The beach holds an undeniable charm that has drawn humans to its shores for centuries. Whether we’re seeking a moment of tranquility, a surge of excitement, or a connection to nature, the beach provides a unique and multifaceted experience. It is a place where the sky meets the sea, where time seems to pause, and where our worries are momentarily swept away with the tide. From the sensory delights to the numerous health benefits, going to the beach is a ritual that nourishes the body, mind, and soul. One of the most compelling aspects of the beach is its sensory richness. The rhythmic sound of waves crashing against the shore creates a natural symphony that soothes the mind. The salty scent of the sea air, mingled with the warmth of the sun, evokes feelings of relaxation and renewal. Walking barefoot on the sand offers a tactile pleasure that is grounding and meditative. Each grain feels like a connection to the earth, reminding us of life’s simplicity and the joy of being present. For many, watching the sunrise or sunset over the water is a moment of awe, a reminder of the world’s vast beauty and our place within it. Beyond its sensory pleasures, the beach is a place of physical rejuvenation. Swimming in the ocean is not only refreshing but also an excellent full-body workout that improves cardiovascular health and strengthens muscles. The buoyancy of saltwater makes it easy to float, reducing stress on the joints and allowing for low-impact exercise. The beach encourages movement—whether through beach volleyball, surfing, paddleboarding, or simply strolling along the shoreline. Even the act of lying in the sun has its benefits when enjoyed in moderation. Sunlight prompts the body to produce vitamin D, which is essential for bone health and immune function. The beach invites us to embrace our physicality in a way that feels joyful and effortless. The mental health benefits of spending time at the beach are equally profound. The ocean has a calming effect that has been scientifically proven to reduce stress and anxiety. The term 'blue mind' describes the state of relaxation and contentment that water environments can foster. As we gaze at the horizon, our minds have space to wander and unwind. The openness of the sea contrasts with the often-cluttered environments of our daily lives, offering a mental clarity that is hard to replicate elsewhere. For many, a visit to the beach becomes a form of therapy—a chance to leave behind the noise of modern life and reconnect with inner peace. In addition to its personal benefits, the beach fosters a sense of community and togetherness. Families build sandcastles, friends share laughter over seaside picnics, and strangers exchange smiles as they collect shells along the shore. The beach brings people together in a way that feels natural and unforced. It is a place where generations intersect, where children play with unbridled joy while older adults find solace in the gentle rhythms of the waves. Whether shared in silence or filled with conversation, time at the beach strengthens relationships and creates cherished memories. The beach is also a classroom of its own, teaching us lessons about the environment and the interconnectedness of life. The ebb and flow of the tides remind us of nature’s cycles and the importance of balance. Watching marine life—whether it’s a school of fish darting through the shallows or a pod of dolphins leaping in the distance—awakens our sense of wonder and responsibility to protect these ecosystems. For children and adults alike, the beach is a place to learn, to explore, and to cultivate a deep appreciation for the planet. Ultimately, what we love about going to the beach is its ability to fulfil us on every level. It is a sanctuary where we can recharge and a playground where we can unleash our creativity. The beach offers freedom, inspiration, and healing in equal measure. It reminds us of the beauty of the natural world and our place within it. No matter how we experience it—as a solo retreat, a family outing, or an adventure with friends—the beach is a timeless destination that continues to captivate our hearts and minds.

