Uriah Rennie, the first black referee to oversee Premier League games and active community advocate, has been officially installed as the new Chancellor of Sheffield Hallam University. Proud Sheffielder Uriah, best known as Uri, was formally installed as Chancellor at a ceremony held at the University and attended by university staff and students, alumni and civic representatives from across the region many of whom Uri will be working with in the future. Uri, who was raised in a working-class neighbourhood in the east end of Sheffield, became an international FIFA and FA football referee who officiated more than 300 games during his career. During his career he began campaigning on a range of issues including improving equity, equality and inclusion in sport, supporting mental health and tackling deprivation within communities, something he actively continues to do. Uri intends to use his time as Chancellor to further those causes. Uri has a long affiliation with Sheffield Hallam, having successfully studied for an MBA at the University during his refereeing career. And in 2023 he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in recognition of his distinguished contributions to sport and his work with resilient communities across South Yorkshire. Uri Rennie said: “I’m immensely proud to become Chancellor at Sheffield Hallam University, and I’m looking forward to working with students, the wider university community and the Vice-Chancellor to make a real difference." “I intend to immerse myself in university life as Chancellor, making myself approachable, visible and accessible during my time in this key role as an ambassador for Sheffield Hallam and the wider region." “I would like to work to inspire and encourage young people from the types of communities I was raised in to take advantage of the new opportunities and resources the university offers.” Professor Liz Mossop, Vice-Chancellor at Sheffield Hallam University, said: “Uri is a true Sheffield trailblazer, who broke down barriers to inclusion in sport. He is a man of great integrity with a reputation for boldness and fairness and a fierce commitment to equity and inclusion for all. Throughout his life he has advocated for resilient communities and being a passionate ambassador for Sheffield." “His reputation and impact are widely recognised, and his contribution to the University, our city and region will be a huge inspiration for all our students." “His values and focus on social justice align completely with those of Sheffield Hallam and we are proud and privileged to welcome him formally as our new Chancellor.” The Chancellor performs a ceremonial role and acts as a key ambassador for the University. Uri takes on the Chancellorship from Baroness Helena Kennedy LT KC after six years of service. Baroness Kennedy is patron of Sheffield Hallam’s world-leading Helena Kennedy Centre for International Justice, and she will continue to work closely with colleagues in the Centre to champion the work of staff and students.

More UK entrepreneurs are considering selling their business following tax changes, according to a recent survey of 4,000 UK adults commissioned by Brown Shipley, the UK wealth manager and subsidiary of Quintet Private Bank.   Almost two fifths of UK entrepreneurs (38%) say they plan to explore selling their business earlier than planned due to tax changes announced in the October 2024 Budget, according to the latest research. Meanwhile, just over two in five (44%) UK entrepreneurs say that the increase in National Insurance will impact their plans for business growth.   These tax changes combined with challenging market conditions are likely informing sentiment among business owners. Over a third (36%) of respondents say they intend to sell their business in its entirety to crystalise value and manage wealth, compared to 21% in January 2024.   Financial risk remains top of mind, and an increased number of business owners intend to seek external investment in their companies over the next 12-36 months to diversify their financial risk, with those figures increasing significantly since the October Budget (December 2024: 40% vs January 2024: 25%). Slightly fewer (37%) intend to seek external investment over the same period as part of their company’s strategic growth plans.   Despite UK inheritance tax changes for businesses, a third of entrepreneurs say they plan to reduce their equity in the business but keep it within the family as part of their generational wealth planning. Younger entrepreneurs are more interested in this than are older entrepreneurs (18-34: 49% vs 55+: 10%). Meanwhile, over one third of entrepreneurs (36%) have plans to reduce their ownership through internal succession to employees; similarly, this decreases with age (18-34: 53% vs 55+: 9%).   Entrepreneurs are focused on managing wealth, and confidence in financial planning increased in the last year. 54% of survey respondents reported confidence in the planning they have undertaken, with confidence higher among young entrepreneurs at 68%. That is up from 47% recorded in January 2024. Simon Smith, Head of Private Banking, South at Brown Shipley said: “The survey findings are reflective of conversations we are having with entrepreneurs. Confidence in the UK market is currently more challenging than it has been, and entrepreneurs are carefully assessing their options.    In addition to business sentiment, entrepreneurs are considering what inheritance tax changes will mean for the legacy of their business. This reflects the fact that preserving wealth for future generations and succession planning are often key considerations for entrepreneurs when they are looking to sell or pass on their businesses.”

