ISSUE 71 JUNE/JULY 2011
THE NOTTINGHAMSHIRE STA R S AWARDS Experience Nottinghamshire's STARS Awards honour individuals and businesses that make an outstanding contribution to the leisure, culture, tourism and hospitality industries in the county. It provides a free platform for businesses to shout about their successes and aims encourage improvement in skills, training, attitude and retention within the industry. On Thursday 9 June, over 240 people from the tourism, hospitality, leisure and culture industries came together to celebrate excellence, commitment and dedication shown by individuals and teams. T H E W I N N E R S O F T H E 1 1 P R E S T I G I O U S AW A R D S W E R E : Excellence in customer service - Yvonne Stone, The Mill, Rufford Country Park Outstanding young manager - Alison Turner, Jurys Inn Nottingham Best new entrant - Lindsay Jones, Hodsock Priory, Blyth Best new venture - Debbie Bryan Studio & Shop, Nottingham Most promising student - Anthony Atkin, New College Nottingham Most promising trainee - Matthew Roe, G4 Inns, Beeston Best practice in training - Apprenticeships and Train to Gain Catering and Hospitality, New College Nottingham Team of the year - Rumbles @ the Lawn, Sutton in Ashfield Unsung hero - Ray Teece, www.nottingham21.co.uk Best ambassador for the industry - Paul Thacker, Park Plaza Nottingham Outstanding contribution to the industry - Riverside Group UK LTD
CONTENTS NOTTS STARS AWARDS
SEE PAGES 8-10
THE QUEEN’S AWARDS SEE PAGES 2-3 Winner Unsung hero Ray Teece www.nottingham21.co.uk
THE QUEEN’S AWARDS FOR ENTERPRISE The Queen's Awards for Enterprise are highly prestigious awards for outstanding achievement by UK businesses in the categories of Innovation, International Trade and Sustainable Development. The Queen's Award for Enterprise Promotion is awarded to individuals by HM The Queen, and are only given for the highest levels of excellence demonstrated in each category. They are judged to a demanding level and winners receive a number of benefits and worldwide recognition. Looking for the best local garage to carry out a service or repair? The Good Garage Scheme is an online database of local garages you can trust. Each garage listed under local regions of the UK, performs services to a strict Code of Conduct and will always have your best interests at heart. If your vehicle is under warranty, it can still be serviced by a Good Garage Scheme member without invalidating the warranty conditions, providing you with a list of recommended, reliable garages at the click of a mouse. www.goodgaragescheme.com
GOOD GARAGE SCHEME
SEE PAGES 13-15
FOCUS ON THE REGION’S LOCKSMITHS SEE PAGE 16
THE QUEEN’S AWARDS
ALTEK Europe Ltd
winner of a Queen’s Award for International Trade A Derbyshire business has been recognised for keeping the rest of the world waste-free by scooping a Queen’s Award for International Trade. ALTEK Europe Ltd designs and project manages products to support aluminium production and aluminium recycling, including products to reduce energy consumption and environmentally friendly solutions to minimise waste. Working with contacts abroad as well as at home, the company has been awarded for the strength of its export market, which has brought it a wealth of work.. ALTEK was formed in the 1980s and became known for creating the dross press for aluminum dross in the early nineties. In the following years, the company became a leader in Tilt Type Rotary Furnaces, merging with fellow business MDY in 2003 to become ALTEK-MDY. The Derbyshire branch was set up in 2007 to focus initially on Middle
Eastern markets, which have the largest concentration of energy intensive aluminium smelters and are ripe for the company's products and services. In just its first three years of trading, ALTEK-Europe Ltd's export earnings increased eight-fold from widespread markets and today, the majority of the firm's business stems from exports, trading in such areas as Australia, China, South East Asia, Europe and South Africa. ALTEK's engineers boast over 200 years of international experience between them in developing and refining solutions to dross and scrap recycling. Using advanced 3D design and modelling software, they design, manufacture and install dross press cooling equipment, electromagnetic 'air cooled' stirring systems for all furnaces, specialised RHINO cast steel containers for handling aluminium drosses, Tilt Type Rotary Furnaces and Furnace tending machines. The company's clients are some of the largest aluminium companies in the world, regularly dealing with such brand names as Alcoa, HYDRO
and Rio Tinto. ALTEK Europe Ltd is committed to providing all its customers with the best technology and knowledge to meet their needs through a deep understanding of their production processes, operation, equipment and operational cost and profitability requirements. Using its process and engineering expertise and experience to move towards the goal of zero waste in dross handling, the company has made a strong name for itself across the globe and is a worthy winner of a Queen’s Award for International Trade.
For more information contact ALTEK Europe Ltd on:
Telephone: 01332 813943 Web: www.ALTEK-al.com ALTEK Europe Ltd, Millhouse Business Centre, Station Road, Castle Donington, Derbyshire, DE74 2NJ
THE QUEEN’S AWARDS
CLOWNE ENTERPRISE When it comes to finding someone whose enterprise promotion deserves rewarding, you would be hard pressed to find anybody better suited than Clowne Enterprise's Paul Davies, who has been awarded the Queen’s Award for Enterprise Promotion. Paul has transformed the ex-coalmining town of Clowne in North Derbyshire from a poverty-stricken area to one booming in new business start-ups over the space of just seven years. He has coached, advised and supported over 450 individuals and businesses in the area and currently chairs the Local Enterprise Organisation (LEO) which has helped form over 400 new businesses and taught over 5000 school children from throughout 19 secondary schools, life enhancing enterprise skills. Paul gave up his role as Director of a consultancy firm in 2004, to concentrate on
coaching new businesses in North Derbyshire. He joined the Clowne project for what was set to be a two-year programme aimed at assisting new business start-ups get off the ground, with such assistance as business planning, financial training, sales and marketing. The scheme was so successful that it became a permanent company and was backed by public and corporate sponsorship to enable it to continue boosting the prospects of thousands of people in North Derbyshire in the midst of a recession. Clowne Enterprise aims to create an entrepreneurial hub through which the local enterprise culture can be fostered and developed. Helping start-ups and existing business models to thrive against the odds, Paul and his team have helped create a community of entrepreneurs carrying out such
winner of the Queen’s Award for Enterprise (Paul Davies)
skills as producing industrial art furniture, graffiti art and even worm farming!
Through visiting schools and holding competitions for the most imaginative business start-ups annually, Paul and the LEO Programme have helped to develop an entrepreneurial spirit amongst the county's youth. Paul has also been encouraging sustainable social enterprise initiatives within North Derbyshire, that do not rely on long term grants. Such an idea is LEO’s proposal to install a number of wind turbines in the county, which will generate money to fund local business developments and set the tone for a more eco-friendly area. wouldn't bet against them! For more information contact Clowne Enterprise on:
Mobile: 07973 522772 Email: info@clowne-enterprise.org.uk Clowne Enterprise, 2 Station Road, Clowne, Chesterfield, S43 4RW
GEMINI WEALTH MANAGEMENT LIMITED Sutton Coldfield - based Gemini Wealth Service Provider Management Limited have delivered on their promise to provide exceptional customer by of the Year being nominated in The Service Provider of the Year category at the Midlands Business Awards. Since its inception in December 2006, the company, which provides professional unbiased; financial products advice, financial planning, investment and tax efficiency advice to both private individuals and businesses has always had the goal to provide clients with an innovative 90-day valuation and review service, a promise recognised by the awards Although only five years old, Gemini Wealth Management Limited has not stopped growing; already they have added extra independent financial advisors to the team as well as two new divisions in Estate Planning and Accountancy services. What's more they have expanded operations further to develop their corporate offering as well as their services to individuals. When it comes to experience, you cannot fault Gemini Wealth Management for their directors each boast between 16 and 25 years experience in financial services. With a total of 30 staff including a fully qualified investment management team that manage and report on client portfolios to ensure best performance and
returns in line with client's requirements, you can be sure that you are receiving the very best advice. No stranger to award success following their 2009 award win for Best Business at The Business Awards, Gemini is an ambitious company that is always looking to develop. They have continual plans to update and develop their online presence to enhance the client experience and build on the client secure login facility, launched late last year. There are also plans to further develop their corporate offering and continue to work alongside professional partners including solicitors and accountancy practices whilst never compromising on the kind of outstanding service that has seen them receive numerous positive client testimonials.
