4FRONT - South Cheshire Chamber's Business Magazine (Winter '14 - '15 edition)

SOUTH CHESHIRE CHAMBER BUSINESS MAGAZINE Winter Edition 2014/2015

Jobs Boost at Bentley

Page 25

Dedicated Solely to Lettings No Sales No Compromise No Conflict of Interest

FOREWORD

New Year’s Message 2015

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Chamber Team

The Chamber is looking forward with optimism that 2015 will herald the start of an exciting new era in the economic growth of South Cheshire With a number of high profile projects already in the pipeline and a number of major infrastructure projects already well underway, there is plenty to be positive about and the prospects for investment in this area have never been better.

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

The challenge for local businesses will be to take advantage of the opportunities that will be created and to ensure that they play their full part in driving the growth agenda forward.

As we witnessed at our recent Business Awards we have a wealth of successful businesses and talented young individuals here in South Cheshire which bodes well for the future and I am sure that they will not be slow to respond. Next year, the Chamber itself will also be entering a new era of growth and development following the approval of proposals for us to take over responsibility for providing Chamber services in the Macclesfield area. As a result we will be changing our name to the South and North East Cheshire Chamber of Commerce which will put us in a much stronger and influential position for the future.

Jon Barnes Chamber Executive International Trade Co-ordinator http://www.sccci.co.uk/ portal/jon-barnes/

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/

So as we enter a period of great opportunity for South Cheshire, I would like to wish all of the business community a very successful and prosperous New Year and can assure you that the Board and staff at the Chamber will work tirelessly throughout the coming year to help you achieve your objectives.

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

Chairman South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Welcome to the Winter edition of 4Front, the magazine for businesses in South Cheshire Welcome to our first edition of South Cheshire Chamber’s 4FRONT magazine for 2015. The Christmas period allowed us all to reflect on our achievements in the previous year and plan for the forthcoming year.

Highlights for the Chamber last year included becoming one of only fifty-two Chambers of Commerce across the country to be accredited by the British Chambers of Commerce network, we opened an office in Nantwich to support businesses in the town, increased our activity supporting local businesses throughout the year and had our most successful Business Awards to date.

There is no reason why 2015 cannot be another successful year for the Chamber and more importantly South Cheshire.

This year will see a general election and the Chamber will continue to lobby our politicians to make sure the needs of our local businesses are catered for and they help develop an environment that is conducive to business growth. This includes a re-think on business rates, closing the gap between education and work and

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/

supporting our businesses to boost their exports.

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

This year the Chamber will continue to grow and develop its support for businesses in South Cheshire. So it is with great optimism and enthusiasm that the Chamber enters 2015 and we will be doing our utmost to ensure the views of business are heard. On behalf of the Chamber I would like to wish you a happy and prosperous year. Remember that the Chamber Team is here to assist you and your business, so if you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact us.

Vasiliki Prespari MMU Cheshire Student

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.

Chief Executive South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry @SCCCI_CEO

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

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 . .

C.A.P.A Cornerstones, 3 The Poplars, Wistaston, Crewe, Cheshire CW2 6QZ Telephone: 01270 651 507 hallettcapa@btinternet.com Consultant

Crewe Town Council St Pauls Centre, Hightown, Crewe, Cheshire CW1 3BY Telephone: 01270 756 975 rob.mackenzie@crewetowncouncil.gov.uk www.crewetowncouncil.gov.uk Local Authority

Tastebud Cafe & Catering Stapeley House, Stapeley Technology Park, London Road, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 7JW Telephone: 01270 624 834 tasty@tastebudcafe.co.uk www.tastebudcafe.co.uk Caterers/Sandwich Bar/Café

Albert’s Corner Pub Prince Albert Street, Crewe, Cheshire CW1 2DF Telephone: 01270 254 608 albertscornercrewe@gmail.com www.albertscorner.co.uk Public House & Restaurant

Business Growth Service Building 8, 7th Floor, Exchange Quay, Salford, Lancashire M5 3EJ Telephone: 0161 876 4922 events@winning-pitch.co.uk www.ga.businessgrowthservice.greatbusiness.gov.uk Business Management Consultant Goodwill Hall Wrexham Road, Faddiley, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 8JF Telephone: 01270 524 939 graham.barlow@virgin.net Registered Charity

Fluid Creative Communications 40 Coppice Road, Willaston, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 6QA Mobile: 07587 082 332 nick@fluidcomms.co.uk www.fluidphoto.co.uk Photographic

The Nags Head at Haughton Long Lane, Haughton Moss, Tarporley, Cheshire CW6 9RN Telephone: 01829 260 265 robert.broadbent@northcote.com www.nagsheadhaughton.co.uk Public House & Restaurant

Salt ‘n’ Spice Edleston Road, Crewe, Cheshire CW2 7EP Mobile: 07795 824 305 shaz_latif@hotmail.com www.saltnspiceonline.com Retail

Completely Clean 30 Hollybush Crescent, Willaston, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 6PP Mobile: 07973 367 852 admin@completely-clean.org www.completely-clean.org Cleaning Service

Moneycorp 2 Sloane Street, Knightsbridge, London SW1X Telephone: 0207 823 7400 barbara.sutton@moneycorp.com www.moneycorp.com Finance & Legal

Beauty by Naomi 117 Waverley Court, Crewe, Cheshire CW2 7BH Mobile: 07732 371 590 naomi@beautybynaomi.co.uk www.beautybynaomi.co.uk Health & Beauty

Richard Lee Project Planning 29 Clonners Field, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 7GU Telephone: 01270 619 366 rlpp@sky.com www.rlpp.co.uk Property Development

Cheshire Cheese 332 Crewe Road, Shavington, Crewe, Cheshire CW2 5AF Telephone: 01270 747 787 michael.carnell@sky.com www.cheshirecheesecrewe.co.uk Public House & Restaurant

For Candles of Nantwich Ltd 14 Hospital Street, Nantwich Cheshire CW5 5RJ Mobile: 07740 350 374 beth@forcandlesofnantwich.co.uk www.forcandlesofnantwich.co.uk Retail

Rose Gold Interiors 28 Hospital Street, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 5RP Telephone: 01270 620 750 info@rosegoldinteriors.co.uk www.rosegoldinteriors.co.uk Retail

Pollyanna’s Pooches 249 Manor Way, Crewe, Cheshire CW2 6PH Telephone: 01270 664 197 pollyannspooches@gmail.com Pet Services

R1 Digital Media The Smithy, Crewe Hall Farm, Old Park Road, Crewe, Cheshire CW1 5UE Telephone: 01270 232 007 hello@r1-agency.com www.r1-agency.com Marketing

Furniture Brothers Limited 22a Market Street, Crewe, Cheshire CW1 2EG Telephone: 01270 314 331 furniturebrothers@aol.co.uk www.furniturebrothers.co.uk Retail

Space Lettings and Property Management Ltd Unit 15 Macon Court, Crewe, Cheshire CW1 6EA Telephone: 01270 500 745 info@spacelettingsltd.com www.spacelettingsltd.com Property Services

Association of Accountive Technicians (AAT) Cheshire & Staffordshire Branch, 37 Southlands Road, Goostrey, Crewe, Cheshire CW4 8JF Telephone: 01477 549 155 pam@pameladyson.com www.aat.org.uk Charity

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

CHAMBER NEWS 5

CEC full steam ahead!

Forthcoming Events

2014 was a year in which we had much to celebrate.

Confirmation that high speed rail will come to Crewe has injected an enormous feeling of optimism and confidence in the South Cheshire business sector and beyond.

Since that announcement we have received further encouraging news with Bentley announcing 300 jobs and the creation of a research and development centre at Pyms Lane, while the Chancellor confirmed a £20m cash injection for our life science industry. But what I would really like to emphasise here are the enormous benefits that HS2 will deliver to the whole of the region, not just to Crewe.

What could the new HS2 Deal deliver?

A North West Hub Growth Corridor will extend to Stoke on Trent and Newcastle-under-Lyme in the south and to Northwich and beyond in the north.

Middlewich, Crewe and Congleton will enjoy huge growth and our target will be to ensure each key town will be within 15 minutes road or rail journey time of the Crewe Hub. Rail improvements will deliver faster connectivity, there will be investment in new stations and the Crewe to Stoke line will be upgraded to twin track.

Key strategic road connections for the corridor will be the A530 to M6 Junction 18 Crewe to Middlewich road; A500 Expressway Crewe to Stoke; A534/M6 Junction 17 Congleton to Crewe and the A54 - M6 link to Winsford.

Substantial parcels of land will be opened up for development as the expected migration of business into Cheshire East gathers momentum.

This summer will see 97 per cent of households able to access Superfast Broadband, meaning more people can choose to operate businesses from home if they wish.

Tackling fuel poverty is high on our agenda and as of this New Year Cheshire East residents have become the first in the country to be in a position to purchase low cost energy directly through their local authority as a result of the agreement we signed with Ovo Energy.

We expect to be able to freeze council tax for a fifth year running and we go into 2015 with the lowest unemployment level for many years.

Happy New Year!

Councillor Michael Jones Leader Cheshire East Council

JANUARY Chamber Portal User Workshop 22nd January at Pitman Training, Nantwich Final Friday 30th January at Nantwich Museum FEBRUARY Welcome Meeting 6th February at South Cheshire Chamber Members Evening ‘Negative Space’ Performance 11th February at MMU Axis Theatre, Crewe Chamber Portal User Workshop 19th February at Pitman Training, Nantwich Knowledge Exchange Forum Health & Wellbeing 24th February at South Cheshire Chamber Final Friday 27th February - venue to be confirmed MARCH Members Evening 5th March at Crewe Lyceum “Joseph and the amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat ”Musical Doing Business in South East Asia – Joint Export Event with West Cheshire Chamber 6th March at the Craxtonwood, Chester Welcome Meeting 6th March at South Cheshire Chamber Knowledge Exchange Forum Corporate Social Responsibility 18th March at South Cheshire Chamber Chamber Portal User Workshop 19th March at Pitman Training, Nantwich Final Friday 27th March - 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

Spring Issue due out 30th March 2015 Editorial Deadline 27th February 2015 Advertisement Deadline 6th March 2015 Contact tina.hankey@sccci.co.uk

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

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

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NETWORKING

Handelsbanken

Get that Friday feeling!

Final Friday networking events have proved popular throughout 2014.

Chamber members have seen behind the scenes of various venues in the last quarter including the Bear’s Paw at Warmingham, The Virgin Trains Talent Academy and Handelsbanken on Crewe Business Park.

Attendees viewed new offices at Handelsbanken, accommodation available at The Bear’s Paw and training rooms at the Talent Academy.

Chamber Events and Marketing Executive Madeleine Abbey said: “These are informal events and give members, long-standing and new, the chance to network at some fascinating local member venues.”

Handelsbanken

The events are held on the final Friday morning of each month.

For more information on Final Fridays 2015 call Madeleine on 01270 504700 Ext 20 Virgin Trains Talent Academy

The Bear’s Paw

Pleased to meet you!

A warm welcome is given to new members, current members and prospective businesses looking to join the Chamber at our Welcome Mornings.

A great year for making new contacts Hundreds of people from the business community have met and made new contacts during 2014, thanks to Chamber networking events. A sumptuous afternoon tea and tour of Crewe Hall and evening out to the Lyceum Theatre to see Woman in Black were among the highlights.

Events and Marketing Executive Madeleine Abbey said: “Informality is key to all our networking events and we encourage all members to come and try a Final Friday, a tour or come and meet the Chamber team at a Welcome Morning”.

The Chamber Business Luncheon at Wychwood Park Hotel and Business Awards at Crewe Hall also proved popular once again.

These are staged every first Friday of the month at our Crewe Business Park offices to greet the business community and highlight the benefits of being part of the Chamber.

Attendees hear about the various networking and promotional opportunities for members including the Chamber Portal, E-newsletter and 4Front magazine.

There’s also information on how the Chamber supports exporters and lobbies on a national scale for the interests of South Cheshire industry.

