A prestigious event at London’s House of Commons this week marked the launch of a national awards campaign to celebrate some the country’s most inspirational female achievers. The seventh – and biggest - Ladies First Professional Development Awards, will highlight success stories as well as raise funds for vital cancer equipment for local hospitals, at its awards ceremony in the summer. A host of new categories are among the 20 being contested this year, including Women of Courage; Excellence In Independent Food Businesses; Excellence In Marketing & Media; Women in Property and Inclusive Leadership/Women on Boards. The gongs are also honouring, among others, Start-up of the Year, Trailblazer/Entrepreneur; Excellence In Health and Wellbeing; Charity of the Year & Community Advocate, Family Business of the Year, Business Consultant; Excellence in professional Services; Excellence In Technology; Start-Up and Business Man of the Year. Big awards on the night will also be presented to Inspirational Women and Business Woman of the Year as well as Lifetime Achievement. Guests at The House of Commons, on February 12th, heard from host Saquib Bhatti MP, Retired MP Colleen Fletcher MBE, last year’s Business Woman of the Year Louise Adkins and hotelier Sue Cressman, whose fundraising is being supported by the awards this year. Herself a two-times cancer survivor, Sue, from Dorridge, appreciates more than most the vital service her local hospitals provide. The 65-year-old, who underwent a mastectomy ten years ago, has been continuing to give back. To date, she is estimated to have donated more than £500k worth of state-of-the-art cancer equipment to hospitals in and around the West Midlands, including biopsy machines, localizer probes, Hilotherapy machines that reduce pain after surgery, infuser kits and garden furniture for chemotherapy units. Some 21 years after believing she’d beaten the disease, she learned her cancer had returned and, in 2013, was forced to make the agonising decision to have her breast removed. It also resulted in 16 corrective surgeries due to complications due to her earlier radiotherapy. This life’s chapter also inspired Sue, in 2018, to record her own charity single, Survive, written by her husband Rick and their friend Guy Barnes. It was later adopted by top arranger and producer Ian Wherry who has worked with such musical greats as Elaine Paige, David Essex and David Cassidy. Sue said: “As a founder member of Ladies First Professional Network and an ambassador, I have seen how this wonderful Ladies Group has developed over the last decade. My business Nailcote Hall Hotel was the very first venue to hold a meeting for the group." “At this year’s launch I am pleased to announce we are raising funds for the forthcoming year to help our Local NHS Breast Cancer Units. It is our aim to purchase a specialist Mammography and Biopsy Chair for Birmingham Hospital Trust. This will give breast cancer patients a more comfortable position for this type of procedure and specialists to enable a better view for diagnosis.” The launch event was sponsored by two of last year’s first-time award winners, Paola Spiga of Glam & Glow Beauty Lab in Hockley Heath (Start-up of the Year) and Bia Rodrigues Perry of Bia’s Kitchen Show (Outstanding Entrepreneur) along with David Perry Photography. Paola perfected her beautician skills working with experts at five-star hotels in her native Italy before moving to the UK to launch her own successful salon, which recently celebrated its first anniversary. She said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be involved as a sponsor for the Ladies First Awards this year. Winning ‘Start Up of the Year’ last year was a defining moment in my journey, and now, having the opportunity to give back and support other incredible people is truly an honour. Ladies First is all about empowerment, connection, and celebrating success, everything I stand for. I can’t wait to help champion the next wave of inspiring entrepreneurs!” Since January, Bia’s Kitchen Show has highlighted some of the best of the area’s foodie scene when it is streams twice-monthly to audiences on YouTube, Spotify, Instagram and Facebook. The show is an extension of her successful Bia’s Kitchen brand, featuring local independent chefs and restaurateurs cooking signature dishes as well as her own top tips and recipes. Her first book, Bia’s Kitchen The Cookbook: A Culinary Journey of Gratitude, was recently released. She said: “As a woman who has faced numerous challenges, I understand the profound impact of having a supportive network of inspiring women by my side. Sponsoring an award that honours women in power is not just about recognition; it’s about fostering a community that uplifts and motivates us to reach greater heights. Together, we can create a future where every woman feels empowered to continue her journey with confidence and courage.” Headline sponsors for the awards are Edwards Wealth, in Berkswell; Alsters Kelley Solicitors, which has branches in Coventry and Warwickshire; Midlands-based recruitment agency Pertemps Network; IXL Centre in Southam; Bia’s Kitchen Show in Leamington and Sandhu Foods. Ladies First director Tracey McAtamney, from Balsall Common, said: “I am hugely proud of the Ladies First community, which is about building relationships in business and friends for life. Although Ladies First is a woman in business network, our awards support not only women, but include businessmen, family businesses and my particular passion, mentoring young people. It felt extra special to be celebrating the achievements of so many at such an auspicious venue”. The Awards Nominations opened on 1st February, with finalists announced on March 21st. The interview day is on April 7th at Mallory Court in Leamington and the Awards dinner will be held at the IXL Dallas Burston Polo Club on June 5th. Photos: David Perry Photography.