Leading professional services firm AAB has expanded its senior team in London, underlining its strategic commitment to growth and enhanced client support in the capital. AAB, a top-25 UK firm that has trebled in size since 2021, has appointed Jai Raja as Audit Partner, James Snape as Audit Director, and Greg Smythe as Tax Director to bolster its audit and tax capabilities to meet growing demand. These appointments represent a strategic shift toward deeper local investment in London, building on three consecutive years of 30% combined annual audit and tax growth. AAB is focused on expanding its London presence to support existing clients and capture new market opportunities. Jai Raja brings over 20 years of experience in audit, including senior roles within Big 4 and top 10 firms, with a focus on large infrastructure corporates and developing high-performing teams. James Snape adds more than a decade of financial leadership across practice and industry, including a CFO role, and has expertise in real estate and construction clients. Greg Smythe, appointed as Tax Director, brings significant expertise in international and corporation tax, advising both global and UK-based clients on complex restructuring and refinancing matters. With over 100 team members and all core business units now represented in the London office, AAB is well positioned to deliver integrated audit, tax, and advisory services to complex, high-growth businesses. This senior-level expansion also develops further opportunities for collaboration between audit and tax teams. This joined-up approach positions the firm to provide comprehensive solutions for businesses operating in increasingly regulated and fast-changing environments both in the UK and internationally. John Beevers, Head of Professional Services at AAB, commented: “Our senior team in London continues to grow in strength and depth. The appointments of Jai, James and Greg to our senior team reflect our commitment to investing in both audit and tax and allow us to offer more comprehensive support to clients across key sectors." “We’re seeing a consistent trend, particularly among large domestic and international corporates, of clients seeking service providers who can deliver both audit and tax under one roof. With our expanding team and collaborative model, we’re exceptionally well placed to meet that need and continue our growth journey in the capital.” The announcement is also timely given the significant changes across both the audit and tax landscapes. Evolving regulatory frameworks, updates to accounting standards such as FRS 102, and the growing importance of technology and AI are reshaping how services are delivered. In tax, increased scrutiny from HMRC, shifting international tax rules, and greater complexity in areas such as transfer pricing, customs and restructuring are creating new challenges for businesses. AAB remains committed to investing in these areas, from regulatory readiness to digital innovation, to stay ahead of industry transformation and ensure clients receive proactive, tech-driven support. Emma Lancaster, CEO of AAB, added: “Our continued investment in London is a vital part of our wider growth journey. While we’ve supported clients here for years, this is the next chapter in building our local presence. By expanding our senior team and deepening our community engagement, we’re making sure we can support existing clients more effectively and open the door to new opportunities.” This announcement follows AAB Wealth’s recent acquisition of Magus Wealth, a deal which boosted their Assets Under Advice (AuA) to £1.8billion, reinforcing AAB’s strategic investment in London, across all business units. Since securing investment from August Equity in 2021, AAB has trebled in size and now employs more than 1,000 people. The rapid growth journey is set to continue as part of delivering its ambitious growth strategy for 2030. Above Photo: Caption (l-r):  Emma Lancaster, John Beevers, James Snape, Greg Smythe, Jai Raja and Jim Pirrie

Once seen as the backup plan for cancelled flights or a modest alternative to jet-setting abroad, the humble staycation is having something of a renaissance. From the windswept cliffs of Cornwall to the quiet beauty of the Lake District, Britons are falling back in love with their own patch of earth — and doing so in greater numbers than ever before. It’s not hard to see why. After the disruption of recent years, many travellers have come to value ease, flexibility and a sense of familiarity. No airports, no passport panic, no unexpected exchange rates. Just the simple pleasure of packing up the car, loading the dog into the back seat, and hitting the road. The journey might be shorter, but the experience can be every bit as rewarding. Coastal retreats, country cottages, and converted barns are being booked