FUTURE VISIONS CREATIVE DESIGN STUDIO Midlands Young Entrepreneur Most thirteen-year-olds don't even know what they want to do when they leave school, of the Year Finalist let alone start-up a successful business which is marketing can be. just what one Rubery-based entrepreneur did, receiving an award from the prestigious Institute of Nathan's own knowledge of the Directors just 3 years later, plus a further nomination web is unrivalled and he is able to for a Midlands Business Awards eight years later; his offer bespoke websites, built from company continuing to go from strength to scratch including hosting, SEO strength. and streaming facilities, meeting the high standards he has set out Nathan Littleton, the brains behind web-design in his 105-Point Technical company Future Visions Creative Design Studio, set up Excellence List, ensuring that you his company in 2003. Run solely by Nathan, the receive value for money. In fact, business relies on freelancers to carry out its larger when it comes to the web, Nathan is living proof that it projects with Nathan himself involved at the heart of can help your company grow when utilised effectively every client's work. so make sure you contact Future Visions Creative Design Studio to catapult your business into a new Originally using his skills as a school-time hobby, age. Nathan quickly realised that he had a viable business proposition which could help local businesses. Future For more information contact Visions Creative Design Studio was formally set up, Future Visions Creative Design Studio on: offering web design, SEO, social media, web hosting and marketing amongst other New Media support to SMEs. Email: mail@future-visions.co.uk
Telephone: 0121 288 3688
Recognising the ever-changing nature of the web, Nathan places a large emphasis on personal and professional development to continue innovating and moving his business forward. A recent service that Nathan has launched with resounding success is the company email template. Email signatures have been For more information contact around for a long time but the idea of a professionally Gemini Wealth Management Limited on: designed company email template is a typical example of Nathan’s innovation.
Telephone: 0121 354 2700 Fax: 0121 354 1363
Email: info@gemini-wm.com Gemini Wealth Management Limited, Gemini House, 71 Park Road, Sutton Coldfield, B73 6BT
Many people see emails simply as a way of getting a message from one person to another but when used correctly. it is Nathan's theory that it can also be a useful marketing tool. Already 65 per cent of his work comes via recommendations from existing clients who have heard just how successful and proftable email
SHROPSHIRE BUSINESS AWARDS
Telford Laundry
winner of the best Green Business. During a time where companies are being urged to become more environmentally friendly, it is refreshing to find a company that has been committed to being green for many years. In recognition of the firm's Green Achievers Policy, Telford Laundry has picked up a Shropshire Business Award for the best Green Business.
business servicing the entire Midlands region. With 59 staff providing a laundry and linen hire service to hospitality clients, operating from a 10,000 square foot factory using over 50 cubic metres of water per day and 15,000 kwh of gas and electricity, it is important that the business has steps to lower its carbon footprint. As well as recycling all waste material, the company saves energy by switching off appliances when they are not in use, monitoring vehicle fuel consumption, printing double sided on all documents, using water saving devices in toilets,using biodegradable and eco-friendly products, selling on redundant supplies and supporting local charities wherever possible.
First registered in 1988, Telford Laundry is a family owned laundry and textile rental
Telford Laundry has already achieved Silver status for the Green Achiever scheme but has already
put in plans to become even more environmentally-friendly in the coming years. The company has pledged to develop its range of materials recycled to include plastic film and fluorescent lamps, use energy efficient light bulbs, source a renewable energy provider, and source more eco-friendly products that have not been tested on animals. Telford Laundry operate a multi shift operation and can cope with even the largest of hotels of over 300 bedrooms. With two x 4 roll ironing lines , 8 washer extractors and a tunnel batch washer, the business is able to work with regional and national laundries providing local service for national chain customers in the Midlands and Wales areas. As a member of the National Laundry Group,
you can be sure that you are receiving service stability and security every time you book Telford Laundry. With a focus on delivering exceptional customer service at all times, working with Telford Laundry with leave you environmentally conscious and satisfied that you are receiving the very best service money can buy.
For more information contact Telford Laundry on:
Telephone: 01952 588020 Fax: 01952 587851 Web: www.telfordlaundry.com Email: enquiries@telfordlaundry.com Telford Laundry, B3 Stafford Park, Telford, TF3 3AY
SHROPSHIRE BUSINESS AWARDS WOODCHESTER KITCHENS
celebrating the 21st anniversary of one of the most trusted firms in The Midlands
When Chris Parrish stopped making guitars to concentrate on family and a career in woodwork , he would never have dreamed that he would be celebrating the 21st anniversary of a business that has evolved to become one of the most trusted firms in the Midlands. Chris set up Woodchester Kitchens in 1990 after previously running businesses in restoring period houses and furniture. Designing aesthetic kitchen living spaces was always his passion and 21 years later, he works together with five experienced staff creating and installing kitchens, bathroom furniture, cabinets, wardrobes, floors and all kinds of woodwork for interiors.
What is unique about Woodchester Kitchens is that their products are truly bespoke. Chris will personally visit the client in their home and talk through their requirements in fine detail. This includes discussions about the type of space he has to work with, the facilities required and the best materials for the job. Chris will then return to his workshop and aim to get the project completed as quickly as possible while taking time to pay attention to detail and ensuring that all jobs are created professionally for the long term.
deliver the end product dreamed of by the client - they will even bring along a recommended builder if the project requires building alterations. In a nutshell, Woodchester Kitchens ensures that you receive the very best, most cost-effective service at all times.
JR SLEE BUILDING AND JOINERY CONTRACTORS LTD finalist for the Employer To say that 2011 has been a successful year for Shrewsburybased building and joinery contractors JR SLEE would be an understatement. Already the company has enjoyed its fair share of prestigious award success including Small Employer of the Year (highly commended) in National Apprenticeship Awards, and Best Community Building (winner), Best Innovative and Sustainable Building (highly commended), and Best New Housing (finalist) in the LABC Building Excellence Awards. Now, the company can add the Shropshire Chamber of Commerce Business Awards to its tally, for which it has been named a finalist for the Employer of the Year accolade in the apprenticeships category. JR SLEE specialise in sympathetic restorations and renovations, new dwellings, refurbishment works, extensions and alterations in both the commercial and domestic sectors, and for local authorities. JR SLEE have also carried out works for The National Trust and English Heritage, working on buildings of great architectural importance such as Shrewsbury Abbey, Attingham Park and Dudmaston Estate and winning awards from the Shrewsbury Civic Society and Design & Heritage.
For more information contact Throughout their 21 years, J.R. SLEE has continued to promote Woodchester Kitchens on: employing apprentices, ensuring specialist skills within the
Telephone: 01453 886411
construction industry continue into the future. The company is proud of its commitment to the apprenticeship scheme and is dedicated in ensuring that every apprentice receives the best support and supervision from everybody within the company.
Web: www.woodchesterkitchens.co.uk Woodchester Kitchens, Unit, 18A Chalford Industrial Estate, Chalford, Stroud, Gloucestershire GL6 8NT Many of JR SLEE’s apprentices have also achieved prestigious
of the Year awards, with the most recent apprentices achieving exceptionally high standards. Joe Price, the company's carpentry and joinery apprentice is representing the UK in the World Skills Olympic Squad for Carpentry, as well as winning the Advanced Apprentice of the Year for 2011. Scott Jones, the company's bricklayer apprentice, has also achieved very high standards winning this year’s Blockley's Student of the Year Silver Trowel. JR SLEE was set up as a company in 1989 by Rodney Slee and they are now celebrating their 21st anniversary, employing over 20 staff including Rodney's own daughter. Helen, who joined the company in 1997. J.R. SLEE only employ first class tradesmen and are committed in ensuring they deliver a professional, reliable and quality service with excellent working relationships with their clients. numerous positive client testimonials. For more information contact JR SLEE on:
Telephone: 01743 365113 Fax: 01743 350462 Web: www.jr-slee.co.uk J. R. SLEE Building & Joinery Contractors Ltd, The Builders Yard, Pump Lane, Racecourse Lane, Bicton Heath, Shrewsbury, SY3 5BL
Woodchester Kitchens makes sure that not only your kitchen or bathroom works for you, but that your budget works for you too. They will discuss with you the costeffective methods of delivering exactly what you desire without compromising on quality. It is this personal and friendly approach to customer service that has helped the business enjoy a lot of repeat business over the 21 years of trading as well as attracting new business through multiple word of mouth recommendations. Based in the Cotswolds, Woodchester Kitchens takes on a variety of local work from within the Midlands while being happy to travel further afield as required. With no job too big or small, the company tailors its service around each individual customer and will stop at nothing until they
HEREFORD UNITED
providing the opportunity to promote your company’s service or success
What better place to relax – entertain or even broker a business deal than on the sporting stage of a football club?
“Coming to a game is a great day out. For a business it can be the chance to relax and network away from the pressures and formality of the office, it can be the chance to reward or say thanks to colleagues or clients and it can also be an opportunity to promote your own company’s service or success,” explained Tim Russon.
For more information about hospitality or sponsorship opportunities with Hereford United:
Telephone: 01432 276666 E-mail: club@herefordunited.co.uk
Hereford United successfully launched their new hospitality programme at the start of the season and are now looking to the future and new horizons. The club, which has a new Chairman in David Keyte and Vice-Chairman in Tim Russon, are working hard to embrace the corporate world and are trying to bring business and sport together for the benefit of all. On top of their Golden Partner Scheme, which offers a season long package of hospitality, sponsorship and advertising the club are keen to welcome more local businesses to their Edgar Street ground to promote, reward or celebrate their own enterprise. The club have refurbished their hospitality rooms and now have three pitch side suites named after
three of the club’s greatest players – Colin Addison, John Charles and Terry Paine. The match day experience can kick-off hours before Hereford’s big game. All the rooms have a full SKY TV package, so on a Saturday you could start by watching the big premiership battle of the day, and then enjoy a drink and a meal before taking your seat in the stand to cheer on the Bulls. After the game you can chose and get to meet your Hereford Man of the Match.
