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Take a chance on ‘unreal’ skills
An Army veteran has urged businesses to be more aware of the skills that former military personnel can bring to a workplace.
Joshua Davis entered civilian life after 11 years in the Armed Forces when he became a father. He now works at global engineering firm SSI Schaefer Group, whose head office is at Pury Hill Business Park near Towcester.
Joshua, 33, said that more companies need to consider that soldiers come with a wide variety of transferrable skills.
He said: “If I say to people that I was in the Army, people mostly assume that I was a soldier - they do not know the logistics of it all or the skills I have. My day-to-day job was fixing weapons and tanks so people might not know the qualifications I have got and the skills and experience that Army veterans can offer.
“It is about companies having better awareness of that. A lot of people in the Army pick things up really quickly as they have to be adaptable and quick-thinking. I know that if you take a chance on exmilitary personnel, you will see their skills are unreal.”
Joshua’s transition from a weapons engineer in the Army to deputy engineering manager at SSI Schaefer was aided by recruitment consultancy Wills Consultants. The consultancy has signed up to the Armed Forces Covenant pledging to support service personnel when they leave the forces. Now, after securing employment with Wills Consultants’ help, Joshua uses the Kettering-based company for his recruiting at SSI Schaefer.
“They were excellent,” he said. “They did a lot of preparation with me before the actual interview - a lot of recruiters do
not do that. They were really supportive.
“We get a lot of candidates through them and they are really good to work with. They get to know a candidate and their skillset. I found with a lot of recruiters they big you up then you do not really hear from them again but Wills have great communication and feedback.”
Wills Consultants’ co-founder and director Simon Wills (inset) said: “After helping him source his perfect position, it has been fantastic to continue working together to help Joshua build his team.
“Wills Consultants works with all military personnel to help them transition smoothly into civilian life. We understand that all-important first job after serving their country can be daunting to navigate and we offer as much support as a candidate requires to help them find the right role.”
Wills Consultants was among a handpicked list of forces-friendly employers and supporters invited to attend the first regional Engagement with Defence conference.
Simon and his wife and Wills Consultants co-founder Nikki heard General Sir Richard Barrons, former commander of the Joint Forces Command, argue that the UK’s Reserves should be bolstered to play a more significant role in national defence. Supportive employers are essential to building that important deterrence, he said.
Nikki said: “The incredible insights provided by the conference prove that the mutually beneficial relationships between business owners and UK Defence can be so impactful and we are proud to be a public supporter of our military.”
Mental health and the £51bn cost to UK employers
Poor mental health at work not only increases absence and lowers engagement. It also hits your bottom line, according to new research by professional services giant Deloitte. Presenteeism - where employees work despite feeling unwell - burn-out and family/personal issues head the list of factors affecting mental health in the workplace, the findings show.
And the issue is costing UK employers £51 billion a year. The figure shows a decrease from £56 billion last year but remains above the pre-pandemic level of £45 billion in 2019.
Deloitte estimates that the issue of presenteeism is the most costly to
employers, at £24 billion a year. Burn-out reduces productivity while issues around children’s mental health in turn affect working parents in terms of reduced hours or time off, costing employers an estimated £8 billion annually.
“These figures should grab every business owner’s attention,” said HR expert Rachel Collar, owner of Haus of HR in Towcester. However, employers are tackling the issue of mental health, with every £1 spent bringing a return of almost £4.70 in improved productivity.
“There are simple resolutions to achieve this,” Rachel (inset) said. Introduce regular surveys on
workload, management support and culture in order to gauge stress levels among staff. “Embedding mental health and wellbeing into your culture is also essential,” Rachel added. Flexible working helps employees to manage their caregiving responsibilities. Consider also a work-life balance culture that encourages time away from the office to recharge and support systems via Employee Assistance Programmes.
“Prioritising mental health and wellbeing cultivates a healthier, more productive workforce, safeguarding your business’s success,” Rachel said. “To me, this is non-negotiable.”
Joshua Davis
Putting hydrogen power to the test
Growing demand from customers seeking an alternative emissions decarbonisation process to electrification has led to specialist engineering subsidiary MAHLE Powertrain expanding its facility in Northampton.
The business, part of the MAHLE Group, is expanding its premises on St James Mill Road to include a dedicated hydrogen powertrain testing capability.
The centre will house two tube-trailers producing a near-continuous supply of hydrogen and upgraded engine
dynamometers will be installed to meet the increasing demand for hydrogen powertrains and testing of light- and heavy-duty applications.
“Off-highway, heavy-duty and marine sectors are increasingly looking to hydrogen combustion engines as a way of decarbonising their emissions in areas where electrification is not suitable,” said Simon Reader, MAHLE Powertrain’s director – global engineering.
“This expansion is in response to strong demand from our customers for this
type of work. It equips our test cells with a dedicated hydrogen supply to create a facility that can perform rigorous testing on even the most heavy-duty engines and their increased weight and torque characteristics.”
The facility in Northampton is already being used in the development of hydrogen fuel cell systems, hydrogen combustion engines and testing of hydrogen-fuelled vehicles.
It will also soon begin work on the development of an H2-ICE concept that converts existing heavy-duty diesel engines to hydrogen combustion, negating the need for wholesale replacement and capitalising on existing infrastructure to accelerate the transition towards net-zero mobility.
The facility’s supply side follows the British Compressed Gases Association guidance on the storage and handling of hydrogen. Each test cell features a MAHLE Powertrain-designed system for the monitoring and safe handling of potential gas escape.
The company also has knowledge and experience in developing engines adapted to run on renewable alcohol fuels such as methanol.
Cluster conference highlights engineering prowess
Speakers from the Ministry of Defence, US Army DEVCOM and law firm HCR Hewitsons drew a sell-out audience to Silverstone Technology Cluster’s annual showcase event, held in Northampton for the first time.
The conference, sponsored by West Northamptonshire Council in conjunction with business support organisations the South East Midlands Growth Hub and Buckinghamshire Business First, enabled presenters, organisers and delegates to debate, share knowledge and network.
Cllr Daniel Lister, cabinet member for local economy, culture and leisure at
West Northamptonshire Council, said:
“West Northants is an exceptional area for investment and growth and events like this demonstrate the diverse range of industries we support here. As a council,
we strive to continue doing all we can to support local businesses and drive positive economic growth in our area.”
The event, in previoous years held in Milton Keynes, provides attendees with an opportunity to listen to presentations, discuss, share knowledge, and network with business leaders across the cluster.
STC chief executive Pim van Baarsen paid tribute to the event’s supporters. “Their support to help us put together these types of events where we can bring the industry together and encourage collaboration are critical to foster and grow the advanced engineer ecosystem.”
Pim van Baarsen
Simon Reader
Broadband boost for town’s economy
Most businesses in Wellingborough are beginning to reap the benefit of full fibre broadband after completion of the town’s primary build network by provider CityFibre.
Construction began on the £14 million project in 2022 and CityFibre has since laid more than 136km of dense full fibre infrastructure across the town. It is looking to extend the network to business parks, new build properties and those on private or unadopted roads.
Charles Kitchin, CityFibre’s partnership manager, said: “This will provide a significant boost to the local economy, making the town one of the best-connected places in the country.”
CityFibre’s network supports download and upload speeds of up to 2.5GB per second and is capable of up to 10GBps.
Cllr David Howes, of North Northamptonshire Council, said: “The benefits of full fibre connectivity will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen the town’s digital infrastructure.”
‘Now is the right time
to invest in our stores’
Ajeweller that has traded in Northampton for more than 100 years has underlined its commitment to the town centre by completing a £3 million investment in its flagship store.
Michael Jones Jeweller, which is run as a co-operative, has had a presence in Northampton since 1919 and reopened its doors last month. The business has extended into a former hair salon next door, creating a new retail space. The original showroom has been transformed into a dedicated Rolex area over two floors including a VIP Rolex lounge.
“We wanted to create something truly special, underlining our commitment to Northampton town centre and giving our customers an unforgettable retail experience that simply cannot be replicated on the internet,” said managing director Stuart O’Grady.
“For over 100 years, Northampton has been our home and, with all the work going on to improve the local area, now feels the right time to underline our commitment to the town and invest in
our stores. This town has been very good to us over the years and this is our way of giving something back.”
The co-operative, which employs 45 staff, extended its showroom in Grosvenor Shopping Northampton last year. The Banbury showroom underwent a full refurbishment and expansion in 2020.
Mark Mullen, operations manager of Northampton Town Centre Business Improvement District, said: “It is heartening to see such a prominent retailer once again reaffirming their faith in Northampton’s retail offer and investing heavily in their premises.”
A toast to collaboration, not competition
More than 160 businesswomen were in Northampton for a two-day Female Founders Summit.
They attended events focused on business, marketing, health and wellness with speakers headlined by businesswoman, author and broadcaster Mary Portas, who spoke about her business and life story and about her vision of a “new era of business” away from old school structures and systems that will enhance the prospects for female leaders.
Speakers also included trauma therapist and coach Caroline Strawson who spoke about nervous system hacking
for optimal living. Menopause disruptor, educator and author Victoria Hardy won the audience over with an educational and humorous presentation on crushing the menopause taboo. Author and speaker Ife Thomas gave a highly emotive and moving talk on autism in business.
The summit was organised by business coach Lucienne Shakir. “It was magical. Every year we try and improve the event and this year we brought the house down,” she said. “There is nothing better than women celebrating women, lifting each other up and promoting collaboration over competition.
“To have held it in my home town of
Northampton for the first time was extra special and to have welcomed such incredible speakers and presenters over the two days was astonishingly brilliant.”
Female Founders Summit 2024 took place at venues including Delapré Abbey, Northampton Museum and Art Gallery, Northampton Film House, and Vulcan Works. It was held in partnership with local female-led organisations The Brady Creative, Goldings Communications and The Lewis Foundation.
All smiles at the Female Founders Summit.
Below: Businesswoman and author Mary Portas (right) in conversation
It’s a ‘Yes’: BID wins new five-year term
Businesses on Brackmills Industrial Estate have voted ‘Yes’ to another five years of Business Improvement District status.
The decision secures a fund of almost £2.3 million which will be spent on improving the estate over the next five years. The BID has also confirmed Jon Morgan, chief executive of vehicle repair and servicing company In ‘n’ Out Autocentres as its new chair.
Just over 87% of votes cast in the 2024 ballot voted in favour of the BID by total number of businesses and 88.6% of votes by rateable value.
BID chief executive Sara Homer said: “This is exciting news for everyone on Brackmills. Thanks to our ‘Yes’ vote we have secured a further five years of funding that will ensure our estate continues to thrive. Looking ahead, our focus will be on delivering a clear plan that has security, safety, infrastructure, the environment, our businesses and people at the very heart of all we do.”
The new BID has clear objectives:
Infrastructure
To provide a great infrastructure and a smart working environment for businesses to operate and people and services to access and move around, safely and effectively.
Crime prevention and safety
To work closely with the Police and others to maintain a safe and secure working environment for freight transport, all vehicles, customers and people who work on the estate.
Environment and sustainability
To provide a smart, tidy and safe environment and focus on sustainability,
exploring options for electric vehicle charging points – supporting businesses on their low carbon journeys. Supporting businesses and people
To continue to support businesses on Brackmills to grow and develop, ensuring a great working environment in which people can thrive.
“Brackmills is far more than just a place to work and is always buzzing with life and people,” said Jon. “It is well cared for and well maintained and I am particularly proud of the green spaces and pocket parks. When In ‘n’ Out Autocentres first opened its Brackmills site in 2018 I was keen to find out more about the BID and promptly became a director. The BID team were looking for an office so I donated office space which is still the BID team’s permanent home.
“I am incredibly proud to be the BID’s new chair and keen to get to know as many of our Brackmills businesses as possible.”
Brackmills is home to more than 180 businesses and 11,000 employees and has held BID status for 15 years. A BID is an initiative in which businesses pool an annual levy and use the funds exclusively for the benefit of the estate.
“So many of the things you see on Brackmills now - the additional winter gritting, CCTV cameras, road improvements, additional security and clean green spaces - are because of the BID,” said its vice chair Charlotte Patrick. “We will continue to build on all of this. Our vision is for Brackmills to continue to be recognised as the premier business and logistics park in the country and we are confident about achieving this.”
Principal relishes college post
The new principal of Northampton College has pledged to take the college to the next level.
Jason Lancaster is preparing to succeed Pat Brennan-Barrett, who is departing this summer having transformed the college into one of the top five colleges in the country since she took the role ten years ago.
A former director of an Institute of Technology, Jason has held a series of senior leadership posts. He was previously vice principal for quality and performance at Northampton College between 2017 and 2019.
“I am delighted to be coming back, having thoroughly enjoyed my taste of life in the county a few years ago,” he said. “My time at this excellent college was hugely enjoyable and I was inspired then by the commitment of our staff to supporting our students to succeed and progress. I now want to help take it to the next level.”
His new role will focus on implementing the planned reforms of the further education sector over the next few years.
Pat was awarded the OBE in the 2023 King’s Birthday Honours list in recognition of her 36 years of service to further education. This has seen her play a key role in developing the post-16 education and skills agenda across the East Midlands and encouraging a commercial culture to tackle competition in the sector. Projects developed under her leadership include the delivery of a £6.5 million Digital Academy, a new community-focused campus in Daventry and a £4.75 million Advanced Construction Engineering Centre at Northampton’s Booth Lane. She said: “The privilege of being principal of such a wonderful college is something that I cherish every day. We are very much the ‘college in the community’ and this is something I am particularly proud of.”
Professor Helen Scott, chair of the college’s Corporation of Governors, added: “We are truly grateful for her legacy.”
Jason Lancaster
Jon Morgan, the new chair of Brackmills BID, with chief executive Sara Homer (centre) and vice-chair Charlotte Patrick
News: Appointments
Relishing the opportunities ahead
Partner Jonathan Hunter, who has been at Northamptonshire practice GSSArchitecture for 23 years, is the firm’s new senior partner. He succeeds Tom Lyons, who retired last month.
Jonathan joined the firm as a graduate architectural technologist and was promoted to associate in 2007 and partner three years later. He was responsible for GSSArchitecture opening an office in Yorkshire in 2009 and a studio in Newcastle in 2016.
“We have a fantastic team at GSS, full of dedicated and creative people who are at the heart of what we do,” he said. “There are many exciting opportunities for
us to grow the business together.”
As senior partner, Jonathan will focus on the practice’s growth plans nationally. “Stepping into this new role as senior partner is an honour. I have a duty to do my best for this practice and to represent every member of our extensive team in the best possible way.”
Jonathan has worked alongside the practice’s managing partner Ian Bray. “We have been planning for Tom’s retirement for the past few years to ensure we have a robust succession plan and management structure in place to deliver a seamless transition for our clients and teams,” Ian said.
Looking forward to a productive presidency
The new president of the Wellingborough and East Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce is making it her mission to showcase what the area has to offer.
Donna French wants to work with Chamber members to help them to grow their brand by raising their profile with the Chamber’s support.
Donna, centre manager at Rushden Lakes, became president at the WENCC’s annual meeting last month. She succeeds Pritesh Ganatra, who had been president since 2021.
Pritesh remains as the Chamber’s vice president. His successor as president has been a member of the Chamber’s executive committee for several years.
“Without Pritesh’s guidance, I would not be here now picking up the mantle
Jonathan Hunter (right) and Ian Bray
for the role of president and being given the opportunity to move the Chamber forward to its next chapter,” said Donna.
“I look forward to a productive and proactive presidency to drive member interaction, to support businesses across the area and to drive increased membership to the Chamber. The Chamber brings businesses and organisations together, helps independent firms to grow and engages with communities whilst sharing ways of promoting your business, charity or community.”
A new champion of business needs
The man responsible for delivering the most important development project in Northampton in decades has joined the board of Northampton Town centre Business Improvement District.
Cllr Dan Lister, cabinet member for local economy, culture and leisure at West Northamptonshire Council, is leading on work to revitalise the Market Square, Abington Street, Fish Street and other public realm projects.
He will now join a panel of business leaders to oversee the BID’s work as it looks to make the town centre a better place to work, live and visit. “Working with the BID will be mutually beneficial, ensuring business needs are met throughout the town during this period of transformation,” Dan said.
The BID’s board is working with the council to ensure the voice of business owners is heard throughout the programme of redevelopment works.
BID operations manager Mark Mullen said: “We know there continue to be many challenges for businesses as the redevelopment work goes on around them but we are supporting them every step of the way. We will continue to
strive to deliver projects of value for our businesses that attract more people into our town centre.”
Work continues on the Market Square and Abington Street regenerations, the STACK development and on plans for Greyfriars and Waterside. “This truly is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Dan. “Numerous other exciting projects are also in progress, with more on the horizon, to transform our county town into a vibrant destination for residents and a thriving hub for businesses.”
If you’re struggling with your
Donna French
Cllr Dan Lister
The power behind Red Bull’s new hyper car
Engineers at Cosworth in Northampton have begun work developing the V10 engine to power the new RB17, of which only 50 will be manufactured.
It is Red Bull’s groundbreaking new hyper car, unveiled last month at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.
