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Three friends from the same town in India who all started new lives in south Warwickshire, have together realised their shared vision of running a restaurant. Aby Joseph, Thomas Mathew and Joshi Johny have come to the business from a wide variety of backgrounds, including health care, film production, mechanical engineering and food – to open the doors to Fusion Clan in Warwick. The co-owners are keen to bring influences from their home state of Kerala in southern India, to add a twist to the traditional authentic Indian cuisine. The restaurant, which replaces The Pickled Crab in Smith Street, promises a ‘unique’ menu of Indian ingredients fused with European recipes, with the emphasis on new and experimental flavours. Fusion Clan sees the fruition of a long-held dream for the entrepreneurial trio who have all taken the leap into hospitality. And for Aby and Thomas it’s a world away from their current careers. Aby, 37, who now lives in Warwick, relocated from Kerala to Stratford at the age of 24 to pursue his nursing career and is now Clinical Services Manager in Stratford. Aby’s selflessness, leadership, and empathy in helping with residents' and staff’s safety and well-being throughout the pandemic, led to him making headlines last year when he was awarded the British Empire Medal. This honour recognises people who have made achievements in public life, committed themselves to serving and helping the UK, and who make life better for others by being outstanding at what they do. Aby, who has been passionate about food since teaching himself to cook at university, is looking forward to bringing local diners in on their culinary adventure into new flavours and fusions. He said: “The first time I went out for an Indian meal after arriving in the UK, I really liked it. . . but it was nothing to do with India. This is not the usual thing I would eat back home, I thought, so how can they say this is Indian? There are some very popular dishes over here that are actually nothing to do with India, not authentic at all. Then I went to another restaurant and it was the same story. So wherever you go, it's the same taste, you don't get something different." “I always wanted to run my own business and for the last 10 years the three of us would talk about having a restaurant. We planned on doing it much sooner but then Covid changed everything.” For Thomas, 47, from Stratford, the venture could not be more different from his 20 years spent as a mechanical engineer with Kuwait Airways and, more recently, as a film producer. With his first movie, John Luther, proving popular on Amazon Prime, the second project is already under way, with Thomas set to take time away from his front of house role for filming on set, including partly in the UK, this year. The pair have been friends since 2011 but it was only after a chance meeting with experienced chef Joshi Johny , in Stratford, that their vision began to take shape. Joshi, 44, was formerly a chef at the TATA Taj Residency (Cochin, India) Peacock Hotel, in Kenilworth, Ettington Chase and Crowne Plaza Hotels in Stratford and Walton Hall in Wellesbourne and is now in charge of the culinary vision for Fusion Clan. He said: “I wanted to create dishes influenced by our roots, using unique and authentic south Indian spices but fusing them with European dishes, so adding new flavours. There has been lots of experimenting until I perfected the menu and diners so far are complimenting us on how different the experience is." “I’m striving to create a fine dining experience that people can afford. There’s lots of different elements, each and every one freshly prepared on the plate, right down to the sauces. We are excited to share this food because we know people are going to love it.” Joshi oversees a menu using local meats, fruits and vegetables alongside the specially sourced spices and rices from Kerala, including jeerakasala rice, more fragrant and flavoursome rice which is included in the Geographical Indication registry of India. He is particularly proud of his signature recipe Kumarakom to Cornwall, Kumarakom style local preparation of Cassava and a Keralan spiced grilled seabass dish, served with tamarind-infused sauce. Diners might be surprised to see popular British dishes such as steak, lamb shank, Cumberland sausage and roast potatoes also feature on the menu – but, of course, with Joshi’s own Asian twist! Plans for the future of Fusion Clan include opening an upstairs space for private events as well as introducing a takeaway menu. In the meantime, Aby, Thomas and Joshi are content in bringing along as many people as possible on what they describe as ‘a culinary journey of discovery like no other seen before in the area.’

