The Ukrainian ambassador has opened the Tank Museum’s new exhibition about the Russia-Ukraine war and concluded his speech by stating: We will win. General Valeril Zaluzhnyi, a four-star general and former chief of staff of his country’s armed forces, also offered his uniform to the Dorset museum. He thanked those behind the exhibition and the British people for their ‘support, solidarity and true friendship.’ Called ‘Ukraine: Armoured Warfare in the Modern Word’, the exhibition includes tanks but also poignant possessions of refugees who fled their country after the invasion in 2022. General Zaluzhnyi took the opportunity to mention the anniversary of the liberation of the ‘Hero City’ of Chernihiv. He said: “The city became a symbol of resilience. It was surrounded, cut off from communication, lacking weapons – but full of faith in freedom. Chernihiv held out because it was defended by ordinary Ukrainians: volunteers, members of the territorial defence and soldiers. Armed not only with rifles but with unbreakable spirit." “The same spirit is what this exhibition represents. Not technology for its own sake, but armour that became a shield to protect human life.” Ukrainian ambassador General Valeril Zaluzhnyi looks around The Tank Museum's new exhibition “Even the strongest armoured vehicles are losing their advantage in the face of new threats – drones, precision strikes and digital intelligence.” He toured the exhibition and was moved to meet Ukrainian refugees, some of whose stories are told. He said: “This exhibition is not only about machines. It is about people. About Ukrainian soldiers who fight not for new borders, but for the right to live in their own country. About British instructors who shared their knowledge. About families who became refugees, but never lot hope.” Chris Price, museum director, said: “It was a great privilege to have the Ukrainian ambassador open our new exhibition. After looking around the exhibits he met some Ukrainian refugees and was clearly moved. He also offered us his uniform which is extremely generous." “In his speech he talked about the history of the tank and obviously has a deep understanding of armoured vehicles, but also the importance of new technologies.” Tobias Ellwood, a former MP who served with Royal Green Jackets, said: “The exhibition explains the horrors of conflict as it unfolds every day. That’s why it is so impressive.” The museum is open from Friday 3rd April and is due to last for two years. Top Photo:  Ukrainian ambassador General Valerii Zaluzhnyi About The Tank Museum The Tank Museum at Bovington in Dorset brings the story of tanks and tank crews to life. With over 300 tanks from 26 nations, The Tank Museum holds the finest and most historically significant collection of fighting armour in the world. These range from the world’s first ever tank, Little Willie, through to the British Army’s current Main Battle Tank, Challenger 2. The Museum’s powerful exhibitions tell the story of armoured warfare spanning over 100 years of history, where visitors come face to face with tanks and hear incredible true stories from the last century. The Tank Museum is an independent Museum and registered Charity.

A restaurant famed for its unique bottomless brunches has just served up its 75,000th glass of fizz and is launching the city's very first evening soiree, in celebration of the milestone. Nicco Restaurant and Bar, based on Pride Park, has been offering its themed brunches for over four years, and has now taken the bold step to launch Derby's very first evening bottomless soiree. Co-owner Bhav Kumar, who runs the Indian fusion restaurant alongside husband Sanj Kumar, said: "Nicco has been famous for its bottomless brunches, we’ve served 10,000 since we opened in 2021, but we are always trying to be inventive and offer new concepts to our clients." "We realised that there was nowhere in Derby which offered a bottomless event in the evening, and we wanted to be the first. We are super excited to see many months of hard work come to fruition." "Traditionally, a bottomless brunch will end at around 4pm, but we find that many of our customers want to carry on the fun with friends. Here at Nicco, we pride ourselves on offering a venue which moves seamlessly from day to night, with a full programme of live evening entertainment, DJ's and now a unique evening soiree." Over the years, the team at Nicco have created some truly spectacular themed brunches with tickets selling out in a matter of days. In the last 12 months alone, the events team have held brunches with a nod to Beyonce, Mamma Mia, and even a Last Days of Summer: Ibiza Soiree. Priced at £55 per person, the brand-new evening soiree will be offered between 6-9pm and will include a choice of three dishes from a brand-new menu. Revellers can enjoy a range of dishes including the spicy calamari with curry mayo, the brand new Lucknowi kebab, or even the rosemary chicken tikka- all which take inspiration from the family's passion for travel, while still staying true to the restaurant's core Indian roots. Bhav, from the eatery which serves around 2500 customers each week, added: "Our newly launched menu has been created alongside our head chef and senior management team. We have worked tirelessly to ensure that it complements our brunch concept perfectly." "We are very much looking forward to welcoming our guests to try something brand new and unique in the city we all call home."

