Search Results

UK top 10 accountancy firm Azets has boosted its London Corporate Finance team with a new hire as business demand grows. Experienced Gaurav Mathur has joined the firm at its London Bridge base as a CF Partner specialising in transactional services. He was previously at PwC for 13 years, most recently as a director in the Transaction Services and a member of the leadership team and had four years at KMPG. Lee Humble, Azets’ Head of UK Corporate Finance said: “Gaurav brings a wealth of experience across various sectors which will be of great benefit to the team and our expanding transactional services offering." “Following another active year in the market, our outlook remains strong on both the buy and sell sides of deals and Gaurav’s appointment highlights our continued investment in talent and our dedication to driving Azets’ growth." “We are now recognised as fourth most active financial advisor both nationally and in London, and with Gaurav’s deep skillset I look forward to having more opportunity to offer advice to some of our larger cross border buy-side clients.” Specialising in financial due diligence and transaction advisory services, Gaurav has successfully worked on more than 200 deals, focusing primarily on business services (including professional advisory), TMT, and Industrials. Over the years, he has led numerous engagements for prominent investors, as well as several large and mid-sized corporations, with varying deal sizes. Additionally, Gaurav successfully completed a two-year strategic secondment with the PE Group in Mumbai, where they advised on several opportunities with a focus on the start-up ecosystem and was also a part of the team leading business development initiatives for PwC UK. Gaurav said: “I am very pleased to have joined such a progressive firm as Azets. It is the ideal time to challenge myself further. I’m excited about the journey ahead and hope to use the skills I have gained in my previous roles to continue to provide clients with the exemplary service they have come to expect." “I have developed strong skills in finance, accounting, financial analysis and valuation. I enjoy working with diverse and talented teams to deliver high-quality solutions that help clients achieve their strategic objectives and create value.” As one of the UK’s most active corporate finance advisory teams, Azets provides trusted, partner-led advice on buying, selling, or raising finance for businesses, including preparing for an exit, acquiring another company, or securing growth capital.

A storage company has put its support behind the Friends of Hamworthy Park charity – to help it keep the popular paddling pool open. Store & Secure, based in Hamworthy, has given the Friends a free unit to store its equipment. The charity fundraises so the council has enough money to maintain the pool and open it each year. The circular paddle-pool was opened in 1931 and is massively popular, but it costs £40,000 a year to run. The water requires testing three times a day and the infrastructure requires regular repairs. Malcom Swords from the Friends of Hamworthy Park said: “We are so grateful to Store & Secure. The unit enables us to store our fundraising and other equipment, saving us a great deal of money.    It means we have more funds which we can use to look after the park and keep the pool open." “We work closely with the council - which has funding shortfalls – to ensure the pool can be opened for six-and-a-half weeks during the height of the holiday season.    It costs around £40,000 a year to maintain it and without our fundraising it wouldn’t open." “People can donate through our website and there are QR codes around the pool. “There is also a café at the pool which is open every day except for Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.” Lucy Maidman, who runs Store & Secure with her ‘storage sister’ Sophie, said: “Hamworthy Park was where we spent our childhood. We were taken to the pool as children and we now take our children there.    It is something generations of people have enjoyed and we are very pleased to play a small part in keeping it open.” The charity is looking for volunteers and for more information contact Malcolm Swords on MalcolmSwords@friendsofhamworthypark.co.uk Photo:  Lucy Maidman, Malcolm Swords from Friends of Hamworthy park, Sophie Maidman, Kavan Wood

Generous JCB employees have delivered another record year for the company’s annual Christmas Toy Appeal – donating an amazing 1,787 gifts.   Donations poured into 15 different collection points across the company’s UK plants when the appeal was launched in November, beating last year’s total of 1,700 presents.  Now the bulk of the gifts have been handed over to Stoke-on-Trent charity the Hubb Foundation for distribution to families in the greatest need.   Hubb Foundation Operations Manager Tom Beecham said: “JCB’s Christmas Toy Appeal means so much to us as a charity and it means so much to the children and families we work with in Stoke-on-Trent. Christmas is a challenging time of year, so to bring some happiness and positivity to children at this time of year is wonderful. We can’t thank JCB and all the employees enough for their ongoing generosity.” The first batch of gifts was delivered to thrilled pupils at the New Ford Academy in Smallthorne, Stoke-on-Trent by JCB-sponsored athlete and Olympic silver medallist Adam Burgess and JCB apprentices Kitty Hulme, Lewis Durham, and Lucy Pepper.   Deputy Head Tracy Moller said: “It was wonderful to see the excitement on the children’s faces as the gifts were distributed. We would like to thank all the fabulous employees at JCB for their generous donations.” Since the appeal’s launch in 2022, employees have donated almost 6,000 gifts for distribution to children and young people. In Wrexham, gifts donated by JCB Transmissions’ employees are being given to the Salvation Army for local distribution. A number of gifts were also donated to Cheadle Primary School for distribution to families.   Helping to co-ordinate this year’s appeal were  JCB apprentices: Kitty Hulme, 20, of Newcastle under-Lyme , Lewis Durham, 20, of Derby , Lucy Pepper, 23, of Stoke-on-Trent , and Will Jenkins, 20, of Stone .

