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Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce Eliot Peposhi has signed a new full-time three-year deal – with thanks to the Bradford Bulls Squad Booster Association for their support. The 21-year-old initially arrived on a trial basis prior to the start of our 2024 campaign, before being rewarded with a permanent three-year deal after a string of impressive, industrious performances. A former St Helens junior, Peposhi has made 15 appearances to date alongside productive loan spells at Dewsbury Rams and Batley Bulldogs this season. Peposhi, who was sponsored by Richard Bloodworth and Lilly Grace in 2025, said: “I am really happy to be staying at Bradford, I said when I signed last year that it was every child’s dream to play Super League so it is amazing to be able to look forward to playing for Bradford in Super League." “I have been putting my all in every day since coming to the club and going full-time means I can give this everything I’ve got to make an impact at Bradford. I am looking forward to getting into pre-season training and doing my best to impress Kurt, there is still a lot more to my game and I know I will be able to develop and continue progressing over the next three years.” Bradford Bulls Head Coach Kurt Haggerty said: “I like Eliot, he gives 100% in absolutely everything that he does. He is aggressive, he’s physical, he isn’t a big man but he certainly plays big. There’s a lot to his game that I like and I think moving into a full-time environment we will really see the best of him."

Award-winning Scottish hospitality operator, Buzzworks, has announced the appointment of Maurissa Fergusson as its new Property Director. Her addition to the leadership team is the latest in a series of senior appointments, reflecting the company’s growth strategy as it expands into rooms and accommodation. With over 25 years of experience in the property and real estate industry, Maurissa’s career spans the commercial, retail and hospitality sectors. A qualified architect, Maurissa has led major projects across the UK, including at Scotmid, where she oversaw property, development and facilities. Passionate about how spaces shape experiences, she focuses on creating welcoming, functional environments that reflect brand identity and encourage repeat visits. Maurissa Fergusson, Property Director at Buzzworks, said: “Branching into rooms and accommodation is a natural next step for Buzzworks, and I’m proud to be leading this new chapter of the company’s growth." “Buzzworks have an industry leading reputation for exceptional hospitality, and my focus is on delivering a steady pipeline of well-chosen spaces that perform well and reflect that same level of care and quality." “This is an exciting opportunity to shape a new guest experience, whilst also supporting and enhancing the long-term development of our people and portfolio.” Maurissa will lead the Projects and Facilities team, overseeing all stages of property development, renovation, and maintenance throughout the group’s already impressive portfolio of 22 bars and restaurants across Scotland. Kenny Blair, Managing Director of Buzzworks, added: “Maurissa brings an extensive wealth of property knowledge and experience that will prove invaluable to our team. Her expertise in balancing operational efficiency with delivering an exceptional guest experience will be instrumental as the business expands its offerings." “This is a really exciting chapter for Buzzworks and we are thrilled to have Maurissa on board." Buzzworks was recently crowned Best Managed Pub Company in the UK (Under 51 sites) at The Publican Awards – the first Scottish operator to achieve this accolade.

Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce Joe Keyes has penned a new full-time deal to remain with the club until the end of the 2026 season. The half-back returned for a third spell in the red, amber and black prior to the start of our 2025 campaign, making 24 appearances and scoring six tries. Keyes joins Jayden Nikorima and Rowan Milnes as options in the halves ahead of our eagerly anticipated return to Betfred Super League next year – with the Ireland international looking forward to the prospect of being back in the top flight. Joe Keyes, who was sponsored by Stuart Readyhough @ Maclean And Co in 2025 said:  “I am really excited to have the opportunity to be a part of the next exciting chapter at the Bulls. I’ve enjoyed my time since being back and looking forward to building on that this coming season.” Bradford Bulls Head Coach Kurt Haggerty said: “He will be pushing the likes of Jayden Nikorima and Rowan Milnes and Joe is a very competent player in his own right. He's been a very good Championship player, he's tipped his toe in and out of Super League which shows that he has the ability to play Super League. “There are a lot of parts to Joe’s game that I like and there are a lot of parts to his game that I think I can help him with. He's a really good player to have in our squad.”