A south coast legal firm is gearing up for a deluge of instructions as business owners race to beat an imminent tax deadline. Company law experts at Ellis Jones Solicitors already report a heightened case load ahead of looming changes to Capital Gains Tax (CGT) and expect the rush to intensify. It follows the reduction of Business Asset Disposal Relief (BADR), previously Entrepreneurs’ Relief, due to take effect from 6 April 2025. Until now, thanks to BADR, the sale, disposal or transfer of ‘qualifying business assets’ such as company shares has attracted a lower CGT rate of 10% on the first £1 million of gains. But from 6 April, under changes announced in the Budget, the rate will go up to 14%. A year later, in April 2026, it will rise again to 18%. Missing out on the 10% relief will affect many smaller, owner-managed businesses where owners and directors are looking to sell up, for example to finance retirement plans. Neil Cook, Partner & Head of Business Services at Ellis Jones, says the reduction of BADR will hit many business owners looking to exit through a sale. Neil said: “Under BADR now, if you have a £1 million gain from a qualifying business asset you want to dispose of, the 10% rate means you pay £100,000 in CGT. Following the Chancellor’s announcement, if the transaction completes after 6 April 2025, you will pay 14%, so £140,000, an increase of £40,000." “If you’re looking at a sale after 6 April 2026, it will be £180,000, so an extra £80,000 compared to now. Such additional tax liabilities will make a massive difference to people. In the run-up to the Budget last October, we were inundated with enquiries and instructions from business owners desperate to see deals completed before it was too late." “That was because of fears the Chancellor might have abolished or reduced BADR or increased headline rates of CGT there and then. We were working around the clock last October as we did our best to help clients seal their deals." “With the 6 April deadline now just a few weeks away, the rush has started again. We’ve had instructions on multiple deals in the past ten days or so and we are gearing up for a high level of work through the rest of February and right up to the end of March." “Many clients in the small business community have pinned their retirement plans on the expectation of paying a certain level of CGT but could now end up in a situation where they will be tens of thousands of pounds worse off if they don’t act immediately.” Neil said his team were “well placed and have plenty of capacity” to help clients worried about the BADR change, adding that business owners should always consult a tax expert or accountant for the best tax advice concerning CGT and all tax matters. Members of Ellis Jones’ Business Services department work from the independent law firm’s offices in Dorset and London.

Hochiki, a global leader in life safety solutions, is celebrating the first anniversary of its Training Academy. This milestone marks a significant achievement in Hochiki's commitment to education and advancement within the fire safety industry. With over a century of experience, Hochiki has earned a reputation for manufacturing reliable and innovative life safety products. The Training Academy builds upon this legacy, providing fire safety professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively design, install, commission, and maintain Hochiki systems. The past year has seen remarkable growth and engagement, with over 789 registered users and more than 514 courses completed, both online and in person. The academy offers a diverse range of courses catering to all levels of experience, from engineers new to fire safety to seasoned experts. “From first contacting Hochiki support to completing their online course, and then face-to-face training, the communication has been fantastic,” said one Training Academy graduate. “I wish more companies had the same attitude and skill as Hochiki and their training academy.” The academy’s blended learning approach combines online modules, including webinars, how-to videos, and interactive courses, with hands-on, in-person sessions at Hochiki’s state-of-the-art facilities in Kent. This allows participants to learn at their own pace while also benefiting from direct interaction with experienced professionals. Practical exercises and simulations enhance the learning experience. Shinsuke Kubo, Managing Director at Hochiki Europe commented: “The first anniversary of the Hochiki Training Academy marks a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to supporting the fire safety industry. By providing high-quality training and education, we want to empower engineers to deliver safer and more effective fire protection solutions. The academy's success is a testament to the value of continuous professional development and the importance of collaboration between us, as a leading manufacturer, and fire industry professionals, in the pursuit of enhanced life safety.” The Hochiki Training Academy plays a crucial role in ensuring the correct specification, installation, and maintenance of Hochiki products, contributing to enhanced fire safety in buildings worldwide. Looking ahead, the academy plans to expand its course offerings, introduce new modules covering the latest advancements in fire safety technology, and further enhance its online platform.