A Lake District resort is adding new lounge space, an outdoor balcony and extra treatment rooms to its 5-star status spa.   English Lakes Hotels Resorts & Venues is investing £500,000 in further development and extension of its facilities in its award winning spa at Low Wood Bay.   The centrepiece of the spa’s transformation will be the newly designed ‘Spa Lounge’, a luxurious, relaxing space for guests to unwind.   Developed in close collaboration with DV8 Designs, Mason Gillibrand Architects and Cubby Construction, the project also includes expanded facilities with 5 new treatment rooms and a balcony with scenic fellside views and access to the spa’s outdoor thermal facilities.   Product development manager at English Lakes Hotels Annabel Berry says: “The team has created a design plan for a serene and stylish environment that draws inspiration from the natural beauty of Windermere and its surrounding fells. The reimagined spa lounge will offer a tranquil and beautifully designed space where guests can relax before or after their treatments." “The spa lounge will open onto the Fell View balcony and outdoor thermal experiences, seamlessly connecting indoor comfort with panoramic Lakeland views. And our newly designed mask bar will invite guests to personalise their skincare experience by sampling a range of treatments tailored to different skin types.” Low Wood Bay was voted the best spa in North West England at the 2025 Good Spa Guide regional awards, having previously been the first spa in the region to attain the highest ‘Five Bubble Luxury’ rating. Earlier in 2025, upgraded spa facilities came on stream, including the Upper Deck with an 18 metre infinity relaxation pool, private seating, fire pits and loungers.   Group operations director at English Lakes Hotels Michael Kay adds: “Our new lounge space blends contemporary design with the beautiful scenery around the resort. It’s a carefully considered development that brings new dimensions of comfort and calm to our stunning spa." “This significant investment underlines our continued commitment to amazing guest experiences. We’re aiming to enhance our reputation as one of the Lake District’s premier destinations for luxury relaxation and holistic wellbeing.”   The project is scheduled for completion by the end of January.

More than 100 community-minded cyclists took part in a 12-hour superhero-themed spinathon in aid of mental health charity Dorset Mind. Held at the West Hants Club in Bournemouth and supported by care home provider Colten Care, AFC Bournemouth Ladies and Team Mind BMX, the indoor static bike marathon raised around £5,000. It was the fourth year the event has been held, with participants booking one or more 25-minute individual slots to do their bit on the pedals in return for a donation. The superhero theme prompted a range of costumes. While instructors Cat and Clare dressed as Wonder Woman and Cat Woman respectively to host a spin studio with classes for the whole day, Colten Care’s Director of Marketing Barney Baxendale cycled for three and a half hours as Bananaman. Barney, a mental health first-aider and Colten Care’s staff welfare lead, said: “The energy and community spirit was amazing. It was an inspiring day from start to finish. To see so many people come together - riding, cheering, supporting one another - was a powerful reminder of the strength and generosity of our local community." “Cat and Clare were extraordinary. Spinning continuously for twelve hours takes not just physical stamina, but real commitment and heart, and they carried the day with such positivity and purpose. Colten Care is proud to have supported an event that raises both vital funds and wider awareness for Dorset Mind.” The spinning was done against a soundtrack that featured 90s girl bands, Ibiza rave and superhero movie themes. West Hants Club members were among those taking part. Chief Executive Peter Elviss said: “The spinathon brought a brilliant atmosphere to the club. Members, friends and staff showed up ready to ride, cheer and pitch in, and the sense of community was clear from the moment Cat and Clare started.” AFC Bournemouth Ladies’ Head Coach Helen Bleazard, and four players, took to the saddle too. Helen, who has participated in all the spinathons so far, said: “It’s such a great occasion. I’m always in awe of how Cat and Clare manage to complete such a monumental challenge. Congratulations to them again and for raising such a great amount for the charity. Hopefully they’ll have the strength to do another one next year.” Among the members of Team Mind BMX who took part were John Twitchen, Vice-Chairman, British Champion Lee Hunt and three elite juniors. John said: "Team Mind is all about bikes and mental health, and so the spinathon is the perfect event to promote the benefits of physical exercise and fun with friends as a way of helping people look after their mental health. With the funds raised going to our own first choice charity, it's a must for us to support this event. Massive well done to the West Hants crew.” Linda O’Sullivan, Chief Executive of Dorset Mind, said: “Another epic achievement from Cat, Clare and everyone at West Hants – 12 hours on a bike, it makes me feel weak at the knees just thinking about it. We hear firsthand what a difference our support makes to people across Dorset, and these vital funds will help us reach more people. We couldn’t be more grateful for this amazing achievement.” Donations can still be made at West Hants Spinathon - JustGiving

