BUSINESS INSIGHT EAST ANGLIA
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Jon Jaffrey
MANAGING DIRECTOR
Sophie Jaffrey
PROJECT DIRECTORS
Jay Foster
Peter Neal
Freddie Oscar
SALES DIRECTORS
Zak Harry Lottie Tatum
MAGAZINE & ADVERT DESIGNER
Andy Taylor Mashuni.com
WEBSITE & IT
Andy Taylor Mashuni.com
CONTRIBUTORS
Alex Durand CEO of Saxon Air
Maria Hopwood Founder of The Spiral Notebook
CONTACT
Jaffrey Media Group
Park View Business Centre Combermere Whitchurch Shropshire SY13 4AL England
GENERAL ENQUIRIES +44 7715 547513
info@jaffreymediagroup.com jaffreymediagroup.com
WELCOME
Welcome to the inaugural issue of Business Insight East Anglia Magazine — your essential guide to the vibrant economic landscape of our region. As we embark on this exciting journey together, our focus is firmly set on showcasing East Anglia as a rising powerhouse in the UK’s economic framework.
In this issue, we delve into the remarkable visit of Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister to the Cambridge Overseas Research Centre. This meeting not only highlights the region’s cutting-edge capabilities in decarbonisation research but also underscores East Anglia’s role as a leader in innovative solutions for a sustainable future.
Alex Durand, the CEO of Saxon Air tells Business Insight East Anglia how the company has committed to sustainable aviation while providing comprehensive services and fostering innovation. “What truly distinguishes Saxon Air in the competitive aviation market is our holistic approach to service delivery. Our aircraft operations extend worldwide, ensuring seamless travel across Europe and beyond, while maintaining the highest standards of safety, flexibility, and discretion that our respected clientele expects.”
Additionally, our corporate hospitality and events section takes you on a journey through the rich history and unique character of East Anglia. From picturesque landscapes to historic venues, it’s clear why our region is fast becoming a premier destination for corporate gatherings and events.
We are also thrilled to share insights from Maria Hopwood, founder of The Spiral Notebook. Her inspiring journey in the business world offers a glimpse into the entrepreneurial spirit that fuels our region’s growth.
Join us as we explore the opportunities and stories that make East Anglia a vibrant hub for business and innovation. Together, let’s celebrate the potential that lies ahead for our dynamic region.
As always, we value your feedback and contributions. Your insights are what make our publication a trusted resource within the East Anglian community. Please feel free to reach out with your thoughts, or if you have a story, you believe should be shared.
Thank you for your continued support, and we hope you enjoy this issue!
Jon Jaffrey CEO - Jaffrey Media Group
CONTENTS
BUSINESS FEATURES
East Anglia: A rising economic force in the UK East Anglia is home to 10 universities, including the world-renowned Cambridge University. What this means is that every year, thousands of people from all over the world move here to study, while thousands more graduate and begin looking for employment. As a result, there is a wealth of talent available in the region, making it an attractive location for high-growth, innovative companies.
Deputy Prime Minister of Singapore visits Cambridge overseas research centre Mr Heng Swee Keat said: “The need to tackle climate change and its impact grows ever more urgent. During my visit to Cambridge CARES (Centre for Advanced Research and Education in Singapore) — Cambridge University’s first and only research centre outside the UK — I witnessed how research and international collaboration are driving innovative solutions to combat climate change, particularly in the area of decarbonisation
Saxon Air has committed to sustainable aviation while providing comprehensive services and fostering innovation
Alex Durand, the CEO of Saxon Air tells Business Insight East Anglia that in today’s rapidly evolving aviation landscape, the challenge lies not just in delivering exceptional service but in doing so sustainably. As the CEO of Saxon Air, I’m proud to share how we have transformed this challenge into an opportunity, establishing ourselves as one of the UK’s leading providers of comprehensive aviation services while setting new standards for environmental responsibility.
Corporate Hospitality and Events in East Anglia
Corporate hospitality in East Anglia is not merely about utilitarian spaces; it is about creating memorable experiences. Many venues offer bespoke packages that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of a business. This includes everything from catering options featuring local produce to team-building activities that leverage the region’s natural beauty.
