4FRONT - Spring 2014 Edition

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The business magazine of South Cheshire Chamber

Spring Edition 2014

‘A good place to do business’ Page 8

Chamber opens Nantwich office Page 10

Rail hub on fast track Page 26

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FOREWORD

Welcome to the Spring edition of 4Front, the magazine for businesses in South Cheshire South Cheshire Chamber has always strived to improve and be an integral part of the local business community and this has recently been acknowledged by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) who have recognised our organisation as an Accredited Chamber of the National network. The Chairman, Board and I are extremely proud of this achievement which identifies us as one of the fifty four Chambers in the Country with this prestigious honour.

The rigorous accreditation process examined all aspects of the Chamber including the most important aspect of all, our commitment and support to the local business community and we will continue to strive to make your Chamber even better.

One recent improvement has seen the Chamber open an office in Nantwich (page 10), this demonstrates our commitment to the town, and should help the Chamber engage with more businesses and help the local economy prosper.

The Chamber has welcomed Sir David Higgins, HS2 Chairman’s announcement that he would like to see Crewe become an integrated rail hub on the high speed rail line (page 26). This is excellent news for South Cheshire and will clearly enhance the connectivity and attract new

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Chamber Team

Paul Colman Chief Executive

Erika Floodgate Apprentice to Chief Executive

businesses to the area. Sir David Higgins also announced that he would like to see the line up to Crewe completed six years earlier by 2027, which will mean we can reap the economic benefits sooner.

On top of the HS2 announcement, Crewe has been recognised as the best place in the North West to start a business according to new research from Experian.

As Mike Suarez, Chief Executive of Cheshire East Council outlines (page 25) this area is a great location for businesses of all sizes.

On behalf of the Chamber and the Board I would like to congratulate our Chamber President John Bowler, Chairman of Crewe Alexandra football club, on his ‘Contribution to the League Football Award’. It is a tremendous accolade and thoroughly deserved.

As you will see in this edition, it has been a good start to 2014 for the Chamber and the local business community. Companies of all sizes are performing very well and making significant contributions to the economy in the area which should be applauded and long may it continue for the rest of the year.

Jon Barnes Chamber Executive International Trade Co-ordinator

Tina Hankey Chamber Executive Membership Co-ordinator

Madeleine Abbey Chamber Executive - Events & Marketing

Nadeem Ahmad Chamber Executive Business Community & ICT Development

Anne Xiourouppa Accounts

Richard Weilding Business Loans Executive

Paul Wilcox UKTI

Clair Visco Business Travel Planning Officer

I hope you enjoy this magazine and if your company has good news to share, please do not hesitate to contact the Chamber.

Chief Executive

For Articles and Advertising Sales please contact: Tina Hankey South Cheshire Chamber, Lyme Building, Westmere Drive, Crewe Business Park, Crewe CW1 6ZD Tel: 01270 504700 • Ext 16 Fax: 01270 504701 Email: tina.hankey@sccci.co.uk www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk www.sccci.co.uk/portal/tina-hankey

The Chamber, or any of its agents/representatives/staff, cannot accept any legal liability for the accuracy of the news items and articles contained in the magazine, which have been obtained and are reproduced in good faith. The Chamber also reserves the right to edit articles submitted for publication or exclude them completely.

www.sccci.co.uk

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NEW MEMBERS

Meet our new members . .

A C Graphics 52 Hospital Street NANTWICH CW5 5RP Mobile: 07576 292 527 amandawaud368@btinternet.com www.acgraphicsnantwich.wix.com/photography Photographic Arabella 9 Hospital Street NANTWICH CW5 5RL Mobile: 07836 365 375 arabellamacclesfield@gmail.com Ladies Fashion

Bloom 16 Pillory Street NANTWICH CW5 5BD Telephone: 01270 618 882 sarah@eatatbloom.co.uk www.eatatbloom.co.uk Food Charles Cowap 31 Jan Palach Avenue NANTWICH CW5 7DJ Mobile: 07947 706 505 cdcowap@gmail.com Chartered Surveyor and Training Specialist

Cheshire Bright Carpet Cleaning 10 Pine Walk NANTWICH CW5 7DE Telephone: 01270 628 423 jez@cheshirebright.co.uk www.cheshirebright.co.uk Cleaning Service

Cheshire Ecosteam Cleaning Services 2 Stanthorne Avenue CREWE CW2 8NH Mobile: 07531 179 787 cheshireecosteam@live.co.uk www.cheshiresteamclean.co.uk Cleaning Service

Chic Interiors 7 The Cocoa Yard NANTWICH CW5 5BL Telephone: 01270 626 814 dawnkilburn@yahoo.com http://www.chicinteriorscheshire.com Furniture Retailers

Cindy & Co. Limited The Weston Centre M6 Weston Road CREWE CW1 6FL Telephone 01270 500 511 cindy.adegbile@cindyandco.co.uk www.cindyandco.co.uk Finance & Legal

Future Business Solutions 6 Birch Close HOLMES CHAPEL CW4 7QF Telephone: 01477 549 417 Fax: 01477 549 418 stuart@fbizs.com www.tbizs.com Telecommunications

KR Vision 2 Pillory Street NANTWICH CW5 5BD Telephone: 01270 626 471 krvisionelectricals@gmail.com www.krvision.co.uk Retail Node 14 Ltd 25 Sandford Crescent Wychwood Park CREWE CW2 5GJ Mobile: 07515 720 644 sarahcheffinsnode14@gmail.com Marketing

Orascan 12 The Cocoa Yard NANTWICH CW5 5BL Telephone: 01270 611 212 orascann@gmail.com www.orascan.net Healthcare

Pitman Training Centre 2nd Floor Nantwich Court Hospital Street NANTWICH CW5 5RH Telephone: 01270 626 083 crewe.nantwich@pitman-training.net Training

Shine Through Cleaning Services Ltd 27 Sandford Crescent Wychwood Park CREWE CW23 5GJ Telephone: 01782 501 007 Mobile: 07584 417 350 karen@shinethrough.org.uk www.shinethroughcleaningservices.co.uk Cleaning Service

South Cheshire Commercial Services Ltd 22 Westbury Close Wistaston CREWE CW2 6TY Mobile: 07788 268 852 richardweilding@me.com Business Management Consultant

The Glasheen Academy Unit 13 Underwood Business Park Underwood Lane CREWE CW1 3JT Mobile: 07903 922 657 damian@tgauk.com www.tgauk.com Martial Arts

Cheshire Centre of Dental Excellence 146 Bedford Street CREWE CW2 6JG Telephone: 01270 256 426 Fax: 01270 212 852 nursesands@gmail.com www.cheshirecentreofdentalexcellence.com Dental

For more information on joining the Chamber contact Tina on 01270 504700 Ext 16 or email tina.hankey@sccci.co.uk If you would like a meeting with a member of the Chamber Team, please contact the Chamber on 01270 504700 Spring Edition 2014

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CHAMBER NEWS 5

Meet our new members continued . .

Looking back to Christmas 2013 was brought to a close for members attending a Christmas networking event hosted by the Chamber and Mercedes-Benz of Stoke.

Cleaning Supplies 2 U Unit 3 Wallace Court Road Three Winsford Industrial Estate WINSFORD CW7 3PD Telephone: 01606 863 637 Fax: 01606 552 288 cleaningsupplies2u@gmail.com www.cleaningsupplies2u.co.uk Janitorial Supplies Phoenix Tree Care 20 Main Road Shavington CREWE CW2 5DY Telephone: 01270 585 419 dannysbanks@aol.com Tree Surgeon

Simply Gym Ltd The Old Squash Club West Street CREWE CW2 8SJ Telephone: 01270 252 445 k.dingle@simplygym.co.uk www.simplygym.co.uk Health & Fitness

Studio Nightclub Castle Street NANTWICH CW5 5BA Telephone: 01270 623 663 nigel.woodhouse@hotmail.co.uk thestudionantwich.co.uk Leisure

The popular get-together attracted more than 60 guests to Rookery Hall where Chamber chairman John Dunning spoke of ‘renewed business confidence’ and the bright New Year ahead before announcing the organisation had joined the British Chambers of Commerce giving it more weight on national issues.

Mercedes-Benz were kind sponsors of the event for a fourth year. General manager Rob Dawson said: “As a business based just 15 miles from Crewe we are very keen to meet local businesses and contribute to the South Cheshire area, so we were very pleased to support the Chamber’s festive event again.”

Wilbrahams Bar and Grill 58 Welsh Row NANTWICH CW5 5EJ Telephone: 01270 618 600 info@wilbrahamsbarandgrill.co.uk www.wilbrahamsbarandgrill.co.uk Restaurants

Crewe SEAT 3rd Avenue Weston Road CREWE CW1 6XZ Telephone: 01270 507 040 a.barnes@creweseat.co.uk

Chamber welcomes new members Welcome Mornings are proving popular with new members. The regular events are staged at the Chamber offices on Crewe Business Park and offer an opportunity to learn more about the benefits of being a Chamber member.

Attendees hear about the various networking and promotional opportunities available including the Chamber Portal, e-newsletter and 4Front magazine.

There’s also an insight into how the Chamber supports local businesses who export and how it lobbies on behalf of the local business community in South Cheshire.

Events and Marketing Executive Madeleine Abbey said: “The Chamber membership consists of several hundred members drawn from small, medium and large businesses across South Cheshire.

“Everyone in business from the sole trader to the multi-national has an opportunity to meet, make new contacts and share ideas through Chamber networking events. Our Welcome Mornings provide an informal setting to set the ball rolling for new members.”

Chamber chairman John Dunning and chief executive Paul Colman (left) with Rob Dawson and Cathy Tinsley of Mercedes-Benz

Date for the Diary Make sure you save the date of 24th April for our inaugural "Economic Business Breakfast" kindly sponsored by Jones Sheridan Financial Consulting and Schroders.

Guest Speaker Keith Wade Chief Economist from Schroders will give us his insight into the local, national and international economy.

This free event will be held at Crewe Hall starting at 7.45am and will include tea, coffee and bacon sandwiches, for more details call the Chamber 01270 504700 or book online www.sccci.co.uk

Welcome Mornings are open to new and existing members as well as people new to member businesses.

The next Welcome Morning will at 9.30am on April 4.

Summer Issue due out 20th June 2014 Editorial Deadline 23rd May 2014 • Contact tina.hankey@sccci.co.uk Advertisement Deadline 4th June 2014 • Contact tina.hankey@sccci.co.uk

www.sccci.co.uk

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CHAMBER NEWS

Chamber support helps young people get creative The unit will provide much needed facilities to enable young local people to engage in arts, cultural and sports activities and have been recognised as having educational and social needs and are currently not in education, employment or training (NEETS).

Support for these activities will be provided

by Urban Cheshire CIC which is run by Katie Leonard and has a reputation for delivering high quality creative arts opportunities and activities.

It is expected that young people will be able to access the centre and gain accredited Arts Award programmes by participating in new media, expressive arts, visual arts, theatre, DJ classes and music workshops.

Katie Leonard of Urban Cheshire CIC

The Chamber Loan Fund has demonstrated its versatility recently by part financing a premises acquisition for local entrepreneur Tom Leonard.

Katie explains: “Our aim is to increase accessibility to the arts for 16 – 25 year olds who are currently unable to do so through other channels. We are looking to have a positive impact on the lives of these young people. By working with other agencies we are looking to create an interesting and stimulating environment for young people by engaging in creative workshops and gaining skills to gain employment within the creative sector.”