Young people in Glasgow’s Canal Ward will benefit from football, mentorship, and life skills support thanks to Ashfield Football Academy’s latest project, ‘Beyond the Game: Empowering Youth and Coaches for Community Impact.’ As one of the largest youth football organisations in north Glasgow, Ashfield Football Academy offers structured football development for approximately 200 players, from grassroots to semi-professional levels. More than just a training ground, the academy fosters discipline, encourages teamwork, and builds leadership skills, preparing young people for success both on and off the pitch. Supported by over 40 dedicated volunteers, Ashfield provides support to young people and families in one of Scotland’s most deprived areas. The Beyond the Game project will use football as a platform to promote personal development, mental health awareness, and employability. The Academy is also planning a football festival this summer to bring the community together for sport and social engagement, while participating in workshops which will focus on essential life skills such as CV building and job readiness. Additionally, volunteer coaches will receive development in football training, first aid, and mental health first aid, ensuring they can provide meaningful support to young people facing challenges in their every-day lives. The Beyond the Game project is no small undertaking, and Ashfield has received £4,500 from the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust to help make this initiative a reality. Managing Director of Ashfield Football Academy Paul Maxwell, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Allied Vehicles Group for their continued generosity and unwavering support over the past decade. Their £4,500 donation is a tremendous boost to our mission of empowering young people and volunteer coaches through football, mental health support, and life-skills development. This funding will allow us to make a real difference in our community, creating inclusive opportunities and fostering stronger relationships. Allied Vehicles’ belief in our vision inspires us to keep growing and striving to make a lasting impact.” The funding will support the festival, training programmes and outreach efforts, allowing the academy to continue to be a source of opportunity and support, helping young people in Glasgow develop the skills and confidence to succeed. Gerry Facenna, founder and owner of Allied Vehicles Group, said: “Allied Vehicles has been a proud supporter of Ashfield Football for many years, and we’re delighted to help them continue their fantastic work. We're excited to see the positive impact of this project on the young people in our local community.”

Over the past decade or so, the UK has witnessed an extraordinary culinary shift, as Vietnamese food has moved from the fringes of British dining to a beloved staple in high streets and homes alike. Once a niche cuisine reserved for adventurous foodies, Vietnamese dishes like pho, banh mi, and bun cha now enjoy widespread popularity, reflecting the growing appetite for fresh, flavourful, and healthy eating options. This surge in interest is not just about taste but also about a cultural narrative woven with immigration, innovation, and the embrace of global flavours. A Humble Beginning The presence of Vietnamese food in the UK began modestly, tied closely to waves of immigration from Vietnam. Following the end of the Vietnam War in 1975, many Vietnamese refugees arrived in Britain seeking safety and a new beginning. With them came a rich culinary tradition rooted in a history of diverse influences, including Chinese, French, and regional Southeast Asian flavours. Early Vietnamese food offerings in the UK were primarily small, family-run businesses tucked away in corners of cities like London and Birmingham. During the 1990s, these establishments catered mostly to the Vietnamese diaspora, serving dishes like steaming bowls of pho and plates of com tam (broken rice) to nostalgic diners. While Vietnamese food enjoyed pockets of loyal patrons, it remained largely unknown to the wider public. The reasons were manifold: limited exposure, a lack of understanding of the cuisine, and competition with more established Asian cuisines like Chinese, Indian, and Thai. The Turning Point The early 2000s marked a turning point for Vietnamese food in the UK, coinciding with the rise of global street food culture and a growing interest in healthier eating. Vietnamese cuisine, with its emphasis on fresh herbs, light broths, and balanced flavours, began to align perfectly with changing British