the team if you need more support. There is also a coffee lounge open for all to use, selling speciality coffee from Jaunty Goat.

Grosvenor Pulford Hotel & Spa

Grosvenorpulfordhotel.co.uk

Grosvenor Pulford Hotel & Spa offers superb corporate facilities for business delegates. Individually designed, highspecification conference facilities, function suites and dining rooms are ideal for a variety of business events, including conventions, off-site meetings, interviews, seminars and presentations, training and workshops, networking events, lunches, dinners and teambuilding events. No matter your working requirements, the hotel can tailor corporate packages for a range of business purposes.

Do you have a venue you would like to see featured?

If you have used a hotel or other venue for a business meeting, conference, seminar, training or team building event and you think it should be featured in a future issue, please contact us with your suggestions.

What’s on

A round-up of some of the business event happening in and around Chester and Wrexham from March to June 2024

WEDNESDAY 6 MARCH

08:00 – 11:30

Workshop 1 – Carbon Reduction and Net zero: what does it mean for your business?

So much jargon and no idea what it all means? This workshop will help you get to grips on what your business needs to do, to benefit from positive action, to support your future growth and to help achieve Wales’s target of becoming Net Zero by 2050.

Gladstone’s Library, Hawarden Flintshire, CH5 3DF http://tinyurl.com/326n7ucu

TUESDAY 12 MARCH

10:00 – 14:30

Wrexham Business Show

North Wales’s premier business networking event, where you can meet 100s of local decisionmakers who have already registered to attend this event. Designed for decisionmakers, team leaders, owners, managers and directors from all sizes of business.

Brymbo Sports & Social Complex, College Hill, Tanyfron, Brymbo, Wrexham, LL11 5TF wrexhambusinessshow.co.uk

WEDNESDAY 20 MARCH

12:00 – 15:00

Celebrating Entrepreneurship at Wrexham University

Wrexham University will be celebrating entrepreneurship! This free, in-person event is the perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, gain inspiration, and learn from successful entrepreneurs.

Wrexham University, Main campus, The Gallery, Mold Road, LL11 2AW http://tinyurl.com/22asu8kt

WEDNESDAY 20 MARCH

08:00 – 11:30

Workshop 2 – Resource efficiency It can be difficult to know what cost saving can be achieved – gas, water, waste, energy, packaging, it all mounts up. This workshop will help you think about your business and how to make simple changes, to become more efficient. You will also be able to develop a plan for you to practically implement in your business, to start working towards your goals and to share with your staff.

Gladstone’s Library, Hawarden Flintshire, CH5 3DF http://tinyurl.com/9w4azcrx

WEDNESDAY 20 MARCH

12:30 - 14:30

Networking Lunch at Ramada Plaza, Wrexham

West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce networking Ramada Plaza Wrexham, Ellice Way, Wrexham LL13 7YH http://tinyurl.com/m56fbm48

WEDNESDAY 20 MARCH

10:00 – 15:00

Chester – Cheshire Business Expo

An exciting in-person event, which brings together local businesses, entrepreneurs and professionals for a day of networking, learning and collaboration. Discover new opportunities, showcase your products and services, and connect with likeminded individuals in the vibrant business community of Chester and Cheshire.

Chester Town Hall, 33 Northgate Street, Chester CH1 2HQ http://tinyurl.com/yeyebfuy

WED, 20 MAR 2024

11:00 - 12:00

Two Steps Back: Gaining Perspective on Your Business

This in-person event is designed to provide you with valuable insights and strategies to help you navigate the challenges and opportunities in today’s business landscape.

Chester Town Hall, 33 Northgate Street, Chester CH1 2HQ http://tinyurl.com/ycyara7m

THURSDAY 21 MARCH

17:00 – 19:00

VOX networking

Join us and special guest speaker Maja Kenney, owner of Maja’s Motorcycle Adventures, for an evening of interesting conversation and networking.

ōH Design Foundation, 22 Bridge Street, Chester CH1 1NQ ezpublishing.co.uk

THURSDAY 21 MARCH 09:30 – 11:30

West Cheshire Women’s Network

Founded in 2013, West Cheshire Women’s Network provides an opportunity for businesswomen to come together. Special guest at this session will be Philippa Fairbrother from Satori People Development.

Cheshire View, Plough Lane, Christleton, Chester CH3 7PT http://tinyurl.com/bkup7j8w

If you have an event taking place between June and August 2024, please let us know, so we can include it in our next issue. email: clara@ezpublishing.co.uk

THURSDAY 21 MARCH

Business Wales, Explore Export Wales – North Wales

Get the latest export news and advice; speak to support organisations; explore overseas opportunities; and discover tools to make your exporting business more self-sufficient.

