4FRONT - South Cheshire Chamber's Business Magazine (Spring 2015 edition)

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Businesses support Crewe Pledge

SOUTH CHESHIRE CHAMBER BUSINESS MAGAZINE Spring 2015

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FOREWORD

Welcome to the Spring edition of 4Front, the magazine for businesses in South Cheshire Welcome to our Spring Edition of South Cheshire Chamber’s 4FRONT magazine for 2015.

General election campaigning is now officially underway and while the result is very unclear at this stage, the Chamber network is very clear about what it requires from the next government.

As part of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Accredited Chamber network, through consultation over the last 12 months we have produced a business manifesto called ‘A Business Plan for Britain’ which sets out clearly what businesses require to prosper. During the term of the next parliament, decisions made will determine how our businesses have the ability to grow and trade domestically and internationally.

John Longworth, Director General of the BCC outlines the manifesto (Page 7) and the seven actions that must be at the heart of the plan for the next government. High on the list of priorities is ‘Developing the talents of the next generation’, because as we know, preparing young people for the world of work and nurturing the business leaders of the future is essential to the UK’s competitiveness.

In South Cheshire over the last few months businesses, education and the local authorities have been working together to create the ‘Crewe Pledge’ whose aim is to provide every young person with an opportunity to develop employability skills and personal qualities that will lead to jobs and further education.

The launch of the ‘Crewe Pledge’ (Pages 6 & 7) took place at South Cheshire College recently and it generated over 130 attendees from all sectors for a breakfast event, showing the commitment to help young people in our area.

infrastructure, and businesses need certainty that crucial improvements are actually delivered. In South Cheshire we have seen investment in infrastructure including the Crewe Green Link road and Basford West Spine road plus the improvements to Junctions 16 and 17 of the M6. Funding has also been allocated for the Crewe Green roundabout and the bottleneck that is the Sydney Road bridge.

If after the election we can have confirmation of the proposed High Speed rail hub, then South Cheshire is well placed to prosper and grow.

Of course there are many other factors that influence the growth of an economy including business start-up, long-term business investment, driving down costs and taxes and international trade support.

The Chamber is involved in all these activities and should your business need or require support please do not hesitate to contact the Chamber team.

I hope you enjoy this edition of 4FRONT and I encourage you to submit articles for future magazines to tina.hankey@sccci.co.uk.

Chief Executive South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry @SCCCI_CEO

Chamber Team

Paul Colman Chief Executive http://www.sccci.co.uk/ portal/paul-colman/

Jon Barnes Chamber Manager http://www.sccci.co.uk/ portal/jon-barnes/

Nadeem Ahmad Chamber Executive Business Community & ICT Development http://www.sccci.co.uk/ portal/nadeem-ahmad/

Madeleine Abbey Chamber Executive PA to Chief Executive http://www.sccci.co.uk/ portal/madeleine-abbey/

Tina Hankey Chamber Executive Membership Co-ordinator http://www.sccci.co.uk/ portal/tina-hankey/

Trevor Langston Chamber Executive Business & Education Co-ordinator http://www.sccci.co.uk/ portal/trevor-langston/

Anne Xiourouppa Accounts http://www.sccci.co.uk/ portal/Anne_M_Xiourouppa/

Richard Weilding Business Loans Executive http://www.sccci.co.uk/ portal/richard_weilding/

Paul Wilcox UKTI http://www.sccci.co.uk/ portal/paul-wilcox/

Clair Visco Business Travel Planning Officer http://www.sccci.co.uk/ portal/Clair/

Claes Gulliksen MMU Cheshire Student

Michael Swales Springfield School Student

Dianne Parrish Business Connector, Crewe and South Cheshire (Working in collaboration with South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce)

Gemma Lennon Membership Marketing Support

Another key priority for businesses ahead of the election is the need to rebuild Britain’s infrastructure, because a worldclass economy needs a world class

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.

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NEW MEMBERS

Meet our new members . .

Brampton Recruitment Ltd Brampton House, 10 Queen Street, Newcastle-Under-Lyme, Staffordshire ST5 1ED Telephone: 01782 667 591 charlotte@bramptonrecruitment.co.uk www.bramptonrecruitment.co.uk Recruitment

Tebbitts & Co First Floor, Scope House, Weston Rd Crewe, Cheshire CW1 6DD Telephone: 01270 211 567 Fax: 01477 587 482 info@tebbitts.co.uk www.tebbitts.co.uk Solicitors

Bailey Fine Arts Dagfields Farm, Crewe Road, Walgherton Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 7LG Telephone: 01270 842 882 graham@baileyarts.co.uk www.baileyarts.co.uk Fine Art Dealers

Britoffice Ltd Manor Farm, Holmes Chapel Road, Sproston Middlewich, Cheshire CW4 7LP Telephone: 01606 837 370 Fax: 01606 837 750 clair@britoffice.co.uk www.britoffice.co.uk Office supplies

Cheshire Connect c/o South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce, Lyme Building, Westmere Drive, Crewe Business Park, Crewe, Cheshire CW1 6ZD Telephone: 01270 504700 Mobile: 07946 639 394 dianeparrish@cheshireconnect.org www.cheshireconnect.org Charity

Teach Speech 21 Tynedale Avenue, Crewe, Cheshire CW2 7NY Telephone: 01270 651 031 neil.brown@teachspeech.co.uk www.teachspeech.co.uk Specialist Speech Support

A J Lovekin Handyman Services Kenwood, Parkside, Madeley, Crewe, Cheshire CW3 9JR Mobile: 07449 035 867 andylovekin@hotmail.co.uk Property Maintenance

Oak Exports Ltd Tarporley Business Centre, Tarporley, Cheshire CW6 9UY Telephone: 01829 733 671 Fax: 01829 732 080 oakexport@aol.com Exporting

Route2Take Ltd Ollerbarrow House, 209-211 Ashley Road, Hale, Cheshire WA15 9SQ Mobile: 07940 772 657 darrenw@route2take.com www.route2take.co.uk Marketing

Aztec Aerosols Quakers Coppice, Crewe Gates, Crewe, Cheshire CW1 6FA Telephone: 01270 656 380 tim@aztecaerosols.com www.aztecaerosols.co.uk Manufacturing

Heelheadover Productions Ltd Heath Cottage, Wrenbury Heath, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 8EQ Mobile: 07525 816 114 heelheadover@gmail.com www.heelheadover.com Photographic

Sugar Cloud Cakes 64 Shelburne Drive, Haslington, Crewe, Cheshire CW1 5QG Telephone: 01270 252 084 sugarcloudcakes@hotmail.co.uk www.sugarcloudcakes.co.uk Cakes for all occassions

Be You tiful 1a The Commons, Sandbach, Cheshire CW11 1EG Telephone: 01270 767 377 hello@aromasenses.co.uk www.aromasenses.co.uk Retail

Mustard Seed Marketing Frederick House, Princes Court, Beam Heath Way, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 6PQ Telephone: 01270 623 804 Fax: 01270 524 920 david@mustardseedmarketing.co.uk www.mustardseedmarketing.co.uk Marketing

Helen Williams Photography 90 Valley Road, Wistaston, Crewe, Cheshire CW2 8JY Mobile: 07590 679 387 enquiries@helenwilliamsphotography.co.uk www.helenwilliamsphotography.co.uk Photographic

Cheshire Celebrant 6 Chatsworth Close, Crewe, Cheshire CW2 6SW Telephone: 01270 323 717 cheshirecelebrant@talktalk.net www.cheshirecelebrant.org.uk Independent Celebrant

E G Training & Consultancy Phillands House, 15 Riverside Grove Wistaston, Crewe, Cheshire CW2 8QP Telephone: 01270 567 141 paul.holland@eg-training-plus.co.uk www.eg-training-plus.co.uk Training & Consultancy B W Electrical Data Services 4 Lochleven Road, Crewe, Cheshire CW2 6EX Mobile: 07793 290 396 Williams-barry@sky.com Electrical

For more information on joining the Chamber contact Tina on 01270 504 700 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 www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

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NEW MEMBERS

Jo Jo’s Day Nursery Total Fitness Gym, Macon Way, Crewe, Cheshire CW1 6DG Telephone: 01270 314 677 info@jojosdaynursery.com Child Care

Bifolds Plus 9 Welles Street, Sandbach, Cheshire CW11 1GT Telephone: 0333 222 0876 info@bifoldsplus.co.uk www.bifoldsplus.co.uk Construction

The Yew Tree Inn Long Lane Spurstow, Tarporley, Cheshire CW6 9RD Telephone: 01829 260 274 info@theyewtreebunbury.com www.theyewtreebunbury.com Public House & Restaurant

Cambridge Mercantile 71 Fenchurch Street, London EC3M 4BS Mobile: 07880 491 382 Telephone: 02070 234 945 istott@cambridgefx.co.uk www.cambridgefx.co.uk Foreign Exchange Consultant Paul John Howarth - Artist 18a Pillory Street, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 5BD Mobile: 07855 855 415 P44blo@hotmail.com Art

My Local Guru Ltd 3 Regents Gate, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 6TF Mobile: 07867 908 042 ian@mylocalguru.com Computer Software Development

Cooper Poole Ltd Unit 4, 269 Newcastle Road, Blakelow, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 7ET Telephone: 01270 620 020 Fax: 01270 314 275 sales@cooperpoole.co.uk www.cooperpoole.co.uk Air Conditioning

Deposit Sense Ltd Radway Green Business Centre, Radway Green Crewe, Cheshire CW2 5PR Telephone: 01270 886 215 paul.alkins@depositsense.co.uk www.effectivecashmanagement.co.uk Finance & Legal

Fix I.T - Nantwich Ltd 16A Pepper Street, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 5AB Telephone: 01270 625 911 admin@fragit.co.uk www.fragit.co.uk Computer Hardware Sales Open Door Haslington Methodist Church, Bradeley Road Haslington, Crewe, Cheshire CW1 5PW Telephone: 01270 501 281 allpressg@sky.com Charity

Wilhall Tool & Gauge Ltd Unit 2, 269 Newcastle Road, Shavington, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 7ET Telephone: 01270 666 088 Fax: 01270 666 088 wilhalltoolgauge@btconnect.com Engineering

Bazerbow Limited 49 Lochleven Road, Crewe, Cheshire CW2 6RX Telephone: 01270 650 424 phil@bazerbow.com www.bazerbow.com Manufacturing

First Hosted Limited 112-114 The Courtyard, Radway Green Business Centre, Radway Green Crewe, Cheshire CW2 5PR Telephone: 01270 446 803 andrew.peddie@fhl.co.uk. • www.fhl.co.uk Cloud Computing P Barrett Landscapes Cherry Orchard Farm, Poole, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 6AL Telephone: 01270 610 520 gardensbyp.barrett@yahoo.com Gardens

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Up and Under Foundation c/o Up and Under Group, Coppice House, Quakers Coppice, Crewe, Cheshire CW1 6FA Telephone: 01270 589 615 lorna@creh.demon.co.uk • www.upandunderfoundation.org Charity

Atherton and Associates Wealth Management Ltd - Chartered Financial Planners 1 Park Road, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 7AQ Telephone: 01270 624 164 Fax: 01270 619 050 chartered@athertonandassociates.co.uk • www.athertonandassociates.co.uk Finance & Legal

Love Art Gallery 46 Pillory Street, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 5BG Telephone: 01270 626 226 info@loveartgallery.co.uk www.loveartgallery.co.uk Art

Begbies Traynor The Old Barn, Caverswall Park, Caverswall Lane, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire ST3 6HP Telephone: 01782 394 500 Fax: 01782 392 200 stoke@begbies-traynor.com www.begbies-traynor.com Insolvency Practitioners

For Advertising Sales and Articles please contact Tina Hankey: South Cheshire Chamber Lyme Building, Westmere Drive, Crewe Business Park Crewe CW1 6ZD Tel: 01270 504 700 • Ext 16 Fax: 01270 504 701 Email: tina.hankey@sccci.co.uk www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk www.sccci.co.uk/portal/tina-hankey

Summer Issue due out 29th June 2015 Editorial Deadline 29th May 2015 Advertisement Deadline 5th June 2015 Contact tina.hankey@sccci.co.uk

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CHAMBER NEWS

Scheme creates new prospects for Crewe’s young people Business representatives took away a copy of their signed pledge.