One of Scotland’s leading hospitality operators celebrated their long-serving team members at a special ceremony in Ayrshire. Buzzworks, which was recently named the UK’s ‘Best Managed Pub Company’ at the prestigious Publican Awards, raised a glass to the members of the team who have been with the organisation for over five years during a glittering ceremony at The Vine in Prestwick. Members of the Buzzworks team from across the company - including kitchen and front-of-house teams, members of the maintenance and project departments, and those based at the central support office in Kilmarnock, were lavished with a theatrical dining experience, show stopping entertainment and fireworks. Invitees were personally welcomed on a red carpet by Buzzworks founders Colin, Kenny and Alison Blair and the company’s Head of People, Nicola Watt, with members of the team receiving a personalised gift and touching hand-written message, thanking them for their service. Of the award winners, nearly 40 were commemorated for ten or more years’ service and were given personal recognition by Colin, Kenny and Alison. A special nod was given to three members of the team who have marked over 20 years with the company, including Danny Poli, 2nd Head Chef at Scotts Troon; John Winton, Sous Chef at Lido Troon and Debi Bradford from the Customer Services team. Debi said: “Being part of Buzzworks for so many years has been an incredible journey, and I’m so proud of everything we’ve achieved as a team." “We’ve been through so much together, and it truly feels like a family. The whole evening exceeded my expectations - I didn’t expect such a spectacular celebration, and it really made me feel special.” She added: “I appreciate the lengths Buzzworks went to in recognising us.” Nicola Watt, Head of People at Buzzworks, added: “Our people are at the heart of everything we do, so we’re incredibly proud to celebrate the dedication and passion of our long-serving team members." “The evening was truly emotional and filled with so much pride as we came together to celebrate those who have helped make Buzzworks the success it is today.    To have so many individuals who have been with us for five, ten, or even twenty years is a remarkable achievement for any employer, but to achieve this in hospitality is truly exceptional." “A special mention must go to those who have been with us for over a decade – and especially Danny, Debi and John who have been with Buzzworks since its inception in 2002 – they have helped our company grow to where it is today and have contributed hugely to its success thus far." “We love to recognise our great team and this event, which will be held annually, is a perfect opportunity to appreciate our long serving members.”

When we learn that 90% of adults say they don’t get enough sleep it’s understandable that napping and power naps can play an important role in supplementing our health and wellbeing. Brief naps can be restorative and reduce daytime fatigue. After a night of insufficient sleep, a nap can be a good way to counteract drowsiness, especially in the case of shift workers who may well struggle to get enough sleep and need to be alert at irregular times. According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, a short daytime snooze may be an effective way to enhance workplace performance and benefit alertness, mood, memory, as well as reduce stress. Athletes may experience improved endurance, reaction times and cognitive performance if they take a daytime nap (The National Centre for Biotechnology Information). But some people find it difficult to nap in the day, even though they’re tired. Let’s look at some of the reasons why: Insomnia : If you regularly have trouble falling asleep, wake up frequently throughout the night, or oftentimes lie awake, you might be dealing with insomnia. Aim to establish a consistent sleep routine as well as a relaxing bedtime environment. Try to avoid caffeine, alcohol, heavy meals, or using your devices too close to bedtime. Circadian Rhythm Disruptions : Irregular sleep schedules or exposure to artificial light can mess with your body’s internal clock, making it challenging to nap during the day. It’s important to maintain a regular sleep-wake cycle and get some morning sunlight exposure. Stress and Anxiety : Feeling mentally wired or anxious can prevent you from falling asleep, even when you’re physically tired. Deep breathing, meditation and relaxation techniques can calm your mind. Write lists to remove the pressure of having to remember all that needs to be done. Poor Sleep Hygiene : Your daytime behaviour can impact night-time sleep. Avoid bright screens, coffee, heavy meals, and exercise close to bedtime. Optimize your sleep environment by keeping it dark, quiet, and comfortable. Take regular breaks throughout the day and train your mind to learn how to intermittently switch off. To get the most benefits from napping the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that the optimal nap length for adults is between 20 and 30 minutes. Sleeping for 20 minutes allows time for light sleep to boost alertness without entering into deep sleep. Napping for too long can turn into deep sleep, which can cause grogginess upon awakening and worsen sleepiness. Occasionally, a longer nap of around ninety minutes may be beneficial, as it allows the body to cycle through the stages of sleep without interrupting deep sleep. This may be especially helpful for emergency workers and shift workers who have to function well and avoid fatigue. Experts, including the National Centre for Biotechnology Information, typically recommend that adults take naps eight or more hours before bedtime, usually