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Dancers a family-run clothes store that has stood the test of time A new era has dawned in the Black Country town of Halesowen – but a family-run clothes store has stood the test of time having been a permanent fixture for over 130 years Dancers is managed by Mike Dancer and his son Dave, who are fourth and fifth generation descendants of the business’s founder John Dancer who started the business in 1880 as a boot and shoe shop in Lye. In 1884, John and his bride, Sarah, moved to a shop in High Street, Halesowen, from where the business continued to grow. Hard work and frugal living led to further branches in Kidderminster, Bromsgrove, Cradley Heath, Tenbury Wells and Ludlow. Today however, only the shop
in Halesowen still remains In 1889, the business purchased the site of its current premises on the corner of Peckingham Street and Hagley Street and erected a three storey-building for the shop from where the stock was distributed by horse and lorry. Through the years, the family business has been passed on through John’s son Wilfred and later his son Wesley, who was born above the shop in 1913. In 1967, as a part of the Halesowen redevelopment, the old shop was demolished to make space
working in the shop on Saturdays four years ago, and later becoming a fulltime member of staff, assisting in the daily running of the business. Both Mike and Dave also work alongside Mike’s sister, Janet Duerden. They sell a range of menswear, ladieswear, schoolwear, accessories and gifts, with the company's own range of suits being available for hire also, whilst priding themselves on offering a personal service to each valued customer, many of whom have now become friends. After seeing many changes, Dancers continues to remain true to its roots. For further information please contact Dancers on:
Telephone: 0121 550 1237 Web: www.dancersltd.co.uk Email: sales@dancersltd.co.uk Dancers, Peckingham Street, Halesowen, B63 3AR
for the new premises to be built on the same spot. Mike began his career helping his father, Wesley, in the shop at Christmas and on Saturdays in the early 1960s. For Mike, there is a real sense of pride that his son Dave is now following in the family footsteps having started
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GAMLEN TABLETING LTD SHORTLISTED FOR A MEDILINK EAST MIDLANDS INNOVATION BUSINESS AWARD When it comes to tableting, Nottingham business Gamlen Tableting Ltd are one step ahead of the competition after being shortlisted for a Medilink East Midlands Business Award in the category of Innovation. The nomination is all down to the company's brand new tablet press, which is the world's first benchtop, computer-controlled tablet machine. This unique tablet offers almost unlimited applications in the pharmaceutical industry as well as potential in markets such as the nucleur, medical diagnostics, ceramics and nanomolecular industries. The true value of the tablet lies in its ability to make a compact under very tightly controlled conditions at a specified compaction pressure or thickness; a process that normally requires a large machine costing thousands of pounds.
The press can also be used to study repeated compaction events on the same sample. The high degree of control produces tablets with better uniformity than is possible using a conventional tablet press, meaning the machine can be used to make small tablets and evaluate very small amounts of material as little as 10mg, making it specifically relevant for micro-tableting requirements. According to Michael Gamlen, this nomination for a Medilink East Midlands Business Award will provide Gamlen Tableting Ltd with a 'springboard' on which to launch the product. He said: "This nomination will provide us with a platform from which we can exploit its great potential in the UK and global pharmaceutical markets. I truly believe that the Gamlen tablet press can shorten pharmaceutical development life cycle times and improve quality control of tableted products. Every pharmaceutical company in the world would benefit form using this tablet."
The innovation is the brainchild of Managing Director Michael Gamlen, who boasts 35 years experience in the tableting industry. With support from such sources as the Bioscience iNet, MediLink East Midlands and UK Trade and Investment, the tablet is set to revolutionise the way industries use tablets forever.
For more information contact Gamlen Tableting Ltd on:
Tel:
Web: www.compressiblity.com Email: info@compressibility.com 0115 9124271 Gamlen Tableting Ltd, Pennyfoot Street, Fax: 0115 9124278 Nottingham, NG1 1GF
CERT OCTAVIAN SUCCESS THROUGH PEOPLE, CUSTOMER SERVICES AWARD Supply chain experts Cert Octavian are celebrating after coming through a difficult period for the business and returning to profitability despite reduced revenue. This is attributed to delivering a turnaround strategy that has been largely supported by its team of hardworking, motivated staff. It is not easy to keep over 410 staff happy but that is just what Cert Octavian have
done, offering training schemes and job swaps to their team, resulting in a workforce that enjoys going to work each day and is totally committed to delivering exceptional customer service.. The opportunities that the logistics company has available to its staff and the outstanding customer service they offer - which has seen an increase in clients of 40% in the last year alone - has been
recognised with nominations for Leicestershire Business Awards in both the Success Through People and Customer Service categories. Managing Director, Anthony Finlayson-Green, understands that if your workforce is happy your clients will be happy. Internal and external training courses are offers, as well as providing cross training opportunities to any member of staff who feels they would benefit from a job swap within the company. By educating everyone that they can offer their transferable skills to other departments, employees at their eight Service Centres have driven the company to a wealth of new business opportunities. Cert Octavian began trading in 1986, holding wine in their underground storage facilities for nationwide clients. Since then, they have expanded their logistics services to include clothing, personal care, cosmetics and electronic devices, although 40% of their trade is still within the drinks industry. As a result, the company has built up an integrated transport network and is capable of delivering bulk items within 24-48 hours. With a modern fleet of vehicles based throughout the UK and contracts with eight haulage firms, the company leaves no space of the UK market uncovered. The customer service skills and training taught to its staff has enabled Cert Octavian to retain a number of high profile contracts over several years with such established customers as Marks
and Spencer, Coty and Treasury Wine Estates EMEA (formerly Foster’s EMEA). By offering everyone a committed, dedicated personal service, Cert Octavian has increased the number of its national customers over the last couple of years, seeing the attitude and work rate of staff increasing ten-fold with the opportunity of training and qualifications. Today Cert Octavian has adopted a position at the forefront of its market, dominating the UK logistics scene. Few companies have invested in their workforce as much as Cert Octavian and fewer still have seen the proven results that have attracted a host of new clients and contracts. The secret to the company's success lies not only in its dedicated team of staff but in the belief and faith of the company's directors and clients. For more information contact Cert Octavian on:
Telephone: 01455 205 050 Fax: 01455 559 219 Email: info@certoctavian.co.uk Web: www.certoctavian.co.uk Cert Octavian plc, Coventry Road, Magna Park, Lutterworth, Leicestershire, LE17 4XH
THE NOTTINGHAMSHIRE STA R S AWARDS IGLOO ANNEXE BEST NEW VENTURE Nottingham's Igloo Annexe was only completed in September last year but is already a finalist for the Best New Venture title at the Nottinghamshire STARS Awards. The boutique hostel was set up to complement its sister business, Igloo Hostel, which is currently celebrating 17 years of trading
For more information contact Igloo Annexe on:
Telephone: 0115 9475250 Web: www.igloohostel.co.uk Igloo Annexe, 110 Mansfield Road, Nottingham, NG1 3HL
The Igloo Annexe is unique to the city centre of Nottingham. Igloo Hostel used to primarily target backpackers and tourists but as the appeal of cost effective hostel accommodation grew, it adapted to suit families, businesspeople and school groups from all over the world, many which remain regular visitors. Igloo Annexe runs alongside the contemporary venue, offering affordable self-catering accommodation that doesn't sacrifice quality. With dormitories available from £15 per person, per night and Annexe private rooms from £18-£22 per person, per night, Igloo Annexe boasts a fullyequipped self-catering kitchen, free tea and coffee, top quality washrooms, laundry facilities and entertainment facilities. All rooms are equipped with memory foam mattresses and pillows, desk and chair, sofa, TV and Wi-Fi and with the walls decorated with work from local artists, Igloo Annexe is a relaxing and inviting place to stay whilst on your travels.
activities, staff are always on hand to assist. With a games room that offers regular pool competitions, quiz nights and a garden for when the weather is nice, Igloo Annexe boasts a unique social factor that can help you stay entertained and meet new people.
Visitors are free to structure their days as they wish but for those looking to pack their days with
Igloo Annexe and its sister site Igloo Hostel take care in the community in which they cater. Just a ten-
minute walk from Nottingham city centre and close to Victoria Bus Station, its location is central and convenient. With an ethos for always being environmentally aware, both premises remain ecofriendly at all times using chemical free cleaning products, recycled paper and plastics as well as recycling and green disposal of waste, to remain a modern and green company.
LA ROCK RESTAURANT
RUFFORD MILL
BEST TRAINEE AND AMBASSADOR.
OUTSTANDING CUSTOMER SERVICE.
Nottingham's La Rock Restaurant may not be opening until July but when it does, you can be sure that you will be receiving the very best service money can buy, for a member of the company's management team has already won a Nottinghamshire Stars Award for Best Trainee and Ambassador.
There is nothing more important on your wedding day than ensuring that everything goes off without any problems and all your guests are made to feel welcome, which is why popular wedding destination Rufford Mill is delighted to have won an award at Nottinghamshire Stars, for their outstanding customer service.