And the Milton Keynes-based company has confirmed that the car will be powered by the latest powertrain technology developed at Northamptonbased Cosworth.
Red Bull has confirmed Cosworth as its engine partner for the RB17, of which only 50 will be manufactured.
Photo: Red Bull
The partnership with Red Bull underscores Cosworth’s position as the global leader in high performance powertrains, the company said. Cosworth technology already powers several other hypercar models.
Cosworth chief executive Dr Florian Kamelger (inset) said: “Developing high-performance engines is what the company was created to do. Developing this V10 for a multiple Formula 1 world championship-winning business such as Red Bull is fantastic for the Cosworth brand, especially when we can let this one ring out all the way to 15,000rpm.
“We are thrilled to be building
on our relationship with Red Bull and bringing together some of the greatest minds in the industry to produce a truly world-class machine. We are well under way with development. It has already been a year since we began the project and we are looking forward to sharing more about this enthralling partnership.”
The RB17 has been unveiled as part of Red Bull’s 20th anniversary celebrations. Development of the engine began in June last year. It will be based on technology taken directly from F1, which enabled V10s of the 2000s such as the Cosworth TJ2005 that powered the Red Bull’s debut RB1, to rev beyond 19,000rpm.
The RB17 engine speed will be electronically limited to 15,000rpm - the same as today’s F1 engines. This is part of the specification that enables Cosworth to meet Red Bull’s engine life span requirement of 24,000 kilometres and meets the stringent requirements of Euro 6 legislation.
Cosworth has worked on the production of powertrains for several hypercars including the 6.5-litre V12 for the Aston Martin Valkyrie, the 3.9-litre V12 for Gordon Murray Automotive’s T.50, T.33 and T.33 Spider and most recently the Bugatti Tourbillon’s 8.3-litre V16.
Acquisition pays immediate dividends
The acquisition of a fellow logistics company, a major rebrand and name change has led to swift rewards for Northampton-based Xtra Express Logistics.
The company acquired Brackmillsbased parcel and pallet business Action Express Northampton 12 months ago and has now released year-end numbers reflecting a £30 million increase in turnover and a 25% rise in sales at its Brackmills base.
Managing director Edward GrantSalmon said: “The acquisition of Action Express Logistics is one of the most positive business decisions we have made in years. We are extremely happy
with the way things are going and to have achieved the figures we have, despite the costs of the acquisition and rebrand and the unsettled economy, is phenomenal. “
The business has increased its sales team from one to four people, won a total £2.5 million worth of new contracts and added to its vehicle fleet. It also appeared in the Northamptonshire Limited list of the county’s top 100 private companies, compiled by professional services firm Grant Thornton.
“Now we want to make a real push on sales with our new sales team and are in the process of updating the curtains on our lorries, switching them over to the new branding,” said Edward.
Academy initiative targets female HGV drivers
Logistics giant XPO has created a new Female Driver Academy to help attract more women into the industry. Female drivers who join the Academy will undertake a 12- to 16week programme delivered by the XPO Logistics internal driver training team. The first candidates joined the programme in May and are expected to begin driving as a career this month. XPO’s client Saint-Gobain UK & Ireland has backed the initiative by offering jobs for successful applicants as they begin their training.
Lynn Brown, XPO Logistics’ vice president, human resources - UK & Ireland, said: “We will be employing the candidates from day one so they can earn a living while training. Our trainer will buddy our candidates, ensuring they can learn from someone who has first-hand experience of what they are going through and can provide the best possible support.”
The first Female Driver Academy candidates are expected to start driving HGVs full-time for XPO by August this year.
The XPO Female Driver Academy is part of the company’s Driver Excellence Academy, which was established to help anyone over the age of 18 wishing to train as an HGV driver. Each Driver Excellence Academy trainee works towards receiving the relevant qualification for the type of vehicle they want to drive.
n XPO’s UK & Ireland headquarters and national distribution hub at Crick has been certified as carbon neutral for the second consecutive year. The company has reduced the site’s carbon intensity by around a quarter through initiatives including clean energy, waste reduction and expanding its fleet of electric company cars. The savings will be invested in other sustainability initiatives.
(from left) Roman Stajila, Charles Grant-Salmon and Edward Grant-Salmon of Xtra Express Logistics
Investing in the future of engineering
A family-owned company, which produces two billion components a year, is celebrating its ten year relationship with Tresham College.
Spirol, which has 14 locations across the world including one in Corby, is an expert in the fastening, joining and assembly industry. Its products include everything from the pins for yoyo and climbing carabiners to essential elements for agricultural equipment, cars and aircraft.
Spirol UK managing director Simon Ward said: “Our working relationship with Tresham College has allowed us to train our specialist engineers as part of our heavy investment in apprenticeships and the future of the industry.”
Current apprentices Callum Richmond and Denis Horvat (pictured above) are on the three-year apprenticeship course, attending Tresham College in Corby one day a week.
The two apprentices are following in their fathers’ footsteps who also work at Spirol. However, they had to earn their place within the company and are working hard in their chosen areas of toolmaking and maintenance.
Callum said: “We get a great foundation in engineering at college which we can then use and apply to the specialist manufacturing we do here at Spirol.”
Tresham College’s head of engineering Simon Clark said strong industry links are essential to helping students find employment. “We have a wide range of engineering courses designed to equip students with a broad base of skills. But we also like to work closely with employers to make sure we have the right course content to meet their needs. We can also support their training up to HND level, so they can progress in the industry.”
Lab breakthrough set to change leather sector
The future of lab-grown skin is set to skyrocket thanks to an accelerated knowledge transfer partnership between the University of Northampton and 3D Bio-Tissues.
The university has partnered with 3DBT, a UK-based biotech start-up, to produce lab-grown skin from cells for the development of an ethical and sustainable product, enabling the leather industry to meet the ever increasing demand for environmentally and animalconscious leather products.
This 15-week project applies conventional leather processing technologies to advanced biomaterials provided by 3DBT.
Project lead Dr Anne Lama, the university’s senior lecturer in biomedical science, said: “It is a fantastic opportunity to explore a new area of application, to be a part of it and to work in close partnership with 3D Bio-Tissues to achieve this aim.
“Reflecting on the direction of this research, who knows? Maybe one day we will see footwear, apparel, handbags, furniture, fashion, automotive and accessories made from bioengineered skins.”
“This initiative will address the growing demand for
both conventional and alternative leathers as we strive for a more sustainable future.”
This pioneering research is the brainchild of former UoN associate professor of leather technology Dr Andrew Ballantyne, senior R&D scientist Dr Emily Telford, and UoN graduate leather technician Bethany Hudson. Through working collaboratively, the team has already started to see promising results.
Emily said: “We are really excited to be working with the University of Northampton to merge our innovative bioengineered skin with their vast knowledge of traditional leather processing techniques. We believe this initiative will address the growing demand for both conventional and alternative leathers as we strive for a more sustainable future.”
This novel cultivated leather could provide greater sustainability and customer perception benefits to the leather industry whilst maintaining traditional processes at the core of leather manufacturing.
UoN’s professor of leather science Will Wise said: “This project has far-reaching scope which will allow us to understand more about the fundamentals of collagen modification as well as developing a new biomaterial for commercial use. It is fantastic to be a part of it, and to work in close partnership with 3D Bio-Tissues to achieve their goals.”
n Visit northampton.ac.uk/business to find out more about how the University of Northampton can support your business.
(from left) Professor Will Wise, Dr Anne Lama and Associate Professor Andrew Ballantyne
Northamptonshire Manufacturing Week to champion local industry
Northamptonshire is set to host its inaugural Manufacturing Week from 23rd to 27th September, a celebration aimed at highlighting the strength and innovation within the local manufacturing sector.
This week-long series of events is poised to bring together key stakeholders, industry experts and local businesses to foster collaboration and showcase the latest advancements in manufacturing.
The highlight of the week will be National Manufacturing Day on 26th September, featuring an exciting event at Vulcan Works in Northampton. Attendees can look forward to insightful discussions, networking opportunities and a chance to explore the innovations shaping the future of manufacturing.
Cassandra Campbell, Marketing Manager at Paradise Computing, a leading provider of manufacturing and logistics business software, is
spearheading the initiative. “It is incredibly exciting to be organising the first Northamptonshire Manufacturing Week,” Cassandra said.
“The importance of collaboration and supporting our local industry cannot be overstated and the support we have received has been overwhelming. We are thrilled to bring together key stakeholders, local businesses and public sector bodies to celebrate and champion the strength
of our manufacturing community.”
The event has garnered support from prominent organisations including Sage UK, Sicon, Ingram Micro, The Manufacturer, Northamptonshire Manufacturing Forum, Made in Northamptonshire, Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce, NNBN, the University of Northampton, Tresham College and Northampton College.
Local businesses such as Paradise Training, Reed, Hawsons Chartered Accountants, Business Doctors, Vulcan Works and Total Control Pro are also lending their support.
Business Times is Northamptonshire Manufacturing Week’s official media partner. Director Martin Lewis-Stevenson said: “Manufacturing is a cornerstone of our local economy and Northamptonshire Manufacturing Week is a fantastic initiative to bring together and celebrate the sector’s many achievements.”
n To get involved and view a schedule of events, visit paradisecomputing.co.uk/NNMFG or call Cassandra on 01604 655900. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate the vibrant manufacturing community in Northamptonshire.
Cassandra Campbell
Growth on the menu as food giant Greggs submits plans for national distribution centre
Food manufacturer Greggs has submitted plans to build its new national distribution centre at Symmetry Park in Kettering.
The company and developer Tritax Symmetry are proposing more than 311,000 sq ft of logistics space on a 25acre site.
The centre is part of Greggs’ strategic growth plan, announced in 2021, which set out expansion targets that require investment in significant supply chain capacity. Greggs currently has 2,500
shops in the UK and its longer-term growth plans target an estate of significantly more than 3,000 retail outlets.
The planned investment at Kettering will bolster its capacity to directly supply ambient and chilled products to a growing portfolio of shops, said a spokesman.
Tritax Symmetry is also seeking planning permission for an additional 100,000 sq ft to enable Greggs to expand the site further.
The centre will be a key part of
Lifestyle logistics specialist signs to open its largest UK warehouse
Fashion and lifestyle logistics specialist Bleckmann is set to move into its largest warehouse in the UK, at Magna Park in Corby.
The company has signed a new lease agreement for the 587,662 sq ft MPC3 building. It is the third such deal with Magna Park’s developer GLP. Bleckmann also has two facilities at Magna Park Lutterworth in Leicestershire.
“The combination of availability, capacity and sustainability was unique and perfectly matched our requirements,” said Mark Van Onna, Bleckmann’s general manager real estate. “With a BREEAM Outstanding certificate, this is a futureproof building which we have added to the Bleckmann UK portfolio.”
Magna Park Corby is fast becoming an established logistics hub and will be home to sports equipment giant Nike’s
new logistics campus and national supply chain hub following the signing of a lease agreement announced in May.
Founded in 1862, Bleckmann has evolved from a transport company into a full supply chain solutions provider with a specific expertise in e-fulfilment solutions in the fashion and lifestyle industry.
James Atkinson, GLP’s development director, said: “Magna Park Corby’s importance as a logistics hub is strengthened by this significant agreement with Bleckmann. Their decision to establish a presence at Magna Park Corby recognises the UK as being a crucial growth market for their business. We continue to see strong demand for modern best-in-class, sustainable logistics warehouses and are delighted to see Magna Park Corby continuing to grow.”
Symmetry Park, Kettering, which extends to 136 acres in total and benefits from outline planning permission for a total of 2.31 million sq ft of logistics floor space.
Subject to the go-ahead from North Northamptonshire Council, Greggs anticipates its National Distribution Centre at Symmetry Park to be operational in the first half of 2027.
Symmetry Park is currently home to USbased data centre storage provider Iron Mountain, which has occupied a 313,000 sq ft unit on a 15-year lease since 2023.
Expansion plans move up a gear
Oil distributor prepares to switch across the county to boost its transport network. Andrew Gibbs reports.
Wholesale oil distributor Mannol UK has agreed a lease on a warehouse at Prologis Park Kettering as it continues its nationwide expansion plans.
The company is set to move from its current premises at Ravens Way in Northampton to take advantage of what it believes is an improved location for its national and international distribution network.
Mannol UK has signed a ten-year lease on the 154,452 sq ft DC4 building, built in 2007. Chief executive Jevgenij Lyzko said: “As we continue to grow, we were in need of a larger unit to cater for our expanding operations.
“We chose Prologis UK as our trusted partner to provide this. DC4 Kettering offers a large modern facility and has the benefit of great transport links to our distribution network and an array of welfare amenities for our workforce.”
The unit has been refurbished to an EPC A rating. The deal with Mannol allows for future upgrades as required.
Prologis UK’s leasing director Tom Price said: “DC4 and Prologis Park Kettering was the perfect fit for Mannol’s expanding operations. We upgraded DC4 to meet the same high-quality standards of our current generation buildings in order to
match customer expectations.
“We look forward to welcoming Mannol and watching the business grow and take advantage of all that the location offers.”
Commercial agents Louch Shacklock acted for Mannol UK. ILPP and Cushman and Wakefield acted for Prologis UK.
Fashion distribution company Bleckmann’s new warehouse.
“Magna Park Corby’s importance as a logistics hub is strengthened by this significant agreement,” said developer GLP’s development director James Atkinson
Jevgenij Lysko
Meeting the demand for renewable heating
It may seem strange to be thinking about heating in the middle of summer but Burton Latimer-based Griffiths Air Conditioning is doing just that.
As one of Northamptonshire’s leading installers of renewable heating, Griffiths is planning to deal with the constantly growing demand for heat pump heating in both new build projects and from property owners wishing to move away from fossil fuels while gaining the
financial reward of the government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
Daikin is a worldwide brand and its Altherma air source heat pumps have been installed by Griffiths since 2008, the year in which Griffiths became the first Microgeneration Certification Schemeapproved installer of heat pumps in Northamptonshire.
All domestic and small commercial heat pump installations will qualify for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme if the property was previously heated by a gas boiler, oil boiler or electric night storage heaters. The scheme has certain criteria that must be complied with and that is where an experienced installer such as Griffiths can provide useful advice.
In addition, it is good to know that all heat pump domestic installations are currently zero-rated for VAT.
MEM RECRUITMENT
Recruitment agency moves to new high street branch office
Recruitment agency MEM Recruitment has moved to new offices in Wellingborough. The company has vacated its home of 25 years in Sheep Street for new premises in High Street.
Sales director Rebecca Sanders said:
“Throughout our time on Sheep Street, we have had the pleasure of serving countless individuals and businesses in the Wellingborough area and this will
continue. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported us over the years. As MEM Recruitment continues to grow and evolve under the leadership of our new directors, we are excited to embrace a new vision for the future.”
The new High Street location is a more spacious and modern environment, better suited to the company’s growth plans, she added.
VULCAN WORKS
Co-working space supports local charities
Business support hub Vulcan Works has launched a new charity initiative for the summer to support two Northamptonshire charities.
Charity Tuesdays sees the serviced workspace offer free hotdesking in the coworking space in exchange for a nominal charity donation.
The charity of choice last month was Cynthia Spencer Hospice. In August, all donations will be in aid of the Northamptonshire Community Foundation’s Family Food Aid Appeal which tackles food poverty in the county.
Vulcan Works also offers free coworking space to Northamptonshire businesses on the last Friday of every month.
Centre manager Garrick Hurter said: “Our bespoke coworking hubs are designed for go-getter freelancers, solopreneurs and small firms seeking more than the confines of working from home – but not quite a complete office suite.
“It is the perfect space for idea generation and, with our summer offers, it is a really affordable option which we hope will make the juggle easier for working parents over the summer holidays.
“We are also delighted to be able to support two really deserving local charities with the Tuesday initiative.”
Insurance brokers: #Myth versus #Reality
There are many ways to purchase an insurance policy today, with a lot of people moving to purchase their #insurance online it almost feels like a thing of the past to speak with someone when making such a purchase.
Often people think of an #insurancebroker as a ‘middle man’ who adds cost and inconvenience from the insurance purchase but this really could not be further from the truth. This idea is rubber-stamped by some #insurers suggesting you should go direct.
I will break that myth with some simple reasons as to why you should use an #insurancebroker.
SERVICE
#Brokers like us are not tied to any one #insurer. We have access to the whole insurance market via specially selected partner insurers. One quick chat with us and we can identify the right policy to #meetyourneeds. That means you get the #rightcover and the #rightprice.
#Insurance is complex and often quite confusing. As #insurancebrokers, we are expected by the Financial Conduct Authority to have a certain level of knowledge, competence and professionalism.
Often insurance is purchased on price, with most people not realising they are not adequately covered. Our expertise enables us to understand your needs and provide appropriate advice to find the right policy for you.
Personal service is our biggest selling point. When you purchase your policy through us, you will be provided with direct access to your broker executive by phone and email.
COVER
Purchasing insurance online is often completed on a ‘non-advised’ basis. This means that no advice has been given and you have purchased your insurance policy on the basis that you
Danny
Flowers, managing director of Motum Insurance Services, outlines the advantages of using an insurance broker for business and personal insurance.
understand what you need and what you are purchasing.
