Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce a new partnership with Nuffield Health - which will see the Bulls utilise their impressive facility in Shipley for post-game recovery sessions throughout the 2025 season. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in the club’s commitment to player welfare and performance, ensuring that players receive top-tier care to maintain peak condition throughout the demanding rugby league season. “We are thrilled to partner with Nuffield Health for the 2025 season,” said Bradford Bulls’ Commercial Manager Ian Stafford, who is sponsored by La Romantica Beds. “Ensuring our players have the best possible recovery support is crucial to maintaining high performance levels, and Nuffield Health’s cutting-edge facilities will play a key role in this.” Bradford Bulls Head of Strength & Conditioning, Nick Botten, who is sponsored by Sondad, also emphasized the importance of recovery, stating: “Having access to a pool for recovery is a game-changer for our players. Hydrotherapy helps reduce muscle soreness, improves circulation, and speeds up recovery after intense matches. Ensuring our squad recovers properly is essential for maintaining performance levels week in and week out.” Rob Gibson, Multi-Site General Manager added, “We are delighted to be working with the Bradford Bulls, providing them with top-tier recovery support throughout the 2025 season. At Nuffield Health, we are passionate about supporting our community in their Health and Wellbeing journeys, and we look forward to helping the team stay in peak condition for theirs.”

There’s something undeniably comforting about Greek food. Whether it’s the smoky aroma of grilled meats, the tangy burst of feta cheese, or the flaky, honey-soaked layers of baklava, Greek cuisine offers a delicious blend of fresh ingredients, bold flavours, and time-honoured traditions. In recent years, Britain has developed a growing appetite for this Mediterranean favourite, with Greek restaurants, delis, and street food stalls popping up across the country. From high-end dining to casual souvlaki wraps, the UK has embraced Greek food like never before. For years, Greek cuisine in Britain was mostly limited to family-run tavernas tucked away in city neighbourhoods. These cosy spots, often run by Greek immigrants, served up traditional dishes like moussaka, pastitsio, and lamb kleftiko to those in the know. While these restaurants built a loyal following, Greek food remained somewhat overshadowed by other Mediterranean cuisines such as Italian and Spanish. But that has changed dramatically. Today, Greek food is firmly in the spotlight, thanks in part to the rise of modern Greek restaurants that put a contemporary twist on classic dishes while staying true to the essence of Greek hospitality. London, always at the forefront of culinary trends, has seen a surge in stylish Greek eateries. Places like Mazi in Notting Hill and Meraki in Fitzrovia have redefined Greek dining, offering sophisticated takes on traditional dishes using high-quality ingredients. At these restaurants, you might find taramasalata made with white fish roe rather than the bright pink supermarket version, or souvlaki skewers served with innovative sides like smoked aubergine and pomegranate molasses. Meanwhile, The Real Greek, a popular chain, has brought accessible, authentic Greek food to high streets across the UK, introducing more people to the joys of meze dining. One of the biggest drivers of Greek cuisine’s popularity has been the explosion of street food. Greek souvlaki wraps, stuffed with tender grilled meat, fresh salad, and a generous dollop of tzatziki, have become a festival and market staple. Vendors like The Athenian have taken this simple yet satisfying dish and made it a favourite among busy Londoners looking for a quick but delicious meal. Halloumi, once a niche ingredient, is now a mainstream favourite, found in everything from burgers to brunch dishes. Grilled until golden and slightly crispy, it’s often paired with honey or pomegranate for a sweet-savoury contrast that has won over British palates. Greek food’s appeal goes beyond its incredible flavours; it’s also widely recognised as one of the healthiest cuisines in the world. The Mediterranean diet, which heavily features olive oil, fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, has long been praised for its health benefits. With an increasing number of Brits looking for nutritious yet satisfying meals, Greek cuisine ticks all the boxes. Dishes like grilled fish with lemon and herbs, chickpea stews, and Greek salads packed with olives and tomatoes offer both nourishment and indulgence. Another reason for the rise of Greek cuisine in the UK is the growing demand for authenticity. As more people travel to Greece and experience its vibrant food culture first-hand, they return home eager to recreate those culinary memories. Supermarkets have responded by stocking Greek essentials like feta, Kalamata olives, and filo pastry, making it easier than ever for home cooks to experiment with Greek recipes. Cooking shows and food bloggers have also played a role, showcasing the versatility of Greek dishes and encouraging more people to try making them at home. Despite its increasing presence, Greek cuisine in the UK is still evolving. While classics like moussaka and souvlaki are well-loved, lesser-known regional dishes are starting to make their way onto menus. Restaurants and delis are introducing Brits to delicacies such as dakos, a Cretan rusk salad topped with tomatoes and mizithra cheese, or fava, a silky yellow split pea purée from Santorini. Greek desserts, too, are gaining popularity beyond baklava, with treats like galaktoboureko (a custard-filled filo pastry) and loukoumades (Greek-style doughnuts) becoming firm favourites. The future of Greek cuisine in the UK looks bright. As more chefs and restaurateurs bring their own creative spin to Greek flavours, the variety and accessibility of Greek food will only continue to grow. Whether it’s a casual lunch of souvlaki and pita, a fine-dining experience with modern Mediterranean flair, or a home-cooked meal inspired by Greek island holidays, Britain’s love affair with Greek food is here to stay.