Matthew Roe has been working for La Rock's parent company G4 Inns for five years after originally joining as a kitchen hand and has since moved his way up the ranks to be appointed on the management team of this new venture. Winning for his passion, enthusiasm and determination to succeed at the highest level, Matthew will run La Rock Restaurant alongside head chef and company owner Nick Gillespie when it opens its doors to the public in a couple of months. La Rock Restaurant caters for a sophisticated class of diners. Serving up modern British food with a contemporary French twist, the venue will specialise in Sunday lunches and a la carte menus. Guests are free to relax in an upmarket environment; hanging chandeliers, granite and green oak tables and a friendly, welcoming aura helping you relax as soon as you walk through the door. Dishes will be created using the freshest ingredients, with fruit, vegetables and meat locally sourced. Operating alongside the restaurant will be an internal bar stocked full of house wines and more eclectic, upmarket tastes. This will be the first time Matthew has worked in an assistant manager role after
gaining managerial experience in a number of businesses under the G4 Inns umbrella. However, together with Nick, he is determined to get it right and provide a top location for people to enjoy a quiet, relaxing meal by intricate attention to detail. "We are going to have a real focus on our customers' needs," explained Nick. "Our menu will change daily and weekly, replacing one dish with another until we find our customer's most popular dishes. We want to introduce a dining experience like no other to Nottingham, where customers can enjoy the highest quality food served in the most welcoming of atmospheres."
Rufford Mill offers a stylish country venue for civil weddings and civil partnership celebrations at the heart of Rufford Country Park, a historic estate in the Nottinghamshire Dukeries, just a few miles east of famous Sherwood Forest. Hosting conferences during the day and private functions during the evening, Rufford Mill has long remained one of the most popular venues in the Midlands for celebrations, with Nottinghamshire Stars nominee Yvonne Stone at the heart of the business for two years.
Yvonne is the Assistant Catering Manager/Wedding Coordinator at Rufford Mill's Talbot Suite. Her role as Wedding With such top local talent as Matthew and Nick on board Co-ordinator sees her take on a number of tasks from already, La Rock Restaurant certainly looks like becoming persuading clients Rufford Mill can host the perfect bespoke wedding to their exact requirements, to planning a huge success story for the region. the event itself, organising food, delivering customer For more information contact service at all times and remaining calm under pressurising circumstances. Winning for 'delivering a superb level of La Rock Restaurant on: service,' Yvonne can be depended upon to always deliver quality, customer-focused receptions.
Telephone: 0115 9399833
La Rock Restaurant, Rufford, founded in the 12th century by Cistercian monks, 4 Bridge Street, Sandiacre, acts as the perfect venue for your wedding; a beautiful site, Nottingham, NG10 5QT steeped in history. Hosting receptions in the Talbot Suite,
the venue seats 150 guests or 80 for banquet-style services. With Rufford Abbey, a lake, bluebell woods and the formal gardens surrounding the Mill, there will photo-opportunities aplenty for your special day. Food and drink can be supplied to suit all your requirements with the in-house bar serving up a range of canapes and champagne. Rufford Mill also provide a unique hosting service to keep your guests informed of events on the day and ensure that everyone is having a good time.
For more information contact Rufford Mill on:
Telephone: 01623 821310 Rufford Mill, The Abbey, Rufford Country Park, Ollerton, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG22 9DF
THE NOTTINGHAMSHIRE STA R S AWARDS CROWNE PLAZA NOTTINGHAM OUTSTANDING YOUNG MANAGER. Crowne Plaza Nottingham prides itself on its dedicated, attentive staff and the outstanding customer service it offers, which is why it is proud to have its very own Daniel Price nominated for a Nottinghamshire Stars Award for Outstanding Young Manager.
For more information contact Crowne Plaza Nottingham on:
Telephone: 0871 423 4876 Crowne Plaza Hotel, Wollaton Street, Nottingham, NG1 5RH
Daniel, who only joined the company in November 2009, was nominated by Crowne Plaza general manager David Clements in recognition of the enthusiasm and passion that he puts into his job. Now 23-years-old, Daniel has always been working within the hospitality industry but has recently shone in his role at Crowne Plaza Nottingham, motivating and leading the entire group of staff at the company. "Daniel is a great inspiration to everyone," commented David Clements. "He always goes out of his way to help customers, makes everyone feel welcome and has real enthusiasm for the job he does. He is a fantastic talent leading his team from the front by being visible and approachable passing on his knowledge he is an excellent guy to work with." Daniel's nomination is just another chapter in the overwhelming success story of Crowne Plaza Nottingham, which was voted Hotel of the Year just three years ago. Situated in the heart of Nottingham, close to the railway station and major attractions like the Trent Arena, the 27-year-old hotel offers a relaxing place for visitors to the city to stay as well as
first class conferencing facilities. With 210 bedrooms and 17 conferencing rooms able to hold from 10-425 people, Crowne Plaza has both the space and modcons of a large, national venue as well as the friendly, personal, approach to greeting all customers that you would usually only find in small establishments. The hotel is laden with attractions; from the first floor tree-lined atrium to the full on site leisure facilities and continental Lace Maker restaurant, it is an ideal place to visit for business or pleasure. With events
tailored / adapted to suit the needs of any business and large car parking facilities, your business event can really go off in style. Daniel's nomination for Nottinghamshire Stars award further reinforces the pride that the hotel takes in all its staff members. Delivering outstanding customer service at all times, their entire business is built around providing a pleasurable and stress-free stay for all visitors.
GALLERIES OF JUSTICE MUSEUM
RUTLAND SQUARE HOTEL
UNSUNG HERO AND BEST NEW ENTRANT
EXCELLENCE IN CUSTOMER SERVICE
The Galleries of Justice Museum is celebrating after two members of staff were announced finalists for a Nottinghamshire Stars award. The tourism awards, designed to reward those organisations in Nottinghamshire offering exceptional quality service, has revealed that Costume Interpretor Stephen Dennis and Marketing and Business Development Coordinator Faye Rollinson are finalists for the Unsung Hero and Best New Entrant awards respectively
Nowhere is customer service more crucial than in the hospitality industry which is why the Rutland Square Hotel is celebrating after having one of their workers nominated for a Nottinghamshire Stars Award for Excellence In Customer Service. Duty Manager Gemma Bolsher joined the hotel in 2004 as a food and beverage assistant and has since risen to managerial ranks after striking a chord with customers. Nominated by her manager Henrik Jesperson, Gemma regularly goes beyond the call of duty to assist customers in need.
Both Stephen and Faye were initially nominated by the museum itself and have since beaten off stiff competition from rival Nottingham tourism businesses to reach the finals stage. As a Costume Interpretor, Stephen leads tours round the museum but his work doesn't stop there. For he also steps in to play the Villainous Sheriff of Nottingham at the Sheriff’s Medieval Banquets as well as covering the museum's Duty Manager, meaning he is often left to lock up the museum at nights and attend to its upkeep, working around the clock. Since Stephen joined the museum eight years ago, he has also been a key member of the education team, attracting young people to the
museum, playing a large part in its NCCL (National Centre for Citizenship and the Law) initiative to get children and young people out of crime and teach them what the consequences of crime were in the middle ages. Faye has also performed outstandingly since joining the business eight months ago as their Business Development Executive. Since then, she too has been played a large part in NCCL, meeting headteachers and virtuing the benefits of visiting the museum to young people aged 518. So successful she has been in her role, that she has recently taken on the additional role of business development and marketing and for the museum. As a non-profit, charity organisation, such influence has been of great benefit to the Galleries of Justice Museum. The popular attraction, which is based at Nottingham's old courthouse and goal, was used to hold prisoners before extradition to Australia in medieval times and boasts five underground floors. Children, the public and business people have the opportunity to explore the old dungeon, gallery and even visit the new Robin Hood exhibition, in dedication to the famous marauder who once stayed at the dungeon. The site is also one of the UK's most haunted places and groups can take advantage of night-time walks where they can sense the presence of a real poltergeist. There is no doubt that the Galleries of Justice Museum has been a key factor to Nottinghamshire's recent tourist boost, which is testament to the hard work and passion of its staff, surely making it a worthy finalist for two Nottinghamshire Stars Awards.
For more information on daily tours and evening events contact Galleries of Justice Museum on:
Telephone: 0115 952 0555 Fax: 0115 993 9828 Web: www.galleriesofjustice.org.uk Email: info@galleriesofjustice.org.uk Galleries of Justice Museum, The Lace Market, Nottingham, NG1 1HN
"Just the other day we had a customer who was upset about their situation at home and Gemma sat with them to put them at ease and cheer them up. She has helped nervous brides reach their weddings on time and will even go out to the shops to buy certain toiletries for customers that are in need of particular items," explained Henrik. Gemma is just one in a team of staff dedicated to providing exceptional customer service at all times within the hotel, which is part of the wider Forestdale Hotels group. The Rutland Hotel is situated in the very heart of Nottingham, right next to Nottingham Castle and just a brief journey away from such attractions as Sherwood Forest and the city's vibrant night life. A converted warehouse that opened in 1989, the Rutland Square Hotel boasts 87 bedrooms and eight conference rooms, able to accommodate from 5-200 people for weddings, parties, businesses meetings and other special
events. Catering is provided to suit the occasion with visitors able to choose their own buffet items which are freshly prepared in the hotel kitchen. Food is a major attraction of the Rutland Square Hotel for as well as providing breakfast in bed and evening meal facilities, the venue's resident bar is open 24 hours and it also hosts a pudding club once a month. This offers an opportunity to meet local people from within the area and taste test a number of homegrown puddings, many of which are added to the restaurant's main menu. With such a lot going on within Rutland Hotel and the local area and such attentive, sympathetic and caring staff always on hand, the venue is the ideal place to stay for business and pleasure and as Gemma's award nomination proves they boast some of the most dedicated workers in the business!
