In Britain, the weather is more than just a daily reality—it is a national obsession. No other country in the world seems to talk about it as much, nor use it as such a reliable social tool. Whether it is the age-old cliché of discussing the rain while waiting at a bus stop or the immediate instinct to comment on an unexpected burst of sunshine, the British fascination with the weather is deeply ingrained in the national psyche. This endless dialogue is often attributed to the famously unpredictable nature of British weather. The climate is classified as maritime temperate, meaning that it is largely mild but highly changeable. Thanks to its geographical position on the edge of Europe and the influence of competing weather systems from the Atlantic, the Arctic, and continental Europe, the country rarely experiences long periods of settled weather. A single day can bring blue skies, torrential rain, and a sudden drop in temperature, making the question, “What’s the weather like?” not just small talk, but genuinely useful information. This unpredictability has shaped not only the British attitude to the elements but also the culture. Unlike countries with more stable climates, where the weather is largely taken for granted, in Britain, it is a constant presence in daily life. It affects everything from travel plans to wardrobe choices and even mood. The sheer variety means that Britons have developed a lexicon of weather-related expressions that is as varied as the climate itself. From “it’s bucketing down” to “it’s a bit parky,” the language of weather is rich, playful, and ever-evolving. Beyond its practical implications, the British preoccupation with the weather serves a crucial social function. In a society known for its reserve, weather talk is a safe and neutral way to break the ice. It is a universally shared experience, providing an easy topic of conversation with strangers, colleagues, or acquaintances. Where some cultures might default to personal questions or political debates, Britons rely on the comfort of a well-placed remark about the cold or an exasperated comment about the drizzle. The obsession is further fuelled by the media, where weather reporting is treated with near-reverence. The BBC’s weather forecasts are some of the most-watched segments on television, and newspapers devote entire columns to discussing the latest meteorological developments. A slight shift in temperature can make headlines, while the mere possibility of snow sends the nation into a state of simultaneous excitement and panic. Extreme weather events, though relatively rare, are met with both alarm and a certain thrill, as though the nation secretly relishes the drama of a good storm. This fascination is not a recent phenomenon. Historical records show that the British have been chronicling the weather for centuries, with early references found in medieval manuscripts and personal diaries. Farmers and sailors in particular relied on keen observation to predict conditions long before modern meteorology existed. Even today, the traditional belief that “red sky at night, shepherd’s delight” can indicate fair weather remains widely quoted, despite the advancements of modern forecasting technology. Climate change is also reshaping the British relationship with the weather. In recent years, the country has experienced increasingly extreme conditions, from record-breaking heatwaves to devastating floods. While the daily ritual of discussing the forecast remains largely unchanged, there is a growing awareness that these patterns are not just quirks of the climate but indicators of a shifting global reality. As the weather becomes more unpredictable, the British fascination with it is unlikely to fade—if anything, it may intensify. At its heart, the national obsession with the weather is about more than just the climate itself. It is a reflection of the British character—practical yet whimsical, reserved yet eager to connect. The weather is a unifying force, a shared experience that provides both comfort and continuity in an ever-changing world. Whether grumbling about the rain or marvelling at an unexpectedly sunny afternoon, Britons will always have something to talk about.

Applegreen, one of Ireland’s largest roadside hospitality brands, will open 20 new M&S Food stores this year, as part of a major expansion of its successful partnership with Marks & Spencer. Applegreen will make a multi-million-euro investment in the further roll out of the M&S Food partnership this year, as each of the 20 new “shop-in-shop” locations will undergo a bespoke upgrade to introduce the M&S brand. The expansion will mean that by year-end, Applegreen will be operating 41 M&S Food stores across the island of Ireland, with plans to further expand the network to 60 outlets in the medium term. Each new outlet will feature a range of more than 400 high quality M&S Food products, which will complement the existing Applegreen business and offer customers additional choice and convenience. The first of the new M&S Food at Applegreen outlets opened in Ennis earlier this month at Applegreen’s Limerick Road location. “Our partnership with M&S has been working really well over the past two years, and we’re delighted to be bringing M&S Food at Applegreen to 20 additional locations this year,” said Mark Ryan, Head of M&S at Applegreen. “The expansion of our M&S Food partnership is one of the key elements of our growth plans in the Irish market, alongside further investment in our Braeburn Coffee brand, and significant investment in new and upgraded sites. We have a hugely dedicated Applegreen team working on our plans to deliver another 20 new M&S stores this and we also have significant support from our partners in M&S.” The expansion will see Applegreen almost double its existing network