The Business Directory
Founder of the Spiral Notebook, Maria Hopwood talks to Business Insight East Anglia.
My main services are Email management, Diary Management, Meeting/ Travel and Event organisation and recruitment/onboarding assistance. I also offer personal admin services, so if a business owner is so busy they don’t have time for their personal admin I can help with that too. I can undertake research for holidays, activities, celebratory events and organise traces to fix things, that kind of thing.
A RISING ECONOMIC FORCE IN THE UK
Nestled in the eastern part of England, East Anglia, Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, and Cambridgeshire has emerged in recent years as a dynamic hub helping to propel the UK’s economic growth.
In this article, our Debt Finance Director based in the region, Martin Williams, delves deeper into the reasons behind this, and why it makes this region an attractive one for lenders like OakNorth.
A HOTBED OF TALENT
East Anglia is home to 10 universities, including the world-renowned Cambridge University. What
this means is that every year, thousands of people from all over the world move here to study, while thousands more graduate and begin looking for employment. As a result, there is a wealth of talent available in the region, making it an attractive location for high-growth, innovative companies. From our perspective as a lender, this creates numerous opportunities – particularly with regard to purpose-built student accommodation,
residential developments, and office space. Places such as Cambridge, Bury St Edmunds and Norwich continue to rank as some of the most desirable places to live in the UK. Further East, Ipswich is one of the UK’s fastest-growing towns, where I personally led an OakNorth transaction to support Pertwee Estates with a loan following the conversion of a site on Princes Street into 24,000 sq. ft of high-specification office space that is now fully let.
In late October, OakNorth completed an £11m loan to Essex-headquartered SME housebuilder, Blueprint Property Group, to develop a new tenacre residential scheme. The group specialises in residential development, sales, and lettings, as well as land acquisitions and disposals, and has completed numerous residential schemes across the region.
AN INNOVATION HUB
East Anglia’s strength lies in its commitment to innovation. The Cambridge Science Park, established in the 1970s, has become a nucleus for pioneering technology and life science companies, and Cambridge’s “Silicon Fen” has seen remarkable growth in tech start-ups, attracting investment and fostering a culture of entrepreneurship. Wellknown tech companies such as Darktrace and ARM Holdings started here, creating employment opportunities, and elevating the region’s status as an innovation hub on the global stage. Other success stories that have come out of the region include AI company, Prowler.io, and biotech firm, Bicycle Therapeutics – both of which are thriving in Cambridge and contributing to the region’s economic upsurge.
However, this growth isn’t limited to technology companies – we’re seeing businesses across a variety of sectors finding new creative ways to scale and compete. Earlier this quarter for example, we completed a tailored loan facility to MRW Group, which has offices in Cambridgeshire, Buckinghamshire, and Somerset, to support its buy-and-build strategy, starting with the acquisition of three IFA businesses. In June, I led a £37m transaction with UK Storage, one of the UK’s largest independent self-storage providers with 28 stores, including several across East Anglia, totalling over 880,000 sq. ft. The UK’s selfstorage market has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by people reconfiguring their homes to accommodate hybrid working.
GOVERNMENT INVESTMENTS AND INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT
The government has recognised East Anglia’s potential and has made strategic investments to catalyse its growth further. In January, the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities awarded £25m to Freeport East, a UK freeport made up of Felixstowe and Harwich ports, and Gateway 14 business park off the A14, designed to offer tax and duty breaks to encourage business activity.
The construction of the A14 Cambridge to Huntingdon improvement scheme, the dualling of the A11, and the Norwich Northern Distributor Road are just a few other examples
of infrastructure development projects aimed at enhancing connectivity and supporting economic growth in the region.
The A14 and A11 are particularly interesting from our perspective, as they’ve seen significant increases in warehousing and logistics – a big growth area given the rise in online shopping since COVID-19. Last October for example, I led on a £1.52m loan to support the development of three new warehouses at Snetterton Business Park near Norwich.