Now copies of the signed pledges will be posted in schools and colleges showing students companies keen to offer opportunities such as apprenticeships and work placements.

Chamber chief executive Paul Colman said: "Nurturing the business leaders of tomorrow is essential to the UK's competitiveness.

Crewe Pledge can help drive this forward. Locally you just need to look at the figures to see how important it is to develop a young and enthusiastic workforce."

"Crewe's growth profile, underpinned by thorough economic analysis, anticipates by 2030 over 20,000 jobs will be created. In the wider region, with HS2, there could be over 60,000 jobs created.

"Crewe Pledge will help develop a quality 'pipeline' of young people entering the jobs market to take on these roles."

A great turn-out for the launch of Crewe Pledge

More than 150 people from over 60 different organisations have pledged their support to an exciting new initiative promising Crewe's young people a brighter future.

Crewe Pledge, a scheme forging closer links between young people and employers, was officially launched on Friday 27th March at South Cheshire College.

Several key partners are behind the scheme which will develop closer links between employers and young people.

Trevor Langston, who is leading on the Crewe Pledge, said: "We have been overwhelmed with the initial response to Crewe Pledge.

Local employers are in a unique position to improve the future prospects for Crewe's young people and they have shown they are right behind the principle of giving them a chance to show how much they have to offer."

Students from Crewe secondary schools, colleges and university were represented at the launch event

Businesses were joined by pupils and staff from Crewe's secondary schools as well as Reaseheath and South Cheshire Colleges, Manchester Metropolitan University, Total People, South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce, Cheshire East Council and Crewe Town Council. All have worked together as a partnership to get the Pledge established.

Trevor Langston said: "The Pledge encourages businesses to consider how many under 21 and 25s are on their staff and ask if they are taking on and nurturing young people for the benefit of the long term interests of their business."

Jamie Stewart, of Bumblebee Digital which handles Crewe Pledge website (www.thecrewepledge.co.uk) and social media, said: "Taking on apprentices has helped my business in many ways. The energy and enthusiasm they bring can help transform any business."

Richard Jones signing up to Crewe Pledge for Mornflake in Crewe

The launch invited businesses to sign up to the Pledge which states: "Businesses in Crewe will work together with the aim of providing every young person living, studying or working in Crewe with the opportunity to develop employability related skills and personal qualities whilst in education and then a choice of a job, training or further education opportunity when they leave."

Any business that would like to become involved in Crewe Pledge is asked to call Trevor Langston at the Chamber on 01270 504700 or 07595 496400.

Alternatively email trevor.langston@sccci.co.uk.

Pictures: Pure PR

continued . . .

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CHAMBER NEWS 7

Signed up to the Crewe Pledge Alpha Omega Securities Ltd Association of Accounting Technicians Assurant Solutions Astrum Design and Print Barclays Bank PLC Bentley Bumblebee Digital Ltd Business Doctors Careers Academy Carrot Insurance Cat Community Radio Changing Education Ltd Cheshire Connect Cheshire East Council Cheshire East Virtual School Cheshire East Young Service The Co-operative Group Crewe Lyceum Crewe Town Council ctchealthcare Donna Louise Children’s Hospice Dorothy Clive Garden

Expert Logistics Hall Smith Whittingham LLP Hibberts Ltd Holiday Inn Express James Walker John Heath Insurance Brokers Keltbray Aspire KidzKitchen Kindertons King’s Grove School KPI Recruiting Magenta Moon LLP Manchester Metropolitan University Martin and Co. Mid Cheshire Hospital Foundation Trust Mornflake National Apprenticeship Service National Sales Academy Navigation Skills.co.uk P.A.4 You Ltd Purple Oak Consulting Ltd QHotels, Crewe Hall

Reasheath College Red Shift Return on Investment Ltd Ruskin Community High School Safe Opportunities SG World Sir William Stanier South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry South Cheshire College Springfield School Stepping Stones St Thomas More Sue Roberts - Utility Warehouse Swansway Garages The Team Chongi Academy Total people Ltd Unipart Rail Virgin Trains Wulvern Housing YMCA Crewe

A Britain built for growth The UK stands at a fork in the road Over the next five years, we can become a more confident, more enterprising, more skilled trading nation - or retreat into slow but very real decline. The decisions taken during the term of the next Parliament will have a profound impact on our ability to grow businesses here at home and trade across the world.

removing barriers to trade will support UK businesses to take on the world; • Place business at the heart of local growth - because ensuring business growth takes centre stage in local decisionmaking and procurement will boost the economies of our cities, towns, and counties;

John Longworth, For the life of the Parliament and Director General beyond, we need a Business Plan for Britain – with governments across the UK focusing their attention on creating the best possible environment for growth, aspiration and enterprise.

A Britain built for growth is a Britain where government decisions are relentlessly pro-growth; business policies are fit for the long term; local business communities are empowered; the machinery of national and local government works with and for business; and those held democratically accountable for outcomes are free to appoint those in charge of delivery.

To achieve growth that delivers prosperity, seven actions must be at the heart of any plan for government: • Develop the talents of the next generation - because preparing young people for the world of work, investing in the skills of those already at work, and nurturing the business leaders of tomorrow are essential to the UK’s competitiveness; • Support long-term business investment - because promoting access to finance, and backing investors in dynamic businesses will support the rebalancing the UK economy so badly needs and help drive up productivity;

• Rebuild Britain’s business infrastructure - because a worldclass economy needs worldclass infrastructure, and businesses need certainty that crucial improvements are actually delivered; • Drive down business costs and taxes - because simplifying the UK tax system, and reducing the taxes firms pay even before they generate a profit, will boost businesses competitiveness, investment and jobs; • Deliver a new settlement for Britain in Europe - because making the economic opportunities of the European trading bloc work for business, and ensuring clear safeguards for Britain against unwanted further integration, will be critical for our future success.

The goals of our Business Plan for Britain are shared by companies in every region and nation of the UK. In some cases, action is required from Westminster - in others, solutions will be in the hands of the devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and local areas in England.

Our Business Plan for Britain is practical, pragmatic and achievable.

We call on the next UK government, the devolved administrations, and local authorities – regardless of location or political colour - to work together and with us to make it a reality.

• Grow Britain’s global trade potential - because building international networks, investing in our export skills base and

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CHAMBER NEWS / MEMBERS NEWS

Double Award for Community Radio Founder

Forthcoming Events MARCH Chamber Portal User Workshop 26th March Pitman Training Centre Final Friday 27th March at the Aga Shop, Nantwich APRIL Welcome Morning 10th April at the Chamber Chamber Portal User Workshop 23rd April at Pitman Training Centre Final Friday 24th April at Manchester Metropolitan University, Crewe

Liz Southall with High Sheriff Susan Sellers and Mayor of Nantwich, Cllr Christine Farrall

Founder of RedShift Radio, Liz Southall, has recently received two community awards.

The first was presented to Liz as one of eight chosen by Susan Sellers during her year as the High Sheriff of Cheshire.

Announcing the recipient of the award for “Great and Valuable Services to the Community,” Mrs Sellers said: “Liz is a woman of boundless energy who four years ago started RedShift Radio. This is an online community radio station based in Crewe that not only promotes many different voluntary organisations but has many volunteers working as presenters. She also provides support for students from the Prince’s Trust and has a charity slot on a Friday afternoon where she promotes local causes.”

The same day as the High Sheriff Award, Liz received a letter from the Mayor of Nantwich, Cllr Christine Farrall, to say she had been selected to receive one of her new Salt of the Earth Awards for her services to the Nantwich community.

Liz received the “Mayor’s Award for Inspiration” at Nantwich Civic Hall where the Mayor also praised the new website Liz has set up to help promote the town of Nantwich, called inNantwich.net.

Anyone who can offer time or sponsorship to any future events including The Nantwich Food & Drink Festival, Nantwich Show, The Weaver Wander or Battle of Nantwich is asked to email liz@redshiftradio.co.uk

MAY Welcome Morning 1st May at the Chamber Chamber Portal User Workshop 21st May at Pitman Training Centre Final Friday 29th May at Storage Boost, Crewe JUNE Welcome Morning 5th June at the Chamber Texas Scramble Wychwood Park Golf Club (date to be confirmed) Chamber Portal User Workshop 18th June at PitmanTraining Centre Final Friday 26th June (venue to be confirmed)

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

Farewell to Clair As many of you may know, Clair Visco worked on Crewe’s ‘Smarter Ways to Travel’ Local Sustainable Transport Programme as the Business Travel Planning Officer, working one day a week from the South Cheshire Chamber Offices and the other two days in Cheshire East’s Transport Service. Clair was surprised to find that her initial appointment of seven months turned into almost two years – and how that time has flown!

Affable and with a great sense of humour, Clair fitted in well with Council and Chamber colleagues and has said that everyone made her feel incredibly welcome from day one. She made many good contacts and worked tirelessly to involve numerous businesses in the project, to improve as many journeys as possible - and through the ‘Smarter Travel Partnership’ and our own new travel website, both legacies of the programme, will continue her good work.

Clair really enjoyed working on the sustainable transport project and in the line of duty, found herself facing various situations she wasn’t expecting, from posing in front of a bus, doing a radio interview, creating a media stir with her UFO spotting skills, riding a mega-bike and finally, playing in the mud at Queens Park when the recent Cheshire Cat Family cycle rides were blown and washed away, save for four hardy, intrepid locals who turned up to complete their rides.

Clair has returned to her job at Jacobs in Manchester, but has admitted that she’s going to miss working in Crewe. Signing off, she said “I’m sure I’m one of the noisy ones in the office, so enjoy the peace and quiet!”

To Clair, we would like to say a big ‘Thank you’ for all you have done to raise awareness of the benefits of sustainable travel in Crewe. We’ll really miss you and any time you’d like to call in to catch up with progress you’ll be most welcome!

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PORTAL NEWS / CHAMBER NEWS 9

BCC Annual Conference: ‘We need a business plan for Britain’ Speakers included Senior Cabinet Ministers and opposition spokespeople including Prime Minister David Cameron, Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg and Ed Balls, the Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer and Chuka Umunna, the Shadow Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills.

John Longworth, Director General

South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce representatives joined Chambers from across the country at the BCC annual conference.

Speakers and panelists focused on addressing four business-critical themes developing the talents of the next generation, growing UK exports, devolution to all regions of the UK and Britain’s position in the world, at the British Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Conference in March at the QEII Conference Centre in Westminster.

The conference, brought together more than 800 business people from a range of industries, and from across the UK.

BCC Director General John Longworth set out the leading business group’s General Election manifesto — entitled A Business Plan for Britain — and has called on all aspirants to political power to embrace a pro-enterprise, pro-growth agenda in order to generate wealth and prosperity for the United Kingdom. John Longworth said: “I want to begin today with something of a strong dose of reality. The United Kingdom is a small country in a dangerous, competitive and uncertain world. The 64 million people who live on these islands are less than 1% of the world’s population. We represent just 3% of global GDP. We were once, but are no longer, the world’s leading political and commercial power.

“Yet - in an increasingly specialised world – our size and these changed circumstances are not a problem. Indeed, they are an opportunity. Britain is a niche player in a

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global market of constant change. Fleet of foot, flexible,and open. Britain is a great place to do business in the world of the 21st century.

“That is why the British Chambers of Commerce have set out a “Business Plan for Britain”. Practical, real-world ideas, that will help boost business as our country navigates through a world full of turbulence, both economic and political. Chamber businesses know what it takes, and the sort of environment we need, in order to deliver that essential, great, long-term, sustainable growth. So, to those who scoff at the possibility of Britain meeting the Chancellor’s aim – or the ambitions set out in our own British Chambers Manifesto – I say this: “Think not that it is an impossible challenge.