tastes. The popularity of pho, a hearty noodle soup often compared to ramen but with a lighter, cleaner profile, was particularly transformative. One of the major drivers of this shift was the growing visibility of Vietnamese food in London, a city increasingly recognised for its cosmopolitan dining scene. Areas like Shoreditch and Soho became hotspots for modern Vietnamese eateries. Restaurants such as Pho, which opened its first location in Clerkenwell in 2005, played a pivotal role in popularising the cuisine by making it approachable and stylish. Founded by husband-and-wife team Stephen and Juliette Wall after their travels in Vietnam, Pho has since expanded into a nationwide chain with over 30 locations. Their success underscored the growing demand for Vietnamese flavours and introduced dishes like summer rolls and vermicelli bowls to a wider audience. Health, Authenticity, and the Millennial Factor The rise of Vietnamese food in the UK is inextricably linked to the health-conscious eating trends that have gained traction in the 21st century. British diners increasingly sought meals that were both satisfying and nutritious, and Vietnamese cuisine’s reliance on fresh herbs, lean proteins, and minimal use of dairy resonated strongly. Dishes like goi cuon (fresh spring rolls) became popular for their vibrant presentation and low-calorie appeal, while banh mi sandwiches, with their unique blend of crusty French baguette and tangy pickled vegetables, offered a portable, flavourful alternative to more calorie-heavy fast foods. Vietnamese food also benefited from the millennial generation’s penchant for culinary exploration. As digital platforms like Instagram and food blogs grew in influence, the visually appealing nature of Vietnamese dishes helped propel them into the limelight. The vibrant greens of coriander and mint, the deep amber hues of beef pho, and the colourful layering of banh mi fillings made the cuisine highly photogenic. Social media and travel have also encouraged a deeper appreciation for authenticity. Diners began seeking out not just any Vietnamese food but authentic flavours reminiscent of Vietnam’s bustling street markets. Independent eateries like Cây Treand Song Que in London became go-to destinations for food lovers wanting a genuine taste of Vietnam. At the same time, home cooks in the UK started experimenting with Vietnamese recipes, spurred by the availability of ingredients like fish sauce, rice paper, and lemongrass in mainstream supermarkets. Beyond London Although London remains the epicentre of the Vietnamese food boom, the trend has spread across the UK. Cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh now boast thriving Vietnamese food scenes, with both independent restaurants and larger chains finding success. In smaller towns, Vietnamese food trucks and pop-up stalls at food festivals have introduced the cuisine to new audiences. The accessibility of Vietnamese food has also been bolstered by the rise of meal kits and delivery apps, allowing people to enjoy dishes like pho and banh xeo (Vietnamese pancakes) in the comfort of their own homes. Challenges and Future Prospects Despite its growing popularity, Vietnamese cuisine in the UK faces challenges. One is the fine balance between authenticity and accessibility. While some diners crave traditional flavours, others prefer modernized versions that cater to Western palates. Restaurateurs must navigate this divide carefully, ensuring they honour the roots of the cuisine while meeting the expectations of a diverse customer base. Another challenge lies in competition. With the UK’s food scene becoming increasingly global, Vietnamese restaurants must work harder to stand out amidst the proliferation of Korean BBQ, Middle Eastern mezze, and other trendy cuisines. However, the future looks bright. Vietnamese food’s emphasis on fresh ingredients and balanced flavours aligns with broader culinary trends emphasizing sustainability and health. Additionally, younger chefs of Vietnamese heritage are making waves by putting innovative spins on traditional dishes, introducing British diners to the next evolution of the cuisine. The rise of Vietnamese food in the UK is more than a trend—it’s a testament to the power of food as a cultural bridge. What began as a modest offering by immigrant communities has blossomed into a celebrated part of Britain’s culinary identity. As Vietnamese flavours continue to evolve and capture the hearts of diners across the country, they remind us that the most enduring culinary movements are those that bring people together, one delicious bite at a time.