The property does need some work on it to bring it up to standard and Tom will undertake most of this himself with a view to a full launch this summer. The scheme will then be fully integrated into the existing small business complex that Tom has developed at the Middlewich Street site near Crewe Town Centre.

Richard Weilding, Loan Fund Executive for the Chamber of Commerce, said: “This is an innovative scheme that can benefit the local community in different ways from our normal commercial deals and our Lending Committee was delighted to add their support to Urban Cheshire’s project.”

The Chamber Fund remains open for business and as demonstrated above we are able to cover a wide range of activities and provide a degree of flexibility where a tangible benefit to the community of Crewe and Nantwich can be evidenced.

If you have a project that you feel may require finance then why not get in touch with Richard at the Chamber of Commerce on 01270 504700

Need a loan? The Chamber can help . . .

The question of Independence for Scotland looks as though it will remain high on the political agenda over the coming months until such time as the people have their chance to vote on this issue later this year.

With issues surrounding Catalonia, The Basque Region and most recently the split within Ukraine, it does seem as though there are issues throughout Europe that raise questions of discontent within certain countries.

Perhaps we should look more locally and consider independence for the People’s Republic of Crewe and Nantwich.

The success of Bentley would ensure an export led economy, passport controls at Crewe Station with suitably appointed personal toll booths would be a revenue winner and self-sufficiency in food would be assured via Mornflake and Wrights Pies, with the Nantwich based breweries ensuring that we retain a balanced diet.

If we were to declare war, then we would have the most advanced army of ice cream vans in the country which could be suitably adapted – no one likes the feel of cold ice cream across the back of their neck.

On the sporting front Crewe Alex would be in Europe every year and the faithful could enjoy annual trips to Northern Norway, with the winner playing Kazakhstan’s fifth placed team in the first preliminary

group stage of the Europa League.

Thursday’s would never be the same and we would declare Friday the first day of the weekend to cater for the expected weekly celebrations.

At least Nantwich Cricket Team would give the Aussies a game in the Cricket World Cup provided of course that they did not import any South African middle order batsmen.

Having outlined the basics for our independent economy, the only question that remains will be that of Presidency of the new Republic.

I shall of course be putting my own name forward where the Presidential Palace will be a converted Rail House with my Summer Retreat being a static caravan adjacent to Snugbury’s Ice Cream.

Not as daft as it first sounded - eh ?

For more information on Chamber loans contact Richard Weilding on 01270 504700 or email Richard.weilding@sccci.co.uk

You can read more from Richard on the Chamber Portal where he blogs regularly - http://www.sccci.co.uk/portal/richard_weilding/blog

Spring Edition 2014

Business Loans Executive

Should you feel the need to engage further Richard Weilding with the rest of the UK and beyond before you are faced with having to reconsider export licences and currency exchange rates (we shall be adopting the Dabber Dollar), then why not get in touch with the Chamber and see what finance is available (in pounds sterling) to help you achieve these goals.

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CHAMBER NEWS 7

Leveraging Chamber Portal to Create Real-World Connections

Chamber Forthcoming Events NEXT CHAMBER EVENT:

The South Cheshire Chamber Portal allows the Chamber and Members to connect with each other through the various ways we share information on the online networking platform. Regular engagement on the Portal helps to strengthen existing ties and forge new ones, leading to an improved network and community of South Cheshire businesses.

The relationship building effectiveness of the Chamber Portal is further enhanced when it is combined with real world activities. Leveraging the online engagement into real life actions is vital to a successful online networking presence and helps your business to stand out from the rest.

The following steps will help towards turning your online network into real-world connections: ● Attend Chamber and Member events to reconnect with your current network The strongest bonds amongst people are still based on relationships established in the offline, physical world. The easiest way to do this is by attending networking events.

The Chamber Portal lists a number of Chamber and Member events organised throughout the year which you can attend. Let your online network know the events you’ll be attending and try to connect with them at the event.

See the list of ‘Forthcoming Chamber Events’ (opposite) that you can attend ● Invite your online connections to your events You can tap into your connections on the online community by inviting them to your events. By meeting people offline, you will build a stronger network online and vice versa.

Post your events on the Chamber Portal and let your connections know you’re interested in meeting them in person by inviting them via the event management console, a private message on the Portal or through email. ● Take your online conversations offline If you’ve been able to build a rapport with someone you’ve been communicating and engaging online, take it to the next step by inviting to meet offline.

When you meet someone offline with whom you’ve been communicating online, it just takes one comment to get the ball rolling. ● Create business cards highlighting your online profile Your Chamber Portal profile and activities on the network is visible to everyone online and provides an overview of your company and promotion of your engagement/activities on the Chamber Portal. You can promote your company profile and showcase your activities by including your company profile page url on your business card.

The important thing to remember with online networks, as with the internet in general, is that nothing can really replace face-to-face contact. Your online network should enhance your professional profile, not replace it.

Final Friday 28th March Networking at Residence Restaurant & Bar, Nantwich APRIL Meet with Members - 2nd April 5.00pm at The Barbridge Inn Welcome Meeting - 4th April 9.30am at the Chamber UKTI Export Week Event - 11th April at Crewe Hall Routes to Market Export Event - 22nd April with Chester Chamber - Venue to be confirmed Economic Breakfast - 24th April 7.45am at Crewe Hall Final Friday - 25th April 9.00am networking at Crewe Lyceum MAY Welcome Meeting - 2nd May 9.30am at the Chamber Final Friday 30th April 9.00am networking - Venue to be confirmed JUNE Welcome Meeting - 6th June 9.30am at the Chamber Meet with Members - 11th June 5.00pm at Overwater Marina Export Club - Selecting/Profiling Partners - 24th June 8.30am at The Hunters Lodge Final Friday - 27th June 9.00am networking - Venue to be confirmed JULY Welcome Meeting - 4th July 9.30am at the Chamber Golf - Texas Scramble - 17th July 9.00am Wychwood Park Pre Show Business Reception - 29th July 5.00pm at Dorfold Park

The best strategy is to use the power of online social networking and combine it with offline networking to build and deepen more meaningful connections.

Nadeem Ahmad Chamber Business Community and ICT Development

Telephone 01270 504700 Ext 19 www.sccci.co.uk/portal/nadeem-ahmad

Look out for more Chamber events coming soon!

For more information and event listings or if you wish to promote your own event visit the Chamber Member Portal: www.sccci.co.uk

www.sccci.co.uk

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CHAMBER NEWS

From Westminster with Edward Timpson MP Crewe is the best place in the North West to start and run a business, according to new research from Experian. The information services company rated the towns and cities across the UK on four criteria: the number of start-ups; rate of insolvencies; the level of financial health; and turnover growth compared with 2012.

Towns in the South of England accounted for 65 per cent of the top 20, with only Crewe representing the North West. Crewe can be justifiably proud well done!

Thank goodness for Friday - a great new networking day Stapeley House near Nantwich was the venue for a brand new Chamber networking event named ‘Final Friday’.

Over 30 business people gathered for informal networking at the beautiful Georgian building which houses office space for local businesses.

Chamber Chief Executive Paul Colman is welcomed to Stapeley House by Jamie Stewart

The fact is that small businesses have a vital role to play in a sustained economic recovery, not least because they are responsible for half of all job creation. It's important that we continue to push for measures which ease access to finance so that South Cheshire businesses can get on and grow.

The event was hosted and conceived by Chamber member Jamie Stewart of Momentum Factor, specialists in Social Media and Online Marketing.

I'm pleased that 10,000 start-up loans worth a total of £50 million have been awarded to budding entrepreneurs who have good business plans, and need this initial boost to get their ideas off the ground. The 'Funding for Lending Scheme' has proved to be a successful tool in supporting the recovery, and it's right that the Bank of England will now focus this scheme’s firepower on small businesses.

Paul Colman, Chamber Chief Executive explaining the idea behind the new event, said: “Jamie approached me with the idea of introducing a new type of Chamber event, Final Friday. This free event is designed for any member to attend after the school run and is useful if you wish to raise your profile locally, meet members in a relaxed environment and go to different venues across South Cheshire.”

To tackle some of the long term structural issues in the lending to small enterprises, the Government has created the £1 billion Business Bank. The Bank has already made its first investments, and will bring welcome competition to the bank lending market and help bring greater diversity to non-bank business finance sources.

Residence in Nantwich is the next venue for ‘Final Friday on 28th March. For details of forthcoming ‘Final Fridays’ call Madeleine Abbey at the Chamber on 01270 504700 extn. 20

Members make new contacts at Stapeley House

Photographs courtesy of Cloverleaf Images

Encouragingly, the number of small businesses benefitting from the Enterprise Finance Guarantee scheme has reached its highest level since 2010. Through this scheme, which helps those businesses who would otherwise be unable to obtain credit, banks offered loans worth £111 million to small businesses in the third quarter of 2013.

It is a priority of this Government to stand up for hardworking people, by backing the businesses that create jobs and growth both here in South Cheshire and across the whole country. I assure you I will always offer my support to anything which helps Crewe and Nantwich business access finance.

Finally, apprenticeships are at the heart of the Government’s drive to equip people with the skills employers need.

I am proud of the record numbers now taking part, with a million and a half starts since 2010. Crewe and Nantwich itself has seen a 24.1 per cent fall in youth unemployment in the last year. The Prime Minister recently unveiled improved standards for apprenticeships, designed and led by industry, which will focus on quality for learners and ease of use for employers.

I want the apprenticeships available in the UK to be the best in the world, and would encourage you to strengthen your business, should funds permit, by taking on an apprentice from our area, so that your business will be taken into the next generation in safe, local, highly-skilled hands.

Edward Timpson can be contacted on 01270 501725

Spring Edition 2014

Are you receiving the Chamber e-newsletter?

Sent fortnightly to all Chamber Members, the e-newsletter provides the latest information about your local business community network and offers marketing opportunities for your business.

Information • Chamber and Business News & Blogs • Members News & Blogs • Chamber Events (Forthcoming) • Members Events and Training Courses (Forthcoming and on-going) Promotion • Sponsorship - Your advertising banner promoting your company and your support of the Chamber • Advertising - Your advertising banner placed in-between the different section of the newsletter.

Take advantage of the marketing opportunities entitled to you through the Chamber membership and reach out to new customers, build your brand, position yourself as a market leader and reinforce your brand to existing customers.

Please contact Nadeem Ahmad at the Chamber for more details Email nadeem.ahmad@sccci.co.uk Telephone 01270 504700 (extn. 19)

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NETWORKING

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Chamber raises curtain on social events A social evening at Crewe Lyceum Theatre hit the right note with South Cheshire Chamber members.

A large group attended a performance of the smash hit musical Blood Brothers which enjoyed a successful run at the venue, now operated by HQ Theatres.

The theatre in its Edwardian splendour, also welcomes businesses looking to stage meetings. More top-name productions are planned including The Mousetrap in June.

For more information on Chamber events please call 01270 504700

It was the first in a series of outings giving members a break from business pressures.

Chamber Chairman John Dunning, Crewe Lyceum Theatre Director Gordon Millar and Chamber Chief Executive Paul Colman before the performance of Blood Brothers

Theatre director Gordon Millar welcomed members to a drinks reception before the evening’s performance of Willy Russell’s tale of twins separated at birth.