of M&S Food stores. All of the new M&S at Applegreen outlets will also offer Click & Collect for M&S Clothing and selected Home product range, providing customers with the option of ordering quality clothing, home and beauty essentials online at www.marksandspencer.com/ie, and collecting their purchases at their local Applegreen. “This expansion with Applegreen is terrific news for M&S customers across Ireland,” said Eddie Murphy, Country Director for M&S in Ireland and Northern Ireland said: “We're bringing our trusted quality and delicious M&S Food range to even more locations, offering great value and convenience as part of this growing partnership with Applegreen. We’re particularly excited to be extending our Click & Collect service to these new stores, making it even easier for customers to access our clothing and home ranges.” As part of the exclusive partnership agreement, each M&S Food at Applegreen outlet carries an extensive range of M&S products, including ready meal options for lunch and dinner, quality sandwiches, fresh fruit and salads, and fresh flowers. Popular favourites such as Percy Pig sweets, M&S cookies, and Colin the Caterpillar cakes are also available in-store. Applegreen’s exclusive partnership with M&S Food, which now comprises 22 stores, complements Applegreen’s leading store proposition in the Irish market and brings the M&S Food range to a much wider customer base. Applegreen is one of Ireland’s leading retail hospitality brands. It opened its first service station in Ballyfermot in Dublin 1992 and now operates just over 500 locations at sites in Ireland, the UK and the United States, employing a total of 16,000 people. Applegreen recently unveiled plans to invest €1 billion over the next five years to expand its business in Ireland, the UK, and the United States. It has about 200 locations in Ireland, while in the UK, its Welcome Break business operates 59 sites, including 35 motorway service areas, and 31 hotels. The investment plans will see a significant expansion of the Applegreen business in Ireland, the UK and the US, as the company upgrades and revamps its existing locations, and develops new sites in each of its markets. It is also planning a major €85 million investment to further expand its EV charging networks.

Lidl has reinforced its commitment to British agriculture by bringing together over 130 farmers, food producers, and industry leaders for its inaugural Grassroots British Farming Conference. Held at Harper Adams University, the UK’s leading institution for agri-food and rural sectors, the two-day event provided a platform for collaboration, innovation, and tackling the future challenges of British farming. Key Themes: Lidl brought together over 130 British farmers, food producers, and industry leaders for its inaugural Grassroots British Farming Conference at Harper Adams University. Two-day event fostered collaboration and innovation through expert-led talks on topics such as regenerative farming and mental health, alongside an interactive “Lidl in Dialogue” session. As part of its support for the sector, the discounter is on track to invest £21bn in the British food industry by the end of FY24, exceeding its original five-year commitment by 40%. Comes after Lidl became a founding partner of £1 million Soil Association Exchange fund, an initiative supporting British farmers in implementing best practice sustainability projects. The packed agenda featured expert-led discussions on agricultural policy, regenerative farming, livestock behaviour monitoring technology, and mental health, alongside hands-on demonstrations in key areas such as soil health and butchery. “Lidl in Dialogue” – an interactive panel session – gave attendees a direct opportunity to engage Lidl’s sustainability and commercial teams and industry stakeholders, asking questions on the challenges and opportunities shaping the sector. Lidl has long been a champion of British agriculture, sourcing 100% of its fresh milk, butter, eggs, cream, pork, chicken, and beef from British suppliers. The supermarket has also taken a leading position in establishing long-term contracts and cost-of-production models, ensuring stability for suppliers in an evolving industry. In 2024 alone, Lidl pledged £1bn into the British egg industry, £1.5bn into British beef, £500m into British pork, and £70m into British root vegetables. The discounter is on track to invest £21bn in the British food industry by the end of FY24, exceeding its original five-year commitment by 40%. Richard Bourns, Chief Commercial Officer at Lidl GB, opened the conference, reinforcing Lidl’s long-standing partnership with British farmers: “With two-thirds of our products sourced from British suppliers, we recognise the critical role agriculture plays in both our business and our customers’ shopping choices. Having strong family ties to farming myself, and over 15 years working closely with British suppliers at Lidl, I know first-hand the challenges and opportunities facing the industry." "For nearly five years, our Grassroots Farming Groups have played a crucial role in developing long-term, sustainable partnerships. Events like our Grassroots Conference allow us to foster open conversations, strengthen relationships, and ensure we continue growing together in the years ahead.” As part of its commitment to sustainability, Lidl recently became a founding partner of the £1 million Soil Association Exchange fund, an initiative supporting British farmers in implementing best practice sustainability projects to reduce carbon emissions and improve soil health. The discounter has also taken a strong stance on policy issues, backing calls to pause proposed changes to Inheritance Tax (IHT) and urging the Government to consult with industry leaders to find a workable solution.