Property finance lender MSP Capital has become the latest Patron of the NACFB, the UK’s biggest trade association for commercial finance brokers. The move is designed to strengthen the 45-year-old firm’s capacity to engage with brokers seeking finance solutions for property developers among their client base. Members of the NACFB, standing for National Association of Commercial Finance Brokers, support thousands of SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises), including in the property sector, through funding. Leigh Bartlett, MSP Capital’s Chief Executive, said becoming an NACFB Patron would help with the firm’s strategy to grow its already successful broker channel and contribute to a goal of achieving a loan book worth £750 million or more over the next five years. Leigh said: “We share the NAFCB’s drive to set the highest standards of customer care and their focus on relationship-led lending. That’s what we’re all about too. Our reasons for joining are to broaden our broker network, work with their unrivalled membership base, increase our visibility in the marketplace and strengthen relationships.” Established in 1992, the NAFCB is an independent, not-for-profit association. In 2024, its members facilitated more than three quarters of the UK’s entire £38 billion broker-led SME lending market. As a Patron, MSP Capital will work to uphold the NACFB’s charter and code of practice, championing professional standards and reinforcing the confidence of SMEs to work with brokers. NACFB Chief Executive Jim Higginbotham said: “We’re really pleased to welcome MSP Capital as a Patron of the association. Their longstanding presence in the property finance space and their commitment to working closely with brokers align strongly with the values we look for in our Patron community." “We look forward to supporting their engagement with the intermediary sector and to working together to strengthen outcomes for the SMEs and clients our members serve.” MSP Capital’s decision to become an NAFCB Patron comes just weeks after the lender reduced pricing across its bridging and development loan products in a separate strategic move aimed at supporting the market. Brokers and developers can now access MSP Capital bridging deals from 0.75% per month up to 75% LTV and development loans from 0.80% up to 70% LTGDV. For more information, visit here .

National painting contractor, Bagnalls, has triumphed at the National Apprenticeship and Skills Awards 2025, winning The Aptem Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Award. Having previously been named as the regional winner of this accolade for the Yorkshire and Humber area, Bagnalls has come out on top again, this time as the overall national winner. The awards themselves, organised by the Department of Education, receive over 1,100 entries every single year. These submissions come from both companies and individuals across a range of sectors, including construction, IT, science, healthcare and many more. This placed Bagnalls in direct competition with various household names, including supermarket giant, Tesco and construction heavyweight, Kier Group, both of which were Highly Commended within the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Award category. Designed to champion and reward the achievements of exceptionally talented and dedicated apprentices and T Level students, the awards also recognise the support and efforts of apprenticeship and T Level employers. Stephen Bagnall, Group Managing Director at Bagnalls, commented: “We are honoured to have been named National Winner of The Aptem Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Award, especially as the National Apprenticeship and Skills Awards celebrates its 22nd anniversary!" “EDI is incredibly important to us as a company, gifting us with a varied team that has the skills and experience to tackle whatever comes our way! Plus, with a significant number of our management team beginning their careers with us as apprentices, our apprenticeship scheme remains one of our most important and rewarding assets.” Bagnalls’ Group People Director, Ellie Jobes, said of the win: “This award is a wonderful recognition that all of our Bagnalls branches are working together to promote apprenticeships across a diverse audience." “We have seen a particular impact in increasing number of female painters, as well as supporting those joining the industry from low-income backgrounds. I want to say a huge thank you to all of our colleagues who work tirelessly every day to make sure that our apprentices have a positive experience working for Bagnalls.” Find out more about Bagnalls’ apprenticeship scheme and why the company is so passionate about supporting the next generation of young talent entering the painting and decorating industry.

