Funding for programmes to drive innovation in logistics and encourage young people into the sector must be included in the Government’s upcoming spending review, the UK Warehousing Association. In a submission to the Treasury, the leading membership body for the warehousing industry called for the Generation Logistics programme, which has been supported by the Department for Transport to change perceptions of careers in the area, to be extended. The UKWA also called for the Freight Innovation Fund, which provides up to £150,000 to companies to test out productivity-enhancing technologies in real-world settings, to be included in the Government’s long term spending plans. Both measures would help towards achieving the missions set out by the Prime Minister is his ‘Plan for Change’, of which the first is kickstarting economic growth, the UKWA argued. The warehousing sector contributes over £28bn to the economy, employs 400,000 people, and is relied upon by both businesses and the public sector to keep supply chains working. Recent changes announced by the Chancellor to remove barriers from the planning system and encourage regulators to have a more pro-growth outlook were praised by the trade body, but further action was called for to reduce bureaucratic delay when it came to customs approvals, planning, and the business rates system. Clare Bottle, CEO of the UK Warehousing Association, said: “This is the moment for the Government to embrace warehousing and logistics as an engine for growth. Whether it’s raising GDP, creating opportunities for young people, or simply making sure the NHS functions, our members will be essential to delivering their missions." “Ours is a highly competitive sector, operating often on tight margins, and it normally doesn’t ask much from government. Warehouses aren’t simply the physical hub for goods, they’re a litmus test for the UK’s attractiveness as a place to invest. With targeted support for innovation and skills, and continued progress on reducing barriers, we are confident that warehousing can play a central role in driving the UK forward.”

Williams Racing is pleased to confirm that F1 World Champion Jenson Button and Jamie Chadwick will continue as ambassadors for the team for the 2025 season, with 1997 Drivers’ Champion Jacques Villeneuve joining the line-up, further strengthening the connection between the team’s celebrated history and its ambitious future. Jacques secured Williams’ most recent Drivers’ Championship title in 1997 and returns to the team as it continues to transform in pursuit of a return to the front of the grid. His F1 title came in just his second year in the sport, two years after he lifted the IndyCar championship trophy; one of only four drivers to have achieved titles in both of these series. He secured seven Grand Prix victories in 1997, finishing the championship on almost double the points of his nearest competitor, his Williams team-mate Heinz-Harald Frentzen. Jenson, who made his F1 debut with Williams in 2000, celebrates the 25th anniversary of that milestone this year; the same year that F1 itself celebrates its 75th year. Jenson rejoined the Williams family in 2019, twinning his involvement with the team that gave him his start with a successful sportscar racing and broadcasting career. Jamie, a three-time W Series champion and Indy NXT race winner, has been part of the Williams Racing family since 2019. Williams provided Jamie with her first opportunity of driving an F1 car, when she took to the wheel of Keke Rosberg’s FW08C at the 2023 Goodwood Festival of Speed. In addition to her position as an ambassador, she also fulfils the role of F1 Academy Adviser where, for the second year running, she will support Lia Block as she continues her early career in single-seaters. James Vowles, Team Principal: “It’s a privilege to have Jenson, Jacques and Jamie with the team for 2025. Together they are the perfect representation of this iconic team: the history we have made, our proud tradition of investing in future champions and opening up access to motorsport, and our ambition and determination to make history again." "Jenson and Jacques made their F1 debuts with Williams and went on to become World Champions, while Jamie has broken boundaries for women in motorsport as a Williams Racing driver and mentor to Lia. We are delighted to have them as part of the next chapter in Williams’ story.” Jacques Villeneuve commented: “Williams has been a crucial part of my life, filled with fond memories. I am ecstatic to be part of the family again, and to help celebrate the team’s heritage while supporting its future.” Jenson Button commented: “Williams gave me my first shot in Formula 1, and it’s incredible to be celebrating 25 years since that debut this year. Being an ambassador for this team is a privilege, and I’m excited to continue contributing to its legacy and future.” Jamie Chadwick said: “Williams has been a huge part of my career and journey in motorsport over the last four years. I’m proud to continue representing the team in 2025, challenging myself to keep developing as a driver and helping to mentor the next generation of racers coming through F1 Academy.”