Sport has always been at the heart of British culture, from the roar of Premier League stadiums to the quiet determination of runners training in local parks. But in recent years, the landscape of sport in the UK has been shifting. Traditional leagues and institutions still dominate headlines, yet the way people engage with sport—whether as participants, fans, or even casual viewers—is evolving. The rise of grassroots movements, the growing influence of social media, and a new focus on inclusivity and mental health are reshaping the role of sport in modern British life. One of the most significant changes is the increasing emphasis on accessibility and diversity. Historically, elite sport in the UK has been dominated by a narrow demographic, but efforts to widen participation are starting to make an impact. The success of the Lionesses in women’s football has not only transformed perceptions of the women’s game but has also inspired record numbers of girls to take up the sport. Initiatives promoting disability sport, LGBTQ+ inclusivity, and diverse representation in coaching and leadership are challenging the traditional structures of British sport, making it clear that talent and passion should be the only barriers to participation. Grassroots sport has also undergone a resurgence, partly fuelled by a shift in attitudes towards fitness and well-being. The global pandemic forced many people to reconsider their relationship with exercise, leading to a boom in activities such as running, cycling, and outdoor swimming. Parkrun, a free, weekly 5k event, has become a nationwide phenomenon, attracting people of all ages and abilities who might never have considered themselves “sporty” before. The rise of community-led initiatives, from five-a-side football leagues to walking groups, is redefining sport as something that is not just about competition, but about connection, mental health, and lifestyle. At the elite level, British sport continues to thrive, but challenges remain. The financial power of the Premier League has cemented its status as the most watched football league in the world, yet concerns over club ownership, financial inequality, and player welfare persist. Rugby faces its own struggles, with several professional clubs collapsing due to financial difficulties, raising questions about the sustainability of the sport’s current model. Meanwhile, athletics and Olympic sports fight to retain funding and public interest in a crowded entertainment landscape, where global events such as the NFL and NBA are increasingly capturing British audiences. Technology and social media have also transformed the way people consume sport. Younger fans are engaging with highlights, behind-the-scenes content, and athlete personalities on platforms like TikTok and Instagram rather than watching full matches or races. Athletes themselves now have direct access to their audiences, using social media to build personal brands, advocate for causes, and, in some cases, challenge governing bodies. While this shift has brought fans closer to the action, it has also led to concerns about online abuse, mental health pressures, and the ever-growing commercialisation of sport. One of the biggest debates in UK sport today revolves around its role in society. Should elite athletes be seen as role models? Should sports governing bodies take stronger stances on social and political issues? And how can sport continue to evolve while maintaining the traditions that have made it such a vital part of British identity? These questions will shape the future of sport in the UK, as new generations bring fresh perspectives on what it means to compete, to support, and to belong. What is clear is that sport is no longer just about the final score. It is about inclusion, innovation, and the power to bring people together. Whether in sold-out stadiums or on local playing fields, the way Britons engage with sport is changing—but the passion for it remains as strong as ever.

The sights, sounds and smells of life in a British woodland have been proven to fill us with joy and boost our wellbeing, ground breaking new research has revealed. An overwhelming 90% of more than 10,000 questioned for a study supported by the Woodland Trust said their mood and general wellbeing were boosted by the wildlife in the UK’s precious woodland. The research identified specific mood-lifting traits found in woods – from spotting a squirrel scurrying up a trunk and hearing a robin’s early-morning song, to witnessing a bird of prey soaring in the sky or feeling the crunch of autumn leaves underfoot. But worryingly, the research pinpointed huge regional differences, with the majority of wellbeing hotspots found in the South East and parts of Scotland – areas with a higher proportion of woodland, especially ancient and long-established woodland cover. Ninety per cent of people said their wellbeing was boosted by woodland wildlife. These locations are rich in the variety of woodland plants, animals and fungi which people reported as being beneficial for their wellbeing, but previous studies have shown that only 7% of Great Britain’s woods are in good ecological condition. The extensive BIO-WELL research was carried out by scientists at the University of Kent, with the latest research financed by a grant from the UK’s largest woodland conservation charity, the Woodland Trust. Zoe Davies, Professor