We see time and time again people underinsured or, even worse, not insured at all. Insurers at times put specific restrictions on your policy; as a broker, we will try to find an alternative and if we cannot, we will draw your attention to this and support you to make any relevant adaptations.
Direct insurers can offer you one product: theirs. As a broker, Motum Insurance Services has access to the whole of the insurance market, enabling us to find the right policy for you at the right price.
PRICE
It is a myth that brokers increase the cost of a premium. In fact, brokers can often provide a cheaper premium than going to an insurer direct.
The reason is simple. A brokerplaced policy presents less of a risk to an insurer than a consumer purchasing direct. This is because brokers are professional experts in their field. The broker’s role is to find the right policy and right cover at the right price, avoiding claims and ultimately protecting the insurer’s premium income.
At Motum Insurance Services, we specialist in reducing your risk and work with specially selected partners to achieve this. Insurers like working with brokers like us who will help you to understand your risks and ultimately reduce your chances of needing to make a claim.
CLAIMS
A broker’s role is to act on your behalf and not the insurers. As a broker, we take full control of your #claim, ensure the #service is as expected and you are correctly #indemnified.
Motum is a step ahead on this as well. Motum Insurance Services is part of a wider group of companies that specialise in claims. We have our in-house claims experts, repair and recovery networks across the UK and our own in-group client engagement system.
Not only do we answer your call in under 90 seconds but we also manage the claim from start to finish so you can sit back, relax and let us do all of the work.
The true value of an insurance policy is when you need it most.
Danny Flowers
SME MK & Buckinghamshire Business Awards
Doing the right things in the right way
Celebrations are continuing at the offices of Pulse Group Media after director Kerry Lewis-Stevenson was named Business Person of the Year at the SME Milton Keynes & Buckinghamshire Business Awards.
The award was one of a total 23 handed out on the night at a gala dinner and ceremony held at the DoubleTree by Hilton, Stadium MK. Hundreds of businesspeople from the city and the county were there to cheer the winners and other award recipients.
“I am delighted,” said Kerry. “It was a total surprise as the quality of entry was just superb. But it is wonderful to know that our work here at Pulse Group Media is being judged by some of the most respected business leaders locally as being of the highest quality.”
Pulse Group Media publishes the monthly business magazine Business MK in Milton Keynes and Business Times in Northamptonshire. Also in the publishing portfolio are MK Pulse and NN Pulse, glossy lifestyle magazines read by thousands every month at home.
“For me, this award confirms that we are doing the right things and going about it in the right way,” said Kerry.
Purring with delight was the team at
Pickles Pet Pantry after the Olney-based pet supply store took home gold in two categories: New Business and Retailer of the Year. “Winning is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire team,” said owner Katie Parker. “We strive to provide the best products and services to our customers and their beloved pets. This recognition motivates us to continue our mission.”
The store provides a range of pet products including food, accessories, toys and animal healthcare. “Our success is deeply rooted in our community and we are grateful for the continued support from our customers,” said Katie.
The Employer of the Year crown went to law firm Neves Solicitors. Managing partner Stewart Matthews said: “We are proud of the inclusive working environment and culture we have cultivated at Neves. Our team members are central to our operations and we are pleased this has been recognised by an independent panel of business leaders.”
Overall winner and Business of the Year is Mirus IT Solutions, which also won the High Growth Business of the Year award. Business director Dan Sharp said: “We would like to say a massive thank-you to our customers for trusting us with their IT, communication and print needs and to
Apprentice Employer of the Year
Gold Culwood House
CH4B Best Enterprising Business
Gold Carly’s Candle Company
Silver WAAM3D
Neves Solicitors Best New Business
Gold Pickles Pet Pantry
Silver King Productions
Buckinghamshire Business of the Year
Gold Nutshell Creative
Shoosmiths Business of the Year
(less than 50 employees)
Gold Starpeak Insurance Solutions
Silver Laceys Family Farm
Business of the Year (50+ employees)
Gold Camphill MK Communities
Silver MA Group Property Claims
The South East Midlands Growth Hub
Business Innovation
Gold Entire Club
Silver T King Associates
University of Buckingham
Business Woman of the Year
Gold Lindsay McInnis - D.O.T.S.
Chiropractic
Silver Hannah Seraj - Beyond Pubs & Dining
Snowdonia Hub
Business Person of the Year
Gold Kerry Lewis-Stevenson - Pulse
Group Media
Silver Sarah Watt - Alt Street Property
MKFM Community Business of the Year
Gold Safety Centre
Silver MK Food Bank
Profile Resourcing
Corporate Social Responsiility
Gold Alt Street Property
Silver EWI Pro
MK Theatre Employer of the Year
Gold Neves Solicitors LLP
Silver Pragmatiq
Neves Solicitors
Family Business of the Year
Gold Laceys Family Farm
Silver Landmark Property Solutions
Capital Space
Milton Keynes Business of the Year
Gold WAAM3D
Silver D.O.T.S. Chiropractic
MK Theatre
High Growth Business of the Year
Gold Mirus IT Solutions
Silver EWI Store
Networking Group of the Year
Gold Collaborate MK
Silver MKPCN
Profile Resourcing
Positive Impact Award
Gold MumPod Company
Retail Business of the Year
Gold Pickles Pet Pantry
Silver Hazlemere Window Co.
MKFM Sustainability Award
Gold T King Associates
Silver Kimble Solar
Handelsbanken Service Excellence
Gold Pragmatiq
Silver Janno Media
Business MK/MK Pulse
Website of the Year
Gold Watson Morris Family Law
Silver HR Results
Have I Got Brews For You
Young Business Person of the Year
Gold Reece Hussain – Global Exposure Business of the Year
Mirus IT Solutions
the SME Business Awards for what was an excellent evening.”
Mirus IT Solutions, like many of the other winners, now goes forward to the SME National Business Awards at Wembley Stadium in December.
Mirus IT Solutions, High Growth Business of the Year and winner of the overall Business of the Year award for 2024.
Right: A four-legged friend joins Pickles Pet Pantry’s double celebration as Best New Business and Retail Business of the Year
below: Kerry Lewis-Stevenson, director of Business MK publisher Pulse Group Media, is this year’s Business Person of the Year. She is pictured with Chris Davies, of award sponsor Snowdonia Hub
“Winning Gold for Business Woman of the Year and Silver in the Milton Keynes Business of the Year at the SME MK & Buckinghamshire Business Awards is an incredible honour.
“It reflects our team’s dedication and commitment to excellence in patient care and business innovation. These accolades validate our hard work and inspire us to continue pushing boundaries in the chiropractic field.
“We are immensely proud of our achievements and grateful for the recognition. This success fuels our passion to further serve our community and set new standards in healthcare.”
LINDSAY MCINNIS Director & Doctor of Chirporactic
DOTSchiropractic.co.uk
01908 229663 | beawesome@dotschiropractic.co.uk
Here at Neves, we put our staff at the heart of everything we do so we’re thrilled to have secured the Employer of the Year Gold Award in such a highly competitive category, making this an outstanding accomplishment for the firm.
Stewart Matthews, Managing Partner and Head of Company Commercial Law, said: “This is a fantastic achievement and is testament to everyone’s hard work and dedication to the firm. It’s great that the culture and environment that we have created here at Neves, by all working together, has been recognised by an independent panel of business leaders.”
We’re more than just legal experts. We’re trusted advisers who take the time to really understand your issues.
www.nevesllp.co.uk
0330 0945 500 info@nevesllp.co.uk
Camphill MK won Best Business in MK (with more than 50 employees), proving itself not just an incredible charity but also as a key business in Milton Keynes.
The panel recognised its significant growth, doubling staff numbers over the past five years while prioritising the diversification of their staff pool. Camphill MK’s training programme has resulted in 23 internal promotions and partnerships across Milton Keynes really set Camphill MK apart. Camphill MK refuses to stand still and is currently building the first of six houses on site as part of a £15 million capital programme to support even more adults with disabilities.
Creating communities who live, learn, work and celebrate life together camphillmk.co.uk
Three cheers for the winners at the SME Milton Keynes & Buckinghamshire Business Awards
Pictured
The distillery savouring the taste of success
Andrew Gibbs talks to Laurence Conisbee, founder of Northamptonshire whisky distillery (and more) Wharf Distillery, about the rise in popularity of English-made whisky and the increasing number of distilleries at work south of the Scottish border.
Whisky. Traditionally the preserve of the Scots and Irish who made the distilling art their own for hundreds of years.
But now there are new kids on the block, other nations making their mark. Japanese whisky is fast becoming among the most sought-after in the world. Sweden is one of the most impressive new forces, carving a niche for itself in a crowded global scene.
And Scotland and Ireland have a rival closer to home. English whisky is on the up, with around 50,000 casks forecast to be laid down by distilleries around the country by the end of this year. The value of this maturing stock is forecast to top £1 billion.
English whisky is witnessing unprecedented growth, with drinkers across the world discovering a spirit
produced with a huge diversity of flavours and to the highest standards.
The nation is home to 45 distilleries and a string of national awards. Many are members of the English Whisky Guild, founded in 2022 by 11 distilleries wanting their products to be recognised around the world. One founding member is Wharf Distillery in Towcester.
“It felt like we were all competing for the same market but by working collaboratively you are creating more opportunity for everyone,” said Wharf Distillery’s founder and managing director Laurence Conisbee.
Laurence was among the first for more than a century to explore the commercial potential of English whisky. Formerly an IT manager for news agency Reuters, his first foray into drinks manufacture took place in his back garden in Milton Keynes in 2009 when he began his Virtual Orchard cider-making venture and won CAMRA’s Champion Cider award with his Hard Core cider in 2011. Alongside cider, Virtual Orchard manufactured mead, juices and apple brandy. In 2017 Laurence decided to refocus solely on distilling and founded Wharf Distillery.
External forces persuaded Laurence to begin to move the business up the A5 towards its current home in Towcester, first to Wakefield Country Courtyard, then to Cherry Lane Garden Centre. Then a stop at Whittlebury before moving into the distillery’s current premises , a former steel fabrication plant that Laurence took on to enable its former owners to retire.
“I used to work for Reuters, managing their IT department and then went to work for Computer Centre managing 900 people,” said Laurence. “But I had started to make cider in my garden and when I was made redundant, I was left with a choice
“I have had redundancy three times in my career but I always see it as an opportunity. We had just won CAMRA’s Champion Cider and we had a cider
Laurence Conisbee
brandy on the go. I always like a bit of risk in my life and I thought that if I did not do this now someone else will so I went for it.”
Wharf Distillery is the only grain to glass distillery in Northamptonshire. It does not buy in neutral spirit to manufacture its products; rather, it ferments its raw ingredients to create the initial base alcohol. The distillery still works with a local brewery that provides the malted barley, adds the water and drains out the fermentation sugars before the liquid is returned to Towcester and laid down for three years in wood casks that give the whisky its flavour.
The first whisky laid down by Laurence in 2014 – Cattle Creek whisky, a nod to its collaboration with the Concrete Cow Brewery in Milton Keynes – was the first English whisky in more than a century.
Wharf Distillery produces two whiskies: Equinox, stilled and laid in a port wood quarter cask storing 160 litres for three to four years which gives the whisky a portcoloured red tinge, and Solstice, stilled in a madeira wood cask of between 55 litres and 160 litres. The wood gives it a more golden hue.
“The whiskies have their names to reflect their scarcity,” said Laurence. “There is only two of them each year and we sell them at the equinox or solstice time of year.
“We do not promote the whisky too much. It has gathered momentum through word of mouth and happy customers coming back for more.”
Initial sales were online but now customers visit the distillery and shop itself. “They come from all over the world. One man from Texas flies over for every new release , others come from New Zealand, Australia as well as the USA and the UK of course.”
Wharf Distillery is a dark spirits distillery of which whisky is only part. It also manufactures its own gin range, dark rum, brandy and vodka. Its Towcester Gin is its most popular product.
“We are trying to create more of a venue, hosting events, tours, tastings... We want this to be a hub for people to come to.”
90% of the business is contract stilling, creating spirits for clients. The business supplies shops, delicatessens and individuals who want their own brand and for other organisations.
The business creates Bletchley Park Gin and a special gin to mark the 600th anniversary of the Royal Latin School in Buckingham as part of its fundraising campaign. It has a client in Hong Kong for whom it stills the distinctively named Fok Hing Gin.
“We still for people who want to make spirits their business,” said Laurence. “We have always catered for people at the
smaller end of the market, who are not interested in the margin and simply want a brand up and running.
The distillery employs two fulltime and three part-timers. Business is moving in the right direction but Laurence has his eye on the future as well.
“I would like to have direct sales up to 40% of our total business, at least 15% of those from the shop and the rest online. And we are trying to create more of a venue here, hosting events, tours of the distillery, tastings… We want this to be a hub for people to come to.”
With Silverstone on the doorstep, there is potential to increase visitor numbers significantly. Next door to the distillery, a cheese shop has opened offering a wide range of cheeses and tasting events on which Laurence hopes to collaborate.
“Towcester is a great place for us to be because it is expanding. 15,000 houses are planned for the town over the next ten years. Towcester has a huge opportunity to change the high street and I see us being a big part of that by expanding what we are doing here.”
Of the products Wharf Distillery manufactures, one has a special place in Laurence’s heart. “Apple brandy is my favourite because that is where it all started,” he said. “I love the simplicity of the whole thing but we are ahead of the curve with each whisky.”
ESG is undoubtedly an area of everincreasing importance for businesses, having significant influence over corporate behaviour and decisionmaking. There is increasing desire within and substantial pressure on businesses to implement ESG-positive policies and ensure they are compliant with new ESGrelated reporting requirements.
Tax itself has gained additional prominence on the boardroom agenda in recent years. This follows increasing rates and complexity and adverse media scrutiny on large multinationals that may have operated strategies which, despite following the letter of the law, sought to reduce their tax base through aggressive tax planning.
This scrutiny has only been enhanced by the Covid-19 pandemic and the rise of the ESG agenda as more focus is placed upon businesses having responsible tax strategies.
Taxes play a pivotal role in incentivising and regulating corporate behaviour across the environmental, social and governance dimensions.
From an environmental perspective, taxes such as carbon and plastic levies are essential tools for discouraging harmful practices and encouraging sustainable alternatives. They drive businesses to reduce their carbon footprint and adopt eco-friendly practices, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change and environmental degradation.
On the social front, taxes fund critical social services such as healthcare, education and pensions, contributing to a business’ social responsibility and its impact on communities.
Moreover, tax policies related to equal pay, living wages and remuneration policies promote fairness and equity in the workplace.
Businesses also have an opportunity to separate themselves from their competitors and demonstrate they are taking their social responsibilities seriously by supporting the long-term financial, mental and physical wellbeing of their staff through dynamic benefits, remuneration and equity incentives.
In terms of governance, taxes are closely tied to transparency, tax reporting and compliance, all of which are crucial components of good corporate governance practices.
While tax incentives and reliefs offer significant opportunities to businesses, new reporting requirements and environmental taxes often present a challenge, with rising costs and additional complexities to manage.
Ensuring tax is front of mind when implementing ESG policies will help businesses to make the most of the incentives available to them while avoiding any unnecessary pitfalls.
Organisations are under pressure to implement and abide by positive environmental, social and governance policies. David Stone, tax director at chartered accountants and business advisers MHA, looks at the tax aspects that play a big part in all three.
David Stone
ESG: Reap the benefit of tax incentives... and avoid the pitfalls
Key tax considerations often include
ENVIRONMENTAL
n Environmental taxes e.g. carbon and plastic taxes – managing the costs and administration burden.
n Green subsidies and tax incentives – optimising reliefs available to provide funding for ESG projects and other business needs.
SOCIAL
n Social insurance, health care and pensions – tax relief may be available and such measures help promote employee wellbeing and workforce engagement.
n Equal pay, living wages and remuneration policies - adherence to the law in these areas is monitored and enforced stringently by HMRC.
n Tax efficient and ‘green friendly’ employee incentives – offering incentives which are both environmentally friendly and tax efficient is now seen as a real positive to existing employees and during recruitment.
n Socially responsible and tax efficient exit strategies – for example, management buy-outs, or Employee Ownerships Trusts.
GOVERNANCE
n Tax governance, reporting and transparency – there has been a huge increase in recent years in the amount of tax governance legislation that businesses must adhere to, both domestically in the UK and internationally.
Shellplant secures substantial Thwaites dumper order from H.E. Services (Plant Hire) Ltd
Shellplant Ltd of Earls Barton is proud to announce that it has secured an order from H.E. Services (Plant Hire) Ltd for the supply of over 100 Thwaites dumpers.
The order includes Thwaites’ market leading One Tonne Hi Tip dumpers. Compact in size, with a width of 1195 mm for optimum stability, these are ideal machines for working in confined spaces or where access is limited. They also benefit from user-friendly hydrostatic transmission which makes operation simple, together with an effective and efficient skip loader.