Chamber Chief Executive, Paul Colman, said: “The theatre is a fantastic asset for South Cheshire and it is important that we show our support for this venue.”

He added: “We are always looking to introduce new events to the Chamber calendar. We have a full programme of networking dates planned but a trip to the theatre was an opportunity to meet informally, enjoy a glass of wine and a fantastic show.”

Museum puts business in focus Meet with Members These FREE events offer the opportunity to network with Members on your way home from work

South Cheshire Chamber members mingle at the Nantwich Camera Club exhibition in the town museum

Nantwich Museum was the venue for a networking event with a difference. South Cheshire Chamber members gathered for an informal evening in the museum’s Millennium Gallery which is currently home to an exhibition by Nantwich Camera Club.

The display of more than 90 images was enjoyed by representatives from a wide range of local businesses. Teas, coffees and chocolates provided by Chocoholics in Nantwich also went down well.

The exhibition, running to April 12, includes scenes of stunning landscapes, wildlife, cute pets and all-action sport events.

For further information on Nantwich Museum events visit www.nantwichmuseum.org.uk

The Barbridge Inn on Wednesday 2 April at 5.00pm There will be refreshments and an opportunity to enjoy informal networking at the popular canalside pub. and then at Overwater Marina on Wednesday 11 June at 5.00pm For more information call Chamber Events and Marketing Executive Madeleine Abbey on 01270 504700

Chamber marketing and events coordinator Madeleine Abbey said: “It was our first event at the museum and there was plenty to see. Staff gave us a very warm welcome and we hope to return soon.”

Some of the eye-catching images on show designed into a collage

www.sccci.co.uk

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10 CHAMBER NEWS / MEMBERS NEWS

Chamber unveils new base in Nantwich The South Cheshire Chamber has reaffirmed its commitment to Nantwich by launching a new base in the town.

Our new office located at Nantwich Court on Hospital Street provides a physical presence for the Chamber in Nantwich, as it grows its membership among town traders and other businesses.

The upper level office at Nantwich Court operated by Chamber member, Lamont Commercial Ltd - will act as a meeting point for any business, large or small, looking to join and engage with the Chamber.

It will also offer facilities for meetings, workshops and Chamber Welcome Morning events.

The Chamber has backed the local business community for more than 25 years, offering services to help them connect, grow and create new jobs.

Paul added: “Nantwich is a great market town with excellent businesses. There are already huge crowd-pulling events such as the Nantwich Show and the Food and Drink Festival which showcases its businesses and adds to its vibrant economy.

“All add to South Cheshire as an exciting destination and place to do business.”

Nantwich businesses interested in joining the Chamber and meeting for an informal discussion in the new base are asked to call 01270 504700

Andy Butler of Lamont Commercial Ltd welcomes South Cheshire Chamber Chief Executive, Paul Colman

The Chamber headquarters on Crewe Business Park will remain the hub of its operations including its loan scheme and services to businesses involved in exporting products.

Chief Executive, Paul Colman, said: “The Chamber is delighted to secure premises in Nantwich. Our presence in the town will give us the opportunity to engage more with Nantwich companies and help the local economy prosper.”

Paul Colman takes a seat at the Nantwich base

The new office is a great space for meeting up with Chamber officials

Chamber export event helps select foreign markets the most promising markets for your business and thoroughly researching those. Focusing on topics such as cultural differences, language barriers and whether there is a need for your product or service.

Keith Jones, Jon Barnes, Tim Hiscock at the Chamber’s latest export event

South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce ran its latest Bi-Monthly Export Club Event at the Hunters Lodge Hotel.

The event, entitled ‘The Market Identification Process’ featured a presentation on Export Strategy and Market Research by Keith Jones of Link Me 2 Export and a case study – Selecting New Markets – by Tim Hiscock of Foot Science International.

The assembled delegates enjoyed refreshments and a chance to network before the presentations started, which helps to create the relaxed atmosphere these events are known for.

Both the presentation and the case study were very interesting, explaining the need to produce a short-list of four to five of

Spring Edition 2014

The presentations were not just a check list of Do’s and Don’ts, each speaker invited discussion and asked the attending businesses to look inward at their company resources; are they getting a lot of queries from a certain country?

And if so, does this mean there is a demand for their product / service there?

Jon Barnes, the Chamber’s International Trade Co-ordinator, said: “The Export Club is always an event to look forward to as it is great to see local businesses interested in exporting. UK companies produce great products and services and it’s a shame that there is such a reluctance to take these ideas abroad.

These events are helping more and more local businesses by informing them of the best ways to enter into international trade.”

For more information on the South Cheshire Chamber Export Club contact Jon Barnes on 01270 504700 extn 21 or jon.barnes@sccci.co.uk www.sccci.co.uk/portal/jon-barnes

Dates for the Diary 2014 Friday 11th April ‘UKTI Export Week’ Event Crewe Hall More Details to Follow Tuesday 22nd April ‘Routes to Market’ Joint with Chester Chamber Times & Venue to follow Tuesday 24th June ‘Selecting/Profiling a Partner’ 8.30am The Hunters Lodge, Crewe, CW1 5LU Tuesday 7th October ‘Setting Prices’ 8.30am The Hunters Lodge, Crewe, CW1 5LU Wednesday 3rd December ‘Open Discussion & Christmas Quiz’ 6.00pm The Hunters Lodge, Crewe, CW1 5LU

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CHAMBER NEWS / MEMBERS NEWS 11

Housing market - things are looking up say lawyers and selling homes after making five new appointments.

Two conveyancing solicitors, Michael Wright and Pat Carlisle, have joined the firm as well as three specialist administration staff.

Hall Smith Whittingham head of conveyancing Steven Coles (centre) with new solicitors Pat Carlisle and Michael Wright and team members Jane Hendley, Sarah Trickett, Claire Hilton, Claire Hickman and Richard Morgan-Wynne - outside the firm’s office at Dysart Buildings, Nantwich

Hall Smith Whittingham has doubled the size of its conveyancing department after a record start to the year.

Buoyancy in the housing market helped by low interest rates and the Government’s Help to Buy scheme, has seen conveyancing transactions soar more than 60% at the South Cheshire firm. Now partners are well placed to handle the spring surge in people buying

Head of conveyancing Steven Coles said: “The last quarter saw our conveyancing team handle a record case load indicating a really positive upturn in the local housing market.

“Some law firms, however, have been reluctant to hire, waiting to see if the upturn is sustainable, but we believe things can only get better.

“Spring is traditionally the time when things take off and we have increased our staffing numbers accordingly. Always our objective is to get people into their new homes as quickly as possible and with minimum stress.”

New developments in Nantwich, including David Wilson Homes at Stapeley and Jones Homes off Welsh Row, have

triggered further demand for services.

But thanks to new technology giving instant access to property information, conveyancing matters can move at a swifter pace – often in as little as six weeks.

He added: “The CW5 area is still our busiest area of business. Homes in Nantwich are moving quickly. Crewe is also benefitting from press reports over the SUV jobs boost at Bentley and the promise of new employment connected to HS2.

“All in all we predict a very healthy growth in the South Cheshire housing market and we have a team poised and ready to deal with the workload. We are not saying ‘boom town’ yet but there are very definite signs of a great recovery.”

For more information buying and selling houses call Hall Smith Whittingham in Crewe on 01270 212000 or Nantwich on 01270 610300

Company creates jobs with new drains division Weaver Vale Housing Trust and is extending its team based in Nantwich to handle the extra workload.

James and Emily Wilkinson of Suddenstrike with new recruits celebrating the new contract with Weaver Vale Housing Trust

A family business is boosting staff numbers after scooping its second major contract with a housing trust.

Suddenstrike made a successful bid to provide specialist drainage services to

The new contract has seen four new staff members appointed and another four are being sought. A fleet of branded vehicles, equipped with drain jetting equipment and CCTV inspection cameras, are ready to race to the scene of outdoor drainage issues for the Trust and any other business or household throughout the region.

The Trust, which has more than 6000 properties round Northwich, Winsford, Frodsham and Tarporley, is just one of Suddenstrike’s bulging portfolio of clients.

They include businesses, country estates, local authorities, landlords and households

throughout the region.

Suddenstrike based on Welshman’s Lane has seen rapid growth over the past five years with the launch of new divisions for specialist cleaning, groundwork and fencing.

It now employs 16 people.

Pest control is still a busy area of work with a team ready to strike when unwanted guests invade including rats, mice, cockroaches, wasps and ants.

For more information on Suddenstrike call 01270 619147 or visit the news drains division website www.cheshiredraincare.co.uk

Horse owners take the reins of new-look product HJ Lea Oakes put customers in the saddle when it came to rebranding a product range for horses.

lovers, they love to show us pictures of their animals and they were delighted to see them become stars of the product rebrand.”

The family business is featuring pictures of horses owned by customers on bags of Equerry feed made at its organic mill.

Edward and his marketing team toured Cheshire snapping pictures of customers’ horses in fields and stables.

The new products include conditioning cubes containing soya, vitamins and minerals to increase muscular strength and performance as well as a ‘cool mix’ with vitamin E to support the immune system and linseed for condition and shine.

were looking for a novel way of updating the packaging.

He added: “Buying direct from the millers allows customers to enjoy great savings without any compromise on the quality. And true to our company ethos, all the Equerry feeds are packed with fine ingredients sourced from crops not subject to genetic modification.”

“We struck on the idea of using horses owned by local customers. Like cat and dog-

For more information on HJ Lea Oakes visit www.hjlea.com

Spokesman Edward Lea said: “Our Equerry range of products has been a staple of the business for many years but just recently we

HJ Lea Oakes staff Claire Lovatt, Paul Dale and Amelia Greenhill with the products featuring customers’ horses

www.sccci.co.uk

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12 MEMBERS NEWS

New look for physiotherapy firm

Success on a plate for joint events

ctchealthcare based in Crewe is the new name for CTC Physiotherapy encompassing all of the different services the company offers in addition to the core physiotherapy and specialist rehabilitation services provided over the past 20 years.

Managing director Rick Carter said: “We’ve aided the recovery of physiotherapy patients over the last two decades and we’ve recently expanded our offering to include corporate health services. Our new brand reflects the caring nature of our business and gives us a great platform for continuing to support our existing clients, whilst providing a fresh approach for the growth of our business to offer new services.”

The company has also launched a new website including information on team members and a media page featuring information videos on how to manage different kinds of injuries or strains using a variety of exercises and stretches.

Launched in 1994, ctchealthcare has six clinics around Cheshire and Staffordshire. Services help companies combat sickness absence, injury and stress.

Andy Leach, Nicola Suckley and Rick Carter directors of the newly-branded ctchealthcare

For more information call ctchealthcare on 01270 588244

Andrew Hague of Howard Worth and Scott Harding of Poole Alcock present Come Dine with Us proceeds to Jessica Wilkes-Reading of St Luke’s Hospice

Keen cooks from Poole Alcock and Howard Worth gave a £3,500 cash boost to St Luke’s Hospice after taking part in a Come Dine With Us event at Residence in Nantwich.

They prepared a four-course dinner from scratch for 62 guests and Andrew Hague from Howard Worth and Scott Harding of Poole Alcock were thrilled their culinary efforts made such a bumper sum.

The amateur chefs felt the pace of a professional kitchen, preparing spicy parsnip soup, potato salad topped with salmon and prawns, pork stroganoff and a key lime pie.