For more information contact The Rutland Hotel on:
Telephone: 0115 941 1114 Fax: 0115 941 0014 Web: www.forestdale.com E-mail: rutland.square@forestdale.com The Rutland Hotel, St James Street, Nottingham, NG1 6FJ
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NEW GABLES HOTEL AND NEW FORESTER PUB
THORESBY HALL HOTEL AND SPA
TEAM OF THE YEAR AT THE NOTTINGHAMSHIRE STARS AWARDS BEST NEW ENTRANT - NOTTINGHAMSHIRE STARS AWARDS Proving that a job in hospitality can be a long-lasting career, the New Gables Hotel and New Forester Pub has been nominated for Team of the Year at the Nottinghamshire Stars Awards. The businesses train their staff to NVQ level, in order to ensure they have all the qualifications required to succeed in a lengthy career in the hospitality industry and their training scheme has earned them a nomination from their NVQ assessors Charnwood. New Gables Hotel and the New Forester Pub are specialist gay venues, welcoming people of all sexualities and backgrounds. Purchased ten years ago by current owner Debbie and her partner Maria, the New Forester Pub operates alongside the New Gables Hotel as an external building. Serving up a range of beers, wines and spirits, as well as traditional pub food and bar snacks, the New Forester puts on regular entertainment to keep its guests amused. From discos to fancy dress nights, karaoke and theme nights, the pub even has 80s sensation Toyah Wilcox performing live on its official tenth anniversary party - with all events raising money for local charities.
The New Gables Hotel acts an ideal residence for visitors of the New Forester Pub and those visiting Nottingham. Just a short walk away from the city centre and close to the Trent Arena and city's entertainment hub, New Gables Hotel is a safe and inviting place to stay. Recently refurbished with the option of breakfast in bed and a double-ended jacuzzi, the hotel was only taken over by Debbie and Maria one year ago but is already proving a sustainable business and a popular location. Designed with the interests of every guest in mind, the luxurious but affordable hotel fits all beds with anti-allergy sheets, boasts very modern furniture, fully en-suite bathrooms and such mod-cons as free wifi, televisions and Sky Sports. With an all inclusive garden to take advantage of as well as a number of theme nights such as Murder Mystery and trans-weekends, New Gables Hotel is an ideal location for everyone to enjoy.
Thoresby Hall Hotel and Spa is no stranger to the Nottinghamshire Stars Awards after previously entering the last two years, becoming a finalist for Team of the Year and taking an award for Excellent Guest Service last year. This year is no different and the popular tourist venue has once again reached the finals of the tourism awards with Hannah Chamberlain a finalist for the Best New Entrant award. Hannah joined the company in August last year as a Leisure Assistant after previously working for Walt Disney and has since been an instant hit with staff and customers alike. Despite arriving with very little experience in activitybased adult only holidays, she took to training very quickly and has been a 'breath of fresh air' to the company, according to Leisure Manager Gavin Short. Thoresby Hall Hotel and Spa specialise in adult only holidays where guests can choose from a range of fun, leisure and well being facilities to keep them occupied. From dancing, theatre and fencing to sport or even relaxing in the hotel's resident World Spa which offers
sensuous treatments from around the world. When questioned, guests at the hotel stated they wanted treatments that focused on head, hands and feet and that is exactly what Thoresby Hall accommodates. Guests are free to choose as little or as many activities as they wish, including a stroll through the landscaped grounds to discover a secret Victorian Rose Garden, splendid woodland and herbaceous garden. A host of live entertainment is also available from The Thoresby Players - a team of talented actors and actresses that bring the History of the Old House alive through a series of vignettes talks and tours. With a total of 221 bedrooms and three restaurants serving up Italian, double rosette a la carte and traditional food, this Grade One listed building provides the ideal environment in which to enjoy a relaxing break away.
For more information contact New Gables Hotel on:
Telephone: 0115 9857764 Web: www.newgableshotel.co.uk New Gables Hotel, 1 Hucknall Road, Nottingham, NG5 1AE or New Foresters Pub on:
For more information contact Thoresby Hall Hotel on:
Telephone: 01623 821033
Telephone: 0115 958 0432
Web: www.worldspa.co.uk Email: spa@worldspa.co.uk Thoresby Hall, Thoresby Park, Nr.Ollerton, Nottinghamshire. NG22 9WH
Web: www.newforesters.com New Foresters Pub, 18 St. Anns Street, Nottingham, NG1 3LX
THE SALUTATION INN
SIAM CORNER THAI MARINA
RUNNER-UP - THE PUB OF THE YEAR 2010 AT CAMRA AWARDS
TASTE OF STAFFORDSHIRE GOOD FOOD AWARD
A friendly village pub in the heart of Gloucestershire has been named runner-up for the Pub of The Year 2010 accolade at this year's CAMRA awards. The Salutation Inn, nestled in the beautiful countryside of Ham village, has been hailed by the official real ale regulators as one of the best pubs in the country. The award was judged on the variety and quality of the pub's ales, how well it treats its guests and how strongly it values CAMRA's core ideals.
For an exquisite taste of Thailand, there is no better place to visit than Taste of Staffordshire Good Food Award-recommended Siam Corner in Barton Marina. The restaurant, which prides itself on being able to offer a warm, relaxing eating environment with an indulgent ambience, came third in the search for Staffordshire's best non-European Restaurant of the Year.
Sourcing local ales from Bristol and Gloucester, The Salutation Inn regularly changes the drinks it has on offer, stocking beers from such regular breweries as Severn Vale, Cotswold Spring and Bristol Beer Factory. As well as endorsing the house cider, Gwatkins Yarlington Mill, The Salutation also encourages guests to suggest a new ale and is happy to house guests ales from further afield to meet demand. The actual building dates back to the 1700s and is a Berkeley Estate-owned premises currently run by husband and wife team Don and Sue Dunbabin. After being regular drinkers at The Salutation Inn, they took over in 2007 when it went up for lease and have spent the last 4 years maintaining the pub's friendly local values and enhancing its reputation as one of the country's best pubs. A popular stop off point for hikers and cyclists, The Salutation Inn is one of few pubs to still boast an off sales serving hatch to service it's enclosed garden area. Local drinkers regularly return to The Salutation Inn, which has long been the centre of the community in Ham village. A skittles alley / function room was added in the early nineties, for which drinkers are not charged to play, the inn now also offers an idyllic venue for private functions and business or conferencing events. Holding 80-100 people at any one time, the skittles area is available for hire when not in use.
The Salutation Inn upholds the same values it has in sourcing its ale when it comes to finding ingredients for serving food. the pub offers a lunch time menu between 12-2pm Tuesday-Sunday where guests can enjoy traditional pub food like steak pie, faggots, ham and so on at reasonable prices. Crusty rolls are available at most times and their special cheese and onion rolls have become a draw within the local area .
One of a chain of five restaurants, the Thai Marina is the latest addition to a group that began in Derby thirteen years ago, branching out into a 45-mile radius throughout the Midlands. Since opening, the Thai Marina has been indulging the general public and providing business lunches to people from all over the country, serving up the finest authentic Thai food.
For more information contact The Salutation Inn on:
Telephone: 01453 810 284 The Salutation Inn, Ham, Berkeley, Gloucestershire, GL13 9QH Web: www.salutationinn.biz
Set in favourable surroundings, the Thai Marina boasts experienced, highly skilled kitchen staff alongside front of house employees who are attentive, warm and welcoming. Authentic Thai artifacts and furniture adorn the restaurant interior, creating an exotic and unique atmosphere. So well recognised are the Siam Corner group of restaurants throughout the Midlands, that the restaurant founder, Ms Waraporn Dale, has given frequent cookery demonstrations on local television and radio programmes, teaching people how to cook the fine cuisine that her kitchen staff cook up in each one of her restaurants. All meals are cooked using the freshest natural and authentic ingredients. They are additive free and each dish is prepared with love, skill and precision. The Siam Corner group is not without its honours. In addition to being recognised by the Staffordshire Good Food Awards, it is also one of a few UK Thai restaurants to receive the 'Thailand Brand' award from the Thai Government for restaurants proven to be performing to the highest standards of service and cuisine. This only further cements their pledge to offer Thai cuisine at its very best and maintain food and service to the highest standards with a consistency on marketing, their unique restaurant interiors and the indulgent, warm environment that each individual restaurant offers.