up months in advance, while luxury glamping sites and eco-lodges now offer a kind of rural sophistication that rivals their European counterparts. British hospitality, once unfairly maligned, has stepped up its game — with farm-to-table dining, stylish boutique hotels, and thoughtfully curated local experiences becoming the new norm. But it’s not just about comfort and convenience. There’s a deeper, more personal reason why staycations have captured the national mood. In a world that often feels fast-moving and uncertain, staying close to home allows us to slow down and reconnect — with nature, with history, and with each other. Whether it’s hiking along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, stargazing in the Yorkshire Dales, or sipping cider in a Somerset orchard, there’s something grounding about being reminded of the beauty we too often overlook. And let's not forget the environmental angle. For the eco-conscious traveller, staying local drastically cuts down on carbon emissions, offering a way to holiday more sustainably without sacrificing enjoyment. Many are choosing trains over planes, bikes over cars, and finding joy in the journey as much as the destination. Of course, it’s not without its quirks. British weather remains as unpredictable as ever, and anyone who’s spent a soggy August under canvas will know that no amount of enthusiasm can entirely compensate for a leaky tent. But even that, for some, is part of the charm — a badge of honour earned in wellies and waterproofs. The staycation may have started as a necessity, but it’s blossomed into a lifestyle. In rediscovering our own backyard, we’re learning that we don’t always need to travel far to find wonder. Sometimes, the best adventures are closer than we think.

British Airways is celebrating its ongoing partnership with England Rugby by launching a new sports fund, the British Airways Spaces for All Fund, dedicated to supporting grassroots rugby clubs over the next three years. As the Official Airline Partner for the England Rugby teams, the flag carrier champions the growth of the sport from the ground up, with a particular focus on increasing uptake amongst women and girls. This is the airline’s first investment in sport and rugby at a grassroots level. A joint initiative with England Rugby, the British Airways Spaces For All Fund will help local rugby clubs improve their social, event and outdoor facilities to welcome more people into rugby and create a welcoming environment that is more accessible and inclusive for women and girls. The number of registered female players has increased by 38% since the 2021/22 season, with England Rugby aiming to have 100,000 women and girls playing by 2027. More than 30 clubs will benefit from the airline’s investment over the next three years, with Plymouth Albion RFC and Plymstock Oaks being the first two clubs to have been selected. Plymouth Albion RFC is set to renovate one of its social spaces to create a more welcoming environment for club events, player meals and off-pitch sessions. Plymstock Oaks will transform a space adjacent to the main pitch by upgrading existing facilities to improve access for players, families and visitors. Calum Laming, British Airways’ Chief Customer Officer, said: “We’re proud of our long-standing partnership with England Rugby over the past seven years, and the launch of our new sports fund marks an exciting new chapter." “We know rugby is more than just a game, it’s a sport with deep British roots that brings people together through community, spirit and tradition. Through the British Airways Spaces For All Fund, we’re proud to support local clubs at the heart of communities and drive positive change for players, volunteers and fans alike. As a British Original, we’re passionate about championing uniqueness and originality in all forms and look forward to what’s in store this year.” Alex Teasdale, Executive Director of Women's Game at England Rugby, said: “We're delighted to partner with British Airways, who understand the things that really matter to our sport. The creation and launch of the British Airways Spaces for All Fund is something that will help community rugby clubs to keep moving the dial and offer enhanced experiences to all of their members. If anyone knows how to offer a warm and welcoming experience, it’s British Airways, and so we’re really looking forward to working with them and our clubs to make sure women and girls get the best possible experience.” The announcement of the new fund comes just ahead of a busy summer of sport, with some of the biggest names in women’s sports taking to the global stage across rugby, tennis, cricket and football. British Airways continues to fly the England Men’s and Red Roses teams around the world and supports them both on and off the pitch, as the Official Airline Partner.