Few things in life offer the sheer delight of a perfectly creamy scoop of ice cream. Whether it's a classic vanilla cone on a summer’s day or an adventurous swirl of matcha and black sesame, ice cream has been a beloved treat across the world for centuries. But behind the simplicity of its appearance lies a fascinating history, an intricate science, and a booming industry dedicated to constant reinvention. A Scoop of History Ice cream’s origins stretch back thousands of years, with some of the earliest forms recorded in ancient China, where crushed ice and fruit were combined into a rudimentary frozen dessert. The Persians had a similar concoction called “faloodeh,” a frozen mixture of vermicelli noodles, rose water, and lime juice. Later, the Italians perfected the art with gelato, while the French refined the texture and presentation. By the 18th century, ice cream had become a European luxury, enjoyed by aristocrats before eventually reaching a wider audience with advances in refrigeration. The 20th century brought mass production, and with it, a global industry built on innovation. Today, we see everything from nitrogen-frozen gourmet creations to plant-based alternatives made from oat, almond, or coconut milk, ensuring that everyone can partake in this frozen delight. The Science of the Perfect Scoop At its core, ice cream is a delicate balance of fat, sugar, air, and ice crystals. The secret to a smooth texture lies in the size of these crystals – the smaller they are, the creamier the final product. Modern ice cream makers use rapid freezing techniques to minimise ice crystal growth, while emulsifiers and stabilisers help maintain the perfect consistency. Then, there’s the question of flavour. Fat content plays a crucial role in how flavours are perceived, with full-fat dairy providing a rich, lingering taste. Sugar not only adds sweetness but also affects the freezing point, ensuring that the ice cream remains soft enough to scoop. Air, too, is a key factor – premium ice creams tend to have less air churned in, creating a denser, more indulgent mouthfeel. Flavour Trends and Innovations Gone are the days when vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry dominated the ice cream scene. Today, artisanal producers and big brands alike are experimenting with unexpected ingredients and bold flavour pairings. Salted caramel, once a novelty, is now a staple. Exotic infusions such as lavender and honey, saffron and pistachio, or even blue cheese and pear are capturing the imaginations of adventurous food lovers. Plant-based and dairy-free ice creams have also surged in popularity, catering not just to vegans but to those with dietary restrictions or environmental concerns. Advances in food technology mean that non-dairy bases can now achieve the same rich texture as traditional ice cream, making them an appealing choice for an ever-growing market. Another innovation taking the ice cream world by storm is nitrogen freezing. Shops specialising in this technique use liquid nitrogen to flash-freeze a fresh mixture right before customers’ eyes, resulting in an ultra-smooth texture and a bit of theatrical flair. The Business of Ice Cream The global ice cream market is worth billions, with giants like Häagen-Dazs, Ben & Jerry’s, and Magnum leading the charge. But alongside these household names, independent makers and small-batch producers are thriving, offering local, organic, and hyper-creative flavours that appeal to discerning consumers. Social media has also played a huge role in shaping modern ice cream trends. Instagram-worthy creations, from rainbow-hued soft serves to rolled Thai-style ice cream, have become viral sensations, proving that presentation is nearly as important as taste in the digital age. The Future of Ice Cream As consumer preferences evolve, so too does the ice cream industry. Sustainability is becoming a major focus, with brands working to reduce their carbon footprint by using ethically sourced ingredients, compostable packaging, and eco-friendly production methods. There’s also a growing interest in functional ice creams – those infused with probiotics, protein, or even adaptogens like ashwagandha – catering to health-conscious consumers who still crave a sweet treat. One thing remains certain: ice cream will always be more than just a dessert. It’s a symbol of joy, nostalgia, and creativity, capable of bringing people together across generations and cultures. Whether enjoyed in a cone, a cup, or straight from the tub, it’s a treat that never goes out of style. So next time you take a bite of your favourite flavour, remember – there’s a whole world of science, history, and innovation in that little scoop.