of biodiversity conservation at the University of Kent’s Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology (DICE), said: "While we know that spending time in natural environments can improve our health and wellbeing, we needed to know which species, or traits of species delivered these benefits. This compelling new research proves that nature is good for us and spending time in biodiverse, rich woodland can be a prescription for wellbeing." Key Findings Include: Ninety per cent of the representative sample of more than 10,000 people across the UK agreed that woodland biodiversity has a positive impact on their wellbeing. The richest woodlands for wellbeing were very unevenly distributed across the UK, with lower wellbeing richness of woodlands in more deprived areas. Woodland sounds, such as birds singing, the scrunch of fallen leaves or trees rustling in the breeze, were found to stimulate the most wellbeing responses (40.4%). Natural processes and behaviours (26.5%), like spring flowers emerging, triggered the second most wellbeing responses, followed by colours (23.7%), textures (7.3%) and smells (2.1%). Silver Birch topped a list of favourite trees, ahead of horse chestnut and oak. Blue Tit had the most wellbeing benefits of woodland birds, with blackbird and chaffinch following closely behind. The hotspots reflect areas where there is a high proportion of woodland cover, especially precious ancient and long-established woodland cover. Surprisingly, the research found that seasonal differences were irrelevant to the mental health benefits, meaning that, while humans may yearn for sunnier and warmer spring days after a long, bleak winter, a walk in the woods is beneficial in any weather and at any time of year. Woodland Trust chief executive Dr Darren Moorcroft said: "The Woodland Trust is evidence based. Research like the BIO-WELL findings that we have supported is not only fascinating but vital to underpin what we do as the UK’s largest woodland conservation charity, for nature and people." "We're in the grip of a biodiversity and human health crisis, so it has never been more critical to improve the health of people and the planet. Proving that it’s good for us to get out among trees and nature means the next step must be ensuring that everyone in the UK has access to vibrant, nature-rich woodland where wildlife – and people and communities – can thrive." Martin Dallimer, Professor of environmental sustainability at Imperial College London, agreed: "If we want people’s wellbeing to improve from spending time in nature, then it is essential to make sure we are maintaining and restoring high-quality forests for wildlife and people." The blue tit had the most wellbeing benefits of all woodland birds. Unequal Opportunities Maps produced by the researchers showed strong regional disparity in woodland quality for wellbeing, highlighting the importance of restoring woodland biodiversity – especially in those areas which need it most. Woodland Trust conservation adviser Sally Bavin explained: "This work shows there is stark geographical inequality across the UK in the opportunity for people to witness thriving woodland wildlife and experience the wellbeing lift that brings. This opportunity should be the right of all." "The research’s focus on the distribution of woodland quality really fits with the Woodland Trust’s mission to improve the quality of woodlands rather than just the quantity. The research maps will allow us to target conservation efforts where they are needed most." Dr Jessica Fisher, research fellow at DICE, said the regional findings were 'concerning'. She added: "The research suggests visiting a woodland rich in the variety of wildlife that supports human wellbeing is a privilege unequally distributed across society, and furthest from reach for those who could potentially benefit the most." "Society needs a much better balance of woodland to ensure we can all access the traits that are going to boost our mental health." The research drilled down to discover which species were most enjoyed for their wellbeing benefits, including the top 10 favourite trees, other plants, animals and fungi. The Top 10 Trees Were: Silver Birch Horse Chestnut Pedunculate Oak Sweet Chestnut Aspen Douglas Fir Rowan Beech Larch Sycamore

A village pub in Warwickshire has teamed up with a local foodie influencer to create four more unusual special editions of their famous pies in a week that celebrates the food favourite. Running throughout British Pie Week this week, the team at The Fleur de Lys, in Lowsonford has crafted four new recipes for visitors to try in collaboration with Chris Hardy, also known as The Fat Foodie, from Kenilworth. For this week only – or until stocks run out – diners can sink their teeth into ‘creative’ new additions to the menu, Cheese Burger Pie, Chicken Madras Pie, Butter Chicken Pie and Beef Stroganoff Pie. Co-owner Emma Woodhouse said: “We’re so excited to be joining forces with The Fat Foodie UK to bring some fresh new flavours to our historic pies during British Pie Week." "Chris has been spending time in our pie kitchen with our dedicated pie chefs, Rachel Griffiths and Gemma Hughes, to add The Fat Foodie flair to our Fleur De Lys pies and create something exciting and special for British Pie Week." "Chris pitched recipe ideas, Rachel did all the research and development and then the