An East Staffordshire football club is on target for an ambitious goal of launching three new youth teams next season thanks to support from digger giant JCB. Rocester FC Juniors, which shares its home village with JCB World Headquarters, is blazing a trail for girls and mixed football and appealing for new players to join its ranks. After launching three new girls’ teams last year, the club is now aiming to grow its girls and mixed teams at under six, seven and eight age ranges ready for September. The squads will join more than 250 young players who are proudly pulling on smart new Rocester Juniors shirts, after JCB supported the club’s rolling two-year kit replacement programme, totalling £5,000. It has seen all 14 teams from age six to 16 presented with ultra-modern design match kits. Rocester Juniors has teams training weekly at Denstone College, Thomas Alleynes High School, Oldfields Hall Middle School, Abbotsholme and Picknalls First School, Uttoxeter. Home matches are played across the East Staffordshire area, including at the JCB Lakeside pitches, while girls teams play in the Derby league. Club Chairman Russell Mason said: “As a club we are passionate about making football accessible to all, which is why we are continually adding new teams and supporting youngsters to realise their dreams and create as many opportunities as possible.” Russell added: “Having a kit the team are excited to wear is important and gives them a sense of pride in the club as they play each week. Every shirt is emblazoned with the JCB logo, which looks really powerful and we so are grateful for the support JCB has shown to make this happen. We believe in positive, supportive coaching and try to develop youngsters as footballers, team-players and as people. It doesn’t matter if you have never played before or have been playing for a while, we look to give everyone the same opportunity to thrive.”

A rare strip of riverside land on the banks of the River Trent in West Bridgford is up for sale. The approximately 30-metre strip of land close to Wilford Suspension Bridge is situated between the path that runs along Wilford Embankment and the River Trent. Subject to appropriate planning permission, the 2,500 sq ft parcel of land, to the north west of 20 Wilford Lane, could house a mooring pontoon and decking. It is available freehold with vacant possession and is on the market with Auction Estates, with a guide price of £20,000 plus. Nathan Haines, surveyor and sales broker at Auction Estates, said: “This is an extremely rare opportunity to acquire a riverside site fronting the River Trent, less than half a mile from the bars, restaurants, shops and other facilities available in the centre of West Bridgford, and close to the bustling area around Trent Bridge." “It is also within walking distance of three iconic sporting stadiums – Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, the City Ground and Meadow Lane – and just a short drive from Nottingham city centre." “It is quite unusual for our auctions to feature land in such a prime location with potential for mooring, subject to the appropriate consents. This really is a rare opportunity for investors and owner occupiers.” The auction takes place on Thursday 17 April 2025 at 2.30pm at Trent Bridge Cricket Ground.

