A new study has shown that sleep deprivation can inhibit the brain’s ability to suppress unwanted memories and intrusive thoughts. Sleep deprived people are unable to engage the area of the brain that suppresses unwanted memories. Scientists at the University of York, in collaboration with the University of East Anglia, have shown that sleep deprivation interferes with the ability of the prefrontal area of the brain to restrict the retrieval of memories that would have otherwise been suppressed. Dr Scott Cairney from the University of York's Department of Psychology , said: “Memories of unpleasant experiences often intrude into our conscious mind in response to reminders, but tend to be fleeting and can be put out of the mind again, but we have previously shown that the brain's ability to suppress such intrusive memories is contingent on obtaining restful sleep." “Suppression is a very clever function of the brain as it weakens all of the connecting traces of the memory, thereby inhibiting us from joining up all the dots to retrieve the full picture of the experience when it is triggered by an external stimulus.” Emotionally Negative To understand how the brain does this, the team used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scans to investigate the brain activity of 85 healthy adults, half of which had experienced a healthy night sleep in the sleep lab, and the other half stayed awake all night. They were asked to look at faces, which they had previously seen paired with images of scenes, some of which were emotionally negative, such as a picture of a car crash or a fight. For each face they were asked to either recall the scene associated with it, or suppress the memory of the scene. When attempting to suppress the scene images, the well-rested participants showed more activation in the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex - a brain region that controls thoughts, actions, and emotions - compared to those who stayed awake all night. REM Sleep The rested participants also showed reduced activity in the hippocampus - a brain region involved in memory retrieval - during attempts to suppress unwanted memories, demonstrating that they could ‘shut down’ the retrieval operations that underpin emerging intrusive thoughts. They also found that individuals who obtained more rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, were better able to engage the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex during memory suppression, pointing to a role for REM sleep in restoring the mechanisms in the brain that can help prevent unwanted memories from entering conscious thought. Mental Health Dr Cairney explains: “The participants who were sleep deprived were unable to engage the area of the brain that helps us suppress unwanted memories. Consequently, they could not quash memory related processes in the hippocampus that give rise to intrusive thoughts." “This is really important to our understanding of mental health issues as it is well documented that those who suffer with anxiety, depression or PTSD, also have difficulty with sleep." "Now that we have better understanding of the the mechanisms in the brain that can help restrict negative memories and thoughts, we can perhaps work on more targeted treatments and behavioural therapies that help with improving sleep and as a result support the brain in doing what it has so cleverly adapted to doing, allowing us to lead mentally fit lives.” ‘Memory control deficits in the sleep-deprived human brain’ is published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences .

Darts superstar Luke ‘The Nuke’ Littler has marked his World Darts Championship triumph by awarding himself a bespoke 24-carat gold iPhone 16 Pro Max, valued at £5,000. The extraordinary gesture celebrates the 17-year-old’s historic win, as he continues to take the darts world by storm and establish himself as one of the sport’s brightest talents. Luke’s collaboration with luxury design brand strada x IDG has resulted in a one-of-a-kind phone, personalised with his name and championship details. The golden device serves as both a reward for his hard work and a symbol of his remarkable achievement at such a young age. The celebration was taken to a global stage, with Luke unveiling the phone during his trip to Bahrain, where he competed in the prestigious Bahrain Darts Masters. The event showcased the teen sensation’s talent alongside the sport’s elite players, further solidifying his status as a darts prodigy. Gary Allen, a spokesperson for strada x IDG, said: “Working with Luke Littler on this bespoke gold phone has been an incredible experience. His World Darts Championship victory was a momentous occasion, and we’re thrilled to create a unique luxury item that reflects his exceptional talent and dedication." "This collaboration embodies our passion for crafting meaningful, high-end pieces that celebrate personal and professional milestones.” The phone, crafted with strada x IDG’s signature precision and attention to detail, stands as a luxury statement piece. Beyond its cutting-edge functionality, it represents Luke’s relentless drive and the beginning of what promises to be an extraordinary career in darts. strada x IDG has become synonymous with bespoke luxury technology, catering to elite athletes, celebrities, and tastemakers worldwide. Renowned for their craftsmanship, the brand specialises in designing personalised tech that transcends utility to become symbols of achievement and style. This collaboration highlights strada x IDG’s growing influence in the world of sport, as they continue to work with top names across various disciplines. From football legends like Lionel Messi, Kevin De Bruyne to NBA superstars, their clientele is a testament to their unparalleled quality and exclusivity. With plans to expand into the Middle East and USA retail markets in 2024, strada x IDG is redefining luxury tech on a global scale. For Luke Littler, this golden phone is more than a piece of technology, it’s a trophy that embodies his journey, his passion, and his meteoric rise in the sport of darts. For more information on strada x IDG and their bespoke luxury devices, visit their website here

