The Phoenix Newspaper - April 2025 by The Phoenix Newspaper

Is the Labour Party Still the Champions of the Welfare State?

By Dr Tony Talburt

In 1945 when the Labour Party won the general election in Britain and formedthegovernment,they ushered in a raft of welfare programmes that have been attheheartofBritishsociety ever since.The Clement Attlee government of 19451951 introduced many new national programmes to assist in the welfare of the poor, unemployed, sick or injured, funded by the government, thatthese have generally become central features of the welfare state. It seems strange, therefore, that the current Labour government appears to be pulling back from some ofthese long-standing policies, as recently announced by the Starmer government. Is thecurrent Labour government retreating from one of its hallmarkinitiativesoristhis a case theneed to rethink how to maintain the welfare state? Some of the main policies introduced by the Labour government that came to power in 1945included the following: theFamilyAllowanceActof 1945,theNationalInsurance Act of 1946, the Industrial InjuriesActof1946,theNew Towns Act of 1946, the National Assistance Act of 1948, and perhaps the most significant of all, the National Health Service (NHS)whichwascreatedin

1948. The NHS was established in 1948 to provide free access to doctors, dentists, opticians andhospitals.Thesereforms weredesignedtotakecareof everyone'from the cradle to the grave.' The idea in the 1940s was to tackle the five giants of disease,want, squalor, ignorance and idlenes Almost eighty year later, times and conditions have changed. The government has come toofficesayingfromdayone, there is a huge financial deficit and one of its priorities is toreduce government expenditure. Perhaps because of the changing geo-political situation pertaining to the warinUkraineandPresident Trump’s repositioning of his relations withEurope, this has resulted in the need to substantially increase spending on the military budget. Reduction in spending on areas such overseas aid was also recently announced. However,thefinancialshake upofthewelfarestatesystem has been a major shock to manyinandoutsidepolitics. The government’s argument is that things cannot continue as they werebefore. The changes comprise of stricter test for personal independence payments (PIP) butnot necessarily for thosewithlong

termconditionTherewould also be a freeze from 2029/2030 for incapacity benefits which means thesepayments would no longer rise with annual inflation. There would also be changes for thoseindividuals under the age of 22. They would no longer be able to claim the incapacity benefittop-up to universal credit under these proposals. Greater emphasis would be placed ontrying to getmorepeopletotrytoget back into employment.One long-standing criticism levelled against Labour governments by conservatives is theirbig spending which usually involves higher taxes to finance such perceived grandioseschemes. Although Labour claims it is fixing a broken system, their critics argue these arethreats to the most vulnerable people. These announcements have enraged Laboursupporters who strongly defend the welfare state.The hard left labourite, like Jeremy Corbyn, has criticised Starmerfortryingtosave£5 billionattheexpenseofpoor disabled people. Dudley Labour Councillor Pete Lowe resigned from his position, as leader of the Dudley Labour Group and had left the Labour Party afterbeingamemberfor41

years. Although the Labour government claims these changes will reduceeconomic inactivityandcurbtherising benefits bill, projected to reach £377.7 billion by 2029/30,thesemeasuresseem un-labour like and a huge step away from one of its core policies.While Labour hasindeedtakenahugestep back from one of its core policies, at least it hasnot abandoneditcompletelyand will have to work hard to convincepeoplethatthiswas theonly option available to them at this time. In the short term, at least, many will be questioningwhether the Labour Party is still the champion of the welfare state.

Wreath laying honours Commonwealth Service Personnel during memorable commonwealth Day

By: HOWARD LEADER

During this year’s Commonwealth Day (March 10), crowds gathered at the Memorial Gatesin CentralLondontowitnessaceremonyhonouring servicemenandwomenfromtheCommonwealth whoservedalongsidealliedforcesduringthetwo World Wars. This wreath laying has been an annualactofcommemorationsince2002andisa keyfeature of Commonwealth Day with High Commissioners from across the Commonwealth gatheringtoughertopaytribute.Thisyearmarks the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, a conflict that drew in hundreds of millions of people and affected every continent The War saw military personnel from Commonwealth countries deployed to far-flung placesaroundtheglobeandpeopleserving

alongsidealliesfrommanynationsandcultures. The Fourteenth Army, Britain and the Commonwealth'sprinciplefightingforce,remains one ofthe most diverse military units in history with its soldiers speaking over 40 languages and representingalloftheworld'smajorreligions.The commemoration in London remembered the contributionofallthosewhosteppedforwardto serve, the hardships they endured and sacrifices they made to shape the freedoms and values we enjoytoday.PeopleoftheCommonwealthmade avitalcontributionbystandingtogethertobring that global conflict to an end.By:

Howard Leader,AssistantEditor

Alumna and honorary graduate named one of TIME Magazine’s Women of theYear 2025

University of Wolverhampton alumna and honorary graduate, Fatou Baldeh MBE, has beennamedoneofTIMEMagazine’sWomenof the Year for 2025, an honour she describes asbeing “extremely proud” and a moment that truly sunk in when surrounded by ‘incrediblewomen breaking glass ceilings’ at the West Hollywood gala.Fatou, who studied BSc (Hons) Psychology and Health Studies at the Wolverhampton City Campus between 20052009,usedthegaladinnerasaplatformtoraise awareness about Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), highlighting the 230 million girls worldwide at risk. “I was extremely proud to havehadthisplatformtostresstheneedforthe world to think about theover 230 million girls around the world who are at risk of being mutilated in the name ofculture and tradition, sheadded.”“Thisrecognitionissomeaningful.I believeinthepowerofrolemodelsespeciallyfor younggirlsandwomenandthishonoursendsa powerful message to girls, particularly those fromherbackground,thatitis‘okaytospeakup againstinjustice’.”Therecognitionamplifiesher advocacy against FGM, providing a global platform to reach wider audiences. This prestigious accolade follows Fatou’s honorary doctoratefromtheUniversityof

Wolverhampton, her Alma Mater, in 2024. Reflectingonthishonour,sheexpressedheartfelt gratitude.“I am deeply honoured to be an alumna of the University of Wolverhampton, where myacademic journey started.” Fatou added:“Thepersonalsignificanceofherdegree, amilestone her late father witnessed with immensepride,asshewasthefirstinherfamily toaccess higher education The honorary doctorate sparked widespread celebration, with ‘congratulatory messagesacross all segments of the community and country’, and extensive coverage in nationalmedia. “This recognition will forever remain one of my proudest achievements.”Fatou’s dedication to advocating against FGM and empowering young women continues toinspire and resonate globally. Her recognitionbyTIMEreinforcesherimpactand amplifiesher crucial message.The significance of her work and impact to society was recognised by Former US PresidentBarack Obama who directly acknowledged her leadership via a post on X ‘This International Women’s Day, I’m celebrating leaders like Fatou Baldeh inour @GirlsAlliance Network. Read more about her work to end female genital mutilation inGambia.’

By: HOWARD LEADER

I was an 11-year-old in the Scouts onasummercampinWaleswhena bugbitme,theeffectsofwhichlive withmestilldecadeslater.

support them by putting plants in my garden to attract and feed specific species and this has given new purpose to what I willingly admit might otherwise have just been a weekend chore confined to cutting the grass and trimming the oddhedge.

During those days filled with long hikes, forest rope swings, wide games and outdoor exploration, I begantonoticeinsects.Ofcourse,I had seen insects at home in south LondonbutthereinWales,camping andlivingamongnature,Isuddenly realised that there was a whole worldofactivitytakingplaceinthe hedgerows, verges, field margins andwoodlandgladesaboutwhichI knewnothing.

Thiswasthebeginningofalife-long interest in, principally, butterflies andmothsbutrangingmorewidely acrossotherinsectspeciesasIbegan to understand their interrelationshipandtheirimportanceto our environment, our ecology and even to our own lives. Throughout my journalistic career I have taken every opportunity to report on aspects of the natural world, especiallyiftheyinvolvedinsects. Why? Well, I have always enjoyed sharing my love of butterflies and moths with other people and find thatagoodmanyfolkwhomaynot have given them much previous thoughtsuddenly,likemeasyoung boy Scout, discover that these are amazing, beautiful and engaging creatures. Alongside telling the stories of our wonderful insects, I havefoundmyselfactivelytryingto

Myinteresthasalsogivenanadded dimension to the daily dog-walk meaningthathecantakethetimeto sniffthescentsheissoinexplicably keen on whilst I am busy checking the hedges for insects. But there is now a serious purpose to my passionwhichgivesmerealconcern and that is around the everdwindlingnumbersofinsectsinour parks,gardensandcountryside.The sadfactisthatsincethe1970s,when serious recording of butterfly populationtrendsbeganintheUK, there has been a steady decline in insectnumbersacrossthe56native Britishbutterflyspeciestothepoint thatwehavenowseenalossof80% ofourbutterflynumbersandmore than half of our native species officially declared “vulnerable to extinction”.WhenItellpeoplethis, most are truly shocked, suggesting that this decline has happened almost unnoticed as a direct result of creeping habitat destruction through development, changes in land management and farming practise and, most surprisingly, the spread of light pollution across moreandmoreofBritain.Indeed,

last year’s butterfly survey results were so low that ‘Butterfly Conservation’,theUKbutterflyand moth charity, has declared a ‘National Butterfly Emergency’ to tryandbringtheproblemtowider attention.

Despite this alarming news, however, there are nature organisations, community and youthgroupsandmanyindividuals whoarekeentotryandreversethe trend.So,thisyear,letmeinviteyou to take a walk with me through Britain’sbutterflyseason.Monthby month I would like to show you whatcouldbejustnearbyyourown home and tell you about the beautiful and exotic butterflies and mothswestillhavetheprivilegeto see in Britain. In cold, wet and windyMarchitmayseemabitodd tobetalkingaboutbutterflies,butit might surprise you to learn that some of the hardy species have already put in an appearance this year.InthesecondweekofMarch, wehadaspellofmildweatherwith some bright sunny days and I saw twospeciesthatweek,bothpassing throughmygarden.Thefirstwasa daffodil-yellow ‘Brimstone’ butterfly.Thisspeciesisamongthe earliestonthewing.

One of our medium sized British butterflies,themalesportingavery obvious yellow colour while the female is more of a cream. It is thoughtthat“butterflies”asagenre

got their group name from this butter-colouredfly. Wherever you are in the UK you standagoodchanceofseeingthese insects which I always take as a promise of spring. The Brimstone, aswellasbeingamongtheearliest, arealsolonger-livedthanmost,with their several broods through the yearmeaningthatyoumaystillspot themthroughthesummerandinto early autumn. hey enjoy the sunny sideofhedgerows,oftenvisitparks and gardens and are usually obliging if you approach slowly to take a photograph. The other species I have already seen is the Peacock.Thisisoneoftheshowiest of our native butterflies with its distinctive coloured “eyes” on the fore-wings.Theyalwayslooktome as though they may have been paintedbyoneoftheoldmasters. This species is one of those coping wellatpresent,notleastbecauseall itrequiresforitscaterpillarstoeatis thecommonstingingnettle,soitis found right across the country. It hastwoorthreebroodsthroughthe seasonwiththelastadultbutterflies emerging in the late summer and hibernating in sheds and garages, under woodpiles or anywhere else theycanfindtopassthewinterina dry, undisturbed place. Almost as soonasthesunbeginstogainsome strength in spring, they awake and set off desperate for nectar after theirlongwinterfast.Theseearly

Peacocks can look a bit faded or ragged,buttheiroffspringshouldbe withusinthesummerintheirfull glory.Fromthatinitialstirringthis monthwehaveahintofwhatisto come and, if the weather obliges withsomedrysunnydaysinApril, the British butterfly season should soon get underway. Do keep your eyes open for these early spring speciesandI’llbebackonthispage in April to continue our walk throughtheBritishButterflyseason. ButterfliestolookoutforinApril: RedAdmiral-Oneofourbestknown large butterflies, found across Britain between April and October though their numbers depend upon migrationfromthecontinent. Small Tortoiseshell - Often mistakenlyidentifiedasa"Red Admiral" though somewhat smaller,theSmallTortoiseshell canbefoundacrossBritainand the adults will often be seen feeding on Buddleia and Verbena flowers. Once a common species, Small Tortoiseshell numbers have declinedinrecentyears. Comma-Distinctivebecauseof its“ragged”wingshapewhich, when closed, disguises the butterfly as a dead leaf. The Commaissocalledbecauseofa distinctive white “comma” markingontheunderwing.This butterflyiswidespreadacross

Peacock

England and may be seen through to autumn with occasional hibernating adults appearing in sunny days in winter.

Speckled Wood - This medium sized brown butterfly is best seenontheedgesofwoodland, along hedge rows and near stands of Ash and Sycamore trees. Unlike many butterflies whoseadultsfeedonnectar,the SpeckledWoodgoestothetops of its chosen trees to feed on honeydew from the upper leaves. Three broods of this species mean that it is on the wing until early October through much of England and Ireland, with some pockets in northernScotland.

