Business Lancashire - December 2018

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£20m ‘Made Smarter’ programme launched A NEW £20 million initiative, designed to embed advanced digital technology across the North West’s manufacturing sector to boost productivity, was officially launched today.

Backed by national government and some of the world’s biggest businesses, the Made Smarter North West programme is set to engage with 3,000 SME manufacturers based in Cheshire and Warrington, Cumbria, Lancashire, Greater Manchester and the Liverpool City Region.

Lancashire companies which get involved in the project will get the chance to access match funded support and advice regarding how industrial digital technologies (IDT), including robotics, artificial intelligence, 3D printing and the Internet of Things (IoT), could revolutionise their manufacturing processes.

A number of Lancashire firms will also qualify for more intensive business support, gaining access to match-

funded grants, bespoke consultancy, mentoring and other resources which will help them to accelerate commercial growth.

It is anticipated that by becoming a test-bed for new types of technologies and advanced processes, the region’s manufacturing sector could generate a 25% increase in productivity and add £115m to the North West economy.

Co-Chaired by Business Secretary Greg Clarke, and CEO of Siemens Juergen Maier, the Commission includes representatives from 17 leading companies and organisations directly linked to manufacturing.

As well as Siemens, who employ 2,000 people in the North West, other members of the Commission with a major presence in the region include Airbus, Jaguar Land Rover and Lancashire-based employers Rolls Royce, BAE Systems.

Juergen Maier, CEO of Siemens, said: “Made Smarter has the potential to kick start a new industrial revolution for our manufacturing sector and be a catalyst for new investment in the latest digital technologies. At its core will be helping local businesses to innovate, creating new growth and technology opportunities in the process.

“It’s a hugely exciting time for Lancashire, and I believe this is truly a once in a generational opportunity to boost productivity and create the high value, highly paid jobs of the future.”

Made Smarter will be delivered across the county by Boost, Lancashire’s business Growth Hub. Andy Walker from Boost, said: “With new facilities such as the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre at Samlesbury, the Health

Innovation Campus at Lancaster, the Energy HQ in Blackpool and UCLan’s Engineering Innovation Centre in Preston, Lancashire is developing a truly world class technology-led innovation infrastructure.

“However, the Made Smarter North West programme means that any Lancashire firms unsure about how to maximise these assets, or simply want to better understand the incredible commercial opportunities offered by the latest industrial digital technologies, will now have the chance to get advice, support and grants specifically linked to advanced manufacturing.

“I would therefore encourage Lancashire SMEs to take full advantage of this exciting government-backed initiative.”

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WELCOME

December 2018

CONTENTS MANUFACTURING 4 THOUGHT LEADERSHIP

...to the December 2018 edition of Business Lancashire. In this issue, we learn about how Lancashire visitor is economy is continuing to grow.

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EDUCATION 8 AWARDS 9 BUSINESS SUPPORT

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INTERNATIONAL 18

We also read about how Levity CropScience has begun exporting its ground-breaking products to China and BAE Systems’ latest aviation technology.

ACQUISITIONS 19 TRANSPORT 21 CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

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Additionally, we see special features the Wyre Business Awards and green energy and sustainability in the county.

WYRE BUSINESS AWARDS

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Finally, Merry Christmas from everybody at Business Lancashire.

PROPERTY 36

APPOINTMENTS 32 EVENTS LISTINGS ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY

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Andrew Leeming, tech and creative sectors in Boost business e We ess Yo ert adv em Sch eing in e Business uncil Busin business exp w To Us and Wellb Anne Williamson, MD at ProgrammeBu Manager, attended Lancaster. growth hub, led rbybuthe Lancashire esses, and rnley Co port.” These are well paid, highly ou sin Design, Ho of supskilled organised Your Catarina King, co-founder grow. jobs and the number is growing Customer Love Ltd, added: “There LEP (Local Enterprise Partnership) Secured By r Data to Growalongside t package ek 2018 is team. t of tha e, Burnleyand Lancashirepar me Business We cil, in partnership were many similarities between the of Preston-based space year on year. It is not hard to see why County Council cer ck Cartledg Your Custo Mico-working Coun re. d tive Offi ecu Ex growth hungry businesses in the room ief owner of Cotton Lancaster is well placed to host cuttingand supported by funding from the

by Burnley support agencies an s Business and mo siness Society1; Rob Binns, Council Ch ess ert r, Bu and their feedback to Government ina, Business Centre; Guy Cookson, European Regional Development Fund edge businesses.” with busin cyber resilience exp Kevin Porte rector at XcCourt by and partner at Lancaster-based creative Robert Binns, owner of Cotton nt Di (ERDF). reflects the thoughts of many of the supported latest advice areas Developme the er off agency Hotfoot Design; and Anne Court, added: “It was a great Catarina King, who co-founded businesses I work with each week. It Xcina, to of business Williamson of Lancashire-based opportunity to directly speak to the Society 1 in Preston in 2017, said: will be great to see some of the points on a range guidance consultancy Customer Love Ltd. Prime Minister’s special adviser about “I feel as a group of four Lancashire addressed come to fruition.” ed by: Publish

18 May 20 INSIDE:

www.businesslancashire.co.uk/subscription y e l n r Bu s supportses Lancashire firms’ mission If you would like to be involved with BUSINESS LANCASHIRE, s busine & CONTACTS CONTRIBUTORS please get in touch with the below: h to Number 10 to help t n e with sevs small businesses grow es n i s u B Group Editor: Andy Mann Design: Robert Leach This publication is produced by The Samuel James Group Ltd, 07951 731722 01772 364150 / 07930 962609 Week Unit 6/7 Eastway Business Village, Fulwood, Preston PR2 9WT. andy@thesamueljamesgroup.com

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Lancashire visitor economy continued to grow in 2017

WITH just a week to go before the county celebrates tourism and hospitality businesses across the county in the Lancashire Tourism Awards 2018, Marketing Lancashire has revealed the latest annual tourism figures for 2017. Latest figures show the visitor economy continued to grow, with the economic impact of the sector reaching £4.25 billion (+2.9% since 2016) and visitors increasing from 67 million to 67.63 million. There has also been a 1% increase in jobs in the tourism and hospitality sector.

Chief Executive of Marketing Lancashire, Rachel McQueen, said:

“This is good news for Lancashire and another year of positive growth for the sector. The greater rise in economic impact, compared to visitor numbers, shows that people visiting the county are now also spending more. We are encouraged by the 3% increase in staying visitors and, with an incredibly busy summer this year, we are optimistic that we will see a healthy level of growth into next year.”

Lancashire continues to be hugely popular with day visitors, thanks to great connectivity and an offer that appeals to the people living in nearby urban centres. The county also has

a diverse and packed programme of events that draw visitors from wider neighbouring counties and further afield. Day visitors generated £2.06 billion in 2017, an increase of 3.2% on the previous year, but staying visitors generated even more at £2.2 billion, an increase of 2.8%. Key areas of spend continue to be retail and food & drink, which generated over £2.18 billion, together an increase of 4% in 2017.

Rachel McQueen, added: “We’re delighted to see that these areas of spend have increased. Lancashire has a much-admired food & drink offer, as evidenced by recent accolades.

From two Michelin star Moor Hall, one Michelin star Northcote and The White Swan at Fence, to the highest quality food pubs such as Freemason’s at Wiswell, Parkers Arms and The Cartford Inn, which all feature in the Top 50 UK gastro pubs.

“These establishments have some of the country’s finest food producers on their doorstep and our work to help champion producers as well as Lancashire’s restaurants, pubs and cafes through the Taste Lancashire campaign, continues to put the spotlight on the county’s food and drink sector.”

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BAE Systems’ WEnDL system enhancing air traffic situational awareness for military aircraft pillots

Lyndhurst Precision Engineering increases its offering with in-house Waterjet facility CHORLEY-based, Lyndhurst Precious Engineering has installed a state-of-the-art Waterjet facility in response to increased demand for its bespoke engineering services.

Installed to complement the wide range of precision engineering solutions offered by Lyndhurst, the Omax 55100 Waterjet Machining Centre cost £120,000 and has already contributed to Lyndhurst’s projects across the aerospace, nuclear and energy sectors, with its high-speed precision machining capabilities.

The Waterjet was provided, alongside training for the Lyndhurst team, by local firm, Aquajet Holdings. The machine is capable of precision cutting a range of materials up to 250mm thick, including cast iron. Unlike laser cutters, the Waterjet can slice through both metal and non-metallic materials such as rubber, plastics, ceramic tiles, even carpets and ceramic tiles with amazing precision.

Mark Marriner, managing director, Lyndhurst Precision Engineer, said: “Our investment in the Waterjet facility is a clear reflection of the growing demand for our precision engineering services and offers a potential revenue increase for the business of circa £250,000 a year.

“The Omax 55100 is already proving to be a vital tool for us and is being utilised in a variety of projects across several sectors.

“Furthermore, as demand for our precision cutting service increases, we aim to employ an additional two more experienced Waterjet operatives, who will join the Lyndhurst team.”

BAE Systems has created a low-cost system that uses existing satellite navigation and commercial aircraft data to improve airspace safety.

Using the Web Enabled Data Links (WEnDL) system military aircraft can now use vital information about nearby civil aircraft to aid pilot decision-making.

Over the past two years, BAE Systems has been assessing the Automatic Dependent Surveillance—Broadcast (ADS–B) system as a means of passing civilian aircraft flight data via a tactical data link gateway enabling military aircraft to monitor general air traffic.

ADS-B is a surveillance technology which tracks and broadcasts the location of aircraft using satellite navigation. The WEnDL system can access the data transmitted from ADS-B, channel the relevant information in a simple format and make it available to military aircraft.

This system is now fully operational and is being used by earlier tranches of Typhoon aircraft

being test-flown at BAE Systems’ site at Warton, Lancashire and is proving to offer exceptional enhanced situational awareness to the pilots.

Steve Formoso, Chief Test Pilot at BAE Systems, said: “WEnDL is a key enabler to the safety and efficiency of test flying operations at our Warton site. The information that WEnDL brings in to the cockpit allows our test crews to operate with greater flexibility as well as increasing their all-round situational awareness of other air traffic around the aircraft during sorties.”

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Preston manufacturer features in photo awards

A PHOTOGRAPH taken at Leach Structural Steelwork in Preston has been shortlisted in a national competition celebrating the strength and diversity of the UK manufacturing

thermal cutting machine used by Leach to produce highly complex steel structures.

Niek’s photo is shortlisted in the EEF Manufacturing Photography Competition open to young, amateur and professional photographers.

The competition theme – Celebrating Everyday Manufacturing – reflects the strength and diversity of today’s UK manufacturing sector and entrants were encouraged to capture British products, components or processes in creative or abstract ways.

The winners will be announced at sector. a celebration event in Westminster Advanced technology used at on November 20. Prizes include a the facility is the subject of an image share of £5,000, a day’s training course captured by amateur photographer worth up to £800, an MP guided Niek Braam. It shows an 8-axis robotic tour of the House of Commons, and

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a year’s membership of The Guild of Photographers. The winning photos will also be displayed in ministerial offices, at EEF premises across the country, at the EEF Future Manufacturing Awards 2018 and EEF National Manufacturing Conference & Dinner, and at some of Britain’s busiest railway stations.

Stephen Phipson CBE, CEO of EEF, said: “Manufacturing is a highly dynamic part of the economy and the perfect illustration of British ingenuity, creativity and innovation.

This year’s shortlist has reached a new standard for the quality of photographs, reflecting the diversity and breadth of sectors across the UK who are at the leading edge of technology.”

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Workplace mental health – tips for employers AS we approach National Stress Awareness day (Wednesday 7 November), stress awareness and mental wellbeing has never been so topical for employers and rightly so. According to figures released by HSE last year, it is estimated that 526,000 workers are suffering from work related stress, depression or anxiety.

It is further estimated that 12.5 million working days were lost as a result of work related stress or anxiety in 2016 to 2017, at a huge annual cost to UK businesses. These statistics suggest that approximately 14% of work related stress, depression or anxiety is caused by lack of support and around 44% is attributable to an individual’s workload.

Your duty as an employer Health and safety legislation obliges employers to assess the risk of stress in the work place and take steps to reduce it. Further, with mental ill health allegedly being accountable for around 40% of all workplace absences, it is important that employers are able to effectively manage the stress levels of their employees and can spot the warning signs of work related stress, depression or anxiety.

HSE recognises six main areas of an employee’s work life which can affect stress levels and should subsequently be monitored by employers.

• The demands of the job. Employees may become stressed if they cannot cope with the volume or level of work they have to do.

• The level of control over work. Employees may perform poorly if they feel they have no control over how and when they do their work • Lack of support from managers and colleagues can lead to higher levels of sickness absence.