Google focuses on snapper’s talent Crewe-based photographer Johnathan Clover of Cloverleaf Images has been accepted by Google to become one of an elite group of “Google Trusted Photographers” which allows him to take ‘Google Business Photos’ - a service recently provided to Crewe Lyceum allowing the public to look inside the theatre online.

Tracey Cooke and Gill Fox of KidzKitchen were winners of the Dabbers Den competition

Meanwhile the businesses have honoured winners of their 2nd Dabbers Den competition – KidzKitchen which provides educational and fun cookery classes and parties for children.

The new concept by Google essentially takes their “street view” indoors and allows the public to look inside a business allowing them to walk round and explore.

Johnathan said: “I am delighted to be one of the few Google Trusted Photographers in the North West. It’s a great opportunity for businesses to show off their facilities - for instance, in shops customers can browse the merchandise, in salons they can have a look at the treatment rooms and for accommodation they can see the bedrooms.”

Howard Worth partner Mike Doherty said: “This year we had a record number of entries, which included some great new trading businesses and also some entrepreneurial business ideas.”

Crewe Lyceum Theatre photographed by Johnathan Clover of Cloverleaf Images

His work with the Lyceum allowed the theatre to show off its new look. Gemma Whalley, marketing manager, said: “Research had shown that many previous customers were not aware of the vast improvements made when the theatre changed management. Now everyone can see the theatre’s beauty and elegance in its entirety – not a feat managed by a simple photograph. “ For more information on Cloverleaf services call 01270 589160

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Scott Harding, partner at Poole Alcock, added: “We were extremely impressed with Gill and Tracey of Kidzkitchen. Their passion for their business really shone through. We look forward to supporting them as business mentors alongside Howard Worth Accountants and are excited to see where their business will progress to.”

For more information on Howard Worth visit www.howardworth.co.uk and for Poole Alcock visit www.poolealcock.co.uk

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MEMBERS NEWS 13

Mum’s the word for ESTC A family support charity has won backing from a Nantwich company and its awardwinning owner.

Home-Start in Crewe is being backed by Eileen Williams and her event security, training and consultancy business ESTC.

hardest jobs in the world - looking after children.

“I’ve been at the sharp end of motherhood and understand how hard it can be to juggle business and family commitments.

The single mum-of-five is helping the charity raise its profile and improve its business administration and funding functions.

Since founding ESTC eight years ago, the former Crewe Alexandra FC steward has advised on security at major sporting venues worldwide and was a lead consultant on safety at last summer’s Olympics in London.

She said: “I felt compelled to offer my help to Home-Start which does a great job supporting local mums handle one of the

“With my children all fully grown and my business doing well, I was delighted to have an opportunity to ‘give back’ by offering my expertise to Home-Start.”

Home-Start helps parents of young children tackle anything life throws at them including isolation, depression and housing issues. ESTC is helping the charity bid for funding while offering users training as part of its NVQ learning scheme in leisure, travel and tourism.

Ms Williams added: “Acquiring the skills to get a job can often be the make or break to mothers struggling home-alone. ESTC is delighted to give them access to vital workplace skills.”

ESTC’s Eileen Williams (centre) with Clare Robinson and Sandra Tatton of Home-Start in Crewe

For more information on ESTC call 01270 626663

Accountants appoint leading North West Tax Director

Nick Harrop is welcomed to Afford Bond by senior partner Gary Greer

Nantwich-based Afford Bond LLP has welcomed Tax Director Nick Harrop from Grant Thornton. Nick has joined the existing eight partners and is relishing his

new role in Cheshire and the surrounding regions.

changed and this has led to excellent client retention.”

Senior partner Gary Greer commented: “This is an exciting and significant appointment for us. Afford Bond has continued to grow throughout the difficult economic climate of the past five years which is testament to the quality of service and advice clients receive.

Nick has more than 20 years experience covering all aspects of UK and International Tax. In recent years he has gained significant experience in corporate restructuring, remuneration planning, property tax, business tax and private client work. His technical experience has in the past led to roles within national tax groups and he has been a regular contributor to top industry press.

“The way in which services are delivered ensures personal contact with significant partner involvement along with support from a strong and experienced team of professionals. We have tailored our services as our clients’ businesses and issues have

For more information of services provided by Afford Bond call 01270 623731

Company aims to banish legal bother and boost jobs A Crewe company is hoping to breathe new life into the South Cheshire jobs market by helping businesses take on staff without fear of legal hassle.

“As a result the ‘one-man-band’ struggles on alone for fear of any legal complications should they employ and things don’t work out.

Employment law specialists Magenta say complex legislation and fear of dispute makes sole traders and small firms reluctant to hire.

“We hope to take that worry away and give even the smallest business the chance to expand and create jobs for local people.”

Contracts are tailored to include terms and conditions such as pay, hours of work, deductions, sickness, notice period and conduct at work.

Magenta Minimum has already triggered more than 50 enquiries since it was launched at New Year.

Now the family business has launched Magenta Minimum, a division specialising in one-off employment contracts for businesses such as shops, market traders and sole traders looking for an extra pair of hands.

The company, based on Crewe Business Park, also offers health and safety assessments and HR services. It supports the Plain English campaign in all areas of its business.

Senior partner Dave Roberts said: “Employment law is fraught with danger if you don’t have a contract in place. Claims can be costly and things are often stacked in the employee’s favour.

For more information on Magenta Minimum call 01270 849197 Dave Roberts has launched Magenta Minimum to help small companies create new jobs

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

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14 MEMBERS NEWS

Grants help businesses find a Smarter Way to Travel The partnership aims to enable people living and working in Crewe to make smarter travel choices. As part of the LSTF programme, Clair Visco has been engaging with local businesses and asking them to pinpoint their own transport problems, such as insufficient parking or a location that is not easily accessed by public transport.

MMU staff at the monthly Cycle to Work breakfast, encouraging staff to get on their bikes

Now grant funding is available to help companies implement sustainable travel measures. The first tranche of awards has just been made, with several Chamber patrons and members benefitting from the available grants.

Cheshire East Council and the South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry are working together to deliver FREE Business Travel Planning support to employers in Crewe through the Smarter Travel Partnership.

Manchester Metropolitan University’s Crewe campus has been awarded a ‘Smarter Ways to Travel’ Business Travel Planning grant to install secure, covered cycle storage in high demand areas around the campus. It is hoped that this, together with regular

promotional activity, will encourage more people to cycle.

Andy Taylor, MMU’s Travel Plan Manager, said ‘The University is actively promoting sustainable travel and this funding helps us to remove the barriers stopping people from cycling to Campus. Not only will this help to alleviate traffic problems in the vicinity, but it will help to improve the health and wellbeing of students, staff and visitors’.

Other successful applicants were - Cheshire Bespoke, Christian Concern, Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Trust (Leighton Hospital), South Cheshire College, Storage Boost (Crewe) Ltd and the Up and Under Group.

Further grants will be allocated by the end of the financial year, with more funds available in 2014/15.

For more information contact Clair Visco on 01270 504 700

Country offices create a buzz with superfast broadband Park View Business Centre located on the Combermere Estate between Nantwich and Whitchurch on the A530, has successfully introduced superfast broadband into its rural based offices.

The new fibre optic link, available after private investment, currently provides connectivity of 50Mbs – as good as any city or urban location.

Peter Beckett, CEO of Park View Business Centre, said: “The introduction of superfast broadband is vital to sustainable rural business expansion. Businesses want speed and reliability to compete in the

21st century.

“It became clear that this area of South Cheshire would miss out on BT’s Infinity roll-out programme. Also, dealings with Connecting Cheshire, for DEFRA support via the Rural Broadband Community Fund, have also failed to deliver any firm dates or positive outcome.

“The opportunity to achieve the best connectivity in a timely way was by pursuing an initiative with Netserve (via the Fibrespeed network) and by making the financial commitment ourselves.’

Park View Business Centre has just completed a third phase of development bringing the total number of offices to 27 since it opened three years ago.

Administrator Tina Hayward said: “Current tenant businesses cover a diverse range of sectors – from independent start-ups, to communications businesses and agricultural services. We anticipate a growth of more small and medium sized companies using us in the near future.

There is definitely a buzz about the place.”

Further information visit www.parkviewbusinesscentre.co.uk.

Hospital looks set to unveil ultra modern facilities Theatres and Intensive Care Unit is nearing completion and is set to treat its first patients. Improvements to the Outpatients Hall, due to start in April, will see the main waiting area updated and refreshed.

Works are underway to improve the main entrance at Leighton Hospital.

The current entrance canopy is being replaced by a modern glass-fronted facade which will include an 80-seater café alongside a new shop run by the hospital’s League of Friends.

A new ATM cash machine will also be installed as part of the works, whilst the bicycle shelter currently outside the main entrance will be relocated onsite.

The current main entrance at Leighton Hospital

The annual survey is widely recognised as an important way of ensuring that the views of staff working in the NHS can influence improvements both locally and nationally.

Whilst the works are taking place, temporary shop, café and toilet facilities have been provided in the courtyard area opposite the current temporary entrance.

The refurbishment, set to last until June, is the latest in a series of building projects taking place at Chamber member Leighton Hospital.

The proposed main entrance at Leighton Hospital

Work on the new multi-million pound

Spring Edition 2014

Meanwhile the Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is celebrating a higher than the national average in a number of key performance areas, according to the results of the latest national NHS Staff Survey.

MCHFT had a huge response rate of 70% which is the second highest nationally for Acute Trusts and is the highest that the Trust has ever received. A key commendation came from staff who underline care of patients as the organisation’s top priority.

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MEMBERS NEWS

Special honour for charity stalwart

15

Unique centre nears completion

Cheshire Academy co-founder Jane Whetnall has picked up a Royal honour for her contribution and work in the field of disability sport.

Jane helped set up the charity over 20 years ago and it has since grown to become one of the most well respected disability sports organisations in the country, working with children and young adults with physical, sensory or learning disabilities.

Jane Whetnall MBE

Jane has helped train gymnasts, rhythmic gymnasts, sports acrobatic gymnasts, boccia players and table tennis players up to national European and world standard. She has also recently been chosen as head rhythmic gymnastics Coach for Team GB at the XIV World special Olympic games to be held in Los Angeles in 2015.

Her role also includes working with young children with disabilities and behavioural difficulties. Jane assists with the development of individual programmes which will help children to walk and become more mobile and develops methods of communication which will maximise their learning potential.

Jane travelled down to Buckingham Palace on March 18 to receive her MBE. The Cheshire Academy has recently relocated to the former Broad Street Junior School in Crewe.

For further information call 01270 255355

A fresh look and special offer to business

St Luke’s Hospice president Arthur Freeman and matron Siobhan Horton at the Centre of Excellence topping out ceremony.

Picture courtesy of Pure PR

South Cheshire people will soon have access to ultra modern hospice facilities on their doorstep.

St Luke’s £1m Centre of Excellence is now nearing completion on a countryside site near Sandbach after gaining tremendous support from local businesses.

Officials gathered for a topping out ceremony at Wheelock Heath Business Park. They say the facility, unique to the North West, will be ready to receive its first patients this summer.

The centre will offer local people suffering from all life-limiting conditions - including cancer, dementia and Parkinson’s Disease - access to treatment as well as counselling and therapeutic activities on a day care basis.