Linwoods is delighted to announce Olympic Gold Medallist Rower Hannah Scott MBE as the brand’s newest Brand Ambassador. During her recent visit to Linwoods HQ, Hannah toured the production plant and delivered inspiring talks to the Linwoods team, sharing her insights on motivation, performance, and the importance of nutrition in achieving success. A dedicated fan of Linwoods products, Hannah’s training fuel includes Linwoods Overnight Oats and Milled Flaxseed, which she credits as essential parts of her daily routine. Her personal motto, “Oats move boats,” perfectly captures her belief in the power of good nutrition to drive performance." “We are absolutely delighted to team up with Hannah,” said Patrick Woods, Managing Director, Linwoods. “She embodies everything Linwoods stands for, health, vitality, and helping people feel great every day.” As an elite athlete and inspiring role model, Hannah Scott MBE is the perfect representative of Linwoods’ commitment to supporting people on their journey to better health and wellbeing.

Dozens of businesses keen to put clean growth and sustainability at the heart of their everyday operations are set to attend a free conference and exhibition in Basingstoke. Practical steps to achieve more sustainable supply chains will be a key focus at the third annual Unlocking Hampshire's Green Potential. Organisers aim to build on the success of last year’s event which brought together more than 130 decision makers from companies, the third sector and local government. Open to businesses of all sizes and in all sectors, UHGP is staged by Hampshire Chamber of Commerce in partnership with headline sponsor Basingstoke and Dean Borough Council. Ross McNally, Hampshire Chamber’s Chief Executive and Executive Chairman, said: “As our region’s independent voice of business, we want firms of all sizes and in all sectors to champion green growth. That’s why this event is open to all, so we can share insights and learn from each other. We welcome entrepreneurs just starting out, alongside aspirational SMEs and larger enterprises looking to make big changes in support of people and planet.” The day features expert advice on how to access green finance under ESG (environmental, social and governance) goals coupled with practical insight from innovators who have already built green investments into their operations. Leader of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Councillor Paul Harvey said: “This event puts a spotlight on sustainable procurement which is no longer a nice-to-have; it’s a competitive edge. Sourcing locally in Hampshire helps businesses to cut carbon, appeal to eco-conscious customers, retain great staff and, ultimately, boost their bottom line.” Also partnering on UHGP is Farnborough Airport, the first business aviation airport in the UK to achieve carbon neutrality. Mark Sanderson, Corporate Responsibility Manager, said: “With a long-standing history of supporting opportunities and prosperity in the local area, Farnborough Airport is a proud sponsor of UHGP.” Returning as one of the presenters will be Dr. Wendy Buckley, Director and Co-founder of Carbon Footprint Ltd and Chair of the North Hampshire Sustainability Business Network. Also sharing advice will be Barry Smith, Chair Basingstoke for Hampshire Chamber, who has led much of the event planning. Barry said: “UHGP is an ideal first-hand opportunity to gain practical advice on how to achieve your ESG goals from leading experts in the field of sustainability. It’s all about making real change happen and meeting like-minded businesses and supply chain partners.” Unlocking Hampshire’s Green Potential 2025 takes place at the Apollo Hotel, Basingstoke, RG24 9NU, on Tuesday 18 November 2025 between 9am and 1pm.

A Brazilian entrepreneur visited the UK to learn English - funded by the sale of her late grandad’s cows - and never returned! Next week she is celebrating the second anniversary of her audiology clinic in Warwickshire with a special Open Day – in aid of a national hearing charity. Carolina Leal is opening the doors to the Audiology Expert, to say thank you to the community she now calls home – and there will even be a special canine guest dropping in thanks to their national charity partners on the day, Hearing Dogs For Deaf People. With impressive career credentials spanning over 18 years, Carolina’s thirst for professional knowledge has helped shape the next generation of audiologists through her experience in both teaching and overseeing national studies, some of which have even led to policy change. As an active member of the British Society of Audiology, she has written national guidance protocols as well as conducting UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service) assessments and numerous consultancy roles. Dually trained with a BSc in Audiology and Speech & Language Therapy from Brazil, Carolina completed her MSc in Advanced Audiology from University College London, in 2012 while working in her first professional role as a medical technical officer at The Royal National Throat, Nose and Ear Hospital. Indeed, she has