Additionally, the order comprises Thwaites 3 Tonne Powerswivel dumpers which are also fitted with hydrostatic transmission for simple operation. The machines are powered by a Yanmar Stage V 18.1 kW engine which provides, via the hydrostatic transmission, optimum traction and control. Like the Thwaites One Tonne machines, the 3 Tonne Powerswivel dumpers are very simple and straightforward to control making them the ideal choice for hire fleets.
These machines, which are fitted with immobilisers and trackers, are now available to hire throughout the UK via H.E. Services (Plant Hire) Ltd network of 11 depots located across the UK mainland.
Shellplant and H.E. Services enjoy
a long heritage in the industry, both trading since 1972. This was the year when Hugh Edeleanu (founder of H.E. Services) purchased his first secondhand excavator, marking the start of H.E. Services. Since then, H.E. Services has grown to become Europe’s largest excavator hire company.
“We are proud to be purchasing British designed and British-built machinery from a British business that has an excellent dealer network in the UK to back up its top-quality products.”
Driving this has been the company’s commitment to people, quality and service. Now with a fleet of more than 3,500 items of plant, and a policy of machine replacement at three years, H.E. Services can provide hires for a duration of from one day to over 25 years, to anywhere in the country from Land’s End to John O’Groats.
Hugh Edeleanu, chairman, H.E. Services (Plant Hire) Ltd, said: “Thwaites dumpers have a long and good pedigree and have always been very well designed and built. We are proud to be purchasing British designed and British-built machinery from a very well-established British business that has an excellent dealer network in the UK to back up its top-quality products. Thwaites dumpers are always very well accepted on site and have a high level of safety features, with our customers giving us very good feedback on these machines.”
Shellplant partner Julian Payne said: “We are delighted to receive this large Thwaites dumper order from H.E. Services and thank them for the business.
“We look forward to supporting H.E. Services with their ongoing service requirements for the dumpers and, through high levels of customer service, to becoming a trusted supply partner in the future.”
Shellplant, an established supplier of new and used construction equipment, has been trading for over 50 years and represents many leading brands including Atlas Copco, Bomag, Kubota, Merlo and Thwaites, with a reputation within the industry for quality products and attentive customer service.
We are here for business and for the future
Leading accountancy practice Shaw Gibbs has completed the rebrand of Northampton-based DNG Dove Naish after the two firms joined forces last year. Now partners and staff are looking forward to a brand new era for them and the firm’s clients.
“This rebranding is more than a name change. It represents the transformation of our organisation.”
The words of Shaw Gibbs partner Robyn Liddell at a celebration of the rebrand completion for Northampton accountancy firm DNG Dove Naish and its merger into one of the UK’s top 50 accountancy and business advisory practices.
The firm, which has been based in the town since the 1960s, is now part of the fast-expanding Shaw Gibbs Group. The deal was signed and sealed in October last year and the two businesses have spent the intervening months
integrating their systems, staff and client-base as they prepare for a bright future together.
“The big thing about it is the growth - we are all very excited about it,” said Robyn. “Every single person wants to be part of a successful accountancy firm. We have gone from DNG, a small accounting firm with 30 or so people, to now being part of a top 50 firm with 370 people and by the end of the year that is likely to be 500 people or more.
“Being part of that is really exciting and building those relationships across different businesses is a real positive for
everybody. Now we have the support of like-minded people to work with and bounce ideas off, we can spend more time with our clients.”
The merger is the result of a decision by then DNG partner Robyn and fellow partners Andrew Clifford and Ian Robson at a pivotal point in the Northampton firm’s history. It had been working with predominantly owner-managed businesses in Northampton and the surrounding area for almost six decades.
“We were growing year on year, our clients were happy and the word of mouth from those clients was excellent
Seated: (from left) Shaw Gibbs partners Andrew Clifford, Robyn Liddell and Ian Robson. Standing: Ian Lowry (left) and Phil Beverly
Meet some of the Shaw Gibbs team in Northampton
so we did not need to market ourselves,” Robyn said. “But we were growing to the point where we needed backoffice help, a higher level of HR and marketing support as well as clear career progression for our people.
“With the industry moving as it was, we were either going to need to acquire businesses ourselves or look to join forces with an organisation that we felt had the same ethos as us and would support us in growing the business in Northampton.”
The partners put out feelers to test the market. A practice was quick to make an offer which the DNG partners rejected. “We felt their approach was too corporate. It was not the right fit with our culture and values.”
Then, out of the blue, Shaw Gibbs contacted them, an expanding practice headquartered in Oxford and with offices across southern England.
“We know that, with the growth that Shaw Gibbs can give us, we can provide an even better service to our clients and still with the right feel.”
After researching the company, Robyn, Andrew and Ian arranged a preliminary meeting with chief executive Peter O’Connell. “We were blown away by his presentation and with his vision.”
With the backing of Apiary Capital LLP, Shaw Gibbs had decided to go on the acquisition path. Their strategy was to join forces with firms within a couple of hours of the head office.
“We thought that made sense – our people can travel and work with other offices,” said Robyn. “Shaw Gibbs wanted the same people-focused culture as we did. We liked their values - they fitted exactly with our own. We were both going in the same direction: to grow, acquire more expertise, be more collaborative and to put the emphasis on learning, development and our staff while becoming something bigger.”
Then followed a meeting with the Shaw Gibbs senior management team before
the DNG partners accepted an offer of a merger between the two practices.
“It has been a rollercoaster. But the staff have been amazing and the clients even more so. Nothing has really changed from their point of view. We are still providing the same service with the same people but now we can offer a wider range of services with more specialist advice.
“Being a small firm, if we had a complex VAT query, for example, we may have to ship it out to another firm whereas now we have all the expertise we need inhouse. And we already had a fantastic tax advisory team but now we have the backing to grow that advisory expertise in the county.”
Integration of staff and systems has been a challenge overcome with the help of Shaw Gibbs’ integration team. Now the rebrand is complete, with DNG Dove Naish absorbed into the Shaw Gibbs organisation - a milestone celebrated at Northampton Museum & Art Gallery last month at a drinks reception attended by business contacts, clients, suppliers and dignitaries including Northampton’s Mayor Cllr Paul Joyce.
The rebrand was always about much more than new colours and a corporate identity. “It is the opportunity to show that we are here for business and for the future,” said Robyn.
“We are looking to take on four trainees this year – in the past it would only be one and we are attracting better candidates
because we are in the top 50 firms now. The industry is changing fast and we can now offer so much more to our existing and future staff – it has been the most exciting part of the merger.”
Shaw Gibbs has invested significantly in its learning and development offering with flagship development programmes The Management Development Programme and The Aspiring Manager Programme, to encourage its staff to develop their careers with Shaw Gibbs as a top 50 accountancy firm - with opportunities across its offices.
“That has been a huge positive,” said Robyn.
Shaw Gibbs remains in Northampton at the DNG office on Billing Road. The immediate plans are to showcase and develop the office’s expertise in tax advisory and outsourced finance department specialisms as well growing its compliance services such as payroll, audit and accounts for both businesses and charities.
“DNG was always known for quality service but we know that, with the growth that Shaw Gibbs can give us, we can provide an even better service to our clients and still with the right feel,” said Robyn.
“We look forward to continuing and growing our brand in Northamptonshire, working with the local business community and helping businesses within the town and county through the ever-changing financial landscape.”
Robyn Liddell
UK investors welcome a new age of opportunity
Georgina
Stone,
deputy
chief
investment
officer
at OCM Wealth Management in Northampton, assesses the implications for investors of the Labour Party’s landslide majority at the General Election.
Following years of political turmoil in the UK, investors welcomed a greater sense of clarity this month as 28.7 million people cast their votes in the UK’s latest general election. In line with forecasts, the Labour Party achieved a landslide victory, regaining power after 14 years and completely reshaping the UK’s political landscape as a result.
With 412 of the 650 seats in the House of Commons, the party now has the largest majority since 1997, providing a clear mandate for Keir Starmer to govern. After a sustained period of low growth and uncertainty weighing on the UK outlook, it is our view that a greater sense of political stability has the potential to revitalise the UK economy and bring new investment into the UK, creating a wave of opportunities for UK investors.
Throughout the election campaign, Labour’s policies have centred around a desire to provide economic stability, leadership on the climate, NHS restructuring and social reforms. So far the main priority for Labour’s Chancellor Rachel Reeves is to enhance GDP growth, with the government announcing an ambitious target of 2.5% in annual GDP growth which is a significant step up from the lacklustre GDP growth of recent years, with a growth figure of only 0.1% recorded for the UK in 2023.
Labour plans to achieve this growth through investment and fiscally responsible spending, prioritising spending over tax cuts.
According to the new Chancellor, a key component in this bid to boost UK growth will be the implementation of a National Wealth Fund which will see £7.3 billion spent by the government towards clean energy projects and infrastructure development.
The funds will be allocated towards upgrading ports, gigafactories, rebuilding the UK’s steel industry and various green energy implementations.
This project aims to act as a middleman between investors and the government, with a predicted £1 invested by the government for every £3 by investors. The goal is to generate growth throughout key areas of British manufacturing and green technology, driving private investment throughout the UK economy.
The new government appears to be focused on making the UK more attractive for businesses and investors by creating a more favourable backdrop for UK assets and investors moving forward.
Another key element in the government’s plans to grow the economy is aggressive housebuilding targets, with a goal to build 1.5 million homes in the next five years. Historically, the UK has built an average of 250,000 homes a year, with actual figures just under 235,000 in the last two years. Labour aims to achieve a target of 300,000 per year through reforms of planning policy alongside the reintroduction of compulsory housebuilding targets.
The aim of the policy is to increase housing supply and make housing more affordable on a wider scale, getting more people on the housing ladder and creating sustained economic growth.
Alongside these commitments, the government also announced plans to create Great British Energy, a publicly owned clean energy company focused on securing UK energy resilience. The company will focus on green energy and the renewables sector with the hope of lowering energy bills throughout the UK, aiming to protect UK households
“The UK appears to be turning a corner, which should support the government in its plans and provide some much-needed investment into UK assets.”
from price shocks such as those seen at the start of the war in Ukraine which contributed to a cost of living crisis.
With public finances remaining stretched, the government is planning to abide by its own strict set of fiscal policies to maintain a balanced budget which meets its day-to-day costs effectively while also reducing the deficit by the fifth year of government.
Fiscal responsibility will be crucial for the government to implement its economic and social polices throughout the term without experiencing budget constraints. The Office for Budget Responsibility currently predicts the government is set to face a miniscule fiscal margin of £9 billion.
This means it is unlikely that we will see any large-scale government spending, with potential for tax rises and public sector cuts to come unless the government is able to generate greater growth than currently forecast.
With greater clarity on the political landscape in the UK alongside an improving growth outlook, the future is
Georgina Stone
Sir Keir Starmer
beginning to brighten for UK investors, with opportunities to create long-term gains from UK-based investments.
After a period of low growth and muted returns for UK assets, it is our view that the UK equity market is now particularly well positioned and attractively valued compared to peers, with an opportunity to benefit as the UK economy recovers and interest rates decline.
While inflation will undoubtedly remain a key focus for policymakers in the coming months, data suggests that the economy has turned a corner on inflation, with the headline rate falling back down to 2% in June, putting pressure on the Bank of England to consider cutting interest rates in the short term and provide muchneeded stimulus to the UK economy.
As a result, UK equities and fixed income assets are expected to benefit as market conditions improve, with domestically focused and cyclical stocks expected to benefit the most in the short term.
Overall, it is clear that the new government has a lot of work to do to achieve its policy pledges and promote growth within the UK economy, therefore the coming months remain crucial for the government to lay out plans to deliver on its promises.
Economically, the UK appears to be turning a corner, which should support the government in its plans and provide some much-needed investment into UK assets. For UK investors, the outlook looks bright.
Government confirms VAT on private school fees
The Labour administration now needs to implement one of its key tax plans: to impose VAT on private school fees. This article provides an update on the government’s plans immediately following the General Election and ahead of the next Budget Statement, which is likely to take place in September.
The government has made it clear that VAT will be imposed on private school fees. We understand that the change will be made as soon as Parliamentary time allows and will apply to full-time education provided to children of compulsory school age, in line with the Department of Education’s definition of regulated independent schools.
An announcement to introduce VAT on private school fees came in The King’s Speech at the State Opening of Parliament on July 17. The standard 20% rate will be added to fees from the start of the 2025 school year.
The plan is anticipated to raise around £1.7 billion annually and the money will be used to recruit 6,500 new teachers and fund more than 3,000 nurseries.
The next date to have in mind is the first Budget. This is unlikely to be before September 13, according to the Institute for Government as the Labour Party has committed to including a forecast from the Office for Budget Responsibility, which requires ten weeks’ notice.
The Labour administration has previously made it clear that VAT will be imposed on boarding fees and it would be reasonable to conclude that VAT will also be imposed on other services which HM Revenue & Customs already consider are closely related to the provision of education.
This would include:
n Catering
n Transport
n School trips
n Field trips
“There are layers of detail which we assume will be clearer once HM Treasury and HMRC publish draft legislation and accompanying guidance.”
An Educational, Health and Care Plan is for children and young people aged up to 25 who need more support than is available through special educational needs support. EHCPs identify educational, health and social needs and set out the additional support to meet those needs.
Labour has previously confirmed that the changes to the VAT treatment of private school fees will not apply to children and young people with an EHCP. Fees paid for educating pupils with an EHCP will therefore remain exempt from VAT.
We assume this will only apply to the extent to which the school receives payment from a local authority.
HM Treasury will need to redefine the extent to which education will remain exempt from VAT. As a minimum, it will need to remove the entitlement to VAT exemption from a defined group of independent schools.
Although at face value it appears straightforward to identify fee-paying independent schools and require them to pay VAT on their school fees, there are layers of detail which we assume will be clearer once HM Treasury and HMRC publish draft legislation and accompanying guidance.
This will hopefully include:
n Whether private school fees for a child with an EHCP remain VAT-exempt;
n Whether VAT will be imposed on fees paid to specialist schools which support pupils with special educational needs but who may not have an EHCP;
n If the school receives top up payments from a local authority, whether fees will only be partially liable to VAT;
n Whether VAT will be imposed on fees for independent schools funded by the public sector;
n How to treat fees paid for a child or young adult who is not of compulsory school age;
n As the definition of compulsory school age differs in the devolved nations, will it be cheaper to send my child to school in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland?
We will provide more clarity as more detail is made available.
JONATHAN MAIN VAT & indirect tax partner, MHA mha.co.uk
Spending plans make tax rises by the new government more likely
Plan now for increases in capital gains and wealth taxes, warns James Kipping, tax partner at MHA.
The Labour Party manifesto says this.
“The Conservatives have raised the tax burden to a 70-year high. We will ensure taxes on working people are kept as low as possible. Labour will not increase taxes on working people, which is why we will not increase National Insurance, the basic, higher, or additional rates of income tax or VAT.”
There is little discussion of tax reform in the Labour manifesto. The only item which might be regarded as reform is stability in the rate of corporate tax when arguably what is needed is a reduction to boost confidence and investment in the UK. However, the manifesto promises do not mean that personal taxes will not be raised. Quite the contrary. The Institute for Fiscal Studies told us a few weeks ago that, irrespective of who won the election, the incoming government would have two choices if it wanted to manage public debt: cut spending or raise taxes.
Surely Labour’s spending plans mean it will opt for raising taxes.
The manifesto announced tax plans to raise around £8.5 billion in taxes, mainly through increased tax compliance and closure of so-called non-dom loopholes. But that pales into insignificance compared with the almost £1 trillion collected by HM Revenue & Customs each year. Therefore, tax rises will surely be more substantial over the course of the parliament.
One expects that wealth taxes will be firmly in their sights, and I would include possible reform of CGT and Inheritance Tax in that discussion.
The manifesto is silent on capital gains tax and we should expect an increase to the headline rates of 20% (28% for residential property) perhaps to align them with income tax rates.
People should be planning for this now, in my opinion.
It is time for reform of
The regime is uncompetitive and needs urgent attention, argues MHA tax director Will Johnstone.
inheritance tax
While Rachel Reeves will clearly have many new priorities as the new Chancellor of the Exchequer, we urge her to look at inheritance tax reform and proposals on non-doms.
The UK’s IHT regime is globally uncompetitive. The rate is high and the threshold is low at 40% and £325,000 respectively. Many jurisdictions around the world do not charge any inheritance tax at all.
It arguably did not matter when the primary connecting factor was domicile because the domicile of origin has an adhesive quality: it is very difficult to change.
And so inheritance tax had limited
impact on people’s decisions to become or cease to be UK resident for income tax and capital gains tax purposes. Residence is much easier to change than domicile and the subset of taxpayers targeted by Labour’s proposed changes are likely to be those for whom it is easiest to move elsewhere or at least to arrange their affairs so they are non-UK resident for income tax and CGT purposes, thereby depriving the Treasury of revenue.
Since the former Chancellor George Osborne’s non-dom reforms in 2017, many ultra high net worth non-doms have significantly increased their contribution to the UK exchequer through income tax and CGT. The proposed measures on excluded property trusts will be a significant push factor that risks overcoming the life inertia that kept many non-doms in the more expensive post-2017 UK.