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

“Everyone in business from the one-man-band to the multi-national has an opportunity to meet, make new contacts and share ideas through the Chamber.”

For more information call Madeleine Abbey at the Chamber on 01270 504700 ext 20

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

NETWORKING 7

Car firm adds festive sparkle Rob Dawson, Cathy Tinsley and Maggie Williams with Rookery Hall general manager Daniel Hodson and South Cheshire Chamber Chief Executive Paul Colman in the driving seat

A Christmas event at Rookery Hall brought the networking calendar to a close for 2014.

Generously sponsored by Mercedes-Benz of Stoke, the event attracted more than 60 guests from all areas of enterprise including law, accounting, banking, catering and retail.

Chamber Events and Marketing Executive, Madeleine Abbey, said: “The Christmas networking event is always a highlight of the year and was again held in the old part of the hotel which provided a beautiful festive setting.

“It brought another hard-working year to a close for the business community and gave them an opportunity not only to make new contacts, but to enjoy the spirit of Christmas in informal surroundings.”

Mercedes-Benz of Stoke supported the event for a fifth year.

General manager Rob Dawson said: “As a business based just 15 miles from Crewe we are very keen to meet local businesses and contribute to the South Cheshire area, so we were very pleased to support the Chamber’s December event again.”

elen nd H et a lthcare e r t S a ma tc h e Gem e of c Low

Feeling festive…David Morris of Banks Sheridan with Tim Crighton and Dave Clapp of County Insurance

Preparations are underway to add more events to the networking calendar for 2015, so it’s worth checking the Chamber website and looking out for email bulletins.

For more information on events or membership call Madeleine Abbey on 01270 504700 ext 20

Mercedes-Benz of Stoke

Shaun Cafferty of Martin& Co, Helen Gould of PA4You and Sue Lock of Wulvern enjoy the Christmas lunch

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

The event drew a crowd to Rookery Hall

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CHAMBER NEWS

From Westminster with Edward Timpson MP I wanted to let you know about some more good news on the jobs front.

74,000 businesses in the North West are already benefitting from the new Employment

grants to employers, and from April next year employer’s national insurance contributions for those under 21 will be abolished, making it easier for businesses to take on more young people.

So if you're looking for work, now is a good time. Local unemployment and youth unemployment keep falling, and the number of oppor tunities keep increasing.

Allowance, which takes up to £2,000 off the National Insurance bill of every employer. It means that a business could now hire someone on £22,400 a year without paying any employer national insurance at all.

To do what I can to help, I organised my third annual Jobs Fair at Crewe Alex in September.

In total up to 1.25 million employers will benefit from the allowance, with 450,000 taken out of paying the tax on jobs altogether. Reducing tax on jobs means that employers can afford to employ more people, creating jobs here in Crewe and Nantwich, with the regular pay packet and the peace of mind for the future that comes with it.

Also to help small businesses take on apprentices, the Government is providing an extra £85 million for over 100,000

A happy ‘tail’ from new business owner

The companies there were advertising jobs and giving advice on a whole variety of different careers. There was also information on apprenticeships, training and education.

But don’t take my word for it - read what the Crewe Chronicle had to say about it.

Edward Timpson can be contacted at 30 Victoria Street, Crewe CW1 2JE, on 01270 501725, or through edwardtimpson.com

Looking good with Naomi Introducing new Chamber member Naomi Holliday – a beauty and holistic therapist based in Crewe.

A former police officer has turned her love of dogs into a successful venture, thanks to help from the Chamber.

Crewe-based Elaine, who runs Pawfectly Calm Dog Grooming, has taken to the road in a brightly-coloured van after receiving support from our loans scheme.

She said: “After leaving the police I toyed with a number of business ideas but really wanted to work with animals, especially dogs. The pet market is a strong one. Even in a recession people will spend on the much-loved four-legged members of their family. But it’s not all about profit. I love meeting dogs and their owners and find everyday rewarding.”

Elaine completed a course in dog grooming at Reaseheath College and started her venture on a part-time basis grooming pets for friends.

She added: “It’s important to strike up a rapport with the dogs.

They often feel more comfortable being close to familiar surroundings and this encourages owners to be there during the washing and grooming process. Seeing dogs approach the van with tails wagging is such a bonus.”

Chamber Business Loans Executive Richard Weilding said: “In deciding to lend to Elaine we were impressed by her enthusiasm and the fact that she had tested the waters before going fully into the business venture. She received a staggering number of testimonials and we felt confident that once she had acquired her mobile facility, she would hit the ground running which is exactly what she did.”

For more information call her on 07414 887 236

With more than 30 years in the industry, Naomi provides treatments and complementary therapies to a wide number of clients across Cheshire and neighbouring counties.

She works as a freelance therapist, visiting homes, spas and leisure facilities - often outside the usual beauty salon hours.

She said: “The client is always central to my business and so beneficial treatments are introduced that aim to improve health and wellbeing, alongside that, products are specifically chosen to improve and maintain skin and nail health.

“I have chosen to use Neal's Yard Remedies Organic as a skincare range as approximately 64% of what goes on the skin goes into the skin so it's vital that no unnecessary chemicals are used.”

When it comes to nails she favours ‘natural’ and works with clients to get their own nails to optimum condition, overcoming damage caused by nail-biting and enhancements. Products used include Alessandro of Germany, one of the leading nail companies in the world.

Other treatments include ear candling, Indian head massage, full body massage, reflexology, aromatherapy, tailored body wraps and the full range of Lava shells including glacial, relax and rescue.

She added: “The beauty industry has been my career and passion for over 30 years and this reflects in my treatments and empathy in dealing with clients on a one to one basis.”

Naomi can be booked for special occasions such as hen and bridal parties or pamper sessions with a few friends round.

For more information call her on 07732 371590

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

PORTAL NEWS / CHAMBER NEWS 9

Introducing the Chamber Board Drawn from all sectors of the community, Board members are responsible for the strategic planning of our not-for-profit organisation. Volunteers, they work together to promote South Cheshire and grow its economy.

always been a Chamber member since day one and have often used its mentoring and business training and advice support. Also we have received two loans for when we were expanding from the Chamber’s local business loan fund. I find the networking events very useful too. It's good to get out of the office and see what's available locally to help with our continuing growth needs.”

Here we meet our final Board member, Helen Gould, of the successful telephone answering business PA4You in Crewe.

For more information on joining the Chamber call Membership Co-ordinator Tina Hankey on 01270 504700

Helen Gould

THE BOARD

Originally from Liverpool, Helen has lived in Wistaston for 26 years and is active in several local initiatives including helping at Wistaston Community Council events.

John Dunning - Chairman at Nantwich Football Club

Each edition we have been introducing you to members of the Chamber Board.

Shaun Cafferty - Joint Managing Director at Martin&Co Keith Cutler - Solicitor at Hibberts LLP Helen Gould - Founder of PA4You

She trained as a Legal Accounts Manager and started, PA4You, to support local business growth needs. She says: “I wanted our SME's to be able to give their clients great customer service and also give the SME the extra sales, operational and cost savings benefits this way of working brings. We now have 26 staff and 500 clients internationally.”

Patrick Grange - Owner of an Energy Auditing company Peter Groves - Cheshire East councillor Sue Lock - CEO at Wulvern Gill Roberts - Senior Partner at Magenta LLP Philip Taylor - Accountant based in Nantwich Andy Wood - Managing Director at Storage Boost

Helen values being a member of the Board. She added: “It certainly gives me an insight into the local business community and the great opportunity for growth that Crewe and it's businesses have over the next 10 -20 years, especially with the HS2 plans.”

Diane Wright - Associate Dean at Manchester Metropolitan University

When it comes to the South Cheshire Chamber she says: “We have

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

MEMBERS NEWS / CHAMBER NEWS 11

Storage Boost supports local toy appeal Storage Boost in Crewe teamed up with CVS Cheshire East and the staff at AstraZeneca, Alderley Park to collect over 1,600 toys for vulnerable children and young people in Crewe and across Cheshire East.

It volunteered to be the hub for people to drop their toys off, happily donating a large self-storage unit. Katie Vost, Operations Director at Storage Boost Crewe, said: “It was our pleasure to help create a better Christmas for so many children in our area - the campaign was a great success.’

Around 60 charities and organisations working with families and children in need received the toys and gifts this year – these included a variety of children’s centres, hospices and food banks. Next year, it is hoped to help even more local families by making the appeal even bigger and collecting more toys.

For more information on Storage Boost call 01270 250000

Companies Tee Up at the Chamber's Golf Day Golfers from across the region were in full swing at the South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce's Annual Golf Tournament 2014.

Representatives from different companies including South Cheshire College, Poole Alcock Solicitors, Wulvern Housing and Bentley Motors teed it up at the annual event which took place at Crewe Golf Club and raised money for The Wingate Centre charity.

Poole Alcock won the team prize with a total of 86 Stableford points while the Chairman’s prize for the best individual score went to Kevin Catterall from Team County Insurance.

There were also prizes for ‘Nearest the Pin’ sponsored by The Travel Visa Company on the 14th hole and the ‘Longest Drive’ sponsored

by Crewe Alexandra Football Club on the 18th hole.

Chamber Chairman John Dunning presented prizes in the evening after a three course meal.

Winners of the day: Poole Alcock with the prestigious Bentley Trophy, presented by Chamber Chairman John Dunning and Chamber Chief Executive Paul Colman

Need a loan? The Chamber can help . . .

As we enter a New Year it is perhaps a good time to think about innovation that will take our businesses forward for 2015.

The fact that we cannot get our heads round these things flying above us is arguably no different to our original perception of the potential for mobile phones and Sat Nav.

Most new ideas require a good deal of commitment over and above any initial thoughts. Nokia were advised by management accountants in the 80s that there was a potential for them to sell 10,000 mobile phone units a year. In 2013 there were 1.8 billion sold worldwide of which Nokia contributed 250 million.

Domino’s have not ruled out pizza delivery by drone and Amazon recognises the potential seriously enough to have committed significantly to its research.

These represent significant innovations where perhaps for ourselves, all we need do is look at what we are doing and produce a minor tweak to make a difference.

Business Loans Executive Richard Weilding

Similarly an International PLC sold its Stoke based subsidiary in the early 90s to the directors for £1 as they perceived that sales potential for its product was limited to the emergency services. The business was an innovator in satellite navigation.

A good deal of current thinking surrounds the use of drones in everyday life. Make no mistake there is considerable use of the device in agriculture and remote delivery already and most recently there was significant use during the industrial unit siege outside Paris.

The Chamber has supported innovation during 2014 and will do so again in 2015. If you have a plan that needs investment to get it off the ground then contact us at the Chamber and see where we can take it.

As for myself. I do feel that there remains tremendous potential for drones and will continue to monitor the product’s development. I do however admit to being slightly wary of anything that can be an eye in the sky reporting my whereabouts when I am out and arguably monitors my every move. Mrs W however sees things in a completely different way.

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

12 CHAMBER NEWS / MEMBERS NEWS

Fun and educational votes Vasiliki MMU Cheshire student Vasiliki Prespari had hands on experience of helping to organise a major event during her work placement at the Chamber of Commerce.

Here she talks about her experience.

“I was chosen by the Chamber to contribute to organising the Business Awards 2014. Working for almost two months alongside experienced and professional people, my experience there couldn't be more educational. I learnt a lot during this insightful journey such as values of working relations and cooperation between colleagues. I was able to mainly work on the promotion side of the Awards practising Microsoft Office and other formats to deliver my projects. Given my own office with a computer and

every other information needed for my research, and therefore my work, I was able to dedicate my working hours to bring together ideas and produce essential projects. The outcome was pleasing and successful! I am glad I was part of a hard working team and I would like to thank the Chamber for offering me the opportunity to explore my abilities and develop new, useful skills. It was a fun experience not to be forgotten!”

Vasiliki Prespari

Vasiliki has now returned to her English and Film & Television studies at the MMU.

Recruit business leaders of the future Trevor Langston has joined South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce to help develop closer links between young employers and young people. Hundreds of young people leave schools, colleges and university in the South Cheshire area with excellent skills, attitudes, qualifications and a can do attitude.