Williams Racing and Atlassian are thrilled to announce a long-term title partnership that will usher in a new era for the iconic Formula 1 team as Atlassian Williams Racing. Williams, the joint-second most successful team in F1 history with 114 wins, 9 Constructors’ Championships and 7 Drivers’ Championships is joining forces with Atlassian (NASDAQ: TEAM), a leading provider of team collaboration and productivity software whose world-class platform serves over 300,000 customers across the globe. This partnership unites two organisations driven by teamwork: Atlassian’s AI-powered collaboration software empowers teams of 10 to 10,000+ people so they can plan and track work, align on goals and unleash knowledge seamlessly. For almost 50 years Williams has been competing in F1 which is the ultimate test of teamwork across a range of disciplines in pursuit of sporting success. Under the partnership, Atlassian becomes the Official Title Partner, Official Technology Partner and Official Collaboration Software partner. The multi-year commitment is the biggest partnership deal in Williams’ 48-year history, recognising its position as an icon of one of the most-popular and fastest-growing sports on the planet. It is another vote of confidence in the team’s comeback plan to transform and deliver future World Championship success. Atlassian will play a major role in accelerating that transformation with its System of Work for technology-driven companies: a deliberate approach to teamwork that emphasises connecting all teams, and leveraging AI to maximise impact and innovation. The adoption of this approach and the Atlassian product suite across Williams will unleash the potential of Atlassian Williams Racing, deepening teamwork and collaboration to deliver on-track performance. As Official Title Partner, Atlassian’s branding will feature prominently on the FW47 race cars being driven in the 2025 Formula 1 season by Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz – one of the most formidable line-ups on the grid – which will be unveiled at Silverstone on Friday. Atlassian branding will also be integrated into all aspects of the team environment both trackside and at their Grove HQ. The new Atlassian Williams Racing logo, unveiled today, symbolises this true partnership. It has been uniquely crafted to unite the identities of Atlassian and Williams Racing, seamlessly combining two distinct marks and incorporating signature blues from each brand’s colour palette. The FW47 will launch on Friday with a special one-off livery to celebrate the partnership, before the official 2025 race livery is revealed on February 18 at the F1 season launch at London’s The O2. James Vowles, Team Principal, Atlassian Williams Racing: “I am delighted to welcome Atlassian into Formula 1 and our evolution into Atlassian Williams Racing. Attracting a title partnership of this size and significance is a momentous day in our team’s illustrious history and a major milestone in our comeback transformation. We are putting in place all the right ingredients to get this team back to the front of the grid, and in Atlassian we have a partner that through its technology and tools will help unleash our full potential by improving teamwork and collaboration right across the organisation. Our values and ambition align perfectly, and I’m excited about what we can achieve together.” Mike Cannon-Brookes, CEO, Atlassian: “Formula 1 is the ultimate team sport. It's where engineers, developers, commercial teams, pit crews and countless others work together in real-time at incredible speeds to race for a podium finish. Atlassian shares Williams' deep belief in the power of teamwork. We know that when great teams have the right tools and practices, they can achieve things that would be impossible alone." “As one of the first global technology companies out of Australia, we understand what it's like to have passion, drive and the belief that you're building something great. This team has been through a remarkable transformation, and I believe Atlassian Williams Racing has all the foundations for a renewed era of greatness.”

The Natural History Museum has opened the Garden Kitchen – a new café nestled within its recently transformed gardens. Museum visitors, as well as passers-by, can take a break and immerse themselves in a garden which tells the story of life on earth, starting 540 million years ago, from the comfort of The Garden Kitchen. Offering a seasonal menu with vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options available, the new eatery is open from 9.30am, has stunning views of the urban green space and the Museum’s latest resident dinosaur. Early risers can try the delicious slow roasted coffee, pastries and fresh juices. Lunchtime visitors can try dishes like Battered North Atlantic haddock, chunky chips, lemon, homemade tartare sauce 7; winter-spiced butternut squash salad made with radicchio, wild rocket, roasted butternut squash, spiced hazelnuts, pomegranate and beetroot dressing; or Aubergine tempura made with tahini yoghurt, date molasses; thanks to catering partner Benugo. Those with a sweet tooth can get stuck into delicious blueberry muffins, chocolate muffins, mouthwatering carrot cake or mango and coconut cake. Set in the Evolution Garden amongst the beautiful planting, the Garden Kitchen is a vast open-plan space featuring wooden beams and huge expansive windows where visitors can keep an eye on Fern – the Museum’s newest resident diplodocus – while soaking in the sights and sounds of nature. Robert Wetherell, Head of Events and Catering at the Natural History Museum said: “We want to make sure our Museum guests are well fed when exploring our fascinating galleries, exhibitions and 18 million specimens – and we expect they’ll go wild for the delicious new menu on offer." “This tranquil oasis in the heart of London offers the perfect respite with delicious warming meals, seasonal vegetables and perfectly-brewed coffee – all with a view of urban nature and the Evolution Garden, where our newest diplodocus Fern gazes down on an immersive timeline of life on earth, told through flowers, plants, geology and brass inlays of creatures.” Ben Warner, Benugo co-founder said: “We’re delighted to partner with the Natural History Museum to bring the Garden Kitchen to life. It’s a privilege to welcome visitors to enjoy this special space and our carefully curated seasonal menu while surrounded by a 2.7 billion year timeline of the planet.” The Garden Kitchen is also open to the public, no Museum ticket needed, from 9.30am to 4.30pm.