Instead, think about what we need to do to make it a reality – understanding the fundamentals, embracing uncertainty and taking risks, like businesses do day in and day out”.

To find out more about the BCC Conference and speeches delivered visit www.bccconference.co.uk

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10 CHAMBER NEWS

Switch and save says Council Leader Cheshire East Council leader Michael Jones presents Fairerpower - a great value new energy service launched by the local authority Residents in Cheshire East can now switch to a new supplier, a partnership between the Council and OVO Energy.

Customers will get:

Michael Jones (right) and Craig Morley, managing director of OVO Communities, at the launch of Fairerpower

•

Potential average savings of up to £200-£250 a year (See note 1);

•

Ability to fix contracts for 12 months;

•

No exit fees;

•

3 per cent interest reward paid on all credit balances, up to £1,000 (See note 2);

•

Award-winning customer service.

Mr Jones said: “I was the first to sign up when we officially launched Fairerpower at Westfields, Sandbach, on Monday, March 16.

Television cameras and radio reporters were there to capture a historic moment.

“By setting up Fairerpower, Cheshire East becomes the first local authority to supply energy direct to the public since gas and electricity were nationalised in 1948. We are not making any money out of Fairerpower, in fact we’re investing in it. That’s because I want to eliminate fuel poverty in Cheshire East and Fairerpower will help to do this.

“Our offer will be available to all sections of the community and can save most people a lot of money. Never again will people in

Cheshire East have to choose between eating or heating during the winter and Fairerpower’s offer is so good, it may soon be available to people living outside the borough.”

He was particularly pleased to get the backing of Chancellor of the Exchequer and Tatton MP George Osborne, who said: “I welcome the partnership between Cheshire East Council and OVO. More choice for local people means competitive prices. I would strongly encourage my constituents to see how much they can save by switching their energy supplier.”

Customers who pay by monthly direct debit can now switch to the Fairerpower service. Pay-as-you-go customers will be able to sign up shortly and an offer for businesses is due to launch in the summer.

OVO is the first ever energy supplier to be given Which?

Recommended Provider status and the company also came top in 10 out of 12 categories in the uSwitch Energy Awards 2014, including Supplier of the Year.

To find out how much you can save and how to switch, please go to: www.fairerpower.co.uk Notes [1] Fairerpower’s 12-month fixed tariff for a non-economy-7, dual-fuel, medium user (3200 kWhs elec. and 13500 kWhs gas) paying monthly in advance by direct debit and without online discount.

Comparisons made against British Gas’ “(Standard) Variable” tariff for a non-economy- 7, dual fuel medium user (as above) paying by monthly direct debit and without online discount. Cheaper tariffs may be available. 44% of customers in the Fairerpower region are with British Gas (Quarterly Domestic Energy Customer Numbers September 2014, Department of Energy and Climate Change) and between 50%-90% of customers with the Big Six (including British Gas) are on standard variable tariffs. Incl VAT. Actual savings may vary according to your current supplier and tariff, Fairerpower tariff options, consumption and location. You will have 14 days to cancel your contract.

[2] Calculated at 3%/year, paid monthly based on number of days in credit and the amount left in your account after you’ve paid your bill. Interest is capped at 12 times the amount of the current direct debit amount and is available to customers paying by advance direct debit. Terms apply.

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12 CHAMBER NEWS

Football club scores as function venue Nantwich Town Football Club has upgraded kitchen facilities as part of its continued investment in the Weaver Stadium.

activities in this field to another level. “A key element in all this is the additional income that such an investment will enable us to bring to the Football Club which does need to have diverse options in generating funds over and above match day receipts.

The project has brought the kitchen facilities up to the standard of its impressive function suite which is becoming an increasingly popular venue in Nantwich.

“All funds are reinvested into the football side of the club both at Community and League level.”

The previous kitchen facilities severely limited the range of functions that the club could accommodate and the club directors recognised this was restricting the level of events that could be catered for within the function suite.

With the help of a loan from South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce Loan Fund, the club has extensively refurbished the kitchen and upgraded the cooking and preparation facilities within this area. Tony Davison, Club Director, said: “This investment will enable us to increase our capability in providing a full range of catering support to our function suite. This will allow the club to hold more events in what is a first class venue. We feel that we now have a venue that will match any other in the area for accommodating events such as

Tony Davison, Nantwich Football Club Director, with Richard Weilding, Chamber Business Loans Executive

The club has been based at the Weaver Stadium, off Waterlode, since its move from Jackson Avenue in 2006. Richard Weilding of the Chamber Loan Fund said: “We were delighted to support Nantwich Town in this venture. The Business Plan provided by the Board made complete sense in enhancing their income streams and optimising the returns from the facilities available at The Weaver Stadium.”

Sportsman’s Dinners, Corporate Events, Family Celebrations and indeed anything that requires a meeting place.

Anyone looking for a venue should contact Michelle Gradon at the club on 01270 621771

“Our location with significant car parking has always been an advantage for us and this investment will help the club move our

To speak to Richard Weilding about the Chamber Loan scheme call 01270 504700

Need a loan? The Chamber can help . . .

Bat out of Hell or B Road out of Nantwich

Perhaps we need to keep things in perspective and not necessarily get out to IKEA for a flat pack boxing ring or pillory just yet (Doubtless the pillory would come with a guarantee based upon 1000 hours of testing – mind boggling!).

The sacking of Jeremy Clarkson has perhaps shown that no one is immune from sanctions for unacceptable behaviour.

Such a decision will undoubtedly be a painful one for the BBC as they make it clear that they are prepared to jeopardise one of their most lucrative franchises.

The case throws up interesting questions about how much anyone in business should take, from not only staff, but customers, in our commercial world before being compelled to take action.

The moral here is mutual respect - not only where staff is concerned, but also customers. We may all aspire to drive like Clarkson, but there will be very few who seek to be like him. Good staff and customer relationships remain key features for business success.

Business Loans Executive Richard Weilding

In over 40 years of visiting company premises, I have yet to come across a boxing ring in the middle of the canteen where staff differences can be sorted out, or even a pillory for holding ‘Worst Employee of the Week’ at the mercy of employers and staff, with a surfeit of rotten fruit and veg.

The whole Clarkson episode seems to hinge on a request for lunch from a work colleague, which unless this involved any element of cannibalism, would appear to have escalated quite disproportionately to where we are now.

I suppose this now means that the innocent question from a work colleague – ‘I’m off into town for some lunch – does anyone want anything?’ – is now potentially the most explosive statement during the working day.

The Chamber Loan Fund continues to support companies seeking to enhance their customers’ experience and staff development, so that our businesses continue on a harmonious pathway to greater success.

I now take a Tesco trolley with me as I pop out for some lunch, so obliging I am to take orders from my colleagues at the Chamber.

My Skoda and I are at one with other drivers on the roads of Crewe and Nantwich with a cheery wave as you cut me up and I count several Argentinians amongst my closest friends.

Feel free to contact me at the Chamber. I will be the guy in the white suit and helmet, recently unemployed but glad to be back, and in keeping with the image I have developed in my previous employment, ready to burn Skoda rubber to meet up with you.

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

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

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CHAMBER NEWS 13

A Dane in Crewe tolerance and language. Twinning towns sign an agreement with each other about the area they are twinning with and most Twinning towns have some resemblance.

For example Crewe and Nantwich is twinned with the following three towns: Bischofsheim (Germany), Macon (France) and Dzierżoniów (Poland).

What is the Resemblance of the Twinning Towns?

The Twinning towns to Crewe and Nantwich resemble each other in the fact that two of them are railway towns, just like Crewe, and central hubs on a railway system in their respected countries. All of the towns have schools and colleges in them, the same as Crewe and Nantwich.

My experience with Twinning

Claes Gulliksen, from Denmark, is working with the Chamber as an intern on a placement in association with MMU Cheshire. He has been sharing his experience of working with the Chamber and living in Crewe in a series of blogs.

Here he looks at Twinning and the role it plays in the modern business world.

During my internship at The South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce I have been working with something I have heard of and actually been a part of at home in Denmark.

The work I have done is trying to connect the South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce with Chambers in the Twinning Towns to Crewe and Nantwich.

I first became aware of Twinning some 16 years ago at home in Denmark, here I was invited, together with my Brother to join a Twinning experience visiting Karups Twinning town Kalosca in Hungary. We travelled with a school class from the town to Kalosca, where each child had a pen-pal in the school we were visiting and each Danish student had to live together at the pen-pals home while the Danish teachers had to live together with the Hungarian teachers at their home. This was a very nice experience for both the children and the teachers and all had learned some language skills because the only shared language between Hungary and Denmark is English, and perhaps a little bit of German. We are in the year 2015 and for the last 2 months I have communicated with people in the Twinning towns to Crewe and Nantwich and it looks like we are finally making headway in our effort to make contact with the Chambers of Commerce in the Twinning Towns.

Who are the Twinning towns?

What is Twinning?

Macon Twinning is not something new, since it has existed for Centuries, but after the two World Wars, and especially World War II the number of towns that twin with each other has grown. This has been done in an effort to heal Europe of its scars after the Wars, and to inspire the people to overcome cultural barriers, acceptance,

Is the oldest of the Twinning Towns to Crewe and Nantwich and is a railway hub in France. Macon is serviced by TGV (very fast train 187 miles pr. hour) and normal trains.

The Chamber has got good contact to the CCI SAÔNE-ET -LOIRE where we speak to Laurent Manson.

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

Bischofsheim Is the second oldest of the Twinning Towns to Crewe and Nantwich and is a railway hub in Germany. Bischofsheim is serviced by trains and is close to the bigger German towns of Mains, Frankfurt and Darmstadt.

IHK Darmstadt is the Chamber for the town and we have a good contact there in Christina Dempfle.

Dzierżoniów Is the newest of the Twinning Towns to Crewe and Nantwich and is located in Poland in lower Silesia. Dzierżoniów is not a railway town but shares a twinning town with Crewe and Nantwich. Here we are beginning to make progress but are yet to get a contact.

Why Twinning?

Twinning is still very popular, and we live in a time where education and business are global. By having a twinning town in a foreign town you have a gateway for your businesses and education to go abroad and reach new markets and gain new skills to trade on the global market. In view of that, the South Cheshire Chamber is trying to organise a Twinning event with the help of the Chairman of CANTA, Clive Mosby, to get Companies and Chambers of Commerce from our Twinning Towns to a conference based on the following three top peaks: Business expo, networking and social engagement in the form of lunches and a golf tournament. I hope many businesses from Crewe and Nantwich will participate in the event this summer and that it will be a success to be hosted next year in one of our three Twinning Towns.

Finally I invite you to follow what is going on in the blog “a Dane in Crewe” on the South Cheshire Chamber website. The hope is to make a site on the website which will house all the information the Chamber has gathered about Twinning and the Twinning Towns, so I hope to see your comments.

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14 NETWORKING

A busy season of networking Being a member of the South Cheshire Chamber offers a great deal of opportunity to network and make new business contacts.

Final Friday events are a chance to gather at different locations – just recently venues have included Nantwich Museum, the Cheshire Cheese pub at Shavington and Nantwich Aga shop.

There have been social evenings at local theatres. Members visited the Lyceum Theatre to see Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Reckless Sleepers presented Negative Space at the Axis Arts Centre at the Manchester Metropolitan University Cheshire Campus in Crewe.

Meanwhile Welcome Mornings, greeting new and existing members, continue to attract large gatherings at the Chamber offices.

Spring and summer months offer more opportunity to network at a variety of venues including the Manchester Metropolitan University and Storage Boost.