For more information contact Siam Corner Thai Marina on:
Telephone: 01332 295241 Siam Corner Thai Marina, Unit 2 Barton Marina, Barton under Needwood, Burton upon Trent, Staffordshire, DE13 8DZ
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AMAZON BRAZIL RESTAURANT
BRABOW ENGINEERING
CELEBRATING THREE MONTHS OF BRAZILIAN FOOD & CULTURE CELEBRATING OVER 45 YEARS IN BUSINESS CENTRE Celebrating over 45 years in business, Brabow Engineering Ltd remains one of Gloucester's most successful businesses and one of the Midlands most innovative engineering firms.
Broad Street's Amazon Brazil Restaurant is the first of its kind for Birmingham. As the city's first ever Brazilian Restaurant, the Amazon Brazil opened its doors at the beginning of March and is celebrating three months of Brazilian food and culture in the Midlands region. Bringing the authentic flavours and dishes of Brazil to diners as well as the festive traditions of the South American nation, the Churrascaria (Tchu-ras-ka-ria), which means 'house of barbecue,' follows a Brazilian tradition that has been popular for over three centuries. This original and unique way of roasting meat conserves the taste and leaves the cuts full of natural juices and flavours. Diners are free to choose from all varieties of meat, including beef, pork, lamb and chicken. Similar to a carvery format, guests are free to eat as much as they like until they are full. Diners are given red and green discs upon entering the restaurant. Show green and the staff with serve you at your table. Turn the disc to red and they know that you have had enough. Don't worry if you
don;t like meat though - for the restaurant also boasts one of the biggest salad bars in the country, serving a vast array of salads and vegetarian dishes. Many of the restaurant's key ingredients are imported from Brazil to maintain an authentic flavour. Cooked by their Brazilian head chef the traditional way, cultural ingredients are cooked together with locally sourced, fresh fruit and vegetables to create flavoursome, sumptuous dishes. Brazilian's are renowned for their cocktails and the restaurant's in-house bar serves up a range of different canapes alongside beers, wines and spirits. Serving up delicious dinners Monday to Friday and opening for longer periods to cover lunch times at weekends, Amazon Brazilian Restaurant is Birmingham's newest, unique attraction.
The family-run business owes much of its success to the personal and friendly approach it adopts with all clients, getting to know the customer and adhering to their every need. Specialising in precision engineering and welding, the business has welcomed repeat business from many clients and is often cited as a recommended company to do business with. Unsurprisingly, this has led to the company building up a reputation for providing the highest quality service with a smile, throughout the entire country. Brabow Engineering Ltd provides a multitude of engineering services but is most acknowledged in the field of welding, able to carry out TIG, MIG and MMA work. Lloyds-registered and certified to BS4872 Parts 1 and 2 as well as ASME 9, the company welds all sorts of materials from aluminuim through to super duplexes.
Ltd create prototypes and work on batch production using the highest quality CNC vertical and horizontal machining centres, with CNC lathes at the heart of the business. Tooling is not a problem for the firm, for Brabow Engineering Ltd makes its own tools on site meaning it can work on any bespoke job.With such a wide array of skills and expertise, it is little wonder Brabow Engineering Ltd boast a national client base. Offering a national service built upon friendly local principles, the company looks set for even further success in the future. For more information contact Brabow Engineering Ltd on:
Telephone: 01452 520674 Fax: 01452 307167 Web: www.brabow.co.uk Email: sales@brabow.co.uk Brabow Engineering Ltd, Lower Tuffley Lane, Gloucester,GL2 5DT
Quality of product and business management has always been a prime concern of Brabow Engineering Ltd, which is why they have the quality management For more information contact system ISO9001-2008 in place, ensuring that you Amazon Brazil Restaurant on: receive the very service all year round.
Telephone: 0121 643 3723
Web: www.amazonbrazilrestaurants.com Email: amabrazil@hotmail.co.uk Amazon Brazil Restaurant, Fiveways, 197 Broad Street, Birmingham, B15 1AY
Today, the company employs 24 highly skilled, qualified and experienced staff, using the very latest breakthroughs in machining technology to create durable, high quality products. Brabow Engineering
NATALIA LINGIAH (HONISTER PARTNERS)
SHREDALL LTD
ONE OF THE UK'S LEADING FINANCIAL ADVISORS
PROVIDING CONFIDENTIAL WASTE SHREDDING SERVICES
As one of the UK's leading financial advisors, authorised by the FSA, Natalia Lingiah knows a thing or two about money. As part of one of the largest groups of independent financial advisors in the UK, Honister Partners, Natalia provides targeted advice on savings, investments and retirement planning from her Birmingham office.
Shredall Ltd, one of the UK's largest independently owned shredding and storage companies has recently moved its Nottingham site and merged with sister company SDS.
As she is part of an independent financial service, Natalia has the freedom to search the entire marketplace for her clients, delivering unique, innovative and tailored solutions to all individual and business clients. Placing a huge emphasis on security and wealth creation for her clients, Natalia is able to protect what her clients have already worked hard to achieve as well as identify the most appropriate ways for them to maximise their financial growth. Natalia
always keeps her clients informed about the specific strategy she recommends, why she recommends it and what they can expect to achieve. The typical areas of Natalia's expertise are in investments, pensions, protection, mortgages and financial planning, including employee benefits, ISAs, life assurance and investment reviews. With many years in the finance sector behind her, Natalia is highly qualified to deliver useful advice to businesses and members of the public. Her philosophy is a simple one - her clients success represent her own success. For this reason, every client and every client situation are handled in an individual and highly tailored manner. From the beginning of any consultation, Natalia will work hard to understand her client's every need and identify which of her services are most beneficial to the client. Her personable and honest approach to her work are what has seen her attract clients form throughout the Midlands and enjoy high levels of repeat business. Natalia believes in providing her clients with a first class level of service built around their specific circumstances. She uses her position to the advantage of her clients, seeking out the most appropriate solutions and consistently identifying new developments to help her clients stay ahead of the markets - that is why she continues to be one of the leading financial advisors in the UK.
Shredall Ltd was originally set up by Lloyd Williams and his sleeping partner in 2007 but in April last year Lloyd bought out his partner with the intentions of making Shredall Ltd an entirely family business. Since the takeover, he has been joined by his daughter Lucy and son Nick on the Board of Directors, creating a business that places a large emphasis on delivering a personal, professional service, working tirelessly to make Shredall Ltd remain at the top of its market. Shredall Ltd provides confidential waste shredding services to industries across the U.K. Its customer base includes small companies to multi-nationals, public and private sector bodies. Shredall offers a number of scheduled and ad-hoc, on-site and off site shredding services, and processes a wide range of materials requiring confidential destruction. The range includes paper-based documents, interview tapes, computer hard drives, microfilm, CCTV tapes, videos, uniforms, credit cards and overrun product lines from manufacturing companies. All ‘end product’ is recycled. SDS, offer secure document storage services, off-site back up tape storage and document scanning. Records are managed using advanced barcode scanning and tracking of all items, such as files, boxes or tapes, into and out of the facility. With a customised fleet of vehicles, they can securely transport documents to and from your offices, providing full nationwide coverage with drivers that are CRB checked.
For more information or to set-up your free, noobligation initial consultation, call Natalia Lingiah on: Telephone: 0121 616 4014 Web: www.honisterpartners-natalia.com Email: natalia.lingiah@honisterpartners.com Honister Partners, Quayside Tower, Broad Street, Shredall Ltd and SDS are extremely service oriented Birmingham B1 2HF and are proud to say that they really are your
'document security people'. There are many options to your data management requirements and one of their team will be pleased to visit your site, discuss your bespoke needs and tailor a solution to meet with your requirements.. For more information contact Shredall Ltd on: Telephone: 0800 393 178 Web: www.shredall.co.uk
THE GOOD GARAGE SCHEME WOODMANCOTE GARAGE TRADITIONAL, PROFESSIONAL AND CARING Celebrating 25 years in the motoring trade, Woodmancote Garage is just as its slogan states; traditional, professional and caring. Its placing on the Good Garage Scheme only serves as a stark reminder to customers that Woodmancote is a trusted and reliable firm that carries out all work to the highest standards. The range of services that the garage offers is wide and varied. Whether you need servicing, repairs, tyre work or diagnostics, bodywork and paint work, their team of professional, friendly engineers are more than happy to help you out.
cars serviced or repaired within hours of arriving, providing a service that can always be relied upon. The motor industry is forever changing which is why Woodmancote Garage always keep an eye out for the latest technological advancements that will help them continue to offer the very best, fastest service around. Investing in the latest diagnostic equipment, there is no job too big or small for Woodmancote Garage and anything they are unable to do, they will outsource on your behalf with no extra costs, confirming their pledge to offer the very best service to every individual customer.