A Derby window coverings firm has provided blinds for 11 schools in the past year as part of a Government drive to make educational institutions safer from potential terrorist attacks. Raynesway Blinds, based in Derby Road, Chaddesden, has reacted to a spate of orders from Derbyshire schools to install blinds in response to counter-terrorism guidance from Westminster. The non-statutory guidance was issued in a report to schools by the Department for Education in April 2024, following the introduction of the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015. Since then, Raynesway Blinds has been inundated with calls for its services from schools including Royal School for the Deaf Derby, in Ashbourne Road, Brackensdale Spencer Academy in Walthamstow Drive and High Grange School on Hospital Lane. The schools have been advised on low or no-cost ways to increase security and be better prepared and more able to respond to terrorism and other major incidents such as bomb threats. Guidance includes the appointment of dedicated ‘Security Leads’ among staff, teaching pupils the principles of ‘Run, Hide, Tell’ and practicing lockdown drills, which may include the closing of blinds so that pupils are less visible in the event of an external attack. Tony Hales, director of Raynesway Blinds, said: “Schools have for years installed curtains and blinds for a number of reasons, not least to shield pupils from bright sunlight to aid their comfort and learning or to provide blackout capability, perhaps for school plays or classroom presentations." “But the issuing of counter-terrorism guidance by the Department for Education last year has clearly spurred many more schools than usual to replace, upgrade or install new blinds. We have responded to each and every request, whether it be direct contact from the schools or as a recommendation from other contractors." “It’s quite rewarding to learn how well our blinds can support this commendable drive to keep school pupils and staff safe in these often scary times.” One Derby school, Royal School for the Deaf, has recently had 10 of its rooms fully fitted with new vertical blinds by Raynesway Blinds. The move follows upgrades and repairs to existing blinds in another nine rooms. The new installations, a combination of vertical blinds, tapered vertical blinds and cellular ‘perfect fit’ blinds, cover a total area of more than 450 sq. metres of windows. Regulations demand that all blinds are fire-retardant. Paul Burrows, headteacher of Royal School for the Deaf Derby, said: "We have a long-standing relationship with Raynesway Blinds, and they are our first port of call. The team there offer good customer service, they are reliable and competitive on pricing." "With regards to school security, there has to be a balance between keeping children and staff safe, and scaring them. These things don't happen often, but schools need to focus on prevention, with proper procedures, signage, training and of course blinds." "Blinds can act as a barrier between viewing young people and equipment in such incidences." "You do everything you can to create a safe school environment and all schools have to formulate their own plans due to their own considerations. For us here, we have to consider that alarms need to be visual." Other schools that have benefited from the professional supply and installation services provided by Raynesway Blinds include Shelton Infant School and Church Broughton Primary School.

Manchester-based, HMG Paints’ range of sports venue coatings has once again played a crucial role in a refurbishment project at Broadhurst Park, transforming the club's community gym as part of the partnership between HMG Paints and FC United. The project, which saw the transformation of an underutilised space under the main stand turned into a community gym space, utilised HMG's HydroPro All Purpose paint. HydroPro All Purpose played a crucial role in the successful completion of the project. Its user-friendly formula ensured a smooth and efficient application process, while its minimal surface preparation requirements significantly reduced project time and costs. Furthermore, HydroPro All Purpose boasts quick recoat times, enabling rapid project completion. FC United of Manchester’s Community Gym is designed to be inclusive and accessible, offering various programmes and services for everyone. From women's health classes and after-school activities for kids to support for academy players and rehabilitation after injury, the gym provides a welcoming environment for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to belong and thrive. Expressing his gratitude for the paint donation, FC United of Manchester’s General Manager said: “We are incredibly grateful to HMG Paints for their generous support and high-quality paint, which has truly transformed our new gym. Their contribution has helped us create an inspiring and vibrant space for our community.” James Burton of HMG Paints added: “Well done to all involved in creating this fantastic, well-equipped space for the local community. HMG is pleased to support such projects, and we’re proud to see our new HydroPro All Purpose help make the refurbishment easy with its multi-surface application, minimal preparation, and fast recoat times.” HMG is proud to have contributed to this important community project. By supporting FC United's efforts to enhance the fan experience and provide a valuable resource for residents.