Brimstone Male

Comma

Small Tortoise Shell Speckled Wood Red Admiral

Council sets budget and vows to invest for residents

thatallowsustoinvestinourresidents and city. “We take great pride in gettingthebasicsrightasacouncilbut remain very ambitious. Weprioritise looking after vulnerable adults and providing care for children in need whileimproving educational achievement.“We’realsoboostingthe city’s economy with hundreds of millionsofpoundsofinvestmentinnew homes, new roads, new jobs, leisure activities and more. As well as delivering excellent front-line services likewastecollectionsandroad

maintenance programmes, we’re using technology to crack down on issues like fly tipping and spending an extra £500,000 to help fix potholes and maintain highways – that’s on top of the £9.2m already earmarked for ourcity highways next year. “We’re also investing in a more vibrant city centre, providing people with opportunities to getinto employment andsupportingresidentswiththecost of living.” The budget for 2025/26was approvedatlastnight'smeetingofFull Council.Themeetingheardhowthe

council has cut its savings target by almost half, reducing theamount it needs to save over the next two years from £32.6 million to £17.2 million by2026/2027. Cllr. Louise Miles, Cabinet Member for Resources, said the budgetdemonstrated the council’s abilitytomanageitsfinanceswellShe said: “Despite significant financial challenges, we have once again set a balancedbudget,showinghowthisisa well-run council that looks after taxpayers’ money well. It isthanks to thehardworkofeveryoneinvolved

thatwe’vebeenabletodeliversavings acrossthe council and reduce our deficit “We know the financial challenge hasn’t gone away and we won’t shirk the difficult decisions ahead, but we will always continue to deliver for our residents and have a positiveimpactontheirlives.”

Namibia swears in first female President

Namibia's new president, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, was sworn in to lead a country facing high rates of unemployment, inequalityandpoverty.

Shewillbedealingwithitwiththe additional burden of being only Africa's second-ever directly elected female president and Namibia's first female head of state."Ifthingsgowellthenitwill be seen as a good example," she said. "But if anything, then happens, like it can happen in any administration under men, there are also those who would rather say: 'Look at women!'" The 72year-oldwonNovember'selection witha58%shareofthevote.

expected to remain high at 17.2% in2024.

Nandi-Ndaitwahhasbeenalongterm loyalist of the South West Africa People's Organisation (Swapo) – which has been in power since the country gained independencein1990afteralong struggle against apartheid South Africa. She joined Swapo, then a liberation movement resisting SouthAfrica'swhite-minorityrule, whenshewasonly14.AWhilethe party has made changes and improved the lives of the Black majority, the legacy of apartheid can still be seen in patterns of wealth and land ownership.

"Truly, land is a serious problem inthiscountry,"shesaidaheadof theinauguration.

"Westillhavesomewhitecitizens

and more particularly the absent land owners who are occupying the land." She adds that she is committed to the "willing-buyer, willing-seller" principle, which meansno-oneisforcedtosellup. Namibia is a geographically large countrywithasmallpopulationof three million. Government statistics show that white farmers own about 70% of the country's farmland.

A total of 53,773 Namibians identified as white in the 2023 census, representing 1.8% of the country'spopulation.Thecountry isoneoftheworld'smostunequal, with a Gini coefficient of 59.1 in 2015, according to the World Bank,whichprojectspovertyis

The unemployment rate rose to 36.9%in2023from33.4%in2018, according to the country's statisticsagency.Nandi-Ndaitwah said the economy, which partly relies on mineral exports, should work more on adding value to whatthecountryextractsfromthe groundratherthanexportingraw materials.ShealsowantsNamibia to focus more on creative industries and get the education sector to adjust to new economic realities. Nandi-Ndaitwah is only the second African woman to be directly elected as president, after Liberia'sEllenJohnsonSirleaf. The continent's only other female president at the moment is Tanzania's Samia Suluhu Hassan, who took up the role after her predecessordiedinofficein2021. Nandi-Ndaitwah wants to be judgedonhermerits,butshesaid that it was a "good thing that we ascountriesarerealisingthatjust as men [can do], women can also holdthepositionofauthority".

600,000 litres of water being saved a day thanks to people videoing their leaky loos, taps and showers

Rail’songoingcommitmentt

Severn Trent customers are saving themselvesthousandsoflitresofwaterwith almost 4,000 using the water company’s Vyn (Video Your Notes) platform since its introductionlastyear.

process, as things like a dripping tap or leaky loo could add hundreds of pounds a year to a household water bill. Through Severn Trent’s Vyn platform, customers uploadvideosoftheirleaks,whicharethen senttoourteamofengineerstoreviewthe footage.Onceanengineerhastakenalook at the video, they contact the customer to book a visit within the next few days to repair the leak – all completely free of charge!

Kelsey Martin, Workstream Manager at Severn Trent said: “It’s great to see people taking action to spot and fix leaks as soon as they can through the Vyn platform. “Fixing leaks is one of those jobs that can easilybeputoffaspeoplegetonwiththeir day to day lives, but it’s important to get them fixed as soon as possible, as these leaks can make a substantial difference to people’swaterbills.OurVynplatformhas

already been a massive help to thousands of customers,helpingthemsorttheirleaksassoon as possible to ease any worries they have and saving millions of litres in the process. “The platform means our engineers are able to see exactlywhattheissueis,ratherthancustomers trying to explain over the phone.” If a Severn Trent engineer isn’t able to support with the repair,theywillputthecustomerintouchwith aWaterSafeaccreditedplumberinthearea.

Each year Commonwealth Day is celebrated across the 56 member countries with events taking place from10thMarch,untiltheendofthe month.

These events will include civic and faithgatherings,activitiesinschools, flag raising ceremonies and cultural celebrations. Commonwealth Day is to remind member nations of the mutual importance of the Commonwealth to citizens of its member nations, as captured in this year's Commonwealth theme "TogetherWeThrive".

The theme is a reminder that the Commonwealthismadeupfrom56 independent member countries unitedbysharedvaluesenshrinedin the Commonwealth Charter, rooted intheprinciplesoffamily,unityand peace. The theme highlights the importance of fostering strong and connectedcommunitiesthatsupport and empower their members, enablingmeaningfulprogress.

To mark Commonwealth Day, His Majesty King Charles, Head of the Commonwealth,sentthismessageto

Commonwealth Citizens: "Last October, leaders from across the Commonwealth came together in Samoatoreaffirmtheir‘beliefinthe value of the Commonwealth as a trustedforumwherediversevoicesof ourmemberstates,thelargeandthe small, the young and the old, come together as one family’. These gatheringsareimportantforhelping allCommonwealthnationstotackle the challenges of the day, yet they alsoplayanothervitalrole.Inthese uncertain times, where it is all too easy to believe that our differences are problems instead of a source of strength and an opportunity for learning, the Commonwealth’s remarkablecollectionofnationsand peoplescometogetherinthespiritof support and, crucially, friendship.

“Thisyear,theworldreflectsonthe eightieth anniversary of the end of WorldWar2.Morethanone-and-ahalf million men and women who served during the War came from across the Commonwealth to supporttheUnitedKingdomandits allies.Onthisspecialanniversary,we

remember with particular pride and everlasting gratitude the untold sacrifice and selflessness of so many fromaroundourFamilyofNations whogavetheirlivesinthatdreadful conflict. The Commonwealth’s abilitytobringtogetherpeoplefrom allovertheworldhasstoodthetest of time and remains as everimportant today. Leaders recently reiterated the importance of collaboration for peace and human rights, as well as for the restoration of Nature both on land and in the oceans. “As we mark this Commonwealth Day together, there is no more important task than to restorethedisruptedharmonyofour entire planet. For the sake of our younger generations’ threatened future, I can only hope that the Commonwealthwillcontinueitsvital worktorestorethatharmony."

Council sets budget and Council sets budget and vows to invest for residents vows to invest for residents

Fillingpotholes,tacklingflytippingandcreatingamorevibrantcitycentre areamongthetopprioritiesfortheCityofWolverhamptonCouncilasit plans for the year ahead.That’s the commitment from Council Leader Stephen Simkins after budget plans for 2025/26 were agreed. Councillor Simkinssaidthatbymanagingitsfinancialchallengewell,thecouncilcould continue to deliver excellent services and invest in what matters most toresidents.He said: “We’re delighted to set a budget for next year that allowsustoinvestinourresidentsandcity.“Wetakegreatprideingetting the basics right as a council but remain very ambitious. We prioritise lookingaftervulnerableadultsandprovidingcareforchildreninneedwhile improvingeducationalachievement.“We’realsoboostingthecity’seconomy withhundredsofmillionsofpoundsofinvestmentinnewhomes,newroads, newjobs,leisureactivitiesandmore.Aswellasdeliveringexcellentfront-line services like waste collections and road maintenance programmes, we’re usingtechnologytocrackdownonissueslikeflytippingandspendingan extra£500,000tohelpfixpotholesandmaintainhighways–that’sontopof the£9.2malreadyearmarkedforourcityhighwaysnextyear.“We’realso investinginamorevibrantcitycentre,providingpeoplewithopportunities togetintoemploymentandsupportingresidentswiththecostofliving.”The budgetfor2025/26wasapprovedatlastnight'smeetingofFullCouncil.The meetingheardhowthecouncilhascutitssavingstargetbyalmosthalf, reducingtheamountitneedstosaveoverthenexttwoyearsfrom£32.6 millionto£17.2millionby2026/2027.Cllr.LouiseMiles,CabinetMember forResources,saidthebudgetdemonstratedthecouncil’sabilitytomanage itsfinanceswell.Shesaid:“Despitesignificantfinancialchallenges,wehave onceagainsetabalancedbudget,showinghowthisisawell-runcouncilthat looksaftertaxpayers’moneywell.Itisthankstothehardworkofeveryone involvedthatwe’vebeenabletodeliversavingsacrossthecouncilandreduce ourdeficit.“Weknowthefinancialchallengehasn’tgoneawayandwewon’t shirkthedifficultdecisionsahead,butwewillalwayscontinuetodeliverfor ourresidentsandhaveapositiveimpactontheirlives.”

Birmingham and Solihull learners have been raising money for Queen Elizabeth Hospitals Birmingham Charity, Heartlands Hospital Charity, Good HopeHospitalCharity,SolihullHospital Charitywithawiderangeoffundraising activities, including bake sales, summer fayres, and Christmas carol concerts at thehospitals.

Collectively, the nine Summit Learning Trustschoolshaveraised£15,120forthe charity, after choosing them as their chosen charity for 2024 based on their amazing work in the local community. Learners took part in a wide range of activitiestofundraise,includingthenine Summit Challenge walkathon, summer fayres, carolling in the hospitals during Christmas,andcharitybakesalesin

school and college. Summit Learning Trust encourages its learners to be charitable and giving to others, and many learners were particularly excited tobefundraisingforacharitywhichthey or their families have previously used. From tiny newborns on the Neonatal Unit, to elderly patients living with dementia, the Charity supports two millionpatientsandtheirfamilies,aswell as 25,000+ members of hospital staff, every year. They provide 'added extras' that are over and above what the NHS provides as standard, including helping to refurbish facilities, purchase vital, state-of-the-art equipment, fund lifesaving research and more. The Charity also supports our armed forces by runningFisherHouseUK,a"home

awayfromhome"formilitaryfamiliesat Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, home to the Royal Centre for Defence Medicine.VinceGreen,CEOofSummit Learning Trust, said: “The charitable effortsofourlearnersinordertoimpact positively on our communities through University Hospitals Birmingham is reallyinspiringtosee.

“I know that this money will make a difference to many who are in hospital andtotheirfamiliesandwelook

forward to continuing to support our local charities for many years to come”. Mike Hammond, the Charity’s Chief Executive,said,“WhatSummitLearning Trust have achieved is incredible. “Their hard work and dedication is inspiring and will make a huge difference to the patients and their families that benefit fromwhatweareabletoprovide,thanks to this donation. On behalf of everyone at the Charity, I’d like to say a huge thankyoutoeveryoneinvolved.”

Vertu provided one long-time BirminghamCityfanwithanight to remember after helping to organise a VIP experience at the recenthomegameagainst Cambridge United. Life-long Blues fan Joyce Green once lived onTiltonRoad,whichbacksonto TheTiltonendoftheStAndrew’s @ Knightshead Park ground and is a customer of Bristol Street Motors,partofVertuMotorsplc.

After Joyce’s grandson Jack FiggettgotintouchwithVertuto tellherstory,the89-year-oldwas invitedtoattendtheEFLLeague

One encounter with Cambridge alongside Jack and her husband Gary Green for a special match nightexperience.

Thetriowerechauffeuredtothe

ground in an all-new Ford Capri from Ford Redditch by John Brookes, a Sales Executive at the dealership, before being greeted on arrival by the Club’s newlynamedInterimCEOJeremyDale. Fromthere,Joyceandherfamily were taken to the Boardroom hospitality suite to enjoy a prematch meal created by Michelin star chef Glynn Purnell, before taking their seats for a crucial gameinBirminghamCity’squest to secure promotion back to the Championship.Goals from Jay Stansfield, Kieran Dowell and Luke Harris – alongside an own goalfromLiamBennett–sawthe Blues move further clear at the top of the table as they extended theirunbeatenrunintheleague,

giving plenty of reason for celebration as Joyce, Gary and Jack were then driven home to round out a memorable evening.