Travel has long been an intrinsic part of human life, a universal desire that transcends cultures and generations. It is an act of exploration, of stepping beyond the familiar to embrace the unknown. Whether for leisure, adventure, or self-discovery, people are drawn to travel for its myriad rewards. It offers a unique combination of joy, learning, and transformation that enriches the mind, body, and soul. From expanding horizons to fostering personal growth, the reasons people love to travel are as diverse as the destinations they choose. At its core, travel appeals to our innate curiosity about the world. It allows us to break free from the monotony of daily routines and experience new environments, cultures, and perspectives. Every journey, whether to a neighbouring town or a far-flung country, offers an opportunity to explore the unfamiliar. This sense of novelty is exhilarating, sparking a childlike wonder that reignites our enthusiasm for life. For many, travel satisfies a thirst for adventure—trekking through dense rainforests, navigating bustling city streets, or diving into crystal-clear oceans. These experiences, rich in sensory and emotional stimulation, remind us of the vastness and diversity of the world. Travel also serves as a gateway to cultural immersion. By venturing beyond our comfort zones, we encounter traditions, languages, and lifestyles different from our own. This exposure broadens our understanding of humanity, fostering empathy and appreciation for diversity. Sharing a meal with locals, participating in a traditional festival, or learning a few phrases in a foreign language allows us to connect with people in meaningful ways. These interactions can challenge preconceived notions and encourage open-mindedness. They show us that while cultures may vary, the shared human experience—love, joy, struggle, and hope—transcends borders. Another compelling reason people love to travel is the opportunity for personal growth. Travel pushes us to adapt, often placing us in situations that test our resilience and resourcefulness. Navigating unfamiliar terrain, communicating in a foreign language, or handling unexpected challenges fosters confidence and self-reliance. For some, travel is a deeply transformative experience, a chance to reflect on life’s priorities and values. A solo trip, for instance, can be an act of self-discovery, allowing travelers to step away from societal expectations and reconnect with their true selves. Even group travel fosters growth, as it strengthens relationships and encourages teamwork. Travel also nurtures our sense of freedom. Away from the constraints of everyday obligations, we can indulge in spontaneity and creativity. The flexibility to choose where to go, what to do, and how to spend our time is liberating. This freedom enables us to live in the moment, savouring experiences without the distractions of routine responsibilities. For many, the unpredictability of travel is a thrill in itself—meeting unexpected people, stumbling upon hidden gems, or simply taking a wrong turn that leads to a memorable adventure. The benefits of travel extend beyond the individual, offering physical and mental rejuvenation. A change of scenery, particularly to natural environments like mountains, beaches, or forests, can reduce stress and promote relaxation. Engaging in activities such as hiking, swimming, or even leisurely walking can improve physical fitness while boosting mood. Travel also provides mental stimulation, as learning about history, art, or science through first-hand experiences can ignite intellectual curiosity. For instance, standing before ancient ruins or viewing iconic works of art allows us to connect with humanity’s shared heritage in a visceral way. For many, travel is also a source of inspiration. Writers, artists, and innovators often find that new surroundings and cultures spark creativity. Even for those outside creative fields, the beauty of a sunset over a distant horizon or the ingenuity of a city’s architecture can be deeply motivating. Travel encourages us to see the world—and ourselves—from fresh perspectives, often leading to moments of clarity or insight. Lastly, travel enriches our lives through the memories it creates. The stories we gather from our journeys become treasured narratives we revisit and share, strengthening bonds with friends and family. Photographs, souvenirs, and the mere act of reminiscing allow us to relive these moments, keeping the spirit of adventure alive even after returning home. Travel not only adds to the richness of our personal histories but also serves as a reminder of life’s endless possibilities. In essence, people love to travel because it fulfils a deep-seated desire for exploration, connection, and self-improvement. It brings joy, education, and a sense of wonder that enhances our understanding of the world and our place within it. Each journey, no matter how grand or modest, leaves an indelible mark on the traveller, shaping their perspective and broadening their horizons. Through travel, we learn to embrace change, celebrate diversity, and cherish the beauty of the world—a gift that continues to inspire and transform us.

