Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood MP dropped into JCB on National Pothole Day – to see close up a machine which is helping fix the nationwide scourge of Britain’s highways. The Nottingham South MP visited the JCB Power Systems factory in Foston, Derbyshire to watch the JCB Pothole Pro in action. Derbyshire has been highlighted as the worst area in England for potholes and is set to benefit from a share of the Government’s record £1.6 billion investment to resurface roads across England. JCB’s Pothole Pro - which is already in use with councils across the UK - can fix a pothole in eight minutes at a cost of around £30 – half the cost of traditional methods. Lilian Greenwood said: “Today is National Pothole Day and I am absolutely delighted to be with JCB in Derbyshire. We are investing a record £1.6 billion in fixing our roads, which is going to make a real difference to constituents not just here in Derbyshire, but across the whole of England, which will see smoother and safer roads." “It’s really important that we make best use of that funding and local authorities look at what new technologies and innovations they can adopt to make sure they can fix as many potholes in a permanent way." “One of the things people get really frustrated about is that a pothole gets fixed and then it’s in the same state a few months later, so it’s really important that local authorities are looking at new innovations and equipment. JCB’s Pothole Pro is one of the many great examples of using new technology to repair potholes faster and demonstrates how companies are harnessing new technology to repair potholes faster.” JCB Municipalities General Manager Ben Rawding said: “As the Government embarks on a huge investment in England’s roads, we were delighted to show the Future of Roads Minister just how innovative and cost effective the JCB Pothole Pro is at providing a permanent fix for potholes.”

Elected Mayors from across the UK have come together to launch a ‘Mayoral Innovation Exchange’ to foster collaboration, enable innovation, and share best practice between mayoral combined authorities. The inaugural event was hosted in South Yorkshire by Sheffield Hallam University and PwC at the University’s state-of-the-art Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre – a hub for world leading projects that focus on innovative new ways to increase people's physical activity, improve health outcomes and drive economic growth. It was the first time that the UK’s elected mayors have come together since the Government published its English Devolution White Paper in December 2024 – which places Mayoral Combined Authorities at the forefront of delivering growth and raising living standards. South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard welcomed mayors to discuss issues including harnessing data to tackle common health challenges, procuring environmentally sustainable public transport fleets, and aligning local skills systems to support the delivery of critical infrastructure such as new housing. Specialists from PwC, who work across the public sector in health, Higher Education and transport, facilitated sessions to share best practice, including international examples, and stimulate discussions and ideas. Mayors and representatives from each of the combined authorities also learned more about projects being pioneered by the Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre and its partners, which focus on innovative new ways to increase people's physical activity, improve health outcomes and drive economic growth. Findings from the inaugural innovation exchange will influence the work of combined authorities across priorities such as health, skills and transport, whilst also shaping how Mayors collectively influence the Government around the devolution agenda. The next Mayoral Innovation Exchange will be hosted by the North East Mayoral Combined Authority. South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, said: “As Mayors we are already tackling some of the biggest issues that face our communities - whether that’s improving public transport, boosting skills and training locally or growing our economies. Mayors are making a difference and are here to stay." “Now, as the number of Mayors and Combined Authorities across the country grows, we have the chance to tackle national challenges and help the whole country to thrive. The Mayoral Innovation Exchange gives us the opportunity to share the brilliant work we’re all doing in our regions – and also plan how we work together nationally, with Government, to renew our country.” Professor Liz Mossop, Sheffield Hallam University Vice-Chancellor, said: “We were delighted to host the inaugural Mayoral Innovation Exchange event, and it’s particularly appropriate that it was held at our Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre on the Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park – a hub for world leading innovation." “Innovation is more than just a buzzword, it’s central to making progress on health, skills, and sustainability – which all underpin a wider economic strategy to boost growth and ultimately improve living standards." "When it comes to supporting innovation within our regions, universities like Sheffield Hallam are willing and able to play our part.” Katie Johnston, local and devolved government leader at PwC, said: “Less than a month since the Government published its English Devolution White Paper, it’s an important step forward bringing the Mayors together and collaborating to solve the biggest challenges facing cities and regions. Bringing PwC’s sector knowledge and expertise from across the UK, and facilitating the convening of ideas, we hope to help solve some of society’s most important problems and explore the art of the possible with leaders from the combined authorities.” North East Mayor Kim McGuiness said: "Mayors stand ready to address the long-standing challenges that for too long have held our communities back and stifled people's potential. From helping people with poor health find and stay in work, to getting our skills and training offer right, and building better public transport, mayors are working together to reimagine public services." "Working with a government committed to devolution and empowering local leaders, we have ambitions to transform the prospects of the people we serve, helping unlock opportunity and prosperity for our regions and the country."