Jack Figgett said: “I can’t thank Vertu enough for organising this experience for my grandparents, andeveryoneatBirminghamCity forbeingsoaccommodating.

“I also have to thank John because from the moment he collected us in the Ford Capri to the moment he dropped us back home, he couldn’t do enough for us. Talking to Jeremy Dale when wearrivedandthenenjoyingsuch a fantastic meal before kick-off was unbelievable, and then when it came to the actual game, the Club even made sure that my grandparentswereoffered

blankets, so they didn’t get cold.“A 4-0 win for the Blues made the whole experience even more special, and we now have memories of the day that we will neverforget.”JohnBrookes,Sales ExecutiveatBristolStreetMotors FordRedditch,said:“Itwasgreat to spend time with Joyce, Gary and Jack, and to play a part in them enjoying such a superb experience.

“On the way home from St Andrew’s, they couldn’t stop talkingabouthowfantasticithad been and it’s brilliant that our partnershipwithBirminghamCity FC has allowed us to reward a very deserving fan in this way.”

VertuMotorsisthefourthlargest automotiveretailerintheUK

with a network of 202 sales outlets across the UK.Its dealerships operate predominantly under the Bristol Street Motors and Vertu brand names. Vertu Motors was established in November 2006withthestrategytoconsolidatethe UKmotorretailsector.

It is intended that the Group will continue to acquire motor retail operations to grow a scaled dealership group.TheGroup’sacquisitionstrategy is supplemented by a focused organic growth strategy to drive operational efficiencies through its national dealershipnetwork.

The Group currently operates 199 franchised sales outlets and 3 nonfranchised sales operations from 153 locations across the UK. Vertu's Mission Statement is to "deliver an outstanding customer motoring experiencethroughhonestyandtrust".

Virgin Atlantic and Joby Partner to launch electric air taxi service in the U.K.

This collaboration aims to provide zeroemission, short-range flights, initially connecting regional and urban destinationsfromVirginAtlantic’shubsat Heathrow and Manchester airports. As partoftheagreement,VirginAtlanticwill promotetheservicetoitscustomers,assist inregulatorydiscussions,andsupportthe development of essential landing infrastructureatmajorairports. Theinitiativealignswithbroaderindustry

efforts to enhance sustainable travel options while improving urban mobility.

DeltaAirLines,whichholdsa49%stake inVirginAtlantic,previouslyinvested$60 million in Joby in 2022 and has its own plansforanelectricairtaxiserviceinNew YorkandLosAngeles.

Delta’s CEO, Ed Bastian, highlighted the potential of this technology during a keynote address at CES earlier this year. VirginAtlanticcustomerswillbeableto

bookflightsonJoby’saircraftthroughthe airline’s mobile app, website, and other digitalplatforms.

The electric aircraft, designed to carry a pilot and four passengers, could enable rapid connections such as a 15-minute flight from Manchester Airport to Leeds or an eight-minute journey from Heathrow to Canary Wharf. Joby is working to develop a network of landing sites across the U.K. to make urban air travelaviablealternative

topremiumgroundtransportation. Thecompanyaimstoofferpricingcompetitive with high-end ridesharing options, making air taxis accessible to a broader audience. Unlike somecompetitorsintheelectricverticaltake-off and landing (eVTOL) sector, Joby has maintained financial stability, securing $500 millioninfundingfromToyotalastyear. Thecompanyisalsoexpandingglobally,witha recent agreement with Dubai’s Road and Transport Authority to introduce electric air taxisintheemirateby2026

Walking, wheeling and cycling plan set for approval for city

Aplantodevelopanetwork of walking, wheeling and cyclingroutestoimproveair quality, cut traffic and encourage active lifestyles is set to be backed by City of Wolverhampton Council leaders.

Thecouncil’scabinetwillbe asked to support the Black Country Walking, Wheeling and Cycling Plan at its meeting on March 19. The collaborative blueprint involves all four Black Country councils and is for an interconnected network ofactivetravelroutesacross theregionItwillmake

walking, cycling and wheeling – such as using a wheelchair, or electric mobility scooter – a more attractive option, particularly for short journeys. Projects include safe segregated cycle lanes, better footpaths, intelligent lighting,morecycleparking, conveniently located pedestrian crossings and more accessible routes for users of wheelchairs and speciallyadaptedcycles.Ina consultation on the plan 86 per cent of respondents either agreed or strongly agreedthatitwouldbe

valuable to have a walking, wheeling and cycling network in the Black Country. Councillor Qaiser Azeem,CabinetMemberfor TransportandGreenCityat City of Wolverhampton Council, said: “The travel options we provide for people have an impact on everything from traffic congestionandairpollution to the local economy and our health.“Establishing a network of walking, wheelingandcyclingroutes aligns with the priorities we have set out in Wolverhamptontocreate

well-connected neighbourhoods with healthy inclusive communities, while helping towardsthecity-widegoalof becomingnetzeroby2041.”

In Wolverhampton active travel schemes in the plan include:

Bentley Bridge to Darlaston

Fordhouses to Heathtown

City Centre to Lower Penn

CityCentretoPerton

Smestow Valley Leisure Route RingRoad West Park to Whitmore Reans

ParkVillage i54

Itisanticipatedmostofthe funding to develop and deliver projects will come fromexternalgrants.Cityof Wolverhampton Council and Walsall Council are currently working together to create a new cycle route fromNooseLanetoPinson Road, along the A454 Willenhall Road and SomerfordPlace.This£2.5m project is funded through the Active Travel Fund, providedbytheDepartment for Transport and the Further City Region Sustainable Transport Settlements (CRSTS)specifically outlined for transport schemes such as this.

Leeds Beckett University launches BCC Planning Scholarship

Delivered in partnership with the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), the scholarship launchesinSeptember2025.

LeedsBeckettUniversityisdelightedtoannounce it’s partnering with the RTPI and British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) to offer the first postgraduate scholarship in its history. The scholarship will be for one full-time Master’s student taking the MA Town and Regional Planning at Leeds Beckett’s School of Built Environment, Engineering and Computing, and willbeaone-timeawardof£10,100,coveringthe fullcoursefee.

Itformspartofagovernmentandindustrypush to boost capacity in the planning system and to train more town planners. The government’s spring budget committed £3m to a skills and education programme, delivered by the RTPI. YouIt forms part of a government and industry pushtoboostcapacityintheplanningsystemand to train more town planners. The government’s spring budget committed £3m to a skills and educationprogramme,deliveredbytheRTPI.

In addition to the scholarship funding, the programwillalsolooktoprovideworkexperience and mentoring opportunities. Recipients of the scholarshipwillalsobehelpedtoworkinacouncil planning role for a minimum of two years upon completionoftheirstudies.

Simon Creer, Director of Communications and External Affairs at RTPI welcomed the scholarshipfunding:“Thisnewfull-feescholarship isarealgame-changer,andithasgreatpotential.

“Planningisanexcitingcareerforanyonelooking to shape their world and their communities. I’d encourageanyonewhoisinterestedtoseekmore informationaboutthisscheme.”

CharlotteMorphet,SeniorLecturerinPlanningat LeedsBeckett,added:“LeedsBeckettUniversityis proud to offer the BCC Scholarship, widening accesstopostgraduatestudyontheMAinTown andRegionalPlanning.

“Atatimewhenlocalgovernmenturgentlyneeds more professional planners, this support is more crucialthanever.”Youcanfindoutmoreabout the MA in Town and Regional Planning or join the26MarchPostgraduateOpenDay.

Aschoolwhichhas'highambitionforall pupils' has been judged to be Good by Ofsted.

Inspectors visited Edward the Elder Primary School last month and, in their report published this week, found that everyone 'subscribes to the values of partnershipforachievement'.Staff,pupils andparents'arerighttobeproudoftheir school', with pupils achieving 'high standards' in reading, writing and mathematics.

Staff hold 'consistently high expectations' for how pupils should behave, and they aredescribedas'verypoliteandfriendly' andpraisedforthewaythey'concentrate and listen well'. The curriculum is 'well thoughtthroughwithcarefullyconsidered concepts, knowledge and vocabulary identified'. Theschool,partofElstonHall LearningTrust,prioritisesreading,with

staff 'experts in early reading' and pupils achieving high standards in the subject. Edward the Elder is a 'very inclusive school with ambition for pupils with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND)'.

Pupils with SEND are identified swiftly andsupportisintroducedtohelpthemto succeed. As a result, pupils with SEND 'achieve well'. The school also 'places importanceonbuildingpupils’character', with residential visits and a range of inclusive extra-curricular activities and visits which 'enrich the curriculum'. EdwardtheElderis'highlyvisibleinthe local community', regularly involving parentsandcarersinpupils’learning,and governors and trustees know their roles and responsibilities well, having 'an indepthunderstandingoftheworkofthe

Ipswich school children gifted hi-vis

kit bags to stay safe on roads

school,improveairqualityintheirneighbourhoodanddiscoverhowthesechanges benefittheirworld. Thekitbagsdonatedbythehousebuilderwillhelpchildrenstandouttodriversand otherroadusers,particularlyduringearlymorningandlateafternooncommutes. LocatednearDavidWilsonHomes’HenleyGatedevelopment,CastleHillInfantand JuniorSchoolisthelatestrecipientofthehomebuilder’scommitmenttopromoting communitysafety.ThisinitiativeispartofanannualnationwidecampaignbyDavid WilsonHomesto

t

providehi-visitemstoschoolsacrossthecountry.JenniferSmith,Headteacherat CastleHillInfantandJuniorSchoolsaid:“Ourschoolrulesencouragechildrentobe ready,respectfulandsafe.“Therefore,weareappreciativeofthiskinddonationwhich helpstosupportthechildrentobesafeinthecommunitytoo.”TomWright,Managing DirectoratDavidWilsonHomesEasternCounties,said:“Withthedaysgettinglonger, it’sstillimportantforchildrentoremainvisibleduringtheirjourneystoandfrom school.

“We’repleasedtosupportCastleHillInfantandJuniorSchoolwiththesehi-viskit bags,helpingpupilsstaysafeontheroadsthroughouttheyear.”HenleyGateishome toamixoftwotofivebedroomproperties,locatedonOxlipBoulevardinIpswich.

school'.

Inspectors concluded that Edward the Elder Primary School has taken effective actiontomaintainthestandardsidentified atitslastinspectionin2019,whenitwas judged to be Good. Headteacher Bridget Highmansaid:"Weareabsolutelythrilled with the outcome of our recent Ofsted inspection. Ad“This result reflects the hardwork,dedicationandcommitmentof our talented staff, governors, supportive families, and, most importantly, our wonderfulpupilsatTeamEdwards.Itisa testament to the strong community spirit we have here and throughout our Trust, andwewillcontinuetoworktogetherto provide the best possible learning environmentforeverychildinourcare."

Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of WolverhamptonCouncil'sCabinet

"I would like to congratulate Bridget Highman, her leadership team and staff, the governors and trustees and of course theparentsandpupilsontheircontinuing success."

MemberforChildren,YoungPeopleand Education, added: "This is an excellent report about a school which has high expectations for its pupils, and which is supporting them to achieve these high expectations.

EDUCATION, TRAINING AND RECRUITMENT

Education Minister, Itoo, moves to set up private universities in Jammu and Kashmir

The Higher Education Department of Jammu and Kashmir has drafted a policy to establish private universities intheregion.

Thepolicywillcomeintoeffectonceit receives approval from the relevant authorities,EducationMinisterSakina Itoo told the Jammu and Kashmir LegislativeAssembly.Theministersaid thedepartmenthaspreparedthepolicy, and after relevant approvals, it would enable the creation of private universitiesintheUnionTerritory.

Atpresent,JammuandKashmirhas11 universities—nine state-run and two central universities. Meanwhile, the region’s first crowdfunded university, the University of WathHarbor, has beenofficiallyannounced.

Built entirely through public contributions,itwillbeauniversity"by the people, for the people." The institutionwillfocusonadvancedfields suchasArtificialIntelligence,Robotics, and Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies, equipping Kashmir’s youthwithgloballycompetitiveskills. Theuniversity’sboardcomprisesa

prominent group of academicians, professionals and social leaders, including Dr Mehboob Makhdoomi, Founder and Chair of the Trust; Dr Mushtaq Marghoob, Trustee and FormerProfessorandHeadofthePG Department of Psychiatry at GMC; SyedHumayunQaiser,Trusteeand

Spokesperson,andFormerDirectorof RadioKashmir;poetandsocialactivist

Zareef Ahmad Zareef; Syed Parvez Qalander, Consultant and Chartered Engineer; Latief U Zaman Deva, retired IAS officer and Former ChairpersonofJKPSC;KhairUlNisa Sheikh, Principal Advisor to the ChairmanandExecutiveDirectorof

University of The Bahamas students partner with Blue Lagoon Island toidentify and label native flora

Blue Lagoon Island, a premier tourism destination in The Bahamas, is deepening itscommitmenttoenvironmentaleducation and sustainability by partnering with the UniversityofTheBahamastoidentifyand label the diverse plant and tree species foundacrosstheisland.