The four farmer founders of The Green Farm Collective (TGFC) have teamed up with Eurostar Commodities to develop a line of flours produced using regenerative farming practices. RISE RE:GEN Flour has the strapline Farmed with Nature and its launch underpins the intent of TGFC, to encourage the food industry to value sustainable farming both financially and ethically. The farmers behind TGFC, Jake Freestone, Angus Gowthorpe, Michael Kavanagh and Tim Parton, formed the regenerative farming community four years ago to support other growers in their regenerative practices, promising to create new and lucrative end markets for TGFC members. Jake Freestone commented: “The Eurostar team has embraced the importance of the farming approach that our members practice centred around soil health, reduced environmental impact and improving farmland biodiversity." “They also recognise that the way we farm should be rewarded and we couldn’t have asked for more. They have developed an exclusive partnership and a bespoke brand of TGFC flours which they sell to their influential customers for pizza, bread and other wheat-based foods, and also pay us a fair and reflective price for our crops. It really is a true and respectful partnership and one that demonstrates Eurostar’s progressive leadership in the food supply chain.” Eurostar Commodities is a family-run importer and supplier of ingredients to manufacturers, wholesalers, foodservice, retailers, and consumers across the UK, Ireland, northern Europe, the Middle East, and Iceland. The launch of the RISE range fits a growing interest from their customers for environmentally conscious ingredients. Diane Crabtree, Sales Manager at Eurostar commented: “The market for regeneratively farmed flours is growing because consumer demand is growing, so it is a proud moment for our business to partner on such an important range." The flour is sold in 16kg paper sacks as Strong or All Purpose Flour. As yet, a standard for Regenerative Farming hasn’t yet been created, however, TGFC recognised the importance ensuring verification of both the farmer and their practices. Jake adds: “We have teamed up with Food Integrity Assurance, an audit body, to establish under our own set of standards, including carbon and environmental baselining, diversity in crop rotations, farmland biodiversity policies, a nutrient management plan and minimal soil disturbance practices. We also have a partnership with Trinity Agtech’s Sandy software to record and report on members’ farming interventions to give full transparency to our farming methods.” "Beyond the standards and the new flour range, Jake says that TGFC is having an important impact, “our farmer members from around the UK and Europe are at different stages of their regenerative journeys and our community is one that shares and supports to give advice. Collectively we are creating a credible, traceable and fully audited set of practices which gives confidence to partners like Eurostar as well as their all-important customer base.” The Green Farm Collective won the 2023 BBC Food and Farming Awards Farming for the Future category with Farming Today and The Archers. Top Photo:  (L to R): Tim Parton, Michael Kavanagh, Angus Gowthorpe, Jake Freestone

Property consultancy Vail Williams is padding up to support Middlesex Cricket’s disability squads for the 2025 season. The firm will have its logo featured on the neck collars of the county’s three disability playing shirts for all games after signing a sponsorship agreement. Middlesex Cricket’s three disability squads play in the D40 Quest League, the D40 Pursuit League, and the Super 9s League. The focus for Middlesex’s D40 First Eleven will be the defence of their national Quest title. The season begins with an away fixture against Essex at Harlow CC on Sunday, April 27. There is also a special fixture on June 25 when they make their debut on the main square at Lord’s, playing in a T20 fixture against an MCC Select XI as part of MCC’s annual Disability Day. Vail Williams, an active property adviser in London for more than two decades, has a team of 20-plus experts working from its base just off Soho Square. Varun-Dev Gudka, Partner based in London, said the sponsorship was driven by the firm’s ongoing commitment to helping members of society in the community in which it lives and works as well as personal passion for the game. “We had no hesitation in demonstrating our support for the Middlesex Cricket by signing up to sponsor the disability squads. It was an easy decision for us to partner with such a worthy cause." “Not only are we able to give something back to the area we serve but also help raise awareness of the excellent work Middlesex Cricket carries out in our city to benefit so many people." “We are looking forward to supporting and engaging with Middlesex and the players in various ways over the course of the season, particularly as they face county rivals such as Hampshire, Sussex and Surrey, where Vail Williams also has well-established offices.” Vail Williams is among nine new commercial partners backing Middlesex Cricket’s disability squads this year, including menswear provider Charles Tyrwhitt, legal services firm William Sturges Solicitors, diversity and inclusion consultant Convergent Consulting and Jaguar Land Rover retailer Sytner JLR Coventry. The others are Kerry London, New Generation Publishers, HK Electrical Services and GRS Group. Managing Director of Middlesex in the Community, the former England bowler Angus Fraser, said: “I would like to personally thank all our sponsors for their support and welcome them all to the club. It is hugely gratifying to see so many organisations wanting to get involved in what we do." “The generosity of these companies will allow us to further improve the experience of playing for Middlesex. It will also allow us to invest in projects and programmes that enable anyone with a disability to enjoy the benefits of playing or being involved in cricket.” Middlesex’s Disability Head Coach, Andy Hill added: “We are enormously grateful to each and every one of our new sponsors for their support over the coming season and can’t wait to work closely with them as new members of the Middlesex family." “To have secured nine new partners this season is incredible, and I couldn’t be more appreciative of their backing, which will go a huge way to us achieving more success as a group. We are extremely proud of all that we have achieved in recent seasons and are looking forward to building on that with the support of our new partners.” Middlesex Cricket covers all cricket activity in the county and brings together both Middlesex County Cricket Club (the professional game) and the Middlesex Participation Team (responsible for the development and growth of the recreational game within Middlesex). Since the club’s official foundation in 1864, Middlesex County Cricket Club has been one of the most successful and well-respected first-class counties in the English domestic game, playing at the Home of Cricket, Lord’s Cricket Ground, in St John’s Wood, London since 1877. Vail Williams’ property experts provide a range of advisory services for occupiers, landlords, investors, developers and lenders across London. Services provided cover everything from investment expertise and business rates support to lease advice and property valuation.