Your business would benefit from having them with you.

The South Cheshire (and indeed British Chamber of Commerce) firmly state in their Business plan for Britain that we need to “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.”

If you are interested in taking on an apprentice then get in touch by contacting Trevor. It is easy to take on an apprentice and the

Trevor Langston

A core of people across the town have started up the Youth Employment Partnership which has brought together the Town and County Council, South Cheshire Chamber, employers, training providers, schools and colleges, with the aim of doing just that.

At the Chamber we want to help build this momentum and goodwill that clearly exists across the town we have taken Trevor on to do this. Having been a secondary head teacher and worked in the Senior Leadership Team at three secondary schools within the North West, all Business and Enterprise Specialists, he has lots to offer.

His experience will be a real asset to the Chamber in helping businesses to both consider taking on a young person as an apprentice and also to assist members in helping to further develop the skills of our next generation of employees and business people.

Pupils on an Employment Readiness Programme event held at the National Sales Academy in Crewe

support available make it less costly than you might think.

Alternatively, if you would like to help with providing opportunities to further develop the skills and experiences of our young people then he would also love to hear from you. There are many ways that you could do this., and you may well have your own ideas. For example, working with Crewe Town Council and many other partners he has established the Crewe Employment Readiness Programme and we are looking for other providers, big and small, to get involved.

Young people from all of the four secondary schools in Crewe are undertaking the programme with a number of events with businesses including National sales Academy, Total People, Virgin Trains, South Cheshire College, Momentum Factor and Cheshire East Council.

Trevor can be contacted on 07595 496400, e-mail him on trevor.langston@sccci.co.uk or ring the Chamber. Trevor looks forward to hearing from you

Fighting fit in 2015 Mark Russell former World Thai and Kick Boxing Champion and owner of The Team Chongi Academy in Crewe is celebrating the expansion of the gym and introduction of THE PITT. With the help of a Community Grant from Cheshire East, Mark (pictured) has employed local people to build a new fitness area equipped with the latest and most effective equipment.

He said: “We have designed THE PITT area as an extension to our existing gym. It reflects what we already stand for - Persistence, Integrity, Tenacity and Teamwork - (to give the name PITT) while giving people greater flexibility to try new things.”

More coaching staff have been employed to create a venue offering local people support as they strive towards their fitness goals.

The timetable includes Thai Boxing, Cheshire East ABA Amateur Boxing, Brazilian Jui Jitsu, MMA, Circuits, Kettlebells, Pilates and Power Development.

For more information visit www.teamchongi.com

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

SOUTH CHESHIRE CHAMBER BUSINESS AWARDS 2014

13

Stars shine at sell-out ceremony Enterprise excellence across a wide variety of sectors was celebrated in style at the South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce Business Awards 2014.

The 18th annual awards shone the spotlight on star newcomers to the business community as well as the major employers and growing firms which contribute to the economic growth of the area. Accolades for entrepreneurial talent were handed out in ten categories during another sell-out and exciting ceremony at Crewe Hall.

Iconic breakfast foods brand, Mornflake, was named Exporter of the Year after flying the flag for Crewe around the world. The award, sponsored by Bentley Motors, paid tribute to the firm’s success on a global scale which sees its products enjoyed in over 60 countries.

Meanwhile Bentley was honoured for its Contribution to the Community. Working alongside Cheshire Connect, it has given manpower and expertise to help raise awareness and funding for Cheshire Without Abuse.

Liz Southall and Paul Boniface of RedShift Radio were the comperes for the awards evening.

The luxury car firm also won the Health and Wellbeing Award, sponsored by ctchealthcare. Programmes have been developed to encourage healthy lifestyle choices among its huge workforce including one-to-one sessions offering advice on fitness, sleep and nutrition.

The pair have several years of radio broadcasting experience between them and have hosted the business awards on previous occasions. Following presentations by sponsors, the winners were interviewed briefly on stage by Liz.

Picking up the Cheshire East Council-sponsored Start Up Business of the Year award was the Nantwich Road-based Beer Dock which specialises in beer from independent breweries around the world.

Young Business Person of the Year, sponsored by KPI Recruiting, went to Mike Lawson, digital director at trCreative in Nantwich where a small but talented team provide graphic design and website services.

The Smarter Travel Award, sponsored by the Smarter Ways to Travel initiative went to South Cheshire College for its commitment to sustainable travel and various schemes to encourage cycling and use of public transport.

Best Small Business, sponsored by the South Cheshire Chamber Local Business Loan Fund, was awarded to PA4You after a record year in which the Crewe business has doubled its workforce to handle a growing demand for its telephone answering services.

Scooping Employer of the Year, sponsored by Manchester Metropolitan University, was the Crewe-based Swansway Group for a second year. A happy, motivated workforce has also placed it in the Sunday Times ‘Best Companies to Work For’ list.

Excellence in Customer Service, sponsored by Jones Sheridan Financial Consulting, recognised accident management company Kindertons of Crewe which has helped some 250,000 motorists since being founded in 1993.

Best Large Business of the Year, sponsored by RBS Corporate Banking South Cheshire, was Return on Investment Limited (ROI) which works with 21 of the world’s top automotive brands from its base in Nantwich where 200 people are employed.

Paying tribute to all the high-calibre entrants, Chamber Chairman, John Dunning, said: “The awards show what a tremendous range of successful businesses we have here in South Cheshire. It is encouraging to see so many of them led by younger people which bodes well for the future.”

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

14 SOUTH CHESHIRE CHAMBER BUSINESS AWARDS 2014

South Cheshire Chamber Business Award Winners Young Business Person of the Year

Best Large Business of the Year

Mike Lawson of trCreative

Return on Investment Limited

Mike is the Digital Director and a shareholder at trCreative, taking the lead on providing customers with strong digital channels to support their businesses and objectives. trCREATIVE is a small, dynamic design and digital agency based in Nantwich. With a dedication to true creativity, as well as a devotion to cutting edge digital solutions, we strive to make sure our customers are seen at their very best both online and offline.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, ROI is a Nantwich born success story. Founded in the town in 2004, ROI has grown rapidly and now employs over 200 people. They have already established themselves as the UK’s top sales and marketing experts with long-term contracts with 21 of the world’s major automotive brands, providing services such as CRM systems, lead generation, sales support, consulting, sales training, research and data analytics.

Best Start Up Business of the Year

Employer of the Year

Beer Dock

Swansway Group

Beer Dock is a unique retail concept specialising in bottled, cans and draught beer from independent breweries from around the world.

Swansway is a family-owned and run motor retail group with 19 dealerships stretching from Birmingham in the South to Preston in the North, with the head office in Crewe. These centres sell and service new and used vehicles across 11 brands, Audi, VW, Honda, Peugeot, SEAT, FIAT, Land Rover, Jeep, Citroen, Alfa Romeo and VW Commercial Vehicles. Swansway is currently number 32 in the Sunday Times Best Companies to Work For List and number 13 in the Great Places to Work Survey.

Beer Dock stocks over 600 different beers and has stocked over 1,500 different beers since opening. The shop on Nantwich Road combines the convenience of an off licence with the charm of a micropub.

Contribution to the Community

Exporter of the Year

Bentley Motors Limited

Mornflake

Cheshire Connect is a way for businesses and their staff to support local society by donating some of their skills to not-for-profit organisations. It offers a great opportunity for businesses of all sizes to demonstrate a genuine commitment to corporate social responsibility.

The award celebrates and recognises businesses that have shared their skills and knowledge for free to support local voluntary, community and charity organisations. Bentley Motors was honoured for its time commitment, skills shared and advice offered to Cheshire Without Abuse.

Smarter Travel Award South Cheshire College South Cheshire College is the home of post-16 education in Crewe and Nantwich and one of the leading Further Education colleges nationally. The college has world class, inspirational facilities which are the result of a recent £75m investment. These include a huge sports arena, theatre, state-of-the-art workshops, three-storey library and café outlets creating a wonderful environment in which to study as well as being a fantastic community use facility. The College were awarded for their sustainable travel schemes.

Best Small Business of the Year PA4You Telephone Answering and Sales Support Services

Mornflake has been exporting its cereals all over the world for 50 years. In the last 12 months, millions of products have been exported to over 60 counties including China where Mornflake is the market leader. Special export packs are devised for each market with the name Crewe prominently displayed, taking the town’s name all over the world. Oats, grown on farms in Cheshire and milled in Crewe, can be found in many household products and cereal products all over the world.

Health and Wellbeing Award Bentley Motors Limited Bentley Motors was founded by W.O. Bentley over 90 years ago.

During the 1920s Bentley went from strength to strength. Racing triumphs proved reliability, speed and incredible performance. These were the years of the Bentley Boys and included five Le Mans victories and a successful return in 2003 secured the sixth historical win. True to the unique heritage, contemporary Bentleys are capable of extraordinary speeds, and are exquisitely handcrafted and are beautifully engineered. Owned by Volkswagen AG since 1998, Bentley Motors remains the definitive British luxury car company.

The organisation was rewarded for their fitness and wellbeing programmes for employees.

Excellence in Customer Service Kindertons Limited

PA4You supports over 400 businesses, both locally and nationally, with a bespoke telephone mail response and sales support service.

A professional team is available to answer calls when clients are unable to. They have the knowledge, technology, training and expertise to answer a business’s calls exactly as the client requires.

Capturing messages, taking enquiries, handling bookings, making sales, completing customer care surveys, diverting calls, extending business opening hours and more.

Since Kindertons was established in 1993, it has helped almost a quarter of a million people back on the road after a road traffic accident that wasn’t their fault. In addition to headquarters in Crewe, it has transport depots throughout the UK supporting customers nationwide. The main goal is to limit the stress customers experience following an accident and to minimise any inconvenience suffered. The organisation was recognised for its commitment to Customer Service.

An appeal to raise money for a new MRI scanner at Leighton Hospital was given a £700 boost at the South Cheshire Chamber Business Awards. Guests gave generously to a collection following the presentations.

With the hospital’s current MRI scanner working to full capacity between 8am and 8pm, seven days a week, a new MRI scanner is needed to allow the hospital to continue delivering first-class healthcare to over 300,000 people living in Cheshire, Staffordshire and surrounding areas.