Call the Chamber on 01270 504700 or visit the website for more details www.sccci.co.uk Cloverleaf Images took the photos at both the Cheshire Cheese pub and the Nantwich Museum

Nantwich Museum Photographs show Madeleine Abbey and Nadeem Ahmad of the South Cheshire Chamber with Nantwich Museum manager Kate Dobson and Final Friday networking at the town attraction

Cheshire Cheese Pub Members enjoyed Final Friday networking at the Cheshire Cheese pub in Shavington where Madeleine Abbey is seen with pub manager Michael Carnell

Nantwich AGA Shop Nantwich Aga shop was the latest venue for Final Friday networking

Welcome Mornings Welcome Mornings are a great opportunity to learn more about the Chamber and make new business contacts

Lyceum Theatre and Axis Arts Centre Theatre evenings have become a popular date on the Chamber events calendar

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

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CHAMBER NEWS 15

All change for Crewe as projects make their mark Here we present an update on the schemes reshaping South Cheshire as part of a major strategy to boost wellbeing and support economic growth Engineering company Mahle are also opening an office base at Crewe Business Park, relocating from Stoke.

CREWE LIFESTYLE CENTRE As part of the construction timetable, a ceremonial ‘topping out’ ceremony was held last month. The new Lifestyle Centre is due to be open and operational by Spring 2016. Relocation of services to the Lifestyle Centre will release other sites for development across the town including but not limited to Crewe Library and Flag Lane Swimming Baths.

Assurant Solutions – significant number of new jobs at their current HQ in Crewe – up to 25% increase in headcount Wrights’ new bakery facility is now open at Weston Road.

This £6m investment produces 144 individual products and employs 80 staff.

This £15m facility will increase footfall at all times of the day in the town centre and will be a landmark building which will provide two swimming pools, a gym, multi-purpose exhibition hall and suites and a new library and adult and family day care provision.

OTHER DEVELOPMENTS

BUSINESS GROWTH Over recent months we’ve seen the growth of many local businesses – including Bentley, Expert Logistics and OSL Rail. There’s a strong pipeline of new investment and expansion enquiries that we hope come to fruition.

Cheshire East has announced their intention to sell part of the Redsands site to HPL Prototypes which is intended as a new R&D base. The deal is subject to planning but, if approved, it will create 70 new jobs.

Development is well advanced at Dunwoody Way which will include a new family restaurant/pub, and at Grand Junction two new restaurants will be opening shortly.

There is also a local developer investing in speculative new industrial units on University Way. ENERGY Having undertaken initial analysis of the geothermal opportunities in Crewe, supported by funding from the Department for Energy & Climate Change, a further £56k has just been awarded to the council to support linked plans to establish a district heating network in Crewe town centre.

This reflects the opportunity that urban

areas like Crewe have to enable homes and businesses to be connected to a single source of heating, thereby achieve efficiency savings and cost reductions.

Following the council’s promotion of the unique geothermal opportunities beneath Crewe, financial investors and companies in the utility market have expressed an interest in the plans for geothermal at Leighton West in Crewe, which has been identified as an ideal site for drilling down 4.5 km to bring hot water to the surface.

Cheshire East is the first local authority since 1948 to become an energy supplier, through a partnership with Ovo Energy, which aims to offer substantial savings against the national average tariff rates charged by the Big Six suppliers.

The new provider, Fairerpower, will potentially benefit all Cheshire East’s businesses and residents. The council is keen to hear from local businesses who would be interested in becoming Fairerpower’s first commercial customers. www.allchangeforcrewe.co.uk

INFRASTRUCTURE UPDATE Basford West Spine Road

Expected to be open by August this year.

Provide link from Nantwich Road/Gresty Road to A500 Opens up Basford West site for 370 houses and ancillary development. Also outline planning application submitted for 1m sq ft industrial/distribution space Part-funded through CEC bid for DfT Pinchpoint funding (£2.7m) and Goodman (site owners)

Crewe Green Link Road

Road open to traffic – Autumn 2015

Create a link between Weston Road and the A500. It will reduce congestion and accidents and open up Basford East employment site and enable commercial development of housing.

The railway bridge over the Crewe-Stoke line is expected to be installed over the Easter break.

Completed by Summer 2015. (Highways Agency)

Highways Agency work on revised junction arrangements (c £7m) and widened A500 on M6 approach (c. £3m).

Works due to complete by June 2015

Pinch-Point Scheme Increased Junction Capacity. Includes a roundabout at South exit/North entry and traffic light controls at North exit/South entry

Crewe Green roundabout

Projected date 2017

LEP Local growth funding allocated

Sydney Road bridge

Projected date 2017

LEP Local growth funding allocated

M6 J16 and A500 Widening M6 J17

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

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16 ADVERTORIAL

Here's to 2015 . . . A continued year of growth!

South Cheshire, Staffordshire and North Wales’ leading recruitment agency KPI Recruiting has now expanded its recruitment services to the North Cheshire region. This, following a request from a major client expressing their desire to use the specialist recruitment services of KPI Recruiting across it’s group.

The new office in Central Warrington is part of an ambitious expansion plan which will now see KPI Recruiting offer it’s full portfolio of recruitment services across the whole of the North West, Staffordshire and North Wales. 2015 is deemed to be a very exciting and ambitious year for KPI as their tenacious expansion plans continue, with further branches opening throughout the year.

KPI has long been established as the leading recruitment business in the Cheshire, Staffordshire and North Wales regions for the recruitment of temporary and permanent personnel in the Industrial, Commercial, Driving and Technical sectors. It has provided excellent and reliable recruitment services for over 100,000 people since it opened its doors in 2008.

The new office complete with KPI Recruiting’s revolutionary candidate ‘training and induction’ centre will create an initial 5 new internal jobs with further experienced recruitment professionals strengthening the team and apprentice positions giving opportunities for young education leavers to begin their careers.

“It’s a great achievement to be expanding once again in such a short period of time. We have a great internal team who have shown tremendous commitment and passion

that has seen us have huge growth with an enviable reputation. Our team share the vision and the passion of its directors and it is also their belief that our clients receive an unparalleled level of service and that service must be as cost effective as possible within the recruitment agency marketplace.” said KPI Director Ryan Jardine . He went on to say “I would like to thank our existing customers who continue to give us repeat business that has given us stability and put us in the fortunate position to have ambitious expansion plans.”

The new geographical presence of the Warrington office will open up new catchment areas for KPI Recruiting to attract more skilled and experienced job seekers as well as the ability to provide reliable, reactive and accurate recruitment services to businesses in the North Cheshire, South Manchester and Merseyside regions.

We would love to welcome the opportunity to work with new clients throughout 2015 and if you also believe that you will be increasing your head count then now is the perfect time to discuss your recruitment strategy.

If you are looking to recruit Industrial, drivers or commercial staff please give us a call to discuss your requirements with a sector specialist on 01270 589943 Pictured below, Business Development Manager Steve O'Neill proudly opens the door of KPI Recruiting's new office in Warrington.

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

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CHAMBER NEWS 17

Chambers Join Together for International Trade The South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce and West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with UK Trade & Investment and with the support of North West Chambers, gave local businesses a fantastic opportunity to learn more about exporting to the dynamic markets of South East Asia.

The event ‘Doing Business in South East Asia’ was held at Macdonald Craxton Wood Hotel & Spa on Friday 6th March 2015. Split into two halves, the morning featured Market & Export support presentations by Overseas British Chamber representatives from Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia and Vietnam and a case study by Delamere Dairy.

Jon Barnes of South Cheshire Chamber and Debbie Hancox of West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber gave a brief presentation on

how the Chambers of Commerce can help businesses export, while Stacey Byrne of North West Chambers spoke about the Overseas Business Network Initiative (OBNI).

available for businesses looking to trade internationally.

The afternoon consisted of a series of 1-1 meetings, giving the assembled delegates the chance to meet with the various representatives and presenters for extra help and advice.

Jon Barnes said: “This was a very popular event and we received great feedback from everyone who attended. These events are an excellent opportunity to meet with representatives from different countries and find out the best ways to market”.

Ms Nguyen Thi My Chi & Ms Luong Buu Hoang of British Business Group Vietnam

Rounding off the packed morning session was Kevin Finucane of UK Trade & Investment, detailing the advice and support

For further information please contact Jon Barnes on 01270 504 700 ext 21 or email – jon.barnes@sccci.co.uk

School offers top class support situations and feeling confident about the way people interact outside of a school environment. At Safe Opportunities the hard work is rewarded each week when a student achieves a new target and when we see one hold their head up proudly and say ‘I achieved this, I am part of this workplace.’ Our students have great potential and are ready and willing to join workforces across Cheshire.”

Safe Opportunities works with a cluster of schools within Cheshire.

Springfield School in Crewe is inviting South Cheshire businesses to offer work placements to its enthusiastic young people. The youngsters, aged 14-19, have a wide range of capabilities which help to enrich the workplace and add value.

Currently they are gaining experience in a wide range of sectors from food and retail to logistics, offices, care homes and nurseries.

Staff at the South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce welcome Michael on work placement one day week when he provides great support in transferring data, understanding currency and data cleansing.

Helen Pullan, from Safe Opportunities Ltd who co-ordinates the placements, said: “Springfield School has a strong employability culture from the headteacher through the school to the youngest child. Each member of staff wholeheartedly encourages participation in employability programmes across many of the school activities. For example, the team ensures every pupil on a work placement leaves the school gates with their correct work uniform on and understands exactly what is expected of them whilst on their placement.”

Michael, 17, has also undertaken placements at Lakeside Bowling, the Co-op and South Cheshire College. He’s loving his work at the Chamber where he has also been involved in Welcome Mornings greeting members old and new to our offices on Crewe Business Park.

Helen added: “The benefits of the programme as described by the students are being able to communicate with a wider range of adults, understanding that you need to work independently, not to always be told what to do next, feeling less anxious about new

For more information contact helenpullan@safeopportunities.co.uk or call 07415 245537

Are you receiving the Chamber e-newsletters?

Sent fortnightly on successive weeks: News & Blogs Latest News, Blogs, Offers, Polls etc.

Events & Training Forthcoming Events and Training Courses, including ongoing clinics, workshops, drop-in sessions, consultations etc.

Mailing list of over 1300 email addresses Subscribe online at www.sccci.co.uk

Promote your Business Chamber Members - reach out to new customers and build your brand through regular promotion in the e-newsletters News, Blogs, Events, Training, Advertising, Sponsorship

For more details contact Nadeem Ahmad Email: nadeem.ahmad@sccci.co.uk Telephone: 01270 504700 (ext.19)

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

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18 MEMBERS NEWS

Wulvern welcomes student Staff at Crewe-based Wulvern gave a warm welcome to a student from Petty Pool College as he commenced a work placement with the affordable homes provider.

As part of the college’s Meaningful Opportunities Realistic Employment (MORE) project, 21 year old Tom Garner has joined Wulvern’s Estates teams to gain valuable work experience in readiness for when he leaves the college in July.

Tom will be helping a team of caretakers out and about in our neighbourhoods throughout Crewe and Nantwich.

gain from placements goes a long way in supporting their wellbeing and development.”

Wulvern’s Estates Team Leader, Tom Rowland added: “We are delighted to have Tom with us and hope that the work experience he gains from being with Wulvern will help him on his journey to employment and independence.”

Linda Walker, MORE Project Manager explains: “The MORE project is a government backed initiative aiming to help young people with a learning difficulty into sustainable employment. The experience the students

To learn more about Wulvern visit www.wulvern.org.uk

Company answers national charity call helping people reclaim mis-sold PPI and Packaged Bank Accounts, swapped focus to help Comic Relief receive donations and volunteered until midnight to answer the public’s donation calls.

Crewe-based Crystal Legal Services was a major supporter of Red Nose Day 2015 in March when 60 members of staff volunteered to receive donation calls.

Employees at the claims company raised over £1,900 internally through fundraising activities such as fancy dress, bake sales, tuck shops, sponsored head shaving, leg waxing, an in-house bike ride, raffles, challenges, games and so much more.

Red Nose Day comes along every two years and combines two very British things - having a laugh and helping others. Thanks to the generosity of the great British public, Comic

Relief raised over £1 billion which has gone towards changing the lives of people in the UK and across Africa.