Farm business confidence has reached historically low levels, bypassing the record lows set last year, and this all before Defra delivered another hammer blow to farmers through the precipitous closure of Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) applications. The former government received deep criticism when last year’s Farmer Confidence Survey showed that short-term confidence had deteriorated to -25 and mid-term confidence to -22. This year, short-term confidence has decreased by another 10 points to -35 and mid-term confidence has dropped by 16 points to a worrying -38. This has created a new all-time low since the survey began 15 years ago. If the survey were taken again today, it’s expected this would drop even further after Defra’s sudden announcement slammed the door shut for thousands of farmers who were planning to access the SFI scheme. This comes on top of an ongoing cashflow crisis and a bombshell Budget last October which announced the family farm tax – again unexpected - the increase in employer National Insurance (NI) Contributions, and the acceleration of the Direct Payments phaseout. Each of these another huge kick in the teeth, given the replacement scheme is now unavailable to so many farm businesses. The survey also showed that, for the first time ever, investment across the board is drying up with farmers and growers not able to make investments in key areas such as machinery, infrastructure and energy efficiency, creating a significant barrier to growth. The SFI news will only exacerbate cashflow issues and farmers’ capability to invest. NFU President Tom Bradshaw said: “When our Confidence Survey results came out last year, we thought we’d hit rock bottom. When we were initially looking to release our survey results today, we knew we’d hit a new all-time low. Now, with another hammer blow dealt to the farming sector without warning last night, I’m realising there is no such thing as rock bottom as far as Defra is concerned." “Where is the transparency? Where is the accountability? Last year Defra closed applications for Capital Grants, grants that are used for important environmental work such as tree planting, buying equipment to improve air and water quality, or habitat restoration, with no notice, leaving farm businesses in the lurch. Last year this government promised us they wouldn’t introduce a tax on family farms upon death, but they did, leaving many farming families without hope for the future. And now they are taking away Direct Payments – faster than they originally promised – leaving farmers with no alternative scheme to plug the financial hole they find themselves with." “No business can be expected to plan, invest, grow and increase its economic contribution, whilst hitting government environmental targets, when it is being slammed time and time again by policies which strip away its profitability." “Business confidence was already low. Now we are in situation where the farming community has no confidence in the government.” The fact that both confidence and investment are falling across the board raises serious questions about the future of homegrown food production, at a time when geopolitical tensions are high, and the government has repeatedly stated the importance of food security to our national security. The survey revealed that: 85% of landowners believe the reforms to IHT will increase their liability. Of these, 32% say they plan to reduce investment to mitigate this increase. 88% of respondents said the phasing out of Direct Payments would negatively impact their business. 76% of employers expect to be impacted by the increase in employers NI contributions. Because of this increase, 65% said they expect a reduction in profits and 43% expect to reduce investment to offset these additional costs. Regulation and legislation also remain a key issue, with 84% of respondents saying they will continue to negatively impact their businesses. In its newly launched Blueprints for Growth , the NFU has provided solutions that, if adopted, would help reverse this collapse in farmer confidence and enable much-needed investment in the future of British food and farming. NFU President Tom Bradshaw added: “As I told delegates at NFU Conference just a few weeks ago, the focus remains steadfast on providing solutions for our industry. These Blueprints set out a detailed vision of what’s needed to underpin sustainable, profitable farm businesses, while producing food for 70 million people and protecting and improving the great British countryside." “If government wants to re-build confidence, work with us, not against us. We are ready and waiting to help set a new brighter course for the UK farming sector.”