Total private equity investment activity in the UK rose by 4.4% in 2024, with deal values increasing to their highest level for two years, according to the latest UK Private Equity Review from KPMG UK. This increase was as a result of a more stable economic climate, with interest rates and inflation falling; greater political certainty following elections in the UK, and a surge in transactions ahead of anticipated changes to Capital Gains Tax. The comprehensive annual study into private equity deal activity has revealed that 1,699 transactions, with a total value of £158.9 billion were completed during 2024, which represents an almost 12% increase in deal values from 2023. The majority of deal activity took place in the second half of the year, with values increasing to their highest level since the first half of 2022. Commenting on the findings, Alex Hartley, Head of Corporate Finance at KPMG UK, said: “There are encouraging signs from the 2024 data that deal activity may have bottomed out in the UK in 2023, as we saw activity, both in volume and value, pick up last year. In particular, we saw significant activity in the second half of the year as many business owners tried to get ahead of expected changes to Capital Gains Tax." “Given the current signals in the market around increased activity levels – alongside reducing inflation and interest rates and greater political certainty – there is cautious optimism that UK private equity deal activity will see further growth through 2025 and 2026.” UK mid-market activity: Mid-market private equity deal volumes rose to their highest level in more than three years in the second half of 2024, across the year volumes were up 15.5% on the year previous. However, while volumes were up, overall deal value was down 9.1% to £44 billion. This is due to a combination of smaller deal sizes, with privately owned businesses pushing through deals ahead of the Autumn Budget and a rumoured increase in Capital Gains Tax, and an increase in bolt-on investments - 2024 saw a 17.5% increase, year-on-year, in the volume of bolt-on investments across the UK mid-market. Jonathan Read, Head of Mid-Market Private Equity at KPMG UK, commented: “While improving market conditions and political stability were important factors in building confidence in the deal market through 2024, anticipation of potential changes to Capital Gains Tax rates in October’s Budget led many entrepreneurs to de-risk at the end of 2024. This led to a surge in deals, particularly in the mid-market where we saw privately owned business looking to realise their assets ahead of any proposed changes." “We expect this theme to continue as the future outlook of Capital Gains Tax in the UK comes back into focus as we approach this year’s Budget.” Sector Insight - TMT saw greatest growth, while others punched above their weight: Business services dominated the private equity deal market, representing 43% of the total deals made in 2024, up more than 10% over the previous year. However, it was TMT which emerged as the hottest sector. Deal volumes were up nearly 19% year-on-year and cumulative values were up nearly 58% over the same period, capturing more than £40 billion in total deal value. While deal volumes were both down in Financial Services and the Energy sector, the value of those deals was greater than their sum. Financial services represented 11% of the deals, but 14.6% of the value, while energy represented 3% of the deals, but 4.7% of the overall value, indicating that they were both punching above their weight. Another sector that saw a resurgence was Consumer Goods and Retail, with volumes up 5.3% to 138 and values up 21% to £10.7 billion, reflecting improving consumer confidence through the year. Naveen Sharma, UK Head of Private Equity at KPMG UK added: “While business services will remain the largest part of the UK market, we expect to see continued growth in the TMT sector as companies drive their digitisation efforts. The energy sector may also become particularly interesting to private equity funds as the UK ramps up investment into renewables.” 2025 outlook for private equity: Alex Hartley, Head of Corporate Finance at KPMG UK, concludes: “We anticipate deal activity to continue to pick up through 2025 and 2026. Platform and buy-and-build deals will likely continue to dominate the deals markets as private equity investors seek to drive growth through strategic bolt-ons, particularly in the Business Services and TMT sectors." “At the same time, we expect to see increased activity in the energy sector as investors focus on increased government investment and the continued emphasis on the energy transition.”