The Office for Students (OfS) reveals that financial pressures continue to mount across UK universities, with more than 40% now operating in deficit. The new report, which examines the sector’s fiscal outlook for 2024–25, outlines serious challenges that threaten the long-term viability of institutions. The National Centre for Universities and Business (NCUB) has previously raised concerns about the risks now confirmed in the OfS report. NCUB is calling for urgent action to develop a sustainable funding solution to protect the future of the sector. Dr Joe Marshall, Chief Executive of NCUB, commented: “Universities play a pivotal role in driving economic growth by connecting new knowledge and ideas with businesses that can turn them into new products and services. They ensure graduates are equipped with the skills to power innovation needed to drive economic growth. These outcomes require deliberate investment in time, relationships and infrastructure – they don’t happen by accident.” Recent NCUB analysis of university-business collaboration data shows a significant drop in the value of interactions, particularly with SMEs. Faced with mounting financial pressures, universities may be forced to reduce collaboration activities such as consultancy and contract research – precisely the types of partnerships that underpin the UK’s ambitions as a global innovation leader. Dr Marshall added: “Forcing universities into short-term cost-cutting measures, as highlighted by the OfS, without regard for their broader economic contribution, risks irreparably damaging their ability to support national growth. This would be a grave mistake for any government committed to economic progress.”

Tucked away in shaded glens and woodland edges, the delicate  Lily of the Valley  ( Convallaria majalis ) emerges each spring with an almost ethereal charm. Its graceful arching stems bear dainty, bell-shaped white blooms that release a fragrance so sweet it has inspired perfumers and poets for centuries. Though modest in stature, this flower holds a storied place in history, culture, and the natural world. A Botanical Gem Despite its name,  Lily of the Valley  is not a true lily. Native to Europe and parts of Asia, this perennial herbaceous plant is part of the Asparagaceae family. It thrives in cool, shaded areas and is often found carpeting forest floors like a living snowfall. Each plant sends up a slender stalk adorned with small, nodding bells that bloom in late April or May, filling the air with a heady, intoxicating scent. The plant spreads via underground rhizomes, forming dense colonies over time. Its lush green leaves and pure white flowers make it a favourite in traditional cottage gardens and shaded borders. But gardeners take note: while stunning,  Lily of the Valley  can be invasive if not carefully managed. Symbolism and Superstition The  Lily of the Valley  has long been a symbol of purity, humility, and happiness. In the language of flowers— floriography —it represents the return of happiness, making it a popular choice in wedding bouquets. Perhaps most famously, it adorned the bridal bouquet of Catherine, Princess of Wales, connecting the flower to love, grace, and royal tradition. Christian folklore holds that the flower sprang from the tears of the Virgin Mary at the foot of the cross, earning it the poetic name “Our Lady’s Tears.” In other legends, the flower was said to protect gardens from evil spirits, adding a layer of superstition to its history. A May Day Tradition In France,  Lily of the Valley  ( muguet ) is intricately tied to May Day celebrations. On the 1st of May, it is customary to give a sprig of the flower to loved ones as a token of good luck and happiness. The tradition dates back to the Renaissance, when King Charles IX received a bunch of the blooms as a gift and decided to offer them each spring to the ladies of the court. To this day, street vendors and florists across France sell the blossoms every May Day, and the sweet scent of  muguet marks the arrival of spring and renewal. Poison and Perfume Beneath its charming exterior lies a darker secret. All parts of the  Lily of the Valley  are highly toxic if ingested, containing cardiac glycosides that can affect the heart. While this renders the plant dangerous to pets and small children, it has also lent the flower medicinal uses in traditional remedies—albeit with great caution. In the world of perfumery, however,  Lily of the Valley  is a star. Due to the difficulty of extracting its fragrance naturally, its scent is often recreated synthetically. Legendary perfumes such as Dior’s  Diorissimo  pay homage to its fresh, green, slightly citrusy aroma. The flower’s olfactory profile remains a benchmark of springtime elegance. A Lasting Legacy Whether clutched in a bride’s bouquet, nestled in a woodland nook, or symbolising a new season’s beginning,  Lily of the Valley  continues to captivate. It is a flower of contradiction—fragile yet resilient, innocent yet potent, elusive yet unforgettable. In a world that often rushes past subtle beauty,  Lily of the Valley  invites us to pause, breathe in its fleeting fragrance, and find joy in the quiet poetry of spring.