Much has been said about the desire to close so-called non-dom loopholes and Labour will continue with the Foreign Income & Gains regime from 2025/26 but they are likely to remove the transitional measure of the 50% reduction in tax on foreign income in 2025/26.
Will this also extend to removing the reduced 12% rate on bringing previously unremitted offshore income and gains to the UK in 2025/26 and 2026/27?
Probably not, in my view, as this could raise significant additional revenue unless the package of measures causes - as is widely anticipate - an exodus of nondoms from the UK.
The likely wider imposition of inheritance tax on UK-resident non-doms may cause a costly exodus from the UKup to 30%, recent reports have said. It will also most likely discourage others from coming to the UK.
Our inheritance tax regime is uncompetitive and the measures will seek to impose the tax on assets and wealth outside the UK. Labour has said:
“We will end the use of offshore trusts to avoid inheritance tax so that everyone who makes their home here in the UK pays their taxes here.“. How they will do that remains to be seen but the question the government should be asking is whether scrapping the current favourable inheritance tax treatment results in more or less tax being paid.
The pragmatic approach - one likely to raise or protect tax revenues - would be to impose the Foreign Income & Gains rules for income tax and capital gains tax and retain the special inheritance tax regime for non-doms in respect of their non-UK assets. Otherwise, we will encourage those who bring wealth, investment and a lack of reliance on
James Kipping
“Pensions could be in Labour’s sights and there are several possible avenues of attack.”
the state to leave, which will surely be to everyone’s detriment.
One way of potentially reducing the non-dom exodus could be to reform inheritance tax such that the base is widened by the restriction of reliefs but the rate is reduced. If the rate was lower than 40% it may be more palatable,
Sale clears path for monitoring firm’s growth
reduce the desire or need for planning and be more internationally competitive.
Labour could remove the exemption from CGT on death which means that an estate beneficiary does not have to pay tax on gains that accrued before they inherited the asset. The Office for Tax Simplification has previously recommended the abolition of the capital gains uplift on death either in respect of assets which qualified for relief from IHT or more widely on all the assets of the estate. Both approaches would create significant administrative challenges, not least for the beneficiary in determining
Corporate finance specialists in Northampton have completed a deal that continues the expansion of one of the world’s largest power management companies.
Partner Wendy Lam and colleagues at Watersheds in Northampton have finalised the acquisition of Exertherm, a specialist in continuous thermal monitoring technology, by intelligent power management company Eaton.
The deal also enables Exertherm founder Ross Kennedy, who set up the business in !987, to retire.
With the rise of digitisation, Exertherm’s technology has harnessed the potential of the Industrial Internet of Things but, when it came to planning his exit strategy, he wanted a buyer that valued the ethos developed over the past 36 years and would continue the company’s success.
“The time was right to exit the company but I also wanted to ensure I was handing it over to new owners who would be able to bring the business to its full potential as well as securing the future of our current staff,” Ross said.
“The advice and support I received from
the CGT base cost of an asset they did not personally acquire and which may have been acquired many years or generations before.
The latter would create a genuine double taxation on the disposal of assets by estate beneficiaries.
Pensions could be in Labour’s sights and there are several possible avenues of attack:
n The government could introduce a flat rate of tax relief on pension contributions, thereby ending the advantage that higher (40%) and additional rate (45%) taxpayers enjoy compared to 20% for basic rate taxpayers.
n Despite the uproar when the Lifetime Allowance for pensions was abolished by the Conservatives last year, Labour has confirmed it will drop plans to reintroduce the LTA.
Perhaps more significant reform is in the pipeline. Could measures be introduced to impose IHT on uncrystallised pension funds? Could uncrystallised pension funds of a certain size be liable to income tax and CGT on investment income and gains? Both measures would discourage the warehousing of wealth in pensions funds which currently enjoy a tax exemption on income and gains and are outside of one’s estate for IHT.
We could see a reduction in the contribution limit for ISAs - currently £20,000. But they will overstep the mark if they consider unravelling these tax wrappers completely.
Watersheds was invaluable and they achieved top value, as well as ensuring a smooth process of selling the business to a global business and the complexities that come with selling internationally.”
New owner Eaton manufactures products for the data centre, utility, industrial, commercial, machine building, residential, aerospace and mobility markets. Exertherm, based in Harpenden near Luton, is a tight-knit community with a family feel, For shareholders it was important the buyer had the right cultural fit to continue into the future, said Wendy.
“Watersheds has worked with Exertherm for a number of years and their technical expertise combined with their foresight of the industry has enabled them to grow to hold a strong position in this interesting and fast-growing market. Eaton is exactly the kind of organisation they wanted to see their business in the hands of and therefore, we are happy we could help fulfil their wishes with a deal that was too good to refuse.”
The deal was also supported by Laytons ETL for legal advice and Claritas for UK tax advice.
Wendy Lam of Watersheds with Exertherm founder Ross Kennedy
Vetting your accountant: The importance cannot be overstated
Checking the credentials is as vital as any major recruitment decision, says financial consultant Adrian Goodman.
For small and medium-sized enterprises, the role of an accountant can be crucial. A good accountant does more than merely balance the books; they can provide insights that drive business growth, ensure compliance with regulations and help manage risks.
However, not all accountants are created equal.
Accountants come with varying levels of experience. Some might be newly qualified or not yet qualified while others have decades of industry-specific experience.
An accountant with extensive experience in your particular sector can understand the unique challenges your business faces. Conversely, a less experienced accountant might be more affordable but may not provide the same depth of insight.
Credentials can also be a misleading metric for those who do not understand them. There are various educational routes available to aspiring finance professionals and the array of acronyms used to denote levels of qualification can be daunting to those unfamiliar with them.
Here is a breakdown of just a few of the common qualifications and what they signify.
AATQB (Association of Accounting Technicians Qualified Bookkeeper) Indicates proficiency in bookkeeping but not necessarily experienced in the finer points of accounting and strategy.
ACA/ACCA (Associate Chartered Accountant/Chartered Certified Accountant) These are rigorous qualifications denoting expertise in all aspects of accounting, auditing, taxation and financial management.
CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants) Focuses on management accounting, making these accountants ideal for businesses needing detailed financial planning and analysis.
FCMA (Fellow Chartered Management Accountant) A senior-level qualification within CIMA, indicating extensive experience and expertise in management accounting.
It is not just a case of finding a qualified accountant either. You need to think about the type of accountant your business needs.
Just as solicitors tend to gravitate towards certain areas of law, accountants often specialise in different areas and some savvy businesses will even change accountants according to the evolving goals of the business.
At PPX Consulting, we recommend approaching the appointment of an
“A good accountant may be with you for many years and become an integral part of your business.”
external accountant in the same way as you would manage the recruitment of an internal employee. After all, a good accountant may be with you for many years and become an integral part of your business.
I suggest the following steps to ensure you make the right choice.
Interview multiple potential accountants
Ask about their experience, qualifications and areas of expertise. Give examples of challenges your business is likely to face and see how they would manage them.
Ask for references Just as you would check references for a new hire, ask for references from existing clients. Most accountants will be happy to offer this.
Seek a second opinion If possible, draft in another finance professional to give their opinion on your shortlist of candidates.
Do not be driven by price Too many business owners view their accountant in the same way as many of us view car insurance, focusing on the premium rather than the cover. A good accountant could end up saving you money as opposed to being a net cost so focus on value rather than price.
The importance of vetting an accountant cannot be overstated. The right accountant can be a strategic partner, providing optimal support and driving your business forward. Treat this process with the same care and consideration as any key recruitment decision, and your business will be wellpositioned for success.
Adrian Goodman
Adrian Goodman is managing director of PPX Consulting and author of Achieving Profitable Growth.
ppxconsulting.co.uk
adrian.goodman@ppxconsulting.co.uk 01536 856 740
Tax returns: The sooner you submit, the better
It can be a misconception that you have to wait until January to file your tax return, writes Laura Hicks, a tax adviser at Moore UK. A Self-Assessment tax return can be submitted from the day after the tax year ends (tax year 2023/24 ended 5 April 2024), and there are numerous benefits to submitting your tax return early.
You will know what you owe Filing your tax return early doesn’t mean you have to pay your tax bill immediately. The balancing payment for 2023/24 is due 31 January 2025. This is regardless of when your tax return is submitted. If you can’t pay your Self-Assessment tax on time, submitting your return early means you have more time to obtain assistance from HMRC and negotiate longer-term time to pay arrangements.
Manage your cashflow
Early submission gives you the chance to pay your tax bill in instalments. This could help you with cashflow throughout the year. For example, your 31 January
Tony Byrne
Beware rising taxes and more red tape. Tony Byrne, of Wealth & Tax Management, gives his post-election advice.
For advice on how to manage your business under a Labour government, take advantage of a one-hour Discovery Meeting either at our offices or via a video conference call at our expense worth £270 to each of the first three readers who contact us before 31
Laura Hicks
2025 payment is £7,000. If you submit your tax return in July 2024, you can pay £1,000 each month until 31 January 2025. As long as the balance has been paid by 31 January 2025, there will be no late payment interest whereas if you submit your tax return in January 2025, you would need to make a £7,000 payment before the end of that month.
Find out sooner if you are due a refund You know sooner if you are due a refund from HMRC and thus receive it sooner.
Reduce stress
Avoiding the last-minute rush is a significant benefit of filing early. The closer you get to the deadline, the busier and more stressful the process can become..
Proof of income
Filing early means you can have proof of your income readily accessible. You may need this for a mortgage, remortgage, loan, and benefit claims.
If you use a tax agent to file your tax return, early filing means your tax advisers can review your tax position and advise appropriately. Sound advice is based upon sound data; the sooner you can provide that data, the better.
n For further advice or support filing your tax return, contact Moore Chartered Accountants on 01536 461900 or email east.midlands@mooreuk.global
How to manage your business under a Labour government
As expected, Labour won the General Election by a landslide. Of course, none of us can be 100% certain how Labour will govern but I am pretty sure how it will turn out.
Taxes will rise a lot, bureaucracy will increase and Parliament’s powers will be reduced with a focus on devolving government to the regions of the UK.
The key question is how to manage your business under a Labour government. Here is my take on this.
You need to minimise your taxes as much as possible. So maximising your investment in tax-efficient vehicles such as pensions is an absolute must.
Labour has already announced they
August 2024. You know it makes sense. We offer a great cup of coffee too. Ring us on 01908 523740 or for free on 0800 980 4516 or email wealth@ wealthandtax.co.uk and quote AUGUST 2024 OFFER to book your free discovery meeting.
will increase the minimum wage even though it rose by 10% in April! So the cost of employing people is likely to continue rising inexorably.
This means you need to focus on employing low-cost virtual assistants from countries such as the Philippines as well as using Artificial Intelligence as much as possible in your business. This will reduce your staff costs significantly.
If you have an office and a lot of your employees work from home, consider closing the office altogether or getting a cheaper alternative such as a smaller serviced office or even just an accommodation address with mail forwarding.
If you decide to keep your office then reduce the office running costs such as installing solar panels and a solar battery. Shop around as much as possible to reduce your overheads.
Focus on online marketing, especially social media, and master your CRM system if you haven’t already. This will reduce your marketing costs significantly.
www.wealthandtax.co.uk
Lionel Naidoo, MD of Dragon Information Systems, urges businesses still using landlines to act early and be ready for...
The Big Landline Switch-off
BT is gearing up to pull the plug on analogue phone lines as part of something it has dubbed the ‘Big Switch Off’. In its place, there will instead be a fully digital network that supports communications systems that run via broadband.
While many companies have already made the move to digital telephony or are in the process of doing so, as recently as 2021 it was found that up to 70% of firms were still using analogue phone lines.
Lionel Naidoo
Perhaps more alarming, though, is the stat that almost 45% of businesses remain unaware that BT’s Big Switch Off deadline is approaching...
Business IT infrastructure has been steadily evolving and there are many reliable, secure and well-established cloud-based phone systems to choose from. At their core is Voice over Internet Protocol technology - or VoIP.
It works by enabling the transmission of voice and multimedia over the internet. Instead of relying on dedicated phone lines, VoIP converts audio signals into data packets, which are then transmitted across the internet to their intended target where they are converted back into audio signals.
Prepare your organisation’s IT environment for AI
And it is not only landlines that will be affected. The switch-off will impact other non-voice services too, including those connected to ISDN lines - CCTV systems, alarms, faxes, EPOS machines and door entry systems, for example.
For those businesses that are still reliant on analogue phone lines, the move to digital will be a big change but it is also an opportunity and will come with many benefits. My advice is to take action early as the nearer we get to the cut-off date, the more competition there will be for support in making the change.
The last thing any business wants is to be faced with potential service downtime and disruption.
VoIP covers a host of communication forms, including video calls and the sharing of multimedia. This versatility has seen it rise in popularity in recent years.
THE KEY BENEFITS OF VoIP FOR BUSINESSES
Cost savings - The biggest benefit for most business in adopting VoIP technology is the potential cost savings. Traditional phone systems typically involve expensive hardware, long-distance call charges and maintenance expenses. In contrast, with VoIP many of these costs are made redundant.
Supports remote working - VoIP systems are highly flexible. With VoIP, employees make and receive calls from virtually anywhere with an internet connection - perfect for remote working practices and business travel.
Scalable - VoIP systems are super easy to scale and flex with a changing workforce. It is simple to adapt the technology to fit your changing needs.
Advanced functionality - VoIP systems are equipped with an extensive range of advanced features that can support productivity, help streamline business operations and enhance customer service processes.
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Dragon Information Systems works with organisations to ready their environments for AI adoption. Assess your company’s AI readiness and configure data privacy and governance policies in your Microsoft 365 tenant to optimise your security posture as you undergo this journey.
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Easily integrated - VoIP systems can be seamlessly integrated with other business tools and software, including customer relationship management systems, emails and collaboration tools.
Better for the environment - By reducing your business’ dependence on physical phone lines and hardware, you improve your carbon footprint, better supporting sustainability goals.
Here at Dragon IS, we support businesses to gain the most from their technology, with IT systems designed to meet each company’s individual needs and ambitions. We are highly experienced, with a strong track recoding in helping businesses go digital – including to make the move to VoIP and cloud-based telephony.
For an informal chat about your IT infrastructure, or to arrange a free demo of VoIP, please drop an email to lionel@dragon-is.com or call us on 0330 363 005.
VoIP - Voice over Internet Protocol
Geoffrey Leaver Solicitors has unveiled a set of promotions and recruitments to its company commercial, private client and personal injury departments.
Partner heads promotions at city law firm
Company commercial solicitor Danielle Austin has been promoted to partner, having joined the Milton Keynes firm in 2016 as a paralegal and qualifying as a solicitor three years later. Klaudia Karas becomes a conveyancing executive in
the private client services team while long-time legal secretary Sue Barden is promoted to legal assistant in the personal injury team.
Recently qualified solicitor Sara Shimi has joined the firm’s dispute resolution and litigation team to focus on contractual and property claims, landlord and tenant disputes and domestic building disputes.
Negotiating funding for your MBO
Buying into and taking the helm of a business you know well can be an exciting prospect. A management buy-out offers the experienced management team a chance to take a business forward in new ways.
“It is worth getting a corporate solicitor on board as soon as you sniff the opportunity for a management buy-out,” said Tom Bodkin, a solicitor with Borneo Martell Turner Coulston. “There will be many things to consider when selecting your funding arrangements, and it is important to be in the strongest position before you start negotiations.”
Tom has highlighted a few of the key issues which you may need to address.
Debt to equity ratio
With a MBO you should keep a close eye on the debt-to-equity ratio, as you should with any business acquisition. It is important that it is well-balanced and kept in check.
For example, if the company you hope to buy into already relies on high levels of debt to fund its trading activities via existing loans, a business overdraft, or supplier credit terms then it may not be a good idea to load it with more debt after completing the acquisition.
Cash flow
With cash flow always being king, whatever you can do to protect and preserve it will stand your business in
good stead. As such, it is advisable to do cash projections for each funding option and work out which route is likely to give your business the best chance of a positive trading cash flow.
The business may suffer from a poor credit profile or other financial concerns. By working in tandem with your appointed accountants, our legal team will be able to highlight and recommend potential strategies to ease cash flow concerns.
Tom Bodkin
“It is important to be in the strongest position before you start negotiations.”
Legacy disputes
When planning your MBO and assessing your funding options, it is important to understand the position of the business in relation to legacy disputes.
These disputes may range from an upcoming employment tribunal to more complex litigation including contractual breaches, indemnity call-ins, debt claims or an allegation of intellectual property infringement. It is vital that you have early notice of any such current or impending actions, potential insurance coverage (if any) and the benefit of best versus worst case scenario forecasts.
n If you are looking for legal advice regarding a potential MBO, contact Tom Bodkin in the corporate and commercial team at Borneo Martell Turner Coulston on 01604 622101 or email tom.bodkin@ bmtclaw.co.uk
This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Please note that the law may have changed since this article was published.