Village Hotel - Chester St David's, St David's Park, Ewloe. CH5 3YB http://tinyurl.com/2hb2yuha

FRIDAY 22 MARCH

08:30 - 12:00

Ignite Your Business – Growth Strategy Workshop for Company Leaders

A half-day growth strategy workshop, just for company leaders, to identify and prioritise what they need to do now to grow the value of their businesses over the next 12 months, and to start planning how they’re going to do it.

The Uncommon Practice, Unit 2G Redwither Tower, Wrexham LL13 9XT http://tinyurl.com/3fbz8jww

WEDNESDAY 27 MARCH

09:30 – 11:30

The Business Network and Moneypenny Networking

There will be open networking, an educational seminar and an opportunity to take a tour round these iconic offices. Learn more about the culture of this local business and meet companies from the area.

Moneypenny, Western Gateway Wrexham LL13 7ZB business-network-chester.co.uk

WEDNESDAY 10 APRIL

08:00 – 11:30

Workshop 3 – The scopes – 1, 2 & 3

It can be very confusing what the scopes mean and what data needs to be collected to give your business Carbon Footprint calculations. Get a full understanding of the different scopes and how you go about gathering information.This is a must for businesses who want to achieve successful bids, to supply goods and services for larger businesses and organisations.

Gladstone's Library, Hawarden, Flintshire CH5 3DF http://tinyurl.com/ysym5afs

WEDNESDAY 17 APRIL

09:00 – 11:00

Round the Table Networking at Cheshire College – South & West One of the Chamber’s speciality events, Round the Table Networking provides guests with the opportunity to meet plenty of people.

Cheshire College - South & West, Ellesmere Port Campus, Off Sutton Way, Ellesmere Port CH65 7BF http://tinyurl.com/ynkptmvk

WEDNESDAY 17 APRIL

09:30 – 10:30

International Trade Hot Topic – Net Zero for International Trade

The briefing will be one-hour online session, which will cover current hot topics, include a guest speaker and a Q&A session.

Online http://tinyurl.com/458fh8m7

FRIDAY 26 APRIL

09:30 – 12:00

Sales Club 2.0

In this interactive workshop, you will learn how to stay on top of managing your sales cycle and how it can have a positive impact on performance!

Village Hotel Chester St David's, St David’s Park, Ewloe CH5 3YB http://tinyurl.com/3awxuz7y

TUESDAY 30 APRIL

12:30 – 14:30

Lunch at Chester Football Club

TUE 30/04/2024 12:30 - 14:30

The Chamber of Commerce is delighted to invite you to join its Networking Lunch at Chester Football Club.

Chester FC, Deva Stadium, Bumpers Lane, Chester CH1 4LT http://tinyurl.com/3sfjckbz

THURSDAY 9 MAY

09:30 – 17:30

Chamber Golf Day

An opportunity for Chamber members and non-members to to play at a world class venue with breakfast, dinner, networking, and award ceremony.

Macdonald Portal Hotel Golf & Spa, Tarporley CW6 0DJ http://tinyurl.com/baesw5nd

THURSDAY 9 – SATURDAY 11 MAY

Focus Wales Conference

FOCUS Wales hosts an interactive music conference over the duration of the festival, featuring panels, seminars and discussions from experts from across the globe. It offers in-depth music industry insights

Tŷ Pawb, Wrexham LL13 8BB focuswales.com

FRIDAY 10 MAY

9:00 - 23:30

West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce is delighted to announce its North Wales Dinner, which is sponsored by Sales Geek North Wales. North Wales Dinner

Quay Hotel and Spa, Deganwy Quay, Deganwy LL31 9DJ http://tinyurl.com/mr4x8bzf

TUESDAY 14 MAY

09:00 – 11:00

Round the Table Networking at Brewhouse and Kitchen

These Chamber's events are a fun, lively and friendly way of getting to know fellow business people in the local community.

Brewhouse and Kitchen, Love Street, Chester, CH1 1QY http://tinyurl.com/ytdsd6ya

TUESDAY 4 JUNE

09:00 - 11:00

Round the Table Networking at Hospice of the Good Shepherd Guests will be welcomed to the Hospice of the Good Shepherd for the West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce’s June Round Table Networking event.

Hospice of the Good Shepherd, Gordon Lane, Chester CH2 4DG http://tinyurl.com/bdd4t4fn

SATURDAY 8 JUNE – SUNDAY 16 JUNE

Chester’s Great Big Green Week

Events happening throughout the city, throughout the week.

Look out for further information

Networking

There is a whole host of networking opportunities across Chester and Wrexham – from groups that you have to join and attend a structured weekly meeting, through to one-off events that you can ‘pay as you go’. Most membership groups offer you the chance to attend as a guest – often for the first one or two sessions – to allow you the time to work out if it is a group that suits you. If you are new to networking, try a few and see if you can find a group that works for you and your business. If you have an event you would like listed in a future issue, please get in touch.