A North Lancashire hotel has partnered with a local arts and crafts gift shop to help showcase its works to guests and visitors to the area. Lancaster House Hotel has joined forces with The Little Shop of Handmade Loveliness, an independent business which supports local creative makers by stocking and promoting their handmade arts, crafts, literature and designs. The hotel has adapted its reception area to display a range of the gift shop’s popular lines of products. The two Lancaster businesses are also planning to hold craft experience days at the hotel as part of this new collaboration, with proposed activities including glass and candle making. General manager of Lancaster House Hotel Emma Underwood says: “The Little Shop of Handmade Loveliness is a wonderful gift shop in the heart of Lancaster which is supporting over 20 other local small businesses and creative makers." “Our idea was to work with a local retail business and act as a shop window for visitors to Lancaster. We have a wide diversity of guests from all over the world and we want to promote some of the best locally made products the county has to offer." “It’s an initiative that ties into our commitment to support our local community, as well as giving our guests something different with a bit of local culture, history and heritage. The shop features a wide array of hand-made gifts lovingly designed and made by local people - with something there for everyone.” The Little Shop of Handmade Loveliness is situated on James Lane in Marketgate in Lancaster. Owner Jan Beal adds: “We’ve been blown away by the support from the team at Lancaster House Hotel. Their offer to give us a remote shop window with a significant footfall of visitors to the area is a huge help." “We’re already getting guests from the hotel coming into town to see us for our locally themed gifts. It feels like The Little Shop of Handmade Loveliness has gone on tour and we couldn’t be more grateful to be showcased in such lovely surroundings at the hotel.”

Property finance specialist MSP Capital has agreed a landmark funding facility of £350 million funding involving two investment partners, J.P. Morgan and Pollen Street Capital. Designed to bolster the firm’s continued growth in the development and bridging finance markets, this facility will enable MSP Capital to provide flexible and diverse funding solutions to developers with ambitions to build homes. The new lines are made up of a senior-secured facility from J.P. Morgan of £200 million, coupled with an additional £150 million facility from existing funder Pollen Street Capital. This, alongside the firm’s retained funding lines, with Pollen Street Capital and Shawbrook Bank, provides MSP Capital an increased total funding capacity of £485 million. J.P. Morgan has the potential to provide an additional £350 million of funding in the future, meaning MSP Capital could expand its funding capacity to £835 million. The deals are the latest of several strategic moves MSP Capital has made in the past year to ready itself for more growth. They include appointing Leigh Bartlett as the company’s first Chief Executive Officer and relaunching a five-year business strategy. Leigh said: “These deals mark an important milestone for us and will be the driving force behind an exciting growth journey for the company, our broker partners and our customers." “Securing these new funding lines from such reputable funders is a testament to the strength of our business and reputation among senior funders in the market, as well as our robust customer base and loan book pipeline." “These new funding lines will further enhance our position as a respected lender, allowing us to lend more across the country.” The transaction was supported by Interpath, acting as sole financial adviser to MSP Capital, with Travers Smith LLP serving as the firm’s legal counsel. Nicky Hollamby, Finance Director at MSP Capital, added: “This successful outcome is the result of six months of hard work by the team. The £350 million currently made available through these new funding lines, as well as the potential for more funds in the future, is an integral piece of the jigsaw for the future growth of MSP. Thank you to our funding partners, J.P. Morgan and Pollen Street, for their support and for demonstrating such a strong understanding of our business." “A special thanks also goes to the teams at Interpath and Travers Smith LLP for their expertise and guidance throughout this process. The hard work of the entire team has been crucial in preparing the business for this growth, and we are proud of what we have achieved together.” Nick Parkhouse, Managing Director and Head of Financial Services Transactions at Interpath, said: “I first met and worked with MSP Capital over eight years ago and have had the pleasure to advise them during many key parts of their journey. This transaction is memorable for so many reasons - one of which was the exceptional market interest towards this deal which encapsulates how far the UK bridging and development market has come. The other was working alongside the great teams at MSP Capital, J.P. Morgan and Pollen Street to create an innovative funding structure which sets the business up for exceptional growth.” J.P. Morgan is a global financial services firm, offering a range of investment banking, asset management, private banking and treasury