Infrastructure investments such as these not only foster job creation – Freeport East is expected to create over 13,500 jobs over its lifetime – but also boost East Anglia’s connectivity with other parts of the UK, helping to make it an even more attractive location for top talent and top businesses.
The quality of talent, number of infrastructure investments, and scale of innovation coming out of East Anglia is no mere coincidence, but a result of strategic planning, and collective efforts by businesses, educational institutions, and government initiatives. The result is that the economic contributions from various sectors in the region, including technology, agriculture, life sciences, and renewable energy, have propelled East Anglia’s economy, contributing substantially to the UK’s overall economic prosperity.
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Deputy Prime Minister of Singapore visits Cambridge overseas research centre
Mr Heng Swee Keat, Deputy Prime Minister of Singapore and Chairman of the National Research Foundation (NRF) paid a visit to the University of Cambridge’s overseas research centre in Singapore and viewed its technical capabilities for decarbonisation research.
The Cambridge Centre for Advanced Research and Education in Singapore (CARES) is hosting two projects that aim to aid Singapore’s business transition away from petrochemicals towards a netzero emissions target by 2050.
Under the newly launched CREATE Thematic Programme in Decarbonisation supported by the National Research Foundation (NRF), the two projects will investigate non-fossil fuel-based pathways for Singapore’s chemical manufacturing industry and energy systems.
Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the NRF, Mr Heng Swee Keat toured the first of three laboratories for the programme to view the technical capabilities required for the various project teams, including CARES’ projects on the Sustainable Manufacture of Molecules and
Materials in Singapore (SM3), and Hydrogen and Ammonia Combustion in Singapore (HYCOMBS).
SM3 aims to provide a path to a net-zero, high-value chemical manufacturing industry in Singapore. Its core goal is to address the dependency of producers of performance chemicals on starting materials that typically come from fossil-based carbon sources. The SM3 team hope to develop effective synthetic methods that best convert cheap and abundant fossil-free raw materials into high-value molecules, for use in sectors such as medicines and agrochemicals.
In project HYCOMBS, universities from Singapore, UK, Japan, France and Norway will work together to investigate the underlying combustion process of hydrogen and ammonia to minimise pollutants and accelerate industry innovation.
As part of the lab demonstrations on decarbonisation, CARES showcased an additional ongoing activity with City Energy investigating hydrogen-rich town gas for residential and commercial cooking stoves.
Mr Heng Swee Keat said: “The need to tackle climate change and its impact grows ever more urgent. During my visit to Cambridge CARES (Centre for Advanced Research and Education in Singapore) — Cambridge University’s first and only research centre outside the UK — I witnessed how research and international collaboration are driving innovative solutions to combat climate change, particularly in the area of decarbonisation.
In just a decade, CARES has established cutting-edge R&D facilities dedicated to decarbonisation projects that not only reduce emissions but also pave the way for a more sustainable future for Singapore. From hydrogen combustion and laser-based combustion diagnostics to the development of cleaner fuels for gas stoves, their work is closely aligned with the goals outlined in our Singapore Green Plan 2030, and achieving Singapore’s net-zero emissions goal by 2050.
It was encouraging to hear from Director of CARES, Professor Markus Kraft, as he shared how being based in the CREATE facility at the National University of Singapore facilitates interactions with researchers from diverse countries and disciplines. This collaborative and interdisciplinary approach embodies the essence of research — working together to address shared global challenges.”
Since 2013, CARES has been involved in research programmes with Nanyang Technological University and the National University of Singapore as the University of Cambridge’s first overseas centre. One of its early flagship programmes, the Centre for Carbon Reduction in Chemical Technologies (C4T), has investigated areas from sustainable reaction engineering, electrochemistry, and maritime decarbonisation to digitalisation.
By building on this foundation and leveraging the local talent pool, CARES has attracted new partners from international universities and institutes for SM3 and HYCOMBS. This includes EPFL, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne, which will provide skills in the domain AI for chemistry. CNRS, the French National Centre for Scientific Research, the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, and Tohoku University from Japan will contribute technical equipment and key talent in hydrogen and ammonia combustion.