Britain’s manufacturers have hit the buffers as a wave of increasing employment taxes and wider business costs bite hard, as well as worries of a global trade war according to new figures in a major survey published today by Make UK and business advisory firm BDO. Following the final quarter of last year when business confidence slumped at the fastest rate since the pandemic, this has now translated into a fall in both output and orders, with output falling in the first quarter of the year for the first time in a decade, a highly unusual occurrence according to Make UK. Key Findings: Output and orders contract Domestic orders decline while growth in export orders slows Half of companies freeze recruitment, more than a quarter consider job cuts Third of companies delay investment Manufacturing forecast to contract in 2025 Impact On Employment In response, companies are freezing recruitment and considering redundancies, while investment plans are being delayed and, in some cases, cancelled altogether. As a result, Make UK is now urging the Government to consider measures to mitigate these actions, in particular reform of the business rates system to remove disincentives to invest and, policies to aid industrial decarbonisation and fix the broken skills system. Furthermore, according to Make UK it is now essential that Government brings forward a comprehensive and fully funded modern, long term industrial strategy which has advanced manufacturing at its heart. This must be aligned across Government with a defence industrial strategy as well as energy, trade and skills strategies to demonstrate to business and foreign investors that there is joined up thinking on how to grow the economy. Commenting, Verity Davidge, Policy Director at Make UK, said: “Manufacturers feel like they are currently wading through treacle, facing barriers and increased costs being imposed on them at every turn. However, there is no more resilient a sector in the economy and, just as they have done in the past, they will find ways to adapt." "The one light at the end of the tunnel is the prospect of a modern, long term industrial strategy which will enable them to plan for the future with confidence in a supportive policy environment. But, this cannot be a case of more jam tomorrow, come the summer it has to be a case of jam today.” According to the Manufacturing Outlook survey, the balance on output fell sharply to -1% from +20% in the last quarter, with total orders following a similar pattern down to -6% from +7%. Export orders are no longer shielding a weak domestic market, falling to +1% from +10% in Q4, while UK orders turned negative at -7%, down from 0%. Recruitment intentions also turned negative at -3%, down from +8% in Q4, while investment intentions, although positive, weakened to +5% from +10%. Richard Austin, Head of Manufacturing at BDO, added: “Against a backdrop of economic uncertainty, the manufacturing sector has relied heavily on exports to help protect it from other downward trends. As this data shows, we cannot be complacent - our manufacturers are resilient but they’re not invincible. While there are pockets of investment and opportunity, output levels are down across the board and, in order for manufacturers to continue their push on growth, they need targeted support from government, whether that be reducing complexity, streamlining trade or boosting access to capital.” In response to this much weaker picture, a separate survey by Make UK in response to the measures announced in the Autumn 2024 Budget showed almost half of companies (48%) are freezing recruitment and four in ten (41%) will reduce planned pay increases. Worryingly, around a quarter (27%) are considering redundancies. Furthermore, a third of companies (34%) are delaying investment plans, while 15% have cancelled planned investments altogether. As well as the impact on companies from increased employment costs, with more than 9 in 10 companies expecting them to increase this year, the survey also showed the scale of increases hitting companies from other business costs. Almost three quarters of companies (70%) expect their energy costs to go up this year, with a similar number (71%) seeing their logistics and transportation costs go up. Almost eight in ten (79%) are seeing raw material costs increase. Make UK is now forecasting that manufacturing will contract by -0.5% in 2025, down from a forecast of -0.2% in the last quarter, before growing by 1% in 2026. GDP is forecast to grow by 1% in 2025 and 1.5% in 2026. The Manufacturing Outlook survey of 306 companies was carried out between 13 and 27 February. The Budget impact survey of 256 companies was carried out between 28 January and 11 February.