services. Rob Tanna-Smith, Managing Director at J.P. Morgan, said: “As the UK grapples with providing houses for a growing population, further development relies on the availability of additional financing sources. This transaction supports MSP in its pursuit of growing the developmental and bridging finance markets and encouraging additional homebuilding. At J.P. Morgan, our scale, specialism and broad capabilities enable us to support initiatives like these, and providing MSP with this new funding line will underpin MSP’s existing portfolio of bridging and development loans, as well as the growth in their loan book over the next five years.” London-based Pollen Street Capital is a fast-growing alternative investment asset manager, investing in asset-backed credit and private equity strategies. Connor Marshall-McKie, Investment Director at Pollen Street Capital, said: “We are delighted to extend our partnership with MSP Capital. The team has a fantastic track record, with over 40 years’ experience in property finance and deep knowledge of their local markets, representing a great fit for our asset backed credit strategy." “Pollen Street's deep experience in supporting bridging and development lenders has enabled us to create meaningful impact across the UK and European development landscape. Through this enhanced collaboration with MSP Capital, we're proud to expand our commitment to financing affordable housing developments.” MSP Capital is a principal bridging and development lender based on the south coast of England and offering funding solutions to property professionals of up to £10 million.

Leading UK offsite frame manufacturer, Donaldson Timber Systems (DTS), has published, third party accredited environmental product declarations (EPD) for its full wall panel range. In 2024, the DTS open panel Alpha system became the first off-site assembled timber frame wall panel in the UK to offer an approved EPD. DTS now also holds EPDs for its pre-insulated wall system, Delta; and the award-winning closed panel system, Sigma II solid stud and Sigma II I stud. The EPD, which transparently communicates the environmental performance of a product over its lifetime, allows customers to accurately measure their carbon footprint and make informed decisions on the best product choices to meet sustainability goals. It also improves transparency regarding product performance claims, making it easier to compare the impacts of different materials and build systems accurately. The use of EPDs is in line with the Government’s Timber in Construction Roadmap to get Britain building with the use of sustainable and low carbon building materials, which was announced in February. Originally launched in late 2023 under the Conservative Government, the Roadmap has been updated with more ambitious targets. The first priority theme is ‘improving data on timber and whole life carbon’. It is also a measurement which will become increasingly important if the proposed Part Z amendment to Building Regulations is accepted. Valid for five years, the EPD is based on current available and published data for end-of-life assumptions. DTS is working on EPDs for its full product range, with floor and roof systems to follow. John Smith, Technical Director at Donaldson Timber Systems, explains: “We always champion the use of offsite timber frame construction as the best way to achieve sustainable building practices and meet net zero targets but telling customers this is no longer enough. If we are to make meaningful change, all environmental claims need to be backed up with proof." "The only way to achieve zero carbon is to measure and reduce the whole-life carbon of buildings. The availability of environmental product declarations (EPDs) is an important step in recognising this." “We’re proud to be leading the industry with proof that timber frame is a carbon sink, and we’re thrilled that we’re already seeing significant improvements on the EPD we achieved for our Alpha system just six months ago.” Adam Gravely, Head of Technical and Innovation at the Future Homes Hub said: “Understanding embodied and whole life carbon is a crucial next step if we are to meet our net zero carbon ambitions as a sector. There is a challenge around getting product-specific embodied carbon data and homebuilders are increasingly calling on their supply chains to provide EPDs to support their whole life carbon assessments." “It’s great to see DTS’s commitment to supporting their customers and engaging with the Hub on how to drive down the embodied carbon impact of new homes.” Along with an EPD, Sigma® II has achieved a range of third-party approvals, including BOPAS Plus, BBA, NHBC Accepts and STA Gold Assure, delivering the confidence that it is durable, complies with building regulations and technical standards while being designed, manufactured and installed to last for at least 60 years. Sigma® II was also the first timber system verified by Cast to exceed Homes England (HE) Pre-Manufactured Value (PMV) target of 55%, achieving up to 58.4%. As part of the Donaldson Group’s Offsite division, DTS prides itself on being highly sustainable, innovative and efficient. Celebrating it’s 50th anniversary this year, DTS offers unrivalled experience and knowledge in offsite construction, with an established history of bringing new commercial and operational innovations to the market.