The Department for Business and Trade’s (DBT) Made in the UK, Sold to the World Awards are open for SMEs to enter until 9 March, with the addition of two new categories and an expanded prize package to honour exceptional accomplishments in global trading.  The awards celebrate the international sales success of SMEs across the UK and provide a stepping stone for further growth and opportunity. This year, two new categories have been added: Digital & Technology and Export Services – the latter aiming to recognise the contribution of businesses that facilitate UK exports. The other categories cover Advanced Manufacturing & Construction; Agriculture, Food & Drink; Consultancy & Professional Services; Creative Industries; Education & EdTech; Financial Services & FinTech; Healthcare; Infrastructure and Engineering; Low Carbon Energy; and Retail & Consumer Goods.  Lloyds Bank has joined as a partner for the 2025 awards, in addition to the founding partner, the Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade. The winners’ package has been updated to include a year’s free business membership to the Chartered Institute; a working capital masterclass with a Lloyds Bank trade expert; professional photos of their business; and an invitation to the winners’ reception in London. They will also receive a trophy, certificate and digital badge, and bespoke promotion on DBT’s channels. Those that are highly commended will also receive a year’s free membership to the Chartered Institute.  Gareth Thomas, Minister for Services, Small Businesses and Exports, underscored the significance of the awards in recognising the ambition of small businesses across the country.   Gareth said:   “When small businesses export, it opens a wealth of incredible opportunities. These awards are a testament to the innovation that British SMEs display day in, day out." “As we enter the new year, our Plan for Change is about ensuring businesses across the country can thrive and grow. This will boost jobs and wages and firms that export are at the forefront of that growth. I encourage all those who have started on the exporting ladder to enter and showcase their success.”  Information on how to enter, including key dates, can be found here.

January may seem like a quiet month, nestled between the celebrations of Christmas and the arrival of spring. But January 15 offers a delightful chance to embrace creativity, tradition, and personal expression with National Hat Day. Whether you’re a fan of flamboyant fascinators, practical beanies, or timeless bowlers, this whimsical holiday celebrates the rich history and enduring appeal of hats. The Origins of National Hat Day Though its exact origins remain somewhat mysterious, National Hat Day is thought to have begun in the United States as a way to highlight the craftsmanship of milliners and the cultural significance of headwear. Over time, it has grown into an international celebration that invites people to don their favourite hats and appreciate the role headwear has played in fashion and society. In Britain, where hats have long been a symbol of style, status, and occasion, the day provides an opportunity to delve into the unique ways hats have influenced our culture. From the elegance of Ascot to the charm of a Sunday afternoon stroll, hats are interwoven with the nation’s identity. A Brief History of Hats The history of hats stretches back thousands of years, with early examples dating to Ancient Egypt, where headwear signified rank and role. Over the centuries, hats evolved to suit changing fashions and practical needs. In Britain, the Tudor era introduced the gable hood and French hood, while the Elizabethans popularised extravagant styles adorned with feathers and jewels. By the 18th century, hats like the tricorn and later the top hat became staples of aristocratic fashion. Victorian Britain saw millinery flourish, with hats becoming increasingly elaborate. Twentieth-century Britain witnessed the rise of iconic designs such as the cloche in the 1920s, the pillbox in the 1960s (popularised by Jackie Kennedy), and the enduring tweed flat cap, a rural favourite that has returned to contemporary style. The Role of Hats in British Culture Few nations can rival Britain’s enduring love affair with hats. Perhaps