Hospice president Arthur Freeman, of Holmes Chapel, said: “Just a few short months ago we had a dream of a hospice facility not only providing day treatment, but training in all areas of end-of-life care, and here we are almost ready to receive the keys. The Centre of Excellence will offer all the care and dedication currently available at our Winsford hospice, but without bed provision, and will be a huge asset to this area of the county.”

South Cheshire business, PA Today, is celebrating its 2nd birthday with a new logo and website.

To help equip the centre, a spring ball is to be staged at the stunning arts and crafts country home of TV celebrity Phil Redmond at Tarporley on May 9. Tables are available to local businesses.

Owner Pam Allen enlisted the help of another local company, Bare Bones Marketing, to refresh the PA Today brand and develop a new enhanced customer-friendly website.

For more information call appeal co-ordinator Martha Hine on 01606 555685

She said: “After 30 years working in various industries, I had developed a real understanding of the kind of support that can make the difference to a successful business, and that’s why I launched PA Today. Our services have expanded over the last two years, and I am pleased to say we are now supporting some great clients including start-ups, sole traders and consultants as well as small and medium sized enterprises.”

PA Today offers a wide range of business support services from diary management, database management and transcription, through to complete office and process reorganisation. A bespoke training package has also been launched to help increase the effectiveness of a business.

To celebrate the rebrand PA Today is offering three businesses the opportunity to enjoy half a day’s pro bono support. To win the chance of support from PA Today send details of your most tiresome business task to pa@patodayuk.co.uk

Young Apprentice Challenge 2014 St Luke's has launched its Young Apprentice Challenge 2014 and needs schools and businesses to get on board.

Officials are looking for teams of five young people aged 14-16 to come up with a business idea that will raise money for the hospice. Each team will be given £100 and all the help, support and advice from local businesses on how to make the most out of their budget.

Each member from the winning team will receive an iPad each and their school will also win excellent prizes.

To get involved please email jwilkes-reading@stlukes-hospice.co.uk or call 01606 555488

Remember to include your company contact information

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

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16 MEMBERS NEWS

Charity races ahead with garage support A car dealership is steering a charity towards success in Crewe with its second major donation.

The family-run Swansway Group has presented £2,000 to Beanstalk, a national literacy charity that recruits, trains and supports volunteers to work in primary schools with children who have fallen behind with their reading.

That came hot on the heels of £2,000 handed to the charity by company director David Smyth just before Christmas.

Area fundraising manager Gail Washington said: “We met David at a business networking event at Crewe Hall last autumn when we explained our aims of wanting to support more children in the town.

Beanstalk area fundraising manager Gail Washington receiving a cheque from David Smyth of Swansway

“Since our meeting Swansway has shown us tremendous support donating a grand sum of £4,000 which will help us offer one-toone reading support for 20 children in Crewe. This donation will allow these children to develop their self-confidence through literacy. They can progress in their

education and realise their full potential in life.”

David Smyth, who runs the business with his father and two brothers, said: “Between us we have seven children of varying ages and we all recall the pleasure of sharing books with them when they were young.

“Learning to read is quite a magical thing and opens up the world to children and we believe Beanstalk is vital in helping children to access this special world. We share its vision of a nation of confident children who can read and thus grow up to lead successful lives.”

Anyone who can offer help as a Beanstalk reading volunteer in Crewe is asked to call Gail Washington on 07841 504423

Bookshop draws a big crowd

Denise Lawson of Nantwich Bookshop serves lobster bisque while Graeme Simsion signs a copy of The Rosie Project for book-lover Kath Hill

Literary fans turned out in force to a book signing by an author whose romantic tale about life, love and lobster is topping the charts.

Meanwhile the shop has launched a BringA-Book scheme which targets people who buy a book from any shop, read it once, and then give it away.

Australian writer Graeme Simsion drew a big crowd to Nantwich Bookshop which stages regular events for customers to meet famous authors. His book, The Rosie Project, tells the heart-warming tale of a middle-aged man’s search for love hindered by Asperger's Syndrome.

Anyone donating a book to the shop will receive a cuppa or soft drink – or they can opt to donate the cost to St Luke’s new hospice facility at Wheelock.

For more information on the book scheme call Steve Lawson on 01270 611665

Hotel celebrates £1m revamp with open day Ostler Restaurant has enhanced the look of the 17th century oak-beamed farmhouse which sits at the heart of the hotel.

General manager Jayne Chapman said: “We used local contractors for the hotel renovation and also for the landscaping of our grounds and gardens. The Open Day in April will be the perfect opportunity for local people to see the results of their work.”

Best Western Manor House Hotel in Alsager (pictured) began 2014 in spectacular style with a £1 million renovation and is holding an Open Day on April 2 to celebrate its completion.

Its public areas are now transformed with a lounge-style reception foyer and new meeting rooms with WiFi technology. The Wedding Suite has had a complete makeover and both the Stables Bar and

Shortlisted for Cheshire Large Hotel of the Year 2013, this latest investment comes hot on the heels of the completion in November of refurbishment to each of the privately owned hotel’s 57-bedrooms. All rooms now have new beds, new bathrooms and new furnishings, and facilities include flatscreen digital television and Apple-device docking stations for iPad/iPod/iPhone.

To receive more information and your personal invitation to the brand new Best Western Manor House Hotel Open Day on April 2 email Steve Alty at sales@manorhousealsager.com

Spring Edition 2014

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MEMBERS NEWS

Business raises money to keep RNLI afloat

17

Slimmers shed pounds to raise them

County Insurance has once again ‘pushed the boat out’ for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution by holding a charity fundraising day at its HQ in Crewe.

Staff made donations to the charity to wear their nauticalcoloured or ‘sailor style’ outfits to work. There were also cakes on sale throughout the day, games and a raffle which helped bump up the total money raised to an impressive £472.26.

John Lawson, one of County Insurance’s longest-serving members of staff, organised the day as the RNLI’s Congleton branch chairman.

Personal trainer Tim Rosiek with his top ten super slimmers

John and Sandra Lawson lead the RNLI fundraising

He said: “The RNLI is an excellent charity committed to saving lives at sea. It does not receive government funding and relies purely on 40,000 volunteers and fundraising to help provide this crucial service.

County Insurance has supported the cause by carrying out activities for several years now and we’re extremely grateful of that.”

County Insurance – part of the County Group – has experienced rapid growth in recent years but regularly tries to ‘give a little something back’ by taking part in fundraising events. Towards the end of last year, the Board of Directors held a charity golf day in aid of Barry’s Project 150 which raised £3,295 for the Young Oncology Unit at The Christie. The company has also been involved in fundraising for well-known charities like Comic Relief and Think Pink.

Super-slimmers are celebrating a record weight loss and bumper sum raised for charity. More than 90 local people from across the area were put through their paces on the Live Young diet and exercise programme led by personal trainer Tim Rosiek.

Their combined weight loss of 1,635lbs was a record for Tim, a new Chamber member, and he staged a party to congratulate them. The former British body building champion said: “Life’s stresses and strains can make it difficult to focus on training and sticking to a healthy diet so I wanted to reward all my clients, particularly those who have achieved weight loss against the odds.”

Clients have taken part in fundraisers organised by the trainer and an autumn Race for Life event at Trentham for Cancer Research, raising more than £2,000.

Now Tim, based at Simply Gym in Crewe, is getting a team together for a summer event.

For more on Tim’s Live Young diet and exercise programme call him on 07876 655644

For more information on County Insurance call 0800 980 3466

Radio pledges to support community despite Ofcom blow Ofcom, the Office of Communications, has taken the decision to not award the FM Community Radio Licence for Crewe & Nantwich to RedShift Radio.

The decision was met with huge disappointment from the 73 volunteers that dedicate their time to helping RedShift become a voice for the communities of South Cheshire.

Station director Liz Southall said “Ofcom decided that our application was not the strongest for the local FM licence. Their reasons are, we feel, rather unjust as they cited that due to the lack of grant funding we have received during our first three years we have not evidenced that we would be able to attract the necessary levels of future grant funding to sustain ourselves.

“However our annual income has consistently been higher than that of the media income for the community radio sector without even being on FM so it stands to reason that by being on FM our reach and therefore income would certainly increase.”

RedShift says it has an exciting Plan B that will continue to support the business, charity and education communities of South Cheshire and beyond.

To keep up to date with the RedShift developments, attend one of their popular Hub Community Networking events or listen online, visit www.redshiftradio.co.uk

www.sccci.co.uk

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18 ADVERTORIAL

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MEMBERS NEWS 19

Couple celebrate moving experience A special treat awaited a Crewe couple when they came to sign for a new rented home with Martin&Co. John Douglas, who works in security, and nursery nurse Laura Cookson, not only got the keys for their new house in Coppenhall, but also a fanfare and bottle of wine to celebrate being the property firm’s 700th new tenancy in a single year.

rental market. “It’s good to see evidence that the team’s hard work and service ethic is being appreciated by our landlord and investor clients, and we will be recruiting more staff in 2014 to meet increased demand for our services.”

For more information on Martin&Co call the Crewe office on 01270 500905 or Nantwich 01270 611333

Director Shaun Cafferty said the firm was now responsible for a huge slice of the local

Splash hit event returns to Audlem

Chamber member Overwater Marina is planning another action-packed event to raise money for the RNLI. The water-based business is hosting the Audlem RNLI Festival over the weekend of May 31-June 1.

It kicks off on Saturday evening with an exciting Cowboy Shoot Out by the Lincoln County Regulators. There will be an exciting Irish Dance performance from The Fraser School of Irish Dance, musical entertainment from local up and coming bands and then California Blue will play into the night with a popular mix of retro 60s and 70s hits.

water rescues and promoting water safety.

Sunday will be a fun family day with the return of the ever-popular ‘around the island’ raft race, with homemade rafts promising some entertaining competition from local teams.

Over the last three years the Audlem Lass Boat Service with the assistance of Overwater Marina has raised over £12,000 for the RNLI.

Cheshire’s services including Fire & Rescue, Police and Police Divers will demonstrate

There will be a chance to learn about boat handling and try your hand at a free coarse fishing class.

Other fun activities include farm tractor rides, pony rides, falconry displays, a dog agility show, tug of war, duck racing and hula hooping contests.

For more information visit www.overwatermarina.co.uk

www.sccci.co.uk

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20 PATRONS

BENTLEY Record profits at luxury car factory turnover, with a total export value of £1.23 billion. This continued into 2014, with global deliveries to customers growing by 13% to 1,408 cars by the end of February.

Bentley Motors has seen a significant growth in profit and turnover - its strongest ever performance. Operating profit improved to a record £139.7, up 66.9% on the 2012 figure of £83.7m. Turnover grew by 15.5% to £1.40 billion - the highest in Bentley’s history.

Success across the globe gathered pace, with exports contributing to 88% of total

Chairman and Chief Executive, Dr Wolfgang Schreiber, said: “We will continue to make sure that Bentley meets the changing needs of our discerning customers. Just two weeks ago we introduced the new Continental GT Speed and the new V8 Flying Spur.

“In 2016 we will offer the first SUV in the luxury sector and one year later we will bring plug-in-hybrid technology into the luxury market. We are on the back of a record year and given the start we have made to 2014, we are confident that Bentley

will have another good year, with strong growth.”

Bentley delivered more cars than ever before in 2013, 10,120 cars, a global growth of 19% over the 2012 figure of 8,510 cars.