After more than two years of commissioning, Robinsons Brewery have completed their £8.4 million investment in their new brewery. The announcement comes after the family brewers shared that test brewing had begun at their new brewhouse earlier in the year. Reflection on the transition, Oliver Robinson said, “It was a big decision to move our brewhouse from Stockport town centre after more than 185 years and six generations of brewing history. However, we had to look to our future and ensure our business is sustainable for our future generations. Our business has evolved over the years, and this has meant we have adapted our brewing operations to ensure a viable future for our brewing”. Brewing remains vital to Robinsons business plans, with cask beer production and sales bucking the industry trends. Across Robinsons pubs sales of cask beer are five times the on-trade average making up 28% off all beer sales. Having consolidated their brewing and packaging onto one site, Robinsons have already made great energy savings in gas, electric and water usage. The new brewhouse, which has been fully commissioned since March, has already seen the brewery’s energy consumption drop by 12%. Oliver went on to say, “The efforts of the teams involved in this project has been incredible. From our property team, and the external contractors; to the dedication and passion of our Project Brewing team, who have been heavily involved right from the start. It has been a huge investment and of course not without its logistical challenges, but to be in the position we’re in now, it really is testament to the knowledge and commitment of our team." "The way the wider brewing and production teams have come together this year, to learn and operate the new brewhouse also deserves a mention. It’s a big change to have undergone for our brew teams, some of whom have been with us for over 40 years – but they’ve embraced it. We’ve got a fantastic amount of brewing experience within the business and we’re incredibly proud of that. The experience of our team has ensured the beer quality remains excellent, and the change has gone unnoticed by our customers, to that we owe great thanks.”

Global L&D powerhouse Insights Learning and Development is delighted to reveal the appointment of Tricia Nelson as its new Global Marketing, Brand and Sales Director. Tricia’s appointment completes Insights executive leadership structure and an appointment of this calibre reflects the scale of their global growth ambition. In her new role at Insights, Tricia will be at the forefront of Insights' global growth agenda in and beyond the 109 countries in which they currently operate. Her remit includes leading the people development company’s marketing, brand and sales channels, expanding its global market impact and strengthening the company’s commercial performance. With more than 20 years’ senior leadership experience across consulting and industry, Tricia joins Insights with deep commercial and transformation expertise. She brings extensive senior leadership experience operating across Logistics, Financial Services, Energy, Transport and Media sectors.  She joins Insights following a distinguished career at EY, where she most recently served as UK & Ireland Managing Partner for People Advisory Services, People Consulting Leader and Global Client Service Partner. During her tenure she also served as the Advisory Talent Leader and Partner Sponsor for Corporate & Social Responsibility. Tricia brings with her a wealth of passion for the role that purpose led organisations can play in making a positive impact on the world. She is known for her entrepreneurial thinking, growth mindset and ability to building high-performing teams, which is at the core of Insights’ purpose. Tricia Nelson commented: “In today’s increasingly complex business environment, organisations need leaders and teams who can adapt fast, collaborate well and drive measurable performance. That’s why Insights has never been more relevant and why I’m excited to help amplify the impact we can make for customers around the world." "I completed my first Insights Discovery profile 17 years ago while working in financial services, it had a significant impact on me and I’ve been inspired ever since by the unique ways which Insights has been used to transform organisations and their people." "Insights’ vision closely aligns with my own ‘people-first’ transformation philosophy of building purpose-driven, inclusive cultures where everyone feels empowered to thrive." "Self-awareness is becoming a core commercial capability globally and joining an organisation where the passion and purpose behind the work is so tangible is incredibly meaningful to me." "I’m excited to connect with colleagues and clients across the world and, together, deliver sustainable, ambitious growth and expand Insights global impact.” Fiona Logan, CEO of Insights, added: “We are delighted to welcome Tricia to complete our executive team She is an exceptional leader with a proven record of driving growth, transformation and cultural change." “Tricia’s experience, energy and values align perfectly with our ambition to significantly expand the impact of our purpose in the world. We are thrilled to have her on board at such an important stage in our journey.”