Cosmopolitan Yachts, renowned for its cutting-edge, eco-conscious designs, proudly announces the launch of its latest flagship model: the 110-foot Beach Club Explorer Catamaran. This innovative hybrid-electric vessel sets a new benchmark for sustainable luxury and long-range exploration, seamlessly blending advanced technology, refined craftsmanship, and environmental responsibility. Redefining Modern Yachting Engineered for exceptional performance, the Cosmopolitan 110 offers a remarkable range of 5,000 nautical miles, enabling owners to reach the world’s most remote destinations with ease. Its hybrid-solar propulsion system combines the reliability of diesel engines with the silent, emission-free capabilities of electric power. Complemented by an advanced solar panel system, this yacht achieves energy-efficient operation at anchor or in harbour, embodying Cosmopolitan Yachts' commitment to sustainability. Eco-Conscious Design True to its ethos, Cosmopolitan Yachts has integrated eco-friendly aluminium construction and sustainable decking materials into the 110’s design. Interiors are crafted with responsibly sourced materials, ensuring luxury does not come at the expense of the environment. Guided by Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) principles, the vessel is designed to minimize emissions and environmental impact throughout its lifespan. The Ultimate Beach Club Experience The 110-foot Beach Club Explorer offers an expansive, multi-level beach club area that redefines onboard living. With seamless access to the water, panoramic views, and an inviting layout for relaxation and entertainment, the design celebrates the connection between the ocean and the luxury of home. Customizable layouts ensure that each yacht reflects its owner’s unique vision. A Vision of the Future Iván Salas Jefferson, Managing Partner & Chief Naval Architect adds: “The Cosmopolitan 110 embodies everything we stand for at Cosmopolitan Yachts: innovation, sustainability, and the art of exploration.” “This vessel offers our clients the opportunity to experience the world in unparalleled comfort while respecting and preserving the environment.” Explore Without Compromise Cosmopolitan Yachts has once again redefined the possibilities of modern yachting. The 110-foot Beach Club Explorer is more than a yacht—it’s a commitment to innovation, luxury, and the future of our planet. For adventurers seeking performance, style, and sustainability, this catamaran sets a new standard. Main Particulars: Length = 33,5 m Beam = 11,5 m Draught = 1,8 m Range = 5000 nautical miles

Blue Monday is known as the ‘most depressing day of the year’ and occurs on the third Monday of January every year. Returning to work after Christmas, the dark cold mornings, and nights and still a week away from payday all contribute to many people’s low mood. Mental health can be worse for many people during the winter months due to the short dark days and a lack of sunshine. In fact, 1 in 3 people in the UK suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder, which often leads to low mood and lack of productivity. Those alarming statistics show just how important it is for individuals to prioritise their mental health. Blue Monday falls on to Monday January 20 this year. To avoid the blues on this year’s Blue Monday, leading music insurer musicGuard shares the benefits of music on mind and body. “Whether it’s listening, playing, or creating, music offers a unique way to combat stress and improve your mood” says Simon Bennett, Managing Director of musicGuard . Music Can Lower Blood Pressure Playing music can lower blood pressure and reduce heart rate. Studies have shown that slow and calming orchestral music has the most positive impact on heart health and can even be used to reverse blood pressure problems at a pre-medication stage. Music Can Improve Mental Health Playing music provides a mood boost, and can help to reduce depression, anxiety, and negative thoughts. It can reduce stress and improve confidence by giving a sense of purpose. What’s more, learning to play a musical instrument is great for overall brain development. It can train the brain, improve memory and help to build connections using senses and motor movements. Studies have shown that playing an instrument maintains speedy neural responses, it can also slow down natural brain degradation and is valuable even for older people. Music Can Reduce Screen Time When people are bored, they are likely to endlessly scroll on their phone or reach for the TV remote. Then, it is easy to fall into the trap of binge-watching an entire TV series sat on the sofa. However, playing an instrument keeps the body moving, and reduces the time spent sitting still. After a music practice, individuals are more likely to stay productive and avoid mindless phone scrolling or channel surfing. “This Blue Monday, we’re encouraging everyone to embrace the rhythm and let music be a source of comfort and joy” adds Simon.