The LEGO Group have announced a DKK 19 million commitment towards four carbon removal projects in partnership with Climate Impact Partners and ClimeFi. The initiatives will support biochar, enhanced rock weathering and reforestation and will deliver carbon removal credits between 2024 and 2026. They will expand the company’s portfolio of carbon removal initiatives which includes a partnership with Climeworks direct air capture and storage solution. By building this portfolio, the LEGO Group is developing its understanding of emerging carbon removal and climate mitigation approaches beyond its value chain and how best to support them. KIRKBI, the family-owned holding and investment company behind the LEGO® brand, has also made commitments valued at DKK 5 million with the same initiatives. Annette Stube, Chief Sustainability Officer at the LEGO Group, said: "We are proud to support these climate initiatives which we believe will have a positive impact on the wider environmental ecosystem. Innovative, high-quality carbon removal projects and emerging technologies have the potential to play an important role in supporting a more sustainable future, while reforestation has the potential to support improved biodiversity." "These partnerships allow us to build our understanding of new technologies and practices to support a healthy planet for future generations.”    Engineered Solutions: Biochar and Enhanced Rock Weathering  In partnership with ClimeFi, the LEGO Group is supporting two biochar initiatives and one enhanced rock weathering solution. Biochar carbon removal involves turning waste biomass into biochar, a process which stabilises carbon and stores it long-term. Enhanced rock weathering speeds up the natural process of rock weathering, by spreading rock powder over agricultural fields, permanently removing carbon from the atmosphere. Both solutions have additional benefits beyond carbon sequestration, notably for improving soil health. Paolo Piffaretti, Co-Founder and CEO at ClimeFi said: “We're excited to partner with the LEGO Group on this robust and durable carbon removal portfolio. The projects were carefully chosen based on ClimeFi's strict quality standards and underwent thorough technical review." "The LEGO Group’s early adoption of these high-quality carbon removal solutions will help catalyse the growth of the Carbon Dioxide Removal industry and help achieve our shared climate goals.” Nature-Based Solutions: Reforestation in Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley  The LEGO Group has partnered with Climate Impact Partners in support of the large-scale reforestation project in the Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley (USA) through the purchase of carbon credits. The project is being developed and managed by the GreenTrees platform and aims to reforest more than 400,000 hectares (one million acres), in a region that has experienced significant deforestation. Reforestation aims to enhance biodiversity, restore ecosystems and remove carbon from the atmosphere. The project also aims to enhance flood protection, protecting against hurricanes and flood damage, and improve water quality in the Mississippi River by reducing nutrient run-off. Sheri Hickok, CEO, Climate Impact Partners, said: “We are proud to partner with the LEGO Group on its climate action ambitions, helping to turn them to tangible impact. This is a leading example of how the private sector can drive real impact – taking steps to reduce value chain emissions and simultaneously channelling finance to solutions, like reforestation, that deliver beyond value chain impact.” A holistic approach to sustainability   The LEGO Group remains dedicated to reducing greenhouse gas emissions within its value chain, focused on minimising the carbon footprint at every stage. The company’s efforts to explore solutions outside its value chain, align with its goal to support the global transition to net zero.

Yorkshire-based wool bedding brand, Floks, has partnered with fellow luxury Yorkshire bedmaker, Harrison Spinks, to create a premium range of responsibly-sourced wool mattresses. United by a shared passion for ethical manufacturing, quality, and support for British farming, the collaboration combines Floks’ expertise in sustainable wool bedding with Harrison Spinks’ heritage in crafting mattresses from natural materials. This collaboration represents a new benchmark in wool-rich sleep solutions that prioritise comfort and the environment – all handmade in Yorkshire. Floks is dedicated to providing the best night’s sleep possible while supporting British farming and local manufacturing. Specialising in wool bedding, the brand’s products are naturally hypoallergenic, temperature regulating, and biodegradable, making it an ideal partnership to complement Harrison Spinks’ responsibly made wool and hemp mattresses. Harrison Spinks is a fifth-generation luxury bedmaker based in Leeds, and has been handcrafting mattresses and beds in Yorkshire since 1840. As one of the most vertically integrated bed manufacturers in the world, the company controls every aspect of production, from growing hemp and flax on its Yorkshire farm to designing unique recyclable pocket spring-systems in-house. Sophie Platts, Founder and CEO of Floks, said: "For us, the key is working closely with Harrison Spinks to complete the fully ethical sleep story. We exist to help people enjoy their very best sleep in the most