SAXON AIR
Saxon Air is redefining aviation by combining excellence with sustainability.
CEO Alex Durand shares how the company delivers top-tier services while driving innovation and reducing its environmental footprint.
Saxon Air has committed to sustainable aviation while providing comprehensive services and fostering innovation. Alex Durand, CEO tells Business Insight East Anglia more.
In today’s rapidly evolving aviation landscape, the challenge lies not just in delivering exceptional service but in doing so sustainably. As the CEO of Saxon Air, I’m proud to share how we have transformed this challenge into an opportunity, establishing ourselves as one of the UK’s leading providers of comprehensive aviation services while setting new standards for environmental responsibility.
REDEFINING AVIATION EXCELLENCE
Our journey at Saxon Air has been driven by a vision to combine operational excellence with dedication to innovation and sustainability. From our strategically positioned bases across London and East Anglia, we deliver a comprehensive suite of aviation services that cater to the evolving needs of our global clientele. Our core offerings include private jet and helicopter charters, aircraft management, flight support as well as flight training, all underpinned by our dedication to innovation and environmental stewardship.
What truly distinguishes Saxon Air in the competitive aviation market is our holistic approach to service delivery. Our aircraft
operations extend worldwide, ensuring seamless travel across Europe and beyond, while maintaining the highest standards of safety, flexibility, and discretion that our respected clientele expects.
LEADING THE CHARGE IN SUSTAINABLE AVIATION
Since 2019, Saxon Air has been at the forefront of sustainable aviation practices, implementing a comprehensive strategy that goes far beyond traditional carbon offsetting. The results of our commitment are compelling: we have achieved a 26.1% reduction in our carbon footprint, driven by a 35.6% decrease in electricity consumption and a 4% reduction in gas usage. These achievements demonstrate that determined efforts toward sustainability can yield significant environmental improvements while maintaining operational excellence.
Our collaborative efforts with Carbonside and StarCB have resulted in offsetting more than 4,400 tonnes of CO₂ in 2023 alone, supporting vital environmental projects globally. Additionally, our voluntary participation in CORSIA and UK ETS emissions reporting highlights our commitment to transparency and accountability. We believe that trust is built through openness, and we maintain this principle in all our business relationships.
One of our proudest innovations is England’s lowest-emission Flight Training Centre, where
aspiring pilots can earn their Private Pilot’s License (PPL) in the most environmentally conscious way possible. Our training program utilises a blended fleet of electric and minimal-emission aircraft that run on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). In early 2024, we integrated over 5,800 litres of SAF into our helicopter operations, achieving a remarkable 25.36% reduction in Scope 1 emissions compared to the previous year.
The installation of our solar array in February 2024 marked another significant milestone, having already prevented 132.78 tonnes of CO₂ emissions. This initiative, along with our pioneering use of the Pipistrel Velis Electro aircraft and the establishment of the first solar-powered charging station at a regional airport, showcases our passion to push the boundaries of sustainable aviation.
FOSTERING INNOVATION AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
At Saxon Air, we recognise that transforming the aviation industry demands more than technological innovation—it requires nurturing the visionaries of tomorrow. This inspired us to launch ‘Innovate Studios’ in 2024, a meaningful initiative that has already begun opportunity for young people across East Anglia. On select Saturdays, our hangar transforms into dynamic learning hub where aspiration meets opportunity, bringing together industry leaders and young talent in an
immersive STEM-focused environment.
The program has attracted fantastic partners including Lotus, Norwich Science Festival, NUNCATS, EEEGR, and DACS Design -to name a few. This created a powerful ecosystem of innovation and mentorship. During these sessions, participants do not just learn about careers—they experience them firsthand through interactive demonstrations, hands-on workshops, and valuable conversations with industry experts. The impact has been remarkable, with participants gaining unprecedented access to career pathways they might never have considered possible.
The overwhelmingly positive feedback from our sessions validates our approach, but we see this as just the beginning. We are actively seeking forward-thinking businesses to join our mission of inspiring the next generation. By becoming a partner in Innovate Studios, organisations can play a vital role in shaping the future workforce while connecting with bright, enthusiastic young minds who represent the future of innovation.