Despite challenging conditions, the number of UK digital microbusinesses turning over more than £100,000-a-year grew substantially during 2023, and almost a fifth (17%) now bring in six-figure sums, according to new figures published today. The findings come from Venture Forward, a multi-year research initiative by GoDaddy that analyses data from more than half a million UK digital microbusinesses – typically those with fewer than 10 employees. It shows resilience from UK entrepreneurs during the soaring cost-of-living with the number of microbusinesses turning over more than £100,000 being up from 11% last year. The growth is similar for microbusinesses bringing in over £50,000, which stands at 33% today compared with 25% last year. In comparison, the median annual earnings for full-time employees in the UK was approximately £34,963 in 2023. GoDaddy’s data shows the value of e-commerce for fast-growth businesses. 55% of entrepreneurs who own microbusinesses that are turning over more than £100,000 annually say that their website provides the main source of their income. A fifth (21%) invested their initial capital into a website when launching their venture, underlining the importance of digital infrastructure. Of businesses that are now turning over more than £100,000 a year, over half (54%) were started in the past three years, demonstrating the speed at which successful digital businesses can be built. Many digital microbusinesses required relatively small initial investments – 43% were started with less than £5,000 of initial capital, as digital tools reduce the barriers to entry entrepreneurs looking to start a new venture. Remarkably, one in five (21%) said their company cost them as little as £500 to create. E-commerce platforms enable bricks-and-mortar only entrepreneurs to enlarge their catchment area, reaching a wider selection of customers, selling in more ways and becoming truly unstoppable. A website also means the business can run 24/7 without the need for employees to man the shop, so sales can take place outside of opening hours. The opportunities offered by setting up an online presence are likely to continue in 2024, as: • Over four fifths (83%) of people who own +£100,000 microbusinesses are optimistic for growth • In contrast, just one in five (22%) say they are confident in the UK economy as a whole • 1 in 3 microbusinesses in the UK are ‘breadwinners’, contributing 51% or more to household income • About 1 in 4 women with a microbusiness in the UK are the ‘breadwinners’ in their home The GoDaddy data shows that six-figure turnovers take time – but not necessarily money – to achieve. Over half (58%) of owners with £100,000-a-year microbusinesses work over 40 hours a week on their venture, whilst only 27% of all microbusiness owners said they do the same. Andrew Gradon, Head of GoDaddy UK & Ireland said: “It is remarkable to see that so many entrepreneurs have built six figure businesses – many with very minor initial investment – and that the trend is going upwards, as we’ve seen an increase of 55% on digital microbusinesses bringing in over £100,000 revenue. It is testament to the strength of Britian’s small business community, and the fact that British entrepreneurs really are unstoppable." “Entrepreneurs who operate bricks and mortar only businesses are potentially missing out on huge growth at minimal cost, so there has never been a better time to diversify and sell in more ways”.

More than 500 Leicestershire families have opened their hearts and homes to Ukrainian families since the start of conflict. The county has become a safe space for refugees fleeing war, with families connecting over simple things like food, Netflix and sharing daily routines. Saturday 24 Feb marks two years since the Russian invasion of Ukraine and a big thank you has been offered to all the residents who have welcomed guests into their homes and lives. Councillor Deborah Taylor, cabinet member for children and families at Leicestershire County Council, which runs the Government’s Homes for Ukraine scheme locally, said: “The response here in Leicestershire has truly been heart-warming with families opening-up their homes and showing real humanity and compassion." “We also know that some life-long relationships have been made through these connections. We cannot emphasise enough the very real difference this has made; We’d like to offer a huge thank-you to all of our wonderful hosts." “We are still in need of more families to help-out, so if this is something you’re interested in, please do get in touch.” Lea and her partner Sam have been supporting Yana and her daughter Eva (6) from Dnipro. Lea said: “Our story is different to most, as Yana and Eva had already been in the UK for several months and were quite settled with another wonderful family." “We were contacted by the council as Yana was advised to move closer to Leicester for her medical needs. We were both surprised by how little we needed to think about the decision – it all seemed quite straight forward, and the matching coordinator of the council was with us every step of the way.” She added that the families bonded through activities such as cooking together, watching Netflix (with subtitles), doing their nails together and sharing pictures. Lea continued: “We love to cook and so we were so pleased when Yana offered to cook us some meals. She makes the most amazing and hearty Ukrainian dishes and desserts. For my birthday she brought a traditional Ukrainian honey cake as well, which was delicious.” Communication was initially achieved via smart language apps and a few basic words, but Yana has made great headway with English thanks to a course organised by the council. She said: “It was mentally difficult for me to start living in another country. People and the state provide enormous support for which we are very grateful." “It’s very different from Ukraine, there are other people, other food, other life. The sociability and openness of people is amazing. Complete strangers can say hello to you, everyone smiles at each other. " “It is a big and noble decision to welcome complete strangers into your home. Not everyone can decide to take such a step.” Lea added that her message to would-be hosts is: “Don’t overthink it! If your experience is anything like ours you will make new friends, experience a new culture from your own home and be able to help someone who will be forever grateful.” If you live in Leicestershire and would like to know more about hosting a Ukrainian family, including available support, payments and information about the process, visit here.