responsible way, and these products we have created together offer the ideal sleep microclimate to promote healthier and more restorative sleep." “The fact we’re both based in Yorkshire and are passionate about utilising wool to improve sleep is incredible, and we feel so excited about the potential of our partnership. Wool is a miraculous fibre, offering both comfort whilst being regenerative, and together we are creating a stand-out product that not only supports British farming but offers a truly luxurious and environmentally responsible sleep experience." Wool fibres are naturally absorbent, durable and antibacterial, producing a sumptuous, breathable and temperature-regulating mattress filling that keeps the body cool, dry and comfortable. The material is extremely beneficial for sleep, helping to create the perfect microclimate, being dust-mite and mould resistant, as well as anti-allergy. It is also naturally fire-retardant, meaning the mattresses don’t need to be treated with potentially harmful FR chemicals, as they are encased in a flame-resistant wool fabric which is woven in-house at Harrison Spinks. Nick Booth, Managing Director at Harrison Spinks Beds, added: "Floks is another Yorkshire brand that shares our ethos and passion for responsible sourcing, ethical manufacturing and quality." “At Harrison Spinks we’ve always championed the use of natural materials like wool and hemp in our mattresses, and with this collection we’re crafting a sleep experience that prioritises comfort and health whilst respecting the environment. Yorkshire has a rich heritage in textiles and manufacturing, and collaborations like this showcase the very best our region has to offer.” The mattress collection has been created with traceable British wool in partnership with British Wool and its Traceable Wool Scheme, which supports UK farmers in getting a premium price for their product and ensures a transparent supply chain, further supporting low-impact farming and manufacturing in the UK.

The food manufacturing industry, which contributes £162 billion to the economy and supports over 4.5 million jobs, has joined forces like never before to urge the Treasury to rethink changes to inheritance tax announced at the Budget. Led by the NFU, a letter from the food supply chain, which includes all major supermarket retailers, has voiced concerns about the government’s plan to scrap Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR). The coalition warns that removing these reliefs threatens the long-term stability of the nation's food resilience, which relies on continued investment to futureproof sustainable food production, at a time when the government has stated that food security is national security. It also highlights the barriers the changes could cause for boosting growth and productivity in the sector and tackling diet-related health issues. NFU President Tom Bradshaw said: “We have made our views on this awful family farm tax very clear. Now so have 57 other businesses across the food supply chain. This abhorrent policy has united farming and the whole of the supply chain like never before. How loud does the chorus of concern around the policy have to be for Treasury to listen and take action?" “Scrapping critical inheritance tax reliefs not only affects family-run farms, but it stands to have far-reaching consequences for the whole industry, from food processors to supermarket retailers." “Faced with a backdrop of global instability, a changing climate, high input costs and a growing global population to feed, this policy risks destabilising an industry that is vital to feeding the nation and one that supports millions of jobs. Because when one link in a supply chain, the link that is producing the raw materials, has a crisis of confidence and has already all but stopped investment, it has an impact on the whole of the industry; an impact that will eventually be felt on supermarket shelves. Is this the vision for economic growth the country was promised? “The Chancellor has said she has seen no alternative proposals put forward, yet there have been solutions put forward by tax experts and Labour MPs. With large numbers of Britain’s biggest manufacturing sector – food and drink – against this policy, it is time for the Chancellor to heed our calls to meet to discuss options and find a way forward out of this current mess.” Signatories from the food industry include: NFU NFU Cymru NFU Scotland UFU Morrisons Asda Marks & Spencer Waitrose Lidl Sainsbury’s Tesco Aldi Co-op Arla Muller Yeo Valley ABP Rodda’s County Milk Belton Farm Paynes Dairy Organic Herd Long Clawson RABDF PTF Dairy UK First Milk Meadow Cotteswold Dunbia Kepak Pickstock (Telford) Myton Food Group Cranswick Dovecote Park 2 Sisters Food Group Puffin Produce Castell Howell Foyle Food Group C&J Meats WD Meats Hewitt Meats Pembrokeshire Creamery Leprino South Caernarfon Creameries Laeth y Llan Cyf/Village Dairy Calon Wen Dairy Crediton Dairy Bawnbua Foods NI NIMEA Dale Farm Fane Valley Ready Eggs Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association Pilgrims Photo: NFU President Tom Bradshaw signing a Stop the Family Farm Tax poster