Moreover, our Business Aviation Centre has evolved into more than just a headquarters – it’s become a thriving centre for green innovation, with likeminded tenants. Through partnerships with organisations like NUNCATS, Old Buckenham, NGAT, and Swift, we are fostering a community for sustainable aviation initiatives across East Anglia and beyond.
THE LANDING: A NEW CHAPTER IN BUSINESS INNOVATION
Recognising the evolving needs of modern businesses, we launched “The Landing” in 2024 – an accessible virtual office space initiative that represents our vision to foster business growth and innovation. Operating daily from 7:30 am to 7:30 pm, The Landing offers businesses more than just a prestigious address; it provides a complete ecosystem for success, including highspeed internet, fully equipped meeting rooms, and efficient mail handling services.
Located strategically near the Broadland Northway and major transport links, The Landing exemplifies our understanding of contemporary business needs. It is designed to be more than an office space – it is a hub where businesses can thrive, innovate, and grow while maintaining their commitment to sustainability.
By choosing The Landing, businesses gain not just an office space but an opportunity to thrive in a forward-thinking community focused on growth and productivity. If you are interested to find out more, visit Saxon Air’s website.
RECOGNITION AND FUTURE VISION
Our efforts in sustainable aviation were recently recognised with the Aviation Industry’s Environmental and Sustainability Aviation Award in 2024. Receiving this award validates our belief
that sustainability and aviation excellence can coexist. However, this recognition is not the end of our journey—it is a milestone that inspires us to achieve even greater heights.
INVITATION TO COLLABORATE
As we continue to expand our horizons, we invite businesses to join us in shaping the future of aviation. Whether you are seeking aviation services, looking to participate in our sustainability initiatives, interested in our virtual office solutions, or wanting to join our ‘Innovate Studios’ program, Saxon Air offers more than services – we offer partnership in creating a more innovative aviation industry and at large a stronger business community.
LOOKING AHEAD
The future of aviation lies in the perfect balance of luxury, safety, efficiency, and sustainability. At Saxon Air, we are not just preparing for this future – we are actively creating it. Our continued investment in sustainable technologies, commitment to operational excellence, and focus on community engagement position us uniquely in the aviation sector.
At Saxon Air, we are not just reaching for the skies – we are ensuring they remain clear for generations to come.
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CORPORATE HOSPITALITY AND EVENTS IN EAST ANGLIA
A Premier Destination for Corporate Events and Hospitality
East Anglia, known for its historical and scenic beauty, is now a prominent location for corporate events. Covering Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, and Essex, it combines modern amenities with traditional features, suitable for engaging clients and employees.
The region includes varied landscapes such as coastlines, countryside, and historic towns that serve as unique settings for any event. The cities of Norwich, Cambridge, and Colchester offer venues like castles, stately homes, and contemporary conference centres, accommodating both small gatherings and large-scale conferences.
East Anglia has strong transport links, allowing easy access for attendees from different parts of the country. The region also offers quality accommodation, restaurants, and leisure activities, which provide opportunities for networking and relaxation outside of the main event activities.
East Anglia blends tradition with modern facilities, providing a setting that can inspire and facilitate connections among participants, making it a practical choice for hosting corporate events.
One key aspect of East Anglia is its accessibility, being just a couple of hours from London with excellent transport links, including major rail routes and nearby airports. This connectivity enables businesses to host events attracting participants from across the UK and beyond.
East Anglia offers a variety of venues, ranging from historic castles and stately homes to modern conference centres and boutique hotels. These venues provide the necessary facilities for meetings and conferences while offering an inspiring backdrop.
Corporate hospitality in East Anglia focuses on creating effective and memorable experiences. Many venues offer customised packages tailored to business needs, including catering options with local produce and team-building activities utilizing the region’s natural environment.
Companies can organise outdoor activities such as sailing on the Norfolk Broads or hot air ballooning over the landscapes, fostering team cohesion and providing a platform for networking in a relaxed setting.