Managing director, Tony Shields said, “The generosity of the British public is amazing and the team at CLS are all pleased and proud to have helped make a difference to Comic Relief 2015. This is becoming a long-standing tradition of our business and we look forward to getting involved again in 2017.”

This is the third year in a row that the Crystal Legal employees, who are usually busy

For more information on the company visit www.crystallegal.com

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

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MEMBERS NEWS

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Company offers life-saving skills A firm of health specialists has become an accredited provider of first aid training to the corporate sector.

South Cheshire-based ctchealthcare is now working with local companies to ensure they have peace of mind when it comes to an emergency situation in the workplace.

First Aid training sessions for employees are carried out at its Combined Therapy Centres in Crewe and Nantwich.

The courses, accredited by industry watchdogs Qualsafe, combine theoretical knowledge and practical sessions that are designed to develop ability and practical confidence.

Lisa McKenna demonstrating first aid skills at ctchealthcare in Crewe

They cover everything from fainting, asthma and allergic reaction to resuscitation (CPR), head injury and stroke.

The company, founded by former Manchester United and Chelsea Football Club physiotherapist Rick Carter, also welcomes private individuals and volunteers looking to equip themselves with first aid skills.

He said: “For years we have provided first aid at pitch-side, with our specialists ready to step in when a footballer or rugby player is injured.

a heart attack or broken neck.

“What happens in those vital seconds is critical to the patient’s chances of a full recovery.

“We believe every company should have at least one member of staff who has a basic grasp of first aid. Training them to react to someone who is choking, bleeding or concussed can make all the difference to a life or death situation.”

Helping him to deliver first aid training is sports therapist Lisa McKenna who often has to come to the rescue of players at Crewe and Nantwich Rugby Club.

She said: “You don’t need to be on the rugby field to be exposed to injury. The workplace and home are a minefield so we are pleased to see members of the public joining our first aid training courses also.” ctchealthcare, founded 20 years ago, is a leading provider of sickness absence management, injury prevention and health and wellbeing programmes.

It works with businesses such as Bentley, Air Products and Dunelm as well as local authorities such as Cheshire East Council and Staffordshire County Council.

A range of physiotherapy, acupuncture and complementary services are also provided to individuals attending its clinics which include bases on Crewe Business Park and Beam Heath Way in Nantwich.

For more information on services to companies and individuals clients call 01270 361363

“That can be anything from a twisted ankle or fractured limb to even

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

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REASEHEATH NFU President pays tribute to Reaseheath’s commitment to farming for Food Futures and the Environment and its plans for a £7 million Agri Technology Centre.

The NFU President also said he was delighted that Defra recognised the national role the college plays through it being named as one of 11 Food Enterprise Zones in the country.

NFU President Meurig Raymond is joined by Reaseheath agriculture students Rich Bailey, Ross Towers, Ellie Gassor, James Davies, Sarah Howie, Philip Lawton and James Goodwin

NFU President Meurig Raymond has paid tribute to Reaseheath College for its outstanding commitment to the advancement of the farming and food industry.

Commenting during a visit to the Nantwichbased college, Meurig said that he was impressed by Reaseheath’s strategy, particularly its investment into its new £7.5 million Centre

Meurig emphasised: “The food and agricultural industry has a £100 billion annual turnover and is the largest manufacturing sector in the UK with over six million employees, all of whom are dependent upon farmers as the primary producers. Reaseheath College plays a nationally significant role through its commitment to support this extremely important industry.

“It is of critical importance that the next generation of farmers are equipped with the scientific and technical knowledge which will allow them to compete on a global scale. By the end of this year there will be 9.6 billion mouths to feed in the world. Those entering the farming and food industry now will play a key role in helping to solve this challenge.”

Reaseheath Principal Meredydd David said: “The NFU plays a hugely important part in influencing government strategy and its role is even more critical now with the current challenges facing the dairy industry. Fortunately, the food and farming industry can gain great confidence from Meurig’s great leadership and we were delighted that he found the time to address our local partners.”

Meurig Raymond was at Reaseheath College as guest speaker at the inaugural meeting of the Cheshire branch of the Institute of Agricultural Management.

His talk on the developing role of the professional farm manager in the changing face of British agriculture attracted over 90 farmers, managers and students from throughout the county.

For more information on the college call 01270 625131

SOUTH CHESHIRE COLLEGE College lands Investors in People gold award The Crewe college has landed the prestigious Gold award which is three levels higher than the previous grading awarded to the College in 2011.

During a rigorous three day assessment, 40 staff from all areas of the organisation were consulted on their views of the college.

South Cheshire College has good reason to celebrate after scooping its highest ever Investors in People (IIP) standard.

Staff were also asked about training programmes which the college delivers to help them with their Continuous Professional Development (CPD).

Common themes which were identified

throughout the process included the enthusiasm, dedication and passion of colleagues.

Only 7% of Investors in People accredited companies in the UK reach the Gold standard and the college now joins an elite band of organisations which are held up as shining examples.

College Principal Jasbir Dhesi said: “Our people are one of the key strengths and this award is testament to their enthusiasm, hard work and dedication.”

Students think about the next step at careers fair Many Russell Group universities were in attendance at the event including Liverpool, Leeds and Birmingham along with more local universities such as Keele, Staffordshire and Manchester Metropolitan.

Students who are hoping to progress to university or secure employment after college were able to find out more at an annual Careers and Higher Education Fair.

Top UK universities were on hand to offer advice to students who are thinking of university as their next step, while leading employers including Q Hotels, Aldi, Bentley Motors and the Royal Air Force also attended.

South Cheshire College had a strong presence at the event to deliver information about its own Higher Education courses and apprenticeship programmes.

Crewe Mayor Pam Minshull and Steve Davis, Crewe Alexandra Football Club manager, officially opened the fair to hundreds of students.

Crewe Mayor Pam Minshull with Staffordshire University Outreach Officer Ashley Cotton and students Emma Atkins, 16, far left, and Natasha Roberts

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For more information about HE courses and apprenticeships at South Cheshire College call 01270 654654 or visit www.scc.ac.uk

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BENTLEY Royal visitors meets Bentley trainees and master trainers Combining theory and practical learning will also be the focus for learners at Crewe Engineering & Design UTC which will help ensure a steady pipeline of young people needed to sustain the unique skills and quality levels required to sustain Bentley’s growth plans.

Speaking about the visit, Wolfgang Dürheimer Bentley Chairman and CEO, said: “To deliver on our exceptionally high standards requires a highly skilled and motivated workforce. We therefore invest in their training throughout their careers at Bentley.

“Everyone at the Crewe factory feels honoured and highly appreciative of the visit of His Royal Highness. We were delighted to demonstrate first-hand the skill our engineers, craftspeople and trainees here in Crewe possess as we prepare for the launch of the first SUV in the luxury sector, the Bentley Bentayga.”

His Royal Highness The Duke of York visited Bentley's headquarters in Crewe to meet apprentices and find out more about Bentley's innovative approach to training young people and continuously improving the skills of colleagues throughout their careers at Bentley.

HRH, who as Patron of the Baker Dearing Trust is a strong supporter of University Technical Colleges, also heard how Bentley is working with partners in the South Cheshire area to open Crewe Engineering & Design UTC in September 2016.

Bentley’s new manufacturing apprenticeship is based on the proven dual education model and includes competence profiles and dedicated placements with expert Master Trainers within chosen professional areas such as Bentley specialisms in wood, leather and mechatronics.

Bentley also announced that its latest apprentice intake, to start in September this year, is its biggest in 25 years, with 63 positions.

Bentley has also recently announced its expansion plans in Crewe with a new £40million R&D centre and 300 new roles being created in engineering, manufacturing, quality, sales and marketing and project management. This is part of a wider £840 million investment plan by Bentley over three years to 2016.

For more information visit www.bentleycareers.com

The Duke met both apprentices and colleagues working on some of the brand new and bespoke training islands in wood, leather and engine production.

See page 33 Bentley named top employer

WULVERN Wulvern appoints Growth Manager Development Manager.

Lisa brings considerable experience to her new role with a wealth of knowledge of planning legislation, building regulations and procurement.

South Cheshire housing association Wulvern welcomes Lisa Connor who has taken up post as Growth Manager.

With over 20 years’ experience in housing and development, Lisa has worked for some of the top registered social landlords in the North West, most recently Great Places Housing Group where she was

Wulvern is a lead investment partner with the Homes and Communities Agency and is delivering the second largest affordable homes programme in the North West having secured just under £15 million grant funding which will see the Crewe-based housing association deliver over 1,000 affordable homes by March 2018 across Cheshire.

Lisa will manage this development programme to ensure projects are delivered on time and on budget.

Lisa said: “It’s a very exciting time to join Wulvern. I’m looking forward to managing the development programme to deliver

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

high quality new properties for communities across Cheshire.”

Executive Director (Growth & Enterprise) Kevin Williams said: “I am delighted to welcome Lisa to Wulvern. This is an incredibly exciting time for Wulvern as we embark upon our biggest ever development programme providing much needed affordable homes across Cheshire. Lisa brings with her a wealth of experience which will be a real asset to Wulvern as we deliver our vision of providing brilliant social housing.”

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

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MORNFLAKE Mornflake sets new record as club sponsors on Mornflake. It is a great ambassador for the area, flying the flag high for Crewe as it exports products to countries across the world.

Fans know it as a top local employer and great friend to the club while players wear the company logo on their shirts with pride.”

A new-style shirt, bearing the Mornflake logo, is currently being designed and will be unveiled at pre-season friendlies in July.

Marketing spokesman Richard Jones said: “We have hundreds of employees who are massive fans of Crewe Alexandra and show their support at matches home and away.

“Like Mornflake, the club is part of Crewe’s heritage and we are all right behind the team as they fight to stay in League One. “No matter what the result, local people can be proud of a great side on their doorstep.”

The firm has signed up for an 11th season as top sponsor of the side based nearby its mill and headquarters on Gresty Road.

Alex manager Steve Davis joined Mornflake staff for breakfast to celebrate the shirt sponsorship. He enjoyed gluten free porridge in the kitchen where new products are developed.

Club secretary Alison Bowler paid tribute to the company saying: “Mornflake’s shirt sponsorship is now the longest in club history and we can’t be more grateful for the firm’s continued support.

For more information on products visit www.mornflake.com

Abigail Saunders of Mornflake serves up a gluten-free porridge breakfast to Crewe Alexandra manager Steve Davis and players Matt Tootle and Lauri Dalla Valle in the firm’s development kitchen

Mornflake has netted a new record as the oldest sponsor of Crewe Alexandra Football Club.

“Throughout our highs and lows we have always been able to rely

SG WORLD Making the case for Health and Safety figures to the risk of an accident happening to put the investment in safety into context. HSE undertook some detailed research that found for every £1 of direct costs you can associate with an accident there are between £8 and £36 of indirect costs.

Let’s take the example of a firm that has identified an unsatisfactory trend of forklift truck accidents which could be prevented with a pre-inspection routine. Typically an annual supply of SG World’s forklift truck pre-inspection system costs £298.

The importance of Health and Safety is enshrined in the Health and Safety at Work Act introduced in 1974 and it’s given Great Britain one of the best health and safety records in the world. In principal, protecting the health of the workforce is beyond dispute but we know that when times are tough management will be looking for a robust business case to justify any spend.

In the experience of SG World, it’s not very often that the Sales team come up against a Health and Safety manager who simply isn’t interested in our range of products. The more usual scenario is that the spend needs to be justified internally against a lot of competing demands on the company budget.

The hourly salary of a FLT operator is about £9.50 and a firm could reasonably expect to lose 10 days p.a on preventable accidents and additional downtime avoided by a regular pre-inspection routine, this is your direct cost. Multiply that figure by anything between 8 and 36 (20 is probably best as it is more or less the mid-point) to take into account of the hidden costs associated with the accidents and we’re looking at over £15K. Suddenly the initial outlay on a preinspection system doesn’t seem as expensive and this is if we confine ourselves to purely financial losses – you can’t begin to quantify the personal cost of a serious accident.