For more information contact Woodmancote Garage on:
Telephone: 01242 675 470 head skimming, the company even goes as far as to offer complete engine rebuilds. A breakdown and recovery service is available as well as a
courtesy car for those whose vehicle requires work that will take more than a day to complete. Turnaround at the garage is unrivalled with many
Woodmancote Garage, Oxbutts Industrial Estate, Woodmancote, Cheltenham, GL52 8HL
The Cheltenham-based company was set up a year ago after previously trading in the same city, based on the belief that its customers' needs are of the utmost importance. The firm's small, dedicated team is committed to meeting those needs which has resulted in a high percentage of repeat business from local customers as well as word of mouth recommendations. Workers at Woodmancote Garage are always prepared to go the extra mile for clients. As well as offering such specialist services as cam belt replacements, clutch work, welding and cylinder
C & K MOTORS ABOUT TO CELEBRATE ITS 25TH YEAR OF TRADING. Having been enrolled on the Good Garage Scheme since its conception and celebrating its 25th anniversary this June, there are few local garages as experienced or trusted as Leominster based C & K Motors Set up in 1986 by Colin Jones and his thenbusiness partner, the garage was originally a small local firm that specialised in the areas of body work and paint work. Since then, Colin took over the business five years ago, trained his son to take over body work following his partner's retirement and transformed C & K Motors into a unique family business. Having moved 12 months ago from a 1800 square foot premises to a new 3000 square foot premises, the company now offers more services than ever, including body work, paint work, re-sprays, MOT
preparation, general repairs and some diagnostics. Along with the move, C & K Motors has inherited its fast, reliable service and are able to get most cars returned to their owners on the same day as booking them in for work. Whilst working in small premises, C & K's small, professional team had to work on jobs quickly in order to free up workshop space for their next job and despite having more room to work in now, they still operate a quick service with no compromise on quality. There is no better testimony to the success of C & K Motors than their client base, of which they boast customers from as far afield as Hereford and Tenbury Wells as well as the local area. Many of these clients have remained loyal to the company for 25 years, which is not surprising considering the excellent reputation Colin had within the industry, even before he set up C & K Motors. For Colin previously worked for a different local Leominster garage and found his work being requested by customers
repeatedly. After building a name for himself in the area for offering first class, speedy service, he set up business on his own, taking many of those customers with him. Today, Colin is one of a dedicated team of four staff that boast many decades of experience in the motor industry between them. With a reputation throughout the local area for excellence and ongoing
endorsements from the Good Garage Scheme, it is no accident that C & K Motors is about to celebrate its 25th year of trading.
For more information contact C & K Motors on:
Telephone: 01568 611911 C & K Motors, Unit 1, Brierley Way, 7 Avenue, Leominster, HR6 0RW
THE GOOD GARAGE SCHEME OLD MILL MOTORS GOOD OLD FASHIONED HONESTY AND INTEGRITY As an independently run local family business, it is important that the customers of Old Mill Motors know that they can trust the garage to carry out work to the highest standard, which is why being enrolled on the Good Garage Scheme has helped the company enjoy lots of repeat business.
The Witney-based garage prides itself on good old fashioned honesty and integrity to provide quality and value for money to every client. Now run by Paul Belcher after he took over the business from his father last year, the garage has been run by the same family for over 32 years, making it a personable and friendly place to bring your vehicle for servicing. Old Mill Motors work on all makes and models including classic cars, offering servicing, minor body works, clutch replacements, diagnostics, MOTs, tyres
& exhausts, air conditioning amongst other services. With a total of three dedicated mechanics and four ramps, Old Mill Motors has the workforce and the facilities to deliver excellence in every job. With specialist brake skimming equipment and the very latest in diagnostic machinery, Old Mill Motors can read the faults on a vehicle and get to work on repairing it quickly and efficiently. If there is a job they are unable to carry out for whatever reason, they will recommend someone in the local area who can do it for you, for a competitive price. With a free pick up and delivery service and a fast turnaround time, you can be sure that your vehicle is in safe hands when you leave it with Old Mill Motors. As a Unipart Car Part Centre, you can be assured that the garage only uses the highest quality spare parts on your vehicle and will conduct work in a professional and discreet manner. The company's admirable approach to business and customer service has helped it achieve business from up to 10 miles away from Witney and even welcome back customers who have moved to other cities but keep on returning for the professional service they know
they will always receive. With plenty of word of mouth recommendations and new business every day, Old Mill Motors is one of the most trusted, reliable garages in the Midlands region.
For more information contact Old Mill Motors on:
Telephone: 01993 771286 Web: www.oldmillmotorswitney.co.uk Old Mill Motors, Unit 2 Crawley Mill Industrial Estate, Dry Lane, Crawley, Witney, Oxfordshire, OX29 9TJ
MUCH MARCLE GARAGE ONE OF THE MOST TRUSTED BUSINESSES WITHIN THE HEREFORDSHIRE COUNTY
As a member of the Good Garage Scheme for four years, Much Marcle Garage is one of the most trusted businesses for vehicle servicing and repair within the Herefordshire county. After taking over Weston's Garage in 2006 following a lifetime within the motor industry, current owner Jon Southall renamed the premises Much Marcle Garage and has since doubled turnover by delivering exceptional customer service to all clients. With a professional, experienced team - one of which has been with the garage for 39 years - Much Marcle Garage is home to the industry specialists, aiming to get your vehicle back on the road as soon as possible. The range of services offered by Much Marcle Garage is varied, carrying out everything from MOTs, servicing, brakes, clutch work and diagnostics to steering alignment, air conditioning,
exhaust work and repairs. With the very latest technology aiding their work, Much Marcle Garage personally tailor their services to suit every individual customer and vehicle. With three ramps, the business works on all makes and models up to class four, priding itself on the personal touch it offers to all customers. Today, much of the garage's business comes from wordof-mouth recommendations, enabling them to enjoy regular new business whilst consistently securing repeat business from a host of happy, regular clients. So efficient is the garage's services, that they even enjoy custom from as far afield as Holland! For the firm has acquired a regular Dutch customer who always pops in for a service when meeting family in the area. As well as servicing the vehicular needs of the public, Much Marcle Garage also offers a full range of services to small business clients and is involved in motorsport preparation. With such a range of services on offer and a promise to send every customer away delighted with the service they have received, it is no wonder Much Marcle Garage is one of the most preferred businesses in Herefordshire for vehicle servicing and repairs.
For more information contact Much Marcle Garage on:
Telephone: 01531 660232 www.carservicingherefordshire.com Much Marcle Garage, near Ledbury, HR8 2LX
THE GOOD GARAGE SCHEME RENNSPORT ONE OF THE MIDLAND'S FINEST LOCAL GARAGES Having been enrolled on the Good Garage Scheme since its start-up , Wolverhampton based Rennsport has established a reputation as one of the Midland's finest local garages - a reputation recently enhanced by the MOT Station they moved into last September. This means the firm no longer needs to outsource its MOT testing and can instead offer a prompt, immediate MOT service. The facility was fitted as part of the company's move to a bigger premises, as demand for their services grew within the local area. Despite still being situated on the Stafford Road, the company is enjoying a much better workspace which has enabled them to increase their services and double their work output. Established in 1989, Rennsport has long been servicing the vehicular needs of the black country, offering servicing, diagnostics, mechanical and
For more information contact Rennsport on:
Telephone: 01902 397075
“Service to the highest standard, trustworthy and reliable� electrical repairs, air conditioning service on all makes and models. Run by Andy Pearson and his business partner, Rennsport continue to uphold the personal, professional service that the business created a name for itself upon, 22 years ago. Enjoying countless word of mouth recommendations and repeat business from loyal customers that know they will always receive service to the highest standard, Rennsport is both trustworthy and reliable. With such a positive reputation, the garage has been able to frequently attract new business from up to 15 miles away!
Web: www.rennsportuk.com Email: service@rennsportuk.com Rennsport, 500 Stafford Road, Wolverhampton, WV10 6AN
It is no surprise that Andy and his business partner are so trusted when it comes to vehicle servicing and repair, for they both began their engineering careers as teenagers, amassing over 60 years experience in the trade between them. Their place on the Good Garage Scheme means that customers can be sure they are placing their vehicles in the care of consummate professionals. It also means that customers receive an engine flush and fuel treatment with every service they receive.
R M SERVICES
TJ HALL AND SON LTD
THE MOST RECOMMENDED GARAGE IN THE COUNTRY
RUNNERS-UP OF GARAGE OF THE YEAR IN 2010
Leicestershire based R M Services has become the most recommended garage in the country on the Good Garage Scheme - the official directory of the UK's top garage firms. Amassing over three thousand feedback comments, the company, which has been enlisted on the scheme for two years, has built up a positive reputation in the Midlands and further afield for a friendly, professional service.
Having been enrolled on the Good Garage Scheme for five years, one of their workers presented with a Technician of the Year award by the CAT awards in 2009 and announced runners-up of Garage of the Year in 2010, TJ Hall and Son Ltd has come a long way in a very short space of time.
Situated in the middle of the A6, R M Services began life as a mobile vehicle repair service before owner Roger Coates was gifted the opportunity to purchase a small garage with his then-business partner. After demolishing the site and building a new, custom garage, Roger later bought his partner out and has been running the company alone for over three decades. Today, R M Services is a one-stop shop, able to carry out all manner of garage repairs and servicing on any car or light commercial, including diagnostics, tyre repair, MOTs, paintwork and dent removal. With over 40 years experience in the motor trade and a keen collector of cars, Roger has a passion and flair for the industry. Every member of his team has been working with him for at least ten years so you can be sure when you visit R M Services, you will be receiving the very best help. The company also boasts an in-house body shop that is hired out by a recommended firm, which customers are free to take advantage of.