Co. Armagh-based Avondale Foods has grown from a family farm in Craigavon to one of Northern Ireland’s most recognisable food producers. At the heart of that journey sits a partnership with M&S that has now spanned nearly six decades – a relationship that continues to evolve just a few miles from the renewed M&S Craigavon store. Founded in 1965 by brothers Harry and Derek Geddis, Avondale began by growing vegetables for local retailers. The company started supplying lettuce to M&S in 1968 and has since expanded its range to include products found on M&S Foodhall shelves across the UK and Ireland. By the 1980s, Avondale had become the first company in Northern Ireland to manufacture coleslaw, establishing itself as one of the leading suppliers in the UK and Ireland – and marking a major milestone in its growing partnership with M&S. Today, remains the sole supplier of M&S coleslaw and potato salad across the UK and Ireland. Alongside these classics, the company also produces a diverse range of products, including stuffed mushrooms, croutons, stir-fry sauces, noodles and, more recently, overnight oats – all made in its custom-built facility in Lurgan. Talking about the relationship with M&S, Greer Geddis, son of the late founder Derek Geddis and now one of the company’s directors, says the key to their success lies in a shared commitment to quality. "What M&S expect of us, we expect of our own suppliers," Greer explains. "We bring everyone together a few times a year and refresh the focus on quality. When we’re discussing new products, quality always comes first. I believe that’s at the core of our longstanding relationship." The partnership thrives on innovation as much as tradition. “We love it when M&S set us a challenge,” he adds. “Many of the products you see on shelves began exactly that way.” As food trends evolved, Avondale saw growing demand for healthy, convenient breakfasts. “Once we entered the oats side of things, we saw huge potential. Flavours like apple crumble, salted caramel – and now something festive. When M&S asked for a new, innovative Christmas product, our Gingerbread Overnight Oats were born. It’s a seasonal product we’re really proud to see on M&S shelves this year." And the Gingerbread Overnight Oats are just the beginning. “Breakfast isn’t slowing down,” says Greer. “People want great-tasting, convenient options. This new addition for M&S is just the start.” Innovation, he adds, is non-negotiable. “We have to keep evolving. M&S are innovators too – they want products that catch the eye, taste amazing, and meet the highest standards. That’s what keeps our partnership moving forward. We’re approaching 60 years as an M&S supplier, and we’re proud of how our relationship continues to grow.” Reflecting on the partnership, Laura Harper, M&S Country Director for Ireland and Northern Ireland, said: “Avondale Foods perfectly represents the values that define our relationships with local suppliers – quality, innovation, and trust. Their commitment to excellence and their ability to continually evolve with our customers’ needs have made them an invaluable partner for almost 60 years. As we celebrate the renewal of our Craigavon store, it’s wonderful to shine a light on a local business that has played such an important role in bringing the very best of Northern Ireland to our shelves.” From family-farm vegetables to festive oats, the Avondale and M&S partnership continues to thrive – driven by curiosity, quality, and a shared passion for great food. As M&S Craigavon prepares for an exciting new chapter with the transformation of its store, Avondale’s story stands as a proud example of local suppliers at the heart of M&S innovation and success.

