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Zoe Backstedt won her first under-23 world title in sensational style, dominating the field to take the win by one minute 50 seconds on her rivals, delivering Great Britain’s first medal on day two of the 2025 UCI Road World Championships. Millie Couzens also contested the under-23 women’s time-trial, finishing sixth overall, while Callum Thornley took a commendable fifth in the under-23 men’s event. Representing Great Britain on the road for the first time since doing the junior double in 2022, Backstedt came into the race with one clear goal and sprinted down the start ramp as if she were at the race’s end. Moving at pace in the first 10km, Backstedt hit the first time check in 16:17.30, banking an early lead of 16 seconds. As she continued to make her way with ease through the course, Backstedt showed how far ahead of her rivals she was, passing not one but two riders (Czechia’s Jula Kopecky and Luxembourg’s Marie Schreiber) on her way to glory. By the second time check, Backstedt was 34 seconds up on the field heading up the 1.3km, 6% cobbled climb. Where many riders have come unstuck here so far these championships, Backstedt took it in her stride and showed no signs of weakness as she continued her pace. As she approached the finish line, Backstedt’s success was guaranteed and she was able to celebrate another classy and dominant performance as she won the under-23 women’s world title. On claiming the rainbow jersey, Backstedt said: “It was such a brutal race, it was almost peak temperature of the day, so that didn’t help but I really just gave it everything I had and kept pushing until the end and I’m really happy to pull it off." “[The course] was the same but different to what I expected if that makes sense! I knew for sure that it was going to be super hard and that it was going to be basically down to the two climbs but the sections in between you did the first climb and descended. It was descending basically all the way to the cobbled climb then and there’s just two points where you could really kill yourself off and hopefully recover in between." “I’m really happy to pull this off and it’s been some time [since she last rode a world championships] but juniors was my last worlds [in 2022] so I came in with a little bit of hope from that event; ok it was a long time ago but it really gives me a little bit more motivation for pushing in every way.” Teammate Millie Couzens, who won the National under-23 time-trial event earlier this year, also delivered a great ride in the midday sun, initially second at the first intermediate, with 11 riders to go. Holding her position well and using the descents to gain speed and recover ahead of the 350m of climbing, Couzens kept her second place into the second time check. Losing a little time on the tricky cobbled climb, Couzens initially placed third as the crossed the line, holding onto the position for a good period until all riders had gone and she eventually took an impressive sixth place overall. Callum Thornley competed in a highly competitive under-23 men’s time-trial, with surprising results across the field, finishing an impressive fifth overall. Thornley started well, looking comfortable in a strong aero position, head tucked under to get every ounce of power and speed out of his efforts. With other competitors putting in some impressive rides around him, the Brit kept his cool and passed the first checkpoint in third ace, 10:15 seconds down on Australia’s Nate Pringle, with eight riders to go. By the second check, the gap had widened a little to 24.79 seconds and he sat in third before being overtaken by Mateusz Gajdulewicz (Poland) and dropping down to fourth. This put the pressure on in the final 13km to push hard and regain some ground if Thornley was going to get onto the podium. Thornley responded as needed and pushed hard heading into the final climb, managing to put himself in a strong position crossing the line in 39:36.34, overtaking Canada’s Walton Jones to be in second position while the final riders came through. After a fantastic effort, it wasn’t quite enough for the podium as the French and Swedish riders came across the line in medal positions, seeing Thornley finish fifth overall. Max Hinds, Dylan Sage, Erin Boothman and Abi Miller contest the junior rainbow jersey in the final day of individual time-trials. Photo Credit: SWPix