• Relationships at work. Failure to build relationships based on good behaviour and trust can lead to problems related to discipline, grievances and bullying • How a role fits within the organisation.

Employees may feel anxious about their work if they are unaware of what is expected of them or understand how their work fits into the objectives of the organisation.

• Change and how it is managed.

Employers should be mindful of the above scenarios outlined by HSE and should consider how they may negatively impact their employees.

It is also important to consider the fact that different employees may react to stress in different ways. For example, factors such as, age, skill, experience or disability may all affect the way in which a person reacts to stress.

Minimising stress in the work place So, what can you do as an employer to minimise stress in the work place?

Promote positive mental health Mental health is still regarded as a “taboo” subject by many and therefore employees may feel uncomfortable discussing their mental health with their employer.

Promoting a positive culture around mental health and wellbeing could reduce stigma, subsequently reducing stress in the work place. It may be helpful to make employees aware of how mental health is managed within an organisation and maintain an open dialogue around the subject.

Further, it is important that employers ensure that their managers are empathetic towards an employee who highlights that they are feeling stressed at work.

Provide adequate training Many employers will be less comfortable dealing with someone with mental health problems than someone with a physical disability.

In order to manage this problem, it is essential that line managers are trained on how to recognise and manage common mental health problems.

Similarly, it is essential that new employees are given sufficient training to ensure that they feel confident in carrying out their duties. This reduces the likelihood of employees feeling unable to handle their responsibilities, therefore reducing the chance of stress.

Manage employee absence Employers should ensure that they actively manage employee absence in terms of both occasional and long term absence. Employers should also consider holding “return to work” interviews to provide an opportunity to establish the problem and make a plan with the employee going forward.

Employers may also wish to consider the involvement of Occupational Health, particularly in cases of long term absence.

HR Policies Employers should also consider their HR policies, making sure that they are up to date and take into account how their grievance, dispute or redundancy processes could affect an employee’s mental health.

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UCLan announces partnership with National Nuclear Laboratory THE University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) will be working alongside the National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) following an announcement of a new partnership.

The joint venture between UCLan and NNL will see the two organisations evaluate projects in the nuclear sector to better understand the public value that they add.

Both organisations have been working together on the portfolio of policy science, with an emphasis on public value, that will enable them to better conduct research and advance the education of the public.

Dr Lynne Livesey, Deputy Vice

Chancellor (Academic) at UCLan, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to jointly collaborate on new policy implementation in the nuclear sector.

“Together we’ll develop innovative work in public value management for local, regional and international benefit at our Westlakes Science and Technology Park situated in Cumbria.

“We aim to be part of wider portfolio of case studies including the NDA and ESA working with collaborators to achieve wider public benefit.”

Along with the Samuel Lindow Foundation, UCLan has developed a portfolio of policy science work at

Westlakes over the last 25 years.

As partners, UCLan and NNL will be developing a programme that examines the value and impact of nuclear projects, and both enterprises will work with stakeholders, customers, local government and sections of the public.

Representatives from both organisations signed a Memorandum of Understanding at a special signing ceremony, held in Cumbria.

Dr Paul Howarth, CEO of the National Nuclear Laboratory, said “The value to the public of science and technology goes way beyond the basic monetary measures of cost and return

on investment and impacts so many other areas in the public sphere.

“It’s right that science and technology and particularly nuclear, and its contribution to public value is considered in this way.

“I’m delighted that we’re working more closely with colleagues at UCLan and the Samuel Lindow Foundation to better understand the value that nuclear brings to the public and also to extend this work to achieve a greater appreciation of energy economics as we move forward with nuclear power as a key part of the wider energy mix.”

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Winners of the Lancashire Tourism Awards 2018 revealed LANCASHIRE’S shining stars have been announced at a glittering celebration of Lancashire’s £4.25 billion visitor economy at the Lancashire Tourism Awards.

More than 400 people descended on new Preston venue, Imperial Banqueting, to find out the winners of 22 categories at the prestigious annual event, supported by headline sponsor University of Central Lancashire.

Blackpool-born star of West End, stage and TV Jodie Prenger was guest presenter, bringing her Lancastrian humour to the proceedings and entertaining guests

with her incredible voice, as she performed some of her favourite songs.

This annual event organised by Marketing Lancashire, recognises the contribution made by the county’s tourism and hospitality businesses, and names winners in 22 categories. There are also Highly Commended awards in three categories. This year, over 100 finalists competed for the prestigious titles and progressed through shortlisting, mystery shopping and interviews by panels of experts to arrive at last night’s much-anticipated awards ceremony.

Rachel McQueen, Chief Executive of Marketing Lancashire, said:: “A thriving Lancashire tourism sector contributes to the economy, to employment, to the culture, the quality of life and the prosperity of Lancashire. The Lancashire Tourism Awards reminds us of the diversity the county has and how privileged we are to have such amazing experiences to offer visitors.”

THE FINALISTS AND WINNERS – LANCASHIRE TOURISM AWARDS 2018 (Winners in bold) Wedding Venue Award Fisherman’s Retreat, Ramsbottom Hipping Hall, Kirkby Lonsdale Holmes Mill, Clitheroe – WINNER Leighton Hall, Carnforth Ribby Hall Village, Wrea Green Stanley House Hotel & Spa, Mellor New Business Award A’Vucciria, Rawtenstall Castle View, Lancaster Clip’n Climb Blackpool Fence Gate Lodge, Fence The Lawrence Hotel, Padiham – WINNER L’Escargotiere, Bowland No. 10, Preston The Rookery Holiday Cottage, Roughlee Taste Lancashire Restaurant Award Bay Horse Inn, Lancaster Twelve Restaurant, Thornton – WINNER Hipping Hall, Kirkby Lonsdale The Midland, Morecambe – HIGHLY COMMENDED Taste Lancashire Pub/Inn Award The Aspinall Arms, Mitton The Assheton Arms, Downham Bay Horse Inn, Lancaster Fence Gate, Fence The Spread Eagle, Mellor The Spread Eagle Inn, Sawley – WINNER Taste Lancashire Producer Award Batch Brew, Burnley – WINNER Bowland Brewery, Clitheroe Calyx Drinks, Burnley Choc Amor, Mawdesley Northern Whisper Brewing Co, Rawtenstall Wignalls Yallo, Standish Holiday Village Award Pipers Height Caravan Park, Blackpool Ream Hills Holiday Park, Weeton – WINNER Rossendale Holiday Cottages South Lakeland Leisure Village, Carnforth Stanley Villa Farm Fishing & Camping, Greenhalgh Self-Catering Holiday Award Laythams Holiday Lets Retreat, Slaidburn – WINNER

Newton Hall Holiday Apartments, Blackpool Rossendale Holiday Cottages Water Babies Narrow Boat Hire, Forton Wolfen Mill Boutique Self Catering, Chipping Sustainable Tourism Award The Bee Centre, Preston – WINNER Browsholme Hall, Clitheroe Fell End Holiday Park, Carnforth Moss Wood Caravan Park, Lancaster Lancashire Large Hotel Award Hotel Sheraton, Blackpool The Legacy Preston International Hotel The Wrightington Hotel & Health Club – WINNER Business Tourism Award Browsholme Hall, Clitheroe Ribby Hall Village, Wrea Green Winter Gardens Blackpool – WINNER The Wrightington Hotel & Health Club Lancashire Perfect Stay Award The Assheton Arms, Downham Bartle Hall Hotel, Preston The Borough, Lancaster The Spread Eagle Inn, Sawley – WINNER Small Visitor Attraction Award Go Ape Rivington Leighton Hall, Carnforth Mrs Dowsons Farm Park, Blackburn Shores Hey Farm, Burnley Thornton Hall Country Park – WINNER Large Visitor Attraction Award Ascent Trampoline Park, Blackpool Blackpool Zoo Brockholes Nature Reserve, Preston East Lancashire Railway – WINNER Madame Tussauds Blackpool – HIGHLY COMMENDED Retail Experience Award Bowland Food Hall, Clitheroe Fleetwood Market – WINNER Heskin Hall Shopping Village, Chorley JAK Hanson, Wrightington Preston Markets

Visitor Experience Award Artisan Foodworks, Burscough The Bee Centre, Preston – WINNER Blackpool Heritage Tram Tours A Brief Encounter with Leighton Hall, Carnforth – HIGHLY COMMENDED Cultural Venue/Organisation Award Blackburn Cathedral – WINNER Blackpool Heritage Tram Tours The Boo, Waterfoot Carnforth Station Heritage Centre The Whitaker, Rossendale Inclusive Tourism Award The Bee Centre, Preston Sandcastle Waterpark, Blackpool – WINNER Dog Friendly Award The Aspinall Arms, Mitton Holiday Inn Express Burnley Ribble Valley Country & Leisure Park, Gisburn Rossendale Holiday Cottages – WINNER Taste Lancashire Café/Tearoom Award Brew + Bake, Preston The Dearden Tea Rooms, Haslingden – WINNER Middle Holly Cottage Tea Rooms, Forton Shores Hey Farm Café, Burnley Tourism Superstar Award Roger Borrell, Lancashire Life Magazine Barbara Bryan, Mytton Fold Hotel & Golf Complex Simon Entwistle, Top Hat Tours – WINNER James Whewell, Wyresdale Park Small Event Award Burnley Canal Festival Chorley Live – WINNER The Penny Farm Open Day, Blackpool A Thornton Hall Farm Christmas Adventure Treasure Island, The Dukes Theatre, Lancaster Worsthorne and Hurstwood Scarecrow Festival Large Event Award Festival of Making, Blackburn – WINNER Highest Point Festival, Lancaster Light up Lancaster Vintage by the Sea, Morecambe

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Preston apprentice wins prestigious regional award

Pride Awards’ winners celebrated LANCASHIRE County Council employees and volunteers who have been nominated by their colleagues for their outstanding work have been recognised at a special awards ceremony.

Judges sifted through hundreds of entries to decide the winners of the Pride Awards, which showcase some of the outstanding work being carried out across the organisation. Staff were asked to nominate people who had made a real difference to the lives and communities of the people of Lancashire.

Categories included Volunteer of the Year, Making a Difference to the Community, Team of the Year, Employee of the Year, Manager of the Year and four Unsung Hero awards.

Amongst those who collected awards was Cathy Jenkins, a support worker on the Children Awaiting Adoption Team, who was nominated as an Unsung Hero for Education and Children’s Services.

Cathy, who has worked for the council for more than 20 years, was praised for always looking for new ways to support the children she works with. The awards ceremony heard that she had recently worked with the Supporting Carers of Children and Young People Team to develop a book for youngsters explaining the next steps for them during the adoption process.

The audience was also told how she goes out of her way to ensure the children feel as reassured as possible prior to their move to their adoptive family.

Team of the Year was Chorley-based Fosterfield Day Centre, which for the past 30 years has been serving older people and those with various needs living in the community.

The awards heard how the team goes above and beyond, not only looking after those who come and spend time at the day centre but also in fundraising for a variety of activities and services. This year alone they have raised over £2,000 that’s gone towards a potting shed with wheelchair access and funding towards various trips out, including one to Blackpool illuminations.

Laura Orrell, day centre officer at Fosterfield, said: “We’re passionate about building a future for people who use

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Awards

Fosterfield.

“It’s an honour to be in this role and work alongside staff, volunteers and the community, who all make a huge difference to people’s lives.”

Volunteer of the year was presented to Jamie Heaton, who is a community support officer and befriender. He provides vital support to a member of his community, who was referred to the volunteer service because he needed extra help.

His nominator said Jamie had changed the man’s life, adding: “He is truly an inspiration and the perfect role model to the people of Lancashire and shows that with commitment and kindness he can change the world for a person.”

The other winners were: Unsung Heroes, Customer Services Advisor Daniel Murray, who called 999 when a customer started having breathing difficulties, Occupational Therapist Sharon Corkish, who ‘has always gone above and beyond in her role’, and Martin Evans, a cleaning operative at Brierfield Neighbourhood Centre, who is always willing to help at the ‘drop of a hat’; Making a Difference to the Community, St Pauls Primary School teaching assistant Dean Rush, who was described by his nominator as ‘a ray of sunshine’; Manager of the Year, Mark Davies, of Bowerham Road Children’s Home, and Employee of the Year, Thomas Garner, who provides business support for the team who search for fostering and residential placements for Children’s Services.

Geoff Driver CBE, leader of the council, said: “As one of the judges, I know just how tough it was choosing the winners from all our fantastic staff, and they should all be very proud.

“I would like to congratulate them for their hard work and going above and beyond to serve the people of Lancashire.”