Santander UK calls for a new social and relatable strategy to help young adults engage with financial education and takes action with a new financial education programme for young people reflecting their financial needs and use of social media influencers, launching in 2025. New research from Santander UK reveals that young adults are leaving school without a formal financial education, raising concerns about the nation’s financial literacy. A decade after financial education became part of the secondary school curriculum, young adults are still leaving school unprepared to manage their finances. According to a new research report from Santander UK of 2,000 18-21-year-olds, only one in four (26%) young adults report having received any financial education at school, leaving approximately 4million, without a fundamental understanding of money management. Key Findings: 10 years since its introduction to the secondary school curriculum, only one in four young adults (18-21) are leaving school having received financial education. Young adults are confident in their financial knowledge but 79% have never created a budget, 76% have never paid a bill, and 77% have not set aside funds for unexpected expenses. TikTok teaching: Almost a third of young adults are turning to influencers for financial education with TikTok as the most popular platform. Only 17% of young adults reported receiving financial guidance from their bank Social Media Fills The Financial Literacy Gap In the absence of structured financial education in school, young people are increasingly turning to online sources, especially social media, for financial guidance and information as they step into an age of financial independence. Santander’s study found that nearly a third (31%) of young people look to social media influencers for advice, with 25% of those relying on TikTok. Data shows women (34%) take to social platforms more so than men (27%), yet women also state that a big chunk of their knowledge is from parents and friends – 65% vs. 56% of men. Financial Education Falling Short The findings indicate a gap between school-based financial education and the practical skills needed for real-life money management. Just 13% of young adults felt the financial lessons they received in school were applicable to their personal finances. Critical topics like debt management, overdrafts, personal loans, and emerging debt types such as “buy now, pay later” (BNPL) products – which Creditspring research has shown are the second most common form of borrowing among the younger generation – were scarcely covered, leaving young adults unprepared for common financial situations. Overconfidence Hides A Lack Of Financial Experience While many young adults feel knowledgeable, most lack practical financial experience. The research shows a huge 79% have never created a budget, 76% have never paid a bill, and 77% have not set aside funds for unexpected expenses. This combination of confidence and inexperience may lead to potentially risky financial decisions. Rethinking How Banks Engage Young People Santander recently found that 47% of the public think providing financial education is the top "wider obligation" for banks. However, while nearly every bank offers a financial education platform, almost half (45%) of young adults have never engaged with them. With 45% expressing a desire to improve their financial skills but unsure how—and 35% reporting daily financial worries—it is clear that financial institutions, including banks, must explore new ways to engage young adults, stepping beyond traditional methods to meet them where they are: on social media. William Vereker, Chair of Santander UK, comments: “Young people’s understanding and effective management of money is essential in their own lives, but also for wider society and economic growth. Empowering them with the knowledge and skills to develop a healthy, resilient relationship with money directly impacts the economic stability of the country, by reducing individual debt, instilling investment habits and encouraging entrepreneurship." “Our research raises two significant concerns: firstly, that the current school curriculum does not always equip young people with the knowledge they need to plan and manage their financial futures; and secondly, that this gap is leading young adults to potentially unreliable online resources for advice." "Banks have a critical opportunity to connect with young people by delivering accessible, engaging financial guidance tailored to their needs and preferred platforms." "We know young adults take to social media for news, for inspiration, to shop, to sell so it is imperative that we position ourselves where they are and for what they are asking from us." “Next year we’ll be launching a financial education programme that meets the needs of young people and helps equip them properly for their financial futures.” Although banks have invested in online resources, these platforms are underutilised, with nearly half (45%) of young adults reporting they have never engaged with them, and women being 11% less likely to use them than men. This lack of engagement has contributed to a worrying statistic: over a third of young people are concerned about their finances on a daily basis (35%).