Aston University is delighted to announce that it has appointed one of the UK’s most respected and successful business leaders, Sir Peter Rigby, as honorary chair of its new Digital Futures Institute. The announcement of Sir Peter’s appointment was made in front of guests at the inaugural lecture given by Professor Abdul Sadka, director of the Digital Futures Institute, at Aston University. Sir Peter founded SCC – the largest privately owned Information Technology Group in Europe – some 50 years ago in 1975. SCC is the core business focus of the Rigby Group which ranks highly in the UK’s top privately owned businesses and its non-core interests extend beyond technology, transformation and technology investments into real estate, airports and hotels. Aston University and SCC signed a Memorandum of Understanding in March 2023, forming a strategic partnership to drive digital innovation and digital inclusion. The establishment of the Digital Futures Institute represents Aston University’s long-term commitment to digital innovation. Working at the interfaces between health, digital and technology, the Institute is focused on transformational impact and economic regeneration of the region, particularly through the development of a digital powerhouse in the Birmingham Innovation Quarter (B-IQ). The appointment reflects Sir Peter’s achievements as a technology innovator, his passionate commitment to the development of digital skills and wider contributions to the region. The Institute will be based on the main Aston University campus and will be officially opened in September 2024. Professor Aleks Subic, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Aston University, said: “We are delighted that Sir Peter has agreed to be the inaugural honorary chair of the Digital Futures Institute at Aston University. We share many common goals, including a determination to accelerate digital innovation and digital inclusion to benefit business and society. Sir Peter’s support, advocacy and insight will be a great asset to the new Institute.” Sir Peter Rigby said: “I accepted the position because I believe the work of the Institute will make an impact on some of the most important issues facing society – namely digital inclusion and socially responsible transformation – and particularly the application of AI and helping to accelerate AI backed products and services to market." "There is strong synergy between Aston and SCC, and this formalised last year into a strategic partnership focused on driving the application and deployment of digital technologies and digital skills. The Digital Futures Institute is the focal point for this partnership." "As Honorary Chair of the Institute, I hope to provide guidance, support and advocacy to ensure strong links to cutting-edge digital technologies in industry."

The UK’s largest airline easyJet is this week celebrating carrying over five million passengers to and from Birmingham airport. To mark the occasion, easyJet surprised two lucky travellers at Birmingham airport Rachel and Thomas Caulton from Cheltenham who were flying to Geneva, with a pair of return flights to anywhere on easyJet’s network. The airline launched operations at Birmingham airport in 2007, flying its first customers from Birmingham also to Geneva. 17 years later, the launch of a new three-aircraft base is enabling the airline to further expand its Birmingham network with 16 new routes taking off with the base opening on 18 March 2024 including to Antalya, Barcelona and Sharm el Sheikh meaning easyJet will connect customers in the Midlands via 29 routes across the UK, Europe and North Africa. The airline’s first base opening in the UK in over a decade will create around 100 direct jobs for pilots and crew and over 1,200 more indirect jobs. easyJet is the largest airline in the UK and currently employs around ten thousand people across England, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The new base opening will also see easyJet holidays, the UK’s fastest growing tour operator, offer thousands more package holidays and city breaks from Birmingham to over 100 European destinations with a choice of up to 5,000 hotels. All easyJet holidays include flights, hotel, 23kg luggage per person, and transfers on beach holidays secured with a deposit of just £60 per person. All breaks are covered by Ultimate Flexibility, which includes a Best Price Guarantee meaning if customers find holidays cheaper elsewhere, a discount of the price difference will be applied to their booking. Ali Gayward, easyJet's UK Country Manager, said: “We are delighted to celebrate carrying over five million passengers from Birmingham as we prepare to open our new base next month and start flying customers to even more destinations in the UK, Europe and North Africa. We remain focused on offering great value fares, convenient connections and more choice for our customers in the Midlands, and we can’t wait to welcome them onboard.” Tom Screen, Aviation Director of Birmingham Airport said: "With just 25 days to go until easyJet launch based operations at Birmingham Airport, it was a pleasure to present the five millionth easyJet passenger with their prize. Reaching this milestone is a testament to the ever-strengthening relationship between Birmingham Airport and easyJet."