To find out more, please visit www.mchcharity.org

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

SOUTH CHESHIRE CHAMBER BUSINESS AWARDS 2014 15

Best Start-Up Business of the Year Sam McGarrigle and Daisy Slater of Beer Dock picking up the Cheshire East Councilsponsored Start Up Business of the Year award from Cllr David Brown

Young Business Person of the Year Mike Lawson of trCreative receives his award from Steve O’Neill and Ryan Jardine of sponsors KPI Recruiting

C H ESH I R E

Business and Charity: Sharing Skills

Best Small Business of the Year South Cheshire Chamber Loans Executive Richard Weilding presents the award to Helen Gould and Joanne Bennett of PA4You

Best Large Business of the Year Steve Jackson of sponsors RBS Corporate Banking South Cheshire presents the award to Rachel Stones of Return on Investment

Employer of the Year David Smyth of Swansway Group takes the accolade for a second year from John Morris of sponsors Manchester Metropolitan University in Crewe

Exporter of the Year Sally Hepton and Marlies Rogait of sponsors Bentley Motors Limited present the award to Catherine Sadler of Mornflake in Crewe

Health and Wellbeing Award Rick Carter and Sarah McGovern of sponsors ctchealthcare present the award to Marlies Rogait and Amy Collins of Bentley Motors Limited

Excellence in Customer Service Leanne Miller and Cat Bernal are presented with the award for Kindertons by Richard Griffith of sponsors Jones Sheridan Financial Consulting

Smarter Travel Award Mike Finney accepts the award for South Cheshire College from Cllr David Topping and Clair Visco of the Smarter Ways to Travel initiative

Contribution to the Community Donna Okell of Cheshire Connect presents the award to Angela Hodgson of Bentley Motors Limited for the company’s support with charity

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

16 SOUTH CHESHIRE CHAMBER BUSINESS AWARDS 2014

South Cheshire Chamber Business 2014 All the finalists were congratulated on their contribution to the business community Young Business Person of the Year Sponsored by KPI Recruiting Limited

Exporter of the Year Sponsored by Bentley Motors

Final Entrants:• Heather Maher of Crewe and Nantwich Ladies Bootcamp • Paul Shawcross of ctchealthcare • Kevin Murphy of Employment Law Solutions LLP • Daniel Taylor of The Travel Visa Company • Mike Lawson of trCreative

Winner: Mornflake

Winner: Mike Lawson of trCreative Best Start Up Business of the Year Sponsored by Cheshire East Council

Health and Wellbeing Award Sponsored by ctchealthcare Final Entrants:• Bentley Motors Limited • Pathways Community Interest Company • Supported Community Business (Special Needs) Limited • Swansway Group • The Up and Under Group Winner: Bentley Motors Limited

Final Entrants:• Beer Dock • Cartridge Cosmos Limited • Enterprise Japan – UK • JG Creative Communications Limited • Momentum Factor Europe Limited • Moss Bikes • One To One Learning

Excellence in Customer Service Sponsored by Jones Sheridan Financial Consulting Final Entrants:• Baywater Healthcare • Construction Linx Limited • Crewe Lyceum Theatre • Kindertons Limited • The Travel Visa Company

Winner: Beer Dock Smarter Travel Award Sponsored by Smarter Ways to Travel

Winner: Kindertons Limited Best Large Business of the Year Sponsored by RBS Corporate Banking South Cheshire

Final Entrants:• Baywater Healthcare UK Limited • Community Recycle Cycles • ctchealthcare • Expert Logistics • Manchester Metropolitan University • South Cheshire College • The Up and Under Group

Final Entrants:• Crewe Hall Q Hotels • Return on Investment Limited (ROI) • Swansway Group • Wulvern Housing Limited

Winner: South Cheshire College

Winner: Return on Investment Limited (ROI)

Best Small Business of the Year Sponsored by South Cheshire Chamber Local Business Loan Fund

Contribution to the Community Sponsored by Cheshire Connect Winner: Bentley Motors Limited

Final Entrants:• Acorn Occupational Health Limited • Bare Bones Marketing • Benedicts Catering Ltd T/A The White Lion • Blitz Fireworks Limited • Construction Linx Limited • Overwater Marina Limited • PA4You Telephone Answering and Sales Support Services • Sue Roberts Utility Warehouse, The Discount Club Authorised Distributor • The Travel Visa Company

CH ESH I R E

Business and Charity: Sharing Skills

A big thank you to all our Awards Sponsors & Judges: Liz Southall and Paul Boniface of Redshift Radio, Crewe Hall Hotel, Cloverleaf Images, Code Audio Visual, Concorde Trophies, Reaseheath College, Floristry and Floral Design, The Printing House, Pure PR

Winner: PA4You Telephone Answering and Sales Support Services Employer of the Year Sponsored by Manchester Metropolitan University Final Entrants:• Crewe Hall Q Hotels • Return on Investment Limited (ROI) • Swansway Group Winner: Swansway Group

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

CHAMBER NEWS 17

Emerging Markets: Why UK companies must look outside Euro Zone to grow their exports range of business support to their exporters in high-growth markets than the UK. They do this through strong private sector business networks, primarily Chambers of Commerce.

According to the International Monetary Fund, developed markets will grow around 2.3% in 2015, with the Euro zone particularly showcasing a sluggish recovery and reaching just over 1.4%. On the other hand, emerging markets, even with giants such as Brazil and Russia slowing down, are still estimated to grow at a 5.4%. Opportunities for UK exports growth in emerging markets is huge, especially when countries such as China, India, Indonesia, Mexico and South Korea are going through major reforms which will make their economies more open and attractive for UK exports. So, whilst UK Exports have steadily increased over the last decade, the EU27 remains our main export destination but with a sluggish recovery projected for 2015, there is a call for UK exporters to look outside the Eurozone to tap into the business opportunities emerging markets are offering. Whether you are a service company or a manufacturer, it’s never been a greater time to start exporting or grow further into international markets.

With a clear understanding on how the global economy is shaping and the opportunities out there for UK’s great products and services, in late 2012, the Prime Minister launched the International UK Business Networks initiative, which aims to transform the support available for British SMEs seeking to do business in high-growth, hard-to-access markets across the world. It is a crucial part of the drive to double the UK’s annual exports to £1 trillion and to increase the number of UK exporters by 100,000 by 2020.

The International UK Business Networks initiative responds to this challenge, by strengthening the capability of the UK’s own global business-to-business support network. The initiative brings together overseas British Chambers and Business Groups in 41 markets worldwide – facilitated and led by a partnership of the British Chambers of Commerce, UK Trade and Investment, and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

In time, and with sustained investment from both the UK government and the private sector, this initiative will develop a strong and practical platform for UK exporting – focused directly on the needs of UK businesses seeking to succeed in markets across the globe. Through the initiative, UK businesses will benefit from:

WHERE ARE THE MARKETS WHERE BUSINESSES CAN GET SUPPORT? Piloting underway in Overseas Chambers and Business Groups in 41 hard to access, high growth markets. Currently working actively with 21 of them, but looking to further expand in the next 2 years as follows: •

ASIA: China, Taiwan, Vietnam, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia, Japan, India, Indonesia, South Korea, Philippines, Pakistan, Kazakhstan

•

MIDEAST: UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia

•

EUROPE: Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Romania, Turkey

•

AFRICA: Nigeria, South Africa, Angola, Morocco, Algeria, Ghana, Mozambique, Kenya, Tanzania LATIN AMERICA: Colombia, Mexico, Brazil, Chile

•

Better practical information on business opportunities in new markets

•

Services, support and advice on the ground in-market

•

•

Office space in British Business Centres in some countries, and

•

A global British business support network, operating at home and overseas

North West Accredited Chambers of Commerce are working together to bring to you market specialist from the above countries, so keep an eye on our calendar of events:

WHY IS IT BEING CREATED? To help the UK achieve a difficult challenge: increasing exports to 1trn and increasing the number of UK exporters by 100,000 companies, a goal shared across the UK government and private sector To deliver the best possible services to small- and medium-sized businesses seeking help to enter new markets To share responsibility between government and the private sector, with more practical B2B support for companies, and more government support for major strategic opportunities WHO IS BEHIND THIS INITIATIVE? An innovative partnership of the British Chambers of Commerce, UK Trade and Investment, and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office – private and public sector working together

The UK has great businesses. Yet our share of trade in high-growth markets is weaker than many of our key competitor countries.

What’s more, our competitors offer a wider

Strongly backed by the Prime Minister, the Foreign Secretary and Lord Livingston, as well as his predecessor Lord Green, who spearheaded its development

Bringing together overseas British Chambers of Commerce and British Business Groups – some long-standing, others newly-formed – as well as accredited Chambers of Commerce and other business organisations in the UK

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

21st January: Doing Business in UAE Webinar (2:00p.m UK time) Register interest by emailing jon.barnes@sccci.co.uk 3rd & 5th February: High Growth Markets Webinar Programme Register interest by emailing jon.barnes@sccci.co.uk 17th February: Doing Business in LATAM (Day event) Express interest by emailing jon.barnes@sccci.co.uk 24th February: Doing Business in the Middle East (Day Event) Express interest by emailing jon.barnes@sccci.co.uk 6th March: Doing Business in South East Asia (Day Event) Express interest by emailing jon.barnes@sccci.co.uk YOUR CONTACT IN THE NORTH WEST: Are you a new exporter or experienced one who is interested in any of these markets and requires support? Then contact, Susana Córdoba, NW Regional Coordinator – International UK Business Network Initiative E: jon.barnes@sccci.co.uk Telephone: 01270 504 700 ext 21 Twitter: @sccci_export

18 MEMBERS NEWS

Older people enjoy a cracking Christmas party

Got business questions but no one to ask?

Want to meet like-minded people to help you get ahead in business?

Want to make contacts with the local business community?

Want to raise your company proffiile?

Thinking of taking your UK business overseas?

Find out how being a Chamber member can help your business...

Crewe Over 50’s in Crewe and Nantwich enjoyed a cracking Christmas party thanks to generous support and donations from a number of local organisations.

The first of two celebrations took place at the Oakley Centre, Crewe where two hundred guests, including Deputy Mayor of Cheshire Hilda Gaddum, tucked into a three course Christmas lunch prepared by Crewe-based community project Wishing Well, whilst being treated to musical entertainment from the Funky Choir and students from Kings Grove School.

Another party for a further 200 followed at the Civic Hall, Nantwich with students from Brine Leas School. The parties were made possible thanks to affordable housing provider, Wulvern and with donations from Bentley Motors and Crewe Rotary Club.

For more information on Wulvern call 01270 506200

Nantwich 2nd Floor Nantwich Court Hospital Street Nantwich CW5 5RH

Lyme Building Westmere Drive Crewe Business Park Crewe CW1 6ZD 01270 504 700

01270 504 700 (ext.. 18)

01270 504 701

01270 504 701 Drop-in sessions on Thursdays: 8:30 am - 1:00 pm

Dropop in to see us today find out more at :

www w.sccci.co.uk

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

MEMBERS NEWS 19

Bentley Bentayga: The new pinnacle SUV Bentley’s all-new and ground-breaking luxury Sports Utility Vehicle is set to be revealed to the world later this year and a name has been chosen: Bentley Bentayga.

draws attention from all directions and a challenging climb rewards with spectacular panoramic views of a rich and diverse landscape.

This sector-defining SUV will be able to introduce Bentley’s renowned modern British luxury to limitless destinations with an impressive combination of on and off road performance.

Wolfgang Dürheimer, Chairman and CEO of Bentley Motors, said: “Bentayga is a name that reflects what we know our SUV will do better than any other car in the world – combine the best automotive luxury with outstanding performance to take the Bentley experience to new environments.”

The natural world, along with the company’s founder, inspired its name. Crowning the Northern Hemisphere, to the north of Bentley’s birthplace in England, is the dramatic beauty of the Taiga, the world’s largest transcontinental snowforest. To the south, the rugged peak of the Roque Bentayga in the subtropical Canary Islands

The new Bentley Bentayga will be revealed later in 2015, and on sale in 2016. For regular updates visit www.bentleybentayga.com.

Using pedal-power to help children Do you want to get fit? Do you want to help local disadvantaged youngsters?

Yes! Then put June 21st in your diary, get your bike out and join us, in Crewe, at the Foundation Rides 2015.

With four rides to chose 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!

For more information visit www.foundationrides.co.uk

Reckless Sleepers present Negative Space

Firm builds on solid foundations . . .

MD Gareth Williams (pictured) said: “It’s incredible how far we’ve come over the past ten years. Thanks to hard work and commitment, and through hiring the right people locally, I’ve been able to really expand the business.

Chamber member Construction Linx is celebrating its 10th anniversary. Since 2005 the property maintenance company has grown from sole trader start-up to successful SME. Construction Linx has worked with companies and individuals across Cheshire and the North West and Midlands, since 2005.

Today the firm provides a wide range of building services to clients in the industrial, commercial, education and residential sectors, catering for both routine and emergency response maintenance and offering different cover types to suit the individual business, letting agent or homeowner.

“Now our projects include building, electrical, glazing, plumbing, landscape, roofing, industrial, environmental, cleaning and security services – and can be provided on a planned or unplanned basis, tailored to each client.”

In addition to working with local companies within the private and public sectors, Construction Linx works closely with local charitable organisations such as Crewebased Survive which offers support to abused young adults.

It puts its success during the tough economic times of the last decade largely down to its staff. “We’re a company that cares for employees and customers,” added Gareth.

For more information visit www.constructionlinx.co.uk

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

Wednesday 11 February, 6.45pm Acclaimed UK/Belgium based Reckless Sleepers, renowned for beautifully bold, intelligent and hilarious work, are to appear at the Axis Arts Centre at the Manchester Metropolitan University Cheshire Campus in Crewe.