An award-winning Derby restaurant is celebrating the launch of its new menu with what could be the biggest ever restaurant giveaway in the Midlands, worth £1200. Nicco Restaurant & Bar, based in Pride Park, is sharing its love of great food with an incredible Instagram giveaway. One lucky follower will win £100 worth of food every month throughout 2026: that’s a whole year of flavour-packed dining on Nicco’s. The Derby favourite is already known for its globe-trotting menu after co-owners Bhav and Sanj Kumar clocked up more than 34,000 miles in culinary inspiration for their core menu which blends authentic heritage recipes with international influences. Now, the team has gone one step further and has unveiled a new collection of dishes, including one heartfelt addition straight from the head chef’s own childhood kitchen. While food trends may come and go, there’s something timeless about dishes that rekindle a sense of home, and that’s exactly what head chef Surjeet Kumar, 43, has created with his latest addition to the menu. Introducing Methi Chicken, marinated tender chicken pieces cooked with fresh earthy fenugreek leaves, a dish that originates from Northern India and Surjeet’s home city of Delhi. Having been inspired to become a chef by his mother after spending time with her in the kitchen from the age of 13, Surjeet went on to hone his culinary skills in various hospitality roles before moving to the UK in 2010. Surjeet said: “This is a traditional and homely dish, one that my mother and I would cook at least once a week.” Using a recipe passed down from his mum to retain its authenticity, the dish was given the ultimate seal of approval when she visited the UK last month. He said: “I surprised her, simply telling her I wanted to share the latest addition to the menu. She was very emotional, happy and proud when she tasted it, saying it was exactly how we used to make it at home in Delhi. For me, this is a taste of home, that warmth and love from a home-cooked meal that I’d like to share with our customers.” "And it seems that although only just introduced on the menu, customers are already sharing the love for this dish. Restaurant manager Kam Odedra said the feedback has been “amazing”, with one diner calling it “one of the best dishes on the menu.” Other new additions include Crunchy Kurkure, a corn snack tossed with onions, tomatoes and coriander, finished with lemon juice; Crispy Chicken Bao, featuring fried chicken tenders coated in a rich makhani sauce and served in steamed bao buns; and Jackfruit Curry, a deep-fried jackfruit in a creamy masala sauce with burnt onions, chillies, garlic and lemon. Taster Thalis are also now available in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian versions, alongside the Club Maharaja Sandwich, which brings together toasted sourdough, grilled chicken, turkey bacon and a fried egg. If this has whet your appetite, here’s how you can enjoy it free every month for a year in Nicco’s incredible Instagram giveaway. Just head over to Nicco’s Instagram page, follow the steps on their giveaway post, and you could be enjoying their delicious new dishes all year long. Co-owner Bhav Kumar said: “This menu really celebrates the diversity of our team and the experiences that have shaped them. Our chefs come from different parts of the world, and that’s reflected in the dishes. From heartfelt heritage recipes like Surjeet’s Methi Chicken to fusion plates inspired by our travels, every item on the menu tells a story.” Since opening in 2021, Nicco has become one of Derby’s most popular dining destinations, known for its contemporary Indian fusion food, creative cocktails and stylish interiors. The restaurant’s name was inspired by the couple’s son, while their daughter’s name features in one of the cocktails on the menu. Bhav added: “We’ve always loved experimenting with flavours from around the world, but everything we do is rooted in our Indian heritage. This new menu is about sharing those stories and experiences through food.” The winner of the giveaway will be announced on Christmas Day – now that’s one present that you won’t want to return!

The Keyhole Heart Clinic expands to The Park Hospital — led by University of Nottingham graduate and national Entrepreneur of the Year, Dr Inder Birdi. Patients across the Midlands can now access world-class keyhole heart surgery closer to home, after The Keyhole Heart Clinic officially launched its regional base at The Park Hospital, Nottingham. The milestone was marked by the successful completion of a minimally invasive aortic valve replacement, carried out by Dr Inder Birdi and the hospital’s cardiac team, the first of many advanced procedures planned for the region. Learning that one needs open-heart surgery can be a daunting prospect, not least because it traditionally involves splitting the breastbone and a lengthy recovery period. Dr Inder Birdi and his team at The Keyhole Heart Clinic have spent more than 20 years developing and performing keyhole techniques that avoid this entirely. Instead of opening the chest, surgeons work through small incisions between the ribs, meaning less pain, a lower risk of infection, and recovery measured in days rather than months. For Dr Birdi, who trained at the University of Nottingham, the launch represents a proud homecoming. “This moment means a great deal to me personally,” said Dr Birdi. “I began my medical journey here in Nottingham, so to return and introduce these pioneering keyhole techniques with such a skilled local team feels incredibly special.” Dr Birdi, who was recently named UK Entrepreneur of the Year at Entrepreneurs Circle’s National Entrepreneurs Awards, founded The Keyhole Heart Clinic in London to make advanced, minimally invasive heart surgery more accessible to patients across the UK. “Scaling excellence means stepping back and letting great teams step forward,” Dr Birdi added. “True growth — in medicine or any field — comes from trust, systems, and shared values that allow excellence to happen everywhere, not just in one place. That begins here in Nottingham but this is just the start.” Over the next 12 months, the partnership at The Park Hospital will expand to offer the full range of keyhole heart procedures, ensuring patients across the Midlands can benefit from the latest innovations in cardiac care without needing to travel to London.