“We appreciate when budgets are tight it’s tempting to not invest in precautionary health and safety measures so it’s important to appreciate the bigger picture.” said Dan Lister, SG World Business Development Manager. “Attributing some basic cost estimates to the accidents you can prevent can help both SG World and the H&S professional reach the same outcome. In this sense we are both very much on the same side.”

For more information visit www.sgworld.com

We all know that accidents cost business through lost productivity or increased insurance claims. It’s very useful to attribute some real

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MANCHESTER METROPOLITAN UNIVERSITY RedTrack programme wins top industry award The scheme currently supports 10 young people who work full-time for Virgin Trains whilst completing a BA (Hons) in Business Management and part of an industry recognised certificate from the Institution of Railway Operators (IRO) during a three-year fixed-term contract.

RedTrack is the only undergraduate scheme in the rail industry.

Trevor Brown, Project Lead for MMU, said: "The UK Rail Industry Award had over 200 applications to this category, and we are thrilled to have won the award, it really is quite an achievement. The project is only in its second year and to have recognition of its relevance to the rail industry is a testament to the hard work of the MMU/Virgin development team, our Business and Management academics here at the Cheshire campus and our students, ‘the RedTrack Crew’.”

MMU Business Management lecturer Joy Grant, MMU Project Lead Trevor Brown, Trish Sangster and Tony Collins, both from Virgin Trains

The MMU and Virgin Trains partnership programme RedTrack has beaten more than 200 other entrants to receive the Apprenticeship Development Scheme award at the 2015 UK Rail Industry Awards.

The judging panel, made up of experts from across the rail industry, was impressed with how Virgin Trains and MMU are developing apprentices through the RedTrack programme.

Amanda Hines, Head of People Management for Virgin Trains, said: “The programme highlights Virgin Trains' commitment to growing talent through investment in young people, who are presented with a range of opportunities and experiences in a business environment whilst being supported through their degree studies.

“Our people are so important to us and the RedTrack programme has allowed us to develop some new, really talented, members of the Virgin Trains team. We are really proud of all of them and of winning this highly respected award which we feel reflects our commitment to the programme and our people.”

For more information on MMU courses call 0161 247 2000

John Heath (UK) Limited is Registered in England and Wales as a Private Limited Company, company no. 07636523 ‘John Heath Insurance Brokers’ and ‘Coverdrone’ are trading names of John Heath (UK) Limited

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24 MEMBERS NEWS

Firm in harmony over Jazz festival There were crème eggs for children and special discounts for landlords and tenants.

Rachael Watson, office manager at the firm’s Crewe office, said: “Temples has enjoyed great success over the years and likes to give back to the community that has supported us.

“The Jazz Festival is one way we do this. It does a fabulous job at promoting Nantwich and we support its magazine every year.

“This year we decided to take things a step further by offering some great deals to landlords and tenants which were launched during the festival weekend.”

Temples has scooped many awards over the years including the ESTAS gold for top National Small Lettings firm, presented by Location, Location, Location star Phil Spencer.

Temples marketing assistant Nikki Webb, property manager Hannah Speed and Crewe office manager Rachael Watson set up for their spring promotion on Nantwich town square

Temples hit the right note with music-lovers by handing out Easter eggs during the Nantwich Jazz and Blues Festival.

The family firm, which celebrates its 12th anniversary this month, is a long-standing supporter of the music extravaganza which drew massive crowds to Nantwich over the weekend.

It took a branded vehicle onto the town square from where visitors were invited to enter a ‘Guess the Number of Balloons in the Car’ contest offering Crewe Hall spa passes as prizes.

Rachael added: “Spring is traditionally a very busy time when properties start changing hands so we are delighted to offer advice to anyone entering the Buy to Let market or looking to maximise an existing portfolio of rental properties.

“We pride ourselves on looking after tenants too, finding them the best properties for their price bracket.”

Until June, landlords are offered a month’s free management and tenants can receive £50 off application fees or six months free insurance.

For more information on Temples and offers visit www.templeslettings.co.uk

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MEMBERS NEWS 25

Boys are back in town the furniture retail and manufacturing industry, the local lads believe they have what it takes to drive the company forward to new heights in 2015.

Joe and Andrew Leech outside Furniture Brothers

Two brothers from Cheshire have joined together to open up their own furniture retail business in Crewe.

New Chamber members Joe and Andrew Leech have excelled targets in their first six months of trading at Furniture Brothers and put their impressive results down to their hard work and passion in what they do.

With over 10 years combined experience in

Joe said: “The aim is to stand out from the crowd offering our customers something different from our competition. We are able to go that extra mile to provide an exceptional service and believe the key to repeat custom is to provide the best after sales service possible.”

The brothers have spent a few years in the South but returned to their roots to achieve a long-held ambition to run their own business.

They have made it their priority to use a large number of British manufacturers to help reduce one of the number one pet

hates in retail, delayed delivery dates.

He added: “We found out in the early stages that we were receiving a lot of enquiries from people who were interested in what we had to offer but were unable to get to us which is why we introduced a service providing in-home advice and guidance and measuring up which we find is really beneficial to a lot of our customers.

“The plan for us as a company is to grow throughout Cheshire in the coming years.

We also hope that we can reach out to local businesses in the area and work together with them on our contract ranges of furniture for hotels, residential homes and new development projects.”

For more information call Furniture Brothers on 01270 314331

Mid Cheshire Hospitals charity thanks Chamber members Mid Cheshire Hospitals Charity is delighted to have reached the £250,000 mark for an additional MRI Scanner at Leighton Hospital.

taking part in a range of events including a Boot Camp, Pub Quiz, Nightingale Choir, the Great Manchester Run and London Marathon.

Successfully funding £1m for the additional MRI scanner will provide a number of benefits to patients, staff and the Trust. The new scanner could help Leighton save more lives than ever as well as improving the patient experience.

Radiographers with a patient on the existing MRI scanner at Leighton Hospital

The Charity started 2015 off with a bang with the help of the local community hosting and

Laura Riddle, Charity Manager comments: ‘It’s fantastic to see the local community behind the MRI Scanner Appeal and I’d like to thank Chamber members for their support and taking part in the ‘Send Us Your Elfie’ campaign at Christmas. We definitely wouldn't have reached the £250,000 mark without the local community’s continuous support so far. We still have quite a way to

go before the £1m MRI Scanner Appeal target is achieved.”

Edward Timpson, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Children and Families, and MP for Crewe and Nantwich, is also behind the MRI Scanner Appeal, and will be taking to the streets of London to compete in the London Marathon.

With the current MRI scanner working to full capacity between 8am to 8pm, seven days a week and with around 30 patients a day being scanned, the decision was taken to procure and install an additional MRI scanner in order to address the shortfall in capacity.

To find out more about the events coming up visit www.mchchrity.org.uk

University honour for Dennis Dunn The Manchester Metropolitan University has awarded former Pro Vice Chancellor of MMU an Honorary Fellowship in recognition of “his outstanding contribution to the development and evolution” of the University in Cheshire.

The Fellowship represents the gratitude of staff and students for his commitment to the University.

Dennis received the award at a gala graduation ceremony held at the Bridgewater Hall in Manchester

Honoured - Dennis Dunn

Dennis is of course well known to chamber members and is a passionate advocate of our region and of the business community.

A former Dean of the MMU Business School in Manchester before taking over in Cheshire in 2001, he has been instrumental in

countless partnership initiatives and was a principal player in the award of the University Technical College (UTC) to Crewe.

At MMU Cheshire Dennis transformed the University to be community facing and delivered £75m of investment at the Crewe campus to build world class facilities. MMU has prospered to become one of the UKs largest and most popular universities with recognised excellence in Research and Teaching.

Now Chairman of Mid Cheshire Hospitals Foundation Trust, he is contributing to the significant transformation of our hospitals at Leighton, Victoria at Northwich and Elmhurst at Winsford.

Mid Cheshire was officially rated as ‘good’ by the Care Quality Commission, placing it in the top 10% of acute trusts inspected in the country.

Meanwhile Leighton Hospital has been announced as the UK’s ‘Maternity Service of the Year’ by the Royal College of Midwives.

With over £30m of investment at the hospital in the last three years the impact on outstanding patient care looks very positive.

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26 MEMBERS NEWS

Numbers swell at accountancy firm Banks Sheridan has taken on three new members of staff.

The new recruits joined the firm in its office on Crewe Business Park to assist in the provision of accounting and tax services for both companies and individuals. Sian Knight brings more than 12 years of financial experience to her role as Outsourced Services Leader at Banks Sheridan where she will supervise payroll services for clients.

“In celebration of the fact Banks Sheridan is growing, both in terms of the number of clients we act for and the services we offer, we have employed three new professional staff members to join our team, said director, Stuart Banks.

Recent Durham University graduate Charles Bracegirdle joins as a Trainee Accountant. As well as helping with company audits, accounts preparation for small businesses and personal tax services, he will study for the Chartered Accountant qualification.

“It is really exciting to have Sian Knight as our new Outsourced Services Leader, Charles Bracegirdle joining us in the role of Trainee Accountant and Bradley Evans as an Accounts Apprentice. All three individuals are highly professional and have a great deal to offer our clients.

At 19, Bradley Evans is the youngest of the trio to join the accountancy firm in the position of Accounts Apprentice.

“It is also great that we have been able to fill all the positions with talented individuals who live nearby, which will help in our continued support of the local community.”

For more on services visit www.bankssheridan.co.uk

Builder Jim celebrates anniversary milestone celebratory bottle of bubbles with colleagues and family at his Woore HQ, before getting back to the projects that clients bring to him from far and wide.

“I’ve enjoyed an interesting career but I won’t be spending too much time celebrating as client projects come first and we are blessed with a range of work that is keeping us gainfully occupied, said Jim whose creations have included an ‘upside down house’, a ‘Footballer’s Wife’ style project and the restoration of a grand and historic building.

Builder Jim Hadfield is celebrating 25 years in an industry that has dubbed him ‘the dream maker’ in recognition of the ultra creative approach that enables him to achieve the challenges that clients set for him.

Jim, Managing Director of A J Field Developments, will be marking the professional milestone by popping a

“The upside-down house was a project where the client wanted the bedrooms downstairs and an open plan living area above to maximise the stunning views , while the stylish Cheshire project was the restoration of a listed property with a swimming pool, cinema, playroom and gokart track.”

Other notable building projects include a new prison at Fazakerley, a press hall for the Stoke Sentinal newspaper, a multi-storey Inland Revenue HQ and the creation of a new shopping complex above a live retail centre.

Raised in Church Minshull Jim achieved an HND in Building Studies at Sir John Moores University in Liverpool before studying for a degree in Construction Management at the University of the West of England in Bristol.

He added: “Running your own business brings with it significant responsibilities but also enables you to experience the satisfaction of working on a project then seeing your building every time you drive by, leaving you proud that you and your team built it.”

For further information visit www.ajfield.co.uk

Project takes the plunge Rodney Cottrell, organiser of the project, said “There’s over 16,000 registered wheelchair users in the area and the Wheelyboat will provide an enriching lifeexperience to many people who wouldn’t otherwise have access to the canals.”

Free boat trips and water-based activities for the disabled and mobility impaired are coming to Cheshire.

The Overwater Wheelyboat Project has been formed to purchase a specially built boat with wheelchair, walking frame and walking stick access for people of all ages to enjoy the scenery, wildlife watching and even to fish from!

Due to launch in May, the Overwater Wheelyboat will be based at the awardwinning Overwater Marina in Audlem recently awarded 2015 THYA Marina of the Year. The marina has hosted a similar charity boat service, the Audlem Lass, for the last four years and this has proved a great success providing a weekend taxi service from the marina into the picturesque canal side village of Audlem for the cost of a donation to the RNLI.

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The MK III Wheelyboat is a specially designed 5.3m aluminium boat with drop-down bow door for roll-on, roll–off boarding and disembarking. With its level open deck, it provides complete wheelchair access throughout enabling groups and families to enjoy trips together in safety and comfort.