before 3 p.m. Napping too late in the day may contribute to night-time sleep problems. For some people, naps may feel natural or even necessary after lunchtime, sometimes referred to as a post-lunch dip or siesta time. While eating lunch may play a role in afternoon sleepiness, this dip is linked to our circadian rhythm, the body’s internal clock which follows a 24-hour cycle. Within this cycle are two peak periods for sleepiness, the greatest being in the night, the second one falling in early afternoon. The best sleep environment is cool, quiet and dark. A comfortable nap setting means there are no unwanted interruptions or disturbances. If possible, a bedroom can be ideal for a short nap. Adding blackout curtains or a white noise machine to block out distractions can help both at night and during daytime naps. In an office setting, accessories such as earplugs or an eye mask can reduce disruptions during nap time. Some offices have even installed nap pods or other quiet areas for relaxation or a short period of restorative sleep, as the benefit to the business of rested and alert staff is increasingly being acknowledged. Before taking a nap it’s a good idea to set an alarm for the desired length of time, preferably around 20 minutes, with perhaps a second alarm set to go off shortly afterwards to avoid napping for too long. Try to get up as soon as the alarm sounds and then stretch or walk around to shake off any post-nap sleepiness. Those who are taking a nap to get an energy boost may benefit from drinking caffeine before napping. The brain and body feel the impact of caffeine about 30 minutes after it’s consumed, so having caffeine immediately before a short nap may improve alertness upon awakening. It’s important to evaluate our daily energy levels and sleep patterns, including night-time sleep and the duration and frequency of naps. If fatigue or daytime sleepiness negatively affects our work or other obligations regularly, we may need to consider changing our sleep habits. Remember, everyone’s sleep needs are different. While some people thrive on naps, others may find them disruptive. If you find it hard to take naps maybe find alternative ways to recharge, through better diet, exercise, fresh air or have a talk with your GP or therapist. About the Author - This piece was written by Susan Leigh, Counsellor and Hypnotherapist Find out more by visiting her website here

“Any moment now, someone’s going to realise I’ve got no idea what I’m doing.” If that sentence sounds painfully familiar, welcome to the club. It’s not exclusive – quite the opposite. From students to CEOs, seasoned creatives to newly promoted managers, millions live with a quiet, persistent fear that they’re a fraud. Despite qualifications, promotions, praise or achievements, they worry they’re just winging it – and sooner or later, they’ll be found out. This psychological pattern has a name: imposter syndrome. First coined in the 1970s by psychologists Pauline Clance and Suzanne Imes, imposter syndrome originally described high-achieving women who struggled to internalise their success. Since then, research has revealed that it affects people across genders, backgrounds and industries. And in today’s high-pressure, hyper-visible world, it’s become a common undercurrent in many of our lives. But what exactly is imposter syndrome? At its core, it’s a deep belief that your accomplishments aren’t earned, but rather the result of luck, timing or simply fooling others. You may discount compliments, overwork to “prove” your worth, or avoid opportunities for fear of being “exposed”. All the while, a nagging voice inside insists: You don’t belong here. It’s worth noting that imposter syndrome isn’t an official psychiatric diagnosis. It’s not a mental illness, but a well-documented and recognisable pattern of thinking. In fact, it can coexist with high competence and ambition – which is why it often shows up in high performers. Paradoxically, the more you achieve, the louder that inner critic can become. Social media hasn’t helped. When we’re constantly scrolling through curated snapshots of others’ lives and careers, it’s easy to fall into the comparison trap. Online, everyone seems more confident, more accomplished, more deserving. But behind those polished LinkedIn updates and glamorous Instagram reels, many of us are quietly battling self-doubt. So what can be done? The first step is naming it. Acknowledging that you’re experiencing imposter feelings – and that they’re incredibly common – can be freeing. You’re not alone, and you’re not broken. In fact, imposter syndrome might just mean you’re growing, stretching, learning – all signs of someone who cares deeply about their work. Talking about it helps too. Sharing your feelings with trusted friends, mentors or colleagues can break the illusion that everyone else has it all figured out. More often than not, they’ll respond with, “You feel that too?” And just like that, the power of imposter syndrome begins to shrink. It’s also helpful to keep a “praise folder” – a collection of kind emails, positive feedback, achievements or moments of pride. When that self-doubt creeps in, revisit it. Let the evidence speak louder than your inner critic. Ultimately, imposter syndrome thrives in silence and shame. But when we bring it into the open – when we speak about it, laugh about it, and challenge it – we loosen its grip. Confidence isn’t about never feeling like a fraud. It’s about learning to keep going anyway, trusting that who you are and what you bring to the table is more than enough. And if you’re still wondering whether you belong? You do. The door didn’t open by mistake. You’re here for a reason.