Azets, the international business advisory group, is pleased to announce the appointment of Richard Yerbury to its Executive Committee as Group Chief Operating Officer (COO). Richard is a seasoned business leader, with 25 years’ experience in senior roles within professional services. He has spent the past decade with insurance specialist Charles Taylor, most recently as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Charles Taylor Claims Solutions – International. He was also Global Chair of Charles Taylor Adjusting and served as Group COO between 2020 and 2022. Prior to joining Charles Taylor, Richard worked at Bain and Company as a Principal in the Financial Services team, working on growth and transformation strategy for insurers, banks and private equity clients. He previously worked for Lloyds Banking Group and has a Master's degree in Manufacturing Engineering from the University of Cambridge. As Group COO, Richard will lead Azets’ group operations team across the UK, Ireland, Norway, Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Romania and Estonia. He will also provide leadership to Azets’ Business Unit CEOs and Nordic COO, Arne Norheim, with a focus on ensuring operational efficiency and continued high performance as the Group keeps growing at pace in line with its five-year plan to double in size to £1bn+ by 2027. Richard Yerbury, newly appointed Azets Group COO, commented: “I’m thrilled to join Azets during this phase of its growth journey and to keep building on the great platform the Group has established. My focus is on continuing to deliver efficiencies and operational excellence that enable our people to do a great job for our clients." "Azets is a purpose-led organisation, and it’s important that as we grow at scale, we have the right strategy in tools in place to ensure we can improve the lives of our colleagues, clients, and communities, in a sustainable way. Azets’ strength is clearly in its people and the quality of its services, and I immediately saw a strong cultural fit." Richard is the latest senior appointment to Azets’ Group Executive Committee, following Paula Darvell, who joined Azets as Group Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) in October 2024, and Neil Martin, whose role as Interim Group Chief Financial Officer (CFO) was confirmed as permanent in the same month. Chris Horne, Azets Group CEO, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Richard to Azets Group. Richard’s wealth of experience in leading complex operations and driving transformation across international markets will be invaluable as we continue to execute our ambitious growth strategy and deliver sustained outcomes for our clients. Richard’s strong focus on operational excellence and cultural alignment makes him an excellent addition to the leadership team, and I look forward to working closely with him.” Azets was launched seven years ago in response to the digitalisation of financial compliance processes for businesses and their owners. It is backed by leading private equity investors PAI and Hg. The Group has grown to become one of the largest tech-enabled providers of business advisory, financial and accounting services globally.

National Apprenticeship Week, running from 10th–14th February, is a time to celebrate apprentices and their contribution to businesses across the UK. It’s also the perfect chance to find out more about apprenticeships – whether you’re considering doing one or you know someone who is. Statistics published during last year’s National Apprenticeship Week revealed a growth in the number of people undertaking higher apprenticeships, with starts increasing by 6.2%. Advanced apprenticeships are also extremely popular, accounting for almost 44% of all apprenticeship starts. With the majority of apprenticeships in recent years taken on by people aged 25 and up, it’s clear that the idea of apprenticeships only being relevant for those just leaving school is shifting to include a wider range of applicants. However, annual spending on Level 2 apprenticeships has dropped by over £200 million in recent years. One business that is bucking the trend when it comes to these figures is national painting and decorating company Bagnalls, taking on over 70 new Level 2 entrants during the last two years. Bagnalls provides sustainable, high-quality careers for those just starting out in the world of work. The company has also been nominated no less than three times at this year’s Apprenticeship and Training Awards. During National Apprenticeship Week, Bagnalls’ Group Marketing Director, Joanne Gualda, will be joined by HR Director Ellie Jobes and Group Academy Tutor Joel Mortlock at the Houses of Parliament in recognition of the company’s nominations. The three Bagnalls representatives will enjoy an event hosted by Speaker, Sir Lindsay Hoyle MP. It’s clear that the dedication and success levels of apprentices only continue to rise. Bagnalls has seen incredible success among their most recent intake of apprentices, with many of them winning prestigious and notable awards. Bagnalls apprentice Matthew Clayton has won no less than three awards in recent months! He was named Apprentice Painting and Decorating Student of the Year at the York College Construction Awards and Apprentice of the Year at the 2024 REACH Awards. Matthew also took home the York Guild of Building’s Bronze Award. Contracts Manager at Bagnalls, Andy Holt, commented: “Matty has done some fantastic work during his time with us and I’m thrilled that he’s receiving the recognition he deserves!” Another high achiever at Bagnalls is Max Rollinson, who recently won a regional award in the Rising Star category at the National Apprenticeship and Skills Awards. Max