Angie Ridgwell, chief executive and director of resources, said: “Every single one of the finalists was well and truly deserving of our praise and recognition.

“All demonstrated the qualities and values expected of the council’s employees, and the Pride Awards is just one of the ways we recognise their contribution to services in the county.”

A TALENTED young apprentice from BAE Systems has won a prestigious regional apprentice award at this year’s EEF Future Manufacturing Awards.

Heather Johnson, who works for BAE Systems as a Business Procurement Apprentice came up trumps by taking gold in the Business Apprentice Award.

The award recognises the outstanding contribution being made by manufacturing apprentices across the region.

The award is highly-respected and hotly contested with winners selected by a panel of judges drawn from business leaders, industry experts and academics.

Heather beat off competition from across the region and won the title after impressing judges with her commitment, ambition and drive to pursue a career in manufacturing. Heather’s passion, hard work and attention to detail, along with her ambitions for a managerial role within the sector were the deciding factors for the judging panel.

Judges said they had been overwhelmed by the high calibre of apprentices nominated this year, making Heather’s win even more of an achievement.

Heather is now in the running for the national title where she will go head-to-head with regional winners from across the UK at the national awards gala in London in January next year.

Heather Johnson, Business Procurement Apprentice at BAE Systems, said: “I am delighted to have won this award and to have been crowned regional winner.

It’s an amazing feeling to be recognised for doing

something I genuinely enjoy and is setting me up for my future. I’m only at the very start of my career, so to receive gold at these awards and be singled out in this way is a real boost and will motivate me even more.

“My apprenticeship is challenging and rewarding and I hope my success encourages others to think hard about taking up an apprenticeship in manufacturing too. Now I can’t wait to get to the national finals to meet the other regional winners and see how I compare.”

Richard Halstead, Membership Director for the North at EEF, said: “Heather undoubtedly deserves this award. She won the judges over with her hard work, enthusiasm and dedication.

It’s right that she should be congratulated for doing so well, especially when up against other candidates of such high quality.”

“Manufacturing is essential to British economic success and apprentices have a vital role to play in securing the future of our sector. It’s great to see Heather’s efforts being recognised and I wish her the best of luck at the national finals, she’s a fantastic role model.”

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Rossendale Business Awards winners announced WHEN a Haslingden butcher was announced as the most innovative business he received a standing ovation from the borough’s Mayor.

Councillor Ann Kenyon, and the rest of the audience at the ninth Rossendale Business Awards, applauded Darren Law of DT Law butchers for his innovation and ambition.

At a packed function hall at The Riverside, Whitworth, Darren was awarded the top Valley at Work Award, a beautiful glass trophy engraved by Alexis Valentine of Walking on Glass with scenes depicting The Boo to celebrate the Horse and Bamboo Theatre’s 40th anniversary.

More than 200 businesses, sponsors and supporters were in attendance.

Darren dedicated his win to his late father and said: “I am so proud. My dad would be so proud too if he was still here. He loaned me the money in the first place to buy his shop in Blackburn Road; I also paid him back.”

The business, which has expanded into a bakery and deli and has an online service, serves 2,500 customers a week.

He said: “I have no idea who nominated us and I found it hard to really tell my story on the

application form. I come from council estate in Bacup with nothing and I have worked my way up.

“I have always wanted to work by myself and progress in life and you get to a certain point and think let’s go to the next league.”

That next league involved buying next door, knocking through and expanding the business.

He not only won the top award, he also netted the Business of the Year trophy for companies employing more than 11 staff.

He is now planning to celebrate the success by refurbishing the shop and his collection of trophies will be back on display at The Riverside when he has a stall at the Christmas Fair.

It was an evening of celebration and a cheer went up when Anna’s Café Bar, in Weir, won the Invest In Rossendale title.

Anna Preece took to bold decision to invest in an empty shop and provide a hub that the whole community has embraced.

Whitworth Mayor Madeline de Souza said: “We all know Rossendale is a lovely place to live, work and visit. We have towns and villages and a community second to none.

“We have niche businesses and not for profit

organisations that contribute an enormously to the Valley and a thriving Valley means thriving businesses.”

Describing the event as fantastic Rossendale’s Mayor Coun Kenyon urged everyone to do more to encourage enterprise in young people.

The awards are organised by Valley at Work and Chair Rob Carder said this year’s had the highest number of nominations.

He told the audience: “There are 2,600 businesses in Rossendale and 118 were nominated, more than 40 were selected as finalists and that means you are among the top two percent.”

This year the Rossendale Free Press award for corporate social responsibility was linked with the Rossendale Hospice Business Challenge.

Businesses were given £50 and asked to make it grow, using their skills. The money raised by the six participating businesses, along with a raffle on the awards night, raised nearly £6,000 for Rossendale Hospice.

Half-time entertainment was provided by young members of Dansworks Dance Academy in Bacup.

Full list of winners: Valley at Work Award Winner: D T LAW BUTCHERS Accessible Business sponsored by Ayesha Communications Winner: The Old Library Waterfoot CIC Apprenticeship sponsored by Accrington & Rossendale College Winner: Arthouse Ltd Highly Commended: HEADMASTERS LANCASHIRE Business of The Year (5-10 Employees) sponsored by Cassons Chartered Accountants Winner: GrowTraffic Ltd Business of The Year (11+ Employees) sponsored by Cassons Chartered Accountants Winner: D T LAW BUTCHERS Creative Business sponsored by GrowTraffic

Winner: Deni-Deni Employer of The Year sponsored by Metis HR Winner: HEADMASTERS LANCASHIRE Highly Commended: Orthoplastics Limited Enterprising Woman sponsored by Dawn Rose Contemporary Jewellery & Accessories Winner: Jane Boys Enterprising Young Person sponsored

by Rossendale High Schools Winner: Grace Bradshaw (Alder Grange) Food and Drink Business sponsored

by Valley at Work Winner: A’Vucciria Highly Commended: Northern Whisper Brewing Co Ltd

Independent Retailer sponsored by Rawtenstall Chamber of Commerce Winner: Ruby & Daisy Highly Commended: D T LAW BUTCHERS Invest In Rossendale sponsored by Invest in Rossendale Winner: Anna’s Café-Bar Highly Commended: The Old Library Waterfoot CIC MicroBusiness sponsored by Melbec Microbiology Winner: Pinnacle Stonemasonry Ltd Highly Commended: Deni-Deni Not for Profit sponsored by Woodcocks Haworth & Nuttall Winner: M3 Project Ltd Part Time Business sponsored by Winter Solicitors Winner: Mini Me Time

Rossendale Free Press Award Business Challenge in association with Rossendale Hospice Snapper & Hack – Liz Henson Photography and Catherine Smyth Media Service Business sponsored by Tricketts Insurance Brokers Winner: Bright & Beautiful Sole Trader sponsored by Chic Boutique Travel Winner: Olly’s Woodland Learning Highly Commended: Catherine Smyth Media Visit Rossendale sponsored by Visit Rossendale Winner: The Whitaker Museum, Art Gallery + Cultural Hub Highly Commended: Lucardo Rawtenstall escape games

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National industry award for Lancashire site manager REDROW site manager, Simon Nix, has secured one of the UK building industry’s most prestigious awards.

The 51-year-old from Leyland has been named Residential Construction Professional of the Year 2018 at the Grand Finals of the LABC Building Excellence Awards in London.

And, in a major coup for Redrow’s Lancashire team, it’s the second time in two years that one of their site managers has collected the top trophy.

Simon, who has managed Redrow’s The Hedgerows site in Clayton-le Woods for the last four years, adds the coveted national title to a string of other accolades including three NHBC Pride in the JobQuality Awards and two NHBC Seal of Excellence awards, the most recent received only last month.

He said: “It’s the only national award I have won. I am totally blown away! To have won the LABC North West regional Construction Professional of the Year award earlier this year was one thing, but I certainly wasn’t expecting to win the national title.”

According to Simon, organisation is key, along with creating and encouraging the best possible team: “Every day I try to be the best that I can and do the best that I can – and encourage the lads on site to do the same.

“It’s not just about when you are going to get a visit from an inspector or a customer, it’s about all the time.

I have weekly meetings and daily meetings to address any issues or look at where I feel we can raise standards.

You won’t win awards unless you keep improving.

“I like to keep a nice, tidy site. You will never achieve perfection, but I am very particular, and I always ask myself if I would like to buy ‘this house’, or live in ‘this house’, from this site. If the answer is yes, then I’m happy, and I am fortunate that Redrow support me and motivate me every step of the way.”

The experienced site manager, who’s married with a 10-year-old son, Joshua, was put forward for the LABC Residential Construction Professional of the Year Award by the local authority building control team from

Chorley Council.

His nomination was judged by a panel of industry experts who considered a number of high-quality projects and professionals from across England and Wales, looking to reward the best in technical innovation, sustainability and design.

LABC chief executive Paul Everall congratulated Simon on his achievement, crediting his success not just to his skills but to his dedication; a deserving winner who is always prepared to ‘go that extra mile’ as part of his role.

The judges praised his ability to encourage team work among his colleagues and combine delivering high-quality development projects while building trust and positive

relationships with the local communities they are in.

Redrow construction director Keith Collard was equally enthusiastic about Simon’s outstanding and continued success: “THE LABC Building Excellence Awards are designed to showcase the very best in the building industry; the innovative and creative solutions needed to overcome difficult site conditions and issues; and the professionalism that leads to safe, sustainable and highquality construction projects.

“While such excellence can only be achieved by teamwork and the commitment of all those involved, it takes a special person to bring everything and everyone together, to pursue and accomplish that goal.”

Preston law firm scoops five awards at prestigious London conveyancing awards BIRCHALL Blackburn Law took home five awards for their exceptional customer service in conveyancing at the prestigious ESTAS Awards hosted in London.

The firm bagged, Best Regional Group – Gold, Best in County – Southport, North West (South) – Manchester, Silver, North West (North) – Preston, Bronze and North West (North) – Southport, Silver.

The ESTAS Awards determine the best conveyancing firms in the UK based purely on feedback from customers who are asked a series of questions about the service they have received from their conveyancer or solicitor. 8,000 surveys were completed by customers during the competition.

The awards were hosted by Phil Spencer at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London.

Rachel Buckley, partner at Birchall Blackburn Law said: “We’re thrilled to have won so many awards this year, following on from our outstanding success in 2017 of winning 11 in 2017, the department is very proud. The wins are due to everyone’s continued hardwork and dedication to customer satisfaction.”

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Levity CropScience targets UK cereal market with Elona BILSBORROW-based agronomy specialist, Levity CropScience, is targeting the UK cereal market following successful trials of its new product, Elona.

In independent field trials, Elona, has increased yields for growers of arable crops including wheat and barley. Developed

by Levity’s scientists, Elona enhances the crop’s ability to photosynthesise, as well as improving the supply of manganese, a nutrient commonly deficient in UK cereal crops, leading to greater yields.

Wheat is the biggest crop in the UK, with 15 million tonnes produced annually on two million hectares

of land. In the UK, winter wheat is sown between September and November and harvested the following August or September.

David Marks, comanaging director, Levity CropScience, said: “Farmers in the UK use a lot of manganese to correct a deficiency, but the formulations on the market are high analysis but low efficacy. Elona improves the uptake and processing of this important nutrient and the research gained from independent field trials show that compared to standard products, Elona makes a big difference to photosynthesis as well as crop health and yields.

“We export our products around the world to countries including Canada, the USA, UAE, Philippines and continental Europe, but we wanted to launch some products for our home market. This is the first of a series of Levity’s advanced products that will help British farmers improve yields on cereal crops.

“Elona has shown great results across UK farms this season, and we are excited to be able to launch this innovative product and build on the success we have had with potatoes here in the UK, with our industry-leading product, Lono.”

South West Ireland distillery to raise its profile in Lancashire DINGLE Distillery from County Kerry is jointly organising ‘A taste of Ireland’ dinner, with the renown Whalley based Breda Murphy restaurant, as the launch of a new initiative to raise its profile in Lancashire.

The four-course infused dinner will take place on the evening of Friday 16 November at the Breda Murphy restaurant, when James Fox, one of Dingle Distillery’s Brand Ambassadors for Northern England, will explain the story of Dingle Distillery, located on the wild Atlantic Way, a 2,500km journey winding its way around the west coast of Ireland.

Founded in 2012, Dingle Distillery is the first purposebuilt distillery in Ireland to open

in over 150 years. It produces its own spirit and is only the fourth distillery to make its own.

In only six years of production, Dingle Distillery has already won several national awards, including best Irish gin 2017 and 2018, as well as recently the best new Irish whiskey 2018 for Dingle single malt batch 3.