three of them finalised the flavours together." “With Chris’ background in burgers we of course had to create an epic Cheeseburger Pie to celebrate his food legacy, as well as a few new flavours that will be available on our specials menu for one week only. These are in addition to the 11 standard flavours you’ll normally find on our menu." “Every day is pie day here at the Fleur De Lys, but we love celebrating British Pie Week and everything great about this uniquely British cuisine." “Hospitality has had a tough time over the last few years, so we’re always looking for excuses to celebrate everything that is great about pub grub and great community spaces. It’s a real pleasure to partner our long pie-making legacy with a dynamic, modern brand like The Fat Foodie UK and we’re so excited for you to come and try our special editions.” Emma added: “To coincide with British Pie Week, we’re also launching our Pie Club Loyalty Card for the first time. You can pick one up at the bar on your next visit, so you can start collecting stamps to get your 10th pie for free!” It wasn’t until the early 20th century when The Fleur de Lys first opened as a tavern, later going on to introduce the ‘pioneering’ idea of serving food and giving rise to the now famous Fleur De Lys pies. The pub first began serving pies through the infamous kitchen hatch during the 1950s, drawing crowds from all over the Midlands to sample Mr Brookes’ finest steak and kidney or chicken and mushroom pies. The inn was mainly frequented by farmers who'd come in for a pie and a pint after they'd finished harvesting. The licensee at the time bought Emscote Mill in Warwick, from where they distributed nationwide but eventually the original pie recipe and company was sold to Pukka Pies. But, under the auspices of current landlords Emma and Nick Woodhouse, in 2018 The Lowsonford Pie Company was born and all 11 flavours of pie are now handmade and served directly from the Fleur De Lys kitchen. After spending time working as an engineer at Rolls Royce aerospace and more than 10 years working in hospitality, Chris found success with The Fat Foodie brand, going on to work with the likes of Guinness, McDonalds and KFC. He said of his latest collaboration: “After falling out of love with the kitchen but still having a passion for all things food, it was only right I started channelling my love for the industry through social media." “After moving from Birmingham to Chadwick End, the Fleur de Lys was one of the first pubs we ever visited and, from the first time I walked through their doors, I knew this pub would always have a place in my heart!" “So the fact that this week I’m collaborating with them on a menu for British Pie Week is surreal! It’s an absolute honour to work alongside such an incredible kitchen team and especially the legendary ‘Pie Ladies.’ A massive thank you to Rachel and Gemma for letting me in to their ‘pie factory.’ Fleur de Lys pies have also enjoyed great success in previous years at The British Pie Awards – with the Steak and Stilton coming second in the whole country! And this week the team are waiting to hear if they have once again reigned supreme in this year’s Awards after entering five of their recipes for judging, made up of a panel of over 160 leading experts from the retail, baking and butchery sectors.

Hilda Jackson, resident of Holbrook Hall care home in Derbyshire, celebrated her 105th birthday with a vibrant rave, complete with glowsticks, a birthday cake and a mountain of party food and decorations courtesy of Aldi. Hilda made headlines earlier this month when her unconventional birthday wish — a full-blown rave — went viral. The care home, inspired by Hilda’s zest for life, rallied to make her wish a reality. What started as a call for birthday cards quickly snowballed into an outpouring of support, with Aldi stepping up to provide a feast fit for a queen – or in this case, a rave queen. Over 100 care home residents and staff joined Hilda on the dance floor, celebrating a life that’s spanned over a century and witnessed remarkable historical events including serving her country by making munitions during WWII. The party featured a live DJ spinning “traditional party songs” from across the decades, taking requests from residents throughout the night. Guests feasted on classic sandwiches, quiche, a decadent cheeseboard, trifles, tea cakes, and of course, slices of Aldi’s iconic Cuthbert Cake (£6.49, 625g). Rebecca Vass, Care Home Manager, said: “It was absolutely magical. Seeing Hilda and the other residents dancing and enjoying themselves was truly heartwarming. This party was a testament to her incredible spirit and the power of community.” Julie Ashfield, Managing Director of Buying at Aldi UK, says: “Hilda’s incredible energy and zest for life is truly inspiring. We were honoured to contribute to her unique birthday celebration and help her mark this remarkable milestone in such a fun way.” Hilda expressed her gratitude for the unforgettable celebration: “I can’t believe everyone has done all this for me. It’s amazing – the food from Aldi, the music, the people that have come together to celebrate my birthday. I couldn’t have asked for anything more, to dance the night away!” The care home continues to encourage people to send birthday cards to Hilda, showcasing the outpouring of love and appreciation for this remarkable centenarian.