The initiative is aimed at enhancing the visitor experience by providing valuable insight into the rich biodiversity of Bahamianflora.Aspartoftheirfieldwork, studentsareconductingadetailedsurveyof the island’s plant life, identifying a wide rangeofnativespeciesandtheirecological significance. Their efforts will lead to the creation of informative labels placed throughout Blue Lagoon Island, allowing guests to learn more about the ecological importanceofnativetreesandplants.“Our naturalenvironmentisacrucialpartof

whatmakesTheBahamasandourislandso

special,” said Te-Shalla Clarke, Education and Sustainability Officer at Blue Lagoon Island.

“Through this collaboration with the University of The Bahamas, we are not only providing students with hands-on learning opportunities but also enriching our guests’ appreciation of the island’s unique ecosystem.” The project also highlights the important role native trees playinprotectinglocalwildlife,supporting coastal resilience and preserving biodiversity. n fact, Blue Lagoon Island is an officially designated Important Bird Area (IBA), home to over 70 native and migratory bird species. Its indigenous coppice forest provides essential food and shelter,makingitavitalhabitatyear-round forthebirdpopulation.

Students have explored the environmental andsocialbenefitsoftheseplants,including their potential medicinal properties and their impact on the tourism experience.

“One of the most interesting things we’ve learned is how to identify different trees based on their leaves, fruit and even their locationnearthewater,”commentedCory Rolle, one of the University of The Bahamas students participating in the project. “It’s exciting to take what we’ve studiedintheclassroomandapplyitinthe field, especially in such a beautiful and diverse environment like Blue Lagoon Island.” Blue Lagoon Island continues to champion environmental sustainability by promoting conservation, education and responsibletourism. Through this collaboration, visitors will gainadeeperunderstandingand

World Trade Centre, India; Mushtaaque Ali Ahmad Khan, Media Coordinator, TV Producer, and Filmmaker; Riyaz Ahmad Shoga, AccountsOfficer,FormerBanker,and Social Worker; G N Var, President of the Private School Association; and FaheemAbdullah,anartist. Theprojectleadershavesaidthe

project will not be profit-driven but a community-led initiative dedicated to education,research,andsocialempowerment. Jammu and Kashmir’s 11 government universities currently serve around 1.5 lakh students, but private sector participation in highereducationremainslimited.

As a result, thousands of students leave the Union Territory each year for higher studies elsewhere.

appreciation of the island’s diverse native flora. Blue Lagoon Island stands at the forefrontofanimalcareandenvironmental stewardship in The Bahamas. As the first facility in the country to achieve certification from the American Humane Conservation program, it proudly maintainsitsHumaneCertifiedstatus,with reaccreditationearnedinMarch2024.The islandisalsoaccreditedbytheAllianceof Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums andholdsmembershipintheInternational Marine Animal Trainers’ Association (IMATA).

Celebrated for its innovative educational programs,BlueLagoonIslandisarecipient of the prestigious Bahamian Cacique AwardandaproudmemberoftheGlobal Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), demonstratingitsdedicationtosustainable tourismandconservation.

Throughacompellingnarrative,theproductionhighlightsthemesofidentity, Throughacompellingnarrative,theproductionhighlightsthemesofidentity, resistance,andresilience,infusingeverymomentwithbothhumourandheart. resistance,andresilience,infusingeverymomentwithbothhumourandheart.

In the second city for two nights, during its Birmingham Rep. show the

In the second city for two nights, during its Birmingham Rep. show the powerful stage production of ‘Jamaica Love’ had packed-out audiences powerful stage production of ‘Jamaica Love’ had packed-out audiences joyously dancing in their seats, during a show that was a time-capsule that joyously dancing in their seats, during a show that was a time-capsule that beautifullycommemoratesanenthrallingmusicalmarkingthe76thanniversary beautifullycommemoratesanenthrallingmusicalmarkingthe76thanniversary oftheWindrusharrival,andbeyond.Thispowerfulproductionwillhaveyou oftheWindrusharrival,andbeyond.Thispowerfulproductionwillhaveyou dancinginyourseats. dancinginyourseats.

Anin-depthcelebrationofnationalidentity,resistanceandresilience,toldwith Anin-depthcelebrationofnationalidentity,resistanceandresilience,toldwith humour and pathos, as the evocative musical soundtrack depicted the tussle humour and pathos, as the evocative musical soundtrack depicted the tussle between resistance and seeking acceptance both in the motherland and in between resistance and seeking acceptance both in the motherland and in Britainanditspsychologicaltollonpersonalandnationalidentities.Withan Britainanditspsychologicaltollonpersonalandnationalidentities.Withan ensemblecastthatcomprisesofstellarstorytellers,includingNathanielMartinensemblecastthatcomprisesofstellarstorytellers,includingNathanielMartinThomasandD’AdrianTomlin,NicoleDayes,KameshaFrancis,andAllison ThomasandD’AdrianTomlin,NicoleDayes,KameshaFrancis,andAllison Mason,thenewhitshowalsofeatureshit-makingReggaestarJohnMcLean, Mason,thenewhitshowalsofeatureshit-makingReggaestarJohnMcLean, and Black Voices’ Celia Wickham-Anderson, with the vibrant sounds of the and Black Voices’ Celia Wickham-Anderson, with the vibrant sounds of the amazingliveband,whichtookyouonajourneythroughtheCaribbean’srich amazingliveband,whichtookyouonajourneythroughtheCaribbean’srich musicalheritage—fromSkaandRocksteady,toRoots,Reggae,LoversRock musicalheritage—fromSkaandRocksteady,toRoots,Reggae,LoversRock andmuchmoresince. andmuchmoresince.

Onsocialmedia,one‘JamaicaLove’fan,CarolJ.Reid,describedtheshowas Onsocialmedia,one‘JamaicaLove’fan,CarolJ.Reid,describedtheshowas “stunning, and an amazing celebration of cultural resilience, of Caribbean “stunning, and an amazing celebration of cultural resilience, of Caribbean people in the UK. Lots of fun and the perfect way of connecting younger people in the UK. Lots of fun and the perfect way of connecting younger generationstohistory-inajoyfulandplayfulway!”Writtenanddirectedby generationstohistory-inajoyfulandplayfulway!”Writtenanddirectedby Mervyn Weirv and produced by Marge Lowhar, the incredibly entertaining Mervyn Weirv and produced by Marge Lowhar, the incredibly entertaining showwasnominatedforBestMusicalProductionattheBlackBritishTheatre showwasnominatedforBestMusicalProductionattheBlackBritishTheatre Awards. Awards.

Being set for The Wolverhampton Grand Theatre on 4th May 2025, as it

Being set for The Wolverhampton Grand Theatre on 4th May 2025, as it weaves together the rich historical tapestry of Britain and the Caribbean, weaves together the rich historical tapestry of Britain and the Caribbean, Birminghamcoulddowithmuch,muchmore‘JamaicaLove’! Birminghamcoulddowithmuch,muchmore‘JamaicaLove’!

Sendyourstoriestonewsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

JosephineWilliams-Brown JamaicabasicschoolfoundationKhoriHyde VMGroupLadyLesa

Thomas DRMarciaMclaughlin

Special 75th Birthday Celebration of Ms Delores Pinckney

The venue was the Conference Suites at Thomas Street, West Bromwich where tables and chairs were lavishly decked outwith a variety of beverages as a variety of multi-coloured lights intermittently flashed overhead. A select number of invited guests were making their way to attend the prestigious 75th birthday party of Ms Delores Pinckney – a lovely, kind and giving lady who is well known and respectedthroughoutthecommunity. Guests were treated to a selection of oldschool soul and reggae music until the arrivalofMsPinckney,wholookedsimply radiantinherbeautifullysilverattireasshe moved between tables to meet and greet. Following a number of speeches from Mr Handsworth,thefestivitiesbeganinearnest when everyone was asked to form an orderly queue to selecttheir dinner from a traditional Caribbean menu of curried mutton with rice ‘n peas, fried dumplings with salad/coleslaw with alternative fried chicken or fish. A selection of fruit dessert wereavailableforanyonewhowantedthis. Afterwards the music was amped up as guestsmadetheirwaytothedancefloor.It was a great evening of celebratory vibes in honourofMsPinckney.

HappyBirthdayDelores!

The Caribbean steps it up at ITB Berlin

The Caribbean made waves on the internationalstagewithastrongpresence lastweekatITBBerlininGermany,one oftheworld’slargesttraveltradeshows. Numerous Caribbean destinations showcasedtheirlatestofferings,explored partnerships, and worked to expand air accessandtourismmarkets.DonaRegisProsper,Secretary-General&CEOofthe CaribbeanTourismOrganization(CTO), a long with Florian Valmy-Devillers, Business Development Director of the CTO Chapter – UK & Europe, and Narendra Ramgulam, CTO Sustainable Tourism Consultant, kept up the pace –bothfigurativelyandliterally–asthey

navigated back-to-back meetings and conversationsacrossthesprawlingMesse Berlinexhibitiongrounds.Emphasizedthe importance of active engagement, RegisProspersaid“Tourismisnotaspectator sport.

“To win in this highly competitive industry, we must be in the game –actively marketing our destinations and forging strategic connections. While virtual engagement and remote work became indispensable during the pandemic – and remain helpful tools for accomplishing our goals – nothing replaces the power of being present, havingin-personconversations,shaking

hands, and building relationships.”

Beyond networking, ITB Berlin was also a moment of celebration for the Caribbean, as CTO, Regis-Prosper, and severalofherregionalcolleaguestooktop honors at the 25th Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA) World Tourism & Aviation Leaders’ Summit and the PATWA International Travel Awards. These recognitions underscore the Caribbean’s leadership and commitment to shaping the future of globaltourism.

Working selflessly for years now, Dr Paresh Rughani has dedicated his life to serving many communities around the world, as a highly sought-after motivational speaker and volunteer worker.

Equally, he’s also a leading figure behind various Humanitarian Relief ProjectsthroughouttheUKand,more so,aroundthewiderworld.Prominent in many temples, churches and other places of worship, whilst presently in Abu Dabi, he’s there where they’re building a Hindu Temple – to be opened by Indian Prime Minister NarendraModi, BringingtotheforetheMuslim-Hindu harmony that’s prevalent in the country, 2.4 million people have alreadyvisitedit.And,forDr.Paresh:

“It’s my passion to help people,” he quiteproudlysays.

Doing voluntary work in customer relations, the Global Ambassador of theCommonwealthEntrepreneurClub did aide work during the opening of Temples in Kenya, Tanzania and South Africa. As such, at the famous BAPSShriSwaminarayanMandir,in

London – otherwise known as the Neasden Temple (which is next to Wembley Stadium, and is also connected to the BAPS Shri SwaminarayanMandir,inHallGreen, Birmingham), he was one who celebratedduringthelastDiwali–ina suite,inWembleyStadiumitself.

AnMBAProfessorofManagementat theUniversityofLondon,hewasborn inTanzania,inEastAfrica,beforehis family settled in Leicester, in the East Midlands,andwasalwaysinspiredby Mahatma Gandhi, who he always remembered saying: “If you want to find yourself, you have to lose yourself.”And,aswithmanyIndians, he was encouraged to be a ‘D.A.D.’ (Doctor,Accountant,orDentist).

PareshgainedhisAccountancydegree at Nottingham University before worked in several accountancy firms.

Buthewasn’treallyhappy.

“It was when doing my accountancy, finance and lecturing profession in India,” he recalled, “the opening of oneofthebiggesttemplesinIndiaalso coincidedwithmybirthday.”

“WhilstinIndia,Iwasexpectinga

The Making of Global Humanitarian and

‘M.A.D.’ Man, Dr.

Paresh

Rughani

phone call from my mother and brother - as they did every year. That time,though,theydidn’t,andIwasn’t goingtoeatuntiltheydid.

“What sadly transpired was that my nephewpassedawayonthatday,and wehadtoacceptthatithappenedfora reason.WhenIreturnedtotheUK,I visited a Harley Street specialist, who confirmed that his nephew’s standard of life would have been limited, if he survived.”Butthatwasn’ttheendfor Dr. Paresh, who went on: “During 2005-7 one of my sisters also passed away,withdementia.

“Justmonthsafter,herdaughter–my niece–whowasadoctor,alsopassed away.Asdifficultasitwastodigest,I was determined to think as positively asIcould!

“So, I began to do a lot of philanthropic work. It’s what our Guruencouraged. Andwiththat,anotherofhismantras transpired:“Inthejoyofothers,light theworld,andintheprogressofothers lightourown.”Hebeganreadingalot of motivational books to help me overcomethetragedies,keephismind

occupiedandexpandshisknowledge.