This Neurodiversity Celebration Week (March 17-23rd), the founder of upcycling company Green Doors has stories to tell about how dyslexia and ADHD have proven invaluable in battling a wasteful industry Joseph Holman’s sustainable door and window business Green Doors is an multi award-winning company that turns over close to £2M. But Holman’s journey was never clearcut. Diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia at the age of seven, Holman struggled at school. “Looking back, all my childhood I assumed I wouldn't get anywhere due to my disabilities." “I was diagnosed with dyslexia and ADHD when I was seven years old and struggled throughout school, being given extra time in exams and attending special lessons." “I later realised that, mentally, this didn't give me a good start. It was programmed into me that I was considered not as intelligent as others and I always doubted myself on decisions I made.” In spite of these early struggles, Holman now attributes his business success to his neurodiversity. “My dyslexia and ADHD have given me the ability to see the bigger picture, think differently and take risks,” he said. “From an early age, I would spot opportunities where others wouldn’t." “In year seven, I was selling sweets and chocolate bars to my classmates and had days where I made £20-£30 profit." “Later, I would sell items for people in my town and was known as ‘The eBay King’ taking a percentage cut of the sale. Soaps to statues, baths to bikes, you name it, I had sold it and had a story to go with it.” Over time, Holman’s buying and selling successes grew and by the age of 16 he had saved up around £20,000 from all of his side hustles. But it was while walking past a skip in 2014 that Holman was inspired to set up Green Doors. “Walking past a skip, I noticed a set of modern, white uPVC French doors. I dug them out, loaded them onto my mate's plumbing van, cleaned them up and advertised them on eBay. They sold the next day for hundreds of pounds.” Holman spent days scouring skips for more doors but soon found a “mountain of doors and windows destined for landfill” outside a store. He bought the lot from the owner. With this stock secured, Holman founded his company with a plan to disrupt a wasteful industry. “All my childhood I thought I won’t be successful due to my disabilities, but I realised these are what got me to where I am today." “These days, I’m not motivated by money, instead I’m determined to change the behaviour of the construction industry." “Last year, we rescued over 3,000 items and turned over nearly two million, all from zero investment. Yes, Green Doors literally grew out of a skip and it’s because I was able to see value where others couldn’t." “Without these ‘superpowers’ as Sir Richard Branson would say, I wouldn't have had the ability to dream, see the bigger picture and confidence to take risks. It’s my neurodiversity that’s been the secret to my success.” Neurodiversity Celebration Week 2025 is from 17th March - 23rd March and the project ‘aims to bring about worldwide neurodiversity acceptance, equality and inclusion in schools and workplaces.’

Responding to the news that, without warning, Defra has now stopped all SFI application, the NFU has brought into question the department’s transparency and its ability to deliver the agricultural transition promised. NFU President Tom Bradshaw said: “This is another shattering blow to English farms, delivered yet again with no warning, no understanding of the industry and a complete lack of compassion or care." “We have had major concerns for years about whether there was the capability within Defra to deliver the agricultural transition post-Brexit. We have warned time and time again that large parts of the SFI were poorly designed and that the department was consistently failing to deliver it." “Today’s terrible news was delivered with only 30 minutes warning to us before ministers briefed the press, leaving us unable to inform our members. There has been no consultation, no communication; there has been a total lack of the ‘partnership and co-design’ Defra loves to talk about. It is another example of the growing disregard for agriculture within the department." “The fact that ministers are actually trumpeting this as good news shows how desperately detached they are from the reality on the ground and how little they understand this industry." “It leaves us with little choice but to see Defra as a failing department. The chaos has got worse and worse and farmers are paying the price. Bad decisions, misdirection, promises broken, no transparency and yet more financial disaster for farming." “When the Chancellor dramatically accelerated the end of the old schemes for all farmers, it was on the promise that they would all be able to access the new ones, which paid them for doing environmental work. But the door has now been slammed shut for thousands of farmers, creating haves and have nots based purely on timing." “They say the money is spent, but because Defra refuses to be transparent we don’t know where it’s been spent, or whether it’s all been spent within this year." “The awful dilemma now faced by many farmers is whether to turn their backs on environmental work and just farm as hard as they can to survive. This is a loss to both farming and the environment and cannot be what was intended." “It is a bleak irony that we were set to reveal tomorrow that farming confidence in England and Wales has plummeted to its lowest level ever1 – lower than last year when those who are now Defra Ministers said it was a scandal and a disaster. “If confidence was at rock bottom and investment through the floor yesterday, tomorrow it will be gone entirely.”