With a client base that includes many local, loyal customers that return to R M Services for work repeatedly, the garage has even seen customers travel from as far afield as London and Manchester after previously using R M Services and being so impressed with the results that they wanted their vehicle looked after again by the team. A warm and friendly service is guaranteed when you visit R M Services and is something that the business has prided itself on for the many years it has been in business. Investing in the very latest diagnostic equipment, R M Services is a cutting-edge firm that is always looking for new ways to offer even better service for its customers. With a turnaround of just one day on most jobs and a courtesy car available for those that will be without their vehicles for a long time, there are very few companies offering such a personal and reliable service as R M Services - 3,000 comments cannot be wrong!
Established in 2006, the Oxford-based family business was set up by Tim Hall, after he became redundant from his previous job as an engineer. After a nearby garage became laden with debt and abandoned by its previous owners, Tim picked up the lease and set about creating a profitable business. After always harbouring a passion for cars, Tim found it difficult to turn around the dying reputation of the garage and convince suppliers and customers to offer their business. However. after organising a collection and delivery service for workers at the nearby Oxford Science and Business Park, word quickly spread of TJ Hall and Son Ltd's loyalty and professionalism; so much so that the firm quickly gained a strong customer base.
Something that helped TJ Hall and Son Ltd carve a reputation for unrivalled quality is the emphasis that Tim put onto investing in the very latest technology for diagnostics. The company is already looking forward to the future and planning to invest in technology that will allow them to carry out laser alignment as well as air conditioning work. As one of very few garages in the country to be assigned to the Autocrew network, TJ Hall and Son Ltd have become endorsed by German manufacturers Bosch and utilise their technologies accordingly. With such an eye for development and the reputation the company has built up for delivering a friendly, high quality service, it is little surprise that TJ Hall and Son Ltd are already thriving after just half a decade in business.
Today, the garage enjoys scores of repeat business
For more information contact TJ Hall and Son Ltd on:
For more information contact R M Services on: and has seen its reputation grow further with
Telephone: 01509 842747 Fax: 01509 646220 Web: www.r-m-services.com R M Services, Derby Road, Hathern, (near Loughborough), Leicestershire, LE12 5LD
rebuild or just a minor service. Whatever work you need carrying out on your vehicle, TJ Hall and Son Ltd have the expertise to ensure excellent results by using quality, guaranteed replacement parts.
countless referrals. Offering VOSA approved MOT testing, servicing and repair work, TJ Hall and Son Ltd offer all the services you would expect from a small, local garage with the small exception of bodywork. Their technicians are fully trained and experienced in completing an engine or gearbox
Telephone: 01865 777 344 Fax: 01865 777 456 Web: www.tjhallandson.co.uk Email: info@tjhallandson.co.uk TJ Hall and Son Ltd, Sandford Garage, 46 Henley Road, Sandford-on-Thames, Oxford, OX4 4YP
A FOCUS ON THE REGION’S LOCKSMITHS ALCESTER LOCKS LIMITED CELEBRATING 25 YEARS IN BUSINESS Now celebrating 25 years in business, Alcester Locks Limited has come a long way from the humble beginnings of a hardware store in 1986. The business' success story began when Alan and Norma Jones purchased a run-down hardware shop in Alcester High Street and changed the name to Alcester Locks Limited. Adding Locksmiths to the store's range of services, the business was soon responding to overwhelming demand for locksmith services, prompting it to drop the hardware aspect of the business altogether in the early nineties.
most successful family businesses in the Midlands. The firm have built a reputation as a fast and reliable company in which you can trust. After Norma and Alan's son, Peter joined the business in 1992, Specialist Car Key cutting and Access Control Systems were added to the companies vast range of services.
Carrying out Lock and Safe repairs, installation and opening as well, PVC(u) door cylinders and high security cylinders, the business operates an emergency call out service that sees them respond to those locked out in most cases less than an hour of each call where possible. Whatever the Lock and whatever the Door or Safe it is installed on, Alcester Locks' expert team can always find a solution.
When the opportunity arose to move to the Arden Industrial Estate in 2007 and take advantage of a fully-facilitated workshop, the Jones' jumped at the opportunity and have since continued to build on an impressive and unique local business.
Today, Alcester Locks Limited remains one of the
Working for members of the public as well as commercial businesses which includes organisations including The National Trust, Alcester Locks Limited
enjoy a large proportion of repeat business and recommendations of their service. The oldest lock the company has ever serviced was a 1450 manor house, for which they serviced the old lock and made a new set of keys. To this day, Alan also finds time to work as an inspector for the Master Locksmith's Association, taking him round other Locksmiths to make sure that standards are being kept up to the trade's expectations. By still maintaining the old family values of a traditional small business, Alcester Locks continues to put the customer first at all times – an ethic that has helped the business enjoy two and a half decades at the top of the locksmith industry.
For more information contact Alcester Locks Limited on:
Telephone: 01789 762450 Fax: 01789 400 799 Email: sales@alcesterlocks.co.uk Alcester Locks Limited, Unit 12, 34 Tything Road, Kinwarton, Alcester, Warwickshire, B49 6ES
RUTHERFORDS LOCKSMITHS
AMBER LOCKS
ONE OF THE MOST EXPERIENCED LOCKSMITHS IN THE MIDLANDS
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS IN BUSINESS THIS YEAR
Now celebrating its 55th year in business, Rutherfords Locksmiths is one of the most experienced locksmiths in the Midlands. Specialising in emergency call outs, key cutting, UPVC products, safe opening and locking, trophy manufacture and engraving amongst other things, Rutherford Locksmiths has grown from its modest beginnings to become one of the leading concerns of its type.
As businesses ideas go, very few are born whilst locked out of your house but that was just what sparked the start up of Amber Locks, which is celebrating 10 years in business this year. When current owner Jerry Davis became locked out of his home one night, he really struggled to find a competent locksmith, so seeing a gap in the market for a locksmith covering Evesham, he enrolled on a training course to learn the skills he needed to set up his business.
Set up in 1956 by Sydney Rutherford, who still remains at the helm of the business today, the company builds its service upon hard work and reliable service. When responding to an emergency call, Rutherfords aim to have someone with you within just one hour and even have workers further afield to cope with long distance journeys. Servicing the needs of Wellingborough
and its surrounding areas, the company operates within a 30 mile radius, responding to calls throughout the Midands. As well as servicing the needs of the public, Rutherfords also work with a number of public sector businesses including social services, local schools, colleges, police and emergency services. Many of the company's clients and workforce have remained with the firm throughout its 55 years in business, staying loyal in order to receive excellent customer service and professional workmanship on each and every job. Rutherfords is at the pinnacle of the locksmiths market, investing daily in the most cutting edge technology to be able to offer the customer exceptional service at all times. The company's ethic to always move with the times is reflected in the unusual and diverse range of products that it uses. With new technology released all the time, Rutherfords regularly follow industry magazines in order to keep investing in technology that has already helped it stay one step ahead of competitors. By treating each customer with the kind of respect and first class service that they deserve, Rutherfords Locksmiths has built up a reputation for excellence not just within its own industry, but throughout the wider Midlands. With countless recommendations and repeat business, Rutherfords Locksmiths has already enjoyed 55 years in business and looks set for many more years of success. For more information contact Rutherfords Locksmiths on:
Telephone: 01933 279812 Fax: 01933 271706 Web: www.rutherfordsuk.co.uk Email: info@rutherfordsuk.com Rutherfords Locksmiths, 27-28, Market St, Wellingborough, NN8 1AT
Soon after, Amber Locks was created as Jerry conducted a mobile locksmiths business from his van which he fully equipped as a mobile workshop with key cutting machines, tools of the trade and a wide range of stock. As demand for his work grew, he was able to purchase his own shop in 2004, adding extra staff to his business and later expanding to cover Worcestershire and Cheltenham as well as Evesham. Today, Amber Locks operates two mobile workshops in addition to the shop and is able to respond to emergency call-outs within 20 minutes - even on weekends! Carrying a range of locks on both its vehicles together with a wider selection of additional stock in the company shop, Amber Locks also sell safes, security grilles and provide other services such as lock repairs and master keying of existing or new locks.
After steady growth for the first 8 years, Amber-Locks now derive over 60% of their work from existing customers who include Worcester City Council, Wychavon District Council and West Mercia Police together with homes and businesses across Worcestershire & into Cheltenham. Over the years, Jerry has had to deal with a whole range of lock situations from a naked lady locked in the bathroom to a child locked in a classroom. One of the more interesting jobs occurred recently when a local church rang to ask if I could open an old metal box. The box turned out to be a 17th century ‘Armada’ chest which was very large and had not been opened in living memory. After a couple of hours, Jerry managed to open the chest to discover a whole pile of very old documents, the youngest of which was dated 1901, with others going back two or three hundred years. For more information contact Amber Locks on:
Telephone: Shop 01386 423422 Locksmith: 01905 339339 or 01386 761652 Amber Locks, 61A Bridge Street, Evesham, Worcestershire WR11 4SG