East Anglia’s corporate hospitality sector is supported by local event management companies and service providers with extensive regional knowledge. These professionals assist with venue
sourcing, logistics, catering, and entertainment, enabling businesses to concentrate on their objectives while they handle the details.
Local suppliers often prioritise sustainability, aligning with businesses seeking to reduce their environmental impact through practices like sourcing local ingredients and implementing green initiatives in venues.
East Anglia hosts various trade shows, expos, and industry conferences throughout the year, offering businesses opportunities to showcase products and services, connect with clients, and stay informed about industry trends.
For example, the East of England Arena and Events Centre in Peterborough frequently hosts major exhibitions and fairs, drawing attention from across the UK, supporting the local economy, and positioning East Anglia as a business activity hub.
East Anglia offers numerous cultural and leisure activities for event attendees. After meetings or conferences, guests can explore historical towns like Bury St Edmunds and Ely or enjoy the Suffolk coastline’s scenery. Many venues integrate these activities into corporate hospitality packages, enhancing the event experience and offering insights into the region’s culture and history.
An annual highlight that attracts many visitors to East Anglia is the Royal Norfolk Show. Held at the Norfolk Showground, this event is renowned for showcasing the best of agriculture, food, and drink. Businesses can take advantage of the Royal Norfolk Show to host corporate hospitality events amidst a vibrant atmosphere. The show provides numerous opportunities for networking, exhibiting products, and experiencing the region’s rich agricultural heritage. With livestock displays, equestrian events, and a diverse range of exhibits, the Royal Norfolk Show adds an extra dimension to East Anglia’s appeal as a prime location for corporate gatherings.
As the demand for innovative corporate hospitality rises, East Anglia is a practical choice for businesses hosting impactful events. With its accessibility, diverse venues, local expertise, and cultural offerings, the region is well-equipped to meet modern businesses’ needs.
East Anglia’s corporate hospitality sector is positioned for growth, aiming to deliver productive and enjoyable events. For businesses looking to make a significant impact, investing in East Anglia’s corporate hospitality and event scene is a logical step.
WHY SPONSOR THE SHOW?
The Royal Norfolk Show is the UK’s largest two day county show and provides a showcase for our region’s extensive and vibrant agricultural sector, and many other industry sectors, providing you and your business with a chance to demonstrate your support for Food, Farming and the Countryside AND puts you directly in front of our many visitorsYOUR CUSTOMERS!
excellent hospitality for your guests & clients
UK’s Largest two day country show
17 sectors & themed areas
80,000+ footfall over two days
£20m economic benefit in norfolk each year
40% AB, 19% C1, 59% aged 35-64 Demographics
100s of business networking opportunities
700 businesses taking part in the show
90% of visitors say the show meets or exceeds their expectations
We have a wide range of sponsorship opportunities available for companies and organisations wishing to promote their products and services at the Show.
BIDWELLS HAVE BEEN A SHOW SPONSOR FOR OVER 20 YEARS & LOOK FORWARD TO ANOTHER 20!
“WHAT A TRIUMPH ! AN EXCELLENT SHOW. THOROUGHLY ENJOYED BY ALL MY GUESTS, THANK YOU.”
2024 Show Sponsor
“Delighted to sponsor 2025 with the same package, please!"
2024 Show Sponsor
“WE HAD A GREAT TIME AT THE SHOW, IT WAS MY FIRST VISIT, AND IT WAS TRULY A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE”
2024 Show Sponsor
THE EAST ANGLIAN GAME & COUNTRY FAIR
26th-27th April 2025
The East Anglian Game & Country Fair, an annual family event since 2004, will be held on April 26th & 27th, 2025 at Euston Estate near Thetford, off the A11.
Since moving to Euston Hall in April 2017, the fair has drawn record crowds. Euston Hall, steeped in history, offers a picturesque setting just 30 minutes from Norwich. Its convenient location near Elveden on the newly dualled A11 facilitates easy access from Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, and Essex. This venue is perfect for hosting the fair, allowing space for new attractions while preserving popular past events.