Carl Faulds , Head of Insolvency Operations at Leonard Curtis outlines seven key things to consider when it comes to the warning signs of business distress. Leonard Curtis celebrates 30 years of restructuring and turnaround advisory in its current Group structure this year so there is nothing we have not seen in terms of business distress. What we do say to business owners – if they look as though they are heading for trouble - is to look for warning signs and act accordingly. These are the seven key things to take on board: Don’t bury your head and hope problems will go away It’s very easy for any business manager to fall into the ‘hoping for the best’ trap, as business owners are naturally optimistic, and the alternative is too terrible to contemplate. Ignoring problems, however, is unlikely to be a solution, and this is more likely to lead to failure. It’s essential to take stock of the reality of the situation, including external factors such what’s happening in the market, then bring the management team or trusted advisors together to review the strategy and decide what needs to change. This needs to be done at an early stage of any distress. It is worth saying that even if a formal insolvency process becomes necessary, it doesn’t always mean the end of the road. Our focus is always forward with purpose whatever that looks like for a business owner. Forecast. And then challenge your forecast Regular forecasting particularly cashflow, is extremely important for any business, not just for survival, but also to identify opportunities for growth. Once projections have been pulled together - for both best and worst possible scenarios – they are an extremely effective guide to developing long-term strategy and managing day to day operations. Take time to regularly review and challenge your forecast to work out how you can bridge any gaps in your cash-flow. Act quickly when you see trouble ahead By knowing what to look out for - and what steps to then take - a business has more time to react. This emphasises the importance of forecasting. The the longer it takes to acknowledge difficulties, the quicker they accelerate, and the more problematic they become. If caught unawares, often by the time the ‘cashflow crunch’ hits and creditors are chasing for payment the options for remedial action reduce. It is also important to understand what your business means to you. We meet with many business owners who, when they really think about it, don’t want to spend every day fighting fires. They recognise that sometimes it is better to work for someone else. We always ask business owners what ‘good’ looks like for them and then formulate a plan to make the best of the situation. Even at the later stages, distress doesn’t always mean disaster. From time to time, we are all faced with a situation where we don’t know the immediate answer, so asking for help is the brave and correct thing to do. Ask for help Nobody should be afraid of asking for help, there is plenty of trusted support available from qualified professionals, including at Leonard Curtis and we have a very open door approach. Five years on from Covid 19, times remain challenging for many businesses, but again, a greater proportion of them can certainly be saved if issues are taken on board and specialist advice sought early. Keep talking to your stakeholders Once you have identified the cause of the distress and developed a plan to deal with the situation, communicating well with employees, customers and suppliers – the key people around your business – will help turn a distressed situation around. Without customers, you have no business. Without your suppliers you can’t make your products and without your employees you can’t deliver them. So, knowing what to say and when to say it is important and part of the guidance we can provide. This should just be a natural extension of what you would normally be doing – knowledge from communication helps understand customers’ requirements and challenges and identify early any problems with potential debtors. Being honest with employees – at the right time – to inform and reassure if you can, is fundamental – especially if there is a recovery plan involving their support or you need to manage any exits professionally. Keep lenders and creditors on side Again, this comes down to good communication from the management team. The simple advice is to engage with lenders and creditors at an early stage, especially where difficult messages need to be conveyed. And, if you make a promise to pay later as part of a deferral arrangement, stick to it, otherwise, your credibility may be damaged and confidence in your ability to manage the situation is lost. Don’t be afraid of a possible insolvency process - rescue is always the priority Confusion surrounding the insolvency process - and fear of repercussions from seeking advice from a corporate recovery professional - means that many owner managers often leave it too late to get help. Asking an insolvency practitioner (IP) for guidance does not automatically lead to the closure of the business. On the contrary, our priority - and that of most restructuring firms - is always to try to save a business if possible. Where we are consulted early enough, we can usually develop a practical strategy to put the company back on a steady footing. CVAs One of the options may be a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA) which can be suitable for many more businesses than just high street brands and large multiple retailer chains. As well as engaging creditors up-front, a CVA offers flexibility and is a helpful recovery option to address cashflow issues, provided there is an underlying viable business. Prepacks Pre-pack administrations can also be the right option in some circumstances, but they are subject to external scrutiny - particularly where business sales to connected parties are involved. Make sure you take advice from a reputable and licensed IP who can help you steer the correct path. Those who get it wrong could face ongoing challenges from Creditors including HMRC and the Insolvency Service. Family businesses tend to face an additional challenge in tough times as often there is a fear of disappointing parents, partners, siblings and children. The business owner’s personal identity is inextricably linked to the business and business distress can create stress in those personal relationships. This makes it even more important to seek confidential impartial advice at an early stage. This means you can avoid letting personal relationships cloud your judgment at an important time and making things worse. Leonard Curtis offers a range of services including negotiating with creditors, arranging additional funding as well as all the various insolvency options and are happy to provide confidential initial advice without any cost or obligation to support businesses of all shapes and sizes.