England Rugby has announced that Lee Blackett and Byron McGuigan will join Steve Borthwick’s coaching team for the upcoming summer tour to Argentina and the United States. Blackett, currently Bath Rugby’s attack coach, will step in to replace Richard Wigglesworth while he is on duty as an assistant coach with The British & Irish Lions in Australia. He will be joined by former Scotland international McGuigan, currently defence coach at Sale Sharks, who will work alongside Joe El-Abd as assistant defence coach. England’s summer Tour kicks off with a two-Test series against Argentina, with matches taking place in La Plata on Saturday 5 July and San Juan on Saturday 12 July. England then travel to the United States to face the USA Eagles in Washington D.C. on Saturday 19 July. At the conclusion of the tour, Blackett and McGuigan will return to their respective clubs. “Lee and Byron will be excellent additions to our coaching group this summer,” said England head coach Steve Borthwick. “England have traditionally travelled to Argentina when the British & Irish Lions play. It is a summer series that has always provided a fantastic opportunity for Premiership coaches to work in the Test environment. I am delighted that we are able to do just that once again." “Lee and Byron both have a mindset and approach to their coaching that very much align with how we want to continue to play." “Lee has a proven track record of developing teams that play smart and effective attacking rugby. Byron brings an energy and strong understanding of the game that underpins an aggressive defence.” Blackett began his coaching career in 2012 as player-coach at Rotherham Titans, becoming the youngest head coach in the top two tiers of English rugby just a year later. He joined Wasps in 2015 as attack coach, later stepping up as head coach and leading the team to the Premiership final in 2019/20. Following Wasps' administration in 2022, Blackett moved to Scarlets as backs and skills coach, helping them reach the Challenge Cup semi-finals, before joining Bath Rugby ahead of the 2023/24 season. Most recently, he coached England ‘A’ to wins over Australia ‘A’ and Ireland ‘A’ in late 2024 and early 2025. “It’s a huge honour to be asked to join the England coaching team,” said Blackett. “This is a really exciting group of players, and I’m looking forward to working with them and the coaching team for what should be a fantastic challenge.” McGuigan made over 100 appearances for Sale Sharks and earned 10 caps for Scotland before retiring to pursue a coaching career. While still playing, he gained experience with grassroots clubs including Sandbach RFC, Bowdon RFC, and Rossendale RFC, and led Sale Sharks during the 2023/24 Premiership Rugby Cup campaign. In November 2024, he was appointed defence coach at Sale. “It’s a huge honour to be part of the England setup and I’m excited to contribute to the environment that is being built within the England squad,” added McGuigan. In addition to Blackett and McGuigan joining the England coaching team, Phil Morrow will also begin his role as head of team performance on a permanent basis. England’s Summer Tour 2025 Fixtures: Saturday 5 July, England v Argentina – Estadio Jorge Luis Hirschi, Buenos Aires Saturday 12 July, England v Argentina – Estadio San Juan del Bicentenario, San Juan Saturday 19 July, England v USA – Audi Field, Washington, D.C.