“It’s not what happens to you that counts,” he says, “it’s what you do about what happened to you.” He worked as a lecturer at the BBP Professional Accountancy College in Birmingham, where another mantra manifesteditself:‘AspiretoInspiring–BeforeIExpire’!” Hewasthinkingmoreabouttheworld andlessabouthimself,and,from2007, he became a member of the PSA (Professional Speakers Association).

Dr. Paresh has been doing motivational speaking: “I’m all about ‘giving’ now – like going to old people’shomesandhelpingthemwith theirbasicneeds.

“I all about giving people H.O.P.E. (Help Our Planet Earth, or Help Our People Empower) and inspiration to carryonandtogetL.O.V.E.(LetOut Violence End), before turning to G.O.D. (Guaranteed Overnight Deliver)forpositiveoutcomes.Awardwinning international motivational speaker and visiting professor in Executive Leadership and ManagementProgrammes,Dr.

Paresh’s impressive list of awards includes: the ‘Pride of India Award’ (2019), ‘Stardust Global Icon Award’ (2018),the‘JewelofIndia/HindRattan Award’ (2018), the ‘Global Citizen Forum Award’ (2014), ‘GOPIO International Award’ (2012) and, at The Phoenix Newspaper 9th Anniversary Masquerade Awards Showcase, Dr. Paresh received a special‘OutstandingAchievement’. Whilst involved in many charities, especially the British Heart Foundation, this year Dr. Paresh Rughani’s will be making the most of this acronym for himself - B.M.W. (My books, marketing it, and the website). “Now I’m looking to be M.A.D.(MakingADifference)!”

Fresha accelerates European expansion with new offices in Madrid, Paris, and the Netherlands

Fresha, the world's most popular beauty and wellness booking platform, today announced the opening of new offices in Madrid,Paris,andtheNetherlands.

"This strategic expansion marks a bold move to strengthen its leadership across Europe, supporting its rapidly growing customer base while driving continued innovation and growth in the beauty, wellness,andself-careindustry."Withover 130,000 businesses using its platform and thousands of new merchants joining every month, Fresha's new regional offices will accelerate growth in key European markets.

The expansion aligns with the company's visiontobecometheworld'smostvaluable companyinthebeautyandwellnessspace, driving growth and innovation through cutting-edgetechnologyandexceptional

customerexperiences."Ourexpansionwith regional hubs into Madrid, Paris, and the Netherlands marks a pivotal moment for Fresha as we continue to drive excellence and innovation across the globe," said William Zeqiri, Founder and CEO of Fresha. "These new offices allow us to deepen our support for local partners, attracttoptalent,andpushtheboundaries ofinnovationinbeautyandwellnessspace. We remain steadfast in our mission to set new standards of excellence and deliver transformative experiences for businesses andconsumersworldwide."

ThisEuropeanexpansionisakeyelement ofFresha'sglobalgrowthstrategy,enabling the company to strengthen its regional operations and remain at the forefront of therapidlyevolvingbeautyandwellness

industry. The local teams will embody Fresha's philosophy of hiring "missionaries over mercenaries," ensuring a passionate, dedicated workforce aligned with the company'svision.

Fresha's continued investment in Europe highlights the region's significance in the company'slong-termroadmap,signallingthe next wave of growth and innovation for merchantsandclientsalike.Todate,Fresha has raised over $185 million in venture capital funding, including a $150 million Series C round in 2021 led by General Atlantic. Fresha boasts the world's largest network of businesses and professionals in thebeauty,wellnessandself-carespace,with a strong presence in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand,andnowwithfastexpansionacross Europe.

As IMO Car Wash marked its 60th anniversary on March 8th, the world's favouritecarwashiscelebratinginstyle— dressedinitsboldnewblueidentityand unveiling a wave of cutting-edge innovations designed to deliver even betterperformance,value,andqualityfor driverseverywhere.Forsixdecades,IMO's flagship washes have been trusted by millionsacrosstheglobe.Butneveroneto rest on its laurels, IMO has partnered with the smart minds at WashTec tolaunchanewrangeofenhancedwash products and services—setting new standards in carcare while remaining kinder to the environment. Leading the innovation chargefor 2025 is Graphene G60,agame-changingwashformulathat blendsadvancedcarbonweavetechnology with a self-cleaning finish, delivering a 'new car' look with every wash. This revolutionaryproductisbeingtrialledin 2025atselectIMOsites,

giving customers theultimate in innovation,protectionandshine.Butthe good news doesn't stop there.Sustainability remains at the heart of IMO's operations, with brand-new fine-mistapplicators and next-generation waternozzlesdesignedtominimisewater consumption.Coupled with IMO's continued investment in solar and wind power, as well as rainwatercapture, the iconic blue brand is proving that innovation and eco-consciousness go hand inhand.In a world of change, one thing remains constant—IMO's dedication to car wash innovation.With 60 years of expertise, best-in-class products,andcutting-edgescience,IMO continuestoleadtheway,servingover25 million customers a year across 720 locations in Europe andAustralia.Here's to60yearsofcarwashexcellence—andto anevenbrighter,cleanerfutureahead!

600,000 litres of water being saved a day thanks to people

videoing their leaky loos, taps and showers

Severn Trent customers are saving themselves thousands of litres of water with almost 4,000 using the water company’s Vyn (Video Your Notes) platformsinceitsintroductionlastyear.

It means that customers have saved over 600,000 litres of water since the start of 2024 thanks to videoing various toilet, tap or shower leaks around their home. Spotting these leaks means customers could have also savedthemselvesmoneyintheprocess,asthingslikea dripping tap or leaky loo could add hundreds of poundsayeartoahouseholdwaterbill.

Through Severn Trent’s Vyn platform, customers uploadvideosoftheirleaks,whicharethensenttoour team of engineers to review the footage. Once an engineer has taken a look at the video, they contact the customer to book a visit within the next few days torepairtheleak–allcompletelyfreeofcharge!

Kelsey Martin, Workstream Manager at Severn Trent said:“It’sgreattoseepeopletakingactiontospotand fix leaks as soon as they can through the Vyn platform.

“Fixingleaksisoneofthosejobsthatcaneasilybeput offaspeoplegetonwiththeirdaytodaylives,butit’s important to get them fixed as soon as possible, as these leaks can make a substantial difference to people’s water bills. Our Vyn platform has already been a massive help to thousands of customers, helping them sort their leaks as soon as possible to easeanyworriestheyhaveandsavingmillionsoflitres intheprocess.

“The platform means our engineers are able to see exactly what the issue is, rather than customers trying to explain over the phone.” If a Severn Trent engineer isn’t able to support with the repair, they will put the customer in touch with a WaterSafe accredited plumberinthearea.

The Forgotten Generations – Commemorating the public service of Black RAFveterans from the West Midlands

The Forgotten Generations are excited to announce a new project in the West Midlands thatwill capture the stories of Black veterans who have served in the Royal Air Force from theSecond World War onwards and settledintheWestMidlands.Thisprojecthasbeenmade possible with £108,000 in funding from The National LotteryHeritage Fund. Made possible by National Lotteryplayers,thisprojectwillbringtotheforefrontthe importantcontributionsofBritain’sBlackcommunityto the Royal Air Force. The Forgotten Generations will work with communities in Birmingham to create an exhibition,withfilmscapturingthesestoriesandanonline digital archive to ensure these important stories are shared

widely.Therewillbea3-monthpublicexhibitionheldat Library ofBirmingham (dates to be announced shortly). Communities,schools,organisationsandindividualswill beabletogetinvolvedandlearnabouttheveteransliving in the West Midlands. The National Lottery Heritage Fund vision is for heritage to be valued, cared for and sustainedforeveryone,nowandinthefuture.That’swhy asthelargestfunderfortheUK’sheritagethededication is to supporting projects that connect people and communitiestoheritage,assetoutinourstrategicplan, Heritage 2033 Heritage can be anything from the past that people value and want to pass on to futuregenerationsandbelieveinthepowerofheritageto

ignitetheimagination,offerjoyandinspiration,andto buildprideinplaceandconnectiontothepast.Overthe next10years,theaimistoinvest£3.6billionraisedfor good causes by National Lottery players to make a decisive difference for people, places and communities. You canvisit www.heritagefund.org.uk, or follow @HeritageFundUK on X/Twitter, Facebook and Instagramanduse#NationalLottery#HeritageFund.

Dancing on the Ceiling soon - with months to go until Lionel Richie comes to Brum

Erykah Badu is set to release her first studio album in 15 years, teaming up with renownedhip-hop producer The Alchemist.Thismarksherreturnsince 2010’s ‘New Amerykah Part Two (Return of the Ankh)’, blendingher signature neo-soul style with hip-hop influences.Inarecentinterview,Badu expressedher excitement about the album, saying it has been her main focus.“Ican’twaituntilit’sdone,”she added,hintingatthefreshsoundshe’s creating with TheAlchemist, known for his work with Freddie Gibbs and Earl Sweatshirt, according to newsoutlet. Badu explained that her long hiatus from creating studio albums was due to herdedication to liveperformances.“Itoureight

monthsoutoftheyearforthepast25 years,”sherecalled.That’swhatIdo.I am a performance artist. I am not a recording artist. I come from thetheatre.”Fans got a preview of the album when The Alchemist posted a snippet of a track titled‘Valentine,’ showing Badu in the studio with rapperEarlSweatshirt.Thisteaserhas sparked speculation about possible collaborations on the album.While Badu hasn’t released a solo album in years, she’s remained active in the music scene,collaborating with Jamie xx on ‘F.U.’ and winning a Grammy forherworkwithRapsodyon‘3:AM.’ Her return to music after years of touringisahighlyanticipatedmoment forfansworldwide.

Erykah Badu to release her first album in 15 years

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Dancing on the Ceiling soon - with months to go until Lionel Richie comes to Brum

Getreadybecause,injustthree months’time,LionelRichie's'Say HelloToTheHits'tourarrivesin Birmingham, bringing his legendary catalogue of hits to life.Experience a brand-new production, filled with the timelessclassicsyoulove.From ‘Hello’ to‘All Night Long’, ‘Dancing on the Ceiling’, ‘Say YouSayMe’andmore,prepare for a night ofnostalgia, energy, and unforgettable moments.Lionel Richie, a true iconwithover125millionrecords sold, delivers a live performancethat's second to none. His Glastonbury performanceprovedhisabilityto connect with audiences of all generations, and this tour promisestobejustasspectacular.

BetterJoytoembark ondebutUKtourin MarchandApril

This Spring, Better Joy - aka Manchester-based Bria Keelyembarks on her highlyanticipated debut tour of the UK. With 8 headline dates throughout March and April, including a headline LondonshowatOldBlueLastand ahometownshowatManchester’s Night & Day (recently upgraded duetopopulardemand),theshows will coincide with the release of better joy’s eagerly awaited‘headingintoblue’EP-out 28thMarch.Teasingtheupcoming tour with new music, betterjoy recently released the single “quiet thing” A reflective, personal song that has morphed through many guisessinceitsinception,it’sasong that pauses for thought on those quietermomentsthat

define our relationships.As Bria explains: "’Quiet thing’ is one of those songs that has taken on so many differentlives since its originalconceptio“Iwasoriginally inspired by someone close to me, whoatthetimewasdescribingthe quiettype of love he needed from his partner when going through a toughtime.Itgotmethinkinghow importantitistonottakethequiet moments in relationships for granted.“I suppose I wanted to writeanodetothosemoments,but I didn’t want it to be sweetsounding;Iwantedthelyricstobe againstmusicthathadabitofgrit to offset thesweetness.” Alive with gritty guitars, honeyed vocals and a euphoric chorus, it’s a captivating insight into forthcomingdebutEP‘

headingintoblue’,whichbetterjoy will be airing tracksfrom on her upcoming UK tour. Produced by Mike Hedges (The Cure, U2, Manic Street Preachers), the 6track EP will alsofeature previous singles ‘waiting on time’, “carnival” and “what a day”, plus two brand-newtracks, “couldn’t run forever” and “can I land the plane?”AvinylversionoftheEPis availableto pre-order now.When better joy launched in late 2023, her vivid songs brought comparisonstoTheCure, The Smiths and Phoebe Bridgers. A solo project led by Bria Keely and backed up by herband, Bria hasanupfrontandcentrevoiceas colourful as Debbie Harry and a knackforeffortlessstorytellin