In addition to traditional activities such as clay pigeon shooting and dog shows, visitors can enjoy falconry displays, equestrian stunts, and a variety of local food stalls. The event also provides an excellent opportunity to explore Euston Hall’s gardens and historic architecture. With ample parking and family-friendly amenities, the fair promises a fun-filled day out for all ages.
WHAT’S ON?
Main Area Events
The OMG FMX Stunt Team
The Shetland Pony Grand National
Hywel Morgan (World & European
Casting Champion)
Horseboarding UK Championships
Mid Norfolk Gun Dogs
Fens Falconry
Simon Whitehead (Pakefield Ferrets)
Hound Parade
Dog Events
K9 Aqua Sports
Terrier & Lurcher Show & Terrier Racing
The Family Fun Dog Show
Gun Dog Scurry
Team Gundog Working Test Competition
Children’s Dog Show
Equestrian Events
UK Horseboarding Championships
The Shetland Pony Grand National
Suffolk Horse Society
Displays & Attractions
Simon Whitehead (Pakefield Ferrets)
The Sheep Show
Lets Go Alpacas
Breckland Landrover Club 4x4 Display
Archery
Children’s Entertainment
Wycomb Pastures Mobile Petting Farm
Starting Handle Club
Game Fair Country Kitchen
Andy Newman
Miranda Hudson (Duration Brewing)
Thuy Hoang
( MasterChef 2023 Quarter Finalist)
Michael Chamberlain
(The Victoria Inn, Holkham)
Olayemi Adelekan
(MasterChef 2022 Semi Finalist)
Jamie Mountford
(Head Chef at Swynford Manor)
Laura Whatling (TipsyJar)
Nathan Rackham (Journal Dining)
Mark Elvin
(The Courtyard Restaurant, Elveden Estate)
Katy Truss (Fabulous Food Finds)
Na Hansell (Inspiring Cooking)
Jake Garwood
(Head Chef at The Three Horseshoes, Briston)
Zane O’Donnell (Private Chef)
Nick Rapson (MasterChef 2023 & Chef at The Coach House, Middle Lodge Estate)
Jamie Hutchinson (Milton Macarons)
Sam Crisp
(The Rose & Crown, Harpley)
The Fresh Herb Salt Company
Fishing Village
Hywel Morgan
Barry Grantham & Flyology
Norfolk & Suffolk Fly Fishers’ Society
Competitions & Have A Go
Clay Shooting
Axe Throwing
Rifle Range & Archery
Fly Fishing, Coarse Fishing & Fly Casting
The Family Fun Dog Show
Live Music & Food
The Dog & Duck Pub
Lee Vann
Smoke & Fire Live Food Experience
Shopping
Over 350 shopping stands with a wide variety of products, from fashion to gun makers, fishing and home improvements. Plus crafts, antiques, wellbeing stands and countryside associations.
For ticket bookings, please visit ukgamefair.co.uk.
For inquiries regarding sponsorship, exhibiting, or volunteering opportunities, kindly contact them at info@ukgamefair.co.uk
They look forward to your participation in making this event a success.
Russell Valentino Hall
russellhall007@outlook.com
A calm workspace
Feel free to use our relaxed spaces for meetings, when you order food and drinks. Situated right opposite the coast, surrounded by meadow and sea marsh. Peace and tranquillity guaranteed.
THE BUSINESS DIRECTORY
Dream Living
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Eastern Windows & Doors
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Wright Accountancy
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Founder of The Spiral Notebook, Maria Hopwood talks to Business Insight East Anglia.
1. Can you tell us what inspired you to start The Spiral Notebook and what the journey has been like so far?
I first thought about setting up my own admin freelance business when I was made redundant in 2016, but then I got another job and didn’t think about it again until the first lockdown in 2020. At the time I had 35 years of admin experience, so felt now was definitely the right time to use that experience and go self employed. I realised working at home was ideal for me, no railway commuting making my working days longer and depleting my bank account by over £200 each month.
It felt a real luxury to be able to work from home, and definitely one I could get used to!
So I spent my extra free time researching how I could work at home permanently for myself with my experience and skills. I discovered the world of the Virtual Assistant (VA) with the plethora of valuable information available online.