Networx 4 Business networx4business.co.uk

Networx offers membership networking at locations in Chester and Wrexham. Membership cost is £600 for 12 months, per venue and includes breakfast. With just one business type per group, you’ll have the opportunity to talk about your business and what you are looking for.

Business NetWalkers, Chester businessnetwalkers.com

Business NetWalkers helps you improve your wealth and wellbeing, whilst growing your network by enhancing mental performance and wellbeing, improving physical fitness, talking and collaborating with like-minded people.

BNI bninorthwales.co.uk bnicheshire.co.uk

BNI provides a structured environment for the development and exchange of quality business referrals.

Theatre Clwyd Business Network theatrclwyd.com

Free Business Breakfast Networking Events held at the theatre.

FSB fsb.org.uk

FSB members can join virtual events, including networking and surgeries.

Network She Netwalking – Chester networkshe.co.uk

Netwalking is free to attend and was set up to help Network SHE’s members with their mental and physical wellbeing, business and personal development, as well as about building great relationships.

Tarporley Business Club tarporleybusinessclub.co.uk

Tarporley Business Club offers face-toface meetings on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month.

The sessions are held at The Swan in Tarporley from 9:30-11:30 am. It is a not-for-profit group aiming to develop the local business community, resulting in maximising growth and success. Memberships available, £10 fee for first time visitors.

Elevate Netwalking elevatewithellie.co.uk https://bit.ly/3XLuI14

Elevate Netwalking hosts 5km circular routes around Delamere Forest and Bickerton Hill with like-minded business owners. It’s a walk that benefits your physical and mental health, and is good for business too.

For purpose-led business owners who love to meet like-minded people, spend time in nature and move their bodies, but are short on time to fit it all in. 10% of ticket sales go to ecolgi to help fight climate change.

West Cheshire and North Wales Chamber of Commerce wcnwchamber.org.uk

West Cheshire and North Wales Chamber of Commerce is the leading organisation representing the business community across the whole of West Cheshire and North Wales. As an independent, not-for-profit organisation, its objectives remain clear: to promote and encourage business for members and others regionally, nationally and internationally to improve commercial growth and prosperity.

Institute of Directors (IOD) iod.com

The Institute of Directors is the UK's largest membership organisation for business leaders, providing informative events, professional development courses for self-improvement, networking and expert advice. IOD is the only institute in the world to offer internationally recognised qualifications designed by directors for directors, specific to the core competencies required of directors and senior leaders.

Cheshire Networking with Leading Ladies in Business leadingladiesinbusiness.co.uk

As long as you have a strong network of professional connections, you can be confident that someone within your sphere will be able to answer even your toughest questions – and if there’s no definitive answer, you’ll have a solid sounding board to bounce ideas off and put into action step-by-step.

360 Networking Group bit.ly/details—networking

360 Networking monthly meetings are run by Wrexham County Borough Council’s Business and Investment team. All meetings, together with annual membership are now free of charge. Each meeting takes place within the Redwither Tower on Wrexham Industrial Estate between 17:00 - 18:45.

Chester Business Club chesterbusinessclub.co.uk

One of the principal activities of Chester Business Club is its Speaker Dinners. The aim of these Black Tie events is to provide an impartial forum for leading commentators to speak on a topic of their own choosing, as a positive contribution to increasing public awareness of the important issues of the day.

The Business Network Chester business-network-chester.co.uk

The Business Network Chester meets at lunchtime in prestigious venues around Chester, it provides a highly-structured event, which enables attendees to meet senior decision makers in a relaxed and enjoyable environment. Attendees may also attend a free, highly-educational seminar, which runs prior to the event.

Real5 Networking — Chester real5networking.com

Real5 Networking is a business venture focused on local business networking for mutual commercial gains. The idea is that all members agree to give a minimum 5% profit share back to the referee, so there is a real incentive to maximise the network.

VOX Networking ezpublishing.co.uk/events

MDA Innovation Network Business Breakfasts merseydeealliance.org.uk

MDA Innovation Network offers a series of bimonthly business breakfasts with the ultimate aim of improving business performance, by providing business to business networking opportunities and information on regional and national initiatives.

VOX Networking events take place quarterly following the publication of each issue.

The two-hour sessions provide the opportunity to meet and talk with other local businesspeople, and each one will have a special guest speaker.

Numbers are limited and tickets cost £15, including refreshments.