There’s nothing quite like escaping the unpredictable British weather for a European getaway. Whether it’s a sun-soaked beach, a cultural city break, or a scenic countryside retreat, Europe has something for every type of traveller. From classic favourites to hidden gems, here are some of the top destinations Brits just can’t get enough of. Spain: The Timeless Favourite Spain has long been a firm favourite among British holidaymakers, and it’s easy to see why. The sun-drenched beaches of the Costa del Sol and Costa Blanca are perfect for families and sun-seekers alike, offering miles of golden sand, warm waters, and an endless supply of sangria. Meanwhile, the Balearic Islands—Mallorca, Menorca, and Ibiza—cater to all tastes, from the vibrant nightlife of Ibiza’s San Antonio to the tranquil coves of Menorca. For those looking to combine culture with relaxation, cities like Barcelona and Seville provide the perfect mix of historic charm, stunning architecture, and mouth-watering tapas. The Sagrada Familia in Barcelona and the Alcázar in Seville are must-sees, while the bustling markets and flamenco performances add to the authentic Spanish experience. And, of course, there’s Madrid, the country’s stylish capital, where art lovers can marvel at masterpieces in the Prado Museum before indulging in churros and chocolate at the famous San Ginés café. France: The Epitome of Chic For Brits who prefer a touch of elegance and fine dining, France remains an unbeatable choice. Paris, the City of Light, continues to lure visitors with its romantic atmosphere, world-class museums, and iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. Wandering through Montmartre’s cobbled streets or enjoying a coffee on the Champs-Élysées never loses its charm. Beyond the capital, the French Riviera offers a sun-soaked escape with glamorous hotspots like Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez. The Côte d'Azur’s blend of luxury, stunning beaches, and Mediterranean charm makes it a top choice for those seeking a stylish getaway. Meanwhile, for a more relaxed retreat, the rolling vineyards of Bordeaux and the lavender fields of Provence provide the perfect setting for a slower pace of life, with plenty of opportunities for wine tasting and gourmet experiences. Italy: Romance, History, and Culinary Delights Italy has a way of stealing the hearts of British travellers, offering an irresistible combination of history, culture, and some of the best food in the world. Rome, with its ancient ruins, awe-inspiring architecture, and buzzing piazzas, is always a hit. Standing in the shadow of the Colosseum or tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain never fails to impress. Florence and Venice offer equally magical experiences. The Renaissance beauty of Florence, with its world-famous art galleries and stunning Duomo, makes it a dream for culture lovers. Venice, on the other hand, is all about romance, with its charming canals, gondola rides, and breath-taking St. Mark’s Square. For those in search of a more relaxed escape, the Amalfi Coast provides picture-perfect coastal scenery, pastel-coloured villages, and delicious seafood. Meanwhile, the islands of Sicily and Sardinia offer some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, along with rich history and fantastic local cuisine. Portugal: The Laid-Back Gem Portugal has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, and it’s no wonder. The Algarve remains a favourite for families and golfers, boasting stunning cliffs, golden beaches, and an abundance of sunshine. Towns like Albufeira and Lagos offer a perfect mix of relaxation and nightlife, while quieter spots like Tavira provide a more traditional Portuguese experience. Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital, is a must-visit for city lovers. Its colourful streets, historic trams, and fantastic food scene make it one of the most exciting destinations in Europe. Just a short train ride away, the fairytale-like town of Sintra enchants visitors with its stunning palaces and lush forests. For those looking for something even more off the beaten track, the island of Madeira offers breath-taking landscapes, hiking trails, and delicious local wine. Greece: A Sun-Soaked Paradise No list of favourite European destinations would be complete without Greece. With its idyllic islands, ancient history, and unbeatable hospitality, it continues to attract Brits year after year. Santorini, with its iconic white-washed buildings and spectacular sunsets, is the ultimate romantic escape. Mykonos, famous for its lively nightlife, attracts partygoers, while Crete and Rhodes offer family-friendly resorts with beautiful beaches and fascinating historical sites. For those wanting to experience Greece beyond the islands, Athens provides a captivating mix of ancient ruins and modern energy. Climbing up to the Acropolis to see the Parthenon up close is a bucket-list experience, while the city’s bustling tavernas serve up some of the best souvlaki and moussaka you’ll ever taste. Croatia: The Rising Star Over the past decade, Croatia has become one of the most sought-after European destinations, thanks to its stunning coastline, historic towns, and crystal-clear waters. Dubrovnik, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is a favourite among British tourists, with its well-preserved medieval walls and breath-taking sea views. Split, with its lively waterfront and the ancient Diocletian’s Palace, is another top pick. For those in search of island life, Hvar and Korčula offer a mix of vibrant nightlife, stunning beaches, and picturesque old towns. Plitvice Lakes National Park, with its cascading waterfalls and turquoise lakes, is a must-visit for nature lovers. Where Will You Go Next? With so many incredible destinations to choose from, it’s no surprise that Brits continue to flock to Europe year after year. Whether it’s the golden beaches of Spain, the charming streets of Paris, the rolling hills of Tuscany, or the hidden coves of Croatia, there’s a perfect European getaway waiting for everyone. The only question left is: where will you go next?