come a long way since leaving her small hometown of Santo Antônio do Grama at the age of just 14, making the most of a private schooling opportunity afforded to her by her uncle. But she said: “After my degree, I found myself questioning what I wanted to do next. I knew I didn't want to go back to my hometown, so I decided to do a masters, but really needed to learn English first." “Around this time my mum had inherited some land and cows from my late grandad so she sold the cows and gave me the money to come to London. But I ended up staying longer than the six months I had planned and paid my way through English school with part-time work in a florists.” Years of practising and teaching experience eventually led her to Keyla De Magalhaes, who supported Carolina’s ambitions to emulate the success of her The Audiology Expert business model in Suffolk. Now Carolina’s learning continues as she strives to complete the PhD in Clinical Neuroscience she started with the University of Cambridge - slowed by a series of setbacks, from Covid to divorce and co-parenting and grieving the loss of her mother back in Brazil. This led Carolina to relocate to Leamington Spa where she had a short spell as a lecturer at Aston University before going on to work in the private sector. “I recall I went back to Brazil and told my mum: ‘I'm giving up this PhD now because I have had enough’ - but just before she died she begged me not to. ‘You can do it,’ she would say. So every time I catch myself asking why am I doing this, thinking of my mum gives me that purpose. It would have made her so proud.” These supportive words will also be ‘ringing in her ears’ on November 6th when Carolina is joined by fellow experts to offer advice and guidance on all things audiology in a relaxed setting. Visitors later on in the day may even be lucky enough to meet Robyn, the 10-year-old yellow labrador from Hearing Dogs for Deaf People and learn all about the work of the charity, which is the event’s nominated fundraising partner. Vicky Ryan, Community Fundraising Manager at Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, said: “It costs around £40,000 to care for and train a hearing dog throughout their lifetime, so any funds raised will make a real difference - helping us to create even more life-changing partnerships in Warwickshire and the surrounding areas.” Carolina hopes the free event will dispel some of the myths she says still surround hearing aids. Also attending will be The Mayor of Leamington, Councillor Ruggy Singh, who said: “I am looking forward to meeting the audiologists who carry out such valuable work in our community. Hearing is something that many of us take for granted until there is a problem, yet it plays such a crucial role in how we connect with others. Having your hearing checked regularly is a step that can significantly enhance your quality of life.” The Audiology Expert offers everything from full hearing assessments to ear wax removal. Carolina said: “There is a lot of stigma around wearing hearing aids. I'm always honest with everyone in terms of the technology that we offer, but also the limitations." “Technology has come a long way in how soon we can diagnose problems before it affects speech and language development. There are a lot of people for whom hearing aids change the quality of their life completely, so I find that hugely rewarding. It's that joy of reintroducing them to things that they didn't even realise they were missing before. It can feel like you’re giving them their life back.” She added: “The secret to the success of my clinic is in the one-to-one contact and just taking the time with the patient and offering tailored personal care, all of which gives me a lot of personal satisfaction.” The Open Day takes place at The Audiology Expert at Pure Offices, Plato Close, Leamington with drop-ins welcomed between 10am-5pm.

When sibling hoteliers in Blackpool both vie for a prestigious award there will be no need for rivalry because this time they are proud joint finalists for Best Family-Run Hotel. Nigel Seddon and Liz Brown’s dream is to share in the Lancashire Tourism Awards spotlight for the first time, for their businesses The Elgin and Hotel Sheraton, both on the Queen’s Promenade. It marks a proud milestone in the family’s long history as hoteliers, which began some 56 years ago. In 1969 Irene and John Seddon moved from Greater Manchester to Blackpool to take over The Elgin, with the help of John’s mother, Dodo, who was involved in all aspects of the business until the age of 70. It was ten years later that 21-year-old Nigel gave in to his ambitions to travel Australia to become the third generation of Seddons to join the business, taking on the role of General Manager at The Elgin – and has not looked back, working hard to build on the success of the hotel. His proudest achievement, securing the much-coveted Top Spot on TripAdvisor! He said: “My main job was to get people through the door and then develop the hotel, because at that time we had 55 rooms and only two bathrooms. People queued down the corridor for a bath and it was 10p in the meter for heating and you’d get a hot water bottle in your bed!" "Slowly, but surely, over ten years, we turned 55 rooms into 40 ensuite rooms and then, in 2001, we bought the hotel next door, The Bolingbroke, and more than doubled our capacity, going to 89 bedrooms." “Not long after I'd started, dad got quite ill and mum needed to look after him and I just had to get on with it. I was pretty autonomous really."   “Dad died 36 years ago but mum carried on working until we bought the hotel next door and then retired. She is very much a matriarch and still likes to be involved - and the long-standing guest and staff members love chatting to her.” In 1985, Elgin Tours was also launched, offering ABTA-bonded, travel-inclusive holidays, which is still popular today. Whilst proud of his raft of awards - including The Lancashire Tourism Awards’ Large Hotel of the Year last year - Nigel hopes to share the latest spoils with his sister when they vie for the Best Family-Owned Business – together. He said: “There’s a bit of healthy competition between my sister and I. It’s like the old cliché - the best thing that happened to Coke was Pepsi!" “But we learn from each other. We like to think we complement each other really. We have different strengths. For example, Liz will do all the interior design for here, and I sign the bills off at the Sheraton. But it was important we didn’t go up against each other in these awards.” In 2015, the Hotel Sheraton was purchased; a milestone moment marking Liz’s long-anticipated official entry into the family business, with valuable contributions from the fourth generation, Liz’s son, Ollie, who is part of the management team - wife Laura also supporting sales and marketing. Together, the hotels employ around 150 dedicated staff and generate a combined annual turnover of around £8.5 million with 10% of turnover reinvested each year into annual refurbishments. Liz wasted no time in making her mark in the local hotel scene, adding to the family business accolades, most recent of which was the prestigious ROSE (Recognition of Service Excellence) Award from VisitEngland. And she’s now snapping at Nigel’s heels in the TripAdvisor Number three spot, the Sheraton’s highest ranking to date. Liz said: “Providing a high level of customer service was instilled into us from a very young age but in recent years it's been more about delighting the customer by anticipating their needs, simply being proactive as well as reactive." “Our little secret is that hospitality begins with the team and we care about our team just as much as we do about the guests. We try and anticipate their needs too and help in whichever way we can so our family values of kindness and generosity are show to each other, to our guests, and to our very valuable team members.” Indeed, both Liz and Nigel claim it’s their family-led approach and dedication to outstanding customer and staff care that most drives their success. Liz said: “One of the biggest advantages of being a family business is the ability to make thoughtful decisions quickly. There’s a shared commitment to protecting the legacy and ensuring the business remains sustainable; not just financially, but also in terms of its people, its community relationships and its environmental impact. Decisions are made with a sense of stewardship, not just strategy." “It’s this blend of leadership, loyalty, and heart that sets the business apart and it's why so many guests, staff, and partners feel part of something much more than just a hotel stay.” Nigel added: “Since acquiring the hotels the Seddon family has proudly upheld a tradition of hospitality rooted in warmth, trust, and community spirit. Succession planning is not a formal process; it’s a lived experience." "From an early age, the next generation has been immersed in the business; from Liz and I helping in the restaurant growing up, to my daughters, Sophie and Emma, working in reception during their school holidays."   “All have been encouraged to explore the business and its values, learn the ropes and identify whether a passion for hospitality emerges. Leadership is never handed down or forced; it is nurtured through mentorship, shared responsibility and earned respect.” “We follow customer feedback very closely. The best advice you'll get is from your own guests or your own staff, which is as true now as it was when I started out. We're always striving for 100% customer and staff satisfaction.” Irene said: “I was so pleased both Nigel and Liz entered the family business and enjoy it immensely and for the last 10 years I have my grandson Oliver in the business too." “I realised at the age of 88 how lucky I am to be able to discuss the businesses with them and help them make decisions. We are all very lucky that we have got each other.” Ultimately, say Liz and Nigel, the legacy is about people - the guests, the team and the family. By instilling pride, purpose, and a shared vision, the Seddons have built more than a business; they’ve created a living legacy that they believe will stand the test of time for generations to come.