The US remains Bentley’s largest market, followed by China and Europe. In the UK, Bentley also performed extremely well, taking 14% of global deliveries, while the increasingly important Middle East region delivered 12% of the 10,120 cars.

To the end of 2013, Bentley had 193 dealerships. This is expected to increase to 220 by the end of 2014.

Bentley carries off top employer accolade Communications, Manufacturing and Human Resources, all of which combine on the job training with academic qualifications.

Bentley Motors has been named as one of Britain’s Top Employers for the third year running by the Top Employers Institute. Its dedication to the personal development, working environment and employee culture of the 3,700 colleagues who work at the Crewe headquarters was particularly praised.

Bentley’s nationally recognised apprenticeship programme, which develops new talent within the business, was a strong contributing factor in the Top Employers’ assessment of employee development

The award closely follows Bentley’s record sales year in 2013, in which 10,120 cars were delivered, a 19% increase on 2012 and the highest number ever in the company’s 95year history, firmly underlining its position as the number one luxury car brand in the world. opportunities. 62 apprentices are currently employed at Bentley, working in a variety of areas including Engineering, Marketing,

For more information on Bentley Motors call 01270 255155 or visit www.bentleymotors.com

MANCHESTER METROPOLITAN UNIVERSITY “Social responsibility is key” says Camelot CEO Dianne Thompson Crewe, Dianne (pictured) who is Chancellor of the University and CEO of National Lottery operator Camelot, told guests that “Social responsibility is key to everything we do.”

She said that treating staff like family has always been at the core of Britain’s best small businesses and most enduring big businesses, citing John Lewis and Marks and Spencer as examples.

Businesswoman Dianne Thompson, CBE, has urged firms to think of their workers as family, conduct themselves with integrity and help unemployed and disadvantaged people build a future for themselves.

Speaking at an event at the Manchester Metropolitan University Cheshire campus, in

Spring Edition 2014

She said: “Staff know they can come to me personally to talk through ideas, or if there are things they aren’t happy about or want to change. I may not always agree but it sends a message that I’ll always listen carefully and that what’s right for the company is something that everyone should have a say on.”

More than 70 top Cheshire business leaders attended the event, which was hosted by MMU Pro-Vice Chancellor Dennis Dunn.

Dianne, who was speaking ahead of her retirement from Camelot next year, where she has been CEO for more than 13 years, said that in future, businesses must help the NEETs generation (Not in Education, Employment or Training).

She gave the example of the Watford Works scheme which is backed by Camelot and offers four-week training courses. The scheme has seen 85% of those who have taken the courses move from welfare into sustainable employment.”

For more information on MMU courses at Crewe call 0161 247 2000

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REASEHEATH International recognition for Food Centre internationally-recognised British Consortium (BRC) certification.

Retail

The £7million Food Centre has been awarded a Grade A BRC - the highest possible quality mark within the food industry’s global standard for food safety.

Reaseheath Food Technologists Jane Gilman, Andrea Winkler, Laura Broome and Penny Masters and Technical Manager Katharina Vogt (centre) show off their BRC accreditation in the college’s processing halls

Reaseheath College’s Food Centre has become the first and only educational institution in Britain to achieve an

The unique certification was approved after a robust two day audit showed that the department’s food manufacturing systems were operating under highly controlled conditions and to the highest industry standards. Areas inspected included hygiene procedures, cleanliness of the facility, food safety controls, quality systems and the traceability of food ingredients.

Food Centre Head Toni-Anne Harrison said: “This certification will lead to increased exposure to blue chip companies, many of which are already clients and partners, and this will create enormous opportunities for our students. It will also further strengthen Reaseheath College’s reputation for being at the forefront of teaching and learning within the food sector.”

Reaseheath’s Food Centre was opened in 2011 and is one of the best equipped food processing teaching and practical facilities in Europe.

For further details see www.reaseheathfoodcentre.com

The accolade is particularly prestigious as many food businesses strive, but never achieve, the elusive BRC standard at Grade A.

SOUTH CHESHIRE COLLEGE College launches Leadership and Mentoring training scheme Small businesses can make the most of the latest enterprising training package which gets underway at South Cheshire College in April.

The qualification can help employers by increasing productivity, preparing employees for promotion and helping employees to become effective team leaders.

The tailored programme consists of short FREE qualifications in Leadership and Team Skills and Mentoring. It kicks off on April 24 with sessions every Thursday evening (6-9pm) for 16 weeks.

Neil Smith, Contracts and Development Manager at the College, said: “These short exciting qualifications are a must for any small business.

Employees can gain additional qualifications which can help them go from strength-to-strength in the workplace and boost the productivity and overall performance of a business.”

It is ideal for employees over 19 who currently work for a small business (employing less than 250 people) offering them a chance to learn core leadership and management skills.

For more information call Neil Smith on 01270 654654 ext 817

The Leadership and Mentoring package is ideal for small businesses

Apprentice cooks up a treat at country pub South Cheshire College apprentice Dom Mifsud (pictured) is aiming to reach the top in the catering world after helping to transform the fortunes of a popular country pub and restaurant.

and apprenticeships but couldn’t see anything initially but then I spotted the apprenticeship at South Cheshire College.

Since I signed up for it I’ve never looked back.”

His creative culinary skills have made a big impression at The Bull Inn at Shocklach, near Wrexham. He combines working there with attending college once a week as part of his Chef apprenticeship.

Dom is learning new dishes, recipes and skills under the guidance of College Chef Lecturer Ron Knox and will gain a qualification at the end of the programme.

Avid skier Dom, 21, said: “I did some part time work in a restaurant kitchen over in the French Alps during a ski season last year and I really got the taste for cooking.

For more information about Apprenticeships or hospitality and catering courses at South Cheshire College, call 01270 654654 or visit www.scc.ac.uk

“When I came back from the trip, I looked around for hospitality and catering courses

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22 PATRONS

MORNFLAKE Celebrities to help judge Mornflake contest Perfect porridge-makers are being sought to help Mornflake take honours in a quirky contest.

Bunbury Water Mill will be the venue for Mornflake’s Big Stir Off event

Keen cooks are being invited to enter their ‘oat cuisine’ recipes to Mornflake as the firm prepares to do battle in this year’s Golden Spurtle porridge championships in Scotland.

represent Mornflake before an international audience at this year’s Golden Spurtle porridge-making championships on October 4.”

The Mornflake Great British Porridge Challenge will see top TV chef Simon Rimmer and famous blogger, Anna-Louise Batchelor, aka The Porridge Lady, judge entries at The Big Stir Off event at Bunbury Water Mill on April 5.

The winner will receive an all-expenses trip to the championships at Carrbridge where porridge-makers from across the world will compete for the trophy named after the old Scottish stirring utensil.

Spokeswoman Catherine Sadler said: “We are asking local people to share their porridge recipes with us. It can be porridge made in their own special way or a special dish containing our locally-milled oats. Our top entrant will showcase their recipe and

They will also receive a meal for two at Simon Rimmer's award-winning Cheshire restaurant, Earle, hosted by the master chef himself.

For terms and conditions visit www.mornflake.com

Consumers go potty for new product A product launch by Mornflake is causing quite a stir with commuters.

The famous porridge-maker is proving a big hit with its Superfast Cereal Pots which are being sold in supermarkets after months of research and design in the firm’s Crewe creative kitchen.

Marketing manager Richard Jones said: “What’s ‘magic’ about our Mornflake Superfast pots is they contain an ingredient which becomes a refreshing milk when you simply add cold water.

Chloe Myers, 18, enjoys a Superfast Cereal Pot at a tasting session with Mornflake ambassador Chloe Butcher and marketing manager Richard Jones in Waitrose, Sandbach

“Most people carry a bottle of water around, especially when travelling, so already they are popular with commuters.

“It means they can enjoy a wholesome breakfast while on the move. The feedback on Twitter and Facebook has been excellent.”

The pots, which are being sold through Waitrose, have a special patented lid which holds a plastic spoon. They come in a range of flavours including Fruit & Nut Muesli, Fruit & Fibre, Raisin, Honey & Almond Granola and Sultana & Apple Oatbran Flakes.

Tasting sessions are underway at more than 100 Waitrose stores around the country, including Sandbach.

SG WORLD SG on TV managers are always delighted to spot one.

The latest cameo was in a re-run of Sky 1’s Inside Gatwick documentary following the daily activities of Gatwick’s staff during the £1 billion airport refurbishment in 2013.

Appearing in Episode 3 – Baggage, our hi-vis inspection status wallet is clearly in shot as the engineering team are under pressure to fix a faulty baggage belt, whilst using an electric boom to access the equipment.

Unless you are responsible for Health and Safety or Facilities Management in your building, you may not have heard of SG World.

day. Whenever you sign in at a reception desk, enter a school, warehouse or construction site our visitor management and safety compliance solutions are most likely there in the background, helping over twenty thousand organisations across the UK.

Nevertheless you probably see our products in action every week, maybe every

Consequently our products often crop up on TV and our eagle-eyed account

Spring Edition 2014

“We provide inspection solutions to a number of airports across the UK,” said Richard Nichols, SG World Head of Sales.

“The Inside Gatwick documentary really highlights the huge impact of any equipment downtime at a busy airport. When you have to keep thousands of passengers on the move, your maintenance teams need safety systems that are quick and simple to use.”

For more information on SG World products visit www.sgworld.com

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WULVERN Investing in people brings Gold success Wulvern has achieved the prestigious Gold level at its first Investors in People assessment, acknowledging achievement of world-class best practice and representing a cutting-edge organisation operating at the very highest levels of people management practice.

Now part of the exclusive 7% of Investors in People in the country that have achieved Gold accreditation, Wulvern is also one of only a handful of organisations that have achieved the Gold award at their first assessment.

Sue Lock with the Gold Investors in People award

The golden accolade recognises the organisation for going above and beyond in the way it develops, supports and motivates its 240 employees.

The accreditation process involved individual interviews with a number of Wulvern colleagues during December. Celebrating the company’s achievement with employees, Chief Executive Sue Lock said: “This prestigious accolade demonstrates Wulvern’s excellence in investing in staff, developing people and creating a positive, supportive culture in which to work.”

Wulvern is Best!

Crewe-based housing association Wulvern has been acknowledged as a ‘very good’ employer for a second year by workplace engagement specialists Best Companies and has been named as one of The Sunday Times 100 Best NotFor-Profit Organisations to Work For. Best Companies Accreditation, which recognises excellence in the workplace, follows the elite ‘Michelin style’ star rating system based on employee responses to a series of questions designed to examine the components of a happy and successful workplace, such as a company’s ability to provide leadership, wellbeing and personal growth, as well as canvassing people’s views on their management, colleagues and happiness.

Sue Lock, Chief Executive of Wulvern, said: “Receiving this ‘kite mark’ recognises that Wulvern is investing in the wellbeing and motivation of our most valuable assets: our employees, helping us recruit and retain ‘the Best’.

At Wulvern we work together as one big team to make a positive difference.”

For more information on Wulvern visit www.wulvern.org.uk

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24 ADVERTISING

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MEMBERS NEWS/CHAMBER NEWS 25

‘There’s no better place to do business’ Cheshire East Council Chief Executive, Mike Suarez Cheshire East Council, although fairly rural with ‘area of outstanding natural beauty’ status, is as business-buoyant as they come.