the most quintessentially British event that demonstrates this is Royal Ascot, where hats are not just an accessory but an expectation. The Royal Enclosure’s strict dress code has led to the creation of some of the most imaginative and daring headwear in fashion history. Hats also play a central role in British ceremonies and traditions. The King’s ceremonial crown is a national symbol, while regiments of the British Army are known for their distinct headwear, such as the bearskin hats of the Grenadier Guards. In more everyday contexts, the bowler hat, once the mark of a city worker, and the flat cap, synonymous with the working classes, have become timeless icons of British style. How to Celebrate National Hat Day National Hat Day offers an excellent excuse to explore and experiment with headwear. Here are a few ideas to mark the occasion: Wear Your Favourite Hat : Whether it’s a vintage fedora or a cosy knitted hat, don your favourite headpiece to honour the day. Visit a Milliner : Support local artisans by purchasing a bespoke hat or learning about the intricate craft of millinery. Explore a Museum : Many museums, such as the Fashion and Textile Museum in London, offer fascinating insights into the history of hats and their cultural significance. Share on Social Media : Post your favourite hat styles on social media, using the hashtag #NationalHatDay, to join the global celebration. Though hats are no longer the everyday necessity they once were, their popularity endures, especially at weddings, races, and formal events. Sustainability and innovation have begun shaping the millinery industry, with eco-friendly materials and traditional techniques making a comeback. For some, hats remain a statement of personal style, for others, they’re a playful addition to an outfit. But on January 15, they are celebrated as both an art form and a delightful accessory that transcends time. So, why not take a moment today to tip your hat – whether metaphorically or literally – to the rich history and enduring charm of headwear? After all, every hat tells a story, and what better time to share yours than National Hat Day?

Families in Possilpark will once again enjoy delicious takeaway themed meals for just £1, thanks to a £5,850 donation from Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust to Courtyard Pantry Enterprise's "Friday Night Takeaway" initiative. Courtyard Pantry Enterprise supports individuals and families facing financial challenges by offering affordable access to food and other essentials. Their programmes focus on encouraging community spirit and easing financial pressures in creative, inclusive ways. The cost-of-living crisis, and the rising costs of food over the last few years, has meant that for many families in the North Glasgow community, a takeaway is a luxury that is simply unaffordable. The Friday Night Takeaway project aims to break through that financial barrier, bringing takeaway to everyone in the community, regardless of their income. Dale Todd from Courtyard Pantry Enterprise said: “We are delighted to have support from the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust for our Friday Night Takeaway project. We’ll be able to provide a takeaway for up to a family of four for a nominal fee of just £1, and the Friday Night Takeaway is open to all.” Allied Vehicles and the Courtyard Pantry Enterprise have had a relationship since early 2022, with The Trust donating almost £24,000 since then to help the charity keep locals fed. Previous donations funded projects such as subsidised grocery shopping, a Community Meals initiative and Breakfast Clubs. The recent funding for Friday Night Takeaway will help Courtyard Pantry to prepare a total of 900 meal portions over three to four months with each person receiving a meal which includes a starter, main and dessert. Previously, the charity has created delicious Chinese, Indian and Italian themed meals which proved to be extremely popular. Gerry Facenna, founder and owner of Allied Vehicles Group, who grew up in Possilpark, said: “The Friday Night Takeaway is a fantastic idea, and Courtyard Pantry is a wonderful project which has been making a real difference in our local community for years. We are proud to be able to support their efforts again.”