Over 150 guests enjoyed a memorable evening at The Law Society in the heart of legal London when they raised over £34,000 to help The Hygiene Bank charity play a major role in beating the stigma of hygiene poverty. The ever-popular annual fundraiser hosted by multi-award-winning office and commercial cleaning company Cleanology has established such a strong following that it has now raised over £151,000 in its first five years. Dominic Ponniah, event organiser and Co-Founder of Cleanology, said: “Yet again our many friends and colleagues in the FM industry have been incredibly generous to ensure this event remains as successful as ever. Sadly hygiene poverty remains a real blight on society but this event is proof that there are many determined and spirited people who want to play a part in beating it." Ruth Brock, CEO of The Hygiene Bank, said: “Cleanology’s continued commitment to ending hygiene poverty is truly inspiring. Partnerships like this show what’s possible when businesses and social causes come together with a shared purpose. Cleanology's annual fundraiser is a powerful example of collective action in practice, and, thanks to everyone's generosity, we will be able to make a real difference to thousands of people across the UK who are struggling to afford basic hygiene products."  "I am so grateful to Dominic and all his wonderful team at Cleanology, and to the sponsors who made this event possible. They truly make me believe that hygiene poverty is solvable, if we choose to, and if we do it together.” The event – held on October 9 at the Grade II iconic venue in Chancery Lane – was sponsored by field service management software company BigChange, insurance brokers Brown & Brown, janitorial suppliers and distributors Bunzl, cleaning and hygiene products manufacturer Evans Vanodine, cleaning supplies and solutions provider Foremost, sustainable hygiene solutions firm Katrin, global manufacturer and provider of personal care products, Kimberly-Clark and washroom services firm Liberty Hygiene. The exterior of the venue, The Law Society, was also illuminated in yellow as part of the charity’s National Hygiene Week campaign to focus attention on hygiene poverty. At the fundraiser, guests enjoyed drinks, bowl food and live music by talented vocal harmony trio The Bluebirds. The event also took a different format this year, with a panel discussion, chaired by Dominic Ponniah, and featuring Laura Yorke from Bunzl, a corporate supporter, Phil Smith of Indigo FM, a volunteer, and Lorraine Waters, a volunteer and trustee of The Hygiene Bank, as well as their CEO Ruth Brock. The evening saw competitive bidding for auction and raffle prizes such as a golf day for four in Hampshire, a boat trip for 10 people on the River Thames hosted by networking group The Hill Club, a guided wine tour and tasting experience for two at Chapel Down Winery in Kent and two tickets to the Stratus Hospitality Suite at Tottenham Hotspur FC’s stadium in North London. The Hygiene Bank is a people-powered charity and social movement, committed to tackling hygiene poverty in communities across the UK. It believes that no one should have to choose between staying clean and meeting other basic needs. Through their network of projects, they provide essential hygiene products to those experiencing poverty or crisis. Cleanology – headquartered in Vauxhall, South West London, and with regional offices in Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol and Scotland – runs campaigns throughout the year to raise funds and awareness for hygiene poverty and staff participate in fund-raising opportunities such as marathons.

A young entrepreneur from Coatbridge and his dad have attracted 3,000 customers in their first two months of trading after they opened a new mobile food business in September. The pair accessed expert start-up advice and support from Business Gateway to help get their business off the ground. Specksy’s Spuds, founded by Reece Muir and his dad Matthew in September 2025, serves up freshly prepared loaded baked potatoes from their fully equipped food van, with toppings including butter chicken, macaroni cheese, steak and garlic chilli chicken. Reece previously worked in sales and is also a musician and Matthew had previously worked in garages. Based in North Lanarkshire, the business aims to bring hearty, home-style comfort food to local communities and events, with a focus on quality ingredients and friendly service. The van travels to a variety of different locations across North Lanarkshire and has not yet been to the same location twice. Since launching, Specksy’s Spuds has already gained positive feedback from customers and is planning to expand its presence at local markets, community events and festivals across the region. The business currently operates three days a week and the pair sell out the van most days. Reece is also focussed on promoting the business on social media, sharing videos of the menu, any specials, customer feedback and behind the scenes. His main inspiration is Spud Bros in Preston, which has seen great success on social media. Reece, 25, had a clear idea for his business but wasn’t sure where to start. He made use of Business Gateway’s Planning to Start tool, which helped him identify the key steps needed to launch successfully and connected him with business adviser, Iona Collings, who helped him turn his idea into a reality. Through Business Gateway, Reece received tailored start-up support including advice on writing a business plan, financial forecasting, registering his food business and ensuring food safety compliance. He also learned about the licences and regulations required for running a mobile food operation. Reece and his dad also attended Business Gateway Lanarkshire’s in-person Start-Up Bootcamp, which gave them a solid understanding of how to plan, manage and promote their business effectively. Reece Muir, co-founder of Specksy’s Spuds, said: “I had the idea for Specksy’s Spuds for a while but didn’t know where to begin. Business Gateway really helped me break everything down into clear, manageable steps. From building a business plan to sorting out all the licences and safety checks, Iona guided me through every part of the process." "The Start-Up Bootcamp was also brilliant - I found out so much useful information that’s helped me get the business off the ground. It’s been amazing to welcome so many customers and I can’t believe the response we’ve had. I can’t wait to see where it goes next.” Iona Collings, Business Gateway adviser, said: “Reece has been fantastic to work with. He came to us with a great idea and the enthusiasm to make it happen. By engaging fully with the support on offer and putting in the work, he’s been able to turn his vision into a real business. It’s always inspiring to see young people in Lanarkshire taking the leap into starting a business and Specksy’s Spuds is a brilliant example of that.”