The historic Luton Hoo Estate is set to host a significant two-day auction, where a vast collection of hotel furniture, lighting, and art will be sold to benefit designated charities. The event, titled "The Luton Hoo Collection," will precede The Arora Group's multi-million-pound redevelopment of the iconic estate, which includes a Ryder Cup bid that has been submitted to be held at Luton Hoo in 2035. This landmark hybrid sale is a unique opportunity to acquire pieces with a storied provenance. The event, taking place both on-site at the hotel and via a live online webcast, will raise funds for a greater cause. Each winning bid will support charitable causes, with the beneficiaries and total amount raised announced publicly after the event. This initiative highlights the Arora Group's deep-rooted commitment to philanthropy and giving back to the community. Alison Griffin, Director of Charitable Services at Arora, emphasised the dual purpose of the event. "This auction is more than just a sale; it's a chance to give our furniture a second life and support meaningful causes in our community," she said. "We're thrilled to host an event that marries our commitment to the planet with our dedication to giving back." Auctioneer Simon Rose said, "We are delighted to be hosting this momentous event at the magnificent Luton Hoo Estate. This is a truly special sale, not only because of the sheer scale and quality of the collection, but also because it's a chance for buyers to acquire beautiful items while making a tangible difference." Prospective buyers can inspect the lots during a two-day public preview at the estate. The hybrid format ensures that a global audience can participate and contribute to the fundraising effort. Event Details: ● Preview Dates: November 10-11, 2025 ● Auction Dates: November 12-13, 2025 ● Location: Luton Hoo Estate, Farm Rd, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3TQ The full auction catalogue, photographs, and registration details are available here. Following the auction, The Arora Group, one of the UK’s leading hotel owner-operators, will begin redevelopment of the Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa. This ambitious project will transform the historic estate into a world-class luxury destination, operating under the globally renowned Fairmont Hotels & Resorts brand. Set within over 1,000 acres of tranquil parkland, Luton Hoo has a rich and varied past. The estate's transformation, a key part of the Arora Group's vision since its acquisition in 2021, will elevate the property to new levels of luxury and solidify its position on the global stage. The plans, which have received a significant portion of planning approval, include extensive upgrades and new facilities designed to enhance the guest experience and create a premier leisure and hospitality destination. "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," reiterates Surinder Arora, Founder and Chairman of the Arora Group. "The dream has been getting bigger, and we're now looking at an investment of £160m to £170m, which will create more than 350 extra jobs. Our acquisition of Luton Hoo was always with the intention to curate a luxury leisure and hospitality experience on the existing estate, and we are confident that this investment will bring significant economic benefit to Bedfordshire and the surrounding areas." The redevelopment will be carried out over the next few years, with the hotel set to relaunch under the Fairmont flag upon completion. The Arora Group has a strong, proven partnership with Accor and its Fairmont Hotels & Resorts brand, having successfully launched the Fairmont Windsor Park. This new project will build on that success, bringing the same level of prestige and quality to Luton Hoo. The transformation of the estate is expected to attract new visitors from both domestic and international markets, putting Central Bedfordshire on the world stage and ensuring the long-term viability and success of the historic property. The auction, which is set to be one of the largest of its kind, will feature approximately 3,000 pieces of furniture and hotel assets. These items, offered to the highest bidder over a two-day sale, are being deaccessioned from the 267 bedrooms and public areas across the estate's various buildings, including the historic Mansion House, Parkland Wing, Country Club, and Warren Weir. The sale will also include assets from the hotel's Spa, fitness centre, and food and beverage operations, as the property prepares for a full closure at the end of September 2025 to commence the multi-million-pound redevelopment.