The players appear in a white box – symbolising a ‘box full of ideas, ideas that cannot be contained.’ A sequel to the extraordinary Schrodinger, described as ‘gripping’ by The Guardian, the work offers a chance for Chamber members to enjoy a mesmerising piece of theatre – and a free drink in the £8 ticket price.

Call Axis Arts Centre Box Office directly on 0161 247 5302 to book. Please state SCCCI membership status to receive the free drink offer.

20 ADVERTORIAL

Here's to 2015...a year of growth After celebrating our sixth year of consecutive growth we are planning for a bumper 2015! Consultations and planning meetings with our existing clients indicate almost all companies expect to increase their head count which makes it a great year to be employed or seeking in employment in Cheshire.

To ensure we continue to deliver the best recruitment services to our clients and offer additional services we are welcoming three new very experienced personnel to our team: Welcome Russell Bateman

Welcome Neil King

With 15 years experience in warehouse management and New Warehouse set up Russell has joined the KPI team as 'Onsite Implementation Manager' working closely with our Blue chip clients. Russell will manage a team of on-site coordinators and along side branch recruiters to deliver the highest quality service with particular emphasis on worker performance, continuous improvement strategies and providing clients with detailed data analysis to support identified efficiencies.

Joining our Industrial team, having previously managed within warehousing and logistic sectors as well as having a wealth of experience within the recruitment industry, Neil will focus on building long term recruitment strategies to integrate systems and ensure a true partnership approach is delivered. Neil will work along side our clients HR, warehouse management, trainers and administrators to ensure a streamlined service delivery and agreed and monitor KPI's to ensure high performance.

Welcome Jenny Colclough Joining our Industrial team, with over 15 years experience in volume and tailored recruitment solutions, Jenny will be sourcing and selecting the best suited workers for our clients. Jenny will head up our client specific recruitment campaigns ensuring that vacancies are advertised far and wide using the latest marketing techniques and medias, conducting face to face interviews, industry specific aptitude testing and tailored client inductions. Jenny is looking to discuss recruitment campaigns for 2015 with new and existing clients.

We would love to welcome the opportunity to work with new clients in 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 with a sector specialist on 01270 589943

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

MEMBERS NEWS

21

Contest proves a winner for charity Hundreds of animal-lovers from across Cheshire and North Wales entered their dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters and even hens in the contest run in conjunction with the Chronicle newspaper series.

Pictures were featured every week in its South Cheshire, Chester, Runcorn and Flintshire titles.

Pet of the Year 2014 was one of the most successful to date. HJ Lea Oakes spokeswoman Margaret Lovatt said: “The contest is a real talking point every year.

Amanda Gott with Max and HJ Lea Oakes shop supervisor Helen Brewer presenting Karen Pickering of the PDSA with a £100 hamper at the Wheelock Pet Food Superstore

HJ Lea Oakes ‘Pet of the Year’ owners demonstrated their love of animals by donating their prizes to charity.

Gareth Lovell, who won the contest with his miniature Schnauzer Lilli, handed his £100 prize hamper from HJ Lea Oakes Pet Food Superstore in Wheelock to the PDSA. Amanda Gott, whose rescue dog Max was runner-up, presented her £50 voucher to Stoke City Dogs Home.

“Customers loved seeing the pictures in the paper every week. Now the winners have made a kind gesture donating their prizes. Well done to them and everyone who posted a picture of their pet helping to raise a smile.”

As well as running pet stores, HJ Lea Oakes also produces animal feed for the agricultural industry and is one of the oldest firms of its kind in the country with a lineage dating back to 1675 when the Lea family began milling feeds to supply the Cheshire farming community.

For more information visit www.hjlea.com

New jobs support growth Insure Taxi, JSW Insurance, Whitchurch Insurance, HorseboxInsurance.co.uk, Clement Gallagher and Safe and Sound Insurance.

The recruitment drive will take the number of staff working at its offices in Crewe, Southport, Lymedale, Whitchurch, Melton Mowbray, Heckmondwike and Liverpool to nearly 200. Total headcount is expected to reach 350 by October 2016.

For more on The County Group and to view current job roles visit www.thecountygroup.net/vacancies.

Are you receiving the Chamber e-newsletters?

Newcomers at The County Group

Sent fortnightly on successive weeks: The County Group, one of the UK’s leading brokers, has created over 30 new positions to support the company’s continued growth.

News & Blogs Latest News, Blogs, Offers, Polls etc.

The Crewe head-quartered company, which provides a range of personal and business insurance products as well as financial solutions such as mortgages and income protection, has filled around 20 new positions since August 2014.

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

It is now on the lookout for another 10 new starters, with vacancies in areas such as telemarketing, new business, customer service, administration and accounts.

Dave Clapp, CEO at The County Group, said: “Our ambitious growth plans mean that we’re always on the lookout for talented and ambitious people but this is new territory for us in terms of the number of jobs that have been created.”

He added: “Since The County Group was established in 2003, it has experienced rapid growth and has also expanded across the country through a number of successful acquisitions. None of these vacancies are to directly replace somebody who has left the business – they are all brand new positions that will improve productivity, bring fresh skills and ideas to the table.”

The County Group currently umbrellas over 30 niche insurance brands including County Insurance, County Financial Services,

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

22 MEMBERS NEWS

Students tune into media career Students at South Cheshire College are making great waves at RedShift Radio by hosting their own shows at the station.

MMU’s Cheshire campus is taken over by children Pupils from Springfield School in Crewe had the opportunity to grill the Acting Dean Prof Neil Fowler, MP Edward Timpson and local councillor Dorothy Flude as part of the national Children's Takeover Day.

Enterprising students from different college courses are running a series of programmes on their own at the Crewebased community station during weekdays and at weekends.

RedShift Radio is a not-for-profit community radio station which broadcasts online with a focus on local towns and villages such as Crewe, Nantwich, Sandbach, Weston, Willaston, Wrenbury and Acton.

Media students learn all the tricks of the media and broadcasting trade at the College’s Crewe campus and use the fantastic media and radio studios as part of their courses.

Liz Southall, co-founder of RedShift Radio, said: “Since 2010, we have trained over 300 young people to produce and present radio. We have seen one young presenter move on to commercial radio and one become a Premiership football club press officer.”

For more information about Media programmes at South Cheshire College call 01270 654654. To find out more about RedShift Radio, visit www.redshiftradio.co.uk

Questions covered topics including the special Olympics, regeneration ideas for town centres and the development of the local sports centre. After the question and answer session, one pupil had the chance to interview Edward Timpson for the RedShift community radio.

Prof Fowler said: “The well informed and insightful questions posed by the young people at the Takeover Day question and answer session demonstrated the importance of these events.

Those who were able to participate took maximum advantage of the opportunity and I'm sure gained much from it.”

Takeover days were introduced by the Children’s Commissioner for England, Maggie Atkinson, in order to give children and young people the chance to shadow jobs, get involved in decision-making and offer their opinions on key issues.

For more information on the Manchester Metropolitan University visit www.mmu.ac.uk/cheshire

A special mission for Anne Life coach Anne Yates was called on to offer holistic therapies in Sarajevo, Bosnia as part of the international Healing Hands Network.

Anne added: “When I arrived at the Clinic with another therapist, there were already two people standing outside in the rain waiting to be treated including one special lady, Alma, who came to see me for Reiki.

Chamber member Anne, who leads the Key to Confidence programme, said: “I joined the Healing Hands Network in August 2013 with a promise to myself that I would get involved in their overseas project in Sarajevo. A year later I found myself out there totally unexpectedly.

“She had lost part of her arm and still had shrapnel in her body after a bomb attack. She was on 10 painkillers a day. Five days later, she came back for a second treatment and just hugged me tightly saying that she had only taken one pain killer all the week. She was so grateful and brought me gifts. For me, it was the most humbling experience of my life.”

“Another therapist had dropped out due to family difficulties and the charity was desperately looking for someone to take her place.

I volunteered almost immediately.”

The HHN’s overseas project provides holistic therapies to people who have lost limbs, whose family members were killed or are still missing, or who were raped and tortured during the siege of Sarajevo between 1992 and 1995.

2015 sees Anne, of Nantwich, carrying out more work with HHN as part of a Drop-in Clinic at Everton Football Club. She will be offering Reiki and other holistic treatments to returning service and exservice personnel suffering with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Visit www.keytoconfidence.com

All wrapped up for Christmas Crewe-based Alextra Accountants were proud supporters of Operation Christmas Child.

Emma Jones and Farrah Oliver of Alextra

The campaign has been running since 1990, bringing happiness to underprivileged children around the world with gift filled shoeboxes, wrapped and packed by schools, churches, colleges and businesses alike across the UK. The festive shoeboxes are sent overseas and

have reached more than 130 countries, where local churches distribute them to children of all ages at Christmas.

Shawn Gallimore, Director of Alextra, said: “Operation Christmas child is a great cause to be involved in. It is a simple yet effective idea that takes Christmas and charity to children all over the world less fortunate than ourselves. We produced five shoeboxes on behalf of Alextra and it was pleasing to know they would be enjoyed by five children over Christmas.”

For more on the company visit www.alextragroup.co.uk

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

MEMBERS NEWS

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Business in top gear for cycling marathon JE Williams Cycles in Crewe is calling on businesses to support a major fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Society.

The landmark shop on Edleston Road is helping to organise another 100-mile cycle ride through Cheshire countryside which last year raised £20,000 for the charity.

Instead of just one 100 mile course there will be three courses starting from Nantwich at 25, 50 and 100 miles long.

Andy Williams from JE Williams Cycles said: “Last year 200 cyclists took part at beginning of Dementia Awareness Week in May. Already we have over 70 people signed up which is a great response so early on.

The event on Sunday, June 7, is open to all ages.

Under 17’s can take part in the 25 mile route.

Entrance is £20 and sponsorship forms are available.

“If local businesses get behind us, offering raffle prizes and employees sign up as riders, we hope to smash last year’s fundraising total. It would be great if we could target £50,000.”

Following the event, there will be live music at the White Horse in Nantwich from 8pm, which will be £5 or £7.50 on the night.

Andy is planning the event with Darren Greatbanks, a British Transport Police Officer who lost his dad to Alzheimer’s.

For more information log on to www.alzheimers100.co.uk or go to Facebook – Alzheimer’s 100

Season of goodwill generates huge sum for charity Santa was busy leading up to Christmas with the Rotary Club of Nantwich and the Nantwich Bookshop. Together they raised nearly £5,000 for good causes.

Nantwich Rotary Club President, Tony Coxhill, said: “As ever we would like to thank the people of Nantwich for their extraordinary Rotary Club of Nantwich President, generosity and kindness – several Tony Coxhill with Santa smiles and cheery welcomes kept us going over 300 man hours of collecting, while visiting more than

3,000 homes spread over 15 miles of Nantwich streets, roads and lanes.

“In addition, £800 was raised at the Nantwich Bookshop Christmas Grotto. We would like to thank Steve Lawson for his continuing support of Rotary and the local community.”

Willaston Scouts, Climb, Nantwich Museum, Home-Start, Nantwich Probus Club and Brine Leas School offered extra manpower to the Rotary Club while Sainsbury’s was the venue for a store collection.

The following local charities will benefit - Nantwich Rotary Community Service Projects, The Wingate Centre, Climb, Guy Harvey Youth Club and Home-Start.

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

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REASEHEATH Success for Reaseheath at WorldSkills UK from colleges and training providers nationwide. The taxing competition was held over three days in front of thousands of visitors at The Skills Show in Birmingham, the country’s biggest showcase of vocational skills and careers. Tasks included designing a floral hat, belt and chair, making up a planted container and taking part in a team project.

She recently completed her Level 3 Diploma in Floristry and was supported and trained for the competition by Programme Leader for Floristry Sue Poole.

A former pupil of Brine Leas School in Nantwich, Anna is currently teaching leisure flower arranging classes at the school. She plans to set up her own home-based floristry business ‘Anna Flora’.