In celebration, Breda, one of Lancashire’s leading chefs, has used her knowledge of Irish cooking and culinary skills developed through working at several of the country’s leading restaurants, to devise an innovative, special menu, with her head chef Adam Jenyon, which reflects her background and influences. Each course will

be inspired and infused with one of the Dingle Distillery award winning products of Irish made gin, vodka and whiskey, to create a tasting experience which will be hard to forget.

Commenting on the dinner, Breda said: “As someone who was born and grew up in Ireland and who has owned a modern Irish and British cuisine restaurant in Whalley for over 12 years, I am extremely proud to be involved in an event which is at the start of raising the profile of Dingle Distillery in Lancashire.

“It has been a joy for us to devise a menu which incorporates their quality products and I am certain that our customers on the night will have a tasting

experience to remember. Tickets are selling fast, so you will need to be quick if you would like to attend” In response, James added: “Dingle Distillery wants everyone in the North of England to be aware of our outstanding branded products and I can not think of a better way to demonstrate them than at Breda’s leading Irish and British cuisine restaurant. I can not wait to sample their outstanding menu.”

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Cuadrilla brings first Lancashire shale gas to surface

CUADRILLA has announced that it has successfully produced shale gas to the surface at its Preston New Road exploration well in Lancashire, just as deliveries of Liquefied Natural Gas into the UK peak.

In the week that saw three tankers of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) arrive into the UK on the same day, Cuadrilla has announced that is has succeeded in flowing gas to the surface from the first of two horizontal wells to be hydraulically fractured (fracked) at its Preston New Road site in Little Plumpton.

“This is fantastic news, and a real credit to the expertise and tenacity of Cuadrilla and its partners,

Minister for Security joins Chamber President for 102nd AGM & President’s Lunch THE President of the North & Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, Dawn Cheetham, has called in the Government to start fixing some of the fundamentals to make business and the economy prosper.

Addressing the Chambers 102nd Annual General Meeting Dawn Cheetham called on the Government to develop a long-term prosperity plan for the country, devoid of politics.

Outlining the basics to one hundred local businesses in attendance she said:

proving that it is possible to safely recover gas from the rich shale deposits beneath our feet,” said Lee Petts, Chair at Lancashire For Shale.

“Earlier this week, we saw three LNG cargoes land into the UK on the same day, two of which were fracked shale gas from the United States. There is no justification for remaining so reliant on imports of costlier, less secure and higher emission LNG from abroad when we are sitting on a vast untapped source of our own gas here in Lancashire.

“The news that Cuadrilla has been able to produce gas to the surface sets the scene for the future development of a successful new industry, and will be welcomed by the business community for the

“Successive governments have acknowledged that more could be done to get the basics right for business. Indeed, the current government’s developing Industrial Strategy is up-front about many of these challenges.

Yet the leadership and the infrastructure simply aren’t there to make change happen.

“Business needs well maintained highways, new and improved railway infrastructure, capacity improvements at our airports, and new runways.”

Mrs. Cheetham, added:

“We need to unlock the great potential this country has from its own resources such as hydraulically fractured shale gas extraction. We need to build more homes, invest in connectivity, stabilize the training and apprenticeships system and end the annual tax wheezes that see businesses facing ever-higher financial burdens and cash flow pressures before they turn over a single pound.”

Minister for Security, The Rt. Hon. Ben Wallace MP, joined members at the event and spoke about his

benefits it will bring to the local economy.”

Responding to the announcement by Cuadrilla, Babs Murphy, chief executive of the North & Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce said: “This is great news and early indications are looking extremely promising. Shale gas represents a huge economic opportunity for Lancashire firms not only in terms of winning new business but also creating new jobs and generating new market opportunities.

It’s now up to all of us to work together to keep as much of these economic opportunities here in Lancashire. Cuadrilla has pledged to seek to buy local. It’s up to us now to raise our game, work together, and take full advantage of this”.

passion for the county, saying: “This region has a significant untapped potential in our natural reserves of shale gas.

We should look towards emerging technologies with a balanced and scientific approach.

“Cyber Crime is more prevalent than before and is significantly more lucrative for those involved in financial deceit, than traditional theft.

I have been urging Police and Crime Commissioners across the country to strengthen their approach to online crime that costs businesses, and

consumers, billions of pounds per year.”

The Minister promoted a suite of online Government resources to assist businesses and members of the public becoming victims of cyber fraud.

Concluding his address, the Minister paid testament to the work of the Chamber and representation exerted by the organisation on behalf of its members at all levels. Saying he was “particularly impressed with the Chamber’s approach to representing the businesses it serves”.

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Choc Amor wins double at international awards CHOC Amor was successful at the weekend in gaining a further two International Chocolate Awards 2018 at the World Finals. The first was for a milk chocolate which got a World Silver for Chilli Cappuccino and a further World Bronze in the dark category for Kalamata Olive Oil. Judging took place in Florence, Italy and the announcement was live at the Palazzo Ximènes-Panciatichi.

The Awards were founded in 2012 and are run by a group of independent international partners based in the UK, Italy and the USA, with years of experience tasting and evaluating chocolate and running fine chocolate related events. The rules and judging are overseen by our permanent Grand Jury members, Country Partners and independent experts, who set the rules of the Awards based on ongoing consultation with our entrants.

Competitions are held in a growing number of countries and regions around the world, including Italy, UK, USA, Germany, Scandinavia, Belgium,

South America and other locations, with more competitions added each year. Winners of the regional competitions are then judged again for the World Finals which are held in October, these celebrate the best entries of the year. Entry to the World Awards is open for any consumer retail products that meet the quality criteria laid down in the rules and which has won at the local country Awards.

By making consumers more aware of the hard work and craft that goes into the best fine chocolate products, the International Chocolate Awards helps the fine chocolate industry to grow and develop in established regions as well as new markets. By helping to identify the best chocolate made with the best cacao, it aims to help chocolate makers, chocolatiers and cacao farmers continue to succeed at producing the world’s best fine cacao and fine chocolate.

Paul Williams, Director and Umpa Lumpa Rustler at Choc Amor, said: “We are absolutely delighted to get

not only four awards in the British Championships for our flavoured chocolate but to also win a coveted World Award for two of those products which included a World Silver for Chilli Cappuccino. This now takes our total number of awards won this year to 12 & the overall total to 40 which includes 5 World Award

winners.

“It’s a real honour as we are in a very small minority of British World Winners. The International Chocolate Awards is an affirmation that we are producing a quality product and helps establish us as one of Lancashire’s premier award winning chocolatiers.”

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Lancashire jeweller dazzles with £13.7m operating profit incraese OPERATING profit before discretionary payments at Beaverbrooks the Jewellers increased to £13.7m during the 53 weeks ended 3 March 2018, its newly published accounts reveal.

The company’s ‘Annual Report and Financial Statements,’ shows a £1.4m operating profit increase from £12.3m to £13.7m in the 2017/18 period. Annual turnover also increased by 6.2 per cent from £119.2m to £126.5m (compared to prior year 52 weeks).

Despite competitive trading conditions during this 53-week period, profit margins were maintained with gross profit of £21.9m. The 99-year-old family owned company attributes this

success to remaining focused on quality diamonds, watches and jewellery, and excellent customer service.

Beaverbrooks also continued with its programme of investment during the period. This includes the continuing refurbishment of key retail stores and development of its website. The company also continued to invest significantly in its people with specific product training and further performance linked bonus structures being implemented.

As part of its mission to ‘enrich lives,’ the company donates 20 per cent of retained profits to charity and has this year donated £1.111m to charity. Since the year 2000,

Beaverbrooks has donated in excess of £12m to over 700 charities.

Beaverbrooks is the UK’s top jewellery retailer and second biggest supporter of Payroll Giving on the high street. 39 per cent of its employees were involved in Workplace Giving at the year-end; the national average is seven per cent. This has now increased to 45 per cent, for which it won the first ever ‘Diamond Quality Award’ in 2018 from H M Government for Payroll Giving.

During the period Beaverbrooks employees gave £42,765 (2017: £29,069) through Payroll Giving.

The net donation is 100 per cent matched by the company resulting in total donations of £74,755 (2017:

£51,163).

Mark Adlestone OBE DL FGA, Chairman of Beaverbrooks, said: “We’ve just had the four most profitable years in our history which we’re delighted with.

“However, success at Beaverbrooks is not only measured in financial terms. A strong commitment to the learning and development of all our people, an open and honest company culture and commitment to the wider community in which we work, are all borne out in the many accolades awarded to the company during this period.

“As we approach our centenary in 2019, I’m excited for the future of Beaverbrooks.”

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Cutting Edge launches exclusive Guardian Safety Bandsaw system CUTTING Edge has partnered with new zealand based manufacturers, kando innovation, to launch the state-of-the-art Guardian Bandsaw to customers in the UK & Ireland.

Designed from the ground up as a safety bandsaw system, the Guardian uses a combination of high definition cameras, lasers and a unique braking mechanism to stop the blade within a fraction of a second when a risk of injury is detected.

The highly advanced braking system sets the Guardian apart from competitors not only in the speed of the stoppage, but also by simultaneously detensioning the blade to prevent damage to the mechanism or the blade itself.

The safety bandsaw system also provides detailed reporting, powerful data analytics and video recordings including an instant alert system when a trigger event occurs. This information can be combined in customised and secure dashboards, allowing technical managers and supervisors to train operators, reduce risks and improve performance.

Sam Tinsley, Managing Director

at Cutting Edge, said this about the launch: “We are incredibly proud to be working in partnership with worldleading innovators like Kando to offer our customers the latest solutions & technology available from across the globe. At Cutting Edge we are driven by the needs of our customers and the Guardian Bandsaw positively answers two major demands from the industry: improving safety in what has historically been a high-risk area, and providing an unrivalled level of management information to improve efficiency.”

Business Support

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Nublue launches new cloud hosting solution LANCASHIRE based Magento ecommerce and hosting agency Nublue are launching a new hosting platform powered by Amazon Web Services (AWS) for fast-growing ecommerce stores.

Their latest hosting solution utilises Amazon’s renowned AWS Cloud Infrastructure along with the performance and usability benefits of Nublue’s current Magento hosting solutions. This gives merchants the flexibility to grow their hosting resources to significant levels quickly and easily, without the traditional restraints associated with physical hardware.

This is vital during busy periods, such as the run up to Christmas and Black Friday, as their AWS server can be scaled to take on current and short-term increased capacity needs.

Nublue’s Product and Support Manager Ewan MacLeod further outlines the benefits of AWS hosting; “By marrying the advantages of hosting your website on the AWS Cloud with

our advanced management and excellent customer support, you gain the benefits of hardware redundancy and swift resource upgrades to meet your business needs – while we look after your hosting for you, handling complex systems on your behalf so you can focus on the success and growth of your ecommerce store.”

Nublue’s Technical Director Tom Ashworth, said: “Cloud infrastructure provides Merchants with exceptional performance, unrivalled flexibility, agility and resource availability. In an increasingly agile business world we think that AWS ecommerce hosting is the future. We’re thrilled to bring all the benefits of cloud infrastructure to our clients with our Managed AWS Ecommerce hosting.”

MCK Contract Services builds on strong foundations BURNLEY-based MCK Contract Services Ltd. is celebrating, following a bumper second year of trading for the firm. Turnover for the construction specialist has increased 20% and the firm’s portfolio of clients has grown threefold.

Founded in 2016 by Michael Preston, MCK Contract Services offers a range of constructionbased services, including project management, quantity surveying, health and safety audits, pre-qualification questionnaires, tendering and estimating.

Key projects include project management work

for United Utilities, on developments worth more than £500k, as well as securing other projects for clients totalling over £3m, for Everton Football Club’s new training ground stand, upgrading to the Heli-pad at Royal Preston Hospital and highways developments at Fulwood Retail Park.

The Construction specialist has also contributed to a number of fundraising initiatives, most recently sponsoring the match ball at the Lenny Johnrose charity match between former Burnley Football Club and Swansea City Football Club players, an event that raised more than £10,000 for the Len

Johnrose Trust.

Michael Preston, Founder, MCK Contract Services, said: “It has been a fantastic first two years of trading, we’ve worked on exciting projects across the North-West and further afield.

“Our increase in turnover, based on the prominent projects we have worked on and secured for our clients, exemplifies our rapid growth and strong credibility within the construction industry.

“As we grow, it’s important to give back to the community and we will continue to sponsor and support many worthy causes in the future.”

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Lancaster and Colombian researchers working together for sustainable peace

Levity CropScience moves into Chinese market BILSBORROW-based agronomy specialist, Levity CropScience, has secured both a partner and its first order for the Chinese market.