NETWORKING

As the tenth issue of VOX comes out, we are continuing with our quarterly networking session. Join us for an evening of networking and interesting conversations. Book your space online at: www.ezpublishing.co.uk/events Join us for our networking session with special guest speaker:

DATE: Thursday 21st March 2024

TIME: 17:00 - 19:00

LOCATION: OH Chester Design Foundation

PRICE: £15 (includes refreshments)

Hickory’s Smokehouse, Wrexham Southern hospitality Bitesize

Offering the authentic taste of the Deep South, Hickory’s Smokehouse is a small but perfectly formed group of authentic barbecue-style restaurants, which live and breathe the values of southern USA hospitality

The first Hickory’s Smokehouse opened its doors in 2010 in Chester, a year to the day after its owners’ first road trip across America’s Southern States. Its most recent restaurant opened late 2023 in Wrexham, on Sontley Road. The company, which operates 19 restaurants across the North West, North Wales, the Midlands and Yorkshire, is thrilled to have opened in Wrexham. Its restaurants in Rhos-on-Sea, Chester and Shrewsbury have already become firm favourites with many local diners.

Known for its unique blend of authentic smokehouse dishes, combined with an inventive drinks and cocktail offering, the Hickory’s team really does look to welcome everyone – it’s known for its inclusive, community-focussed, family-friendly vibe. The restaurant chain has five values that underpin everything it does, says or plans. They are intrinsic to every part of the Hickory’s experience. Those values are authentic, welcoming, passionate, daring and community.

Hickory’s in Wrexham is especially excited about its unique offering for sports fans. Its Barn has

been designed as a dual-purpose hub for indoor dining with family and friends as you enjoy the sport, with an ‘outside’ covered sports space, aptly named the ‘End Zone’. These areas come complete with multiple large screens, perfect for catching a range of sports and of course its NFL Sundays, throughout the American Football season.

The Barn and End Zone also provide a great events space for the local business community, and Hickory’s is keen to host a range of business events from networking and training courses, through to celebrations and staff nights – and everything in-between.

If you are looking for the perfect combination of food and entertainment, with a big helping of Southern hospitality, then speak to the team to see how you can work together.

For more information and to book a table, visit: hickorys.co.uk

Advertise your business in the next issue of VOX

We offer value for money advertising opportunities, and we are keen for you to see a return on your investment. We will work with you to identify the best package to meet your needs. As well as advertising, we offer sponsorship, competition and leaflet opportunities too.

Just one thing...

It’s always interesting to get other people’s take on a question. Each issue we pose one question to some of our contributors to see what their responses are.

This issue the question is…

“What is your secret approach to business development?”

“My approach has always been building strong business connections, and focusing on genuine relationships as a community and business magazine publisher. By understanding and involving the local community, we create inclusive content that engages our readers. This transforms them into active participants, fostering a vibrant community that supports and grows our publications.”

Vicky Heathfield creative director at VOX and owner of EssentialsMAG

“I began the business with the motto ‘Just Be You’ with the line that I could plan ANY event based on the client's personality, and although this could be true, the time alone to do this is unmanageable and makes my work less efficient (something I pride myself on).

By knowing my clients I can tailor my marketing and sales efforts to better appeal to the right people. I can identify potential partners and suppliers who also fit with the target audience, and I can importantly build relationships. I am customer-led and pride myself on my personal approach to working with clients as after all happy customers' regardless of the event are the key to any business.”

Katie Skellon owner of Skellon Events

“As a business we are extremely proud of our strong client relationships, each conversation we have and each project we deliver are crucial to our future success. With client referrals and recommendations our primary source of new business opportunities… we are only as good as our last job!”

Carl Whitney Woodlands Marketing

“New business doesn’t happen overnight, it relies on the groundwork being established over a period of time through good marketing and communications (well I would say that, wouldn’t I?). Whether this is your website, direct marketing or your social media channels – or even your participation in exhibitions, conferences or networking events – it all feeds into your brand’s development.

A lot of Zebra’s new business comes from word-ofmouth recommendations and building a genuine network of trusted business contacts and friends.”

Clara Hughes editorial director at VOX and owner of Zebra Marketing and Communications

“A key aspect of my approach to business development involves emphasising patience and waiting for the right time for the client. Instead of employing forceful sales tactics that might not align with the client's needs or timing, I prioritise building a genuine understanding of their requirements and the optimal moment for them to make a decision.

Moreover, I focus on being a resource and providing valuable insights to the client, even if it doesn't immediately lead to a sale. This positions me as a trusted advisor, creating a foundation for a longterm relationship. When the timing is right for the client, they are more likely to remember and appreciate the patient and consultative approach.

In essence, my secret approach is to prioritise the client's needs and timeline, cultivating patience and delivering value consistently, which ultimately leads to more meaningful and lasting business relationships.”

Jack Mitchell managing director at

Staff 86

“I

Charity Spotlight

In our Charity Spotlight section we highlight the amazing charities that are making a difference in our community.

Nightingale House Hospice

At Nightingale House Hospice, we offer palliative care services to individuals and their families living with progressive or life-limiting illnesses. Our dedicated team is committed to delivering compassionate and comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s unique needs, encompassing physical, emotional, spiritual and social support. What’s more, our services are provided free of charge, ensuring our patients can focus on their journey with peace of mind. We take great pride in providing empathetic support and comfort every step of the way, and we’re honoured to be a part of their journey.