Celebrated commercial painting and decorating contractor Bagnalls – who are based in Cleckheaton and have office across Yorkshire - has enjoyed further awards success at the 22nd Apprenticeship and Skills Awards 2025 regional heats. The company has been named Yorkshire and the Humber winner of The Aptem Equality Diversity and Inclusion – Employer of the Year Award 2025. A great accolade for Bagnalls, this award champions businesses that truly embody the spirit of social justice and enable social mobility. It recognises company efforts to support those who are disadvantaged or under-represented, providing them with a positive environment, within which they can achieve. Apprenticeship accessibility is vital in this space, with recent ONS statistics highlighting a particular skills gap of 100,000+ vacancies in the construction, manufacturing and electricity industries in the first quarter of 2025 alone. Of those apprentices starting their course with Bagnalls in 2024, 62% were aged 16-18. However, recent surveys reveal that a huge 60% of young people feel that entry-level jobs are not inclusive of junior-level skills and are designed to keep them out of the job market. This is especially true for young women, who also face a lack of role models within the sector, with women making up just 4% of the painting and decorating industry. Bagnalls is making great strides in this area, with an impressive 29% of their 2024 apprentice intake identifying as female. Bagnalls’ Leeds branch team is currently 22% women, a particularly significant split when compared to the industry average. This is largely due to young women joining the Bagnalls apprenticeship programme and choosing to remain with the company as their careers progress. It’s clear that Bagnalls is leading the charge as more women begin to access apprenticeships within this male-dominated industry, but work still needs to be done in order to balance the gender split. In 2024, almost 30% of Bagnalls apprentices also qualified for free school meals (FSM), highlighting an ambition amongst those from a low-income background to begin realising their earning potential straight away. Again, this intake level outstrips the national average of pupils eligible for FSM, which currently stands at 25.7%, with many of those in receipt of FSM less likely to have secure employment upon leaving school. This highlights Bagnalls’ ability to increase accessibility and financial security, in terms of encouraging apprenticeship applications from a range of economic backgrounds. Ensuring more of a focus on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) and opening up opportunities for young people can only lead to further positive outcomes. Offering accessible apprenticeships that don’t require high-level knowledge or skills, are open to talent from all backgrounds and range of qualification levels, and allow apprentices to ‘earn while they learn’ is vital. Bagnalls’ apprenticeship scheme does just this, offering inclusive opportunities and going on to produce highly skilled and successful apprentices, many of whom have won awards and gone on to fulfil high-value vacancies. The company has plenty of experience in this area – having recently celebrated its 150th anniversary, Bagnalls has been training apprentices since 1877. The traditional painting and decorating apprenticeship available during the company’s earlier years has since evolved into a truly modern offering that incorporates IT skills, an understanding of the importance of sustainability and more. The national painting and decorating contractor is also passionate about making the recruitment process as simple as possible for those applying for their first jobs. Many of the company’s apprentices are school leavers, stepping from the world of education, straight into their apprenticeship. This allows them to begin earning straight away, while also providing them with the training and support of an apprenticeship. Bagnalls’ Group People Director, Ellie Jobes, had this to say about the win: “This regional award is a fantastic honour for Bagnalls. EDI is a key focus for our business, so to have our efforts in this field recognised is brilliant." “We’re thrilled that this recognition is linked to our apprenticeship scheme. Bagnalls is very proud of our Apprentice Academy in Doncaster and our ability to help train the next generation of talent. It’s great to see enthusiastic young talent come through our doors every year and push themselves to be the best they can be." “A huge thank you to the Apprenticeship and Skills Awards regional judging panel for selecting Bagnalls and to Aptem for sponsoring this wonderful award.” The national painting and decorating contractor hopes to continue championing apprentices via its award-winning apprenticeship scheme, ensuring that young talent is identified, nurtured and given the opportunity to succeed within the world of work. Bagnalls will now progress to the final of the Apprenticeship and Skills Awards 2025 to compete for the national title in November.