It is hoped the new Wheelyboat will be just as great a success as the Audlem Lass and will open up the canal to many more people who would not previously have been able to access the waterways.

For more information please see our website www.overwaterwheelyboat.co.uk

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MEMBERS NEWS 27

Crewe construction director in the running for charity boost Gareth’s own son, Harry, suffers from Hirschsprung disease, a serious condition that affects the gastro-intestinal tract.

Gareth Williams, a director of Construction Linx, a construction and property maintenance company in Crewe, is currently undergoing a gruelling training programme in readiness for running the London Marathon in aid of the charity CLIMB (Children Living with Inherited Metabolic diseases).

Gareth, who has never run the London Marathon before, is hoping to raise £1,500 for the charity which is close to his heart as

Harry is now four years old and doing well, although he still visits Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool for check-ups. It was while staying at Ronald McDonald house, a charity-funded unit at the hospital, providing accommodation to families with children undergoing treatment that Gareth saw how valuable these support organisations like CLIMB are for families.

With the encouragement of his work colleagues at Construction Linx, he decided one way he could help was by running the London Marathon on April 26 and donating the proceeds of his efforts to CLIMB.

We stayed at the Ronald McDonald accommodation there and experienced first-hand just how important these charitable organisations are when it comes to providing support to the families of sick children. All the staff at Construction Linx encouraged me to run the London Marathon for CLIMB. It’s good to know we can do something to help, even if it’s just by donating a few pounds.”

He has already raised several hundred pounds, but he is hoping to raise £1,500 in total.

To support him visit www.justgiving.com/GarethWilliams68 or call Gareth Williams at Construction Linx on 01270 848700

Gareth said: “When Harry was born, he underwent open heart surgery at Alder Hey.

Hotel works to promote Cheshire tourism hotspots Best Western Plus Manor House Hotel in Alsager celebrated the visitor attractions of Cheshire during English Tourism Week.

Throughout the week everyone checking into the hotel was handed a Favourite Days Out in Cheshire guide and by the end of the week 300 guides were given out. The hope is that mid-week corporate guests will decide to return to Cheshire on a leisure break with their families. Also that local people will stay in Cheshire for their weekend breaks and days out.

The Cheshire East hotel is also promoting local attractions including Little Moreton Hall, Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre, Tatton Park, Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker and local towns including Nantwich.

Sales manager Steve Alty said: “During the week our guests are staying here on business. They come from across the UK and overseas and we hope the guide will inspire them to return to Cheshire as tourists. ”

England’s visitor experiences and tourist attractions.

The privately-owned 57-bedroom hotel was Highly Commended in the large hotel category at the Marketing Cheshire tourism awards.

Visit www.manorhousealsager.co.uk to learn more about what BEST WESTERN PLUS Manor House Hotel has to offer.

English Tourism Week raises the profile of

Call the award-winning midwife! named as “Midwifery Service of the Year.”

The Unit, managed by Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust was named as the country’s best by the Royal College of Midwives as part of their 2015 Annual Midwifery Awards recognising excellence and innovation.

Mums-to-be have access to the best maternity care in the country, following the Leighton Hospital-based service being

Hospital boss Tracy Bullock said: “Despite being one of the smallest units in the North West, our maternity service has improved significantly over the past few

years and this award puts us firmly up there amongst the best services in the country.”

The recently refurbished Maternity Unit at Leighton Hospital provides care for all women, from low-risk births in the purpose-built Maternity-Led Unit, which offers birthing pools, ambient mood lighting, ensuite facilities and private courtyards, through to those who may require more attention in the traditional Labour Ward.

Specialists offer new support A new support group for patients with lung cancer has been established by Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Macmillan Cancer Support.

The group, named ‘Catch Your Breath’ by its members, is thought to be the first such group in the area and is available for all lung cancer patients to attend as well as their

family, friends and carers. Taking place on the fourth Wednesday of each month at the easily-accessible Crewe Fire Station, the free sessions will commence at 1.30pm and last for approximately two hours.

The first part of each session will feature a guest speaker, such as a Physiotherapist or Dietitian, followed by the opportunity for

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attendees to discuss their experiences with each other. A healthcare professional will also be present at each meeting to offer advice and support where necessary.

For further information contact Sue Stubbs or Lynn Thomas, Macmillan Lung Cancer Nurse Specialists based at Leighton Hospital, on 01270 612598

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28 MEMBERS NEWS

Quiz returns to support hospices A firm of insolvency specialists is planning to raise a bumper sum for charity with a British-themed Quiz.

Trentham. Proceeds will go to the hospices again this year.

Barringtons Corporate Recovery (BCR) will welcome teams of general knowledge buffs to Residence in Nantwich on April 29 for a night of brain-teasing fun, good food and networking.

“Patron Saints days are always a big occasion in Wales, Scotland and Ireland but George is often overlooked or ignored so I am delighted this annual event is at least changing things locally.”

The quiz, held on or around St. George’s Day each year, has become a popular night on the social calendar for local professionals.

BCR, which specialises in helping businesses in financial difficulty or facing insolvency, has offices in Nantwich, Newcastle, Newport and Market Drayton. It will provide a trophy and cover all the costs of the evening.

Last year saw more than 40 bankers, accountants and solicitors from firms across South Cheshire test their knowledge all things British including questions on history, sport, current affairs and music.

A total of £1000 was raised and split between St Luke’s Cheshire Hospice and the Douglas Macmillan Hospice at

BCR managing director Phil Wood, quiz master for the night, said: “The idea is to raise cash as much as we can for these incredible local hospices while marking St George’s Day in a memorable way.

To book visit www.bcr-insolvency.co.uk Barringtons Corporate Recovery Ltd managing director Phil Wood with Ben Rafferty of Residence in Nantwich

Get on your bike to help children The Up and Under Foundation is planning another cycling marathon to raise money for disadvantaged children.

Cyclists are being invited to saddle up for the Foundation Rides 2015 starting at Quakers Coppice in Crewe at 10.30am on June 21.

A spokesman said: “Do you want to get fit? Do you want to help local disadvantaged youngsters? Yes! Then put June 21 in your diary, get your bike out and join us, in Crewe, at the Foundation Rides 2015.

“With four rides to choose from, there really is something for everyone,100 miles over the Horseshoe Pass (Tough Stuff) or as a team of mates discovering 20km of local lanes with time for a pub stop (Foundation Rides Corporate Challenge). All we ask is that you raise some sponsorship for the Up and Under Foundation and have fun!”

The aim is to raise a big sum to give less well-off youngsters the chance to enjoy challenge and adventure.

To prepare for the day, join riders who go out regularly on a Thursday evening from the company’s offices, Easter onwards. They leave 5.30pm for 1-3 hours depending on available daylight.

For further details visit www.foundationrides.co.uk

Company reaches £100million milestone Nantwich-based independent financial adviser, Applewood Independent, is celebrating after its assets under advice topped £100million.

The growing firm specialises in investments and tax strategies for people across Staffordshire and Cheshire. Breaking the £100m barrier represents a 10% growth for Applewood over the past 12 months and more than a tenfold increase in the company’s value in seven years.

David Pritchard, managing director, Applewood Independent

David Pritchard, managing director of Applewood Independent, said: “Surpassing £100m of assets under advice is a real marker of success in the financial advice sector. I put our success down to our personal approach with clients, who are made

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to feel part of our family business, and the dedication and hard work of our team.

“As well as managing investments, we also add value by advising on tax strategies and cash planning for those coming up to or in retirement.

Clients in our average risk portfolios have seen returns of 9% net of charges over the past 12 months.”

For more information visit www.applewoodindependent.co.uk

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Crewe Clean Team and Storage Boost dash for cash Crewe Clean Team and Storage Boost combined forces to undertake a ‘100 Metre Trash Dash for Cash’ to support Red Nose Day.

Storage Boost’s Operations Director Katie Vost said: ‘We were really happy to take part, not only helping to raise funds for people in need but also to help our local community.”

The aim was to clear up the service road near the building site for the new lifestyle centre in Crewe which is 100 metres long and to raise money at the same time.

Storage Boost is a family-run storage facility which offers secure units for both commercial and domestic usage.

Contact Storage Boost on 01270 250000.

Uplift your business on the Cloud “Xero, cloud based accounting software, embraces the power of the internet so you can access your financial data when it suits you. It has all the day-to-day bookkeeping functions you need to run and manage your business, together with all the functionality you would expect in a modern accounting system, including daily automated bank feeds, invoicing, debtors, creditors, VAT, expense claims, fixed assets and is set up for multi-currency.

Crewe-based accountancy firm Alextra Accountants have introduced Cloud-based accountancy software Xero.

Many businesses are moving to the Cloud where you can store all your data, files and even your software allowing you to access it all from any computer or device, anywhere, at any time.

Director Matthew Price (pictured) said:

“The Cloud is still relatively new, but has been quickly adopted by a number of companies in order to streamline their operations, save money and generally make them more competitive.”

Alextra hope to bring this to not only its clients, but all other local businesses. It recently attended Xerocon 2015 - an event based in London, held by Xero. This is one of

the biggest events in the accounting industry and is a coming together of professionals, to enhance services and productivity.

He added: “The dynamics of running a business are changing. Times are moving forward and we want to be able to support our clients with innovative and practical ideas for running and managing a business successfully.”

“We will be helping clients by bringing their financials to their fingertips on their smartphones and tablets. Easy to use and connected to the banks and built in the Cloud. Xero will help revolutionize businesses, with real time access, to what they need when they need it.

For a free two months trial call Alextra on 01270 250800

What’s a new piece of business worth to you? • Want more sales?

Can you afford to miss your client’s calls and web enquiries? • Want happy clients?

How can you stop losing valuable work to your competitors? • Want to beat the competition?

Welcome to PA4You - Winners SCCCI Best Small Business Award 2014 South Cheshire’s Secret Sales & Support Service • • • • • • • • • • • •

Crewe based sales & call support Bespoke call handling & email response Packages starting from under £2 per day Covering your own office hours or up to 24/7 Award winning, hassle free, real business support • Personalised scripts for each individual clients business Managing diary bookings, order lines, CRM data entry Preferred Supplier Status with hundreds of SME businesses Service quality assurance levels amongst the highest in our industry Saving you operational disruption, valuable time and extra staff bills Acknowledged in excellence for turning our clients missed calls into new business Exclusive National Supplier status with the prestigious British Franchising Association

To book your 2 weeks free trial call us now on 01270 219500 or 0333 800 3690 • www.pa4you.co.uk

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30 BUSINESS NEWS

New angels wing in to support businesses from high-profile business backgrounds.

Pam, a former customer services manager at Wulvern Housing, said: “I know all too well the demands of running a business single-handedly.

“Last autumn I was at the point where I expanded or turned new business away, so I hand-picked a team of associate PA’s I trust to act as my ambassadors and make a real difference to the businesses we work with.”

Businesses in need of extra hands are finding support from a newly expanded team of business angels operating across South Cheshire and beyond.

Four associates have joined with another two on the way. All have worked in highly demanding roles, including the Foreign office, marketing and manufacturing. They are currently supporting businesses in Crewe, Nantwich, Northwich and Hazel Grove, near Stockport.

PA Today, founded by Pam Allen in 2011, has grown to include experienced associates

Pam added: “PA Today was founded in response to the growing need faced by

Pam Allen of PA Today with new recruits Karen Kelly, Jo Davies and Hazel Burgess

business owners for some regular but part time help. Many of our clients don't want the responsibility and cost of taking on employed staff. A 'Virtual PA' is the answer.”

Clients are offered all manner of administrative support from collating expenses, raising invoices and chasing debt to managing websites and social media.

The service is flexible. PA Today can work from your premises or offsite and help is on hand when you need it, from as little as half a day a week. It can also support people running businesses from home.

For more on PA Today call Pam Allen for an informal chat on 07938 549876 or visit www.patodayuk.co.uk.

Student gets hands on training at marketing firm Bare Bones Marketing has welcomed a new face from Belgium.