In a heart-warming act of community spirit, Lily Arkwright Jewellers, a leading retailer of ethical and sustainable lab-grown jewellery, stepped forward to help a local record shop recover from a devastating burglary. The independent shop 'Needle Drop Records' that trades in Altrincham, Manchester and is known for its rare vinyl collections and vibrant music community, suffered significant losses after intruders broke in, stealing valuable stock and causing damage. The burglary left the shop’s owners facing financial uncertainty and a daunting task of rebuilding their inventory. In response, Lily Arkwright Jewellers gifted £500 via GoFundMe to the shop, demonstrating their commitment to supporting small businesses and preserving the unique character of the local community. The donation was more than just a financial contribution; it was a gesture of solidarity. A representative from Lily Arkwright explained their motivation: “Independent businesses are the heartbeat of our towns and cities. When we heard about what happened, we felt compelled to help. It’s crucial to show support in times like these.” The record shop owner expressed immense gratitude for the donation, sharing how the funds would help replace some of the stolen stock and repair the damages. “It’s been a tough few days, but the kindness we’ve received has been overwhelming. Lily Arkwright’s generosity reminds us that we’re not alone and that our community truly values what we do.” The burglary also sparked a wave of support from other local businesses and residents, with many offering donations, volunteering their time, or simply showing up to shop. The record store has since launched a crowdfunding campaign to cover additional costs, and the response has been encouraging. Lily Arkwright Jewellers, known for their ethical practices and stunning jewellery designs, have become a pillar of the community, not just through their business but through their acts of kindness. This donation reflects their values of sustainability and community building, extending far beyond their jewellery offerings. As Needle Drop Records begins to rebuild, the support from Lily Arkwright and the wider community serves as a reminder of the power of compassion and the strength of small businesses coming together during challenging times.

The Office for National Statistics has reported retail sales figures in Great Britain for December which were slightly weaker than had been expected. Key Findings: Retail sales volumes fell by 0.3% in December 2024 following a rise of 0.1% in November. Non-food store sales volumes rose by 1.1%, Food fell by 1.9%. Clothing sales volumes rebounded by 4.4% following large falls in the previous two months. Retail sales had been expected to rise by 0.4% Charlie Huggins, Manager of the Quality Shares Portfolio at Wealth Club commented: "Retail sales volumes came in below expectations in December, with a good performance from clothing more than offset by weakness in supermarket sales." "There was a notable shift to online sales in December. This is not great news for many store-based retailers, even those with online operations. Most retailers make lower profit margins online and their stores have high fixed costs, which are set to rise again in April following the Autumn Budget. Without higher revenues in store to offset these costs, profitability across the sector is likely to come under pressure." "Overall, UK retailers are stuck between a rock and a hard place. The significant increase to labour costs is bad enough, and higher for longer interest rates could yet undermine consumer confidence. Rising online sales penetration, if sustained, may be the final nail in the coffin for many."