(from left) Sara Shimi, Klaudia Karas, Danielle Austin and Sue Barden
Published in association with
Committed to talent development
Celebrating success: Law firm and Midlands powerhouse Wilson Browne Solicitors has announced six promotions celebrating the achievements of its accomplished lawyers.
Three solicitors have been promoted to associates, two to senior associates and Wills and Probate solicitor Kayleigh Brown has been promoted to partner.
Kayleigh joined the firm in 2021 and her dedication to the legal space has not gone unnoticed. She was named Junior Solicitor of the Year in the Leicestershire Law Society Awards and received Highly Commended recognition at the The British Will & Probate Awards in 2022. Her legal excellence and commitment to clients makes her a huge asset to the firm.
New senior associate Jess Leech is a rising star in family law. Known for her expertise, Jess has been recognised both nationally and regionally for her outstanding contributions. In the 2024 edition of the Legal 500 Jess was described as “up there with the very best junior solicitors”.
Nadia Halliday has also been promoted to senior associate. Nadia is an experienced civil, commercial and contested probate solicitor who has built a niche practice area in this field. Her expertise extends to advising clients in non-technical language, both in challenging claims where a will is being contested and in claims for family and dependents seeking financial provision.
Three other members of the firm are now associates. Rachel Hayes joined the firm in 2005 and has progressed to become a valued and integral part of the Court of Protection Team, assisting those who do not have ‘capacity’. She helps clients to navigate the lengthy and complicated process of Court of Protection matters, including making applications to the Court of Protection and the Office of the Public Guardian.
Bethany Kay who joined the firm in 2015 as a new enquiries assistant, progressed into the wills and probate department, undertaking the CILEx Route to qualification.
Bethany has considerable experience in dealing with enquiries relating to a diverse range of legal needs including wills, probate, trusts, inheritance tax and lasting powers of attorney.
Ellie Tait completed her training contract with the firm in May 2022, choosing to concentrate on the commercial property division. Her expertise now spans a wide range of legal matters, from land acquisitions and developments to business leases, sales purchases, lease renewals and extensions.
Kevin Rogers, chair of Wilson Browne Solicitors, said: “These promotions reflect our commitment to talent development and client satisfaction. Those promoted this year exemplify the excellence of the whole team at Wilson Browne Solicitors. Their hard work and dedication contribute to our continued success.”
US retailer in the driving seat after completing dealership buys
Specialist lawyers in Howes Percival’s automotive sector team have acted for Fortune 300 US-based automotive retailer Group 1 Automotive UK Limited on its acquisition of four Mercedes-Benz dealerships in Hertfordshire.
The deal with L&L Automotive follows a series of transactions from the automotive team, including acting
for dealership groups Steven Eagell, Listers and FRF on their purchase of Motorline Limited’s entire network of 19 Toyota and Lexus dealerships last year.
Corporate partner Tom Redman (inset), who led the Howes Percival team on the deal, said: “We are absolutely
delighted to have acted for Group 1 Automotive on this acquisition. We were glad to be able to offer the depth of resource and specialist automotive-retail knowledge necessary to deliver a multisite transaction as we continue to support Group 1 with the expansion of its UK operations.”
(clockwise from above left)
Kayleigh Brown; Jess Leech; Nadia Halliday; Rachel Hayes; Bethany Kay; Ellie Tait
Ensuring compliance and peace of mind
Introducing our new Employment Health Check service
by THUBARAGA SHAN
In the dynamic landscape of employment law, staying compliant with the latest regulations is crucial for every business. Franklins Solicitors is proud to announce the launch of our new Employment Health Check service.
This comprehensive review of your employment contracts ensures that your business remains compliant with current legislation protecting both your interests and those of your employees.
Understanding Section 1: A day one right
Under UK employment law, Section 1 of the Employment Rights Act 1996 mandates that employees receive a written statement of particulars on their first day of employment. This statement must include critical information such as job title, job description, remuneration details, working hours and other essential terms of employment.
Ensuring that your contracts meet these requirements from day one not only complies with the law but also fosters transparency and trust with your employees.
The importance of regular contract reviews
Employment contracts should not be static documents. In other words, regular reviews are essential to keep pace with evolving legislation and changing business needs.
For instance, recent updates to legislation or significant case law decisions may necessitate amendments
“Our goal is to help you to create a compliant, fair and productive work environment.”
to your existing contracts. Additionally, business needs such as the inclusion of restrictive covenants - such as noncompete and non-solicitation clauses - should be reassessed periodically to ensure they are enforceable and align with your strategic objectives.
Our Employment Health Check
Our Employment Health Check is designed to provide a thorough evaluation of your current employment contracts.
Our Initial Review includes:
n Detailed Examination We review every aspect of your employment contract to identify potential risks, ambiguities, and unfavourable terms.
n Legal Compliance Check We ensure that your employment contract adheres to the relevant laws and regulations, safeguarding you from legal pitfalls.
n Risk Assessment Our experts highlight any areas of concern that could pose a risk to your business or personal interests.
n Clear Explanations We will also provide you with a set of recommendations of any further steps you need to take and let you know whether they are mandatory, advisable, or optional.
Our Employment Health Check fees
Our initial contract review service is available at a fixed fee, providing you with transparent and predictable costs. We carry out the Employment Health Check for a fixed fee of £500.00 + VAT. Any subsequent work beyond the initial review will be provided with a detailed fee estimate, ensuring you have a clear understanding of the costs involved before proceeding.
A dedicated team at your service
With a wealth of experience and a proactive approach, we are committed to providing you with the highest level of service and expertise. Our goal is to help you create a compliant, fair and productive work environment.
Thubaraga Shan
Thubaraga Shan is an Employment Solicitor at Franklins Solicitors LLP.
Networking
A group for networkers looking for referrals, introductions, opportunities and sales. Northants and surrounding areas
Every Tuesday at noon.
National networking
Every Wednesday at noon. Contact Gary Thorpe for all events. Email: gary.thorpe@debt-doctors.co.uk. Tel: 07963 766052 or 01536 333425.
AYLESBURY
2nd Tuesday 12 noon-2pm: Online. MILTON KEYNES
2nd Thursday 12 noon-2pm: Online.
BUCKINGHAM
3rd Tuesday 12 noon-2pm: Online. CAPPUCCINO CONNECTIONS
4th Thursday 10am-11.30am: Online.
Contact: Anna Atkins-Carter, regional director North Bucks / West Chilterns. 07540 097776, email anna.atkinscarter@theathenanetwork.com or visit theathenanetwork.com.
BEDFORD
2nd Wednesday 12 noon-2pm: Online. SOUTH BEDFORDSHIRE
4th Tuesday 12 noon-2pm: Online. WOBURN
3rd Thursday 12 noon-2pm: Online. Contact: Kate Cherry, regional director Bedfordshire & St Albans. 07909 675333, email kate.cherry@theathenanetwork.com or visit theathenanetwork.com
CONNECT OVER COFFEE
August 13 9.30am-11.15am: Amazon – LTN5, Boscombe Road, Dunstable Informal networking. Free event for Chamber members; non-members £25 + VAT. Book on to Chamber of Commerce events via events.chamber-business.com.
IGNITE
Tuesday 6.45am: The Turnpike, Harpole, Northampton ACHIEVERS
Wednesday 9.30am: Brewpoint, Cut Throat Lane, Bedford. PIONEER
Wednesday 9.30am-11am: Online. APOLLO
Wednesday 10am: Abbey Hill Golf Centre, Two Mile Ash, Milton Keynes. FUSION
Thursday 6.45am: Abbey Hill Golf Centre, Two Mile Ash, Milton Keynes. BLAZE
Thursday 6.45am:
Mount Pleasant Golf Club, Lower Stondon nr Henlow. PAVILION
Thursday 6.45am-8.30am: The Old Northamptonians RFC, Sir Humphrey Cripps Pavilion, Billing Road, Northampton. PROSPERITY
Thursday 6.45am-8.30am:
The Kettering Golf Club, Headlands, Kettering.
STERLING
Thursday 11.45am-1.30pm:
The Old Northamptonians RFC, Sir Humphrey Cripps Pavilion, Billing Road, Northampton. ENCORE
Friday 6.45am: Holiday Inn London Luton. LIGHTHOUSE
Friday 6.45am-8.30am: Old Northamptonians Association, Billing Road, Northampton. Contact: Duncan Webster. Email: duncan@bnibreakfast.co.uk or call 07977 422220. More information: bni.co.uk
August 6, 20 6.45am-8.45am: The Beefeater, Buckingham Breakfast meeting + speaker. Visitors: £10.
More details: bucks-fizz.biz or contact David Babister 07796 136688.
Regional sponsor:
Business MK and Business Times
Relaxed, informal, conversational B2B networking. All Business Buzz events run 10am-noon. Price: £10 + VAT.
BEDFORD
1st Wednesday: George & Dragon, Mill Street.
BIGGLESWADE
4th Tuesday: Miss Vietnam, Market Square. BRACKLEY
1st Thursday: Paisley Pear, Northampton Road. DAVENTRY
3rd Friday: Arc Cinema, Mulberry Place. DUNSTABLE
4th Friday: Sugar Lounge at The Old Sugar Loaf, High Street North.
LUTON
2nd Tuesday: The Garden Cafe, Stockwood Discovery Centre, London Road.
MILTON KEYNES
3rd Friday: Pop World MK, Lower 12th Street, Central Milton Keynes.
NORTHAMPTON
3rd Wednesday: Barratts Snooker Club & Bar, Kingsthorpe Road.
TOWCESTER
4th Thursday: Towcester Mill Brewery, Chantry Lane.
WELLINGBOROUGH
2nd Tuesday: Castello Lounge, Market Street
All meetings payable in advance on the Business Buzz Booking App app.business-buzz.org/app or at the event.
Business networking and referral group. Price: £6.
MILTON KEYNES
4th Thursday, 7.30am-9.30am: Windmill Hill Golf Centre, Bletchley. Meeting fee: £16 (first meeting free).
NORTHAMPTON BREAKFAST
3rd Wednesday, 7.30-9.30am: The Turnpike, Harpole.
NORTHAMPTON EVENING
4th Tuesday, 6.30-8.30pm: Cheyne Walk Club, Northampton.
WELLINGBOROUGH
2nd Thursday, 7.30-9.30am: The Hind Hotel.
VIRTUAL MEETINGS
Meeting fee: £6 (first meeting free).
WEDNESDAY BREAKFAST
4th Wednesday, 7.30am-9am.
THURSDAY BREAKFAST
3rd Thursday, 7.30am-9am.
Friday Breakfast
2nd Friday, 7.30am-9am. THE ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE
Monday 10am-11am: Online
Time management and productivity. Price: £6 per session or £12 per month. More information: buscomm.co.uk.
August 2, 16, 30 7am:
Windmill Hill Golf Centre, Bletchley
Networking breakfast with speaker. Price: £15 non-members. Contact: businessgrowthclub.co.uk or Mark Orr 07903 655169.
NETWORKING BREAKFAST
3rd Friday, 7am-9am
Astral Park, Leighton Buzzard
Breakfast networking with speaker. Price: £13. Contact: info@buzzardnetworking.co.uk or visit buzzardnetworking.co.uk
VIRTUAL
August 20 10.30am-12 noon
Online IN PARTNERSHIP EVENT with Olney businesses
August 28 5pm-6.30pm
Olney Rugby Club IN PARTNERSHIP EVENT with Buckingham businesses
August 29 5pm-6.30pm
Vinson Building, University of Buckingham
All events free to attend as a non-member on one occasion. Book at the event booking diary web page at collaboratemk.co.uk.
Contact: Tim Lee, email tim@collaboratemk.co.uk or 07786 527845.
Alternate Wednesdays 7.30am-9.30am
The Hind Hotel, Wellingborough Networking group run by its members for its members. Contact: cornerstone-northants.org or email network@cornerstone-northants.org.
August 15 12.30pm-2.30pm
Maaya Restaurant, The Hub, Central Milton Keynes
Sponsor: Pinders. Networking lunch. Price: £35.11. Book at thecurryclubs.co.uk/event/milton-keynescurry-club-24/.
Networking goes back to nature...
From axe throwing to forest bathing, from blacksmithing to ceramic painting… this was networking with a difference as businesspeople switched from the office to the open air.
Stanwick Lakes near Wellingborough was the venue for a mid-summer outdoor
Your Business Networking event. After enjoying morning refreshments, guests took part in their choice of two activities selected from the range on offer. Then came further networking over lunch and a debrief on the day. “The axe throwing was particularly competitive,” said Kerry Lewis-Stevenson, director of Your Business Networking’s parent company Pulse Group Media. “Your
Breaking the mould...
Your Business Networking hosts a corporate event with a difference
Business Networking is always looking to break the mould with the theme of its events, designed to meet the requirements of today’s corporate world.
“We got to try out loads of their amazing corporate activities. Thank you to everyone who came and we hope you enjoyed it as much as us.”
Stanwick Lakes is a social enterprise run by the Rockingham Forest Trust environmental charity. Every pound
it receives in revenue and donations directly supports the cost of running the site, including its conservation work and educational events. Trust director Billie Passchier said: “I am so delighted that we are working with Pulse Group Media to deliver their networking event - a different way to get together, in the great outdoors.
The Stanwick Lakes Visitor Centre is at the heart of the venue’s facilities.
“The Visitor Centre is an ideal venue to host corporate events and functions,” said Kerry. “With a large range of teambuilding activities developed in-house, it is the perfect opportunity to escape the office in a beautiful setting and to support a local charity.”
Wednesdays 6.45am-8.30am: The Hopping Hare, Hopping Hill Gardens, Northampton Breakfast networking + members’ presentation opportunities. Price: £10 visitors. Contact: enigmanetworking.co.uk. Email chair@enigmanetworking.co.uk or call 07889 967779.
LBBC
Wednesdays 7am-8.30am: The Dukes, Leighton Road, Heath and Reach Breakfast networking with speaker + member presentations. Visitors: £10. Contact: leightonbuzzardbiz.co.uk. email LBBC chairman Steve Baker at steve@sbfinancial.co.uk or call 01296 641868.
#LOVEBIZ NETWORKING DERNGATE COMMUNITY
August 7 12 9.30am-11am: Online Summer LoveBizNetworking –nationwide online meeting. Networking community for women in business in Northamptonshire and beyond. Price: £10. Contact: Julie Cameron at juliecameron@lovebiznetworking. co.uk or lovebiznetworking.co.uk.
LUTON COFFEE CLUB
1st Tuesday 8am-10am Mano Coffee, George Street Informal networking. Free event. To find out more, email organiser Stephen Wood at s.w@srwood.co.uk or call 01582 401221.
CHAMBER PORTAL WORKSHOP
August 8 11am-11.30am: Online
August 20 2pm-2.30pm: Online
Learn how to upload news, blogs, events, tips, and job vacancies to the Chamber website. Free event for Chamber members. Non-members welcome. ONLINE NETWORKING
August 14 10am-11am: Online Free event for Chamber members. Non-members welcome. To book on to Chamber events, visit chambermk.co.uk/events.
MEET OF MK
August 29 5pm-7pm: Hotel La Tour, Central Milton Keynes
Sponsored by Facilities Management Solutions. Networking with speakers. Contact: mkfm.com/ events/mkfms-meet-of-mk/
NETWALK
August 21 9.15am-10.45am Grounds Café, Salcey Forest
An informal walk, followed by coffee and a catchup. Dogs are welcome. Organised by Franklins Solicitors. Free event. To book, visit events.bookitbee.com/franklins-solicitors-llp/
Alternate Thursdays 7.15am-9am: Beefeater, Priory Marina, Barkers Lane, Bedford
Breakfast networking with speaker. Contact: nibeds.co.uk
NNBN is a business membership organisation for all of Northamptonshire which aims to help businesses in the county to recover, build and grow for a brighter future.
ONLINE NETWORKING August 2, 4pm-5pm Free event to NNBN members and non-members.
SUMMER SOCIAL August 5, 6.30pm-8.30pm: The Chester House Estate, Irchester Price (including food): £10.
EVENING BUSINESS NETWORKING
August 22 7pm-8.30pm:
Northampton Town Centre Hotel, Silver Street Informal networking. Free event for NNBN members; visitors £10.
For more information and to book, visit nnbn.co.uk/events/
CHAMBER PORTAL WORKSHOP
August 8 11am-11.30am: Online
August 20 2pm-2.30pm: Online
Learn how to upload news, blogs, events, tips, and job vacancies to the Chamber website. Free event for Chamber members. Non-members welcome.
ONLINE NETWORKING
August 14 10am-11am: Online Free event for Chamber members. Non-members welcome.
To book on to Chamber events, visit northants-chamber.co.uk.
Fridays 6.45am-8.45am: The Cock Hotel, Stony Stratford
Networking breakfast, with more than 40 members from a wide range of businesses. Businesses referrals, business support and training.
12 noon-2pm, networking lunch. Bedford & Ampthill
1st Tuesday: The Swan Hotel, The Embankment, Bedford / Online.