Jagex announces CEO transition

GADGETS AND GAMING

Jagex, a leading UK video game company and developeroftheRuneScapeMMORPGfranchise, haveannouncedtheappointmentofJonBellamy as Chief Executive Officer.He will succeed Phil Mansell,whohasservedasCEOsince2017.Phil willremainwiththebusinessforaperiodoftime toensureasmoothtransition.Jonentersthisrole withglobalstrategicandoperationalexperienceas well as deep understanding and appreciation ofRuneScape.He has served on Jagex's Board since 2024 and has extensive experience in the gamingindustry,includingexecutiverolesatJagex (2015-2018) and Huuuge Games (2019-2023).Jon is also a player of RuneScape for over 20 years and a veteran of the OSRS & RS3communities."Onbehalfoftheboard,Iwant to sincerely thank Phil for his leadership and contributions

toJagexoverthepast14years,"saidMarcAllera, Jagex Chair. "Under Phil's leadership, Jagex has undergone significant transformation, growing intotheCompanyitistodaywhilealwaysstaying true to its player-centric focus – with an alltimerecord number of Old School RuneScape players in Q4- 2024. We all wish him the very bestandknowhewillgoontodogreatthingsin the future."Marc Allera added: "This is an incredibly exciting time for the Company as we continue tooffer a world-class gaming experience and introduce new content, including the highlyanticipated Sailing skill to Old School RuneScape in 2025. We're confident that under Jon'sleadership, the business will continue to provide players the most fulfilling and engaginggaming experiences possibl Phil Mansell said: "After an incredible 14 years leading RuneScape

and8yearsasJagex'sCEO,I'msteppingbackand handingoverthebatontoJonBellamy.“Working alongside such a talented and passionate team, we'vesignificantlygrowntheCompanyandplayer community, cementing Jagex as an innovator in community-drivengames and genuine leader in thisindustry.AstheCompanyembarksonitsnext chapter, Iam delighted to be handing over to a leader who I know cares about our games andbusinessasmuchasIdo-andIlookforward to supporting him as he builds upon the strongfoundations we've created Jon Bellamy commented: "It's a great honour to assume the leadership of Jagex and to helpsteward a game franchisethatmeanssomuchtosomanymillions, myselfincluded.“Iamalsoexcitedtogettowork with the outstanding team, whom I know well frommytimeontheBoard,toensure

ourgamescontinuetobethebestintheworld.I plan to spendsome time now with the team, reviewing our ambitions for Jagex, and plan to communicatemybroadervisiontotheRuneScape communityinthenear-term.Aleaderincreating deep and engaging forever games that empower our communitiesacross PC and mobile. Jagex's flagship MMORPG, RuneScape, has welcomed over300millionplayeraccountstoitsworldandis a $2 billion + lifetime revenue franchise.Today, the RuneScape franchise exists beyond live operations; our titles are forever gamesthat connect and inspire millions of players, with contentandexperiencesbothinsideandoutsideof inexhaustiblegameworlds.

ECONOMIC CONTRACTION DISAPPOINTING, BUT BUSINESS

NOT SURPRISED, SAYS GBCC

Reacting to the latest GDP figures published by the ONS, Emily Stubbs, Head of Policy at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC), said:

“GDP shrinking in January and tepid growth over the last three months will be disappointing news to the Governmentthismorning.

"However, it's perhaps unsurprising as businesses face the looming prospect of additionalcostpressuresfromApril.

Our latest research indicates that the nationalinsurancehike

announced in the autumn budget will hit investment, recruitment and prices inthecomingmonths.

"TheChancellormustusetheupcoming spring statement as an opportunity to reduce the tax burdens on businesses and provide the clarity of direction needed for firms to make investment decisions. Movement on business rates reform, infrastructure development and boosting trade relationships with our EU counterparts will also be critical to improvingbusinessconfidence."

HM TRADE COMMISSIONER FOR NORTH AMERICA APPOINTED NEW ACAS CHIEF EXECUTIVE

Acas (the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) has appointed Niall Mackenzie as its new ChiefExecutive.

NiallcurrentlyworksattheDepartmentforBusiness andTradeastheUK’sHMTradeCommissionerfor North America, which is based at the British Consulate General in New York. Acas Chair, Clare Chapman,said:“I’mabsolutelydelightedtowelcome Niall as CEO. Niall is an experienced and knowledgeableleaderwithastrongtrackrecordboth of customer delivery and helping to grow the UK economy.

“Wealllookforwardtoworkingwithhimtofurther strengthen our reputation as Britain’s leading authority on employment relations. Acas is currently deliveringoneofitsstrongestsetofannualresultsin recentyearsandwillplayacentralroleinsupporting theGovernment's‘MakeWorkPay’plans.

“I'mconfidentthatNiall’sleadershipwillhelpusrise to the challenge of meeting the significant extra demand on our services this will involve as we continue to innovate in the delivery of our core services." Niall added: “I’m thrilled to be joining an organisation that has so many talented people promoting good workplace practice and helping resolve some of Britain's most difficult workplace disputes.

“Acasexpertsplayavitalroleinconflictresolution and prevention. The annual cost of UK workplace conflictisanestimated£30billion.

“By further reducing that cost, Acas can make a markedcontributiontoBritain'seconomicgrowthin the years ahead." Niall will take over as Acas Chief Executiveon1May2025.

SixbyNico’sbrand-newmenu,‘ItalianRoadtrip’, issettotakeguestsonatasteadventure,inspired bytheauthenticflavoursandfreshingredientsthat defined founder Nico Simeone’supbringing.The new offering encompasses recipes passed down fromgenerationtogeneration,takingdinersona romantic journey back to where it all started. Running now, to 20th April, guestscan look forward to six delicious tasting courses, offering alternativetwistsonItalianclassics,harnessingsundrenchedMediterraneanflavours,anddrawingon aheritageoffamilyandgoodfood.Thenewmenu will include:Course 1: Taste of PiciniscoCrisp Polenta, Parma Ham, House Ricotta, Truffle HoneyCourse 2: Trinità RomanaCarbonara Raviolo,SmokedAmatricianaCompote,CacioE PepeEspumaCourse3:I’CiaccaLambFlank,Pasta Fagioli,SmokedPotato,Caper&RaisinCourse4: Mare di NapoliSea Bass, ‘Octopus Sausage’, Fennel Compote, Confit TomatoAdd-on: Finishing TouchFritto Misto, Preserved Lemon, Basil Emulsion (£9)Course 5: Involtini alla RomanaOxBallotine,BeefFatCarrot,CarrotTop Pesto,RedWineJusAdd-on:PecorinoSardoBaked PolentaCake,MuscatGrape&Honey(£9)Course

6: Crostata di Ricotta e ViscioleRicotta Semifreddo, Black Cherry Sorbet, Fennel Seed Crumble, Caramelised Pastry This brand-new offeringlovinglyblendsItalianfavouriteslike

creamy carbonara andsucculent lamb with seasonal flavours of fresh tomato, aromatic basil, and crisp fennel. Thedetails of each dish have been masterfully designed to create a dining experience thatcombines everything the public love about Italian cuisine and takesdinersontheirownMediterraneanroadtrip,allin one charming sitting.Founder Nico Simeone offers further insight into the menu concept: “This menu is absolutelya love letter to the place that originally inspired my passion for food.“The journey we took acrossItalybroughtonfeelingsofintensenostalgiaand promptedfondmemoriesofmyItalianNonna’skitchen, wherefoodwasfuelledbyloveandfamilytradition.This six-coursetastingmenudrawsonwistfulmemoriesof the locations across Italy thatunderpinned my upbringing.“Essentially, Six by Nico wouldn’t exist without the chaotic charm of Naples’ seafront, thevineyards of Picinisco, or the fresh, seasonal ingredientsusedinRome.Thisrotationrepresentsthe valuesthatourrestaurantsarebuiltupon,makingita particularlyspecialoneforme.”SixbyNicocaterstoall dietaryrequirements,offeringafullvegetarianmenufor each newmenu concept. Customers can also swap coursesfromthemeatmenuforvegetarianalternatives, if they wish.Other dietary preferences and certain allergenscanalsobecateredtouponrequest,ensuring that everyone can enjoy the best possible dining experience.ItalianRoadtripbookingscanbemadevia theirwebsite.

Isle of Wight seaside town chef making Caribbean food at her cafe

Meet the chef using Isle of Wight ingredientstomakeCaribbeanfoodin the heart ofSandown. Vivette Fryer runs Viv's Cooking, on the High Street, bringing delicious curry goat andjerkchickentothetown.Vivsaid: "I get my goat from Kingston - not Kingston, Jamaica but Kingston in Shorwell!"Kingston Smallholding farm,Igeteggsfromthemsometimes as well."Viv and her husband, Paul, movedtotheIslandin2020.Shegotto know the Island through working withAbilityDogsforYoungPeople, beforeopening up the restaurant in 2022.The idea for the restaurant stemmed from Viv's ventures into catering,startingatacharityfunction

in Letchworth after her nephew's mum challenged her to provide food.Viv's Cooking now provides lunch, with a range of British and Caribbean food packed withflavour and warmth.Viv said: "Most of the Caribbean dishes, definitely the chicken, the rice and peas, thedumplings, the festival, the plantain,macandcheese-they'reall of my top ones." The party doesn't onlyhappenintherestaurant,asViv has branched out to collaborate withother businesses, including a Pamper and Prosecco day at the Royal Pier Hotel in Sandownand takingherjerkpantoTheWheatsheaf Inn on Bridge Road, Yarmouth.In 2025,sheplanstoputonaGospel

Beats event at Browns Golf on Good Friday, and puton more comedy nights intherestaurantafterthesuccessofthe eventslastyear.Asalways,weaskedour chef what their culinary guilty pleasure was, and Viv's answer didn'tskip a beat.Shesaid:"Anypuddingatallwith custard.Ilikeaniceappleandcinnamon crumble withcustard, my next favourite food after carbs, is sugar food."You need stuff to give you a hug on the inside!"Viv also mentioned restaurant neighboursTheBayVeganDeli,singling out their veganchocolates.For Island sticky toffee pudding spots, she recommends The Wheatsheaf Inn in Yarmouthand The Paramount Cafe on HighStreet,Shanklin.

he number of Catholics around the world has tippedoverthe1.4billionmark,accordingtothe latestresearchfromtheVatican.

TheVatican’sCentralOfficeofChurchStatistics has released the 2025 Pontifical Yearbook providingdetailsaboutthenumberofCatholics, consecrated religious, priests, bishops and the like throughout the world. The global Catholic population increased by 1.15 per cent between 2022 and 2023, rising from approximately 1.39 billion to 1.406 billion, according to the Pontifical Yearbook 2025, which was compiled by the Central Office of Church Statistics, a departmentoftheVatican’sSecretariatofState. Thepercentageincreasewasverysimilartothat ofthepreviousbiennium,reportsVaticanNews.

According to the yearbook, Africa includes 20 percentoftheCatholicsoftheentireplanetand is characterised by a highly dynamic spread of theCatholicChurch.

The number of Catholics in the continent increasedfrom272millionin2022to281million in 2023, with a relative variation of +3.31 per cent. The Democratic Republic of Congo confirmsitsfirst-placepositionforthenumberof baptised Catholics, with almost 55 million, followed by Nigeria with 35 million; Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya also register significant figures.

TheAmericas,withagrowthof0.9percentover the biennium, consolidate their position as the continentstowhich47.8percentoftheworld’s Catholicsbelong.Ofthese,27.4percentresidein South America (where Brazil, with 182 million, represents 13 per cent of the world total and continues to be the country with the highest concentration of Catholics throughout the globe).InNorthAmericaarelocated6.6per

cent,withtheremaining13.8percentinCentral America. When the number of Catholics is compared to the total population, Argentina, Colombia and Paraguay stand out, with a Catholic incidence exceeding 90 per cent of the population.

The Asian continent records a growth in Catholic numbers of 0.6 per cent over the biennium,anditsratioin2023isaround11per centoftheglobalCatholicpopulation.In2023, 76.7percentofSoutheastAsianCatholicswere concentratedinthePhilippines,with93million; andinIndia,with23million.

Europe,whilehosting20.4percentoftheworld Catholic community, confirms itself as the least dynamicarea,withanincreaseinthenumberof Catholicsoverthebienniumofjust0.2percent. Thisvariation,though,inthefaceofanalmost stagnantdemographicdynamic,translatesintoa slightimprovementinterritorialpresence,notes Vatican News, reaching nearly 39.6 per cent in 2023.

Italy, Poland and Spain register a Catholic incidence exceeding 90 per cent of the resident population.TheCatholicsofOceanianumbered just over 11 million in 2023, an increase of 1.9 percentcomparedto2022.

The data reported in the Pontifical Yearbook offers information regarding the life of the Catholic Church worldwide for 2024. The yearbook also contains the Annuarium StatisticumEcclesiae,whichoffersasnapshotof themainquantitativephenomenaconcerningthe pastoral activity of the Catholic Church worldwide, including statistical insights for the biennium2022–2023.

How Holi brought smiles and colour to millions worldwide

Known as the festival of love, colours and spring, millions around the world were celebrating the Hindu festival of Holi, during an occasion marked by throwing colouredpowderandwaterateachotherto highlightthedays.

Markingthebeginningofspring,onthelast full moon of the lunar month, the two-day festival, which first began in India, also celebratedtheHindugod,Krishna,andthe legend of Holika and Prahlad, which symbolises good overcoming evil. During the first day, people lit bonfires and threw food such as popcorn, grains, coconut and chickpeas into a fire, before, during the second day, the famous paint fight took place,withcoloured

powder called gulal - thought to be a reference to Krishna – and coloured water thrown at each other in a fun and celebratory way. "Holi is always a lovely event,” one participant said. “It is full of colours, and you will always see smiles on everybody'sface.