Our services are available 365 days a year, thanks to donations from the community and businesses, enabling us to care for patients during the most challenging times.

Recently, we have modernised our Inpatient Unit with state-of-the-art facilities, to ensure we can continue providing top-quality patient care for many years. It is essential for us to create an environment with specialist equipment, furniture and fittings that would create a modern, clinically excellent care facility for our community with a homely atmosphere.

Several businesses have contributed to a lasting legacy, by sponsoring one of our 12 patient rooms, proudly displaying their brand on the door for all to see for many years to come. Individuals also have the option to sponsor the rooms.

Sponsorship

This page has been sponsored by Acton Safety (www.actonsafety.co.uk)

To sponsor our next Charity Spotlight - you can recommend the charity and make a donation (with a suggested minimum donation of £100), for details contact Clara Hughes: clara@ezpublishing.co.uk

Working with businesses from the local community is vital to ensure that our services continue to be available to local people and their families. These partnerships are a positive way to give back to the community, through a multitude of different ways:

• Sponsor a patient room

• Sponsor an event

• Take part in a hospice challenge

• Charity of the year

• Collection Tins

• Donations

• Hospice lottery payroll scheme

• Gifts in kind

All contributions make a huge difference for people living with life-limiting conditions in the local community, meaning patients and their families can access palliative care services and support from the clinical team at our hospice in Wrexham:

PATIENT QUOTE: “From the minute you walk into Nightingale House and meet the people who work and volunteer on reception, there is just an air of positivity and light… It is just invaluable… It’s hard to put into words how much it means.”

Contact details nightingalehouse.co.uk 01978 316800

info@nightingalehouse.co.uk

Booka FreeSiteVisit

and Safety Partner Introducing: Acton Safety

Delivering personal, highly professional health & safety services

Ever find yourself pondering over complex health and safety queries, losing sleep over compliance, or feeling unsure about the safest course of action?

Acton Safety is your trusted partner in navigating the complexities of health and safety. Whether you find yourself in need of expert guidance for routine compliance tasks or require a comprehensive audit complete with action plans, rest assured, we have the depth of expertise you are looking for.

Say goodbye to unanswered questions and sleepless nights - choose Acton Safety for a safer, more efficient workplace.

EXPERT GUIDANCE:

We offer tailored solutions for compliance and safety measures.

COMPREHENSIVE PLATFORM:

A user-friendly online programme that goes beyond standard policies, providing flexibility and support.

PROACTIVE CONSULTANCY:

Dedicated consultants collaborate to reduce workplace risks and enhance overall well-being.

TAILORED SOLUTIONS:

From routine compliance tasks to full-scale audits, adapted to your unique needs.

EFFICIENCY:

Streamline processes, saving time and money on health and safety obligations.

OBJECTIVE AUDITS:

Benefit from assessments to continuously improve your health and safety provision.

POSITIVE CULTURE:

Foster employee engagement and create a safer work environment.

Acton Safety, Allied House, Bryn Lane, Wrexham Industrial Estate, Wrexham LL13 9UT

Tel: 01978 784302

info@actonsafety.co.uk www.actonsafety.co.uk

Charity round-up

Our charity pages are an opportunity to highlight the good work local charities are undertaking, promote fundraising success and future events.

New charity of the year for 2024 announced by P&A Group

The P&A Group has announced North-East Wales Mind as its charity of the year for 2024. Employees of the P&A Group have set a fundraising target of £10,000 for 2024, with a variety of charity initiatives planned. North-East Wales Mind helps people in Flintshire and Wrexham recover from mental health problems and stay emotionally healthy. In addition to face to face, telephone counselling and emotional support, the charity offers a range of online services and activities.

Wrexham Charity TCC and Young Leaders Launch #NoHungryLearners Campaign to Eradicate School Dinner Debt

Wrexham-based community organising charity TCC (Trefnu Cymunedol Cymru/Together Creating Communities) and young activist members from St Joseph’s Catholic & Anglican School, Wrexham have engaged in an extensive campaign during 2023 entitled #NoHungryLearners – that seeks to alleviate the burden of school meal debt and promote equal opportunities for all children to thrive academically.

Many students rely on school meals as a crucial source of nutrition, but unfortunately not all families can afford to pay for these meals. The burden of dinner debt not only compromises the physical and mental wellbeing of these students, but also affects their ability to concentrate and excel academically. The Young Leaders carried out a survey to measure the impact this has on students and discovered that the stress of school dinner debt had a profound impact on their wellbeing and left some with feelings of humiliation and worry.