Barclays Research has released a new Impact Series report, entitled “AI revolution: Meeting massive AI infrastructure demands.” Focused on the US, as the market leader for the technology, Barclays Research finds that AI growth could lead data-centre usage to triple by 2030. Barclays’ estimates for data-centre usage are significantly above current consensus and the report examines the consequences of such rapid AI expansion for the world’s ambitions to cut greenhouse gas emissions. The report argues that efforts to conserve power through efficiencies can likely only go so far in offsetting the proliferation of AI. “The balancing act between achieving emissions targets while allowing responsible AI technology to advance is a global challenge.” says Christian Keller, Head of Economics Research. “Policymakers, tech companies and the energy industry must forge new partnerships to deliver AI that is socially beneficial and environmentally sustainable.” Barclays analyses the projected growth in consumption driven by AI, the urgent questions raised by the significant infrastructure demands of the technology, and how the public and private sectors may collaborate to deliver AI responsibly and sustainably. Barclays’ Impact Series uses data-driven analysis to explore economic, demographic and disruptive changes affecting markets, sectors and society at large. The key findings of today’s report include: Energy Use Today : Data centres currently consume 1.0%-1.5% of global electricity, excluding crypto currencies (IEA, mid-2024) Future Energy Demand in the US : AI could drive US data-centre use to triple by 2030, from 150-175 terawatt hours (TWh) in 2023 to 560 TWh – equivalent to 13% of current US electricity demand. Implications for Net-Zero Targets : AI and data centres could provide a much bigger spur to global electricity demand than was initially factored in to net-zero targets. Click here to read the full report.

Family Business United is delighted to announce the launch of a new campaign that seeks to identify and celebrate the very best of British family businesses. 'Britain's Finest' is the latest campaign from FBU, a leading organisation that champions the UK family business sector, and will feature family firms from all over the country, of all sizes, sectors and generations. Participants will be required to share responses to some core data requests that will then be analysed and ranked against the other family firms taking part and a full listing will be made available in due course. Paul Andrews, Founder & CEO of Family Business United adds: "We are always looking for new ways to celebrate the sector and the significant contribution that family firms make to the national economy and this Finest Family Firms campaign is a great way to do just that. Not only will we be able to showcase the individual family firms in the report but we will also be able to create good data to quantify their collective importance." "Family businesses are the backbone of the UK economy and deserve to be recognised for all that they do in terms of employment, income generated, wealth created, taxes paid and their unwavering support of the communities in which they operate." "Our inaugural Britain's Finest campaign will showcase the sector and help us once again to put the family business sector on the map. We look forward to reviewing the entries and celebrating the depth and diversity of family firms across the UK." Family firms of all sizes are eligible to take part and the methodology has been created to enable the final report to be determined based on a number of factors, and not just size. Family businesses are encouraged to enter their details for inclusion in the inaugural report which will be published in June. Simply click on the button below to submit your details. Along with contact details and information about the business, what it does and where it is located, the form will require the following data: Annual turnover Number of full time employees Number of full time apprentices Confirmation as to whether the business holds an King's Award, Royal Warrant or a B-Corp accreditation Date the business was founded The deadline for submission is March 31, 2025.

C. Brewer & Sons are delighted to announce that they have been appointed as Royal Warrant Holders by His Majesty The King for decorating supplies. This huge honour has been appointed to Brewers as a mark of recognition for the ongoing supply of goods or services to the Royal Household. In 2024 HM The King and HM The Queen granted their first two sets of Royal Warrants of Appointment of the new reign. The grants were made as part of a review of all companies that held Royal Warrants at the time of the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. Companies holding Royal Warrants of Appointment represent a huge cross-section of trade and industry, from sole traders to multinationals. They are united by a commitment to the highest standards of service, quality, excellence and craftsmanship. The history of the Royal Warrant can be traced back to medieval times, when competition for Royal favour was severe and the reigning Monarch could choose the country's best tradespeople. By the 15th century, the Lord Chamberlain, as head of the Royal Household, formally appointed tradespeople with a Royal Warrant of Appointment – a practice that continues to this day. As Simon Brewer, CEO of Brewers adds: "We pride ourselves in being the ultimate destination for decorators and playing our part in making the world a brighter place. The honour of the appointment of the Royal Warrant reflects this dedication to quality and service since 1904. We are delighted and honoured to be recipients of this prestigious Royal Warrant."