Aurelien Costermans, 23, has joined as a Marketing Intern whilst completing his third year in a Marketing and Business degree at the renowned Belgian business school EPHEC.

Aurelien Costermans presenting an update on his internship to fellow students at the Manchester Metropolitan University

He said: “EPHEC has a strong relationship with the Manchester Metropolitan University which welcomes several students from Belgium each year.

“Thanks to the partnership between the two universities, I was offered the opportunity to study marketing and English at the MMU, whilst also working at Bare Bones Marketing.”

Aurelien is gaining much experience at Bare Bones where his tasks have included blogging, SEO keywords, email marketing, social media management and web content management.

For more information on Bare Bones Marketing visit www.bbmarketing.co.uk

Be seen and safe in new Crewe-made product

A company specialising in high-visibility products is celebrating the launch of a new technical innovation.

VizLite® Dual Technology tape also known as VizLite® DT is manufactured by Crewebased Viz Reflectives which aims to revolutionise the High Visibility Clothing sector.

Already the company has signed up two exclusive partners to distribute and promote

VizLite® DT in the UK and North America and has interested parties in Australia, South Africa, Europe and Asia.

hour being the brightest but the afterglow is still visible to the naked eye for up to an eight hour period.”

Marketing spokeswoman Mandy Hitchinson said: “As part of health and safety high visibility warning clothes are worn by a variety of personnel that work in dangerous situations to increase their visibility. This is achieved by the bright fluorescent yellow, orange or red fabrics that make them stand out in the daytime and by the retro reflective bands of tape which reflect back the head lights of road vehicles to drivers on the roads.

The product has been developed by MD Nick Rowbottom who has a patent pending in major industrial global locations.

“VizLite® Dual Technology offers a third element of safety, phosphorescence, popularly known as ‘glow in the dark.’

“What makes VizLite® DT different to other glow in the dark products is the very high quality of rare earth pigments used meaning it has an extremely bright afterglow that can be seen from over 200 meters away, plus an afterglow that lasts up to eight hours. The glow will diminish exponentially with the first

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

The phosphorescent element has rare earth pigment which contains an active ingredient called Strontium Aluminate. When atoms of this material are exposed to UV light the elements enter what is called a state of excitation allowing them to absorb the energy from the UV light.

No batteries are needed and the product can be easily incorporated into existing high visibility garment designs Now on trial with major Traffic Management companies, it will go on show at the Traffex Exhibition to be held at the NEC Birmingham in April.

For more information visit www.vizreflectives.com

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BUSINESS NEWS

Business woman shines in award scheme Chamber member Joanne Grubb was shortlisted for the Forward Ladies Women in Business Awards (WIBA) 2015.

Joanne, owner of JG Creative - a Graphic Design and Strategic Marketing Agency – joined the elite of finalists from across the North West and Isle of Man. From all the entries received, 31 of the region’s top business women were selected in 12 categories by an independent panel of judges.

Based in Nantwich, JG Creative works for two local NHS Clinical Commissioning Groups, various charities including Henshaws, Mencap and Kings College London and the Recruitment and Employment Confederation.

Shortlisted in the Start-up Business Woman of the Year category, Joanne said: “I was thrilled to be shortlisted for this award.

I have been a proud Forward Lady since starting JG Creative and a lot of my business has come from successful networking.”

Forward Ladies runs its Women in Business Awards to celebrate the achievements of pioneering business women and recognise the vital contribution they make to our economy.

The winners were decided at an awards ceremony at The Midland Hotel in Manchester on March 27.

For more information on JG Creative visit www.JG-creative.co.uk

Bentley takes the fashion world by storm Luxury car company Bentley unveiled a stunning range of leather jackets, cashmere scarves and handbags at the Geneva Motor Show.

Designed to be beautiful without compromising practicality, the leather jacket is available for men and women. Like the cars which form their inspiration, each jacket is handcrafted, using a fold and stitch leather technique.

Bentley Collection items are available globally from Bentley dealers, or alternatively online at www.bentleycollection.com

Seen also was the new range of lightweight Bentley Cashmere scarves, designed and made in Britain. The cashmere is carefully sourced from Inner Mongolia and is meticulously inspected before manufacturing, ensuring consistency in each and every Bentley Cashmere scarf.

Also featured at the Bentley Boutique in Geneva was the much coveted Bentley Handbag collection, starting from £3,800.

Working with you to help your business grow At Howard Worth we know how important it is to develop strong relationships with you. We build up an extensive understanding of your business so that as well as preparing your accounts we work alongside you to help add real value to your business and bottom line.

• Accounts Preparation

• Succession and Disposal

• Tax Advice

• Financial Planning

• Business Planning

• Investments and Pensions

• Audits

• Management Accounts

• Capital Raising

• Payroll

For more details contact: Mike Doherty Howard Worth, Bank Chambers, 3 Churchyardside, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 5DE Email: mikedoherty@howardworth.co.uk Telephone: 01270 626162 www.howardworth.co.uk

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

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BUSINESS NEWS 33

Be Prepared For Auto-Enrolment, Local Accountants Warn Crewe-based accountancy firm, Banks Sheridan is forewarning small and medium sized businesses to get prepared for Auto Enrolment.

‘The Pensions Regulator’ is sending letters to all employers that haven’t staged and have a legal duty to do so. The letter states the ‘staging date’ and asks the employer to nominate a ‘key contact’.

Banks Sheridan director, David Morris (pictured) explains: “This letter is very important and must be kept safely as it contains crucial reference numbers. The ‘staging date’ is when the employer’s duties to make pension contributions into the employee’s scheme become active. The ‘key contact’ is responsible for managing the process on behalf of the company and can be someone within the organisation or external, such as the accountant.”

Auto Enrolment has been designed to encourage more individuals to start saving for retirement by making employers and the government (by providing tax relief) contribute alongside employees into a workplace pension.

David Morris adds: “Amongst the largest pension reforms in more than a century, Auto Enrolment represents a great deal of work for employers who now need to find the time as well as administrative and cash resources to meet their responsibilities.”

Staging dates have generally been introduced in an order based on businesses with higher numbers of employees. In 2015, about 45,000 companies are lined up to auto enrol staff. This increases to an average of 50,000 per month in 2016 but with an estimated 1.2 million employers due to stage over the next three years the ability of employers and pension providers to meet these commitments will be tested.

To find out more about the Auto Enrolment services Banks Sheridan provides visit www.banks-sheridan.co.uk

Office marks a ‘new era’ for the growing firm of a new era for the growing firm. “Our new location puts Martin & Co right in the heart of the professional services sector, with leading solicitors such as Hall Smith Whittingham and Hibberts LLP just across the road.

“There is a dedicated area where potential tenants and buyers can browse the many properties on offer. A new feature is the Property Investment Centre, where current and prospective landlords can browse available properties, assess the performance of their portfolio and discuss their future plans. The new investment service is offered to all South Cheshire investors, not just Martin & Co clients.”

Martin & Co has expanded into new premises on Nantwich Road following the firm’s best year to date.

Situated next to John Pass Jewellers at 173-175 Nantwich Road, the new Crewe office will allow the team to grow their specialism in property investment and residential sales, alongside the lettings business of nearly 1000 managed properties.

Sales and Investments manager Paul Rowley said: “We have a database of 40,000 potential investors and many of them are specifically targeting South Cheshire as a good place to have buyto-let properties. We have also seen a 50% growth in our residential sales over the last 12 months. The new facility provides an ideal platform from which to develop this further.”

Celebrating over ten years in the business, the move follows the Crewe and Nantwich firm’s best year to date. Last year saw a rapid expansion into sales and an average of two properties let each day.

The office also houses Martin & Co’s property management and accounts staff, so landlords and tenants are now able to pop in and discuss any maintenance or rental queries face to face.

Director Shaun Cafferty said that the new office marked the start

For more information call Martin & Co on 01270 500905

30 years roll on for tyre company Crewe Tyre & Exhaust Ltd, which supplies and fits all major brands of tyres and exhausts, is celebrating 30 years in business.

The firm was originally established in 1966 as a sub-division of the Harris Motor Company, Stoke-on-Trent but since 1985, the company has been owned and operated by Eric Harrison.

Eric (pictured) left his job as a sales rep for Michelin to open up his own business in 1985 and hasn’t looked back since. Eric says: “If I was given the chance to go back 30 years, I would have made the same decision again. We are proud to have been a family run, independent business for the past 30 years and this has always enabled us to provide a consistent and high standard of customer service. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our customers in Crewe and the surrounding area who have supported us and we look forward to providing service to our customers for many years to come.”

As a testament to the company’s commitment to providing a high level of service, it was once again awarded Michelin Certified Status in January 2015. This is awarded to tyre dealers who have reached a high standard in all areas of their business. Centres that achieve this status signify a centre of excellence within the industry, giving consumers confidence that a high level of quality and high service is provided at all times.

For more information visit www.crewetyres.co.uk

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34 BUSINESS NEWS / CHESHIRE CONNECT

Green light for community interest venture She said: “We were delighted to get the go-ahead from Ofsted some weeks ago but this permission was about to run out due to unforeseeable delays in the planning process.

“But thanks to Cheshire East Council, which pulled out all the stops to help, permission was granted in the 11th hour and we can now finally press ahead.”

Learning will follow Early Years Foundation guidelines and focus on literacy, art and mathematics as well as physical and emotional wellbeing with lots of opportunity to play in fresh air.

She added: “We do have an application in to Early Years which would double the number of sessions to 100 a day. We will hear in the next few weeks.

Plans to transform a landmark Crewe building into a much-needed nursery providing free places for children have been given the goahead.

“Meanwhile, we will press on with plans to make this a community hub where mums can not only find childcare but forge new friendships.

Now Chamber member Maria Bradbury, the founder of the Stepping Stones nursery chain, is looking forward to welcoming families to the West Street centre after winning planning permission at the 11th hour.

“Fabulous if the childcare gives them the opportunity to take on a job or free up time to study for new qualifications.

Known as Little Steps, the community interest venture will provide up to 50 free childcare sessions a day for children aged two to five as part of a Government-funded scheme.

The entrepreneur, who has nurseries in Weston and Stoke-on-Trent, is funding the building’s child-friendly make-over which will now get underway. Facilities will include an outdoor playground, learning zone and messy play area.

“So often it is the obstacle preventing mothers from doing this but what can they do when all the free nursery places are taken up locally? Hopefully Little Steps will be the answer.”

The building, opposite Bombardier, is called Metasi House and as well as housing Little Steps, it has provided office space for a recruitment company, engineering business and finance firm.

Little Steps will be up and running by the end of the summer and to register interest in a free child place email info@steppingstonesgroup.co.uk

Sharing your skills, talents and time?

Corporate and Social Responsibility (CSR) definition: ‘A concept whereby companies decide voluntarily to contribute to a better society and a cleaner environment.’

How do you research the social needs of your local community?

How do you locate those charities or voluntary organisations that already exist and are actively working in the community to help address those needs?

Cheshire Connect offers a cost-free service whose purpose is to help you identify the best way to achieve your CSR aims and develop a strategy and action plan that will make a real difference . . . and not merely a box ticking exercise, but to have a direct impact on real people within our community There is no cost to you or the charity to explore the possibilities. Cheshire Connect is generously supported and funded in Crewe and South Cheshire by Radius Solutions Limited Case Study

C H ESH I R E

CHARITY

NEEDS

MET BY

Cheshire Without Abuse

Business Strategy & Structure

Bentley Motors provided Coaching & Mentoring

Business and Charity: Sharing Skills

If you wish to find out more about how a clear, compatible and concise path towards achieving your CSR aims and objectives could be obtained by utilising the services of Cheshire Connect, please drop in, write, email or phone: Dianne Parrish on 07946 639394 • Email: dianneparrish@cheshireconnect.org Twitter: @ccdiannep • Web: www.cheshireconnect.org Cheshire Connect, c/o South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce, Lyme Building, Westmere Drive, Crewe Business Park, Crewe CW1 6ZD

Business and Charity: sharing skills www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

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