To support their work, the group have also discussed issues regarding school dinner debt and child poverty with Lesley Griffiths MS, Ken Skates MS, Councillor Phil Wynn, Lead Member for Education, and Rocio Cifuentes, Children's Commissioner for Wales. Recently, TCC and the Young Leaders presented their campaign video at the National Child Poverty Summit in Swansea, which featured numerous charity and community organisations from across Wales, key speakers including the Children’s Commissioner for Wales, and Jane Hutt MS, Minister for Social Justice.

Tomorrow’s Women

Originally based in Birkenhead, Wirral, Tomorrow’s Women (TW) recently launched a new centre in Chester, extending the reach of support to women in Cheshire West and Chester.

TW is a charity led by women for women. It offers all adult women aged 18+ a safe, female-only environment where they can be provided with a range of tools and support to make positive lifestyle changes. Women are able to self-refer in order to access any of the courses, support and activities available within its monthly timetable.

It aims to do this by reducing the personal, social, health and economic disadvantages experienced by women through working in partnership to improve access to all relevant services and community resources. TW offers support with issues such as mental health, substance misuse, confidence and self-esteem, domestic abuse and social isolation.

It offers support and guidance to women who have suffered domestic abuse. It can help them recognise red flags for the future, help them set healthy boundaries and allow them to build confidence. It also has solicitors within the centre who specialise in this particular area, should the woman need that kind of support. Women’s mental health and wellbeing is at the forefront of its centre, it offers group support sessions in this area and also holistic approaches such as yoga and meditation. It has a counsellor on site if the women would like to complete a referral form to access that support as well.

The Big Sunflower Project

The Big Sunflower Project aims to raise awareness of the rare neuromuscular conditions, known as centronuclear and myotubular myopathy, by asking people to grow a sunflower and share their sunflower photos online. The project was established in 2011 after founder Toni Abram and her father Mike were diagnosed with centronuclear myopathy.

Toni says: “Who doesn’t love sunflowers, with their cheery demeanour oozing positivity, even on the darkest days, standing tall and finding the sunlight? I love sunflowers and the way they grow to such dizzy heights, as if they are on a mission to touch the sky and nothing can hold them back.”

Since the project began sunflowers have been grown in the UK, Ireland, the Isle of Man, the USA, Costa Rica, Argentina, the Philippines, the Middle East, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, the Netherlands, France, Croatia, Hungary, Sweden, Austria, Lithuania, Greece and Poland. Sunflowers have been grown in gardens, on allotments, by schools, hospitals, community groups and even in a vineyard.

Could you grow a sunflower to raise awareness of centronuclear and myotubular myopathy this summer?

Taking part is easy.

1. Buy a packet of sunflower seeds.

2. Plant a seed in a sunny spot, water regularly and watch it grow.

3. Take a photo of your sunflower and share on your favourite social media platform using hashtag: #TheBigSunflowerProject

Further information about the project can be found at thebigsunflowerproject.com and there is an active Facebook group at facebook.com/groups/406061643077357 where participants can share photos, ask questions and share tips.

Chester Business Club charity fundraising quiz generates £1,500 for good causes across the city

Chester Business Club kick-started its 2024 fundraising drive with a charity quiz that generated £1,500 for good causes. 60 players, spread across 16 teams, locked horns for the special event at the Abode Hotel in Chester in January. In a unique twist, each of the seven rounds was sponsored by a member of the Chester Business Club.

Charities benefitting from the quiz included The Border Collie Trust, The Salvation Army, Help for Heroes, Refuge, Cheshire Scouts, SHARE, Children’s Adventure Farm Trust and the Hospice of the Good Shepherd. A donation from each ticket sold also went to Platform for Life, whose trustee Alan Seiber attended the event and thanked those participating for their support.

Holiday home ambition for Cheshire disability charity

Warrington Disability Partnership has unveiled plans to purchase a brand-new fully accessible holiday home that is exclusively available for disabled people and their families.

£68,000 is needed and the fundraising will start with a spectacular ‘March Hare Ball’, hosted in partnership with law firm Aaron & Partners on 1 March 2024. Dave Thompson MBE, Chief Executive of Warrington Disability Partnership, said: "Our charity ball with Aaron & Partners will be one of the biggest events we’ve ever hosted and we're hoping people will get behind us and help make 2024 a memorable year, where we can continue to make a real difference.”

Housing Justice – Citadel

Housing Justice Cymru’s mission is to mobilise action on homelessness and housing need through love, justice, advocacy and nurture. In Wrexham, the focus of its work is the Citadel project. Citadel is a homelessness prevention project which supports people experiencing, or at risk of homelessness, to find and sustain their tenancies and establish a home. It works alongside volunteers to achieve this.

In 2024, the organisation needs more volunteers to be a listening, empathetic ear for someone experiencing housing difficulties and to fundraise for its additional costs, such as carpets and curtains.