Mike Suarez

Pro-growth, innovative and ambitious, the authority, the third largest unitary authority in the North West, is the friend of businesses large and small. It’s a great place to invest and deserves the newly-crowned title of ‘best place to live in the North West’.

The South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce continues to be a key partner in ensuring that local businesses, in Cheshire East, some 17,500 including 1,800 new start-ups are given the best tools and knowledge to innovate and succeed.

The Borough couldn’t be better placed - only 12 miles from south Manchester, 8 miles from junction 6 of the M56 motorway and just 15 minutes from Manchester International Airport, with access to over 240 destinations. We have the greatest number of businesses within any North West unitary or district authority and serve as the headquarters of around 10 per cent of the North West’s top 200 companies.

Hot off the press, the authority has been recognised by the public sector’s Improvement and Efficiency Awards (iESE) as leading the

way, receiving a bronze award for our broadband role out and a gold award for ‘best fit’ as a commissioning council.

And businesses are benefitting from the Council’s continued success and key projects, which include the Local Plan – a strategic and highly-consultative document that will boost jobsled growth up to 2030, while protecting the rural aspect of the county; our bid for HS2 in Crewe and a once-in-a-generation chance to reinvent the town as a 360-degree transport connector; a multi-million pound lifestyle centre for Crewe, ensuring the life chances of people are improved and that the next generation are active and healthy; more than £800m worth of road infrastructure projects that will ensure the Borough is on the move. All of these spell jobs and more inward investment.

As the economy strengthens so does our determination to emerge a stronger and better Borough fit for the 21st century.

The Council, as a strategic commissioning authority, will be looking to our local businesses for exciting new ways to deliver services.

Increasingly, our services and dealings will be online and so we happen to be at the forefront of the £31.4m Connecting Cheshire project – one of the fastest roll-outs of fibre broadband in the country. 96 per cent of homes and businesses will have access to high-speed broadband by next year.

So my message is if you’re already doing business here in Cheshire East, then stay with us and reap the rewards and if you haven’t yet ventured – there’s no better place to do business.

Membership soars at gym

Simply Gym owner Andy Tee and staff celebrate the centre’s first anniversary

A gym company celebrated its first anniversary in Crewe by installing £20,000 of new fitness equipment.

ethos is to make gym training affordable to all, without stressful contracts that bind you to a membership like a mortgage.

Simply Gym, a new Chamber member, has seen membership rocket to more than 3000 at the West Street site.

Throughout the week there are classes including spinning, body pump, body combat and circuits.

The investment has been in state-of-the art equipment including Power Plates and weight resistance machines.

For more information on membership call Simply Gym on 01270 252445

General manager Kate Dingle said: “Our

John nets prestigious football accolade One of the most well-known names in local football has been honoured with a top award.

Football Award at The Football League Awards 2014.

Chamber President Mr Bowler received the award - the highest bestowed by the Board of The Football League - at the gala ceremony in London in front of more than 600 guests.

Since joining the club’s Board of Directors in 1980, it has won promotion on five occasions, including two Play-Off Finals at Wembley as well as lifting last season's Johnstone's Paint Trophy.

Football League Chief Executive Shaun Harvey presents Chamber President John Bowler with his award

Crewe Alexandra Chairman John Bowler was presented with the Contribution to League

The Gresty Road side has also carried off a Fair Play Award 15 times and generated more than £32m of income through player sales, allowing further investment in young footballers.

He said: "I played football at a local level, playing for a Nottingham Forest nursery side,

but decided to go into pharmacy as a career so that ruined my playing days as I had to work on Saturdays, but I always kept my interest by watching games when I could.

"Being Chairman of Crewe Alexandra is such a rewarding job. Our whole ethos is to develop enthusiastic young players. To be able to nurture them and see them flourish is great."

The Contribution to League Football is The Football League's most prestigious award.

Chief Executive Shaun Harvey said: "John has set the benchmark for prudent, wise and successful stewardship of a professional football club. In doing so, his club has become one of the most widely admired in the domestic game.”

www.sccci.co.uk

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26 CHAMBER NEWS/ADVERTISING

Minister weighs up Crewe superhub bid

Crewe and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson with Baroness Kramer at Crewe Station

Transport Minister Baroness Kramer paid a visit to Crewe Railway Station ahead of a final announcement on HS2.

The minister was taken on a tour of the current station as well as the proposed site of the HS2 superhub, south of the current station.

The Liberal Democrat Peer praised the “passion” of Cheshire East Council leader Michael Jones and avid HS2 supporter, Pete Waterman, who is a board member of the Cheshire and Warrington Local Enterprise Partnership.

Mr Timpson said the bid put forward for an HS2 station at Crewe was a ‘no-brainer’ because of the excellent connectivity and town’s ability to provide workers with construction and maintenance expertise.

Together with MP Edward Timpson, they are spearheading the Crewe superhub bid, which is also supported by the South Cheshire Chamber.

Pop guru and rail enthusiast Pete Waterman said Crewe was a unique site and the area could look forward to “exciting times.”

Minister weighs up Crewe superhub bid Plans to turn Crewe into a hub for high speed rail travel are accelerating ahead with backing from the South Cheshire Chamber.

New HS2 Chief Executive Sir David Higgins aims to bring forward the £50 billion scheme which will dramatically cut down journey times between the North and South.

Chamber Chairman, John Dunning, who has long-campaigned for better rail links to the South, applauded the news, saying: “The Chamber, representing the interests of local business, welcomes all moves to enhance the area’s already excellent connectivity and attract inward investment.

Crewe would become a strategic transport hub - where the high-speed railway would meet lines to Liverpool, Chester, the Midlands and Wales.

The link would slice journey times to London to less than an hour and create hundreds of new road, rail and freight transport jobs. Ultra modern trains, travelling up to 225 mph, would return Crewe to its glory days of a first class rail station.

Spring Edition 2014

However, Sir David’s proposed revised timetable could see a new transport hub opening in Crewe in 2027 and the remaining links to Manchester and Leeds as early as 2030.

In a statement, Cheshire East Council leader Michael Jones, who chairs the Local Transport Board, said: “With this connectivity secured, I believe that we would achieve the maximum economic benefits for UK plc and for the local people and businesses of Cheshire East.”

With backing from key figures and organisations across South Cheshire, Crewe’s links with HS2 look set to arrive six years earlier. Sir David has advised minsters to speed up the delivery of the scheme.

In a new report, he said a 43-mile stretch to Crewe should be built by 2027, rather than 2033, to extend the benefits to the North more quickly.

extensions to Manchester and Leeds by 2033.

“By including Crewe in his plans to speed up delivery of HS2, Sir David recognises the town’s engineering excellence, rich rail history and great location in the heart of the country. And although 2027 seems a long way off, it creates a positive vibe now.

Local people can already see a station revitalisation scheme taking shape and further talk of Crewe’s importance to the country as a strategic road, rail and freight transport hub can only help to restore civic pride.”

Current plans would see a high-speed route opening between London and Birmingham by 2026 with further

Chamber Chief Executive Paul Colman speaking to the BBC

All eyes were on Crewe following the HS2 chief’s announcement. Chamber Chief Executive Paul Colman gave the Chamber’s reaction on radio and TV.

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ADVERTISING 27

Introducing your local Digital Business Adviser - Caroline Feneley Connecting Cheshire Superfast Business has recently appointed Caroline Feneley as the Digital Business Adviser across the South Cheshire Region. Caroline has 25 years expertise enabling owners and managers of small and medium sized businesses to exploit their growth potential. Previously, Caroline was a Business Growth Specialist and Leadership and Management Trainer where she inspired dynamic business to achieve their full potential and maximize profitability.

So far Connecting Cheshire Superfast Business has assisted 150 business and aims to provide full support to 900 businesses by June 2015.

Caroline said: ‘I am delighted to join the programme. Given the challenging economic conditions for SMEs, it is great to be providing support to business that are looking to grow, generate new sales and create jobs for the Cheshire economy.

“Connecting Cheshire Superfast Business offers fully funded support to help eligible small and medium sized businesses in the Cheshire and Warrington area, identify, maximise and profit from the opportunities that new technologies present.

“The programme has a range of events on topics offering inspirational insights, practical solution and technology specialists. The Knowledge Hub holds a selection of top tips, guides and the latest thinking from industry experts on digital technology and opportunities for businesses.

“I would encourage any SME businesses in the area to get in contact to take advantage of this fully funded support”.

For more information please visit www.ccbusiness.co.uk or call 0300 123 1696

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28 ADVERTS

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ADVERTORIAL/MEMBERS NEWS 29

Decreasing Availability the underlying Theme for 2013 The phrase most commonly used by Commercial Surveyors throughout 2013 was “lack of stock� and it is likely to be a continued theme throughout the current year.

It may seem odd to think that the hardest 6 years the commercial property sector experienced for two generations has led to a lack of good quality modern industrial and office space. However, it all comes back to the simple economics of supply and demand.

Wholesale commercial development dried up in late 2007, a year before the collapse of Lehmans, due to funders rapidly exiting the lending market and developers starting to sense the cold wind of recession looming. In fact the last industrial scheme to start on site in Cheshire was a speculative 175,000sqft high bay distribution unit in Winsford. The developer commenced construction at the beginning of 2008 and between then and now the developer went into receivership the bank took over and eventually the unit was let to Howard

Tennens in early 2013. A whole 6 years of the building standing vacant with the only beneficiary being the government through the punitive empty rates scheme.

However, occupier demands did not wholly dry up in this six year period. We have experienced steady take up of stock, particularly in the industrial sector, but it has now got to the point where demand has outstripped supply. We sensed this position arising at the beginning of 2013, when the region as a whole, had very few new buildings of any size available for new occupiers.

Cheshire provided no exception, especially in the traditional strong industrial areas of Crewe and Middlewich.

In fact the Estate of Midpoint 18 in Middlewich ticked over at 90% occupancy until last year when 100% of the original Motorway Estate was full- that represents in excess of 30 units in over 350,000sqft of space.

Crewe has also been particularly resilient, mainly due to the growth and strength of

the established manufacturing and food based economy. So resilient infact that we can confidently report that the first speculative industrial development in Cheshire since 2008 started at Orion Park in the autumn of last year. The scheme, under taken by Black & White Ltd, provides 45,000sqft of high quality industrial units and has been 75% pre-sold prior to completion in March.

The construction of new buildings of this nature is excellent news and is hopefully the opening of the development taps we have all been wishing to see for so long.

However, it is still going to be some time until the Surveying world can drop their favourite term of 2013 and stock levels catch up with the increasing levels of demand we are starting to experience in all sectors of the market.

Matthew Pochin is a Director at Lamont Commercial Limited and specialises in Industrial Agency and Development.

Cutting edge technology is at the root of company success Orascan is celebrating its second year as leaders in the field of 3-D imagery for the dental profession.

to allow manipulation of those images.

Fifteen dental practices are currently using the service.

Founded by Hazel Dunn and her dentist husband, Rob, the company uses Cone Beam Computer Tomography from a special scanner to produce images showing any region of the mouth in three dimensions.

Although mainly used currently for the more advanced dental procedures such as dental implants, the images are sufficiently detailed to be used for the treatment of root canal therapies and gum disease.

After referring patients for a scan, dentists receive all the information they need packaged on a disc which contains not only the images, but also the necessary software

This summer the company is planning to introduce 3D printing which will take data direct from the scans and produce models of the jaw.