As spring reaches its peak and the days stretch longer, May brings a glorious bounty to British fields, hedgerows and waters. This is a month of delicate greens, tender shoots, and the first real promise of summer’s richness. Eating seasonally in May is a true pleasure—it not only supports local growers and producers, but also means food that’s fresher, tastier, and often better for the environment. Whether you’re picking up produce at a farmers’ market, foraging in the countryside, or planning a springtime feast, here’s what to look for—and how to make the most of it. Asparagus: The Crown Jewel of British Spring Arguably the star of May, British asparagus enjoys a short but glorious season, typically running from late April to mid-June. Grown mainly in the Vale of Evesham and across parts of Kent, Norfolk and Lincolnshire, asparagus is best eaten as fresh as possible—preferably within a day of picking. Lightly steamed, roasted or grilled, it needs little more than a drizzle of olive oil or a poached egg to shine. For a more indulgent twist, try it wrapped in prosciutto or stirred through a creamy risotto. New Potatoes: Earthy, Sweet and Tender May heralds the arrival of the first new potatoes, including the much-loved Jersey Royals. These waxy, nutty tubers are often boiled simply with a knob of butter and a handful of mint, letting their natural flavour do the talking. Their delicate skins and soft texture also make them ideal for salads—try them tossed with a mustard vinaigrette, spring onions and flaked salmon for a light lunch. Spring Greens and Leaves This is the season of tender leafy vegetables. Look out for spring greens, a milder, sweeter alternative to winter cabbage, perfect for braising with garlic and lemon. Also in their prime are spinach, watercress and wild garlic, all of which add vibrant colour and a peppery punch to dishes. Wild garlic, in particular, is a forager’s delight—its broad, bright leaves and white flowers can be used in everything from pesto to soups and frittatas. Rhubarb: The Tart Hero of Spring Desserts Forced rhubarb has had its moment earlier in the year, but now the outdoor-grown variety takes over. More robust in texture and flavour, it’s ideal for baking and preserving. Poach it gently with orange zest and ginger, bake it into crumbles and tarts, or stew it for spooning over yoghurt and porridge. Its sharpness pairs beautifully with sweet, creamy elements like custard, cream or vanilla ice cream. British Strawberries (Just Beginning) While June is peak strawberry season, the first British-grown strawberries begin to appear in late May, particularly in the South. These early berries, ripened slowly in the sun, tend to be smaller and sweeter than their imported counterparts. If you’re lucky enough to find them, serve them simply—with a splash of cream, a sprinkle of sugar, or tucked into a classic Victoria sponge. Peas and Broad Beans May is when podding becomes a pleasure. Garden peas and broad beans begin to arrive, offering bursts of sweetness and freshness. Enjoy them raw in salads, gently blanched with mint and lemon, or smashed on toast with crumbled feta. Their vibrant green colour and fresh taste make them a perfect match for spring lamb or grilled fish. Lamb: At Its Most Tender Speaking of lamb, spring lamb is in season and particularly tender at this time of year. Often from younger animals born in late winter, it has a lighter flavour than autumn lamb. Roast leg of lamb with rosemary and garlic remains a British classic, but cuts like shoulder or chops can also be slow-cooked or grilled for more informal meals. Pair with seasonal veg like asparagus, Jersey Royals or minted peas for a truly celebratory plate. Seafood and Shellfish The British coastline is abundant in May. Look out for crab, particularly from Cornwall and the East Coast, which is at its sweetest now. Serve the white meat with a squeeze of lemon on sourdough toast, or use the richer brown meat in a bisque or pâté. Mackerel is also in season—sustainably caught and full of flavour, it’s delicious grilled or smoked. Other highlights include langoustines, cockles and sea trout, all excellent choices for seafood lovers. The Joy of Eating with the Seasons Eating seasonally is about more than just flavour—it connects us to the rhythms of the land and the work of local farmers and producers. It means enjoying foods at their peak, when they’re naturally abundant and at their best. In May, as the countryside bursts into colour and the markets begin to fill with freshness, there’s no better time to embrace what Britain has to offer. So take your basket, explore your local market or greengrocer, and let the flavours of spring inspire your kitchen.