is in the process of completing a Management Trainee apprenticeship with Bagnalls, furnishing him with the skills to manage clients, contracts and more. “Max has shown great dedication and determination throughout his apprenticeship with us,” Ellie Jobes says. “It’s fantastic to see that those outside of our organisation are noticing his talent as well.” The Leeds College of Building BIG Awards celebration was another big night for Bagnalls, with four of their apprentices taking home titles. Katie Sanders was named Painting and Decorating Apprentice of the Year, while Khiara Anderson took home the prestigious Principal’s Award. Faith Loynes was awarded the Multi-Skills Student of the Year Award, while Owen Sheldon was named Apprentice of the Year across all disciplines. Kirsty Stokes, HR and Learning Development Advisor at Bagnalls attended the ceremony alongside the four winners. She said, “I’m so proud of all our apprentices! They have each achieved exceptional milestones in their young careers and I can’t wait to see their skills grow and develop." “They should each be very proud of themselves and shout about their excellent awards from the rooftops!” The Painting and Decorating Association’s Junior Apprentice competition was also a successful night for Bagnalls apprentices. Willow Patey was named overall winner of the junior section, with Owen Sheldon taking home the runner-up title. Joel said, “It’s been great to see Willow and Owen’s talent in action during their apprenticeships and it’s lovely that their dedication and hard work is being rewarded. They both show exceptional promise and I’m sure they have fantastic careers ahead of them.” This is just a small snapshot of the recent awards won by Bagnalls apprentices, showcasing the company’s reputation for attracting talented, dedicated and hard-working apprentices. Bagnalls was recently ‘Highly Commended’ regionally at the National Apprenticeship and Skills Awards 2024 for the second year in a row, thanks to their apprenticeship scheme. The company also won the Best Apprenticeship in Construction award at the first-ever Apprenticeship Guide Awards last year – celebrating the excellent opportunities and support that Bagnalls provides its apprentices. Stephen Bagnall, Group Managing Director at Bagnalls, said, “We strive to provide our apprentices with real-world experience, alongside bespoke training via our Training Academy. It’s fantastic to see so many of our apprentices achieve such success – a testament to their hard work and determination." “As we enter our 150th year as a business, it’s brilliant to know that the next generation of painters and decorators are enjoying such success.”

London's beloved board game bar and restaurant, DRAUGHTS London, is marking a decade of fun and entertainment by announcing the launch of its third venue. The latest establishment (set to open in Spring 2025) is situated in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and promises to offer patrons a unique dining and gaming experience. Boasting a sprawling total of 4,110 square feet, with 3,540 internally and an additional 570 square feet externally, this new location is sure to become a prime destination for both intimate gatherings and lively social events. Guests can unwind on the covered terrace, which offers stunning views overlooking the iconic London Stadium and the serene Waterworks River. The venue features ample seating with room for over 150 guests indoors, spread across two floors, and an additional 40+ seats available outside. With a clear vision and a foundation built on a decade of success, the founder of DRAUGHTS, Nick Curci, expressed his enthusiasm for this expansion and hinted at exciting plans for growth and investment over the next three years. "We are thrilled to introduce our third venue to the vibrant Park and East Bank community, and we are committed to providing an exceptional experience for all our guests," remarked Nick. "Looking ahead, we are excited to explore new avenues for expansion and innovation, ensuring that DRAUGHTS remains a leading player in the board game and hospitality industry." A new powerhouse for creativity, innovation, and learning, East Bank is destined to become a cultural and educational hub that combines the best of the city’s entertainment, shops, and restaurants. Joining the BBC, London College of Fashion; UAL, Sadler’s Wells, UCL East and the V&A East, Nick comments, “Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park was the standout location for our latest venue, offering both bustling neighbourhood trade and high visitor numbers as part of its destination status. Add in the comprehensive events calendar at the London Stadium and East Bank, and it makes a compelling business case.” Director of Stratford Waterfront Retail Management Company, Mark Camley, adds “We are delighted to welcome Draughts on board as the first retail tenant at Stratford Waterfront. Their unique board game restaurant and bar offer will be a compelling draw complementing the five other high-quality food and beverage outlets opening soon.” Fans of DRAUGHTS can now look forward to another remarkable destination to enjoy their favourite games, delectable dishes, and a welcoming atmosphere that has become synonymous with the brand. As the third venue prepares to open its doors, the brand's legacy continues to thrive, promising an exciting journey ahead for both existing devotees and newcomers alike.