Managing Director of AW Hainsworth, Amanda McLaren, has been recruited to the position of Deputy Lieutenant of West Yorkshire by the Monarch’s Lord-Lieutenant, Ed Anderson CBE. Amanda will support Ed Anderson CBE, the Monarch's personal representative in West Yorkshire, in representing the Crown, developing closer links among the community, and upholding public service and civic engagement traditions. The Lord Lieutenant’s duties can include escorting royal visitors with official visits to West Yorkshire, representing the King at community events, being involved in the honours system – including presenting them on behalf of the Crown and generally contributing to the community with involvement in local events. She was appointed to the role at the same time as new Deputy Lieutenant Canon Kersten England CBE. Amanda is an Executive Board Director who has worked with UK-based SMEs and global manufacturing businesses over the last 35 years, gaining experience in mechanical engineering, electronics, automotive, leisure and textile sectors. For over 20 years, she has operated at executive board level within the textile sector, always maintaining a passion for a ‘people-first approach’ to doing business throughout her professional career. In her current role at AW Hainsworth, Amanda has been credited with personally driving a mental health and wellbeing strategy throughout the business over the last three years, with many employees benefiting from further education and awareness through professionally run workshops and personal support from the company’s on-site mental health counselling service. Amanda has always lived in West Yorkshire and has studied and worked in and around the county for most of her career. She sits on the LITAC (Leeds University Institute for Textile and Colour) Committee, representing as an industry expert, and is also a Non-Executive Director on the Huddersfield-based TCEO (Textile Centre of Excellence) Board, an indication of her passion for UK Textile manufacturing. Aside from her professional career, Amanda has been married to her husband, Mark—an experienced mechanical engineer—for over 33 years. They have two adult children, Alyssa and Ethan. Amanda explains, “I was honoured to be nominated by Ed Anderson to become a Deputy Lieutenant for our region. Receiving my commission of appointment by command of HM the King was a very proud moment." “I’m looking forward to assisting with any duties that may be required within the Lieutenancy, contributing to the local community and working closely with the other Deputy Lieutenants for West Yorkshire, deploying my professional and personal knowledge and experience.” AW Hainsworth is a heritage textile mill established in 1783 and based in West Yorkshire, that integrates the traditional qualities of craftsmanship with cutting-edge innovation and product development to create exquisite woollen cloth, high-performing textiles, and iconic fabrics for customers worldwide. The specialist textile company is the parent company to Hainsworth Signature Fabrics, Hainsworth Protective Fabrics, Hainsworth Cue Sports Fabrics, John Atkinson by Hainsworth, Natural Legacy by Hainsworth, Northern Rubber by Hainsworth, and Replin by Hainsworth. The manufacturer has recently been granted a Royal Warrant of Appointment to His Majesty the King as Manufacturers of Furnishing Fabrics. The mill has held a Royal Warrant for two decades, initially awarded in 2004 and renewed periodically. Last year, the vertical production mill revealed a rebrand, achieved zero landfill status and collaborated with Clarks Originals.

According to today’s House Price Index, UK average house prices rose 3.3% in the year to November 2024. On a seasonally adjusted basis, monthly house prices rose 0.1% in November 2024. The average price of a UK property was valued at £290,000. Regional data shows a growing North/South divide in England price rises with the North East, North West and Yorkshire and the Humber leading the way with the highest annual growth of 5.9%, 5.7% and 5.7% respectively. However, South East and South West house prices only grew in the year to November by 1.4% and 2.2%, with London being the only region to contract by 0.1% which highlights affordability concerns in areas with the highest house prices. Peter Graham, Partner and Regional Head of Real Estate in the North at leading audit, tax and consulting firm RSM UK, comments: “The latest house price index highlights the continued regional variations with house prices increases in the North of England leading the way, compared to the South, where affordability concerns continue to dampen growth due to interest rate increases over the last four years from 0.1% to 5.25%." "With the financial markets forecasting fewer interest rate cuts in 2025 compared by a few months ago, the concern will be that this will continue to drag on house price growth particularly in the South.” Stacy Eden, partner and National Head of Real Estate at RSM UK, added: “Property prices are slowly increasing with inflation, slowly falling interest rates and rising consumer income. Looking ahead, we expect to see house prices to continue with a gentle upward trend underpinned by the chronic lack of supply. The housing affordability index over the last couple of years has also fallen from close to 8.5 to just under 7.5, allowing for future house price rises." "Concerns about measures announced in the budget and poor economic growth in 2025 may however mean house prices rise less than expected this year.”