Leighton Buzzard
3rd Wednesday: The Dukes, Heath & Reach / Online. Luton
2nd Monday: South Beds Golf Club/ Online. Sandy & Biggleswade
1st Wednesday: Stratton House Hotel, Biggleswade. Contact: Louise Yexley on 07989 020647, email louise.yexley@wibn.co.uk or visit www.wibn.co.uk.
Milton Keynes
1st Tuesday: The Brasserie at Milton Keynes College, Sherwood Drive, Bletchley. Contact: Edith Samambwa on 07802 581838, Email edith.samambwa@wibn.co.uk or visit www.wibn.co.uk.
BUSINESS ROOM
The Business Room is a one business per area group for business owners, those in employed positions, MLMs and franchised businesses.
BEDFORD
3rd Thursday 9.30am-11.30am: The Kingfisher.
KETTERING
2nd Tuesday 12 noon-2pm: Kettering Park Hotel & Spa.
NORTHAMPTON
2nd Thursday 12 noon-2pm: Sun Inn, High Street, Hardingstone. OLNEY
2nd Wednesday 9.30am-11.30am: The Cherry Tree Restaurant & Bar.
SOUTH NORTHANTS
3rd Tuesday 12 noon-2pm: The Fox & Hounds, Whittlebury. WELLINGBOROUGH
3rd Wednesday 12 noon-2pm: The Stanwick Hotel, Stanwick. THE CONNECTIONS CLUB - NORTHANTS For business owners, influencers and decision-makers.
NORTHAMPTON
1st Tuesday 11.45am-2pm: Delapre Abbey, Northampton.
Contact: Barbara Hodgson 07504 946 585 / 01933 652884, email barbara@yourbusinessmatters.co or
with great conversations, meaningful networking, and inspiring updates.
networking, and inspiring
City Breakfast Club Milton Keynes is the longest-running, premier networking event connecting you with the city’s top business leaders. The event takes place on the first Wednesday of each month*.
City Breakfast Club Milton Keynes is the longest-running, premier networking event connecting you with the city’s top business leaders. The event takes place on the first Wednesday of each month*.
book your place, visit citybreakfastclub.co.uk
Crest reflects Saints true identity
Inspired by history, prepared for the future… after months of research, design work and engagement with supporters, Northampton Saints has unveiled the rugby club’s new crest.
It is the result of supporter surveys and engagement over the past year that revealed that the club crest was in need of updating in order to increase recall, showcase the Saints’ core colours of black, green and gold and to enhance brand awareness both online and via social media.
This is the result: a crest that reflects the club’s history back to its foundation in 1880 and which reflects those aspects that supporters consider most important: the history of the Saints - its colours, name and shield.
Saints management set out to evolve and futureproof the crest after surveys found that significant numbers of supporters were open to a change to reflect a modern, ambitious, professional sports organisation. The new crest, created in conjunction with design experts Jard Studio, is to be used from the start of the 2024-25 season. The new design features black, green and gold and acknowledges the Saints’ inception as the Northampton St James Improvement Class in 1880.
Chief executive Mark Darbon said: “Earlier this year we identified that while many of the most popular and successful sports teams and organisations around the world have embraced change to produce clear visual identities, at Saints our own visual identity – in particular, our crest – could be stronger.
“We believe that we must look forward to secure the continued relevance, appeal and sustainability of this brilliant club. So we have evolved our crest to truly
reflect the identity of Northampton Saints.”
Club historian Graham McKechnie, the Heritage team at Northampton Saints Foundation, and Jard Studio researched and were in full support of the project.
“Everyone at the Club is extremely excited about this new crest,” said Mark. “As with anything new, we understand it will take some time to reflect on and get used to but I very much hope that our fans too will support it, given its importance for the future of Northampton Saints.”
Graham added: “This may be a new crest for Saints but it is very clearly something that is rooted within the club’s history. I am not sure what the boys of the Improvement Class, playing on a field in Jimmy’s End, would make of the modern club and the professional game. But I think they would like this - the emblem from their own jerseys 140 years ago returns, tying the visual identity of the club to its unique history more closely than ever before.
“It is a link back to these trailblazers, a nod to this club’s extraordinary past as well as looking ahead to the future.”
The design has also inspired an all-new typography, Saintly, which the Saints will use across all digital and physical assets.
Cobblers welcome back sponsors
Kick-off in the new 2024-25 League One season takes place this month and Northampton Town FC have announced a series of sponsorship deals ahead of the new campaign.
Piroto Labelling have sealed a two-year deal to continue as official ticket partner. Managing director Leigh Mann said: “Our ongoing collaboration is a great way to support our local community while benefiting from social media exposure, hospitality and brand building.”
The Cobblers’ commercial director James Corrigan added: “It is great when a long-term existing business commits to another long deal.”
Away sleeve sponsor Zoo Accounting
& Business Solutions, has extended its partnership to become the club’s official payroll solutions provider. Digital agency Green Ape Media has become a principal partner at Sixfields and sleeve sponsor for the new home and third kit.
Sound, lighting and audiovisual specialist Fabtronic has also agreed to join the Cobblers Commercial Development Programme for the new season. The Northampton business supports the club’s events and will join the new Cobblers Business Club.
James said: “What I witnessed at our player awards was testament to the levels of quality and commitment that they show to their work.”
CEO leaves to take over at R&A
Saints chief executive Mark Darbon is to leave cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens to become chief executive of The R&A. He departs for St Andrews in Scotland in November but will remain on the Saints board as a non-executive director.
“Leaving Northampton Saints has been an incredibly difficult decision for me to make,” Mark said. “Over the last seven years my family and I have loved our time in Northampton, and developed a passion and attachment for Saints which will stay with us forever.”
He joined the Saints in 2017, having worked as a commercial director for Diageo plc before helping to lead the delivery team at the London 2012 Olympics from 2009 and as head of Olympic Park operations during the Games themselves.He held roles at Tough Mudder and Madison Sports Group, delivering mass participation sports events and professional cycling races across the world, before joining the Saints.
“I am very proud of what we have achieved during my tenure,” said Mark (inset). “Rugby has faced some significant challenges but the club is well positioned to continue to be successful into the future on and off the pitch while remaining at the centre of our local community.”
Chairman John White said:
“He has helped us to cultivate an incredibly talented group of players, coaches and support staff and a commercial staff who know our business inside out. I have no doubt they all will continue to drive the club forwards.
“Given Mark’s calibre and his capability as a leader, it was inevitable that one day he would be approached to take on a leading role within one of the most reputable sporting organisations in the world so this move, while disappointing for the club, is not surprising and we have planned for this moment. Leading The R&A is a fantastic opportunity for Mark. I have enjoyed every minute working with him.”
Business of Sport
Lightning strike new season sponsorship deals
Puckiverse, the UK’s newest hockey shop, is to be official title sponsor of ice hockey side MK Lightning for the 202425 season. It is due to open it a new store in Milton Keynes ahead of the season’s start on August 31
MK Lighting has also announced a series of new and renewed sponsorship deals with local businesses. Miniclipper Logistics, based in Leighton Buzzard and Dunstable, and Stony Stratford hair salon Crawford Hair are to continue as a club sponsor.
Acute Ambulance & Medical Services has renewed its agreement as official medical partner, providing ambulance crews at home matches and equipment and advice at away fixtures. AAMS is also running a First Aid course for coaches and staff
Boss Plant Sales is back as a jersey sponsor and Milton Keynes-based law firm Franklins Solicitors has increased its support with its brand on the players’ jerseys, a rink board, and a player sponsor. Franklins associate partner Chris Buck said: “Personally, I cannot wait to see our branding on the team’s jerseys and in the rink. September cannot come too soon.”
Vehicle repair business MKD Automotive is beginning its 16th year as a MK Lightning sponsor, while electronics manufacturer Spicer Consulting remains a platinum sponsor for a second season.
Also renewing platinum sponsorship, for a seventh season, is digital marketing agency 123 Internet. Chief executive Scott Jones said: “This offseason has been incredibly productive, filled with significant changes and exciting developments for both our business and the team.” 123 Internet has been aligning strategy and delivery of enhancements to the MK Lightning brand, creatives and social media assets It has also supported the off-ice business networking. .
MK Lightning director Tom Roberts said: “Their expertise and dedication to our brand have been instrumental in our growth and success. The collaborative efforts have significantly enhanced our digital presence and the MK Lightning brand.”
Holiday Inn Milton Keynes Central has also signed up as an official sponsor. Other sponsors include Tebworth-based Greenwood Drones and Jebs Electrical and Building Services in Leighton Buzzard.
Clubs mull over offer to own their grounds
Villagers in Brixworth are pondering the opportunity to take over the ownership of its cricket and tennis club ground.
A planning application has been submitted for Brixworth Local Services Centre, on the southern edge of the village. It includes a convenience store with pharmacy, spa and wellbeing centre, offices, a meeting hub, restaurant/ takeaway, gym and a drive-thru coffee shop, along with 16 affordable homes.
The Brixworth Cricket and Tennis Club lies to the south of the proposed 2.6-hectare, six-acre development site. And the opportunity for the village to own both Brixworth cricket and tennis clubs would form part of a Section 106 agreement - known as a ‘planning gain’should councillors give the green light to the proposal.
Brixworth Cricket and Tennis Club is currently owned Dr Dallas Burston, a former GP in the village. He personally funded the building of the cricket club and tennis centre in the early 1990s and has since only charged £1 a year in rent and sponsored equipment and functions.
The planning application has been lodged by Dr Burston’s company.
“We are proposing that the freehold of the clubs is transferred to a Brixworth Community Interest Company or similar to take on full management and
“Becoming owners would open up a number of funding opportunities.”
ownership,” said land agent Joseph Soul. “A covenant will be included to prevent future residential or commercial use of the land or buildings. This is a unique and unrivalled opportunity for Brixworth to have full ownership of facilities that would cost around £500,000 to reproduce, and for residents to oversee its preservation and development.”
Brixworth Cricket Club currently runs four senior teams and six junior squads which range in age from five to 16. The tennis club, established in 2013, has three tennis courts and a growing membership.
Both say that ownership would enable them to continue to improve facilities for current and future players.
Cricket club chair Andrew Roper said: “We have been lucky enough to use this facility for 16 years and, through the generosity of Dr Burston and thousands of volunteer hours, we have managed to turn the ground into the envy of most teams in the surrounding counties.
“Becoming owners or co-owners would open up a number of funding opportunities that would allow us to continually improve the ground and continue to provide the best facilities for our current members and the next generation of Brixworth cricketers.”
Tennis club chair Simon Yarwood added: “Our surroundings have been the envy of most tennis players in the region and we are extremely grateful to Dr Burston for creating them.”
A major supermarket chain has already expressed an interest the planned centre, said Northampton property agency
Link-up adds the science to football
Budding sports scientists have been working with the next generation of professional footballers in a partnership between Northampton Town FC and the University of Northampton.
The Cobblers’ first team and under-18 academy players were put through their paces by students during three days of pre-season performance testing at Waterside Campus.
The sessions, which included strength, speed and agility assessments, were led by undergraduates on sports science courses. The data enabled Cobblers staff to focus on the areas individual players need to work on ahead of the new season, which kicks off this month.
The football club’s head of medical services Michael Bolger said: “This is the third year our players have received
pre-season testing by the University of Northampton, which has proven hugely useful for reviewing their strength progress year on year.”
The university and the club have worked together for more than ten years. The Cobblers utilise pre-season testing and training space on the university’s Waterside campus while students gain real-life experience of working in and with a professional football club. Graduate Ash Adebayo is now the first team’s strength and conditioning coach and fellow graduate Ethan Cooper works as assistant first team physiotherapist.
“The university has been working to forge links with local sporting institutions,” said UoN applied sports scientist Luke Callis. “The opportunity increases their employability in the industry.”
Underwoods. The plans include more than 170 car parking spaces, which will help to alleviate the village’s current and future parking pressures, the developers say.
Joseph Soul said: “The growth of the village has been overwhelmingly residential yet this growth in population has not gone hand in hand with the
development of additional facilities to meet the changing needs of the village. We believe the addition of the local services centre is a crucial one.
“It is about providing the right facilities, too - for example, the proposed work and office spaces would satisfy modern, hybrid working practices.”
County cricket is back at school
Nurturing talent and developing the next generation of top English cricketers is the aim of a new partnership between Northamptonshire County Cricket and Bedford School.
Bedford’s brightest sporting prospects will receive highperformance training on their journey to Northamptonshire’s youth and academy teams. Northamptonshire will also provide specialised training sessions, development programmes and first-class cricket facilities and its young players will use the school’s grounds and facilities, indoor and outdoor nets and gym.
“This partnership aligns perfectly with our commitment to holistic education and sporting excellence. Together we will inspire the next generation of cricketers,” said Bedford School headmaster James Hodgson. Links are already strong between the two institutions with current NCCC players Emilio Gay and Gus Miller both Bedford School alumni. In recent years Bedford has become one of the leading cricket schools in the country.
‘Heart and soul of the town’: Why corporates back the Blues
Bedford Blues official insurance partner Bullerwell has agreed to continue as a main sponsor for the new season.
The independent insurance broker has supported the club since 1982 when the relationship was established by former international rugby referee Ian Bullerwell, the company’s founder and a former chairman and life member of the Blues.
The company name first appeared on the men’s jersey in the 2020-21 season and will now spend a fifth season on the back of the first XV’s home and away kit.
“The relationship continues to strengthen each year,” said Bedford Blues chief operating officer Gareth Alred.
That includes giving opportunities to players including Blues back Jamie Elliott, who has been working for Bullerwell at its
office in Goldington Road for two years.
Bullerwell managing director Damon Blakey said: “The Bullerwell name has been synonymous with Bedford Blues for over 50 years and we are proud to maintain our support and connection to the club. The Blues really are the heart and soul of the town and we cannot wait for the season to start.”
Hatters Home & Style will celebrate 30 years of sponsorship of Bedford Blues this season. The company is an independent family-run business with connections to the town spanning more than 65 years.
Managing director Matthew Garner said: “We have built a long-term relationship with the Blues and feel it is important to support our local club and be part of the fantastic community spirit
that the club has created.”
B&W Waste Management has increased its support to become a Club Level partner. The company, operating from Twinwoods Business Park near Milton Ernest, came on board as a sponsor last year. Operations director Connor Steels said: “Rugby has always been a key part of our family business. After supporting our home town of Bedford for a long time in many ways, being a club partner was only a matter of time.”
Haynes-based cyber security business Intqual Pro has renewed its sponsorship of the Junior Blues. “We have started to really understand how crucial the partner, charity and youth networks are to the community,” said managing director Barry Searle.
Dr Dallas Burston (centre) with members of Brixworth Cricket and Tennis Clubs
As his autobiography Sold! hits the bookshelves, auctioneer and TV presenter Charlie Ross talks to Andrew Gibbs about a career in which he has sold everything from historic cars to a hip replacement.
Poultry, paintings and million-dollar classics
Working the room. Sensing the mood. Analysing the audience. Finding those with buying on their mind… The secrets of success in the auction room, according to a man who should know.
“I love auctioneering,” said TV personality and auctioneer Charlie Ross. “Rather than having to know about the things I am selling, I like to find out about the people who are buying them.
“The big excitement is seeing someone who really wants to buy the item and the thrill you can see on their face when they succeed. It does not matter whether it is a table for £40 or a car for $10 million.”
Charlie has been overseeing sales since the age of 18, originally auctioning chickens and turkeys after joining estate agent and auction house WS Johnson in Bletchley. “My first sale was a pen of chickens for three shillings and nine pence.”
He then went freelance before teaming up with former WS Johnson colleague Alan Downer at Downer Duff, a chartered surveyor firm in Milton Keynes, to launch a fine art auction division. It was based at
the Old Town Hall in Woburn for 25 years.
Life has worked out all right for the teenager whose dream of becoming a dentist foundered when he flunked his A Levels. Today Charlie remains a favourite on the BBC programme Bargain Hunt, of which he is one of seven presenters, and has appeared on Antiques Road Trip, Flog It!, Antiques Roadshow and others.
When he is not on our TV screens, he is conducting auctions in California of vintage cars. He has conducted the Pebble Beach Vintage Car auction in California, and the Amelia Island auction in Florida for Gooding & Company for many years. But it was a job that came about by chance.
A friend was an auctioneer in California and recommended Charlie to David Gooding, who ran the RM sales in California. Gooding was coming to the UK and agreed to meet at The Randolph Hotel in Oxford.
“I had never been to America and I did not have the courage to tell him. I had never sold anything in dollars and never sold anything for £1 million, and one car alone was worth more than this amount.
But he wanted me to do the sale so I came up with a really good plan.
“I said: ‘Fly me to America business class, put me up in a five star hotel and I’ll conduct your auction. Then afterwards you can pay me what you think I’m worth.”
20 years on, Charlie will conduct this year’s auction at Pebble Beach. It was the scene of, for him, his stand-out sale: of a 1935 Mormon Meteor car that had held the world land speed record.
The price: $4.05 million.
It is a huge event, attracting between 1,500 and 2,000 people. The combined bottom estimates for this year’s auction
Charlie in action at the Downer Ross saleroom (left) in Woburn Town Hall
are $198 million. Charlie still holds the record for the highest price for an American car achieved at auction. A 1935 Duesenberg sold in 2018 for $22 million.