Scotland’s national business support service is spotlighting the pioneering business as part of this year’s National Innovation Week A breakthrough in assistive technology for people living with Parkinson’s disease is reaching more patients thanks to business support provided to StrydAR, the pioneering business behind a world-first pair of medical glasses designed to reduce the impact of Parkinson’s symptoms. StrydAR’s innovative glasses use visual cueing technology to project a simple horizontal line into the wearer’s upper peripheral vision. This bypasses the impaired part of the brain and sends a signal directly to the motor cortex, leading to improved posture, balance and the quality of walking. The scientifically-proven technique can also reduce freezing episodes, which are a leading cause of falls for people with Parkinson’s. Unlike invasive treatments such as deep brain stimulation (DBS), StrydAR’s glasses offer an instant, non-invasive improvement across all four stages of Parkinson’s, with a pilot study by Robert Gordon University showing that 70% of participants reported perceived moderate to life-changing benefits. At present, the Parkinson’s Walking Glasses are not available with prescription lenses. This means that patients who normally wear glasses will need to remove them before using the device and allow a short adjustment period before walking. The team is working with an optical specialist, Oxford Opticals, to develop a prescription option.  The business, which currently serves 60 patients across the globe, has been featured in Parkinson’s UK’s Tech Guide, and is currently the only business in the world offering this medically-certified product. To improve patient access and support, StrydAR has recently enhanced its online service after its founder, Scott McLeod, who is based in Lossiemouth, approached Business Gateway for support. With backing from his local adviser, Lorna Williamson, Scott successfully secured a £5,000 digital grant to develop an AI assistant for StrydAR’s website and streamline customer management through automation. This upgrade has made it easier for patients and families to explore the glasses and received tailored guidance. Business Gateway also connected Scott with a specialist business consultant, Evelyn Walker, who is currently helping him and his team develop a new business plan as StrydAR continues to grow. Scott McLeod, founder, StrydAR, said: “Parkinson’s is the fastest growing neurological disorder, affecting over 10 million people globally, with no cure yet available. Our glasses really are transforming lives – the moment our customers put them on, they can notice a difference." “Thanks to the guidance and support we’ve received from Business Gateway, we’ve been able to strengthen our online service and focus on scaling our impact, making the technology simpler and responding directly to the needs of people with Parkinson’s.” Lorna Williamson, Business Gateway adviser, said: “We’re very proud to have been supporting the team at StrydAR on their business journey. The business is a shining example of how innovative technology, guided by lived experience and scientific research, can deliver real and lasting improvements for people with long-term conditions.”

Leading family-owned glass packaging specialist, Croxsons, will be exhibiting at this year’s London Packaging Week, taking place on 15 - 16 October at ExCeL London. The event will mark the first time that Croxsons has unveiled its newly launched spirits bottle range at a major packaging show. The company is exhibiting on Stand G54. The new range has been developed to combine striking aesthetics with functional performance, reflecting Croxsons’ commitment to offering spirits brands premium packaging solutions that balance heritage, innovation and sustainability. The bottles not only provide a premium look, but are also rightweight options that help spirit producers meet their sustainability goals while reducing EPR fees. The collection will take centre stage on Croxsons’ stand, with refreshed graphics designed to highlight the bottles’ distinctive forms and features. Alongside the new range, Croxsons will also present packaging created in partnership with leading global and independent brands, demonstrating the company’s ability to deliver tailored solutions across the drinks industry. Members of the sales team will be available throughout the two-day event to discuss projects and showcase Croxsons’ expertise in closures, decoration and design. Adding to the company’s presence, CEO Tim Croxson will join the London Packaging Week content programme on Wednesday 15 October at 12:15pm, taking part in a panel discussion titled “Policy on Top: What the latest packaging reforms mean for the drinks industry”. The discussion aims to explore how reforms like EPR and DRS are impacting producers, the challenges and opportunities for both established players and challenger brands, and whether these shifts are moving the industry closer to a circular packaging model. Tim Croxson said: “London Packaging Week is always a key date in our calendar, but this year is particularly special as it’s the first time we’ll be presenting our new spirits bottle range at a major exhibition. It’s a collection we’re incredibly proud of and we’re looking forward to introducing it to the industry, alongside showcasing some of the fantastic brands we support. I’m also delighted to be taking part in the panel discussions, which promise to provide a real opportunity to share perspectives and debate the future of packaging.” London Packaging Week is one of the UK’s premier events for packaging innovation, bringing together thousands of brands, designers and manufacturers across beauty, drinks, luxury and FMCG markets.

Premium Fairtrade confectionary brand Divine Chocolate has appointed Leeds-based PR, social media and influencer agency, Umpf to handle its UK communications, following a competitive pitch. Umpf has been briefed to boost brand awareness and drive consumer and trade engagement through ongoing press office and creative campaigns, showcasing Divine’s indulgent product range, ethically sourced cocoa and quality credentials. Known for its rich flavours, smooth textures and wide range of products, Divine Chocolate has built a loyal following of chocolate lovers and is the only chocolate brand founded and co-owned by cocoa farmers. The new partnership will highlight the brand’s premium taste profile and reinforce its position as a go-to choice for those seeking both quality and sustainability in their chocolate. Andy Smith, Group Marketing Manager at Divine Chocolate, said: “Divine is all about creating chocolate that is of the highest quality, tastes incredible and makes people feel good. Umpf really captured the spirit of our brand, and we’re excited to see how they’ll bring our story – and our chocolate – to life in new and imaginative ways.” Milly Rose, Senior Account Director at Umpf, added: “Divine is an iconic name in ethical, premium chocolate with a fantastic product range and a powerful story of creating positive change. It’s a brilliant brief for us, and we can’t wait to get cracking on activity that will put Divine firmly in the spotlight.” With clients across the UK, including Belling, Harrison Spinks, Landsec and the NHS, Umpf is based in the heart of Leeds, with a second office in London.