Sobel Crop Nutrition Co. has agreed to work as a partner and to distribute Levity’s innovative products; Lono, Indra, Sulis, Albina and Damu to growers across the country. The products will be used with tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, melons, apples and cherries in Shandong province, whilst the innovative fertilisers will be used to increase the resilience, health and size of yields of dragon fruit, oranges and banana crops in Guangdong province.

The smart fertilisers will also be used in other areas of China, on crops such as; potatoes, strawberries, jujubes and grapes.

Chinese fertiliser distributor, Sobel, based in Qingdao, in Shandong province, distributes several large brands across the Chinese market.

Levity’s innovative fertiliser products join the products of SQM, ADOB, Arysta, and Akzo Nobel offered by the distributor.

The decision to partner with Sobel was made following a series of visits to China by Levity CropScience Co-

Managing Directors, Anna Weston and David Marks. China is the latest addition to the firm’s portfolio of export nations, which includes; the USA, Egypt, Jordan and Ghana.

China is a world leader in agriculture, primarily producing rice, wheat, potatoes, tomato, sorghum, peanuts, tea, millet, barley, cotton, oilseed and soybeans. Whilst only accounting for 10 percent of arable land worldwide, China produces food for 20 percent of the world’s population.

Anna Weston, said: “Levity CropScience is excited to be offering its ground-breaking and innovative smart fertilisers to growers across China. Lono, Indra, Sulis, Albina and Damu will aid growers of a variety of crops across the country to produce healthier, more resilient and larger yields.

“Our partnership with Sobel Crop Nutrition Co. means Chinese growers will have easy access to the appropriate Levity products that will help them achieve their goals. We have already secured our first order in the country and we are positive China will develop into a key market for Levity CropScience.”

LANCASTER University Management School (LUMS) is leading one of ten new research projects to address issues facing Colombia’s transition from conflict to peace.

The projects, launched by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) in partnership with Columbia’s Administrative Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (Colciencias) have collectively been funded with £2.8 million through the Newton Fund. UK researchers will collaborate with colleagues in Colombia on projects designed to promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development using the arts, humanities and social sciences.

Magnus George, Senior Teaching Fellow in LUMS’ Department of Entrepreneurship and Strategy, is leading a project that will aim to empower former Columbian ‘combatants’ – those who have been involved in the frontline of the internal conflict- to develop entrepreneurship skills and generate new opportunities to re-enter the job market during the transition between conflict and peace. Working alongside Dr Andres Barrios from the University of the Andes in Columbia, Magnus will work with a small team of international researchers and local NGOs to focus on how to re-purpose the skills and experience former combatants have so they can identify problems in their communities and develop and test different solutions to address them – forming entrepreneurial ventures.

Magnus said: “The time between conflict and peace is extremely challenging, as people attempt to achieve some sense of normality again but are faced with a society that looks and feels altogether different.

“In the UK, it is common for

veterans to turn their hands to entrepreneurship as they have a wealth of skills, are highly motivated, have a great work ethic, strong networks and often have leadership and management skills that can be applied to a range of settings. We expect that the group in Columbia will be very similar – albeit set against a very different local context.

“LUMS has a strong track record of working with small businesses and developing entrepreneurs and this will give us the chance to take our models to an international community to see whether, together, we can design tailored versions to address local needs and maximise opportunities for the local area.”

Professor Andrew Thompson, UKRI Champion for International and Executive Chair of the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC), said: “These projects will contribute to a more just and peaceful world, enabling us to assess the causes and effects of long term conflict and promote sustainable development by starting a dialogue based on understanding and respect. It is heartening to see, in the Colombian context, research projects that take fresh approaches to tackling development challenges. As well as being insightful in themselves, I hope they will also open up new corridors of research practice within the arts, humanities, and social sciences.”

ACQUISITIONS

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Fat Media acquires Reading Room LANCASTER-based Fat media has acquired full-service digital agency, Reading Room.

Founded in 1996, with offices in London and Liverpool, Reading Room is a full-service digital agency which delivers creative digital solutions for a wide range and scale of clients across the UK & Europe.

Ranked as one of the UK’s top 25 digital agencies

by Econsultancy, the agency works with some of the most ambitious brands and influential organisations from industries and sectors such as; Public Sector, Built Environment, Sport, Retail, Tourism, Leisure, Food and Drink and Arts & Culture.

Reading Room’s services cover the full range of digital solutions, including

strategy and planning, user experience, web design and development, ecommerce, Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) and multi-channel digital advertising.

Their clients include; Kingspan, Middlesbrough Football Club, Taylor Wimpey, Countryside Properties, UK Coaching and The Royal Household.

David Durnford, CEO of Fat Media Group, commented: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to bring Reading Room into the Fat Media Group family, it’s a valuable addition and development to our existing digital services and business, and it extends our strategy of building a sophisticated full-service offering for customers, delivering digital

services across the UK and Europe.

Reading Room will retain its identity and will be a distinct business unit

within the Fat Media Group, collaborating with teams on clients and projects across the Group.”

Jamie Griffiths, Managing Director of Reading Room commented: “We have been focused on finding a new home for Reading Room, where we can collaborate with like-minded talented individuals. Joining the well-established, well respected Fat Media Group will energise our team, and continue to build on Reading Room’s current high-profile positioning within the digital agency sector. It’s a very exciting time, and the agency is looking forward to working with the Fat Media Group team and blowing our

collective clients away with what we can do together!”

David Durnford, added: “Fat Media Group have an established digital services offering, although as a focus of our ongoing growth and development we jumped at the opportunity to acquire such a wellrespected business and brand as Reading Room, with a talented team and an enviable client roster.

The agency has a highly experienced team of experts whom we are delighted to welcome into the Fat Media family, and we believe this addition will help us deliver enhanced services and solutions for our clients, both in the UK and internationally.”

Acumen expands with Wyre acquisition WEST Lancashire-based IFA firm Acumen Financial Partnership is expanding further north into the county with the acquisition of a company based in Pilling, Wyre.

Acumen, founded in 2006 with its head office in Burscough, has completed the takeover of Wyre Investment and Financial Management, taking on two staff, 400 active clients and funds under management of around £40m.

Angela Maher, founder of Acumen, said: “In the last two years, Acumen has achieved record growth of over 60%.

“This acquisition is another important step forward as it sees us significantly increase our client base,

open our first branch office and gain a foothold in North Lancashire.

“This process has taken many months of deliberations, but I can say it puts Acumen in a much stronger position as we look to continue to grow and develop our firm.”

Jon Landy, director at Acumen added: “We’ve also gained two

new employees with huge industry knowledge and experience.

“Senior adviser Liz Warren and support executive Jayne Clarke will continue to head up the Pilling office so clients of Wyre Investments will still be able to rely on the same great service and advice under Acumen.”

Liz Warren, founder of Wyre

Investments, said: “We’re thrilled both to become part of the Acumen family and to begin working in partnership with Angela and Jon. “Like us, they have a proven trackrecord in delivering clear, friendly, quality advice and we’re excited to be taking this positive step forward together.”

BMW 320i M SPORT SALOON AUTO MONTHLY RENTALS FROM ÂŁ265 Plus ÂŁ795 initial rental*

CO2 149 g/km

BIK

37%

MPG 44 mpg combined

If you are self-employed, a company car driver or manage a fleet fewer than 50 company cars, the award-winning BMW Business Partnership has been designed specifically for you. The full range of BMW models are available to order, along with compelling contract hire rates and comprehensive service and maintenance packages.

Lloyd Motor Group Your next partner in Business.

BMW X6 xDRIVE30d M SPORT MONTHLY RENTALS FROM £434 Plus £3,903 initial rental*

CO2

183g/km

BIK

41%

MPG 40 mpg (COMBINED)

Visit www.lloydmotorgroup.com/BMW for more information or to arrange a test drive^, please call one of our Business Development Managers at your local Lloyd BMW Centre who will be happy to help guide you through the BMW Range making sure you choose the right model that suits you and your requirements.

LLOYD BLACKPOOL 01253 425836 I Based FY4 5PQ

LLOYD COLNE

01282 338475 I Based BB8 9NP

LLOYD SOUTH LAKES 01539 232646 I Based LA11 6QR

Lloyd Motor Group a credit broker. ^Business users only. *Prices exclude VAT at 20%. Prices shown are for a 36-month Contract Hire agreement, with a contract mileage of 8,000 miles annually and an excess mileage charge of 8.51 pence per mile applicable to the BMW 320i M Sport Saloon & 13.23 pence per mile applicable to the BMW X6 xDrive30d M Sport. Applies to new vehicles ordered between 1 July 2018 and registered by 31 December 2018 (subject to availability). At the end of your agreement you must return the vehicle and vehicle condition, excess mileage and other charges may be payable.

Available subject to status to UK residents aged 18 or over. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. The amount of VAT you can reclaim depends on your business VAT status. Terms and conditions apply. Offer may be varied, withdrawn or extended at any time. Hire provided by BMW Group Corporate Finance. BMW Group Corporate Finance is a trading style of Alphabet (GB) Limited, Alphabet House, Summit Avenue, Farnborough, Hampshire GU14 0FB. We commonly introduce customers to BMW Group Corporate Finance. This introduction does not amount to independent financial advice. BMW (UK) Ltd, Summit ONE, Summit Avenue, Farnborough, Hampshire GU14 0FB. Registered in England and Wales 1378137. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for credit broking activities. †Test drives subject to applicant and availability. Images for illustrative purposes only. E&OE.

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Lloyd Colne BMW named number one in the country for customer service LLOYD Colne BMW is celebrating after achieving the top position in terms of customer satisfaction.

The BMW Sales department at the Colne based dealer has been number one for customer service throughout the whole of 2018 above any other BMW dealer in the country based on a customer feedback scoring process.

Customers are invited by BMW UK to review their car buying experience and Lloyd Colne BMW have achieved the highest total score based on customers reviews, personal opinions and a comprehensive scoring system.

Iain Booth, Lloyd Colne BMW Head of Business commented; “Here at Lloyd, we understand the importance of our customers, without happy customers we wouldn’t have a business. The dedicated team are focused on customer satisfaction and that is demonstrated in our customer service scores and repeat custom which we would like to thank all our customers for.”

This isn’t the first accolade with regards to delivering an outstanding customer service experience that Lloyd has been recognised for. Last year, Lloyd was named globally as the best ‘BMW Retailer in Customer Care’ at the prestigious worldwide BMW Excellence in Sales Awards, held in Munich.

Recent customer feedback published

on the Lloyd Colne BMW website read: “Again, Superb experience at Lloyd Colne. They couldn’t have been more helpful and offered an extended handover with the genius to allow me to understand all the functions.”

A reflection of the five-star

customer service that Lloyd is dedicated to providing.

Lloyd Colne is one of Lloyd Motor Group’s six BMW and MINI centres, the other five of which are in Blackpool, Carlisle, Cockermouth, Newcastle and South Lakes. With retailers representing other leading

automotive brands across the North of England and South of Scotland, this family-owned and-run business prides itself on its friendly and professional approach, which has been evident across the organisation since it was founded over four decades ago.

Lloyd BMW offers new X5 LLOYD is pleased to present the new X5 luxury SUV across its Colne, Blackpool and South Lakes BMW Centres.

The latest incarnation of the X5 features the sharp handling characteristics of its predecessors and an updated, contemporary exterior and interior.

Offered with a variety of engines from the xDrive30d, a 3-litre diesel, to the range-topping M50d, a 3.0-litre quad-turbo straight-six, producing around 400bhp and a mighty 560lb ft of torque, making the new X5 a seriously fast SUV, hitting 62mph in 5.2 seconds.

Technology is prominent in the X5, with BMW’s intelligent four-wheel drive system, xDrive, as standard, whilst electronically controlled dampers and air

suspension keep the ride smooth and stable.

A 12.3 inch control display for the innovative iDrive is prominent in the cabin, as is BMW’s latest head-up display, now featuring 3D graphics. A third row of seats is optional, as well as massaging seats, four-zone automatic climate control, cooled and heated armrests, panorama glass roof and ambient lighting.

Stephanie de Looe, BMW Marketing Manager, said: “The new X5 is at the pinnacle of luxury SUVs, offering the best of both worlds; a comfortable, fast cruiser and a capable off-road vehicle. Economical and exciting, I’m sure this latest X5 will be as popular as the previous generations, which sold over 2 million variants worldwide.

“We are now taking enquiries regarding the latest

X5 model across our Colne, Blackpool and South Lakes dealerships, where BMW professionals are on hand to demonstrate the X5’s abilities as well as Lloyd’s latest BMW offers across the stunning model range.”