He has penned the story of his life in his autobiography Sold!, co-written with his author brother Stewart and published by Blean Books, and is taking his reflections of his career around the country on a theatre tour in the company of fellow antiques experts and presenters Christina Trevanion and Philip Serrell.
In the show, called Antiques and a Little Bit of Nonsense, the three auctioneers share secrets of the antiques world and themselves before answering questions from the audience. The show is coming to The Stables in Wavendon on January 26.
Charlie looks back at his time in the Downer Ross saleroom in Woburn with fondness. It began when chartered surveyor Alan Downer, who had worked with Charlie at WS Johnson but was now joint senior partner at Downer Duff, approached him to set up a partnership. The first auction sales took place at Great Linford Manor before a move to The Old Town Hall in Woburn, where Downer Ross Fine Art Auctioneers remained until 2008.
“Alan was a chartered surveyor and there was no synergy between commercial sheds and offices and antiques. But Alan liked antiques.
“However the most exciting thing was clearing houses and finding lovely treasures. I remember an old bureau bookcase which came out of a house at Water Eaton. The owner came along to a roadshow in Newport Pagnell and said he had been offered £1,000. I went and had a look and reckoned it was worth a bit more than that. It ended up selling for £32,000, That was my first big sale.”
Another find - an oil painting by French impressionist Fantin-Latour - sold at auction at Sotheby’s for £200,000.
The worst lot he ever sold? An old wardrobe in the Woburn saleroom. “We asked for opening bids of £100 – nothing. £50 –nothing. £10 – nothing. Then I said: ‘It’s free to anyone who will take it away’. Nothing.
“I said I’ll pay anyone £5 to take it away. Nothing. “£10 to take it away.” A gentleman put his hand up, I said ‘Sold!’, gave him a tenner out of my pocket and told him I never wanted to see the wardrobe again.”
The best? “The Mormon Meteor, most definitely. It was so different to anything I had ever sold before.”
Charlie’s distinctive style has drawn praise from those for whom he conducts auctions. David Gooding, whose company presents the annual Pebble Beach auction, describes Charlie as “without doubt the finest auctioneer I have ever seen in action.
“Charlie’s vast experience and ease on the rostrum, combined with his charm and quick wit, enable him to engage and keep total control of a room that is sometimes as large as 2,000 people.”
Said Charlie: “I have been auctioneering since I was 18 and I still love it. You have to have a passion for what you do, a clear voice, command of the room and keep the sale moving.”
Charlie also carries out between 70
and 80 charity auctions every year for organisations including The Prince’s Trust, Cancer Research UK, The Red Cross and, locally, Willen Hospice and The Lord’s Taverners. His auction at the Elton John AIDS Foundation dinner in 2022 raised £2.2 million. The charity Caudwell Children benefited by more than £430,000 after an auction at the Amber Lounge in Monaco. Charity lots are many and varied. Charlie has auctioned a one-on-one yoga session with singer-songwriter Sting for £65,000 and a self-portrait painted by boxer Frank Bruno that raised £10,000. “Even though I think he must have painted it with his gloves on.”
One of the oddest lots was a hip replacement donated by a Harley Street surgeon and bought by a 40-year-old man for £3,500. “I said to him ‘You know the surgeon will be long retired if not dead by the time you need it…”
Sold! Is published by Blean Books bleanbooks.co.uk. Price: £20. Also available from waterstones.com and amazon.co.uk online.
Tickets to Antiques and a Little Bit of Nonsense at The Stables, Wavendon, on January 26 are on sale at stables.org.
Charlie and fellow auctioneers Christina Trevanion and Philip Serrell are talking Antiques and A Little Bit of Nonsense on a nationwide theatre tour taking in The Stables at Wavendon in January
Charlie Ross still holds the record for the highest price achieved at auction for a car in the USA... $22 million
Right: Charlie’s autobiography Sold!
Business Soundbites
A snapshot of what business people have been telling us.
“In logistics, we saw a sector that desperately needed a technological revolution. We knew we could build something that would meet a growing need.”
As Starship Technologies marks its tenth anniversary, co-founder Ahti Heinla reflects on the inspiration for delivery robots in Milton Keynes.
“It’s a tough time to be a SME in the UK and the last thing small business owners need is to be shortchanged on their savings – many without even knowing it.”
Richard Davies, CEO of Milton Keynes-based Allica Bank, says it is time for change in the business savings accounts market.
“What is concerning is the critically low confidence in AI and green technology.”
Baroness Martha Lane-Fox, Chancellor of The Open University and president of the British Chambers of Commerce, highlights a key issue in UK skills development.
“A greater sense of political stability has the potential to revitalise the UK economy and bring new investment into the UK.”
Georgina Stone, of OCM Wealth Management in Northampton, sees a positive future for investors under a Labour government.
“The manifesto promises do not mean that personal taxes will not be raised. Quite the contrary.”
MHA tax partner James Kipping urges caution over Labour’s pre-election promises.
“It is only by pushing against the limits of what is possible in science, technology, engineering and maths that HMGCC engineers technologies which help keep the UK safe.”
George Williamson, head of HM Government Communications Centre at Hanslope, on his honorary degree from Cranfield University.
“We are confident that this initiative will make a real difference.”
MyMiltonKeynes BID CEO Jill Farnsworth on the My Local Bobby scheme launched in the city centre.
Grief: A lonely and isolating experience
Parents mourning the loss of a child are finding comfort in the range of support provided by a regional funerals specialist.
Neville Funerals, part of family business the Neville Trust group of companies, provides support services including free support groups, access to the online bereavement counselling service GriefChat and has produced its own specialist child bereavement book.
The company, whose head office is in Luton and which has branches across Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire, was a major supporter of the National Bereaved Parents Day campaign last month.
Neville Funerals director Vicky Trumper said: “Losing a child really is a parent’s worst nightmare, which is why we want to share the grief support we offer in the hope it reaches someone in need. We recognise the challenges of grief so always want to do what we can to provide our services to those who need it most.
“Grief can be a lonely and isolating experience, even if you
have family support.”
In 2019, Neville Funerals released its own grief support book Supporting a child through bereavement and beyond, which is free to download at nevillefuneralservice.com or available in print from the company’s Luton office.
The book guides parents and carers when explaining death and the funeral process to a child who has lost a sibling. It also highlights the key signs to look out for in a grieving child and how adults can discuss death, a funeral or burial.
“We believe in going above and beyond for our staff and customers which is why we have partnered with GriefChat to provide professional grief support,” said Vicky (inset)
“GriefChat provides a safe place for grieving and bereaved people to share their story, explore their feelings and access professional guidance.”
The GriefChat service is accessible via the Neville Funerals website. The company also supports the stillborn and neonatal deaths charity SANDS and runs free Talking Elephants bereavement support groups.
Restaurateur is bringing it home to Bedfordshire
Restaurant group Lussmans is to open its seventh restaurant in October in Woburn.
The group, which already has dining venues in Hertfordshire and is preparing to open its sixth restaurant in Highgate, north London, later this month, is to open its doors at the former Loch Fyne premises (pictured) on the Market Square.
Founder and managing director Andrei Lussmann, who lives in Bedfordshire, said: “It is one that is particularly special to me as it is in my home county.”
Student celebrates historic law prize
It is an award that is six centuries in the making… and second-year law student Lauren Knights intends to grab it with both hands.
The University of Northampton undergraduate is among this year’s winners of the Lord Neuberger Prize, awarded by the Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn to students at non-Russell Group universities. Lincoln’s Inn is one of four Inns of Court and barristers must be a member of one of them in order to practise law.
The prize aims to identify students who have proved their excellence and gives them the opportunity to integrate with the Inn during the final year of their qualifying law degree.
Lauren, a former pupil of Caroline Chisholm School in Northampton, said: “To be in this position to speak to well-established and knowledgeable professionals, I feel very fortunate.
“There is the perception that Russell Group graduates get better access to legal careers. But this prize provides
people the opportunity to access a competitive area and recognises the experience and effort people put in towards that goal.”
Her prize also includes funding, mentoring and support as she puts together applications for scholarships.
The University of Northampton’s senior lecturer in law Dominic Carrington is a qualified barrister. “The role of a barrister is an archaic profession, established in 1532. In today’s modern society it must stay relevant and reflective of the general population,” he said. “The days when the Inns of Court were only open to certain segments of society are gone and this award ensures there is a steady flow of talent into the profession from all segments of society.”
Each non-Russell Group university can nominate one student for the Neuberger Prize each year. “Lauren has shown great tenacity throughout her time at UoN, with fantastic grades,” Dominic said. “She has grabbed every opportunity sent her way. We think she is one to watch.”
Welcome back ten amazing days
Ten days of world-class live music, outdoor events, circus shows, comedy, cabaret and free family entertainment are coming to Milton Keynes next summer at IF: Milton Keynes International Festival 2025.
The festival takes place at venues across the city on July 18-27 and is produced by The Stables at Wavendon.
Next year’s will be the eighth IF, which has engaged more than one million people since its first in 2010. IF has recently been honoured with the EFFE Label 2024/2025 by the European Festivals Association, recognising the event as one of Europe’s most remarkable festivals. The festival is supported by Arts Council England, Milton Keynes City Council and headline partner centre:mk.
Waterway vision nears reality
The long-awaited waterway connecting Bedford and Milton Keynes has passed a significant milestone.
A celebration event has toasted the launch of the delivery phase of the proposed Bedford and Milton Keynes Waterway project. It will focus on constructing sections of the canal as funding opportunities become available. The new phase aims to encourage development and economic growth throughout the corridor, creating new jobs, leisure opportunities and environmental benefits for the region.
Simon Clewlow, chair of the Bedford and Milton Keynes Waterway Trust, said years of hard work and dedication were coming to fruition. “This phased approach ensures benefits come to the local area now, while at the same time, we will keep promoting how the strategic benefits the project will bring to the region can be maximised.”
The completed waterway will link the Grand Union Canal in Milton Keynes with the River Great Ouse in Bedford, boosting tourism and recreation and creating an alternative route for more sustainable modes of transport.
Tom Wootton (pictured below), Mayor of Bedford Borough, said: “The Bedford and Milton Keynes Waterway is no longer just a vision; it is becoming a reality. We are excited to collaborate with our partners to bring this transformative project to life.”
Apprentice takes on the UK’s best
Welding and fabrication student Daniel McMillan is to represent Northampton College in the WorldSkills UK national finals.
Daniel, an apprentice at Grove Engineering in Corby, will compete against seven other students at Wigan and Leigh College in November. His lecturer Mark Clifford said: “I think this is the very first time as a department that we have got this far in the WorldSkills competition. Taking part was amazing but to get through to the nationals stage of the WorldSkills competition is an unforgettable achievement.”
Competitions take place in eight venues in Greater Manchester in November.
Lauren Knights
‘Worrying
trends’ in county’s debt crisis
More than 19,000 people have turned to Northamptonshire charity Community Law Service in the last 12 months for specialist housing, benefits, debt, energy and immigration advice.
The charity’s Annual Achievements report for 2023-24 highlights soaring debt across the county and an increased demand for its services.
More than four in ten clients have dependent children - a 6% increase on 12 months ago – and 30% are in work but still struggling to make ends meet.
“There have been some worrying trends this year, clearly showing the ongoing impact of the cost of living crisis,” said Community Law Service’s chief executive Sarah Hayle.
n More than £28.5 million debt was managed on behalf of clients.
n Over £8.5 million of welfare benefit income was claimed for residents.
n The charity provided representation at 1,116 court hearings in respect of housing repossession and eviction.
n 335 people received immigration advice, representing 59 nationalities.
n 1,425 people were given fuel poverty advice. £62,700 was saved through energy efficiency measures and interventions as a result.
“The level of debt managed and complexity of cases has also been significant, with each case having on average more than three separate matters to resolve,” said Sarah. “We have achieved excellent outcomes but these rarely tell the full story.”
Homes are where the heart is for developer
Housing developer Grace Homes has renewed its charity partnership with Cransley Hospice Trust for a further 12 months.
The company has raised more than £15,000 for the trust since the partnership began three years ago.
“This year holds special significance for us as we celebrate our 25th anniversary and partnering with such a remarkable charity reflects our ongoing commitment to the community,” said Grace Homes design director Steven Bateman.
“This is like a job for me,” said Donna Sumpter. “I love talking and welcoming people.”
It is a role she has been doing for ten years as the first face visitors to Corby Foodbank see as they arrive.
Donna dedicates two days a week to the charity, sitting at the welcome desk inside the door at St Peter and St Andrew’s Church in Beanfield Avenue.
She began volunteering after going through hard times herself, enduring a difficult relationship, poor mental and physical health and facing the threat of losing her home. It was only the intervention of a local housing charity that kept her afloat.
“They helped me and came to see me. I was in a bad place but I had a network around me. So when I was back on my feet, I started volunteering to give back.”
She believes that her own struggles and life experiences have helped her to better understand the people she helps.
“I think it is because I have been there and I can see myself in their position. I always say if you are hungry and you have money, it does not matter. If you have no money, it really does matter.
“I am one of the lucky ones. I have food in my cupboards and a roof over my head but some people do not. You do not
SUPPORTING LOCAL CHARITIES
‘There is no shame in asking for help’
need to be ashamed if that is the case. There is no shame in asking for help.”
Corby Foodbank distributes three-day emergency, non-perishable food parcels to people in food crisis. Clients must be referred to the Food Bank to use the service. A Citizens Advice Bureau adviser is on hand on site as well.
“Sometimes we only see people once or twice but I say to everyone ‘Come back and let us know how you are’,” said Donna. “We like to know how people are getting on. We do not just offer food - we can signpost and help people.”
Corby Foodbank manager Martin Langford said: “We understand the bravery it takes for people to access the foodbank and we have tried to break down those barriers. Donna is the first person people see when they walk through the door and she is perfect for that role.
“She loves a chat and she likes to hug people, immediately putting them at ease. She is a great asset and to be volunteering for that length of time is just incredible. Our volunteers do an amazing job. The foodbank could not operate without them.”
n For more information about Corby Foodbank visit www.corby.foodbank.org.uk
Donna Sumpter
Accountants body backs MK Pride
Chartered accountancy body ICAEW has delivered a £6,000 boost to the contribution of Milton Keynes Community Foundation to this year’s MK Pride Festival.
The foundation has backed the festival since 2019 and this year’s donation from ICEAW takes the total funding for this year to £24,000. MK Pride takes place in September at Campbell Park.
Kim Nyawira, ICAEW’s head of committees and tribunals, said: “One of our values at ICAEW is to build local economies and communities that are sustainable, accountable and fair. We are committed to supporting the diversity agenda and making both the chartered accountancy profession and, in our role as a local employer, the local community truly inclusive.”
Funding from the Community Foundation has supported initiatives aimed at creating the festival’s safe and welcoming environment. MK Pride Festival director Keith Emmett III said: “This generous contribution has helped us elevate our event by enabling us to provide accessibility services such as BSL interpreters across our stages. This magnifies our impact as a staple event for the area.”
More than 1,000 participants have raised £135,000 and counting at this year’s Midnight Moo in aid of Willen Hospice. The walkers completed five- and ten-mile sponsored walks along the redways of Milton Keynes, starting and finishing in Midsummer Place shopping centre. The Midnight Moo, sponsored by Specsavers MK, is the hospice’s main fundraising event of the year and this year’s total - money is still coming in - is already the highest in six years.
The festival provides a platform for LGBTQ+ voices and communities and attracts thousands of visitors each year.
“We are thrilled to mark five years of our partnership,” said Samantha Snelus,
Club savours a taste of Word Cup glory
A total 200 teams were cheered on by around 4,000 visitors to the annual Willen World Cup annual football tournament. The two-day event, sponsored by vehicle retailer Steven Eagell Toyota, saw teams from under-sevens to under-16s compete for their respective trophies.
SUPPORTING LOCAL CHARITIES
The dealership is a long-time supporter of Willen FC, including sponsoring its under-12 Knights team.
Willen FC chairman Peter Morris said: “Events such as these not only bring together around 2,000 children and their families to have fun but they are also vital
the foundation’s philanthropy manager. “Our ongoing strategic partnership has enabled the festival to thrive, promoting diversity and creating a sense of belonging in Milton Keynes.”
to help us raise funds to keep costs down for our players, making it as affordable as possible and enabling us to buy essential equipment for the club.” A portion of the money raised by the tournament will go to the Milton Keynes-based charities Willen Hospice and Emily’s Star.
Steven Eagell Group’s operations director Sheraz Rashid said: “All of the players should be incredibly proud of their hard work and team spirit, as should the organisers and volunteers behind the event. Engaging with our local communities is a key priority for us.”
n The fifth annual Silverstone Soccer charity event has raised more than £3,000 for Cynthia Spencer Hospice.
Ten teams competed in the five-aside fundraiser at Daventry Town FC, with the team from Stonhills Estate Agents collecting the winner’s trophy ahead of Betchle UK. The event, hosted by vehicle leasing firm Silverstone Leasing, has raised thousands of pounds for the hospice since it began in 2020.
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