Leicestershire CCC is excited to announce batter Rishi Patel has penned a new two-year deal at Uptonsteel County Ground. The Chigwell-born opener has enjoyed a productive four seasons at Uptonsteel County Ground since his arrival from Essex in 2021, scoring 4,311 runs in 124 appearances across formats – headlined by a career-best 179 against Glamorgan at Sophia Gardens. Patel’s returns have featured nine centuries, including a Club record-equalling 41-ball hundred against Northamptonshire Steelbacks in the Vitality Blast last summer, while he also etched his name into Leicestershire’s history books in 2023 after becoming the first Fox to register a century in each format during the same season. The 26-year-old broke further records that year during a 95-run win at Lancashire, as his mammoth 161 - the highest individual List A score by a Leicestershire player against a first-class county – helped the Foxes set their highest ever 50-over total. Such achievements earned Patel his prestigious Gold Fox cap, while he also caught the attention of the England selectors, joining the Lions camp in the UAE that winter. An ever-present in Leicestershire’s 2023 Metro Bank One Day Cup-winning side, Patel was named T20 vice-captain in 2024 – skippering the side on two occasions in the absence of Peter Handscomb. Discussing his new contract, Patel said: “I’m very excited to commit my future to the Club for a further two years. I’m really looking forward to the season ahead and seeing what we can achieve together." “I want to help this Club play in Division One and challenge for more trophies in white ball cricket. With the squad we have and the environment we’ve built, those targets are certainly achievable." “Personally, I know I can provide a lot more output. I’ve enjoyed some special moments but I’m always learning and thinking about what I can do to win games for Leicestershire in all formats.” Director of Cricket, Claude Henderson, said: “Rishi has proven his ability in all forms of cricket for Leicestershire and grown year-on-year to become an integral part of our squad." “He’s someone who possesses the passion to reach his full potential and is a player that can step up to win matches when the going gets tough. Rishi’s the type of cricketer we want in our changing room, and we’re thrilled he’s committed his future to the Club.” Patel joins Sol Budinger, Roman Walker, and Alex Green in signing new deals with Leicestershire this winter, while the Club announced Netherlands all-rounder Logan van Beek as an overseas signing for the Rothesay County Championship and Vitality Blast last week.

Premiership Women's Rugby has appointed RPC as its exclusive legal services provider. The appointment builds on the firm's longstanding collaboration with PWR, having advised on the league’s formation and transition from the Rugby Football Union (RFU). As the competition continues to evolve, RPC will provide legal guidance across governance, commercial partnerships, and strategic initiatives to support the growth of women’s rugby. Genevieve Shore, Executive Chair at Premiership Women’s Rugby, said: "Elite professional sport becomes more complex each year, so PWR is delighted to have an internationally renowned legal firm at our side. We are delighted to bring them on board as a partner and as our exclusive legal services provider." "RPC’s dedication to excellence, its forward-thinking approach, and commitment to supporting initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion make them an ideal partner for PWR." Neil Brown, Partner at RPC, commented: "We are incredibly proud to continue our partnership with PWR as its exclusive legal services provider. Having supported the league from its inception, we’ve seen first-hand its rapid development and the impact it is having on the women’s game." “With the 2025 World Cup on the horizon, it’s an exciting time for women’s rugby, and we look forward to working closely with PWR to help drive the next stage of its journey." Joshua Charalambous, Partner at RPC, concluded: "Women’s sport is evolving at pace, and PWR is at the forefront of this transformation. We are delighted to bring our expertise in sports law and governance to support the league’s ambitions, its clubs, and the players shaping the future of the game." RPC’s appointment reinforces the firm’s commitment to the sports sector, where it advises a broad range of clients on legal and strategic matters to help unlock commercial opportunities, enhance governance structures, and support the long-term sustainability of professional sport.

Interestingly, several countries, most recently France and Portugal, have introduced legislation to limit the extent to which employers can expect their staff to be available outside their normal contracted working hours. Clearly no one wants to be a clock-watcher, downing tools the second home time arrives. And obviously there will be times when there’s a need to stay and complete a job, or when an emergency piece of work requires extra attention, but these times should be the exception rather than the rule. At one time there was a strong culture of dedicated, good employees being seen as the ones who arrived first and were the last to leave, even if they spent their time simply walking around the building with a folder under their arm! But as more people work from home or have less defined, more flexible working arrangements there’s not the same monitoring of how much time people actually spend in the office or on the job. In April 2024 the UK government introduced new working regulations, enshrined in The Flexible Working (Amendment) Regulations 2023, which has given employees the right to request flexible working from the start of their employment. This covers many aspects of employment, from working patterns or hours, including part time, flexi-time, term time, compressed hours and variable start or finish times. It also covers employee location, as in working from home, and employers have to respond to any such requests within two months. UKGov ONS recorded that during the period April-June 2024 the number of job vacancies was 889000, a decrease of 30000 from January-March 2024 and down by 14.5% or 151000 from the previous year, although still 11.6% or 93000 above pre-pandemic levels. However from April-June 2024 vacancies have decreased in 14 of the 18 industry sectors, so it would appear that some work-related pressure is starting to ease. On paper, the flexibility afforded by offering the option to work remotely or