Fathers and daughters will have the opportunity to strengthen their relationships and break down taboos around menstrual health, thanks to an innovative project by The Period Place. The charity is dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of women and girls by addressing menstrual health, menopause, mental health, fibroids, and period poverty. Through awareness campaigns, educational workshops, and support initiatives, the organisation works to remove stigma and empower individuals to take control of their health. Their projects include period education workshops, menopause discussions, and support networks for women at various stages of life. Their latest project, Dad & Daughter Daycation, will bring together 40 fathers and their daughters for a day of bonding, education, and fun, designed to equip dads - particularly single fathers - with the knowledge and confidence to support their daughters’ menstrual health. Through interactive workshops, fathers will learn about emotional support strategies, PMS and period products, while daughters will receive guidance on puberty, menstrual health, and identifying health concerns. The day will also feature engaging activities such as outdoor games, indoor workshops, and a ‘Dad & Daughter Dance’ to strengthen emotional connections and create lasting memories. This project has been made possible through a £1,100 donation from the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust. The funding will cover essential costs, including venue hire, facilitators, and activity expenses, ensuring that all participants can benefit from a safe and supportive learning environment. Florence Igboayaka, CEO of The Period Place, said:  "Funding for our Dad & Daughter Daycation will enable us to create a memorable and impactful experience for 40 dads and daughters. By covering the costs of venue hire, qualified facilitators, and interactive outdoor activities, this support ensures we can strengthen family bonds, promote positive menstrual and mental health, and create lasting memories in a safe and supportive environment, bringing families closer together and making a real difference in their lives." By empowering fathers with the knowledge to support their daughters, The Period Place is fostering a culture of openness and understanding, helping to break down menstrual stigma and promote positive family relationships. Jennifer Miller, National Sales Manager at Allied Vehicles and a member of the Charitable Trust committee, added: "This excellent project will create a space where fathers can connect with their daughters in a meaningful way, learn about their needs and how to properly support them. We’re delighted that by funding The Period Place’s Dad & Daughter Daycation we’re helping families foster stronger bonds and build open, healthy conversations around menstrual health."

Frozen food distributor Central Foods has been awarded the BRC Agents and Brokers certificate for the eighth time – once more achieving the highest possible classification level. The company received an AA grade accreditation again, passing the audit first time and with a full clean sheet. Central Foods MD Oli Sampson said: “We are thrilled to have once again achieved the highest possible grading of BRC accreditation – a ringing endorsement of the high standards that we are committed to." “Confidence in supply chain procedures and processes is extremely important, and we are very proud that Central Foods and its technical team is operating at the very highest levels in this area." “This accreditation is the gold standard for the industry and gives our customers full confidence in the way that we work.” BRC Global Standards operates global standards for Food Safety, Packaging and Packaging Materials, Storage and Distribution, Consumer Products, Agents and Brokers, Retail, Gluten Free, Plant-Based and Ethical Trading which set the benchmark for good manufacturing practice and help provide assurance to customers that products are safe, legal and of high quality. Central Foods is one of the UK’s leading frozen food distributors to the food service sector, offering a range of sweet and savoury products to the food service industry. The company currently sells to over 200 independent wholesalers, as well as larger national and regional wholesalers. Based in Northamptonshire, Central Foods is proud to be a catering partner across the whole food service sector, supplying to hotels, restaurants, bars, universities, schools, pubs, care homes, garden centres, leisure outlets and more.