Indian food has become as quintessentially British as a Sunday roast. From aromatic curries simmering in restaurants to ready-made meals in supermarket aisles, the growth of Indian cuisine in the UK is an extraordinary story of cultural exchange, innovation, and adaptation. What began as a culinary introduction brought over by Indian immigrants has evolved into a national obsession, creating a multi-billion-pound industry that continues to shape the UK’s culinary identity. Roots in Empire and Immigration The story of Indian food in the UK is deeply entwined with history, stretching back to the days of the British Empire in India. During the 18th and 19th centuries, British officers and administrators stationed in India were introduced to the rich and diverse flavours of Indian cooking. These culinary experiences returned with them, sparking an appetite for dishes like kedgeree, mulligatawny soup, and spiced chutneys, which were adapted for British palates. The first Indian restaurant in the UK, the Hindoostanee Coffee House, was established in London in 1810 by Sake Dean Mahomed, an Indian entrepreneur. Though short-lived, it marked the beginning of a love affair between Britain and Indian food. Over the following decades, as Indian merchants and seamen settled in British port cities, they opened small curry houses catering to their own communities and the adventurous locals. The post-World War II era saw a significant wave of Indian immigration, driven by the need for labour in Britain’s rebuilding efforts and the decolonization of the Indian subcontinent. With this migration came the establishment of family-run Indian restaurants, particularly in urban centres like London, Birmingham, Manchester, and Leicester. Initially aimed at serving the Indian and South Asian diaspora, these restaurants quickly began attracting a broader clientele, introducing Britons to dishes like tandoori chicken and rogan josh. The Curry Boom The late 20th century marked the golden age of Indian food in the UK. By the 1970s and 1980s, 'going for a curry' had become a national pastime. The widespread popularity of dishes like chicken tikka masala—a British invention inspired by Indian cooking—cemented the cuisine’s mainstream appeal. This dish, often called “Britain’s national dish,” epitomised the adaptation of Indian flavours to suit British tastes, combining creamy, tangy sauces with a mild spice profile. Indian restaurants flourished during this time, particularly those run by Bangladeshi families who dominated the curry house scene. High streets across the country became home to vibrant Indian eateries, ranging from casual takeaways to sit-down establishments with elaborate menus. The cuisine’s accessibility, affordability, and robust flavours made it a hit with a nation seeking exotic yet comforting food. Indian food also benefited from Britain’s pub culture, as spicy curries became the perfect accompaniment to a pint of beer. This era saw the rise of dishes like balti, a specialty from Birmingham that emphasized communal eating and customisable spice levels, and vindaloo, a fiery curry that became synonymous with culinary bravado. Reinvention and Diversification By the early 2000s, Indian food in the UK underwent a transformation. As Britons became more adventurous and travelled extensively, their tastes evolved, and they began seeking authenticity and regional diversity. The stereotype of Indian cuisine as 'just curry' began to fade as diners discovered the vast differences between the cuisines of Punjab, Kerala, Gujarat, and Bengal, among others. High-end Indian dining gained prominence during this period, with chefs like Atul Kochhar, Vineet Bhatia, and Asma Khan elevating the cuisine to new heights. Michelin-starred restaurants such as Tamarind and Gymkhana showcased refined techniques and innovative takes on traditional dishes, introducing diners to a more nuanced understanding of Indian flavours. At the same time, the street food movement brought regional Indian specialties like chaat, dosas, and kati rolls into the spotlight. Casual eateries and food trucks began serving these vibrant dishes, offering a taste of India’s bustling street markets to British customers. Chains like Dishoom, inspired by the Irani cafés of Bombay, became immensely popular for their blend of nostalgic charm and contemporary flair. The Home Cooking Revolution The availability of Indian ingredients and spices in British supermarkets has also fuelled the growth of Indian food. From jars of mango chutney to packs of garam masala, these once-exotic items are now pantry staples in many British homes. The popularity of cooking shows and celebrity chefs like Madhur Jaffrey and Anjum Anand introduced a generation of home cooks to Indian recipes, making the cuisine more accessible and less intimidating. This trend has only accelerated in recent years, with the rise of meal kits and online grocery services