Earlier this year she was a member of the student team which won Reaseheath the title of RHS Tatton Park Floristry College of the Year.

The team will compete for the national title at Chelsea Flower show in 2015.

Florist Anna Eite with her winning WorldSkills UK designs (inset) Richard Carden, a finalist in the contest

Reaseheath College florist Anna Eite is officially the most talented floristry student in the UK after winning gold at the WorldSkills UK national finals.

Another Reaseheath student, Richard Carden, was one of six finalists in the WorldSkills UK garden landscape finals at The Skills Show.

Although Richard, who is studying for his Level 3 Extended Diploma in Horticulture, just missed out on a medal, he achieved high scores and has been invited to continue with competition training. He lives in Tattenhall.for standards and quality.

For more information on the college call 01270 625131

Anna, 20, who lives in Acton, Nantwich, took the top title in the advanced section against strong competition from the best students

SOUTH CHESHIRE COLLEGE Business students in Dragon’s Den project Employers were invited to invest in innovative new student business ventures during a series of Dragons’ Den style presentations.

Enterprising Business students at South Cheshire College pitched their business proposals to representatives from the local business community after working on them for one of their course units.

Students produced a business plan alongside their business proposals and 18 out of a total of 75 students had their ideas endorsed at presentations in the College boardroom.

Company representatives which voted on the best business ideas included Jamie Stewart from Momentum Factor UK and Phil Taylor from The Alextra Group.

Business students back row (l-r) Tommy Locklin, 16, Jake Toal, 16, and Mulenga Kangwa, 17, with Phil Taylor from Alextra Accountants (far right) and front (l-r) students Jess Brown, 18, and Michael Madeley, 16, with Jamie Stewart from Momentum Factor, centre.

Business courses equip students with the skills and business acumen they need for successful careers.

Businesses benefit from free college training packages Businesses can start the new year with a bang by taking advantage of FREE training packages at South Cheshire College. Several short programmes, targeting employers and employees, are available from January 2015 subject to eligibility.

The European Social Fund (ESF) courses include Hospitality and Catering, Team Leader and Mentoring and Education and Training.

People who are aged 19 and over who work for small businesses which employ no more than 250 people could be eligible for any of the programmes which run for between 13 and 16 weeks.

Neil Smith, Contracts and Development Manager at South Cheshire College, said: “All these training programmes are ideal for small businesses.They can help employees to gain additional qualifications which can help them go from strength-to-strength in the workplace and boost the productivity and overall performance of a business from an employer’s point of view.”

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

For more information about the courses, contact Neil Smith on 01270 654654 ext 817 or email: neil.smith@scc.ac.uk

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BENTLEY £40m site expansion brings new jobs to Bentley and development centre - creating over 300 jobs in the process.

The move was welcomed by George Osborne, Chancellor of the Exchequer, who visited Bentley hot on the heels of his autumn statement.

Bentley rounded off another phenomenal year of growth by announcing the latest phase in the biggest site development in the company’s history.

A further £40 million investment will expand its Crewe headquarters with a new research

A new centre, covering 45,000m², will include a dedicated styling studio, research and development offices and a technical workshop. The facilities will house 1,300 Bentley engineers and is the latest step in preparing Bentley’s infrastructure to bring the world’s first ultra-luxury SUV to roads in 2016.

In addition, 300 roles have been created, working within engineering, manufacturing, quality, sales and marketing and project management.

Wolfgang Dürheimer, Chairman and CEO of Bentley Motors, commented: “With Bentley's new research and development centre, we will develop a new generation of Bentleys, which will continue our commitment of luxury, performance, quality and engineering excellence.”

2014 was a record-breaking year for the luxury brand. A total of 11,020 cars were delivered, representing a 9% growth on the previous year.

George Osborne said: “Bentley is an iconic British Brand that exports around the world.

Its decision to create another 300 jobs in R&D on a new site providing close to 1,000 new jobs is fantastic news for Crewe and for Britain.”

For more information on current vacancies visit www.bentleycareers.com

A new global customer environment opens in Crewe Bentley has unveiled the blueprint for its new global corporate identity, with the official opening of CW1 House – a purpose-built flagship showroom at its Crewe headquarters.

in the world of Bentley and fuelling their creativity.”

The striking new design will be rolled out across Bentley’s global dealer network. In addition, the brand will open a number of flagship showrooms in major cities around the world including Dubai, Beijing, Los Angeles and London.

Kevin Rose Member of the Board for Sales, Marketing and Aftersales, added: “One of our great strengths is the luxurious degree of choice we offer to our customers, so that every Bentley is tailored and individual. Our

new showrooms, in particular the Mulliner commissioning suite, brings these choices to life, enabling customers to see and feel the breadth of what we can do – immersing them

The Mulliner commissioning suite offers customers an exclusive, tactile and sensory experience in which to personalise their car. In addition to presenting a range of more than 100 paint colours, this central area of the facility exhibits some of the unique features commissioned by Bentley owners in the past, including unique accent trim materials such as ray skin, and a bespoke crystal decanter and matching glasses fitted behind the rear cabin CW1 House gets its distinctive name from Bentley’s Crewe postcode.

WULVERN Wulvern scoops Housing Association of the Year Award Crewe-based affordable housing provider, Wulvern is delighted to have clinched a bronze award in the Housing Association of the Year category of the prestigious 2014 WhatHouse? Awards.

The 33rd WhatHouse? Awards was the biggest-ever in its history with actor and comedian Rob Brydon presenting accolades to the housing industry leaders from all over the country at a glittering ceremony in London.

Rupert Bates, editorial director of WhatHouse? hailed the quality of this year’s entries and winners saying: “This is what the best housebuilders, large and small, can deliver. This is what the industry can achieve with passion and professionalism.”

The judges report found that Wulvern is smartly run and has staff who really believe in their customers and in great service.

On hearing of their success, Wulvern’s Chief Executive Sue Lock said: “Wulvern’s vision is to provide brilliant social housing and we are delighted to have been recognised amongst industry leaders.”

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

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

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MORNFLAKE All aboard for a Mornflake breakfast!

Cereals made by Cheshire-based Mornflake are going down well with travellers across the country after being stocked by Virgin Trains.

of the fastest growing in the country but to be associated with a global icon like Virgin is fantastic.”

Meanwhile a recent TV advertising campaign on ITV’s Good Morning Britain has encouraged a new army of Mornflake fans.

There’s more than 10,000 ‘friends’ on Facebook who try out its recipes and fashionable Bircher Museli was by popular demand.

The company’s best-selling Top Porridge prepared with hot water and flavoured with Nutella or Lyle’s Golden Syrup is available in Virgin’s onboard shops.

And Bircher Muesli – a blend of Mornflake oats, chilled yoghurt, apple juice and fruit, is being enjoyed by passengers travelling First Class and visiting Virgin lounges at stations such as Crewe, Manchester Piccadilly and London Euston.

Catherine Sadler with one of the products now onboard Virgin Trains

Marketing spokeswoman Catherine Sadler said: “Mornflake is a national brand and one

For more information on Mornflake products and recipes visit www.mornflake.com

Tony’s farewell after half a century A Mornflake member of staff has retired after nearly 50 years of preparing oats for the nation’s breakfast bowls.

Tony Jones was just 15 when he joined the family firm straight from Brierley Street School in Crewe.

Mornflake managing director John Lea and former employee Christine Porter bid farewell to longserving miller Tony Jones. Picture: By Pure PR

Over 50 years he went from a teenager stacking boxes on pallets in the packing room to a miller and production supervisor in the firm’s Gresty Road mill.

The Crewe Alex fan, aged 65, was given a warm send off by staff and management who presented cards and gifts. He said: “Mornflake is a family firm where oldfashioned values count. I’ve worked for three generations of the same family and they’ve all been salt of the earth.”

A guest at his farewell party was Christine Porter. A former Mornflake office employee, she also retired after 50 years.

SG WORLD A year around the SG World SG World furthered its ongoing commitment to training and development by expanding the apprenticeship program which started in 2013.

Investing in the wider community, SG World hosted a visit from Year 6 pupils at Hungerford Road Primary School in Crewe. The children took a field trip to the Crewe head office to learn about careers and businesses, as part of their Opportunities Days.

The company also welcomed students from further afield by participating in the MMU Cheshire International Students Placement programme.

Children from Hungerford Primary School in Crewe visiting SG World

2014 was another busy year for SG World.

It clocked up an impressive 45 years in business - this longevity can be largely attributed to the strong family tradition instigated by founder, Arnold Haase and fostered by son and present CEO – Mark.

Renaming the main building ‘Arnold Haase House’ in the summer celebrated a name that’s already part of SG World’s DNA. It continued to invest in new print technology, bringing on board a four colour press and digital printer. This move makes SG World more flexible in meeting faster customer turnarounds. It also meets customer demand for new product formats such as stickers, magnets and variable data print projects.

France is just one of SG World’s international ventures. In 2014 SG World set up a central hub in Brussels to service its European customers from Spain, Benelux, Germany, France and Portugal. It also opened its USA HQ and warehouse facility in Florida, all with the aim of creating a local presence and tailored solutions for regional customers.

The year ended on a high note with another successful appearance at the Academies Show in November. The show also proved an excellent platform to introduce schools to the latest VisIT ED package – a slimline, tablet based visitor touchscreen and branded stand, all giving schools the opportunity to meet safeguarding as well as Ofsted standards.

For more information visit www.sgworld.com

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

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MANCHESTER METROPOLITAN UNIVERSITY Inspiring next generation of record producers Music legend shares wealth of experience deliver a seminar on Bowie's 'Hunky Dory' album, which he produced.

overuse modern technology’. It has its place but these days it seems to be overused.”

“We prepared for Ken's visit by gathering staff and students together for a lecture where we discussed Hunky Dory and listened to an original vinyl recording of the album - crackles and all! - something that was quite different for our younger students.”

New studio opened

Next generation

Staff and students alike were inspired by a visit by legendary producer Ken Scott to MMU’s Department of Contemporary Arts in Crewe.

Scott has produced record for the likes of David Bowie and Elton John, and was visiting as part of a two day project for Creative Music Production students focusing on Bowie’s Hunky Dory album.

Dr Jason Woolley, Programme Leader for the course, said: “After Ken's previous successful visit to MMU, staff and students were keen to approach him for a return visit. We had something specific in mind and were very excited when Ken agreed to

Ken said he was thrilled to be asked back to speak at MMU for a second time.

He said: “Every opportunity to speak to the next generation I will take because I had such an amazing training process at Abbey Road that anything I can give back to the next generation I do.

Ken also opened the new Post Production Studio in the department.

Dr Woolley said: “Considering Ken's amazing career and his dedication to advising and working with students who themselves aspire to a career in the music industry, we felt he was absolutely the right person to open our new studio.

“Ken is such a clear talent and so humble about his achievements, he is an inspiration to staff and students at MMU. We are delighted that he agreed to open our new studio.”

“I feel it’s important to pass on some of the stuff from back in the golden days of recording that I feel is being lost by the over use of technology. I want to tell them to make decisions, keep it simple, do not ever use auto tune!

Student David Williams, who is studying on the Creative Music Production course said: "it was awesome to meet Ken, it was really inspiring to hear how many people he's worked with, all his years experience. The main thing I've learned is there's no rules in music!"

“The students asked a lot of very good questions. The main lesson I gave was ‘Don't

For more information on MMU courses call 0161 247 2000

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

28 MEMBERS NEWS

Law firm launches mediation outposts such as Newcastle Civic Offices, Congleton Library and Winsford Lifestyle Centre or where people may already be going for support with issues arising from their separation such as the Relate offices on Tarporley Road, Clotton and the Hope Street Centre in Sandbach.

“Emotions often run high so initial meetings are held separately to ease anxiety before we get round the table. Always the aim is to make separation and divorce less painful and cheaper than sitting opposite each other in a courtroom.”

The firm has grown to include six mediators as part of its team of family lawyers and mediators – now one of the biggest in Cheshire.