Charity round-up

Art Box makes donation to The Hospice of the Good Shepherd in commemoration of local artist

Art Box, the Chester-based art gallery, is proud to announce a £400 donation has been made to The Hospice of the Good Shepherd in commemoration of the late local artist, Mary Eckersley. The donation aims to honour the artist’s legacy and support the invaluable work of The Hospice of the Good Shepherd in Chester.

Mary Eckersley, who passed away in 2021 at the age of 93, was self-taught and was originally from Manchester before settling in Hoole, Chester. Mary enrolled in The University of Wales, Glyndŵr University, in Wrexham in 1996 aged 68, graduating three years later at the age of 71 with a Bachelor of Arts in Design.

“The Art Box team deeply values the contributions that local artists bring to the community. Mary Eckersley was an exceptional artist who enriched the cultural fabric of our city through her extraordinary talent and creativity. We were proud to showcase Mary’s work during the latter months of 2023 and managed to sell a significant amount of Mary’s artwork. We were pleased to make the donation to The Hospice of the Good Shepherd, as it is a cause which held a special place in Mary’s heart,” commented Rick Nieto, owner of Art Box.

The Hospice of the Good Shepherd is a non-profit organisation dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate end-of-life care to patients and their families. The donation made by Art Box will go towards supporting the hospice’s various programmes and services, ensuring comfort and dignity for patients during their last stages.

“We would like to thank Rick, Liz and the team at Art Box for helping to raise £400 to support the Hospice through the sale of Mary’s pieces – and Mary’s family for allowing her artwork to appear in public.” commented community fundraiser Kelly Marks.

National Lottery grant to support Chesire Deaf Society’s work in North Wales

Chesire Deaf Society is celebrating recently receiving a grant of £248,708 from The National Lottery Community Fund, to employ specialist project workers and sessional bank staff to support D/deaf children, young people and their families in Wrexham and Flintshire. This will improve communication in the home and in social environments, as well as improving confidence, independence and socialisation, and reducing relationship breakdown and bullying.

Pam Craige, Hear Me! Project Coordinator at Deafness Support Network said: “Through the Hear Me! Project, we’re empowering deaf children, young people and their families to enhance communication and foster inclusion in our local community. The National Lottery’s generous funding is the key to making a positive impact and ensuring deaf children can thrive in the community for generations to come.”

Ruth Bates, Head of the north Wales region at The National Lottery Community Fund, said: "The National Lottery Community Fund is committed to supporting projects that bring people together in their communities, create stronger social connections and help develop new skills. This project certainly does this, and the thanks goes to National Lottery players who raise £30 million each week towards good causes like these across the UK.”

If you have charity news you would like to see included in the next issue, please send details to clara@ezpublishing.co.uk

Cheshire Football Association partners with sensory loss charity to host deaf awareness training workshop

Cheshire Football Association (CFA) in collaboration with Deafness Support Network (DSN) presented a unique opportunity for club officials and team managers to attend its first Deaf Awareness Training Workshop, hosted in partnership with Incus Training, on 18 January 2024. The free workshop was designed to equip participants with a comprehensive understanding of deafness-related terms and effective communication strategies. It took place at the Cheshire FA Headquarters in Northwich.

The workshop was led by Brian Cadwallader, the lead trainer at Incus Training, the training arm of DSN, which has offices in Northwich, Macclesfield and Chester. It aimed to enhance the knowledge of football communities on how to identify and communicate with individuals who are deaf. The event was open to all CFA club officials and team managers. Each participant received a certificate of attendance, recognising their commitment to advancing their understanding of deafness and promoting inclusivity within the football community.

Brian Cadwallader, from Incus Training, shared his perspective on the significance of the workshop. He added: “We are delighted to collaborate with Cheshire FA in delivering this crucial Deaf Awareness Training. By fostering understanding and effective communication, we aim to create a more inclusive football environment. Together with Cheshire FA, we are taking a step towards making football accessible to everyone, regardless of their hearing."

The

root of it

A TRANSFORMATIVE social mobility charity celebrating its 10th anniversary will support and educate even more young people across North East Wales in 2024

WeMindTheGap has received additional funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund to extend its WeDiscover, WeGrow and WeBelong provision from January 2024 onwards. The programmes are backed by Wrexham and Flintshire councils, and supported by Coleg Cambria.

Led by WeMindTheGap, employability and confidencebuilding sessions for participants – or ‘Gappies’ – take place at the Jade Jones Pavilion in Flint and the college’s Yale site in Wrexham.

With a vision to help those who experienced adverse childhood experiences or from challenging backgrounds to live their ‘best independent lives’, WeMindTheGap CEO Ali Wheeler said: “The programmes are vital opportunities for young people in Wrexham and Flintshire to gain and develop new skills, improve their confidence, and encourage them to think about what they need for a better future. Work placements and projects like this have changed and we are hearing from employers that some young people are further away from being ready for work than ever before, for a wide range of reasons, including low level mental health and social anxiety, and caring responsibilities at home.”