WYRE WINNERS AWARDS SUPPLEMENT

25

WYRE BUSINESS AWARDS

THE WINNERS Main sponsors

In association with:

WYREDUP

Sponsors Lancaster Agency

26

WYRE WINNERS AWARDS SUPPLEMENT

Garry Payne, Chief Executive of Wyre Council The Wyre Business Awards began as a small awards ceremony to celebrate and support business in Wyre. Now, the business awards are a prestigious event recognised across the borough by businesses and customers alike.

This year, we saw an astounding number of applications which showcased the amazing work that businesses in Wyre are doing.

Unfortunately, not all made it through to the final but each applicant should be proud of their achievements.

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of our finalists for their continued success in business and to our sponsors

IN ASSOCIATION WITH NFU MUTUAL LANCASTER AGENCY

NPL Group and Regenda Group for supporting the Wyre Business Awards to make it another successful year; you should all be very proud.

I’d also like to thank my co-presenter and Wyre native, Sally Naden, for her time on the evening and in helping us to make the awards an eventful and entertaining night.

2019 will be another year of hard work, partnership and growth for Wyre and we can’t wait to see what business in Wyre achieve. See you next year!

IN ASSOCIATION WITH BLACKPOOL & FYLDE CONSTRUCTION HUB

SPONSORED BY LANCASTER UNIVERSITY

CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

HEALTHIEST BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

WINNER CLEMENT DICKENS & SON LTD

WINNER LONE ROOK GARDEN SERVICES & MAINTENANCE

SPONSORED BY HILLHOUSE TECHNOLOGY ENTERPRISE ZONE

Lancaster Agency RURAL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR WINNER – MOY VETS FINALISTS BROOMHEADS ESTATE AGENTS COWLEY CONSTRUCTION & GROUNDWORKS LTD DAISY CLOUGH NURSERIES FARM CREATIVE MYERSCOUGH COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY CENTRE PILLING PET SUPPLIES LTD

EXPORTER OF THE YEAR WINNER SAMSON CONTAINERS

FINALISTS COWLEY CONSTRUCTION & GROUNDWORKS LTD HARPERS STOVES LTD LOGIC SCAFFOLDING

FINALISTS LONE ROOK GARDEN SERVICES & MAINTENANCE THE LITTLE BLUE HEN SOAP CRAFTING COMPANY

IN ASSOCIATION WITH MARKETING LANCASHIRE

SPONSORED BY THE REGENDA GROUP

IN ASSOCIATION WITH FLEETWOOD MARKET

SPONSORED BY WYRE COUNCIL

SERVICE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

INNOVATION BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

WYRE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

SPECIAL RECOGNITION FOR BUSINESS & SERVICE IN WYRE

WINNER FLEETWOOD BEACH KIOSK

WINNER LEVITY CROP SCIENCE

WINNER LOGIC SCAFFOLDING LTD

WINNER THE REGENDA GROUP

FINALISTS DAISY CLOUGH NURSERIES DIAMOND DOG WALKING AND PET SERVICES HARDMAN MCNEAL LONE ROOK GARDEN SERVICES & MAINTENANCE ON-SITE KITCHEN RENTALS SUSTAINABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS LTD THE MORTGAGE FACTORY

FINALISTS BLACKPOOL SKIP HIRE LTD FLEETWOOD BEACH KIOSK JELLYMEDIA PLAY CHEST THE CHEESECAKE EMPORIUM

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

FINALISTS LEVITY CROP SCIENCE

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WYRE WINNERS AWARDS SUPPLEMENT SPONSORED BY BUSINESS LANCASHIRE

SPONSORED BY LINKS SIGNS & GRAPHICS

IN ASSOCIATION WITH POSITIVE FOOTPRINTS

IN ASSOCIATION WITH FLEETWOOD MUSEUM

NEW BUSINESS START-UP OF THE YEAR

SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AWARD

CIVIL SOCIETY AWARD OF THE YEAR

WINNER BUILDERS SUPPLIES (WEST COAST) LTD

WINNER UR POTENTIAL CIC

WINNER – PLAY CHEST FINALISTS CHARLIE JAMES PIE AND MASH DALVI’S FINE INDIAN CUISINE DANCEABLED DIAMOND DOG WALKING AND PET SERVICES DOT ON POTS BUSINESS OWNERS NETWORK LOG CABIN CAFÉ LONE ROOK GARDEN SERVICES & MAINTENANCE

WINNER ON - SITE KITCHEN RENTALS FINALISTS ABBOTTS CHOCOLATES BLACKPOOL SKIP HIRE LTD DIAMOND DOG WALKING AND PET SERVICES JELLYMEDIA LOGIC SCAFFOLDING MOY VETS PLAY CHEST SPA ON THE BRECK THE CHEESECAKE EMPORIUM

FINALISTS BROOMHEADS ESTATE AGENTS BUSINESS OWNERS NETWORK SAMSON CONTAINERS

FINALISTS DANCEABLED FLEETWOOD ROTARY THE GROWING CLUB

IN ASSOCIATION WITH CHAMBER LOW CARBON PROGRAMME

IN ASSOCIATION WITH ADDISON PROJECT PLC

SPONSORED BY HESKETH PRESS

SPONSORED BY LANCASHARE

EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR

DIGITAL, CREATIVE AND MEDIA AWARD

OUTSTANDING WOMAN IN BUSINESS

GREEN BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

WINNER COASTAL CHILD AND ADULT THERAPEUTIC SERVICES LTD

WINNER FARM CREATIVE

WINNER HOOKERS BAITS

WINNER BLACKPOOL SKIP HIRE LTD

FINALISTS JELLYMEDIA LITTLE THINGS TO CHERISH YMCA FYLDE COAST

FINALISTS DANCEABLED DEVONSHIRE BLINDS KUSUZ SILVER JEWELLERY SUNSHINE FOR THE SOUL

FINALISTS SUNSHINE FOR THE SOUL SUSTAINABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS LTD THE LITTLE BLUE HEN SOAP CRAFTING COMPANY

SPONSORED BY NPL GROUP

IN ASSOCIATION WITH BOOST LANCASHIRE

SPONSORED BY WYRED UP

FINALISTS CLEMENT DICKENS AND SON LTD MOY VETS

IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE CENTRE FOR GLOBAL ECO INNOVATION

WYREDUP PROFESSIONAL FIRM OF THE YEAR

MANUFACTURING BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

GROWTH BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

RETAILER OF THE YEAR

WINNER – PHH SOLICITORS

WINNER ON - SITE KITCHEN RENTALS

WINNER LEVITY CROP SCIENCE

WINNER DEVONSHIRE BLINDS

FINALISTS DEVONSHIRE BLINDS SAMSON CONTAINERS THE CHEESECAKE EMPORIUM THE LITTLE BLUE HEN SOAP CRAFTING COMPANY

FINALISTS GLAZEY DAYS LTD HARPERS STOVES LTD HOOKERS BAITS KUSUZ SILVER JEWELLERY PHH SOLICITORS THE MORTGAGE FACTORY

FINALISTS FLEETWOOD BEACH KIOSK KUSUZ SILVER JEWELLERY PILLING PET SUPPLIES LTD SPA ON THE BRECK

FINALISTS THE MORTGAGE FACTORY

28

WYRE WINNERS AWARDS SUPPLEMENT

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE

WINNERS

30 CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

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M&S Deepdale pledges support to Preston homeless charity STAFF members at the Marks & Spencer Deepdale Preston store have selected homelessness charity Emmaus Preston as their upcoming charity of the year.

Each year M&S stores vote for one charity to support through fundraising that’s important to its colleagues, customers and local community.

The M&S Deepdale store has nominated Emmaus Preston, a charity that provides a home, work and personal support to people who have experienced homelessness.

Michael Heath, Store Manager at M&S Deepdale Preston, said: “Some of our staff used their charity days to go and work alongside and coach the Emmaus team on giving great customer

PROUD TO SUPPORT AND PROMOTE:

service. Following on from this the team felt so inspired by the people who work and volunteer for Emmaus, that they decided it would be the charity they wanted to support as a store for the year 2019/2020.

“Over the past few years the store has supported local charities, St Catherine’s Hospice being our current charity. We are all very excited about our partnership with Emmaus and look forward to supporting both financially and in the workplace.”

The M&S charity of the year partnership will involve staff using their paid charity days to help in the local Emmaus stores, fundraising by the staff in store and helping with events and supporting with any training needs from a retail prospective.

Emmaus Preston supports formerly homeless people by providing a home and meaningful work in a community setting. The charity operates three large social enterprises in the city, providing valuable work opportunities whilst generating an income to help sustain the support offered by Emmaus Preston.

Stephen Buchanan, Director of Emmaus Preston, said: “Our Emmaus Preston community is over the moon to have been chose by our local M&S store as their charity of the year. We’re looking forward to the partnership that will hopefully see an exciting programme of fundraising and awareness raising events throughout the year.”

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Local professionals pitch in to raise more than £1,000 for charity A CHARITY five-a-side tournament for professionals in Lancashire raised more than £1,000 for local people living with dementia.

The tournament was organised by Lloyds Bank and teams of accountants, law firms and other advisers took part including Moore & Smalley, Baldwins, Scott & Wilkinson and Begbies Traynor.

The Preston office of insolvency advisers Begbies

Traynor won the tournament and chose to donate the funds raised of £510 to the Alzheimer’s Society.

Lloyds Bank then matched this donation to boost the total to £1,020.

Alzheimer’s Society is the UK’s leading dementia charity. It provides information and support, fund research, campaign to improve care for people affected by dementia.

Sue Swire, community manager at the Alzheimer’s Society, said: “We are extremely grateful to Lloyds, Begbies Traynor and all the other businesses that took part, for their wonderful support. As a charity, we rely on the generosity of others to help us support people to live well with dementia today and fund research to find a cure for tomorrow.”

Preston City Centre businesses commit to making Preston more accessible On ‘Purple Tuesday’, November 13, organisations in Preston city centre confirmed their long-term commitment to making shops and businesses more accessible to users with mobility issues.

St George’s Shopping Centre, Preston BID and Preston Mobility Centre worked with Disability Equality North West to present an accessibility workshop, attended by city centre businesses.

In addition to the Purple Tuesday Workshop, the new ‘Changing Places’ facility in Preston was officially launched at Preston Mobility Centre.

Over 250,000 people need ‘Changing Places’ facilities to enable them to get out and about and enjoy the day-to-day activities many of us take for granted;

the installation of the new city centre unit is a major step forward for the city.

Andrew Stringer, Centre Manager at St George’s, said: “St Georges are proud to working with keys partners including Preston Mobility Centre, Disability Equality NW, BID and the Department for Work and Pensions in championing Purple Tuesday in Preston. As a team we have been focussed on raising awareness to create a more accessible environment for shoppers, our activities on the day included an accessibility awareness workshop plus all our ambassadors, identifiable by their purple t-shirts, were on hand to assist shoppers with their specific needs.”

Joe Hannet, Preston Mobility Centre Manager, said: “This is a

great start. I’m over the moon with the commitment to a more inclusive future from the retail sector in Preston, the leadership shown by St George’s Centre and BID. Kudos also to the retailers who sent staff to today’s awareness event. We’ll learn from today and make sure this embeds in the retail offer for Preston going forward.

Mark Whittle, BID Manager, said: “Today was a great launchpad on which the city can build for the future. We are committed, in the long-term, to working with experts to ensure that visiting Preston, and moving around city centre businesses, is as easy as possible for members of the community with specialist mobility needs.

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CSR

December 2018

Another successful fund raising event for Blackburn Cathedral THE Blackburn Cathedral Trust recently held a very successful dinner, celebrating Lancashire and Lancastrians and raised £15,000 for the Cathedral Appeal.

Taking place at Blackburn Cathedral on 15 November, the event was hosted by the High Sheriff and the Dean of Blackburn Cathedral, with Lord and Lady Shuttleworth (The Lord Lieutenant of Lancashire) in attendance. It is hoped that this will become an annual event.

Welcomed by Clitheroe’s Town Crier and an ensemble from the Lancashire Artillery Band, the reception saw the launch of a new gin, Cathedra, in association with Cockoo Gin from Chorley, followed by a three course dinner, provided by Café Northcote.

After dinner, guests were entertained by keynote speaker, Bill Beaumont, comedian Norman Prince and music from the Choristers of Blackburn Cathedral. There was also a fundraising auction, involving celebrity chefs, Nigel Haworth and Paul Heathcote.

Ann Dean, Chair, Blackburn Cathedral Appeal, said: “We are delighted to have raised £15,000 towards our £950,000 target. I would like to thank everyone involved, especially our supporters for their kind donations.

“Blackburn Cathedral is the only C of E Cathedral in Lancashire and this event helped celebrate our amazing county and the people who live and work here.”

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Lancashire employment specialist raises over £15,000 for local Youth Zone

OVER 200 people from 52 businesses across Lancashire came together at the Dunkenhalgh Hotel & Spa for the third annual Blackburn Youth Zone Quiz Quest.