In a world obsessed with quick fixes, superfoods stand out as nature’s answer to better health. Packed with essential nutrients, antioxidants, and compounds that enhance well-being, these foods are more than trendy—they’re transformative. From ancient staples to modern discoveries, let's take a look into the best superfoods to incorporate into your healthy diet. 1. Blueberries Blueberries are often crowned the king of superfoods, and for good reason. These small, vibrant berries are packed with powerful antioxidants called anthocyanins, which give them their deep blue hue. Why They’re Super: Brain Health: Regular consumption is linked to improved cognitive function and reduced risk of age-related memory decline. Heart Health: Rich in flavonoids, blueberries help lower blood pressure and improve circulation. Immunity Boost: High in vitamin C, they support the immune system. How to Enjoy : Toss blueberries into smoothies, sprinkle over yogurt, or simply snack on them fresh. 2. Kale Once dismissed as a garnish, kale is now celebrated as a nutrient powerhouse. This leafy green is brimming with vitamins, minerals, and fibre. Why It’s Super: Nutrient Density: One cup of kale provides more than 100% of your daily vitamin K and A requirements. Detox Support: Its sulphur-containing compounds help the liver detoxify harmful substances. Bone Health: Packed with calcium, it’s great for those seeking non-dairy sources. How to Enjoy : Add it to salads, blend it into green smoothies, or bake it into crispy kale chips. 3. Quinoa Technically a seed, quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. It’s been a dietary staple in South America for thousands of years. Why It’s Super : Protein-Rich: A boon for vegetarians and vegans. Gluten-Free: A safe grain alternative for those with gluten sensitivities. Energy-Boosting: High in complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. How to Enjoy : Use quinoa as a base for grain bowls, salads, or even breakfast porridge. 4. Salmon Wild-caught salmon is one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for brain and heart health. Its rich flavour and versatility make it a culinary favourite. Why It’s Super : Heart Health: Omega-3s reduce inflammation and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. Brain Function: Supports memory, mood regulation, and cognitive performance. Protein Powerhouse: Promotes muscle repair and growth. How to Enjoy : Grill, bake, or pan-sear with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh herbs. 5. Chia Seeds Chia seeds may be small, but they’re nutritional dynamos. Once a staple of the Aztec diet, they’re now prized for their versatility and nutrient density. Why They’re Super : Rich in Fibre: Promotes digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. Omega-3 Content: Plant-based omega-3s support heart health. Hydration Aid: Absorb water, forming a gel that keeps you hydrated. How to Enjoy : Add them to puddings, smoothies, or sprinkle them on top of salads. 6. Turmeric Turmeric, with its bright yellow hue, has been a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. Its active compound, curcumin, is a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Why It’s Super: Anti-Inflammatory: Helps reduce inflammation linked to chronic diseases. Joint Health: Relieves symptoms of arthritis and joint pain. Cancer Prevention: Some studies suggest curcumin may help slow the growth of certain cancers. How to Enjoy : Add it to curries or sprinkle it on roasted vegetables. 7. Avocados Creamy, delicious, and nutrient-packed, avocados are a superfood staple. They’re a fantastic source of healthy fats and vitamins. Why They’re Super : Heart Health: High in monounsaturated fats that improve cholesterol levels. Nutrient Absorption: Enhance the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. Skin Glow: The healthy fats and vitamin E nourish your skin from within. How to Enjoy : Mash into guacamole, slice onto toast, add to salads or blend into smoothies for a creamy texture. 