Alternative Roots is a project is aimed at raising awareness of issues associated with adoption. It is being developed by Damn Cheek Productions and writer Phil Freeman in partnership with Adoption Matters, a charity and adoption agency based in the North West.

Adoption Matters has found that there is very little curriculum time devoted to adoption in schools, despite there being a significant number of students who are adopted or who live in blended families. At present, should teachers wish to cover issues relating to adoption there are few suitable resources available. Designed to raise awareness around adoption and blended families, allowing children to be open and honest with peers about their background, this project will see schools deliver a vibrant selection of different scenes and scenarios. These will then be discussed and explored with the audience throughout the piece –very much in the style of Forum Theatre – making this truly interactive and experiential for all involved. The in-school production and workshop will be supported by online educational resource materials, currently being designed and developed with Adoption Matters.

Given the demands on the curriculum and teachers’ workloads, the charity intends to fully support its school partners, so that work in this field can continue after its involvement ends.

Across

Take five

Grab a cuppa and clear your mind of work for a short while with our puzzles.

1 Loose hood (4)

3 Finding (8)

9 Tell a story (7)

10 Speed music is played at (5)

11 Bitumen (3)

12 Denise van ___ : English actress (5)

13 Abatement (5)

15 Answer (5)

17 Avoided by social custom (5)

18 What you hear with (3)

19 Killer whales (5)

20 Concentrated on (7)

21 Smiling contemptuously (8)

22 Associate (4)

Down

1 Buildings (13)

2 Electrician (5)

4 Wildcat (6)

5 Branch of astronomy (12)

6 People in jail (7)

7 Amiably (4-9)

8 Troublemaker (6-6)

14 Fiasco (7)

16 Seabird (6)

18 Supporting frame used by an artist (5)

Crossword

If you would like to showcase your business by offering a competition prize for future issues, contact us to discuss options vicky@ezpublishing.co.uk

Check your answers

Classic Sudoku

Contributors

Thank you to the following for their contribution:

Articles:

Ed McGregor, English Heritage

Ginny Slade, English Heritage

Amelia Burke, E&M Glass

Charlie Burke, E&M Glass

Jon Roberts, Wrexham Lager

Sharon Roberts, Wrexham Lager

Maggie Austen, Zebra Marketing & Communications

Donna Okell, UK for Good

Martin Griffiths, Acton Safety

Gregory Macmillan, Atelier Sublime

Sasha Kenney, Wrexham University

ASH Waste Services

Katie, Skellon, Skellon Events

Jack Mitchell, Staff 86

Fredrica Reid, DTM Legal

Jonathan Simpson, Airbus

Jess McLeay, Dr Wax

Phil Strachan, Think Brand - Not Bland

Carole Shaw, Big Hand Brewery

Advertisers:

Active Childcare

Acton Safety

ASH Group Ltd

Business Network Chester

Digital Dragons Global

DTM Legal

EssentialsMAG

Geoff Robertshaw Ltd

Haines Watts

Hickory's Smokehouse Wrexham

Highstream Solutions

HR Dept

Knew Productions

Maid Perfect

Maidscando

MD Fitout

Richard Carr Consulting

Think Brand - Not Bland

Woodlands Marketing

Wrexham Chauffeurs Ltd

Xplore! Science

Zebra marketing & Communications

What’s in the

next edition?

Coming up next issue...

A quarterly magazine does make you whizz through the year and VOX issue 11 takes us through the summer months of 2024, covering June, July and August. There will be plenty of interesting articles, whether you are reading it by the pool or in the office, including:

• Going green – 8-16 June is the Great Big Green Week, the UK’s biggest ever celebration of community action to tackle climate change and protect nature. Find out what is happening locally

• Words of wisdom – as many people enjoy some time off over the summer, check out some of our reading and listening recommendations

• Summertime fun – check out the latest diary dates for networking, conferences and events over the summer, including our VOX networking in June 2024. The location and speaker are still to be confirmed, but its sure to be another session well worth attending.

We will also be including interviews, articles and advice from local businesspeople, along with more business news and charity updates.

Get in touch

Features

Every issue, we publish many articles by expert guest writers. Publishing external voices is a key part of our interaction with our readers. If you have any press releases or ideas for future issues we’d love to hear from you.

Events

Tell us about your upcoming business events, meeting and exhibitions to feature in our extensive Business What’s On Guide

Charity Updates & Business News

Share your charity updates and business news - VOX is your platform to share news and achievements with the local business community.

Send all submissions for consideration to: to Clara Hughes at clara@ezpublishing.co.uk

Advertising

All advertising enquiries please contact Vicky Heathfield: on 01978 855459 or email vicky@ezpublishing.co.uk

Advertising copy deadline 7 May 2024

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