Willmott Dixon Interiors is delivering important upgrade work to the roof of one of London’s most iconic cultural landmarks. The company is installing more than 23,000 square foot of new, sun-protected glazing, above the central court area of the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich The £12 million project is designed to address water ingress and reduce solar heat gain issues associated with the existing glazing of the Grade I listed building. It is also expected to provide better acoustics and a much-improved visitor experience. Alongside the roof upgrades, Willmott Dixon Interiors is carrying out a deep clean and servicing of the building’s capital plant, including chillers, air coolers, air handling units, and the underfloor heating and cooling system, which will also undergo a flush. Existing plate heat exchangers are being replaced, and enhancements are being made to the air cooling systems to improve efficiency and performance. Additionally, works to the internal space will include the renewal of electrical lighting, power, and data systems. Willmott Dixon Interiors is delivering a series of social value-led activities alongside the main works. The contractor and its supply chain are engaging local communities in initiatives ranging from career and employability workshops, to work experience placements for students. Roger Forsdyke, chief operations officer at Willmott Dixon Interiors: “The central court is the much-loved heart of the National Maritime Museum, with many visitors passing beneath its huge glass roof every year. This project is about ensuring the best possible experience for those people, as well as the museum’s staff and the collections they care for. The new glazing we are installing will enable natural light to flood the space and give much improved thermal and acoustic qualities too.” The contract to deliver the works was awarded by public-sector procurement specialist, SCAPE. Mark Robinson, group chief executive at SCAPE: “We are delighted to be working closely with our partner, Willmott Dixon Interiors, to accelerate the delivery of the National Maritime Museum’s roof through our Major Works Framework. At SCAPE, we are committed to delivering social value across each one of our projects and this refurbishment is a fantastic example of how this can be achieved with local community initiatives and career opportunities.”

The St Austell Brewery Charitable Trust, which supports local charities and individuals in need across the South West, is inviting good causes in the region to apply for a grant following its best-ever fundraising year. Thanks to the generosity of individuals, communities and St Austell Brewery’s team members across the business, more than £145,000 was raised in 2024. Founded by St Austell Brewery in 2003, the Trust accepts applications year-round. Since its launch, more than £1.2 million has been awarded. From skydives to sponsored walks, pub quizzes to St Austell Brewery’s annual Celtic Beer Festival - which sees thousands descend on the brewery for a day of great beer and live music -fundraising efforts have resulted in grants, both large and small, being awarded throughout the year. The brewery also donates 25p to the Trust from every large portion of fish & chips sold across its 46 managed pubs in the South West. The primary purpose of the Trust is to support local charitable campaigns and to assist individuals who don’t have access to charity support through traditional means. Every penny raised by the Trust goes back into local communities where it is needed most. In 2024, more than £95,000 was donated to important causes in the region. The Trust has supported a range of causes in the recent months. Mentoring Plus received a donation to help keep their volunteer mentoring programme running, which provides young people facing tough times with a safe space and activities to help them thrive, regardless of their financial situation. And grants for individuals included funding for a new stroller to assist a child with developmental challenges and a person with cerebral palsy was given funding for a glove to improve hand function and support recovery, making a huge difference to their ability to perform everyday activities. Over the years, larger charities, including our regional air ambulances of Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset, the RNLI, and Young Lives vs Cancer have also received donations. Piers Thompson, Chair of the St Austell Brewery Charitable Trust, said: “Thanks to the dedication of our team members, individuals, and partners, we are encouraging communities and charities to apply for a grant to ensure the Trust continues to enhance and improve lives across the South West." “We’re proud to donate to causes large and small and that’s what makes the Trust so unique. Whether you are an individual in need of home equipment to make life easier, or a small regional CIC running a life-enhancing project, the funding is there to help people and communities who need it the most.” Piers added: “We’re very grateful to those who have contributed to the success of last year’s fundraising efforts. There are lots of exciting plans in place to continue the fundraising momentum during 2025.” Last year, St Austell Brewery hosted its annual Celtic Beer Festival—the largest charitable beer festival of its kind —with all profits donated to the Trust. The event in November saw more than 1,300 revellers descend on the brewery for a day of great beer and live music, raising an impressive £12,000. Another successful event organised by St Austell Brewery during 2024 was a Charitable Gala evening, which featured a silent auction and raised an additional £47,000. To apply for a grant from the St Austell Brewery Charitable Trust, or read more about the causes or charities it has already supported, visit here . In parallel to actively seeking applications for grants, the Trust is also recruiting for two new independent trustees to join its board and to help support the work it does for communities across the region.