The Quiz Quest is organised by Blackburn based recruitment and employment specialists Cummins Mellor who are also Patrons of the Youth Zone, a 21st century youth hub located at the heart of Blackburn, aiming to change the prospects offered to young people in the area.

As well as the quiz, the evening saw a performance from members of theYouth Zone, a raffle with over 30 fantastic prizes donated by Lancashire businesses and an auction with luxury items including Afternoon Tea for Two at the House of Lords and signed memorabilia from Novak Djokovic.

After an exciting 10 rounds of questions, the end of the evening saw the title of ‘BYZ Quiz Quest Champions 2018’ go to Napthens Solicitors, who were presented with a trophy and medals made by members of Blackburn Youth Zone.

The £15,170 raised on the night will go towards the Youth Zone’s ‘Get a Job’ programme, facilitated by the team at Blackburn Youth Zone. This programme is aimed at supporting young people aged 16 – 24 years, gain the right skills for employment.

The money raised for the programme from last years’ event has seen 56 young people enter into employment, education or training, a further 37 enrolling onto college courses and over 250 young people aged 14 and over taking part in masterclasses delivered by Blackburn Youth Zone Patrons.

Commenting on the success of the

evening, Cummins Mellor’s Managing Director Michelle Mellor said: “I am quite literally blown away by the success of our latest company fundraising effort. This year saw more support than ever with 58 teams, representing 52 companies across East Lancashire coming together to support Blackburn Youth Zone.

“Bringing people together around a common purpose while creating a playful rivalry is a great example of how you can make a big difference to the people in your community. Raising over £15,000 this year is testament to what we can achieve when we all work together.

“A special mention, once again this year must be made to Ivan Lynch, General Manager at the Dunkenhalgh Hotel and his team for their extremely generous hospitality, together with Barclays bank who have fund matched.”

Blackburn Youth Zone Chairman, Rt Hon Jack Straw who was present on the evening commented: “So many thanks and congratulations to everyone in the Cummins Mellor group of businesses. Your amazing efforts, individual and collective, gave everyone a fantastic, fun evening, and raised over £15,000 for the Blackburn Youth Zone ‘Get a Job’ programme. This is to help those of our members who are stuck, out of work, and out of college, to gain employment – and a better life. It is thanks to you that we will be able to do this.

“Our staff at the Youth Zone do fantastically important work with the 800 plus young people who use the Youth Zone every week. None of that would be possible without the continuing and very generous support of the business community in our area – of which Cummins Mellor is tops.”

CJUK raises over £700 for Hospitality Action BLACKBURN-based national Chef recruitment specialists, CJUK, raised over £700 for Hospitality Action after holding a month-long fundraising initiative throughout October.

The team and their Chefs joined forces for Outrageous October and set themselves a range of challenges to complete, from a half marathon and a 509kms Women’s Grand Cycle Tour in Portugal to running a bake sale and giving up chocolate.

On the final week, they also held a high-energy static cycle challenge at their Blackburn offices and invited local businesses and their Chefs to get involved. Some of the companies who took part included Empine

Print, Starbucks and Media Village.

The gruelling challenge was to cycle the length of the Leeds and Liverpool canal each way (408.7kms) over five working days. The amateur cyclists smashed the target in only four days after they pulled together and gave it their all. The reigning champion was CJUK Chef David who cycled for 90 minutes and covered 48.11kms!

Katie Mellor, CJUK’s Director of Sales and Operations, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have raised this money for Hospitality Action and it was brilliant to see how involved our team and Chefs got to raise money for such an important cause.”

34 APPOINTMENTS

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Viddyoze appoints new VP of worldwide sales LEADING Preaton-based video technology company Viddyoze has appointed a new VP of worldwide sales.

Counting over 35 years’ sales experience, Derek Hallam will be responsible for implementing a new sales strategy and driving and growing sales in line with company objectives.

Prior to joining Viddyoze, Derek was enterprise business development director at GTT Communications, the leading global cloud networking provider to multinational clients. He has also held senior sales positions at IBM. Viddyoze, the web-based, automated video animation platform, is currently used by over 100,000 individuals and businesses worldwide, including major clients such as Sony, Tesla and Vodafone.

The company has ambitious growth plans, aiming to become a £500m

business within the next couple of years, as well as the global leader in automated video content and animation.

Commenting on his appointment, Derek Hallam said: “I’ve always loved working with fast-growing companies that bring innovative solutions to the market so Viddyoze was the ideal fit. I’m looking forward to making a real mark; not only personally, but also by coaching and developing a strong sales team that is instrumental in the growth of the business moving forward.”

David Chamberlain, co-founder at Viddyoze, said: “We’re so pleased to have Derek on board to support our sales strategies and help us on our path to make Viddyoze the number one animation platform globally. We were impressed with Derek’s wealth of experience and consultative, salesled approach and are confident he will be a great asset to our team.”

Armitstead Barnett welcomes Mark Heaton 108,000 vehicles were stolen in the first 3 months of 2018 in the UK only 5% were recovered Our CAT 7 Thatcham trackers have a 91% recovery rate

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ARMITSTEAD Barnett is delighted to welcome Mark Heaton to the firm as Partner working within the Professional Department.

Mark boasts a wealth of over 25 years of experience specialising in residential and commercial property valuation. With expertise across retail, industrial and office sectors, he will further strengthen the Professional Department specialising across these sectors throughout the north west.

Mark said: “I am delighted to be joining Armitstead Barnett. I enjoy the variety of work that can be experienced here, unlike the larger more corporate businesses. I love meeting people and very much look forward to adding value to the business.”

Richard Furnival, Professional Partner, said: “We are delighted to welcome Mark to the firm. His experience and knowledge base will further enhance the services we offer across the entire property sector. We have seen growth throughout the firm and his appointment allows us to further strengthen our service provision to a wider client base across the north west. We are pleased to welcome him onboard.”

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35

APPOINTMENTS

Trio of promotions help drive WHN’s growth programme LANCASHIRE law firm Woodcocks Haworth and Nuttall Solicitors has made three key appointments as part of its ongoing expansion strategy.

Hayley Wharton has qualified as a solicitor, while Louise Thornsby has been awarded a training contract and Andrea Barker promoted to paralegal.

Hayley recently completed the training contract she started in January 2017. She joined WHN Solicitors as a paralegal while completing her legal practice course in 2014.

In order to qualify as a solicitor, Hayley had to undergo a series of exams, as well as gaining experience in WHN’s civil litigation team.

Based at the firm’s Bury office, Hayley’s areas of expertise include residential landlord and tenant disputes, contractual matters, land and

boundary issues and debt recovery. She is also a member of the Law Society.

Louise joined Bury-based WHN in March this year as a paralegal and expects to complete her 18-month training contract and qualify as a solicitor in March 2020.

Louise works mainly in the commercial dispute resolution department, handling contract disputes and debt recovery matters, as well as in the employment and private litigation teams.

Louise completed a Graduate Diploma in Law in 2015 and Legal Practice Course in 2016, both at the University of Law in Manchester.

Previously, she attended Manchester University, where she graduated in English Literature and American Studies.

Meanwhile, Andrea, who is based at the firm’s Haslingden office, has been promoted to paralegal. Andrea originally started working at WHN in 1986 as an office junior and has had several secretarial and administrative roles since.

She is a key member of the firm’s private client team, working alongside Berin Jones, Stephen Parr and Catherine Hamilton on estate administration and probate matters, advising clients on all aspects of the probate process including obtaining grants and dealing with the

distribution of estates.

David McCann, who is a director at WHN Solicitors commented: “The promotions reflect a strong commitment to developing people within the firm in a way that enables them to grow professionally and personally, while enhancing the firm’s reservoir of skills and knowledge.

“I am confident that Hayley, Louise and Andrea will be great successes in their various roles and contribute significantly to the quality and depth of our service offer.”

CG appoints Haymes to top team ONE of Lancashire’s bestknown corporate lawyers is joining award-winning Chorley-based law firm CG. Jane Haymes is making the move to the fastgrowing legal practice from Napthens, where she was a partner.

“Jane is right at the very top of her profession, she’s an established and highlyrespected name and any legal firm would want to have someone of her ability in their team,” said Stacey Turner, who co-founded CG with Louise Myers.

“We’re delighted to welcome her to the team.

Her arrival further bolsters our top team and puts us in a great position to win

more business in the future.

We’ve always aimed to bring a fresh new approach to the legal sector and Jane is the perfect person to help us do this.”

Jane’s arrival further expands CG’s services, which now include Corporate, Commercial, Banking and Finance, Business Recovery, Commercial Property and Employment Law. Jane said: “I was looking for a new challenge and I was attracted by the people at CG and the fresh approach taken by them. It’s a very dynamic, forwardthinking set up and I’m really excited about our future prospects.”

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APPOINTMENTS

December 2018

Former local radio account manager joins Burnley FC BURNLEY born Paul Walsh has been appointed Club Membership Manager for Burnley FC, with responsibility for developing membership of both the Business Hub and the By Official Appointment (BOA) networking club.

Both activities seek to help local businesses benefit from a closer relationship with the club. The Hub offers a very cost effective way of having a flexible office in Burnley and the BOA aims to leverage the buying power of the club’s loyal supporters, enabling BOA businesses to increase their customer base and net sales, as well as bringing together everyone under one common banner.

Paul previously worked at 2BR Radio as an account manager and as a fundraiser for the Make a Wish charity in Lancashire. Hence, he has a host of local contacts which he intends to make aware of the fantastic facilities and opportunities available with Burnley FC. Paul, said: “As a lifelong Burnley FC fan, this is my dream job.

Working here has already exceeded my expectations.

“One of my key objectives is to increase membership of the Business Hub and we have made a great start, having recently signed up Harvey Environmental, Key Fleet and A S Kelman.”

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The Chamber’s ‘Women Mean Business’ lunch is back this December, at the impressive Imperial Banqueting Suite in Preston. Guests are invited to join us for this inspiring event featuring a panel of outstanding business women from across the UK. Our confirmed guest speakers are Baroness Jo Valentine and Emma Degg, further speakers to be announced shortly

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38 PROPERTY

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Links Signs and Graphics installs electrifying signage BLACKPOOL-based, Links Sign and Graphics, has installed state-of-the-art LED signage for Go Electrical’s new Lancashire store as well as fitting out the firm’s Cumbria store.

Following an initial consultation and site visit, the signage experts installed one of the largest fascia signs they have ever produced at Go Electrical’s Preston store, along with window graphics and internal acrylic panels. Links Signs and Graphics further installed stateof-the-art LED illuminated, powder coated signage to the Preston store.

The signage required fabricating and then powder coating to a specific colour, in order to meet Go Electrical’s brand guidelines. The firm was also asked to create and install signage at Go Electrical’s Windermere store, supplying new signage for both the inside and outside of the store.

Founded in 1978, Go Electrical has built a solid reputation as a respected and reliable electrical wholesale distributor to a large network of industry trade and retail customers.

Carl Bennett, Director, Links Sign and Graphics said: “We’re proud of the finished product at both the Preston and Windemere Go Electrical sites, with the Preston store displaying one of the largest fascia signs we have ever produced. The LED signage at the Preston site is bold and impactful from street level, drawing the eye to the store.

“Following a site visit, we supplied a quote and within three days got the go ahead to begin work. Following a few conversations, it was agreed that the fascia sign at the Preston store could be even bigger than initially anticipated, and once artwork was agreed, it was all systems go for our production team.

Adam Taylor, Branch Manager, Go Electrical, added: “I am delighted with the work carried out by Links Sign and Graphics. It was a fast turnaround from the first site visit to installation and the work carried out matched our brief entirely, with the LED signage being particularly impressive, exceeding expectations.”

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Property

39

Celebrations to mark 90 years for Petty’s LOCAL Estate Agents Petty’s are celebrating their 90th anniversary this year and have been marking the occasion with various events throughout the year.

As part of their 90th year celebrations Petty’s stated that all residential properties listed between 1st April 2018 and the 30th September 2018 would be entered into two quarterly draws where the successful winners would pay a sale commission of only £90.00. The first draw took place in July and Sara and

Michael Alexander from Barnoldswick were the lucky winners.

The winner this time is would be property developer Chris Hargreaves from Rossendale. Chris bought a house in Burnley and totally refurbished it in order to then sell the property.

Paramedic Chris, said: “It’s taken almost 11 months of late nights and weekends to refurbish the property.

I’ve done all the work with a colleague and with the help of family and friends in order to

try and keep costs down.

Winning this is a real boost and I’m already thinking that the money I’ve saved with this win I may just re-invest and buy another property!”