Denholm Good Logistics Limited, an award-winning provider of end-to-end logistics and shipping services, is delighted to announce the acquisition of Quay Holdings Limited and its wholly owned subsidiary Quay Cargo Services Limited, a well-established shipping and transport company based in Belfast. This strategic acquisition expands Denholm Good Logistics’ footprint in Northern Ireland while enhancing its range of services, which now include freight forwarding, short sea shipping, customs clearance, liner agency, European road freight, and airfreight. With a history dating back to 1995, Quay Cargo Services has built a strong reputation for delivering transportation solutions to Northern Irish businesses operating in both export and import markets. As the appointed liner agent for Hapag-Lloyd in Northern Ireland, the company plays a key role in facilitating global trade. This acquisition marks the coming together of two family-owned businesses with shared values, a customer-centric approach, and a strong culture of innovation. Quay Cargo Services’ highly skilled team, extensive industry knowledge, and broad service capabilities align perfectly with Denholm Good Logistics’ ambitious long-term strategy for growth. Strategic Benefits and Future Collaboration Customers, and employees, can expect business as usual, with the added benefit of the strength and enhanced service capabilities under the Denholm Group umbrella. Both companies will leverage their combined expertise to drive additional value for customers. The acquisition will contribute to the long-term success of both businesses. Alan Platt, Divisional Managing Director of the Denholm Logistics Group said: “We are all delighted to welcome Quay Cargo Services into the Denholm family, bringing two great companies with exceptional people together. We have had a long-standing joint venture, known as Captain Container, with Quay Cargo Services which offers container handling and storage in the Port of Belfast. Having worked so closely with Gary and his team, it seemed logical that we collaborate more closely, and we are genuinely excited at the prospect of exploring how we can further grow our businesses in the future.” Gary Stewart, Managing Director of Quay Cargo Services added: “This is a fantastic opportunity for Quay Cargo Services to join forces with a like-minded family-owned business that shares our commitment to excellence and customer service. We are excited about the future and look forward to working together to continue delivering first-class logistics solutions.” Integration and Continuity Quay Cargo Services will maintain its brand identity and continue operating as a standalone entity. Customers and employees are assured that it will remain business as usual. The partnership will focus on growth, service enhancement, innovation and creating long-term career opportunities within the business. A Stronger Future Together This acquisition represents a significant step forward for both companies. By combining resources, expertise, and a shared commitment to excellence, Denholm Good Logistics and Quay Cargo Services are well-positioned to strengthen their presence in Northern Ireland and provide improved logistics solutions to customers worldwide.