Leading independent insurance broking and risk management firm, TL Dallas, has appointed Caroline Pullich as Group Head of Private Clients, further strengthening the family firm’s expertise in delivering bespoke insurance and wealth protection services to high-net-worth individuals and families across the UK and Northern Ireland. Caroline brings more than three decades of experience in financial services and insurance, having held senior roles at NatWest, Barclays, and NFU Mutual. She spent 21 years at NatWest, where she progressed through a variety of retail and corporate banking roles, ultimately leading teams of up to 750 colleagues. She then spent 10 years at Barclays, progressing to Head of SME for Yorkshire, working closely with entrepreneurs, family businesses, and regional organisations. Most recently, Caroline was Managing Partner at NFU Mutual in Boston Spa, where she built a successful high-net-worth, bespoke insurance proposition. Over three years, she developed a portfolio of more than 80 private clients, providing tailored advice and support spanning both personal and commercial needs. Commenting on her new role, Caroline said: "Throughout my career in banking and insurance, the importance of relationships has always stood out. At TL Dallas, I want to bring together everything I’ve learned to support clients with a truly personal, concierge-style service." "I’ll also be building my own portfolio of clients, ensuring I’m closely connected to families and their future generations, who will be responsible for their personal and business assets in the years ahead. People want reassurance and an insurance broker that takes the time to really understand their individual needs, and that’s where TL Dallas excels and ultimately what attracted me to the role.” Alongside her professional work, Caroline is an active contributor to the business and charitable communities. She is Chair of the Institute of Directors for North Yorkshire, a Board Member of Maggie’s Cancer Care Yorkshire, and sits on the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce’s Leeds Leadership Group. Caroline added: “These roles have given me a broad network of connections who will also benefit TL Dallas clients. The firm has a strong reputation for its charitable commitments and client relationships and I’m excited to help grow the Private Clients division, expand our high-net-worth proposition, and build on the firm’s long-standing values of trust and service.” Managing Director, Polly Staveley, said: “TL Dallas is committed to the philosophy that private clients continue to want a knowledgeable insurance professional looking after them, ensuring they have the best possible cover and value, and fighting for their interests during a claim. Caroline joining and leading our private client teams is a key part of our plan to take this gold standard service proposition to a wider audience throughout the UK.”

A thriving Surrey fitness and health business which has officially opened a second facility in Camberley to cope with increased demand has been praised by the head of British Gymnastics. Prime Acrobatics, which offers blend of gymnastics, acrobatics and circus skills to children and adults, is now firmly established at Prova Court, creating dozens of jobs and boosting the Surrey economy. The organisation, founded in 2012 by gymnast Chris Bowler, formerly a coach with the Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, and Clem Malcolmson, a now retired UK gymnastics stalwart, has been based at picturesque Heather Farm on Horsell Common in Woking since 2016. But with almost 1,700 members at Woking and many more on a waiting list, a new facility was needed – with enough height to accommodate gymnastics and with easy public access. Property consultancy Vail Williams sourced and secured the 16,421 sq ft (1,525 sq m) Prova Court premises, formerly used as science laboratories, on the town’s Yorktown Business Park and secured change of use. After a lengthy programme of works to convert the premises, the facility opened to the public and now offers dozens of classes for children and adults every week. The official opening was attended by Sarah Powell – CEO of British Gymnastics which is the national governing body for gymnastics in the UK, Dr Al Pinkerton – MP for Surrey Heath, and Cliff Betton – Deputy Mayor of Surrey Heath Borough Council. Also there were and representatives of the Fleet-based Stepping Stones DS charity which supports children and young people with Down syndrome and which has partnered with Prime Acrobatics. Sarah Powell said: “Facilities like this help us no end because they provide opportunities for families