8. Almonds Almonds are a go-to for anyone looking for a quick, healthy snack. These nutrient-rich nuts are an excellent source of energy and essential nutrients. Why They’re Super : Brain Boost: Vitamin E supports cognitive health. Weight Management: High in protein and healthy fats, they curb hunger. Heart Health: Lower LDL cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. How to Enjoy : Eat them raw, add them to trail mixes, or use almond butter as a spread. 9. Sweet Potatoes Sweet potatoes are more than just a side dish. These vibrant root vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fibre. Why They’re Super: Rich in Beta-Carotene: Supports eye health and boosts immunity. Slow-Release Energy: High in complex carbs, perfect for sustained energy. Gut Health: The fibre content promotes a healthy digestive system. How to Enjoy : Roast, mash, or bake them as a healthy alternative to regular fries. 10. Dark Chocolate Good news for chocolate lovers, dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) is not only delicious but also brimming with health benefits. Why It’s Super : Heart Health: Flavonoids improve blood flow and reduce blood pressure. Mood Booster: Stimulates the release of endorphins and serotonin. Antioxidant Power: Helps combat oxidative stress. How to Enjoy : Indulge in a few squares after dinner or use it in baking. Incorporating superfoods into your diet doesn’t require an overhaul—small, consistent changes can lead to big health benefits. Whether you start your day with a smoothie bursting with blueberries and chia seeds or enjoy a hearty quinoa salad for lunch, these nutritional powerhouses can help you feel your best. Remember, the real 'super' in superfoods is how they complement a balanced diet and active lifestyle. After all, health isn’t just about what you eat, it's about how you live.

Surrey County Council will now use AI to detect potholes to help speed up road repairs across the county. Computer vision cameras fitted to dashboards inside highways vehicles will spot and photograph potholes which will then be automatically recorded for repair. Future enhancements will see other defects such as missing signs and foliage overgrowth also programmed for repair. Highways Inspectors will no longer need to step onto the road to manually carry out inspections which will make the process safer and more efficient. Potholes that don’t need immediate attention will also be regularly tracked to ensure they are dealt with when needed. Matt Furniss, Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth, said, “We have some of the country’s busiest roads and we’re working incredibly hard to improve them, with nearly £300m allocated to repairing and improving Surrey’s roads and pavements over the next five years (2023 – 2028). “Adopting this technology will mean we can proactively log and fix potholes, helping to ensure we have well-maintained roads across the county for our residents." “We’re also resurfacing more roads and pavements than ever with 100 miles of roads and 30 miles of pavements resurfaced by our highways teams from April – December 2024 alone. This will make our highway network more resilient which will reduce the number of potholes that develop on our roads in the first place." “I’m also pleased that we are pioneering AI technology to detect potholes as championed by the government just this week." Connell McLaughlin, CEO of Route Reports said, "We’re thrilled to formalise this long-term partnership with Surrey County Council, who were among our earliest supporters and collaborators in developing Route Reports’ AI road maintenance platform." “Their feedback and hands-on involvement played a key role in refining our defect detection technology to ensure it meets the real-world needs of the community. This partnership exemplifies how innovative solutions and local expertise can come together to make roads safer, more efficient, and more sustainable." Surrey County Council is the first local authority in the UK to move away from manual inspections and solely use video and AI technology to log and programme pothole repairs. The council has worked with provider, Route Reports, to trial and develop the software. Residents can also report and track road and pavement issues on Surrey County Council’s website here .