British Cycling can confirm the dates and venues for the 2025 Lloyds National BMX Freestyle Park Series fixtures. Building on the momentum of Kieran Reilly’s silver medal success at the Olympic Games in Paris last year, and Charlotte Worthington and Declan Brooks’ successes in the discipline back in 2020, the Series returns for its fourth year with three high quality fixtures taking place from June to November. Asylum Skatepark in Sutton-in-Ashfield kicks off proceedings on the weekend of the 14-15 June, before moving on to Junction 4 Urban Sports Village in Darwen on the 23-24 August, just a few weeks out from October’s UEC European Championships, so the domestic events will be key in the riders’ preparations for the continental event. The Series concludes at Adrenaline Alley on the 15-16 November where the National champions will be crowned. British Cycling’s BMX FS Programme Coach, Greg Illingworth, said, “We’re buzzing to be working with these world class facilities once again, they are pivotal in supporting the growth of BMX freestyle across the country. Like in previous years, they will provide a high-quality environment and an incredible atmosphere for the riders and spectators. Thank you to all the venues and partners for providing the support." “The series continues to evolve, with the standard of riding in the UK rising year-on-year. Interest is growing as we see the legacy of the successes from the previous two Olympics, it is an exciting time for BMX Park riding in the UK.” The venue and date of the National Championships will follow soon. Calendar: Round 1: 14/15th June at Asylum Skatepark, Sutton-in-Ashfield Round 2: 23/24 August at Junction 4 Urban Sports Village, Darwen Round 3: 15/16 November at Adrenaline Alley, Corby

Family businesses often embody generations of hard work, dedication, and a deep sense of heritage. Maintaining control of such a business within the bloodline is often a top priority for families. However, life events such as marriage and divorce can pose risks to this continuity, particularly when it comes to ownership shares. This is where post-nuptial agreements—legal contracts signed after marriage—play a vital role. What is a Post-Nuptial Agreement? A post-nuptial agreement is a legally binding document that outlines the division of assets, financial responsibilities, and other terms in the event of a divorce or separation. Unlike a pre-nuptial agreement, which is signed before marriage, a post-nuptial agreement is executed after the couple has already tied the knot. While post-nuptial agreements can address general marital assets, they are particularly useful for family businesses aiming to secure their assets for future generations. How Post-Nuptial Agreements Protect Family Businesses Ensuring Shares Stay in the Family A primary concern for family-run businesses is the potential for ownership shares to pass to a non-family member through divorce. Without safeguards, a divorcing spouse could claim a portion of the business, leading to an outsider having influence or ownership in the company. A post-nuptial agreement can stipulate that any shares in the family business remain within the family, regardless of the outcome of the marriage. Mitigating Financial Risks Divorce proceedings often result in the liquidation or redistribution of marital assets, which can disrupt business operations. By clearly defining how the business will be handled in such scenarios, a post-nuptial agreement can protect the company from financial turmoil, ensuring its long-term stability and growth. Preserving Decision-Making Control Family businesses thrive on shared values and decision-making among trusted members. A post-nuptial agreement can prevent a scenario where a non-family member gains decision-making power through their acquired shares. This preserves the company's vision and cohesion. Clarifying Ownership Boundaries Post-nuptial agreements allow families to delineate which aspects of the business are marital property and which are personal or family property. This clarity reduces disputes and ensures that the business’s core assets remain intact. Supporting Successor Planning For families focused on legacy, post-nuptial agreements can play a critical role in succession planning. By keeping shares in the bloodline, these agreements ensure that future generations can take the reins without interference or dilution of ownership. Key Considerations for Post-Nuptial Agreements When drafting a post-nuptial agreement for a family business, it’s essential to consider the following: Transparency and Fairness Both spouses should fully disclose their financial assets, liabilities, and business interests to ensure the agreement is enforceable and fair. Legal Expertise Since family businesses often involve complex structures, it’s crucial to work with legal professionals who specialize in business law and family law. Their expertise can help address any nuances specific to the company and jurisdiction. Involvement of All Stakeholders While the agreement is primarily between spouses, involving key family members in the process can promote trust and alignment with the family’s broader goals. Periodic Reviews Post-nuptial agreements should be revisited periodically to reflect changes in the business, family circumstances, or the law. "Post-nuptial agreements offer a powerful tool for family businesses to safeguard their assets, maintain control, and ensure the continuity of their legacy. By addressing the unique challenges posed by marriage and divorce, these agreements can provide peace of mind and stability, ensuring that the family business remains a source of pride and prosperity for generations to come."