“Whenweputcolouroneachother,thereis nodifference.Ittakesawayallthedivides." Inmanycountries,hugecrowdsgatheredin streets to throw paint at each other and enjoy their Holi – with this year’s Holi festivalstartingonMarch14.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is celebrating 75 years of the VW Bus. It is the commercial vehicle with the longest productionruninEurope.

On8March1950,thefirstTransporter–orT1forshort–lefttheproductionlinein Wolfsburg. Since then, more than 12.5 million VW Buses have followed –produced in Hanover from 1956. This makes it the most successful European commercial vehicle of all time. It has alreadybeenacultvehicleformanyyears. FromtheT1tothesixthgenerationT6.1, oneplatformalwaysprovidedthebasisfor allderivatives–fromvanstocampervan icons. But the era of electric mobility necessitated a transformation of the allrounder and thus a paradigm shift: ‘One VW Bus for all’ therefore became ‘The rightVWBusforeveryone’.

ThecurrentMultivanmarkedthestartofa newerain2021–avandesignedforleisure

FederalRepublicofGermany,whichwas founded a year earlier. American Bing Crosby was the musical superstar at the time,ElvisPresleywasstillateenager,and PaulMcCartneywasaschoolboy. While rock music was only about to be invented, Volkswagen was already producingasmallcarforthefifthyear,a carthatwasenjoyingsuccessalloverthe world: the Beetle, also known as Type 1. Duringthistime,on8March,Volkswagen started series production of a second product line: the Transporter. Internally, theysimplycalleditType2.Itwasstilla blank page in the history of the automobile. But one that was eagerly anticipated. Because companies in the FederalRepublicofGermanyinparticular – the burgeoning economic miracle –urgentlyneededanaffordablevan.Aname fortheType2wasalsourgentlyneeded. Asearlyas1949,Volkswagenhadwanted

Since 1975, 20 renowned international artistshavecreatedBMWArtCars. The"rollingsculptures"–fromAlexander Calder's first-ever Art Car to Julie Mehretu's latest – offer an impressive cross-sectionofarthistoryoverthepast fivedecades.Tomarktheanniversary,the BMWArtCarWorldTourfeaturesthe largest exhibition programme in the history of the series, spanning all five continents. "TheBMWArtCarCollectioncelebrates 50yearsofartisticfreedomandvisionary design,” says Ilka Horstmeier, Board MemberforHumanResourcesandReal EstateatBMWGroup.

“The 20 vehicles have become international icons, telling stories of society,technologyandperformance."The BMWArtCarWorldTourkicksoffin EuropeandAsia.On20-21March,BMW Art Cars by Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, Robert Rauschenberg, David Hockney and Jeff Koons will be showcased in Vienna at the Museum of AppliedArtsandtheSPARKArtFair. t

AVienna at the Museum of Applied ArtsandtheSPARKArtFair. Meanwhile,the20thBMWArtCarby JulieMehretuwillembarkonanAsian tour and be displayed at Art Basel in HongKong(28-30March).Nexttoa special exhibition at the BMW Museum, upcoming stops of the tour includeinternationalartfairs(etal.Art Dubai,MarketArtFairinStockholm) andinstitutionsaswellasmuseumsand platforms for classic automobiles (e.g. Concorso d'Eleganza at Lake Como, LouwmanMuseuminTheHague).

In addition to the tour, BMW is releasingvariouslifestyleproductsand artcarminiaturesaswellasanewbook incelebrationoftheanniversary.

"I love that car,” says Andy Warhol, BMWArtCar#4,1979

“It has turned out better than the artwork."

How life experience enhances foster care skills

TheAdoptionofChildrenAct1926introducedforthe firsttimeinEnglandandWalesalegalprocessbywhich the rights and responsibilities for a child could be transferredfrombirthparentstoadoptiveparents. It gave adoptive parents the same rights and responsibilitiesasbirthparentsandsecuredthechild’s newpositionwithintheiradoptivefamily.Atthetime, the majority of adoptees were ‘illegitimate’ children whose birth families were unable or unwilling to supportthem.

OneofthekeypurposesoftheActwastoprotectall concerned from the stigma of illegitimacy. Adoptions wereshroudedinsecrecyandcontactbetweenchildren andbirthfamilymemberswascurtailed.

In 2026 it will be 100 years since the Adoption of Children Act 1926 was first introduced. Although the legislation still stands, there have been numerous changes during this period. Contraception, abortion, reduced stigmatisation, and better support and employment opportunities for single mothers have all meant that the population of children placed for adoptionhasnowchanged.

Nowadays, the majority of those who are adopted in the UK are children who have been placed in local authoritycarebecausethecourtshavefoundthemtobe ‘suffering,orlikelytosuffersignificantharm’,andwho cannot safely return home within an appropriate timeframe. Much more is known about the consequences of adoption – for all three parties: birth parents,childrenandadoptiveparents.

Andforadopteesmuchmoreisknownaboutthe(longterm) consequences of abuse and neglect, and of transferring a child from one family to another – the developmentofcomplexidentities;theconsequencesof secrecy; the importance of contact; the need for postadoption support. ‘Adoption & Fostering’ is inviting contributions for a Special Issue to reflect on the first hundredyearsoflegaladoptioninEnglandandWales.

Authors of papers published in the Special Issue will alsobeofferedtheopportunitytodiscusstheirarticleas part of the journal’s podcast series (30–45 minutes) published under the CoramBAAF Conversations umbrella.

Papers that explore any issues concerning adoption in theUKwithinthecontextofchangeovertimewillbe considered for publication. Particularly invited contributionscovering:

Research questions on adoption since 1926. Progressmadeandcontinuinggapsinknowledge Cohortstudiesandwhattheytellusaboutadoption outcomesovertime

Changingexperiencesofbirthparents

Post-adoptioncontactwithbirthfamilies–current developmentsandimplicationsforthefuture Accesstorecords–theprosandconsofaccessing records, including practical and psychological obstacles

Comparative studies – how has the evolution of adoption in the UK differed from that in other countries?

Post-adoptionsupport–foradoptees,birthparents and/oradoptiveparents:whathavewelearned,and whatdoweneedtoknow?

The voice of adoptees (i.e., co-produced studies, topicssuchasintersectionalityoridentity)

Abstracts (up to 200 words) for proposed articles should be submitted to Victoria Walker (victoria.walker@corambaaf.org.uk) by 18 April 2025. Completed papers (5–7,000 words) will be due by 1 October2025.

A call for papers: ‘Adoption & Fostering’ special issue

Lifeexperiencesplayacrucialroleinshaping an individual’s ability to become an effectivefosterparent.Theseexperiencesoften provide emotional maturity, resilience, and practical problem-solving skills. They foster empathy and understanding, which are essential for building trustand rapport with foster children. Additionally, life experiences enhance communication skills and adaptability, allowingindividuals to navigate the ever-changing dynamics of foster care. Your life experiencesignificantly enhances yourfosteringabilitiesinseveralways:

1. Emotional Maturity: Individuals with diverse life experiences often have a higherlevelofemotionalmaturity,whichhelps them handle the complex emotions andbehavioursoffosterchildren.

2. Problem-Solving Skills: Life experience equips individuals with practical problemsolving skills, enabling them to address various challenges that may arise in a fosterfamily

3.EmpathyandUnderstanding:Havingfaced different life situations, experienced individuals are often more empathetic and understanding, which is crucial for buildingtrust and rapport with their foster child.

4. Resilience: Life experience often builds resilience,helpingfostercarersremainpatient andpersistentinthefaceofdifficulties.

5. Communication Skills: Experienced individuals typically have welldevelopedcommunication skills, essential for effectively interacting with children, social workers,andotherstakeholders.

6. Adaptability: Life experience fosters adaptability,allowingindividualstoadjustto theever-changingdynamicsoffostercare.

7. Resourcefulness: Those with varied life experiencesareoftenmoreresourceful,finding creative solutions to support and nurture fosterchildren.Overall,lifeexperiencebrings awealthofpracticalknowledgeandemotional intelligence,makingindividualswell-equipped to provide a stable, supportive, and loving environmentforfosterchildren.

TheCaribbeanTourismOrganization(CTO) has announced the launch of the Regional Nex-Gen Tourism Showcase 2025, an innovative competition designed to engage and empowerthe next generation of Caribbean tourism leaders. Open to tertiarylevelstudentsfromuniversitiesandcollegesin CTO member countries, thisinitiative challenges participants to develop forwardthinking, sustainable businessproposals that drive economic growth and strengthen the region’s global tourism competitiveness. Through research, teamwork, and project presentations, students will explore key aspects of the tourism industry, designing initiativeswithalastingimpactonCaribbean destinationsThiscompetitionnotonly

stimulates creativity and innovation but also bridges academic learning with real-world applications,providingyoungtalentswiththe opportunity to engage directly with industry leaders. CTO Secretary-General & CEO Dona Regis-Prosper emphasized the importance of this initiative: "The future of Caribbean tourism lies inthe hands of our young, talented minds “The Nex-Gen Tourism Showcase is more than a competition–itisanopportunitytocultivate innovation, empower students, and ensure a vibrant, sustainable future for ourregion’s tourism industry. We invite students across CTO member countries to take on thischallenge and become part of the movementshapingtheCaribbean’stourism

CTO launches Nex-Gen Tourism Showcase 2025

landscape. As part of its commitment to youth engagement and education, CTO has long supported initiatives such as the Caribbean Primary School Creative Writing Competition, the Regional Tourism Youth Congress, and the Caribbean Students Colloquium. The Nex-Gen Tourism Showcase 2025 continues this tradition, offering students a platform to gain industryexperience, refine their skills, and develop tourism solutions with real impact.Business proposals will be evaluated based on economic viability, social and environmental impact, and their potential to attract investment. The top teams will advance to the final round at Caribbean WeekinNewYorkthisJune,wheretheywill

present their ideas beforean audience of industry leaders.With this initiative, CTO reaffirmsitscommitmenttonurturingfuture tourism professionals and ensuring a more innovative, competitive, and sustainable Caribbeantourismindustry.

Visitor economy champions recognised at 2025 West Midlands TourismAwards

Thebestvenues,experiencesandevents from across the West Midlands visitor economy have been honoured at the 2025 West Midlands Tourism Awards, with15winnerscrownedattheannual celebration of the sector at Edgbaston Stadium(Tuesday18March).

Tourism businesses from across the region – including Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Ironbridge, Leamington Spa, Market Drayton, Shipston-on-Stour, Shrewsbury and Warwick – emerged victorious in categories such as “Experience of the Year”,“InternationalTourismAward” and “Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism Award”. The ceremonywashostedbyradio,TVand sportsbroadcasterAmberSandhu,with entertainment provided by B:Music Young Performers and music group W!RED.

TheawardswereorganisedbytheWest Midlands Growth Company, the region’s lead for the West Midlands Destination Development Partnership.

Sharon Thompson, Deputy Mayor of theWestMidlands,thekeynotespeaker at the ceremony, said: “This is an important evening in the West Midlands’ events calendar to pay tribute to the wonderful tourism championswhohaveadirectimpacton the positive way that the region is perceived.

“Morethan145millionpeoplevisitthe WestMidlandseachyear,enjoyingour magical cultural attractions, fantastic culinary settings and memorable business and sporting events offer. Crucially, too, tourism supports more than 143,000 jobs, offering inclusive growth and development opportunities forthosewhoworkhardtosucceed.

“Iwaspleasedandhonouredtoraisea glass to all of the great supporters of ourvisitoreconomy–allofwhomare working hard to ensure that tourism remains one of the region’s success stories.” Gold and silver winners from thisyear’sregionaleventautomatically qualifyfortheVisitEnglandAwardsfor Excellence, to be held in Brighton in June, where West Midlands successes willbeshortlistedfornationalprizes.

At the 2024 ceremony, Telford International (gold, Business Events Venue of the Year); Warwick Conferences (silver, Business Events Venue of the Year); and Cotswolds Distillery (silver, Small Visitor Attraction of the Year) were all recognised nationally. The 2025 West Midlands Tourism Awards took place during English Tourism Week (14-23 March),anationwideinitiativeto

highlight tourism’s importance to local communitiesandeconomies.

Theweeklongcelebrationpromotesthe innovation, quality and range of productsandservicesonoffertoboost domestic breaks. Tourism is one of England’s largest and most valuable sectors, supporting hundreds of thousandsofbusinesses,employing2.6 million people and generating about £71.6billionannuallyfortheeconomy indomesticvisitorspending.

IN CONVERSATION WITH DEE BURROWES

The Spring Reset You Didn’t Know You Needed to Heal from the Winter Blues

As the last traces of winter fade andspringemergesinallitsglory, most of us instinctivelyshift into action for spring cleaning, new goals and busier schedules. But whatifthesecrettotrulyembracing this season isn’t doing more, but having a reset of the clock?The world around is shifting, we’ve noticed the buds are blooming, birdsaresingingandtheaircarries the scent of renewal. Yet, while natureiseffortlesslyembracingthe change,youmightstillfeelweighed downbythelingeringfatigueofthe winter season. The sluggishness, the emotional heaviness and the unshakablesenseofbeingstuckat whereyouare.Theyareclearsigns thatyourbody,mindandsoulare craving something deeper than a freshstart.Theyneedandbegfora reset.