Businesses across the Solent region have the opportunity to spell out exactly what sort of support – including grants – they require to drive growth. Solent Freeport is staging a series of five sector focus groups next month with businesses across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight invited to take part. The two-hour facilitated sessions will be held at the Hilton Utilita Bowl in Southampton, looking at skills, international trade, innovation, decarbonisation and business growth. Each session will focus on a key sector in the Solent region – space, maritime, defence, life sciences and clean energy. The sessions will be facilitated by specialist organisations, including Innovate UK and Maritime UK Solent, and also Professor Doug Liddle, the Chair of UK Space. Brian Johnson, chair of Solent Freeport, said: “As an organisation dedicated to driving growth and prosperity across the region, it is imperative that we know what tailored support would be most beneficial to our businesses." “These sessions will help us deliver that support where it is needed most and in the form that is the most beneficial to accelerate innovation and growth and encourage investment. This could well be in the form of grants, so we need to know what level of grant schemes would be desired and what types of activity would that funding most benefit." “It may be that businesses are interesting in starting or expanding existing exporting journeys and need support to execute their plans. Our specialists have vast experience in the sector and can help open pathways towards international partnerships.” The sessions for particular sectors are running on these dates Tuesday 11 November, 10am-12pm – LIFE SCIENCES Tuesday 11 November, 1pm-3pm – DEFENCE Wednesday 12 November 10am - 12pm – CLEAN ENERGY Tuesday 18 November 10am-12pm – SPACE Tuesday 18 November 1pm-3pm – MARITIME

HMG Paints, the UK's leading independent paint manufacturer, has played a pivotal role in an exciting discovery, confirming that a rare 1935 Aston Martin Mk2 Sports Saloon, chassis F5/585/L, was originally finished in a metallic green polychromatic paint. The finding marks one of the earliest known uses of metallic paint on an Aston Martin and is a significant piece of automotive history.   The discovery was made during a detailed investigation at HMG Paints' Manchester facility, attended by Aston Martin historian Steve Waddingham. The investigation involved a painstaking analysis of original panels from the vehicle, which had been restored. The HMG team, led by Chairman John Falder, included the HMG colour library and Classic vehicle specialists, used a variety of techniques, including film thickness measurements, detailed chemical analysis, and both visual and microscopic inspections.   The team's detailed inspection revealed a paint system consisting of a dark turkey red oxide primer, followed by coats of pale grey primer filler, and finally, several layers of the green topcoat. All layers were identified as a nitrocellulose system. After a thorough analysis of the different paint layers on the car, which included original and re-sprayed areas, the HMG team, in collaboration with Aston Martin historian Steve Waddingham, concluded with certainty that the vehicle's original finish was metallic green. "We were not expecting the polychromatic green to be the original colour, but all the evidence points to that being the case," said John Falder. "These panels are some of the very earliest HMG have ever seen finished in a metallic colour. This clearly would have been a special order when the car was constructed, and in our view, this is an extremely rare and very early use of polychromatic (metallic) paints." The collaboration between HMG Paints and Aston Martin highlights HMG's deep-rooted expertise in paint systems and its ability to provide in-depth historical analysis for classic car restoration. This project showcases HMG's commitment to supporting the preservation of automotive heritage and its role as a trusted expert in the industry.   "It’s really rather exciting!" Falder added. "It was a fascinating day and a surprising result… not what I was expecting to see." The 1935 Aston Martin Mk2 Sports Saloon, which has now been fully restored, was one of the stars of the show at the 74th Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in California. The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is the flagship of Pebble Beach Automotive Week. Commencing in 1950 and now considered to be the world’s premier celebration of the automobile, this is the ultimate event for every car enthusiast.   During the show experts critique the elegance, technical merit, and history of each car and crowds come from all corners of the globe to see icons of motor history. During this years show the 1935 Aston Martin Mk2 Sports Saloon, chassis F5/585/L was recognised with the Monatagu of Beaulieu trophy, which is awarded to the most significant car of British origin.   This is not the first time HMG have been involved in a project with a vintage Aston Martin. They previously worked with Ecurie Bertelli, the pre-war Aston Martin specialist, for a one-of-a-kind project conserving a 1934 Aston Martin MKII.   The 1934 Aston Martin MKII chassis number 402, affectionately known as “Hedgehog” was preserved using a special stabilising and sealing solution developed by HMG that allowed the Ecurie Bertelli team to seal the worn paint work and prevent further degradation. This unique approach allows 402 to ensure its vintage charm and character remains for years to come with its original paint work.