that deliver pre-measured ingredients for Indian dishes straight to customers’ doors. Combined with the proliferation of YouTube tutorials and social media influencers sharing Indian recipes, the barriers to cooking Indian food at home have never been lower. Challenges and Opportunities While Indian food has become a beloved part of British culture, the industry faces challenges. Traditional curry houses, many of which are family-run, have been hit hard by rising costs, labour shortages, and changing dining habits. Younger generations are increasingly drawn to fast-casual concepts and modern fusion eateries, leaving traditional restaurants struggling to compete. However, this evolution also presents opportunities. As the British palate becomes more sophisticated, there is growing demand for regional specialties and plant-based options, both of which are well-represented in Indian cuisine. From jackfruit biryani to vegan paneer alternatives, Indian food continues to adapt to contemporary trends while staying true to its roots. A Lasting Legacy The rise of Indian food in the UK is a testament to its enduring appeal and the deep cultural ties between the two nations. From its humble beginnings in immigrant communities to its current status as a mainstream favourite, Indian cuisine has shaped—and been shaped by—British tastes. Today, it is impossible to imagine British food culture without the vibrant flavours of India. As Indian cuisine continues to evolve, it serves as a reminder of the power of food to bridge cultures and create shared experiences. Whether it’s a humble takeaway curry or an elegant tasting menu, the influence of Indian food in the UK is both profound and lasting, reflecting a story of migration, innovation, and, above all, the universal love of good food.

As part of Wakefield’s upcoming Rhubarb Festival, the Art & Design Department at Wakefield College has teamed up with the Community Foundation Wakefield District to create an upcycled rhubarb-themed fashion exhibition. Level 3 Fashion & Textiles students were tasked with transforming clothes which were donated through the charity’s Community Give Box, designing pieces that resonate with the rhubarb theme. Year 2 students started the creative process with mood boards and samples that inspired the designs of their garments, which they had to make for a range of dress sizes. Research started with observations of the leaves and stems of rhubarb followed by further exploration into what can be created from the vegetable, with the students inspired by its textures, colours and how it is used in recipes. Year 1 Fashion & Textiles students also used pre-loved materials and donated items to make dolls and their clothing, utilising a range of textile techniques including dyeing, printing and embroidery. The students then further enhanced their display by introducing rhubarb stems, leaves and soil. This comes following the success of its previous Community Give Box project, which saw the students create fashionable garments using clothes donated to the charity shop. Sally Poskitt, Lecturer in Art & Design at Wakefield College, said: “Given the success of last year’s project, the students were really keen to work with Community Foundation Wakefield District again to showcase how pre-loved clothes can be upcycled to create garments which are on-trend." "It’s been fantastic to see how the students have used their creativity and expertise to transform donated materials into artful pieces which resonate with our local heritage, celebrating both sustainability and Wakefield’s beloved rhubarb.” Lisa Milburn, Executive Director at Community Foundation Wakefield District, said: “Fast fashion is one of the greatest contributors to global warming and at the heart of our partnership with Wakefield College is our mission to raise awareness of sustainability. We’re delighted to be able to bring this exhibition to the public with the support of Wakefield BID and Woodhead Investments.” The exhibition will be on display at Community Foundation Wakefield District in Cross Square in Wakefield from Thursday 13th February until Monday 24th February 2025. The Level 3 Fashion & Textiles course is designed for those who have a creative mind, want to develop their design knowledge and skills and have a real passion and desire to work in the creative industries.

Exciting young Leicester City midfielder Will Alves will spend the remainder of the 2024/25 season on loan at Cardiff City, subject to league approval. The 19-year-old Academy graduate, who joined us at Under-9s level, has gone from strength to strength, signing a new long-term deal in the summer and making his Premier League debut against Manchester City at King Power Stadium in December, 2024. Alves will now further his growth with the Sky Bet Championship side who are currently 19th in the table and next in action in the Emirates FA Cup on Saturday 8 February (3pm kick-off).