For more information on ORASCAN call 01270 611212

www.sccci.co.uk

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30 BUSINESS AWARDS

South Cheshire Chamber Business Awards 2014 Winning the South Cheshire Chamber Business Awards offers many benefits. The high-profile publicity and kudos that goes with carrying off an accolade helps businesses prosper and individuals go on to achieve great things in their workplace. Remember it’s never too early to start thinking about this year’s event - to be held at Crewe Hall on November 28. Sponsorship opportunities are available for companies looking to be part of this great night.

Sponsored by

For details call Madeleine Abbey at the Chamber on 01270 504700 Here we focus on some of the winners who made headlines last November.

More will follow in the next edition.

Young Business Person of the Year - Stacey Parkin of PA4You Since winning the Young Business Person of the Year in November, as well as getting married in January, I have been very busy in my existing BDM role at PA4You Telephone Answering and Sales Support Service. I have been added on to a Growth Accelerator, Government backed, program PA4You is involved in and I’ve been on several one day seminars to build my overall business acumen with the target of becoming a Director for the business in a few years time. We are also looking at further training opportunities I can go on in 2014.

I can honestly say winning the award has helped me gain further recognition for my skills and given me the extra confidence to stretch myself further within the business. I am certainly looking forward to a long and fulfilling career with PA4You as we continue to grow - Stacey Parkin of PA4You

Sponsored by

Best Small Business of the Year - ABP Motorsport Following our success in being named Small Business of the year back in November we have enjoyed some great sales results with our best ever December and January trading figures.

It’s great to hear the positive comments from both new and existing local customers congratulating the ABP team on our latest success. It just goes to show that your customers are proud of your achievements and appreciate your best efforts in running a great business. It’s also nice to see that the promotion of the winners is seen by the local community and may have an impact in their purchasing decisions.

We celebrate our 50th anniversary this year which probably makes ABP one of the oldest established garage businesses in the North West. It’s great to see the local Chamber supporting business especially start-ups and lets hope these go on to see successful 50th anniversaries! Local people deserve to be served by great local businesses offering the very highest level of customer service and we should all aim to satisfy this desire to the best of our abilities – if you meet or exceed consumer expectations that gives them no reason to ever look elsewhere – Chris Meredith, Managing Director

Sponsored by

Excellence in Customer Service - Rookery Hall Hotel & Spa In the months since being named winners for ‘Excellence in Customer Service,’ the Rookery Hall team has become even more involved in the local business community.

Following on from the awards dinner we’ve had separate meetings to develop business relationships with other nominees met on the night.

We have embraced the award and recognition it offered, particularly in the local market place and have displayed the logo on our email footers, our website and on literature that is distributed to companies throughout the UK. The hotel enjoyed a very busy Christmas period and indications for 2014 suggest that the business economy is showing signs of returning to a healthy level.

This year we hope to replicate our business success while continuing to provide excellent customer service to all visitors to Rookery Hall – Mairi Tutt, Regional Sales Manager

Exporter of the Year - Form Nutrition Ltd Since we won the South Cheshire Exporter of the Year Award we have been very busy shipping a number of orders to the Middle East and Europe. In addition we have just agreed a new distributor for Poland, first orders hopefully before Easter. We are also negotiating with a distributor in Singapore to open further markets in that area.

A UKTI Passport and Export course has been completed which was extremely interesting and we have been amazed at how many people both noticed and commented on our win. We have also been shortlisted for the High Sheriff’s award. - Lizzy Blake, Managing Director

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Sponsored by

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32 MEMBERS NEWS

Chocolate shop goes down well in Nantwich Nantwich business Chocyholics is celebrating its first year in the town after welcoming hundreds of sweet-toothed customers from across Cheshire and beyond. To mark its 1st anniversary, it teamed up with the Chronicle to stage a competition offering a hamper including top-selling chocolate brownies, champagne truffles and sugar-topped cupcakes as the prize. Owner Keith Harper, who also has an outlet in Newcastle, oversees production at his chocolate factory in Belgium where all the products are hand-made with a minimum of 70% cocoa content.

Chocyholics sales assistant Delci Bourne, 17, with the shop’s popular Nantwich and Crewe Alex lollipops

He said: “There’s chocolate and then there’s chocolate. The kind of bar you buy in the newsagents contains milk, emulsifiers and preservatives. High end chocolate contains a high percentage of cocoa which helps to release the happy hormone serotonin while being an antioxidant. That’s the science but the simple truth is people love the taste.”

Mr Harper worked for the European Commission before retiring and following his chocolate dream. “My area was researching standards of cocoa imported into the UK so I understood the different grades. When I opened Chocyholics, I wanted it to only stock the best – so I bought the factory,” he said.

All the individual chocolates are just 65p each including the chunky liqueurs containing tasty tipples such as Baileys, Cointreau, whisky and rum. Popular on Valentine’s Day were heart-shaped boxes of chocolates and lollipops declaring ‘I Love You,’ ‘Thank You’ and ‘Special Friend.’

Novelty ranges including chocolate football characters, small animals and pizzas are sculpted with fine detail. Among the latest to hit the shelves are white chocolate ‘scones.’ He added: “All the chocolates are like mini works of art – difference is they don’t cost the earth.”

For more information on Chocyholics visit www.chocyholics.co.uk

Big plans on the menu for food festival Plans are in full swing to turn Nantwich into a paradise for ‘foodies’ this September. Nantwich Food and Drink Festival will offer a host of gastronomic delights over the weekend September 5-7.

The FREE event, all centred in the heart of the town, is billed as ‘the biggest and tastiest food festival in the country’ with a vast array of regionally produced gourmet foods, beers and wines to sample. Businesses across town will throw open their doors to stage events including whisky tasting sessions, sausage-making workshops, cup cake decorating classes, food demonstrations and more.

Festival publicity spokeswoman, Jan Roberts of Pure PR, said: “Last year we welcomed some 30,000 people to our beautiful town and generated some £2m income. The atmosphere was electric and feed-back fantastic.

Food-lovers throng Nantwich town centre during last year’s festival

“Every year the festival gets bigger in size and reputation. Other festivals are now changing their dates so as not to clash and lose out on visiting traders. It really is one of South Cheshire’s biggest success stories. And this year we will have some surprises up on sleeve including a new central site.”

Run by a not-for-profit company with assistance from more than 60 volunteers, the festival is supported by local business sponsors. Mornflake is the main supporter, with a branded marquee on the Bowling Green car-park. Numerous sponsorship opportunities are available which include other town centre marquees and roadside advertising boards in place for several weeks in the run up to the event.

For more information on the event visit www.nantwichfoodfestival.co.uk and for sponsorship opportunities call Jan Roberts on 0770 9977629

Museum scoops lottery cash Nantwich Museum (pictured) has won a Heritage Lottery Fund grant to finance its forthcoming exhibition recalling the early years of the Great War. The exhibition entitled Nantwich and the Great War - the impact of war on a market town opens at the Museum on July 19.

Museum manager, Kate Dobson, said: “The grant will enable us to stage a well resourced exhibition which will raise awareness of the early years of the war and how they impacted on life in the town. It will also facilitate the involvement of a wide range of local partners in the exhibition and associated events.”

Nantwich Museum is celebrating a lottery windfall

Museum volunteers are playing a major part in the organisation and running of the exhibition including the museum's Research Group and Craft Group.

For further information contact Nantwich Museum on enquiries@nantwichmuseum.org.uk or call 01270 627104

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34 SKILLSHARE

Cheshire SkillShare supports new vision for Christ Church, Crewe

By Donna Okell, CEO Cheshire SkillShare In my role as CEO of Cheshire SkillShare I meet some exceptional people running organisations in the voluntary sector. Equally, I am always delighted at the number of businesses willing to offer their skills and expertise for free to support our local community by helping local charities.

Everybody wins when working together effectively.

In this edition of 4Front I would like to share with you a typical day in the life of Cheshire SkillShare, focussing on a recent introduction I made between two organisations: Christ Church, Crewe, and Bentley Motors.

To give you an honest insight into the process of making a ‘match’ between business and charity I asked for the views of the two people involved in supporting the Christ Church project. Although it is very early days in the process, this is what they said:

Q. What happened when the two of you were introduced at “The Match Meeting”?

A: Tim Watson: ” The first thing to say, is that I was incredibly humbled by the opportunity that Donna Okell had created for us.

We were being given the opportunity to share our vision for the project with a leader in their field, someone with a wealth of experience that we would never be able to get elsewhere. The preparation for the meeting was incredibly empowering. I felt I was able to bring the vision, with all its excitements and also with all its gaping holes. I didn't have to pretend to be an expert. I could simply bring my aspirations for the project, the information I had and my enthusiasm for the project.”

A: Mike Morris: “I went into the meeting with an open mind; I really wasn’t sure what to expect or whether I could help. Tim’s presentation of his vision for Christ Church was really helpful and inspiring. This meeting clarified in my mind that I could add something to the process.”

Q: Now that you have agreed to work together, how is the project progressing?

A: Tim Watson: “Mike and I met a few weeks ago, we visited Christ Church and I shared my vision a bit more. We then took a road trip up to Manchester and Salford to look at different projects. I highlighted three different business models I'd seen at work elsewhere and Mike and I visited these projects and discussed with them their business models, their struggles and their joys. Mike asked insightful questions that come from vast experience of working within a similar frame work on a daily basis. While the projects we looked at were very different from Bentley, Mike's observations and questions were pertinent. Mike introduced me to a whole new way of thinking about goal setting.

A: Mike Morris: “We’ve met once and made useful progress gathering data from other Not for Profit organisations. The next steps are to consider which of Tim’s ideas can fit successfully into the space and then start to work on a business plan to test long term viability.

Q. What happened at your initial meeting with Cheshire SkillShare?

A: Tim Watson, Christ Church, Crewe: “Meeting with Cheshire Skills Share helped us to begin forming a plan of action. By discussing our vision we were able to begin outlining some of the opportunities and potential pitfalls. Personally, I was excited to be able to see a pragmatic order of events being formed. This is what needs to be done, then this, then this...”

A: Mike Morris, Head of Strategy and Development, Bentley Motors: “Bentley had previously supported a local charity through SkillShare and I discussed the project with my colleague who is familiar with the SkillShare initiative; from her perspective the support required by Christ Church was around business plan building. From my perspective, I am happy to try to help community-based projects and this sounded both interesting and uses my skills effectively. Bentley is active in supporting the local community in many ways; we are happy to support this sort of work if we think we can bring some value to the programme.”

Q: What are you goals for the future?

A: Tim Watson: “The vision remains in place but it is being refined.

I am now more aware of what needs to be put in place to make the project viable for the long term. I am also more aware of the order by which I need to work towards certain goals. I'm excited by the energy and enthusiasm Mike has brought to the project. I am also encouraged by the challenges Cheshire SkillsShare brought to me as well. I am looking at different business models highlighted

by Donna and feel that I may be finding the niche in which the project might sit.”

We look forward to hearing how the project progresses.

Cheshire SkillShare is keen to support local charities and widen its network of businesses who would like to help. Any Cheshire business interested in offering their time and expertise to support the SkillShare initiative, or any local voluntary and community group who would benefit from skilled support, should email donnaokell@cheshireskillshare.org.uk or contact 01244 688 436.

Cheshire SkillShare is a Registered Charity number: 1153334

Spring Edition 2014

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