Simon Morgan a Director at Petty’s, said: “Petty’s success is built on the relationships we’ve had and continue to have with our client’s, those relationships have built us up and defined us. We are tremendously grateful to our clients, it is because of their steadfast loyalty and trust that we are still here. This is a bit of

fun really but we felt it important to give a little back and it’s great that

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this may have just given Chris the boost to buy another property and

start the process all over again”

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Top accolade for The Bee Hive THE Bee Hive, based in Burnley, has been named runner-up in the North West by the British Property Awards 2018.

The accolade puts The Bee Hive among the country’s top estate agents and follows the family firm taking ‘gold’ as Burnley’s top estate agent.

“It’s a great double for us and further evidence that we are moving in the direct direction,” said Luke Robinson, business development director. “To be officially recognised by something as prestigious as the British Property Awards is very pleasing, especially twice in the same year!”

The Robinson family, well known

through the region as property developers, took over at The Bee Hive just three years ago.

“Our strategy is to put quality over quantity,” added Luke. “We have a strong skill set within the team and while don’t claim to be the cheapest estate agency in the region, we do believe we offer the very best in service to all clients.”

David Gregory, director of the British Property Awards, said: “The Bee Hive continues to perform at a really high level and to take two awards in 2018 is testimony to the agency’s progress and standing.”

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Property

December 2018

Jones Melling opens office in Preston

A GROWING property and construction advisory firm has opened a new office in Preston after a period of strong growth.

The firm was previously based in Warrington but has opened an office in Guildhall Street, Preston, and a second new office in Chester to better service its growing client base in the North West and nationally.

The firm also has an office in London.

Jones Melling, which has 15 staff, recently received a six-figure growth funding boost from the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund (NPIF) to support its expansion.

The firm, co-founded in 2009 by chartered surveyors Ken Jones and Gary Melling, has also unveiled a new brand identity and website to better reflect its service offering and sector expertise.

Gary Melling, director, said:

“It’s almost 10 years since Ken and I started the business and we’ve grown significantly in that time.

We’ve built a great team and we’re working nationally with some major businesses, so felt it was the right time to invest in the next phase of our growth.

“Having two north west offices and our London hub gives us to access to a larger talent pool and added flexibility to support our clients across the UK.” Ken Jones, director, added: “Gary and I remain as ambitious as the day we started the business. As well as investing in our offices and staff, we’ve focused on better defining our services, culture and values.

“Our new brand identity reflects our role as genuine property experts and reinforces our commitment to offer clients, staff and partners quality in everything we do.”

ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY

Contact Editor@BusinessLancashire.co.uk

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Organisations across Lancashire are turning to a greener and more sustainable way of operating, lowering their carbon footprint and decreasing costly bills. In this special feature, we hear from the leading energy figures in Lancashire about how to lead a greener and more sustainable organisation, reducing consumption and costs.

41

42 ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY

Dec 2018

Lancashire Energy HQ is the flagship development on the flourishing Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone – and offers something for everyone THE day we visit Lancashire Energy HQ on Squires Gate Lane in Blackpool’s South Shore, it is a crisp and clear autumnal day. A rhythmic thrumming from the other side of the fence announces the arrival of a helicopter returning from an Irish Sea gas rig to Babcock’s Blackpool Airport terminal. As the rig workers disembark, it is a timely reminder of the many employment opportunities available in Lancashire’s growing energy sector.

The surroundings at Lancashire Energy HQ are an immediate give away that this is an educational facility with a difference. To begin with, as the flagship development on the flourishing Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone, it comes with an adjacent airfield and hotel. These have both already been used by major energy companies flying staff into the resort from Aberdeen for professional development programmes at the facility.

Moving inside the £10.7m facility, the heavy industry focus continues. Spotless workrooms are filled with state-of-the-art equipment designed to reflect the facilities students will find when working in the sector.

Candice Downie, Operations Manager at Lancashire Energy HQ, says: “We offer a wide range of programmes for students, as well as commercial courses and apprenticeships for the energy workforce.

“While we deliver various traditional further and higher education programmes, Lancashire Energy HQ is a cutting-edge commercial training facility and it is fantastic that we are receiving a great deal of interest from industry in using it for that purpose.

“With energy demand set to grow by 35% by 2035 and a shortage of skilled professionals, there is no better time to pursue a career in the energy sector.

“One of our key priorities is in renewable energy skills. Renewables are growing in importance within Britain’s energy mix and, while many of the engineering skills required are transferable from those used in fossil fuel industries, we want Lancashire Energy HQ to be at the forefront of providing a skilled workforce for renewable projects.”

Lancashire Energy HQ also works with some of the nuclear industry’s biggest companies, delivering degree apprenticeships which allow students to obtain a higher education qualification while working in rewarding roles in the sector.

One of the nuclear degree apprentices we speak to during our visit tells us how important it is that the training centre mirrors the contemporary facilities they work in every day.

She added: “It’s not like being at college. We study one day a week at Lancashire Energy HQ and it feels like going into a really modern workplace.

“The only difference is the technology and equipment here is used for training rather than commercial engineering and manufacturing purposes.”

For more information about the learning opportunities on offer at Lancashire Energy HQ, contact 01253 504343 or email energy@blackpool.ac.uk.

For commercial or workforce development opportunities, please contact B&FC for Business on 01253 504343 or at business@blackpool.ac.uk.

Programmes available at Lancashire Energy HQ include: • Energy Engineering - BEng Hons Degree (launching September 2019) • Materials Science Degree Apprenticeship (launching September 2019) • Nuclear Degree Apprenticeship • Renewable Energy Awareness Course • Nuclear Simulation – One-day awareness • Nuclear Simulation – Two-day awareness • Maintenance and Operations Engineering Technician (MOET) Apprenticeship Standard Level 3 • Abrasive Wheels • Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) Course Welding programmes on offer at Lancashire Energy HQ include: • Welding and Fabrication Practice - Level 3 • Welding Practice - Level 2 • BESCA Oxy/Acetylene or MMA Welding Competency • Welding TIG Masterclass • Welding Training Course - 1 Day • Welding Training Course - 2 Day • Welding BS4872 Part 1 or Part 2 1982 Test - 1 Day • Welder Assessment Day • TWI Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Appreciation of Basic Techniques • TWI CSWIP (3.0) Visual Welding Inspection • TWI CSWIP (3.1) Welding Inspector • TWI CSWIP (3.2) Senior Welding Inspector Facilities at Lancashire Energy HQ include: • Sector’s largest renewable and nuclear plant simulator in England • Metals engineering laboratory • Purpose-built welding facility • Resource centre equipped with Auto CAD software • Three large engineering and renewable technologies workshops Lancashire Energy HQ also works with global bolt tensioning specialists Atlas Copco to offer reaccreditation sessions for those working in the energy sector.

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44 ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY

Dec 2018

Non-Commodity Cost Increases Explained BUSINESSES face a number of competing pressures when it comes to both forecasting and managing energy budgets. The importance of correctly buying your electricity and gas remains vital to achieving budget security. However, this is only part of the challenge now facing businesses when it comes to effective energy cost management.

Nick Campbell, Director, Energy Intensive Clients, explained: “The non-commodity elements of a customer’s electricity spend have been increasing rapidly over the last few years – particularly on Half-Hourly (HH) electricity invoices. Non-commodity charges are forecast to increase by at least 60% by 2020 making the challenge of buying the commodity element of your energy only part of the challenge of successful energy management. We are working with our clients now to both buy the commodity element and mitigate the impact of non-commodity elements through a range of solutions including self-generation and changes to the infrastructure of a client’s site operations”.

As the charts below show, where the commodity cost makes up around 75%-80% of a commercial gas spend, it now only accounts for around 45% of an overall net invoice for electricity:

From 1 April 2018, two specific measures were introduced by OFGEM which, if unchecked, will increase the amount businesses pay for electricity, specifically through a HH meter. These are called DCP161 and DCP228. Jamie Tabord runs the Optimisation Team at Inspired Energy which helps businesses in dealing with non-commodity charging.

Jamie Tabord, commented: “DCP 161 ensures any HH supplies that exceed their assigned available capacity pay significantly more. The penalty charge for exceeding your available capacity will increase on average by an estimated 81%.

This charge will vary significantly from region to region.

We have successfully negotiated new capacity arrangements for our clients to increase or decrease their capacity to avoid any excess charges.”

The aim of DCP 228 is to revise how electricity distribution charges are calculated, so they accurately reflect the costs incurred by network operators during peak and non-peak period. Since 2010, the Distribution Network Operators (DNOs), which in Lancashire is Electricity Northwest, have recovered costs through a triple-tiered, Red-Amber-Green, time-based structure heavily weighted towards the early evening red period.

This ensured consistency and incentivised consumers who could flexible manage their demand. However, the methodology generally overstated the peak ‘red’ rates as it included revenues not related to peak conditions. This causes the incentive to manage demand to be higher than it should be, making it unsustainable in the long run.

Jamie Tabord explained: “DCP228 focuses more on the time of energy use by businesses as the way in which electricity distribution charges are calculated has changed. Distribution charges currently account for up to 19% of your bill, so the increase could be significant. We are advising our clients on ways in which they may look to re-examine the times at which they use energy and to look at adopting smart technology such as energy storage to create a more diverse generation mix and lessen the reliance on grid delivered power.”

To get expert advice on business energy, please visit inspiredenergy.co.uk or call 01772 689 250.

ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY

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45

Early shale gas flow an encouraging sign for UK energy mix THE early flow of natural gas to surface from Cuadrilla’s shale exploration well at Preston New Road is an encouraging sign that the Bowland Shale can provide a significant source of natural gas to heat Lancashire and UK homes and offices and reduce the country’s ever-growing reliance on expensive foreign imports.

According to the company’s CEO, Francis Egan, while the volumes of gas returning to surface at this stage are small it is a “good early indication of the gas potential that we have long talked about”.

The Lancashire-based firm argues that by replacing liquefied

natural gas imports, and continuing to decrease reliance on coal, with natural gas produced from onshore shale it can help to reduce the UK’s carbon footprint and provide a cost-effective source of energy for our homes, businesses and industry.

Most expert predictions, including National Grid’s ‘Future Energy Scenarios’ report, suggest that Britain will still be using a lot of gas even as far out as 2050. In November, the International Energy Agency’s World Energy Outlook also stated that “oil and natural gas will be part of the energy system for decades to come – even under ambitious efforts to reduce

greenhouse gas emissions in line with the Paris Agreement”.

Francis Egan, CEO of Cuadrilla, reflected that while energy demands rise natural gas from shale can provide a flexible and sustainable part of the UK’s energy mix.

“There is no doubt that renewables have a place to play in our future energy landscape, but gas also has a key role to play in the decades to come,” he said. “It is often seen as an ‘either or’ option, but actually we need to find a sensible pathway where both are recognised.

“Natural gas is one of the key pillars of the UK’s energy mix,

however we import over 50% of our gas from overseas. By producing it onshore in the UK we can reduce our reliance on imports, cut the lifecycle emissions associated with imports and help secure the future energy needs of the country.”

Egan added that over 80% of UK homes are currently heated by gas and more than 60% of homes rely on gas for cooking.

He said: “I’m delighted that as our exploration efforts progress we’re one step closer to flowing Lancashire shale gas into homes in the county, and look forward to making this a reality in the near future.”

ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY

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The Chamber Low Carbon programme THE Chamber Low Carbon programme is working with many businesses right across Lancashire to reduce carbon emissions, improve environmental performance and save money. The East Lancashire and North & Western Lancashire Chambers of Commerce have partnered to deliver this free support across the county.

Guidance is provided by a range of experts in energy efficiency, renewable energy generation, environmental management systems and help with financing low carbon technology adaptation. Chamber Low Carbon also runs a range of events to provide best practice advice including a series of regular Lunch & Learn workshops that

have recently been launched. These events have involved some fantastic organisations such as the Environment Agency and Electricity North West, with plans for much more in 2019.

To help businesses move toward a more sustainable future, Chamber Low Carbon will soon be introducing the Green Rose Programme. This sixmonth programme will provide support and guidance in the development and implementation of each organisation’s Environmental Management System, preparing them for accreditations such as ISO14001.

This will be free as part of the programme for all eligible SMEs. In addition to working with businesses go green Chamber Low

Carbon works with several Lancashire companies who are developing new low carbon initiatives, all with the potential to improve energy efficiency or reduce emissions in other ways. It is exciting that there is so much innovation evident within the county.

All of this is provided as a partnership between the two Chambers, Boost and Businesswise

Solutions and is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund.

If you want to make your business green, are developing a low carbon innovation or already supply low carbon products or services contact the team by visiting www. chamberlowcarbon.co.uk/contact