and children to come together to enjoy everything that’s great about gymnastics – and help develop the international stars of the future." “What’s special about Prime Acrobatics is that as well as offering a huge range of classes, it is fully inclusive and very much has the feel of a community coming together for the common good and certainly inspires others to get involved." “It has also brought a lot of people into jobs as they train children all the way from pre-school to elite gymnasts, become role models for future generations.” Prime’s Chris Bowler, who thanked Vail Williams for support and advice during the property negotiations, said: “It has been challenging to get to this point but I have never stopped believing in the end goal and what this facility means to so many people. I am so proud of the all-inclusive offering we provide for thousands of people of all ages and abilities across Surrey who participate in the physical activity so important for health and wellbeing and to ensure that current and future generations remain active." “Although I have trained some of the best athletes in the world, being the first facility in the country to run classes for children with Down syndrome is one of the proudest moments in my life.” Diane Walters, Chair of Stepping Stones, said: “This facility is genuinely changing lives for the better and we hope our partnership with Prime Acrobatics will run and run.” Charlie Nicholson, Partner at Vail Williams based in Woking, said: “Prime Acrobatics is a valued and long-standing client and it was a privilege to be here today to see how an industrial unit has been transformed into a facility dedicated to helping people, particularly children, stay fit, active and healthy.” Vail Williams’ full-service property advice includes commercial agency, investment and development advice, building consultancy, property valuation, planning, lease advisory, property asset management, business rates and occupier consultancy.

Permasteelisa Group, the UK’s leading international façade specialist, has grown its FaçadeCare business, which is dedicated to extending the lifespan of façades on buildings across the UK, by 60 per cent in the last 12 months. The FaçadeCare team, based in London, specialises in maintaining, protecting and enhancing façades - preserving their value, reducing running costs and improving environmental performance. The specialist team of ten has worked on over 400 projects across the UK, including Grade I and Grade II listed buildings, those designed and built by Permasteelisa Group and others. Services include inspections, planned and preventative maintenance, façade cleaning, glass replacement, and emergency call-outs. Inspections are supported by advanced diagnostic techniques, including thermal imaging and water leakage tests, allowing the team to detect and rectify hidden issues before they escalate. The team’s maintenance capabilities cover the whole building envelope, such as air infiltration testing, fire stopping, servicing of automated components and the supply of critical parts to keep buildings operating efficiently. FaçadeCare also offers full façade refurbishments to enhance technical performance and sustainability. Drawing on Permasteelisa Group’s expertise, the team can deconstruct, upgrade and renovate façades, preventing demolition and reducing carbon emissions. Where possible, obsolete materials are reused or recycled. Jalal Fitoury, CEO, Europe for Permasteelisa Group, comments: “For decades, Permasteelisa Group has been trusted to preserve the façades we design and build. In response to a growing demand for specialist aftercare, FaçadeCare allows us to offer our technical expertise, resources and experience to all building owners and managers." “A façade represents up to 30 per cent of a building’s total construction cost, so extending its lifespan is crucial. Without regular care and attention, it will age rapidly, which can compromise the property’s energy efficiency, aesthetics, safety, and compliance with building regulations." “Our team offers a wide range of maintenance, cleaning and refurbishment services, including tailored packages for more complex buildings such as Grade I and Grade II listed properties and those with very specialised finishes." “Working with designers, engineers and suppliers, our aim is to preserve façades for as long as possible, ensuring buildings remain safe, visually striking and sustainable.” Permasteelisa Group’s FaçadeCare is also offered to customers in the Middle East, as well as in other European countries. Photo caption: Permasteelisa Group’s Façadecare team working on preserving a façade in London.