Lidl, one of the largest retailers, and WWF, one of the world’s largest independent conservation organisations, announced the start of a new five-year international and strategic partnership active in 31 countries. The long-term cooperation with WWF will focus on working along Lidl’s value chain, thereby helping to address the global ecological challenges of our time, ensuring that more households have access to more sustainable choices and encouraging business models that work in harmony with nature and within planetary boundaries. The partnership is a new cornerstone in the commitment to sustainability that Lidl has been driving forward for years as part of its international sustainability strategy. The common goal of this partnership is to enable customers to make even more sustainable choices. “Joining forces“ Christoph Pohl, Chief Purchasing Officer at Lidl International commented: “In our role as one of the largest food retailers, we are aware of our responsibility and our influence. We take responsibility with the aim of doing business within planetary boundaries. For Lidl, sustainable management is not only a question of attitude, but also the basis for the future viability of our business model." "With the support and expertise of WWF, we will now take our commitment to sustainability to the next level. We can only overcome major global challenges such as climate change and nature loss by working together. That's why we believe in strong partnerships to work together to provide more sustainable choices.” Kirsten Schuijt, Director General WWF International, adds: “The way we produce and consume food and energy is one of the leading drivers of nature loss and climate change. In order to halt and reverse what is the biggest crisis facing humanity today, we need bold and urgent actions towards changing our food and energy systems, and the food and retail sector has a big role to play in driving this change." "As one of the largest retailers, Lidl has enormous international leverage to drive sustainable change in the food and retail industry. WWF is proud to accompany Lidl on this journey on which we will both support and challenge the retailer.” Acting stronger together in 31 countries This latest development follows last year’s announcement that Lidl GB had become the first discount supermarket to sign WWF’s Retailers’ Commitment for Nature – an agreement to work with WWF to halve the environmental impact of UK shopping baskets by 2030. Lidl and WWF have also been working together already across other individual markets, for example in Switzerland and Austria, over the last few years. The new partnership expands the scope of this work globally, to accelerate sustainability at an international level. Lidl has set itself the goal of making sustainable shopping even easier for its customers worldwide in the future and to work together with WWF to provide more sustainable choices and thus actively shape the sustainable transformation. The partnership with WWF will support this goal through focusing on the following key areas: Conservation and promotion of biodiversity Responsible management of water resources Climate protection through science-based climate targets Building and expanding traceable, deforestation-free and conversion-free supply chains Responsible sourcing of critical raw materials such as palm oil, soy, cocoa, tea, coffee, wood, and paper products Responsible sourcing of fish and seafood and safeguarding of critical fishing grounds and stocks Engaging in advocacy for more conscious, sustainable diets and consumption Reduction of food waste In addition to Lidl’s engagement along its own value chain, the company will support various WWF conservation projects to help protect the environment in regions it sources from. Above Photo: Thomas Vellacott, CEO WWF CH, Christoph Pohl, Head of Purchasing Lidl International and Kirsten Schuijt, Director General WWF International (from left) // Photo: WWF