Jane Wilson and Kay Masters offer mediation at the Hope Street Centre in Sandbach

Hall Smith Whittingham has extended its free mediation service after being awarded special status by the Legal Aid Agency.

It has taken mediation to a number of outposts across the area after being recognised with the Agency’s Quality Mark for excellence in service currently offered at Crewe, Nantwich and Stoke.

Now free mediation is available from the firm’s skilled team in Sandbach, Tarporley, Congleton, Winsford, Newcastle, Market Drayton and Whitchurch.

Legal Aid is available for mediation for anyone on certain benefits or a low income. If one person is eligible for Legal Aid both get the Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) and the first mediation meeting completely free.

She added: “It is a requirement that anyone who wants to issue a court application about child arrangements or financial issues arising from separation seeks mediation first. The good news is over 70% of couples who use mediation reach agreement.”

Also on the team is Kay Masters, a Mediator and Collaborative Lawyer. A Deputy District Judge, she handles complex cases involving large assets such as businesses, pensions and property.

For more information call Hall Smith Whittingham on 01270 259700.

Family lawyer Jane Wilson, an Accredited Family Mediator, said: “We are providing mediation meetings at locations that will be familiar

A ‘cool’ year for ice cream Whitby Morrison celebrated another excellent year with a special event for the ice cream industry. Its Ice Cream Van Celebration held over two days at the Weaver Stadium in Nantwich attracted over 500 ice cream men from all over Britain and Ireland.

Established in 1962 and based on the Crewe Gates Industrial Estate, Whitby Morrison is recognised as the world’s leading manufacturer of ice cream vans.

Ed Whitby said: “The ice cream season can be very temperamental with the British climate but thankfully we’ve enjoyed two very good summers.”

The event gave Whitby Morrison the opportunity to display its most varied range of vans to date, with specifications and colours to suit all ice cream occasions. Also on show were 10 vintage vans from the 1940s, 50s and 60s.

A highlight was the unveiling of two very special vans - a concept version of the new Ford Transit and a 1932 vintage Rolls Royce which would have originally been built in Crewe.

Managing director Stuart Whitby said: “I served my apprenticeship at Royce’s and promised myself that one day my family would have a vintage Rolls Royce. That wish has now become a reality, although I’d have never dreamt it would be an ice cream van!.”

For more information on Whitby Morrison visit www.whitbymorrison.com

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

BUSINESS NEWS 29

Company takes off with Concorde Quality Management standard and over 1000 new customers have joined its customer base in the last two years. Many are international household names – the most famous one being Concorde.

Mark Tonks meets David Garside, at the unveiling of Concorde G-AXDN (inset) the specially designed ‘droop nose’

Heritage Concorde approached Hydraulics Online looking for help to turn their dreams into reality and make Concorde G-AXDN the first UK Concorde to be able to ‘droop’ her famous nose since the fleet had been retired in 2003.

Alsager-based Hydraulics Online Ltd is celebrating its 10th anniversary with some high-flying achievements.

Hydraulics Online designed a bespoke hydraulic system that could be connected to the existing aircraft nose systems, allowing the visor and nose to be lowered and raised at any time.

Last spring the British Standards Institute accredited the company with the internationally recognised ISO 9001:2008

David Garside, Chairman of Duxford Aviation Society, unveiled G-AXDN’s droop nose at the Imperial War Museum, Duxford

at an event timed to coincide with and “Salute” the 11th anniversary of the last commercial flight by Concorde. At the unveiling he “gratefully acknowledged the generous sponsorship and support from Hydraulics Online Ltd and for designing and supplying the hydraulic power pack.”

Mark Tonks, MD of Hydraulics Online Ltd, said: “Our customer base is global. We’re always involved with a vast range of projects and systems design work and we deal with some big names, but Concorde is in a different league. Seeing G-AXDN’s nose and visor moving again, knowing that we were part of the team that made it happen, was very special indeed.”

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

Just the tonic for health cash plan provider Health Shield has won two important UK financial awards in the same year. The Crewe firm beat several well-known brands in the health insurance sector to win Best Cash Plan at the Cover Excellence Awards and Best Cash Plan Provider at the Health Insurance Awards.

The awards follow news that Health Shield has passed the 200,000 members mark for the first time in its history, in addition to being named in The Sunday Times’ prestigious ‘100 Best Not-For-Profit Organisations to work for’ for the second year running.

Health Shield was also the only UK cash plan provider in the Top 4 of this year’s influential Laing & Buisson report to have increased its market share every year for the previous five years, demonstrating the firm’s continuing growth.

Jonathan Burton, Chief Executive, said: “These tremendous achievements have been accomplished by our commitment to continuing to improve our already high member satisfaction levels. Our Celebration time for Health Shield staff 2014 survey found 92% of our members regarded their experience of dealing with Health Shield as ‘good’ whilst 97% said that we turnaround their claims quickly.”

For more information visit www.healthshield.co.uk

Tap into social media for international trade Special events are being staged to show companies how to make the most of Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and other social media to gain more international profile, website traffic and leads.

Hosted by the UKTI, the workshops will help businesses design an ideal international social network to get more referrals and recommendations and create better international viral content.

The next will be in Manchester on February 11, followed by Blackpool on February 25 and Runcorn on March 11.

For booking details visit http://bit.ly/socialmediaseminars LinkedIn for International Trade Seminar This Manchester seminar on March 25 will use the power of networking and LinkedIn to improve relationships and grow your business.

•

Discover more about online networking options and how to make them work hard for you

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Ensure that you have a great 'elevator pitch' or summary of your business offer

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Understand how to improve your LinkedIn profile and make it work harder for you internationally

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Learn how to use LinkedIn to build your networks and develop your business overseas

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Put your joined up approach to networking into action

For booking details visit http://bit.ly/linkedinseminars Website Optimisation for International Trade Seminar Find out how to build and optimise a world-class website that will generate a higher volume of web traffic and gain new business from international customers.

This workshop, led by an expert in international websites and effective communication, will provide hints and tips on free tools and leading-edge web techniques to structure, design and optimise your website for international visitors.

Dates are:Liverpool - February 2 and 16 Manchester - February 23 Preston - March 2 Blackpool - March 16 Manchester - March 23.

For booking details visit: http://bit.ly/WebsiteOptimisation

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

30 BUSINESS NEWS

Event proves just the job More than 40 leading companies including Bentley, Mornflake, Expert Logistics and Total People were on hand looking to tap into the area’s local talent.

Mr Timpson branded this year’s jobs expo - backed by the Chronicle and South Cheshire Chamber as an economic boost adding that there was a good mixture of public and private sector job opportunities locally.

Mr Timpson said: “Unemployment in Crewe and Nantwich is down an astounding 40% on the last year. The number of jobs available to the remaining jobseekers has doubled and this means that for every jobseeker locally there are 23 jobs available within 20 miles of Crewe.

Last year, it was only five jobs.

Edward Timpson MP and Chamber Chief Executive Paul Colman welcome job-hunters to the Alexandra Stadium

The third annual jobs fair for Crewe and Nantwich was hailed a success by organiser Edward Timpson MP. The event, held at the Alexandra Stadium in Crewe, was packed with job-hunters and young apprentices despite a 40% downturn in unemployment figures in South Cheshire.

PA4You was recruiting at the Jobs Fair

Alpha Omega took enquiries about job opportunities

“At this year’s job’s fair we saw more competition amongst the exhibitors for recruitment, and more meaningful conversations taking place between companies and potential employees.”

Chief Executive at South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce, Paul Colman, said: “From an economic standpoint and from the companies in attendance, the event was a good indication of the wealth of opportunity in South Cheshire. It remains a major networking opportunity for unemployed local people to help them find out what career path suits them.

Richard Jones of Mornflake was on hand to chat over job opportunities

Bentley Motors was a popular draw at the event

Marketing agency moves to new home Bare Bones Marketing, based in Middlewich, is thrilled to have relocated to a new office on the town’s Brooks Lane.

The relocation makes it more accessible to local businesses needing marketing help and advice.

The office was officially opened by Middlewich Town Mayor Paul Edwards during an open evening for clients.

Founder of Bare Bones Marketing, Emma Dalzell commented: "We’re thrilled to be the first full service marketing agency with an office in Middlewich and are so proud to be part of the business community here. The new office gives us meeting rooms and creative space as well as a great location right in the heart of one of Middlewich’s busiest business areas.”

For more information visit www.bbmarketing.co.uk

Sue is in the driving seat for success Chamber member Sue Roberts picked up a company Porsche as part of her reward for her lastest achievement in her five-year association with Utility Warehouse.

Sue earned the right to drive the Porsche after steadily building her business in South Cheshire.

She’s already achieved a BMW mini and earlier this year was awarded a weekend in Paris and luxury cruise from Venice to Istanbul.

Recently she took part in a coast to coast rally from Morecambe Bay to Scarborough in aid of Breast Cancer Campaign and Prostate Cancer - and together with 17 Minis has so far raised over £3000.

Sue is currently looking to expand and is seeking more Business Partners. She said: “Anyone can become a distributor like me as full training, coaching and support are given.”

To learn more about the business opportunity visit www.earn-more.org For more information about fundraising for your community group or charity call Sue on 07715170519

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

BUSINESS NEWS 31

Kate completes phenomenal fundraiser Jones Sheridan, financial advisers based in Crewe, are delighted to announce that Kate Jayden, Senior Paraplanner at the firm, has completed her extraordinary charity fundraising challenge.

In 21 days, Kate cycled the length of the country and ran 11 marathons. The feat was even more exceptional given that she completed the 11 marathons in the final 11 days of the challenge, finishing with her fastest ever marathon time of 4 hours and 9 minutes on day 11.

Kate Jayden made a marathon effort for charity

To date, Kate and the team have raised an amazing £5,500 with all funds going to BEAT - the leading UK charity for people with eating disorders and their families.

David Williams, Managing Director at Jones Sheridan, said: “We are beyond proud of Kate’s efforts. We were happy to support Kate by sponsoring her kit and are delighted to have her back in one piece having raised such a tremendous amount for this worthy cause”.

BEAT is a cause close to her heart as she battled against bulimia and anorexia between the ages of 16 and 24. Her strong mental attitude enabled her to make a full recovery and Kate now strives to help those suffering with eating disorders.

For more information on Jones Sheridan call 01270 530975

Celebrating 10 years in style Sales and lettings specialists, Martin & Co, celebrated its 10th birthday at the Residence Restaurant & Bar in Nantwich.

of over 20 qualified professionals, with offices in Crewe and Nantwich.

On the night, staff awarded Shaun and Mark the unusual but impressive gift of replica gladiators’ helmets for their hard efforts over the years.

Shaun Cafferty and Mark Bowler with their team marking a birthday milestone

Shaun addressed the team saying: “It's hard to believe that its ten years since my business partner Mark Bowler and I first started our property business in a small shop in Nantwich. It's almost harder to believe that we now employ 22 people and operate from two large shops with further expansion plans soon to come.”

Senior directors, Shaun Cafferty and Mark Bowler, first opened their doors in Nantwich in 2004 and have since grown into a team

In their very first month Martin & Co let just three properties. This year in October alone they moved tenants into 80 new

homes across Crewe and Nantwich.

He paid tribute to staff saying: “We recruit carefully and invest a lot of time and money in training, and in providing a motivating environment that people can enjoy and develop in. In return, our team often go the extra mile and are passionate about what we are trying to deliver to our customers.

Our thanks go out to them especially.”

Now managing over 1000 properties across South Cheshire, Martin & Co is hoping to complete on the sale of 100 homes in its first full year as an estate agent – an area it is looking to expand.

For information on Martin and Co properties visit www.martinco.com

Partnership will change lives Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire David Briggs has officially launched a partnership between Cheshire Neighbours Credit Union and Changing Lives in Cheshire.

The collaboration in which Changing Lives in Cheshire became a host site for Cheshire Neighbours Credit Union will improve the lives of local people, in particular those who have experienced disadvantage when accessing mainstream financial services.

to members. It promotes effective money management and is open to anyone who lives, works or volunteers in Cheshire.