Munnelly Group, one of the UK’s leading construction and infrastructure delivery partners, has marked a historic milestone by awarding shares to a non-family member for the first time in its 43-year history.   Long-serving director Will Noble has been granted a significant stake in the business, with the move described by Group CEO Paul David Munnelly as “a landmark moment that recognises Will’s exceptional contribution, loyalty and leadership”.   Paul David, who succeeded his father Phil as CEO in May this year, said: “This achievement has been a long time in the making and is thoroughly deserved. Will has been at the heart of our growth story for nearly 25 years, and this step represents both recognition of his past achievements and confidence in the future success we will build together. It also underlines our commitment to long-term stability and continued success for our people, partners and clients.” Will Noble joined Munnelly Group in 2001, bringing his vast experience of working on major projects with Bovis, Lend Lease and Laing O’Rourke. Since then, he has played a central role in expanding the company’s major projects portfolio across the UK and was appointed to the main board in 2008. His entrepreneurial approach has opened doors to new markets, projects and services, making a lasting impact on the Group’s performance.   Speaking about the announcement, Will said: “I am honoured to become the first ever non-family shareholder in Munnelly Group. This is a very special moment for me, and I am truly grateful to Paul David and the Munnelly family for the trust they have placed in me. My journey here has been both rewarding and successful, and I am excited to continue working with the board to protect what we have built and to seek new opportunities for growth.” Established in 1982, Munnelly Group has evolved into a leading multi-business organisation, delivering innovative solutions across technology, geospatial surveying, preconstruction consultancy, access control, security, resourcing, payroll and construction logistics.

A ceremony has been held to mark the opening of the first local centre to be developed at the pioneering new community of New Lubbesthorpe in Leicestershire. The two-storey Brook Centre has been delivered by developer Charterpoint in conjunction with landowner The Drummond Trust. New Lubbesthorpe Health Centre, operated by Forest Medical Group, and a Sainsbury’s Local are the first tenants to move into The Brook Centre on Tay Road. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at New Lubbesthorpe Health Centre to mark the occasion. Charterpoint MD Giles Nursey said: “We are very pleased to have completed the first local centre for the New Lubbesthorpe community and delighted to celebrate the first tenants moving in. New Lubbesthorpe Health Centre is a rare example of a new GP practice and has given Forest Medical Group state-of-the-art premises, which include consulting rooms, treatment rooms and therapy spaces to create additional care services for patients." “The Sainsbury’s Local is providing the community with a handy and convenient store for shopping and is another additional facility for residents of New Lubbesthorpe.” A group of guests including local councillors, GP practice representatives, and others connected to the development joined Charterpoint and The Drummond Trust for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the milestone. Guests were given a tour of the second-floor New Lubbesthorpe Health Centre premises. “Brook Centre is a significant project for the New Lubbesthorpe community, and provides space for modern healthcare facilities and services to the residents of the area,” said Martin Ward, development agent for The Drummond Trust. “We are excited to see the first tenants moving into the centre. It marks a key moment in the development of not just the centre, but of the New Lubbesthorpe community as a whole.” Forest Medical Group said: "We are thrilled to be opening a brand new GP practice in New Lubbesthorpe, expanding our commitment to high-quality, patient-centred care." “This new site will not only provide the full range of essential GP services, but will also serve as a hub for wider community health and wellbeing support. With state-of-the-art facilities and a dedicated team, we’re here to support the growing needs of local residents. This development will complement the services we already proudly provide at Warren Lane Surgery, allowing us to offer even greater access and continuity of care across the community." Councillor Ben Taylor, leader of Blaby District Council, who cut the ribbon to mark the occasion, said: “Blaby District Council is delighted to see these wonderful facilities open and being enjoyed by local residents. New Lubbesthorpe continues to grow as the vibrant, sustainable community we always envisaged it to be. It continues to be a beacon of good design and best practice within the planning and development industry with visits from the MPs, the Secretary of State and the Royal Town Planning Institute president highlighting this collaborative effort.” New Lubbesthorpe is a vibrant new community in Blaby which will eventually include more than 4,000 new homes. Brook Centre was designed by Franklin Ellis Architects and built by Derby-based contractor Davlyn Construction on behalf of Charterpoint and The Drummond Trust. Charterpoint, which is based at Edwalton near Nottingham, specialises in developing mixed-use and sustainable schemes, first-class senior living accommodation, and primary care premises.