Lidl expands its sports partnership portfolio, announcing its sponsorship of UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 tournament. The latest venture marks another milestone in Lidl’s commitment to support women’s sport and solidifying its role as a holistic partner of football and continuing its promotion of active, healthy lifestyles for all. ​ This new partnership is a natural evolution of Lidl’s ongoing commitment to the world of sports, following its successful collaboration with women’s sport in handball and cycling and the men’s UEFA EURO 2024™, whereby Lidl was the most noticed brand partner during the tournament (YouGov).​ The Lidl sports sponsorship portfolio is extensive, with significant partnerships: in cycling with Lidl-Trek through the men’s and women’s and development team and the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships; our Women’s and Men’s handball sponsorships of the EHF EUROs and IHF World Championships and in football, through the UEFA EURO 2024, UEFA Europa League and UEFA Conference League. ​ As a leader in the retail industry, Lidl's dedication to women's sports is a testament to the power of business to drive positive social impact by creating more visibility. Lidl recognizes that good nutrition is an important factor for overall health, but a healthy lifestyle also includes regular exercise. By becoming Official Partner of UEFA Women’s EURO 2025, Lidl is taking another step to inspire fans to embrace an active lifestyle, solidifying its role as a holistic supporter of sports.​ For a better tomorrow, together, with UEFA Women’s EURO 2025, Lidl remains dedicated to championing active living and fostering connections through sport.​ Jo Gomer, Lidl GB Marketing Director, said: “Sport is an important part of our long-term commitment to inspiring health and conscious nutrition, and we’re thrilled to champion this through incredible events like UEFA Women’s EURO 2025." "These tournaments don’t just showcase world-class talent - they inspire people everywhere to get moving and embrace an active lifestyle.” Guy-Laurent Epstein, UEFA Marketing Director​, said: “As one of Europe’s leading food retailers, Lidl is an ideal partner to help us bring the energy and excitement of UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 to an even broader audience." "We are delighted to build on our successful partnership with Lidl from UEFA EURO 2024 into UEFA Women’s EURO 2025, so we can continue to harness the power of football to inspire healthy lifestyles and the next generation of women’s football.”​

Noble Foods is tapping into consumer trends and food interests to shape the future of egg-based innovation. With its new state-of-the-art innovation hub in Leicester now fully operational, Noble Foods is delivering adaptable, trend-led solutions to meet the growing demand for nutritious, versatile and convenient foods. At the heart of this evolution is the launch of Noble Foods’ first-ever frozen omelettes, available in Original and Cheese varieties, and with new flavours already in development for later this year. This marks the first of many upcoming innovations as Noble Foods continues to explore egg-based solutions for modern lifestyles. “Eggs are nature’s multivitamin,” says Anita Nutchey, Head of Marketing & Innovation at Noble Foods. “They’re versatile, nutritious, and uniquely positioned to meet the needs of consumers looking for tasty, healthy solutions. With time at a premium, we know consumers are looking for convenience and currently eggs aren’t always perceived as a quick solution. Whether consumers are looking for a quick breakfast, speedy dinner solution or snack on the go, our Leicester facility allows us to unlock the full potential of eggs." "With a future pipeline already in development to bring innovative, egg-based solutions for consumers to enjoy eggs in any occasion, no matter where they are.” The decision to start with omelettes reflects their immense popularity, with 208 million omelette occasions annually - more than classic meals like fajitas or stir-fry’s. With 60% of consumers finding fresh omelettes inconvenient to make and 38% agreeing they rarely have time to cook eggs in the morning, the frozen omelette range is designed to address two key consumer opportunities: growing eggs’ role in lunch, dinner, and snacking while reinforcing their popularity at breakfast. Eggs are a staple in UK households, purchased by 94% of shoppers, with the category achieving £1.7bn in retail sales value, growing at +7.0% annually. Despite the popularity of eggs, almost 1 in 3 consumers rely heavily on convenience products due to busy lifestyles and the rise of quick-to-go meal trends. The new Leicester facility is more than a manufacturing site; it’s a hub for culinary innovation and creativity. By combining sustainability, versatility, and high-protein and nutritional solutions, it positions Noble Foods as a leader in meeting modern consumer needs while driving demand for eggs from its network of over 200 British egg farmers. The launch of frozen omelettes, including those under the Happy Egg brand, showcases Noble Foods' dedication to creating innovative egg-based solutions designed to meet the needs of food service customers and consumers alike. This marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Noble Foods—where eggs are reimagined as the foundation for convenient, nutritious, and delicious solutions that align with modern lifestyles and evolving consumer trends.