A business support group has secured a best-selling business author and noted entrepreneur to speak at its Dorset conference in February. Nicole Yershon will make the keynote address at the STRIDE Dorset Innovation for Business Conference, which is titled ‘Making the Change for Tomorrow’. She will be among a dozen top speakers at the free event being held in the BattleLab at the Dorset Innovation Park in Wool, near Dorchester, on February 12. Nicole has spent nearly 30 years in the creative communication and innovation sector. She headed the ‘future thinking’ unit of Ogilvy & Mather Group – now part of WPP – and is the founder of The NYC, a global business inspiration business. Nicole has worked with some of the world’s biggest marketing agencies as well as brands including Amex, IBM, BP, London Business School, E&Y, Accenture, Pfizer, Great Western Railways, Go Compare, Unilever, BA and Whitbread. Furthermore, she has written the Number 1 best selling business book called ‘Rough Diamond: Turning Disruption into Advantage in Business and Life'. Jessica Dennis, who is coordinating the STRIDE Dorset conference, said: “Nicole is a superb speaker who will inform, inspire and entertain in equal measure. Confirming her at the conference was a real coup and delegates will learn a great deal from what she has to say." “The conference is free and there will be coffee, tea, biscuits and lunch and anyone from a business in the Dorset Council area is welcome. All they have to do is register. The event runs from 9am until 4pm." “Alongside Nicole we have a number of excellent speakers from different backgrounds and experiences – from the worlds of academia through to digital innovation and finance.” Other speakers so far include: John Acton: Businessman who helped set up ‘peer2peer global’ to support business leaders. Professor Sam Medhat: CEO of the Institute of Innovation and Knowledge Exchange Tony Welch: South West Regional Manager - Innovate UK Sam Baynham: Conex Portal Brent Treloar: South West Innovation Fund Rupert Lorraine: Director of the Arts Institute - University of Plymouth Paul Gilbert: Oxford Innovation Advice. Professor Mike Phillips: Director of i-DAT and Professor of Interdisciplinary Arts - University of Plymouth Mike Robertson: Lead Product Development Consultant - STRIDE Dorset

Leonard Curtis has unveiled new roles for two key members of its leadership team as the firm starts an ambitious programme of growth for the next three years. David Brown, who joined the business in July 2023 as Chief Operations and Financial Officer, becomes Chief Operating Officer (COO), while Paul Birks, who has been Group Financial Director since September 2022, will be promoted to Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Leonard Curtis is the largest independent restructuring and turnaround specialist in the UK, combining funding, legal and other business services to provide bespoke distress and non-distress solutions for SMEs, larger corporates and their advisers. The Group employs over 300 people across 29 sites in the UK and offshore and has seen rapid growth in the last 18 months, increasing revenue by 33% to £38m since 2022. David takes the role of COO with previous experience in audit, M & A and industry. He holds an MBA from Manchester Business School and is a former professional cricketer, having played county cricket for Gloucestershire and Glamorgan. Paul has held financial roles since 1998 across a range of businesses, including audit services at Baker Tilly and UHY, as well as ten years as a FD in the health and social care sector. Both will work in close collaboration on several key areas of responsibility, operating alongside CEO Dan Booth. Dan commented: “David and Paul will co-ordinate our extensive office network and profit centres to maximise profitability, as well as identifying future cost savings across the Group." “They will be looking at improving the use of data to set better strategic and short-term department performance and growth goals and providing ultimate oversight and management of the collaboration and operational leadership teams.” He continued: “Both will also be responsible for leading the firm’s M&A strategy for the next three years and integrating new acquisitions into the Group.” In recent months the firm has added Newsource Commercial Finance to boost its funding brokerage arm, with special focus on the property sector - and Virtualnonexecs.com, which adds a 23,500-strong international talent pool and other services to the firms existing skillset. David said: “The growth of the Group over the recent past together with exciting opportunities ahead means we needed to evolve our structure. It’s a compelling proposition to take on the COO role and I am delighted to have been asked to lead the next stage of growth, alongside Dan, Paul and many talented colleagues.” Paul commented: “We have made great progress in the last two years, streamlining our reporting and financial policies and now we go again to strengthen that infrastructure to allow us to meet next level expectations. I am looking forward to it.” Dan Booth added: “As the group continues to grow and we focus on future mergers and acquisitions activity, development of our new and existing services and integration, together with the efficiencies that naturally leads to, we need to ensure we have the appropriate skillsets to deliver the best results. We would like to congratulate Paul on his well-deserved promotion and wish him and David all the best in their new roles.”