More than 200 business leaders came together for the annual Southampton Boat Show lunch hosted by Hampshire Chamber of Commerce. The signature event on the Chamber’s social calendar, the gathering has been a feature of the show since its founding in 1969 and remains its only dedicated networking lunch for business attendees. This year’s keynote speaker was round-the-world yachtsman turned entrepreneur Pete Goss MBE. In his presentation at the Novotel Southampton, the former Royal Marine drew parallels between the skills involved in ocean navigation and those required for managing teams in the business world. “Leadership, decision-making, resilience and building capacity for when circumstances change are vital to both,” he told the audience. “In business, just as in the ocean, you have to trim your sails to change.” It was a sentiment shared by Ross McNally, Hampshire Chamber Chief Executive and Executive Chairman, who said it was ‘especially fitting’ to have Pete as keynote speaker since he was ‘no stranger to adversity’. Ross said: “His exploits at sea, marked by courage, resilience and a refusal to give in, are more than tales of adventure. They are metaphors for leadership, for decision-making under pressure, and for the kind of grit that business demands today. The sea, like business, rewards those who are bold, prepared and willing to chart new courses.” Explaining that the lunch had stood proudly alongside the Boat Show for over half a century, Ross said: “In doing so, we are celebrating not just maritime excellence but the spirit of enterprise that defines our region.” And he added: “There is no doubt this year’s gathering comes at a time of undeniable challenge for many firms." “Businesses across Southampton and the Solent are navigating economic headwinds, shifting markets and the relentless pace of change.But if there’s one thing our region knows how to do, it’s adapt, innovate and push forward with purpose.” The lunch was supported by show organiser British Marine which puts the annual contribution to the Solent economy from what is Britain’s biggest festival of boating at more than £30 million. British Marine President Robert Parton said: “The memberships of both Hampshire Chamber and British Marine share many of the same challenges but by working together we help our region compete and maintain Southampton as the capital of leisure marine. The Solent is a real honeypot of excellence, skills and knowledge. It’s where the action is.” The headline sponsor of the lunch was independent financial adviser Radcliffe & Co (Life & Pensions) Ltd. Director of Corporate Services Marc Cumberlege said: “We grew from being a marine insurance broker and have played an active part in the Chamber including on its Tax, Finance and Legal Committee. It’s important for us to engage with the local business community so it is a natural fit for us to support the lunch. We know the Chamber does a good job promoting networking opportunities.” Richard Armstrong, Regional Finance Manager of lunch co-sponsor UK Export Finance, said: “We are the UK’s export credit agency, supporting businesses in Hampshire, on the Isle of Wight and nationally as they seek to grow their export trade. We do that by providing guarantees to banks who lend working capital." “There is no better venue to promote our support than the Port of Southampton. It is an integral part of the UK’s trading history and an important gateway to the rest of the world.” The charity partner for the lunch was Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, who took the opportunity to promote a free CPR training course for workplaces. Attending on behalf of the charity were team members including Keith Wilson, Director of Income & Engagement, and Natalie Russell, Supporter Engagement Officer. Other lunch partners included law firm and programme sponsor Parker Bullen LLP and speaker sponsor NMT International Shipping.

A Ferndown funeral directors’ business continues to grow, boosted by the success of its major refurbishment and introduction of a ceremony room. AE Jolliffe & Son has recruited Kerry Corwson, a funeral director, and Jedda Hunt, an office administrator. The team has grown steadily since the completion of works three years ago, with the ceremony room proving hugely successful. Jolliffe & Son is part of the Douch Family Funeral Group, which has seven branches across east Dorset. Debbie Brown, the manager, said: “The addition of Kerry and Jedda has enabled us to broaden what we can offer, giving families more choice and ensuring we can provide extra support for our other branches when they need it." “Both are very experienced and have hit the ground running since joining us; our team is the biggest and strongest it’s ever been. The renovation of the premises and addition of the ceremony room has proved popular with local families – showing the investment is paying off." “The ceremony room is where people can have a cost-effective funeral and wake in the same place, but it is also available for community groups and others who might need the space.” Nick Douch, managing director of the family business, said: “The investment in our Jolliffe branch was part of a rolling programme of improvements across all our branches. It is situated in a prominent location on the main crossroads in Ferndown and the community is making great use of the facilities." “The success of the ceremony room has meant we have been able to grow and take on two new team members who are helping us continue to build on that growth.” Douch Family Funeral Directors other branches are in Wimborne, Corfe Mullen, Blandford, Parkstone, Wareham and Swanage. Photo: Debbie Brown, manager, centre, with Jedda Hunt front right and Kerry Crowson front left