For the first couple of years I was learning and working on building my business alongside my full time job back in the office. It was quite hard to do, but then in September I was able to leave my full time job to concentrate on my business full time.
I’m able to spend more time marketing, networking (in person and online events) and on LinkedIn.
2. What specific services do you offer to businesses and freelancers, and how do you tailor them to meet individual client needs?
I offer admin services to time-poor small business owners and freelancers who are
struggling to find time to do their own admin, whilst also running their business. My admin support in the background means they can concentrate on business growth, knowing their admin is in experienced hands.
Once I’m contacted by a prospective client I invite them to a complimentary Zoom discovery call to discuss their needs. I also use the call to find out more about them and their business. Before the call I will also look them up on social media and websites so I know something about them before we chat. This is also helps with the right questions to ask
My main services are Email management, Diary Management, Meeting/Travel and Event organisation and recruitment/onboarding assistance. I also offer personal admin services, so if a business owner is so busy they don’t have time for their personal admin I can help with that too. I can undertake research for holidays, activities, celebratory events and organise traces to fix things, that kind of thing.
Alongside that I also offer lifestyle admin, so if a business owner is also disorganised with their home admin I can help with that too. Perhaps they need to organise a celebration, a holiday or a gift for example, I can research/organise for them.
3. How do you ensure the quality and consistency of service provided to your clients?
I ensure we book in catch up meetings each week to give feedback and updates on the tasks I am working on. Communication between those catch ups if needed is also important to ensure a good working relationship.
There are apps I use to ensure I stick to allotted times and hours, stay organised and stick to any deadlines.
Belonging to the VA facebook groups also helps with ensuring quality and consistency as they are full of advice, tips and information to learn from.
4. What challenges have you faced in running a virtual admin assistance business, and how have you overcome them?
It was challenging working on my business when I was still in full time employment, so I had to block out a couple of hours each evening and use my weekends as full business days. It was tiring and quite difficult but I had to be persistent.
Now I’m self employed full time, I have no idea how I managed to run my business with so little free time!
5. Can you share some success stories or examples of how your services have positively impacted your clients?
One of my clients is based in Canada, she works full time and writes songs in her spare time. I support her with all the admin required to catalogue her songs, obtain copyright and update her database. She is happy to have the help with her songs as she is tight for time.
6. How do you stay updated on industry trends and best practices in virtual assistance?
I am a member of several VA facebook groups and associated websites, which are full of information and advice. I came across them during my initial research and they have been a mine of useful information.
7. What skills or qualities do you believe are essential for someone to succeed in the virtual admin assistance field?
Each VA has their own skill set, which dictates the services they offer. I love to organise and get people organised, I also have great communication skills, which are very important in a working relationship with a client. The ability to be proactive is also a good skill to have, as is understanding confidentiality and data protection.
8. How do you approach client onboarding, and what steps do you take to understand their unique requirements?
As mentioned above, when a prospective client contacts me I arrange a complimentary discovery call to discuss their needs, their business and how they like to work. Before the call I will also check out their social media and website so I know a bit about their business before we chat.
If we decide to go ahead and work together, I will send them a contract to sign and a document confirming what we discussed, the tasks they need me to help with and the start date. If I have any further questions I need clarifying I will ask them to ensure I’ve understood correctly.
9. In your opinion, what are the key advantages of using virtual admin assistance compared to traditional in-house staff?
Hiring a VA has many benefits. VA’s are a cost effective way of hiring support as they are freelancers, so don’t require office space, IT, sick pay, annual leave, or such like. A VA is also flexible, so they only need to hire one when they specifically need the support.
Productivity is another benefit, the business owner can outsource their admin and concentrate on the business side of things. I’m sure business owners didn’t go into business to do all the boring admin, they want to concentrate on what they love doing.
Outsourcing it to a VA saves them time too, which means they can then fully focus on the business side of things.
10. What plans do you have for the future of The Spiral Notebook, and how do you envision its growth?
I would love to build my business up enough so I can run my own VA agency, taking on VA associates.
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