How often do we find ourselves feeling overwhelmed? In busy or stressful situations it can seem like there’s continual noise, with something extra regularly being added to the list, each demanding urgent attention. Upon further investigation, there are often things that can wait, be delegated or be broken down into smaller, more manageable chunks. Some items may require input from a third party before they can progress. Do what you can and pass them on, freeing yourself to either relax or move on to other matters for a while. Seeking assistance, advice or help online is frequently an automatic default, as there’s a plethora of information available to access. But wading through masses of data, some of it conflicting, some of it unverifiable, can add to the stress and pressure. When researching various points online it can be almost impossible to confirm which responses are correct, viable or simply opinions and there may be many conflicting sources to choose from. Selecting credible experts can take time but it’s important to avoid ‘rabbit holes’, where you view every response or digression, so becoming submerged in information overload. Plus, an influx of information can feel overwhelming and prompt a flurry of urgent activity. But random activity and starting several things at once can result in confusion. Much time can be wasted unless you make careful notes prior to moving on. Otherwise there’s a danger of having several half-finished tasks and no clarity about where you're up to with any of them. Limit the time you spend on the web, social media and news. It can be tempting to frequently google what's happening, whether it’s reviewing the latest updates, doing research or investigating various symptoms, but this can result in wasted hours scrolling through a miscellany of feeds, often revisiting old ground, so causing heightened levels of overload and anxiety. Commit to two or three specific check-in times a day and notice how much your time management and mental health improves. Walking away from your device is important. Have regular breaks throughout the day as well as ‘no device’ zones, like meal times or after 9 pm. Charge your phone outside the bedroom, maybe on the landing, and get used to sleeping device free. Allow your mind and body to wind down and not always be running in hyper-vigilant mode. Supporting good mental health includes having varied interests and taking breaks, whilst allowing time for food, fun and good self-care. Enjoying walks and time in nature, either alone or with others, is a good way to detach from the day’s stresses, pressures and unwind. Delegating and accepting offers of help are good decisions. If no offers are forthcoming, ask and let others help. They may not do things in the same way as you, and that's fine, maybe even coming up with better ideas and suggestions which improve your situation and reduce your sense of overwhelm. Equally remember, if you’re quietly plodding along others may think that you’re coping well or prefer to do things yourself. Also, don’t forget that others may be experiencing information overload too. Helpful friends and family may feel that by encouraging you to undertake certain tasks or do what you ‘should’ or ‘ought’ to be doing they’re supporting your success. Be gracious and appreciative of their input and advice, but then step back and reflect on how this affects your personal plan, your future goals and aspirations. You’re the one who has to live with the consequences of your decisions and whatever the personal cost may be. Get over imposter syndrome. You may experience pressure to constantly prove yourself and demonstrate that you can do anything and everything asked of you. So many information sources show people seamlessly moving from one task to the next, mastering technology and proving how competent and capable they are. But these are often adverts and promos, designed to ‘sell’ a particular product, person or technique. They’re rarely ‘real’ life. In times of information overload it can be helpful to list and prioritise how busy you are, to identify what’s incoming and what needs to be done. A list can clear the mind of constant chatter, manage overload and allow more control. And it’s satisfying to review it later and cross off items as they’re done. Learn to tune in to your personal warning signs of being mentally overloaded. Perhaps your sleeping becomes disrupted or you lose your sense of humour, appetite or libido. Then you can intercept and remedy these before they become too serious. When you get to know yourself better you can implement the most efficient ways to support your mental health and manage the dangers of information overload. About the Author - This piece was written by Susan Leigh, Counsellor and Hypnotherapist Find out more by visiting her website here