A process filter manufacturer has begun a record year of industry exhibition activity as it eyes global trading opportunities on its fortieth anniversary. Surrey-based Amazon Filters is targeting international showcases here in the UK and in New York, Kuala Lumpur and Warsaw. They reflect the firm’s core markets of pharmaceutical, healthcare, municipal water treatment, renewable energy and oil and gas production. Founded in 1985, Amazon Filters makes and supplies a wide range of filter vessels and housings for critical liquid and gas applications in process industries worldwide. A presence at business-to-business conferences and exhibitions has steadily helped the firm raise its profile and strengthen reach among customers across a growing list of sales territories. Neil Pizzey, Managing Director, said: “We’ve recently put great store both on capital investments at our UK fabrication facility and in recruiting new staff, partners and distributors in territories where we are pursuing growth." “This year, our fortieth, we are keen to do more than ever to demonstrate how our ‘quick and able’ manufacturing and export capacity supports multi-sector involvement and activity.” The firm’s exhibition presence kicks off at the international green energy event Hydrogen Live in Liverpool on 5 to 6 February 2025. Dedicated to ‘uniting the hydrogen value chain and accelerating the hydrogen economy’, the event is a prime opportunity for Amazon Filters engineers to highlight the benefits of their liquid and gas filtration solutions for mission-critical electrolysis technology. Three dedicated pharmaceutical industry events follow: InterPhex in New York on 1 to 3 April; Making Pharma in Coventry on 29 to 30 April; and the ISPE Europe Annual Conference in London from 12 to 14 May. InterPhex, at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in Manhattan, aims to provide a comprehensive overview of global advances in pharmaceutical and biotech especially process development and regulatory compliance. Making Pharma, at the Coventry Building Society Arena, covers all aspects of the pharmaceutical supply chain. Themes this year include sustainability, audit and compliance and the application of AI and machine learning. ISPE, the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering, is this year holding its annual conference at the Novotel London West in Hammersmith. It will enable the Amazon Filters team to meet with senior executives in drug manufacturing, the supply chain and global regulatory agencies. Amazon Filters’ recently appointed Market Manager - Pharmaceutical & Healthcare, Mafalda Silva, who will attend all three pharmaceutical events, said: “Our presence at these industry conferences and exhibitions is a key element of our targeted international sales plan to accelerate market development and growth while working closely with colleagues, distributors, resale partners and customers.” The start of April will also see filtration experts from the firm’s Polish manufacturing base exhibit products at the giant Warsaw trade fair, FiltraTec. Around 7,000 visitors are expected from 15 countries, representing a wide range of filtration processes including water treatment, energy production and chemicals and pharmaceutical manufacturing. The Amazon Filters team will discuss how their research and development partnership with the Faculty of Chemical and Process Engineering at the Warsaw University of Technology underpins product development in various sectors. FiltraTec takes place on 1 to 3 April at the PTAK Warsaw Expo. On 5 June the focus is on the UK water industry with product exhibitions at the Drinking Water Quality Conference at Birmingham’s National Conference Centre. Attendees include representatives from all the major water companies and their supply chain partners. In Malaysia, on 2 to 4 September, Amazon Filters will exhibit at this year’s Oil & Gas Asia (OGA), taking place at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre and aimed at decision makers in the oil, gas, energy and petrochemicals sectors. Members of Amazon Filters’ Kuala Lumpur-based sales team, Mohamed Nizam Mohamed Hanifa and Muhamad Syakir Samsudin, will be exhibiting products in association with industry partner and offshore drilling contractor Diamond Offshore. Fazli Ibrahim, Diamond Offshore’s Malaysian-based Chief Executive, said: “We look forward to joining forces with Amazon Filters at OGA to highlight the benefits of innovative, energy-efficient filtration solutions for efficiency, performance and sustainability across upstream, midstream and downstream processes.”