Springisn’tjustaboutlongerdays and warmer weather; it’s an invitationtoreleasetheexhaustion

of the past season and step into a new rhythm of energy and clarity. But here’s the secret: true renewal doesn’t come from doing more, it comes from resetting with intention.

It isn’t another checklist of spring cleaning tasks or productivity hacks. It is about you, restoring your energy, clearing emotional clutter and creating space for joy and lightness. The winter blues don’t simply disappear with the first bloom; they require a consciousshift,amomenttopause, breatheandrecalibrate.

The season ahead isn’t just about growth, it’s about healing first, so you can bloom into your fullest and brightest self. The days grow longer and there’s an undeniable energy in the air. Yet, we often associate spring with action or rampingupproductivity.

What if the most powerful thing youcoulddorightnowisreset?

After months of cold weather, limitedsunlight,andtheweightof winter’s emotional and physical toll,yourbody,mindandsoulare likely more drained than you realize. The lingering fatigue, the lack of motivation, aren’t just random feelings, they’re signs that you need a deep reset before you canfullyembracethenewseason.

Spring isn’t just about blooming. It’s about shedding, healing and recalibrating all that is. It’s about stepping into the warmth of the newseasonnotwithexhaustionbut withenergy,clarityandarenewed senseofself.

Winter is more than just a season. Almost similar to an experience thataffectsyourbodyandmindin waysyoumaynotfullyrecognise. Here’s why resetting in spring is crucial:

AClutteredMind&Space:

Winter months tend to bring mental and physical clutter—piles of unread emails, unfinished resolutions, or even a home filled with things that no longer serve you. Without a proper reset, you may find yourself overwhelmed, evenastheworldoutsideawakens withnewlife.

TheHiddenFatigueofWinter:

The cold months bring shorter days, reduced sunlight, and a slower pace of life. While some of thiscanbecomforting,italsoleads to disruptions in sleep cycles, reduced physical activity and even seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Theresult?Alingeringfatiguethat doesn’t simply disappear when the firstflowersbloom.

Emotional Weight of the Past Season:

Winter often carries emotional heaviness. The stress of the holidays,financialburdens,andthe pressure to start the year strong can leave you feeling emotionally depleted. Without addressing this, you risk carrying this weight into spring, preventing you from fully experiencingtherenewaltheseason offers.

The Ultimate Spring Reset: 5 EssentialSteps: Totrulyhealfromthewinterblues, your reset must be holistic in addressing your mind, body and spirit.

ResetYourBody:Move,Nourish, andRestore

Winter often leads to hibernation mode—less movement, heavier foods, and disrupted sleep. Spring is the perfect time to realign with whatyourbodytrulyneeds.

Spring Nourishment: Focus on seasonal foods like leafy greens, citrus fruits, and herbal teas to naturally detox and boost your energy.

Prioritise Deep Rest: Reset your sleep routine by embracing early bedtimes, limiting screens before bed, and allowing your body to recoverfully.

Clear the Emotional Clutter: Release,Reflect,andRenew

Theemotionaltollofwintercanbe subtle yet heavy. Before stepping fully into spring, take time to process and release lingering emotions.

Journaling for Closure: Write downwhatwintertaughtyou,what challenges you faced, and what you’rereadytoletgoof.

Letting Go Rituals: Whether it’s writing a letter to your past self, practicing meditation, or even physically clearing old items, symbolic acts of release can be incrediblyhealing.

Detox Your Mind: Simplify, Unplug,andRefocus

Amentalresetisjustascrucialasa physical one. Winter often brings information overload—constant news, social media consumption, andoverstimulation.Springisyour chancetoclearthementalfog.

DigitalDetox:Setboundarieswith technology by reducing social media time, muting unnecessary notifications, and embracing phone-freemornings.

Declutter Your Space: A messy environment leads to a cluttered mind. Tidy up your home, get rid of unnecessary items, and create a spacethatfeelslightandfresh.

Refocus Your Goals: Rather than setting overwhelming new goals, refine your intentions. Ask yourself:Whattrulymatterstome thisseason?

Reconnect with Nature: Ground Yourself in the PresentSpring is nature’s invitation to reconnect with the earth. Spending time outdoors is one of thesimplest yet most effective ways to heal from thewinterblues.

Daily Walks in Nature: Whether it’s a park, a garden, or a quiet street, take time to observethe beautyaroundyou.

Earthing & Sunlight: Walking barefootongrassorsimplysitting in the sun for 10–15 minutescan work wonders for your mood and energylevels.

Seasonal Living: Align your lifestyle with nature’s rhythm— wake up earlier with the sun, eatseasonalfoods,andembracethe slower, mindful pace of spring.Cultivate a Fresh Mindset: Embrace Lightness & PossibilityFinally, a true spring reset involves shifting your mindset. Instead of carrying winter’sheaviness into the new season, embrace the lightness, possibility, and renewal that springoffers.

Practice Gratitude: Each morning, write down three things you’re gratefulfor.Thissimplehabitshifts your perspective and invites positivity.Live with Intention: Instead of rushing through life, slow down and savour the moment.Spring is about being as much as it is about doing.This spring, give yourself permission to reset, not in a way that feels like pressurebutinawaythatfeelslike self-care. You don’t need to force change or rush into the next chapter.Instead, allow yourself to naturally align with the energy of renewal.The winter blues don’t simply disappear overnight, but with intention, rest, and mindfulaction, you can truly step into a season of lightness, clarity andjoy.

Take a breath, release what no longer servesyou,andwelcomespringnotjust as a changein weather but as an opportunity for deep, meaningful transformation. Because the reset youdidn’t know you needed might just be the key to your most radiant season yet.Contributor’s Bio -Dee Burrowes, Certified Professional Coach, NLP Practitioner, Speaker, TrainedTeacher, International Awards Judge, Associate Governor, Mental Health andBehavioural Disorder Coach.In 2020, Dee was featured in global publications, awarded for her work in Life

Dee Burrowes, Certified Professional Coach, NLP Practitioner, Speaker, TrainedTeacher, International Awards Judge, Associate Governor, Mental Health andBehavioural Disorder Coach.In 2020, Dee was featured in global publications, awarded for her work

Landlord licences to stamp out 'dangerous' HMOs

A council in north London has said it needs to bring back tougher rules to deal with "rogue landlords" of houses of multiple occupancy(HMOs).

Brent Council says there is currently a "significant number" of such homes in the borough that are "substandard and potentially dangerous" and which pose a risk to residents. The council plans to restart a licensing scheme which saw 2,500 HMOs licensed and helped the council "improve standards and management practices".

It is now consulting on the plans and hopes to bring them in this autumn. Brent council says HMO licensing makes sure that houses are 'safe, well-managed, and provide basic facilities for tenants', and says it gives powers to officers to inspect licensed propertiestoensuretheymeettherequiredstandards.

The consultation states: "It is important that the council uses all available tools to improve conditions for tenants in this sector. Licensingisoneofthetoolsandplaysakeyroleinthiseffort."A mandatory licence is already needed for HMOs with five or more peoplefromtwoormorehouseholds.

The additional rules would cover typically smaller HMOs with three or more people from two or more different households. Licensing imposes specific obligations on the landlord to demonstrate that their property is safe while enabling the council toenforcerules.

The licence would cost landlords around £1,040 for the application, processing and inspection of up to five habitable rooms – and a further £25 per additional room. Councillor Fleur Donnelly-Jackson said: "Over the past 20 years, the number of privately rented homes in Brent has grown and now makes up almosthalfofallhomesintheborough.

"Wewanttomakesurethesehomesaresafeandgoodqualityfor tenants." She added: "While we have seen significant improvements, we believe that another additional HMO licensing scheme is necessary to maintain and improve the management of HMOsinBrent.

"We want to encourage residents to give their opinions on these newproposalsforHMOs."

New rules begin on second homes and holiday lets

Some people in north Wales will need to get planning permissiontoturnahouseintoaholidayletorasecondhome. CyngorGwyneddhaschangedtherulestotacklewhatitcallsa "huge housing crisis", saying people buying houses to use as holiday lets and second homes has pushed prices up higher thanlocalscanafford,andreducedthenumberofproperties available. But opponents of the change have said it would devalue every home in the area, and make houses harder to sell.GwyneddisthefirstareainWalestobringintheArticle4 direction.AbersochontheLlŷnpeninsulaisoneoftheareasin Wales with the biggest number of second homes and holiday lets.

Acampaigngroup,PeopleofGwyneddAgainstArticle4,has raised money to fund a legal challenge. But many people in Gwyneddsupportthechangeintherules,

The new rules in Gwynedd have been made possible because theWelshgovernmentchangedplanningregulationstocreate three new classes of use: main home, second home or shortterm holiday accommodation. If planning authorities put an Article 4 direction in place, they can insist that people get permissiontochangeahomefromonetypetoanother. SecondhomeownersinGwyneddalreadypaya250%council taxrate.DyfrigSiencyn(pic),leaderofCyngorGwyneddsaid: "Thishasbeenanemotivesubject,andwehavebeenlistening topeople'sconcerns."Wedon'twantto

seeacollapseinthehousingmarket.Atthismomentintime, thereisnoevidencethatitwillhaveasubstantialeffectonthe market,butwewillbekeepingacloseeyeontheimpact."

He added that research showed a significant proportion of peopleinGwyneddwerepricedoutofthehousingmarketand by introducing an Article 4 direction, the council had a new tooltotrytocontroltheimpactofsecondhomesandholiday accommodation.

Totrytomanagetheimpactofsecondhomesandholidaylets on communities, planning changes have been introduced in Wales.

This means planning authorities like councils and national parkscanintroducewhatisknownasanArticle4directionto managehousing.InGwynedd,ifmeansahomeownerwillneed planningpermissiontouseamainhomeasasecondhomeor short-termholidaylet;touseasecondhomeasaholidaylet;or touseaholidayletasasecondhome.

Thiswillnotaffectanyonewhohasapropertyalreadyusedas a second home or holiday let. Nobody will have to put in a retrospective planning application if the property's use is already established. At present, it would be possible to use a home for part of the year as a holiday let without getting planningpermission.

How former world record holder, Radcliffe, ran first marathon in 10 years - aged 51

Former world record holder Paula Radcliffe ran her first competitive marathoninadecadeinTokyo.

Radcliffe, 51, finished in a time of two hours, 57 minutes and 26 seconds - 10 years after ending her glittering athletics career at the 2015 London Marathon.

The Briton held the world record for 16 years from 2003 with a time of 2:15:25 before it was broken by Kenya's Brigid Kosgeiin2019.

And her former record was still faster than that recorded by Sunday's winner, Ethiopia's Sutume Asefa Kebede, who defended her Tokyo title in 2:16:31. Kenya's Winfridah Moraa Moseti was second in 2:16:56, with Ethiopia's Hawi Feysa third in 2:17:00. The men's race waswonbyEthiopia'sTadeseTakeleina time of 2:03:23 for his first major marathontitle. Ethiopia'sDeresaGeleta was

second in 2:03:51, with Kenya's Vincent Kipkemoi Ngetich third in 2:04:00. Uganda's double Olympic track championJoshuaCheptegeicameninth. Radcliffewassettoalsotakepartinthe BostonMarathonassheaimstocompete inallsixmajormarathons.Shercalled:"I turned 50 last year, am now 51, and thinkingaboutthegoalsI'vegotleftone of those was always to tick off the six marathonmajors.

"For most of my career it was five and then Tokyo was added so I never really hadtheopportunitytoraceTokyo.And BostonIneverdidbecauseitwassoclose to London." In addition to London, Boston and Tokyo, the other major marathons are Berlin, Chicago and New York.

Tennis legend, Serena, now co-owner

of WNBA’s

new team in Toronto, Canada

Tennis legend and entrepreneur, Serena Williams, is now a co-owner of the WNBA's newest team, the Toronto Tempo and is aiming to help build a legacyforfemaleathletesinCanada.

OnMarch3rd,theTorontoTempomade theannouncementthroughapressrelease shared on the WNBA’s website. Expressing her excitement, Williams emphasizedtheimportanceofinvestingin women’ssports.

“This moment is not just about basketball; it’s about showcasing the true value and potential of female athletes,” she said. Williams joins an ownership groupledbyTanenbaum,ChairofKilmer SportsVentures.

Her connection to Canada runs deep as she made her professional tennis debut there. Tempo President Teresa Resch praisedWilliamsforherimpactonsports andbusiness.“Serenaisachampion,”she said.

“She’sthegreatestathleteofalltime,and her impact on this team and this country is going to be incredible.” As part of her role, Williams will help shape the team’s image, including involvement in jersey designandboostingtheteam’svisibility.

The WNBA must still approve Williams’ ownership,andtheTorontoTempoisset tomakeitsdebutin2026.