Property consultancy Vail Williams has successfully negotiated leasing deals worth a total of £3.07 million rent roll in just five weeks right across the Thames Valley region, with a further £6.5 million under offer. The agency based in team in Reading and Oxford all worked on the deals for a range of regional, national and international clients. Guy Parkes, Vail Williams Partner based in Reading, said: “The whole team has been exceptionally busy in getting numerous deals over the line. We feel that this not only demonstrates that confidence is returning to the office market across the region, but that there are a great many businesses out there seeking the best accommodation as the flight to quality continues with hybrid working arrangements settling down into a clear rhythm. “Landlords prepared to invest and speculate in delivering super prime and Grade A stock may well prosper and see rental growth drive forward whilst there is strong demand and lack of new office stock coming to market at this time.” Recent deals have included: Uxbridge – 10,000 sq ft letting at Three Roundwood Avenue, Stockley Park, the refurbished and redesigned office workspace on a first class business park, on behalf of local authority client. Wimbledon – 17,000 sq ft acquisition of office space for a leading retail group behind major high street names. Reading – 7,000 sq ft acquisition of office space Apex Plaza, a 221,000 sq ft office building revamped for a contemporary workplace, for an independent higher education watchdog. Reading – 10,000 sq ft disposal at Reading Bridge House, the refurbished high specification office building by the Thames, to a major Private Healthcare provider. Reading – 5694 sq ft disposal at Reading Bridge House to a global recruitment specialist. Reading – 1,070 sq ft disposal at Reading Bridge House to a service management specialist. Reading – 7,073 sqft acquisition at Davidson House, a 121,000 sqft prime office in the business quarter to a major brand specialising in media advertising. Bracknell – 3,750 sq ft disposal at One Arlington Square, the modern Grade A workplace created in an extensively renovated office building, to a fast-growing distributor of AV and workplace solutions. Milton Park, Oxfordshire – 23,000 sq ft letting of laboratory space to a growing battery technology specialist on behalf on the leading hub for innovation’s owners. Vail Williams has been advising public and private sector organisations across the Thames Valley for more than 30 years. The firm has one of the largest multidisciplinary property teams in the region, based in Reading and Oxford. Vail Williams’ full-service property advice includes commercial agency, investment and development advice, building consultancy, property valuation, planning, lease advisory, property asset management, business rates and occupier consultancy.

Agritech is worth an estimated £13bn to the UK economy, but new research from Barclays finds that while six in ten farmers plan to adopt technological innovations, they are not being provided with the support needed, despite its potential to improve productivity and bottom lines. Barclays has been working with the UK agricultural sector for over 280 years and lends £1 in every £4 to the sector. Its latest report, Agritech: supporting the future of farming draws on insights from farmers and Agritech companies to highlight key barriers slowing the adoption of such transformative technologies. Financial challenges coupled with perceived lack of government support were highlighted as the primary obstacles. Almost half (45%) of farmers surveyed cited an unclear return on investment and extensive upfront costs (41%) as key financial barriers, followed by a lack of knowledge on how best to use the technologies (24%). Against a challenging political backdrop, farmers felt there was more that the government could do to support them, from providing clarity around long-term policy (71%), providing more support and guidance on sustainable farming practices (48%), to providing overall support for and promotion of UK farms (48%). The report also highlights the risk the UK could face in falling behind other geographies if it can’t get the supporting supply chain and ecosystem aligned. One company executive quoted in the report called out the difference between the UK and Europe, “What I’m seeing in continental Europe is a real joined up approach from farmer to manufacturer, universities are involved, etc. I don’t see that in the UK – in fact, I’ve seen the reverse.” Barclays is calling on government to address these barriers and spearhead the development and adoption of this critical industry, through three key actions: 1. Develop and communicate a clear national strategy for the agriculture transition, clearly setting out the role Agritech can play 2. Provide broad financial support for both Agritech development and adoption, including guarantees and deploying targeted support via the National Wealth Fund and British Business Bank 3. Create a catalytic ecosystem-wide hub through the combined UK Agritech centres, bringing together actors from across the sector to enable better collaboration, as well as develop a dedicated skills programme to support the domestic talent pipeline Barclays, in parallel, is renewing its Eagle Lab partnership with the University of Lincoln. Launched in 2020, the partnership is focused on supporting agricultural start-ups and entrepreneurs, providing access to facilities including a dedicated robotics lab, as well as to experts across the industry. Abdul Qureshi, Managing Director, Business Banking, Barclays, said: “Agritech will transform the UK’s farming landscape. From drones, AI to robotics, Agritech is supercharging an industry that feeds us all." "At a time when farming is being asked to do more with less, we recognise it will take a collective effort to create the right enabling environment, but if we get this right, Agritech can help our farmers, and play a meaningful role in both protecting and driving forward one of Britain’s most vital sectors. As the government develops its 25-year agriculture roadmap and national food plan, there is no better time.”