If you’ve had occasion to take an Uber have you ever found yourself wondering why they've taken a particular route when you'd have chosen rather differently! This recently happened to me, but then I checked myself as I realised that it didn't matter, the price had been agreed in advance and we were going in the right direction - I wasn't being kidnapped! Sometimes relinquishing control is an important part of moving forward. Not everything has to be agreed in advance or micromanaged. Sometimes it’s good to let things happen organically, in their own time and way. Let others use their initiative and play their part. You'll get there, one way or another! It’s not necessary to oversee and supervise everything in life. But Some Situations Prompt A Need To Micromanage At times, stress and anxiety can cause us to be concerned that if we’re not in control things may not work out well, or may even go badly wrong. But there’s unlikely to be a catastrophe and even if things don’t work out the way we’d hoped it could actually result in unexpected opportunities, as in discovering alternative ways of doing things, getting to know each other better or building memorable moments within the team. Something that’s initially perceived as negative may well deliver valuable life lessons and experiences. A relationship breakup can cause us to feel vulnerable, exposed and determined to micromanage every decision in an effort to reinstate some control over our lives. When much in our orbit is in disarray it can be scary, unnerving and overwhelming. But instead of immediately reacting, just breathe, let things take their time and allow life to settle down. A work environment can sometimes prompt a significant desire to micromanage. There may be concerns that other people are better, faster or more efficient. Or there may be fears that errors and faults could be discovered in our way of working. A new job or promotion can cause stress and the need to prove that we’re coping well and are deserving of the trust and responsibility that’s been placed in us. Sometimes, however, Imposter Syndrome may surface and significantly threaten our confidence and self-belief. Equally, delivering a presentation can be stressful and prompt the need to micromanage and script every aspect of what’s to be said. However a presentation often works better and is more relatable to when it appears relaxed and spontaneous, rather than a tightly worded script. This allows the speaker to adapt to the mood of the audience, gauge what’s of interest and move with the flow. Allowing others to do things in their own way often provides opportunities for them to enhance their skills and experience. People who are micromanaged can become demotivated and simply do what they’re told, so losing their ability or inclination to problem-solve, be resourceful or innovative. Why bother if they’re constantly being supervised and corrected every time they stray slightly off piste! Maintaining good, regular communications with staff allows any areas where they may be struggling or feel inadequately trained, proficient and experienced to be quickly pinpointed. Staff appraisals, meet-ups and a positive approach to feedback and new ideas provides opportunities for staff to feel confident and comfortable about speaking up and saying if they have ideas or experience difficulties, have issues or need clarification or further training on an aspect of their job. Their development and subsequent success can then be encouraged and supported. Providing an environment where staff become increasingly autonomous and take on more responsibility allows them to discover new skills and become valuable team members. It can also free up space in our diary for us to do other things and maybe even take half a day off work! Staff then become empowered to become more confident as they relax into their roles, deliver new ideas, a fresh approach, better ways of working and become more engaged in their jobs. A win/win situation for all concerned! Personal relationships may become micromanaged if we feel our partner isn’t as competent or motivated as we are. They may have different priorities, or be viewed as too laid back, but it can affect the dynamics of a relationship if one person assumes the role of mother/supervisor, constantly issuing lists and instructions. Not an especially rewarding situation for anyone! Communicating how you feel, perhaps in regular honest conversations, or even through relationship counselling can help both appreciate their role in establishing a better, more evenly balanced partnership. In the home, new parents are often justifiably protective of their children. But several research projects have found that even young children, when uninterrupted and left to their own devices, are excellent problem-solvers. When children are safely supervised from a distance they’re observed concentrating and working things out for themselves, thus promoting confidence, resourcefulness and the ability to become more self-sufficient. If we ever feel challenged or in awe of someone, our confidence may be shaken. This can prompt the need to step up and micromanage. At times like that it’s important to pause and remind ourselves of our skills, experience, of our previous accomplishments, results and positive feedback, thus allowing us to calm, collect our thoughts and continue. We all have something to offer and everyone benefits when each are able to contribute their input and skills. We can then pause the need to monitor every step of the process. Often an overview is perfectly sufficient, rather than providing a detailed, micromanaged breakdown. About the Author - This piece was written by Susan Leigh, Counsellor and Hypnotherapist Find out more by visiting her website here