to choose their hours to suit their lifestyle suggests that, so long as the work’s done appropriately, employees can commit to a more flexible working arrangement to suit them best. However, the reality often means that employees feel more compelled to respond to work requests as and when required, even if it’s the weekend or they’re on holiday. One third of the office staff who undertook a nationwide YouGov 2024 survey of 1000 people said that their bosses expected them to be available for work outside their normal hours. As many as 78%, complained of being expected to reply to emails in their own time, after receiving alerts on their devices which they felt couldn’t be ignored. Interestingly, another recent survey has revealed that 19 million days of annual leave remains untaken each year in the UK. Are staff experiencing too much work-related pressure, do they suffer from imposter syndrome, are afraid of being found wanting in their absence? Whatever the answer, 54% responded that they’d replied to work emails whilst on holiday. Yes, sometimes checking-in online whilst on holiday can be beneficial, as it helps alleviate worry and can support the ongoing, smooth running of an important piece of work. However, this should only be the case during exceptional times. It can relieve pressure, by ensuring that there’s no hold-up with an important piece of work. The job’s progressing rather than playing on your mind and disturbing your time away. But, whilst you may think that it only takes a few minutes to reply to an email, it often involves more than simply logging into your email account. Clarifying your thoughts, deciding what to say, structuring your response and appropriately tailoring feedback, comments or advice is a serious matter, often requiring focus and consideration, as there could be far reaching, long-term implications for the business. It’s rarely a quick, box-ticking exercise. It’s still the case that one in five people work approximately seven hours of unpaid overtime each week, with this statistic not reflecting the long hours regularly worked by the self-employed and small business owner. Interestingly, civil servants, health care workers and teachers say they have the best work life balance, rarely being disturbed once they’ve clocked off. Craig Jackson, Professor of Occupational Health Psychology at Birmingham City University said, "It’s up to each organisation to develop rules on expectations of employees working outside normal hours and it’s always best if staff are consulted on any rules on responding to emails. Studies show people work best if they have the freedom to work the way they want to, within reason and in a way that’s healthy for them." But, whatever sector someone works in, mutual respect is an important factor, where employers lead by example and both employers and employees are ready and willing to provide some degree of flexibility. Employees need to know that they can clock off from work and spend their free time undisturbed. About the Author - This piece was written by Susan Leigh, Counsellor and Hypnotherapist Find out more by visiting her website here

Contractor Clegg Construction has handed over the new £13.5m Centre for Green Technology at Peterborough College amid praise from operator Inspire Education Group. The centre – a low-carbon project – will offer a curriculum that includes modern methods of construction, emerging construction technologies, alternative heat sources and electric vehicle technology. During the course of the build, Clegg Construction has had a close relationship with the college and local community. Ed Thomas, COO of Inspire Education Group, which runs the collage, said: “Clegg Construction has been a brilliant construction partner throughout this project. From the moment they came onboard they have worked in collaboration to deliver value engineering savings without impacting the quality of the build and have worked closely with our student body to provide learning opportunities and add value to the wider college. It’s been a pleasure to work with Clegg Construction to deliver this flagship project for IEG.” The three-storey reinforced concrete frame green technology centre, built at the college’s main campus off Park Crescent in Peterborough, has been designed to prepare future generations for careers in sustainability and green technology. Through the Centre for Green Technology, Peterborough College hopes to ensure that students possess all of the necessary skills to thrive in high-growth industries, while also developing a pipeline of new talent for green technology industries as they develop. The 2,435 square metre facility will also provide additional capacity for student numbers. MD of Clegg Construction Michael Sims said: “We are pleased to be handing over the exciting new Centre for Green Technology at Peterborough College to Inspire Education Group. This project, which will make a real difference to the future, is the latest in a significant number of educational schemes that Clegg Construction has delivered." “During our time at this busy, live site, Clegg Construction was committed to engaging with the college and its community, providing opportunities and support to students, and it is very encouraging to hear such positive feedback from the college.” During the build, Clegg Construction hosted a student on a work experience placement, took part in the Open Doors 2024 event to allow behind-the-scenes tours of the development, and hosted visits for students, representatives from Peterborough City Council and Peterborough MP Andrew Pakes, ahead of his election to parliament. The site also scored a perfect Considerate Constructors Scheme score of 45/45, with monitor Peter Johnson commenting: “Health and safety are given a high priority and there are systems/measures in place to ensure the health and safety of students, staff, visitors and operatives. The site is proactive in promoting construction as a career – of particular note is the support and encouragement given by both the company and its supply chain to a student currently on a short-term work experience placement.” Other members of the project team that built the Centre for Green Technology included consultant Gleeds, building services consultancy QODA, architects rg+p, and civil and structural engineers Stirling Maynard. Peterborough City Council provided £1.9m towards the cost of the scheme via the Towns Funds scheme, with the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority providing £2.471m.