As winter fades and the days grow longer, spring in the UK brings with it a welcome transformation in the world of food. Among the most exciting changes is the arrival of seasonal vegetables, offering fresh, vibrant flavours that signal the start of a new growing season. After months of relying on root vegetables and preserved produce, spring’s bounty provides an array of crisp, tender and nutrient-rich ingredients that define the flavours of the season. One of the earliest signs of spring on British plates is asparagus. Highly prized for its delicate taste and tender spears, British asparagus is in season for just a few short weeks between April and June. Grown predominantly in counties such as Worcestershire and Norfolk, it thrives in the UK’s cool, temperate climate. Traditionally served simply with melted butter or hollandaise sauce, it also pairs beautifully with eggs, making it a favourite in classic dishes such as asparagus soldiers or spring tarts. Another much-anticipated spring vegetable is purple sprouting broccoli. Unlike its bulkier, year-round cousin, this variety is harvested in the cooler months and reaches its peak in early spring. Its deep purple florets and slender stalks offer a slightly nutty flavour, making it a versatile addition to stir-fries, pastas, and roasted vegetable dishes. Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, it is not only delicious but also a nutritional powerhouse. Spring greens, the tender and leafy first cabbages of the year, are another staple of the season. Unlike the tightly packed heads of winter cabbages, spring greens have loose, soft leaves and a mild, slightly sweet flavour. They cook quickly and work well when lightly steamed or sautéed with garlic and a drizzle of olive oil. Their freshness makes them a perfect companion to spring lamb or fish, adding both colour and a boost of nutrients to seasonal meals. Peas and broad beans also make their return as the season progresses. Nothing quite matches the pleasure of freshly shelled peas, bursting with sweetness and best enjoyed straight from the pod. Whether tossed into salads, stirred into risottos, or blended into soups, they bring a bright, green vibrancy to spring dishes. Broad beans, with their creamy texture and earthy flavour, are equally beloved. Often paired with mint and feta or served alongside grilled meats, they capture the essence of British springtime dining. The arrival of new potatoes marks another milestone in the season. These small, waxy potatoes, particularly those from Jersey, are cherished for their firm texture and subtly sweet taste. Their paper-thin skins mean they require little preparation, making them an easy yet flavourful addition to any meal. Boiled and served with butter and fresh herbs, they epitomise the simple pleasures of spring eating. With the abundance of fresh produce available, spring in the UK offers an opportunity to embrace the best that nature has to offer. Farmers’ markets and greengrocers burst with colour as seasonal vegetables make their way from field to kitchen, inspiring lighter, fresher dishes after the hearty meals of winter. Cooking with the season not only ensures the best flavour and nutrition but also supports sustainable and locally grown produce. As the landscape awakens and the weather brightens, so too does the food on our plates. The arrival of spring vegetables is a reminder of the joys of eating in tune with the seasons, celebrating the simple, natural flavours that define this time of renewal and abundance.

Traditional long-term leases for business storage are becoming less popular as companies move to short-term ones instead. According to Dorset-headquartered Store & Secure, the increasing pressures on businesses are prompting them to take a more flexible approach. Traditionally, a company requiring storage might take out a long-term lease on a unit even if it wasn’t required all the time. Now they are shopping around and finding that renting a unit on a monthly or even weekly basis is more cost-effective. Lucy Maidman and sister Sophie – aka the Storage Sisters – have run numerous storage businesses. The pair now run a huge facility in Hamworthy, Poole, and have noticed the trend grow. Lucy said: “With a cost-of-living crisis and pressure on businesses we are seeing facilities like ours becoming more popular for companies. We have seen more retail businesses going online and using our facility to store stock." “And now we are receiving more enquires from businesses in all sectors who are shopping around for storage and looking for flexibility. They see long leases as a risk and an expense that can be reduced. They are preferring short-term leases for storage, which can be just a week long, for example." “We offer rolling leases so companies can end them as they please and make as many savings as possible – sometimes tens of thousands of pounds a year. Storage facilities like ours are often viewed as places where people put things while they move house, but they are much more than that." “We have serviced offices, outside containers and storage rooms of varying sizes with all the security required – both physical and digital. The flexibility we offer and speed with which clients can hire a unit and put their stock inside is a major attraction." “From talking to others in the storage sector I think this trend is widespread. It also allows some businesses to find small, cheaper premises knowing when they need storage it is always available.” Above Photo: Lucy and Sophie Maidman, the ‘Storage Sisters’, either side of colleague Kavan Wood