Curating spaces for wellness takes centre stage in the Balcony and Container Gardens category at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show. With gardens taking inspiration from colour therapy and connecting to water to evoke tranquillity, each garden in the category is celebrating ways in which we can take care of ourselves through gardening. Psychology of colour has been integral in the design process for MS Amlin Peace of Mind Garden by Hamzah-Adam Desai, with planting and design referencing a colour wheel. Shades of green feature prominently throughout the garden, commonly associated with nature and wellbeing, producing a calm and restorative atmosphere, reducing stress, improving cognitive function and enhancing creativity. Purples and blues are used to invoke peace and harmony while reds, yellows and oranges are energising and uplifting to boost confidence and stimulate appetite. Exploring the connection between humans and water through the ‘blue mind’, the Navium Marine: Blue Mind Garden designed by Ashleigh Aylett curates a sense of calm from being close to water. Coastal planting offers resilient flora in muted blue and green tones, whilst floor tiles and pots created from discarded seashells from restaurants repurposes ocean materials. Ripple-effect cladding mimics the flow of water, reflecting light in wave-like forms, whilst a water feature creates soothing sounds beside a reflective pool. Freddie Strickland and Ben Gifford’s A Space to Read Balcony Garden sponsored by Viking, and the Room to Breathe Hospital Garden for the TSA by Jen Donnelly and Catherine Gibbon both offer tranquil sanctuaries designed to foster calm and renewal. The former invites visitors to escape daily stresses and connect with nature, with a biophilic design centred around a magnificent flowering Cornus kousa. Meanwhile the latter garden serves as a restorative retreat for caregivers, featuring a soothing palette of greens and whites symbolizing tranquillity, with splashes of burgundy representing resilience. An angled pergola subtly reflects life’s challenges and the journey toward realignment, offering solace in nature’s embrace. Inspired by a biophilic design that harmonises with nature, Secret Base – The another green room is a hideaway where beautiful trees and the sound of water soothe visitors and awaken their senses for relaxation and a source of imaginative possibilities. The garden is designed by Jun Ishihara, son of renowned RHS Chelsea Flower Show garden designer, Kazuyuki Ishihara. Also providing inspiration on how even the smallest outdoor spaces can be transformed into gardens that serve as a refuge is the Fettercairn Wilderness Retreat by Sally Giles, Sonia Kamel and Helier Bowling. Surrounded by wild and verdant planting reminiscent of the Cairngorms landscape, it echoes the grassy heathland, rocky outcrops and mossy glens where visitors can connect with the extreme elements to improve resilience. From the Scottish wilds to the Japanese forests of Nagano, the Komorebi Garden by Masa Taniguchi creates a magical experience of light piercing through a tree canopy and features a series of birch trees to create dappled shade and shimmering light. Tiny is mighty in the C6 garden by Joshua Fenton where carbon sequestration, water recycling and wildlife gardening create a calming sophisticated space. The garden can slow down and store 450 litres of rainwater in its passively irrigating reservoirs and sequester 1200 kilograms of carbon with elements like bio char that improves soil and takes carbon out of the atmosphere for up to 1000 years. Serving as a sanctuary to unwind from the fast-paced dynamic of modern life, The ME + EM City Garden by Caroline and Peter Clayton has been designed for the working woman. Planters clad in moss green and soft pink bejmat tiles are overflowing with planting designed to catch the soft glow of the late afternoon sun—offering a soothing retreat for the senses.