London Gatwick is set to play a pivotal role in helping the Government achieve its bold target of welcoming 50 million international visitors per year to the UK. The airport is awaiting a decision from the Government on its proposal to bring its existing Northern Runway into routine use alongside its Main Runway. The project represents a £2.2 billion shovel-ready, privately financed investment which could be operational by the turn of the decade, and would enable London Gatwick to further support inbound tourism beyond 2030. London Gatwick’s plans align with the Government's vision for the tourism sector, announced by Tourism Minister Sir Chris Bryant at the Tourism Alliance Conference in November. Sir Chris further emphasised the importance of collaboration between the Government and the tourism industry to achieve the 50 million target. UKinbound is the UK’s only trade association dedicated to inbound tourism, and represent more than 400 businesses across the sector. Joss Croft OBE, CEO, UKinbound said: “Inbound tourism to the UK was worth £32bn to our economy in 2024. London Gatwick plays a vital role in this industry, delivering many of these visitors to the UK, and drives significant revenue into the whole of the country." “Growth of the airport will result in better ability for potential customers to visit and with expanded capacity comes the potential for new routes, including from high-value markets such as North America, Asia and the Middle East.” Jonathan Pollard, Chief Commercial Officer, London Gatwick said: “If the Government is to reach its target it is vital we offer more choice to passengers to enter the UK. London Gatwick can play a crucial role in shaping the UK's tourism landscape, supporting the Government’s vision and fostering economic growth and job creation across the whole region.” London Gatwick’s future growth plans, including the Northern Runway, which could be operational by the turn of the decade, are forecast to boost the number of international visitors arriving via the airport. Research from Oxford Economics shows the number of international visitors through Gatwick will incrementally grow from 5.6m out of 46.6m total passengers in 2019, to 9m by 2038, a 61% increase, contributing to the Government’s 2030 target. This includes an increase of 1.6m visitors compared to a scenario without the Northern Runway, underlining the critical importance of the project in supporting the Government's ambitious goals. The increase in international visitors is also anticipated to support the generation of £8.74bn of Gross Value Added (GVA) from London Gatwick to the UK alone through increased spending by 2038. This figure represents nearly £2bn more than what would be achieved without the development.

Bradley and Barney Walsh are back on the road together, this time experiencing the cultures of beautiful Asia on another epic adventure. In this brand-new six-part series for ITV1, ITVX, STV and STV Player, the pair will take in the sights and flavours of Japan and Thailand. But, as ever in Bradley & Barney Walsh: Breaking Dad, Bradley won’t quite be getting the rest and relaxation he is hoping for as Barney is planning a packed itinerary full of adrenaline rushing challenges to push his dad to the limit. Bradley Walsh said: “It’s so good to be back on the road again with Barney. We really do have the best time but I’m not quite sure what he has up his sleeve on this trip, which is slightly worrying…” Barney Walsh said: “I’m excited to get stuck into this new adventure with my dad, and get him to experience the local cultures in Japan and Thailand. It’s going to be an exciting and adrenaline fuelled road trip with lots of fun and laughter.” Sue Murphy Head of Factual Entertainment ITV said: “We're thrilled that our very own father and son dynamic duo are back on the road, this time unleashing their inimitable charm onto unsuspecting Asia, as Barney continues to push Brad way beyond his comfort zones." Dan Baldwin, Managing Director at Hungry Bear Media said: “Bradley and Barney reflect so many father and son relationships up and down the country. This trip is one of the funniest, dangerous and most heart-warming yet." "There are many different travelogues on TV but nothing quite compares to Breaking Dad.” Bradley & Barney Walsh: Breaking Dad series 6 is commissioned for ITV1 and ITVX by Sue Murphy, Head of Factual Entertainment ITV. The series is produced by Hungry Bear Media. The series editor is Reshmi Bajnath.

Nearly half of UK workers are prioritising landing a new role this year according to research by recruitment specialist Pertemps which showed that 47 per cent said a new role was a goal for 2025. Meanwhile, 26 per cent said they wanted to get a better work/life balance, 19 per cent wanted to learn new skills and eight per cent said a promotion was their top target before the end of the year. Tracy Evans, Director of HR and Quality at West Midlands-based Pertemps, said: “We have just under half of people saying they want to move jobs this year. That is a significant number and maybe suggests that employers still have work to do on their offering for workers." “We know money will likely remain the top motivator for most people, but it’s things like training and development, career advancement, work-life balance and benefits packages that come with the pay check that people need to make them feel settled and happy in the work.” A recent report showed that flexible working and enhanced sick pay were the most desired benefits, with many willing to skip a pay rise to get them. Pertemps has appeared in an annual UK list of best companies to work for for the past 18 years.