CNCU’s CEO John Weir said: “There is a synergy between the two companies, and we look forward to working with Changing Lives in Cheshire to provide alternative access to affordable and safe borrowing and basic banking especially to those excluded from the high street banks.”

Changing Lives in Cheshire, a not-for-profit Social Enterprise and registered charity, recycles household furniture, paint and electrical items. They are restored and sold at affordable prices, especially to families and individuals on low incomes and benefits.

It supports people through a variety of work, training and volunteering programmes for unemployed, vulnerable, disabled and excluded members of our community. Gary Cliffe, Changing Lives in Cheshire’s CEO, said: “We have thought about a closer link with Credit Unions for many years and the time is certainly right to provide an alternative to some of the often exploitative and costly alternatives available to our customers.”

John Weir of Cheshire Neighbours Credit Union, Cheshire Lord Lieutenant David Briggs and Gary Cliffe, CEO of Changing Lives in Cheshire

Cheshire Neighbours Credit Union, a not-for-profit financial organisation, offers a range of savings accounts and affordable loans

Changing Lives in Cheshire has premises on Winsford Industrial Estate. For more information visit www.clic-changinglives.org.uk To learn more about Cheshire Neighbours Credit Union visit www.cncu.org.uk

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

BUSINESS NEWS

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Firm takes gold for health and wellbeing services Chamber member ctchealthcare is celebrating special recognition from the country’s top physicians as it approaches its 21st birthday.

The healthcare provider was specially selected from practices nationwide to take part in a pilot scheme led by the Royal College of Physicians in London as they extend monitoring of services to physiotherapy.

Now ctchealthcare, based in Crewe and Nantwich, will become one of the first physiotherapy and well-being providers in the UK to receive SEQOHS accreditation.

Rick Carter, managing director of ctchealthcare and Helen Callahan, the company’s Quality Assurance Manager, are delighted with its new accreditation

The company, founded by former Manchester United and Chelsea Football Club physio Rick Carter, worked closely with SEQOHS assessors to ensure the accreditation would cover all aspects of its industry.

Mr Carter said: “Safe, Effective, Quality Occupational Health Services - known as SEQOHS - monitors and improves standards in the occupational health industry. It’s recognised as gold standard and this has now been extended to physiotherapy.

We were privileged to play an important role in the pilot scheme which involved many months of work. As a result we will be one of the first in our industry to achieve it which is quite an achievement.” ctchealthcare delivers various programmes to help companies develop a happy and healthy workforce.

Sickness absence management, injury prevention and health and wellbeing programmes are among its services to the business community.

It works with big name companies including 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 – South Cheshire sites are on Crewe Business Park and Beam Heath Way in Nantwich.

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

College calls for business mentors It offers students a six-week paid internship, networking opportunities with local businesses, exciting trips throughout the programme, access to guest speakers from the business world and a business mentor to work with them throughout the programme.

Becoming a mentor can also benefit employers by helping them to develop their own coaching and management skills and young people can inject fresh business ideas of their own.

South Cheshire College is targeting business mentors to support students through its Career Academy programme.

Business professionals and volunteers are needed to help careerminded young people through the scheme which helps to bridge the gap between education and the workplace.

The national Career Academy initiative, which is exclusive to South Cheshire College in the South Cheshire area, targets 16 to 19 year olds studying Business BTEC National Diploma programmes.

Karen Richardson, Career Academy Coordinator at South Cheshire College, said: “This programme is an excellent opportunity for young people to express themselves and gain valuable skills in the workplace under the guidance of business experts.”

If you are interested in becoming a Mentor/Volunteer for the Career Academy at South Cheshire College, please contact Career Academy Coordinator Karen Richardson on 01270 654654 or e-mail karen.richardson@scc.ac.uk

Dress down Fridays prove a gift to charity The money re-claiming specialists at Crystal reached their £3,000 fundraising goal and split the money four ways based on a company-wide vote. Crewe-based homeless charity ‘The Lath Group’ received £450 and a further £450 went to national charity ‘Contact the Elderly’ which focuses on tackling loneliness amongst older people.

With the remaining money, Crystal Legal services visited the RSPCA in Nantwich where they donated £480 worth of toys, treats and food to the animals.

Crewe based legal company, Crystal Legal Services, donated a record breaking amount to charity from their weekly dress down on Fridays payroll giving donations.

However, the charity that perhaps stole everyone’s hearts the most was the Leighton Hospital children’s ward. Crystal Legal Services bought over £1,200 worth of toys, books, DVDs, Xbox games and toiletries for the children.

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

Eight members of the Crystal Legal team, including case handler, David Appleton, who dressed as Father Christmas, delivered the presents personally where they were greeted by thrilled nurses.

Managing director, Tony Shields said: “We are really proud to be able to help so many great causes. Our staff really got behind this initiative with donation of funds, choosing the charities and even helping out with the wrapping of gifts. It’s a small contribution to support the hard work of the volunteers and staff in these organisations.”

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

BUSINESS NEWS

35

Community project offers free nursery places Plans have been unveiled to transform a landmark Crewe building into a much-needed nursery facility offering free places to children.

The centre, opposite Bombardier on West Street, will provide quality learning and play activities for children aged two to five as part of a new not-for-profit organisation being launched by city businesswoman Maria Bradbury.

Mrs Bradbury (pictured) founder of the Stepping Stones nursery group, is also creating modern office space in the building she has dubbed Metasi House. She said: “Stepping Stones has grown into a highly-successful business since it was founded in Weston 12 years ago. We now have bases in Stoke-on-Trent and over 300 children on our books. This community interest venture is my way of giving back to the community and those parents who have placed their most precious possessions, their children, in my care.”

Little Steps, as the nursery will be known, will provide up to 15 hours

of free care for Crewe tots as part of a Government-backed scheme to increase nursery provision.

Work will breathe new life into the building which has been used as a restaurant and base for a building company over the years. An application to convert the building has been submitted to Cheshire East Council.

Little Steps will operate as a community interest company with any fundraising efforts directed to projects for the homeless including the YMCA in Crewe.

For more information email info@steppingstonesgroup.co.uk

MP’s wife calls for hospice trustees

Andrea Ladeira, St Luke’s Commercial Director, Julia Timpson, Trustee and Edward Timpson MP at the launch of Care 2 Save

Becoming a charity trustee is often inspired by the desire to put something back into the community and this was my motivation when I joined the board of trustees at St Luke’s, writes Julia Timpson. But for me, it was also about being part of the innovative work and fundraising opportunities which this particular charity was promoting.

St Luke’s has just opened a state-of-art new therapy centre at Winterley Grange, which will serve the community for years to

come in the areas of dementia and cancer treatment, as well as palliative care. In order to finance this legacy, the charity has just launched a new initiative: Care 2 Save, a shopping website with a difference where, just by buying online, the customer can give to charity at no extra cost to themselves. It was this project that really inspired me to get involved.

With this forward-looking ethos comes the need for commerciallyaware trustees to oversee the charity’s work. We need trustees in the areas of HR, IT and retail, or professionals with a strong business acumen. We also need directors to be involved with the trading companies within the charity, including the hospice shops and Care 2 Save.

Contact Diane Eeley at St Luke’s Hospice for more information on Diane_Eeley@stlukes-hospice.co.uk.

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

NANTWICH BUSINESS NEWS

37

Dabbers reward ‘dynamic’ duo Winners were AthElite, a body transformation training centre based in Sandbach.

Owners Jennifer and Julie won over the dragons with their inspiring and motivational business. AthElite work by creating an individual profile for each of their clients. Judges felt there was a community aspect and ‘family feel’ to their business.

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

Scott Harding, partner at Poole Alcock, said: “We were extremely impressed with Jennifer and Julie of AthElite. Their pitch was dynamic, engaging and their passion for their business really shone through.”

Dabbers Den judges and this year’s winners at Residence in Nantwich

Nantwich businesses Howard Worth Chartered Accountants, Poole Alcock solicitors and Residence Bar and Restaurant teamed up to stage another successful Dabber’s Den competition.

Now in its third year, and supported by NatWest and Cheshire East Council, the contest offered a £5000 prize plus a year of accountancy mentoring by Howard Worth and legal mentoring by Poole Alcock.

The Dabbers Panel consisted of Mike Doherty, partner at Howard Worth, Scott Harding, partner at Poole Alcock, Natalie Moore, Natwest Bank, Councillor Peter Groves and Ben Rafferty, owner at The Residence.

Further information on Poole Alcock Solicitors and Howard Worth Accountants visit www.poolealcock.co.uk • www.howardworth.co.uk

Christmas cheer in jumpers Accountants rounded off a money-spinning year for charity with a Christmas Jumper Day. Staff at Barringtons Chartered Accountants answered a national call from Save the Children to raise money for its campaign by wearing silly season jumpers. The firm raised more than £6,000 for worthy causes in 2014 with a concert night and quiz in Nantwich as well as dress-down Fridays, Jeans for Jeans Days, Yellow Days and various collections.

Managing director Phil Wood said: “Most of the fundraising has been for our local hospices but as Christmas is for children, staff were delighted to help another cause.”

Barringtons, which has offices on Beam Heath Way in Nantwich, has made St Luke’s Cheshire Hospice and Douglas Macmillan Hospice in Trentham their chosen charities again for the New Year.

Barringtons staff in Nantwich don their Christmas jumpers for Save the Children

For more information on accountancy services call 01270 623821

Full marks for training company Lucy Meacock presented Commercial Director, Victoria Graham with the award at the prestigious ceremony held at Chester Cathedral.

2014 was a great year for Nantwich-based family business Training Bytesize.

It was crowned winners of the ‘Cheshire Business Awards – Small Business of the year’ award and received external accreditation for new products.

Accredited by APMG, Training Byte Size is now an official training provider for Managing Benefits and Better Business Cases. The external accreditation comes as the seal of approval after months of hard work developing e-learning and course materials.

Most recently, it has developed a new elearning course for Business Analysis Foundation which covers business strategy and implementation, accredited by the British Computer Society.

www.southcheshirechamber.co.uk

Business Analysis helps reduce business risks and increase return on investment, generating greater business value.

“We are really excited about the launch of our latest course and the accreditation that comes with it. The response so far has been amazing. Another great course that fits with the current portfolio perfectly,” said Victoria Graham.

Training Byte Size regularly run public and corporate classroom courses in its Hospital Street office.

For more information call 01270 626330

38 CHESHIRE CONNECT

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 The famous saying coined by highly respected business author Stephen Covey ‘Seek first to understand then to be understood’ illustrates the importance of ensuring that the most pressing needs are identified, understood and prioritised, and this will result in real and tangible results which will have resonance and reflect your organisation’s values to your board, employees, stakeholders and attract future employees. The result will be a win win!

I have recently joined Cheshire Connect with a desire to utilise my extensive business experience and transferable skills which I have gained over 30 years working within advertising and marketing agencies and I have experience of working across the full integrated marketing communications mix, providing services for a wide range of businesses from large corporate blue-chip organisations to a wide variety of SMEs – in the private, public and non-profit sectors.

Dianne Parrish – Dip IMC FCIM FIDM Chartered Marketer, PRINCE2 Project Manager, NLP Master Practitioner/Coach)

My role will be a three step approach: Firstly - to assess the local community’s social needs and identify charities and voluntary organisations already working to help address those needs.

Secondly - to invest our time at Cheshire Connect in order to understand these organisations’ specific operational challenges and then to gain insight and knowledge to recognise precisely where assistance* from your business would be beneficial to these voluntary organisations.

Thirdly - network with you and your fellow businesses in the region and to work in collaboration with the South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce. By getting to know you and understanding your business’ areas of expertise, I will be able to match your skills and talents to satisfy the needs of specific charities or voluntary organisations. *When we refer to ‘assistance’, we are principally talking in terms of volunteering skills, talents and time: such as accounting; legal advice; HR systems; marketing or re-structuring and business planning – i.e. services that will help the charity or voluntary organisation to overcome challenges, fill skill gaps and help to develop their service further.

I guess you might call it a ‘match maker service’; 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 UK Fuels

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