Whipsnade Zoo’s trio of Northern African lion cubs have been pictured taking their first exploratory steps outside, under the watchful eye of their mother Winta. The nine-week-old cubs appeared tentative at first, but with a little encouragement from mum, were soon spotted chasing each other and playfighting in the grass in their paddock. The cubs, born on 25 November 2024, have so far spent their time cosied up in their indoor den with mum, with their precious early moments monitored on the zoo’s hidden ‘cubcam’. Whilst the cubs were exploring, the keepers noticed one of them avoiding putting weight onto its back right leg. The cub is being closely monitored by vets to keep track of how the leg is faring as the cub grows, but are happy to have seen some improvements already. The three cubs – who will be sexed at their first health check next week - are vitally important for protecting the lineage of their sadly threatened sub-species, which was only officially recognised in 2017, and will be part of a meticulously planned breeding programme to ensure the insurance population of Northern African lions is genetically healthy. Visitors to the ZSL conservation Zoo may now be able to catch a glimpse of Winta and her cubs as they get used to their new surroundings. Every visit to Whipsnade Zoo supports the work of ZSL’s conservation teams to protect and restore wildlife around the world. Photos: Whipsnade Zoo’s three north African lion cubs take their first steps outside with mother Winta ©Whipsnade Zoo

Reconomy, the leading international circular economy specialist, has announced that it has strengthened its technology capabilities through the appointment of Jenny Dodsworth as Group Programme & Delivery Director to its Technology Leadership Team, and commits to a major capital investment in excess of £10 million in 2025 to accelerate product development. This will support the execution of Reconomy’s strategic priorities and strengthen its competitive advantage. Appointment of Jenny Dodsworth as Group Programme & Delivery Director Jenny Dodsworth is a highly-experienced senior Programme Director with a proven track record of implementing major transformation and organisational change projects at FTSE 100 companies across different sectors. She has extensive expertise in digital and customer roadmap management, business case inception and delivery. Jenny has previously held senior programme roles at leading international businesses including Capita, Merlin Entertainments, Virgin Atlantic and Argos, implementing large scale ERPs including customer and digital strategies. She was most recently at A2Dominion, a housing association, where she oversaw improvement transformations across procurement, finance and property functions impacting people, processes and technology. In this role, Jenny shaped, directed and led a major multi-million pound D365 transformation programme, the largest in Europe at the time, before leaving to join Reconomy. In her new role, she will report into Jody Fullman, Chief Information Officer, and work closely with him and also the Change and Transformation team led by James Skeet, Director of Group Change and Transformation, to drive technology change programmes across Reconomy. She will also play a major role in supporting Reconomy’s strategy to scale across North America and integrate newly acquired companies in this market. Technology strategy and capital investment Reconomy is in the midst of a period of rapid growth as it takes advantage of the highly attractive opportunities in the international circular economy. With the world currently consuming more resources than can be replenished, businesses are increasingly recognising the economic imperative of embracing circularity to preserve precious materials and cut waste. In the last six years Reconomy has acquired c.30 brands and technology is critical to transforming its operations to deliver on the strategic priorities of attaining leading positions in its core markets and scaling across North America. The Company’s technology strategy consists of three key elements: 1. Streamlining Reconomy’s back office operations . Key projects include providing its 4,000- strong workforce with unified ways of working and collaborating, unlocking the power of Reconomy by being able to work together seamlessly and globally irrespective of the location, brand or loop. 2. Platform and data product consolidations. Key projects include centralising the data required to support the Comply loop, creating a single data platform to help businesses meet the requirements of global Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and the creation of a single platform to serve all of Reconomy’s Recycle brands in the UK. 3. New product development to sustain organic growth and build new products to facilitate entry into new markets. Powering this strategy is RecoTek, Reconomy’s technology scaling centre and in-house delivery capability. Launched last year, this centre now employs over 130 people and is focused on accelerating product development by adding additional extensive capabilities to Reconomy’s existing and deeply talented technology teams. To support these strategic initiatives, Reconomy intends to invest over £10 million this year. Guy Wakeley, Chief Executive of Reconomy, commented: “Technology is one of our greatest competitive advantages and is the driving force behind our rapid growth. In less than a year, Jody and his team have established a world-class technology scaling centre that will enable us to deliver on our strategic priorities and provide circular economy led solutions to our customers, helping them unlock commercial opportunities and deliver cost efficiencies. I look forward to seeing Jenny make an invaluable contribution to our technology and growth agendas." Jody Fullman, Chief Information Officer, said: “This is a truly exciting time to be leading technology at Reconomy. As our business continues to experience exceptional growth, our global technology function plays a critical and strategic role in transforming the products and capabilities across our acquired brands to operate as one international team, driving operational excellence and creating opportunities to enter into new markets." "I am delighted that Jenny has joined my leadership team. With her proven track record of driving commercial success and numerous large scale transformations, she is a perfect fit to support the delivery of our technology change programmes.” Jenny Dodsworth as Group Programme & Delivery Director, said: “I am excited to have joined Reconomy with its excellent track record and clear purpose to enable the circular economy for its customers. I look forward to working closely with Jody and the senior leadership teams to drive major change programmes across the organisation to capitalise on the opportunities ahead of us and create a more sustainable world.”