Finance and accounting recruitment specialist Michael Way has joined Pertemps to bolster the team in Edinburgh. Though he will be based in Edinburgh and focus on the professional services division for Scotland East, Michael will support financial sector clients across the UK seeking to add to their talent rosters. He brings more than 10 years’ experience in client-facing roles in sectors such as finance and accountancy, business support, tax and legal, and office services and solutions, both in the UK and internationally. Michael, who takes on the role of Manager, said: “I am really looking forward to the challenges in this new role with Pertemps. Many larger firms are focusing on retention currently but they still need higher-level colleagues to help build teams and move the business forward. I will be focusing on working with clients on long-terms recruitment strategies to ensure they maintain a talent pipeline to help the business thrive.” Nic Barr, Pertemps Director for Scotland and Northeast England, said: “We are delighted to welcome Michael on board." “He will be an invaluable addition to the team with his experience with the big four accountancy firms, Fortune 500 multinationals and professional services practices as the business continues to expand in the region.” Pertemps Network Group is one of the UK’s largest privately-owned recruitment agencies. It has a turnover in excess of £1bn and offers immediate and strategic solutions to clients across both the public and private sectors

Sustainable Beachwear brand Randy Cow has secured two investments from dragons on the business TV programme Dragon's Den. Surrey-based founder of Randy Cow, Dave Weller stepped into the famous Den before stepping out with big-hitters Peter Jones and Touker Suleyman both offering investment in the quirky brand. Peter Jones was first to make an offer, suggesting that it would be a journey best taken with both him and Touker Suleyman, together. Dave countered and finally hands were shook. Dave explains, “It was a bit of a whirlwind experience from the beginning, through to filming. The Dragons aren’t called Dragons for no reason! They definitely put me through my paces during the experience, and at one point I thought we were not going to get the slightest hint of interest. But out of nowhere I suddenly had two offers from the 2 men which I had hoped to get interest from.” And on the experience overall, Dave says, “Looking back it was a fun, but definitely stressful experience. The Dragons all have such different personalities and angles of questioning - and there was a lot of crossfire! But behind it all I did get the sense they do wish you the best.” Following the show Dave is excited for the journey ahead, “It remains to be seen what happens next for Randy Cow, but I’m certainly excited to now have a ‘Dragon Approved’ brand.” Randy Cow is an award winning, sustainable beachwear brand with a cheeky sense of humour and a goal to do good. From products being made from recycled plastics, to funding the removal of plastic from entering our oceans (in partnership with Ocean Co) with every sale of swim shorts, Randy Cow puts the eco agenda high up the priority list. Randy Cow’s flagship products are their Waterproof Pocket Swim Shorts, which boost a 100% Waterproof Pocket which will keep its contents safe and dry down to 30m. Randy Cow have grown in popularity since launching in 2019; being sold in Selfridges, John Lewis, and luxury hotel resorts such as Waldorf Astoria and Ritz Carlton. They have graced the runways at New York Fashion Week and Miami Swim Week to great accolades and were also branded ‘Style & Substance’ by GQ magazine. With several awards under their belt from Men’s Swimwear Brand of the Year (Corporate LiveWire Global Awards 2022/23) to a renowned 5 Star Luxury Review Award (Luxuria Lifestyle Magazine), Randy Cow’s products are hailed as the “Best Swim Shorts Ever” and their attention to detail and customer service is a “Hidden Gem.” They are certainly here to make a splash. As Dave concludes; “We want to be the brand that always brings out a good feeling in people. Whether it’s our great products or charity and eco-helping efforts, but also for how we are with real people and the opportunity to make a difference." "To paraphrase a legend: 'I don’t know exactly how we will get there, but I guarantee it won’t be boring!'” For more information about Randy Cow visit www.randycow.com

New research from BusinessComparison has identified which sectors, industries and career paths experience the most work-related stress, as well as which UK regions. Work-related stress is a serious issue that can affect any individual’s mental and physical health. It also has a significant effect on the workplace, lowering morale, reducing productivity and even leading to resignations, if the causes of the stress are not resolved. BusinessComparison’s new research found that across all industries, one in ten British workers experience stress, at 12.5%. But when you dig deeper into the data, which are the highest stress occupations? Philip Brennan, Founder and MD at BusinessComparison, comments: “Our new research has revealed some useful insights into which professions are most likely to experience work-related stress. Business owners who run a customer-facing company should definitely be aware of the high risk of stress for them and their employees - at 27% affected by stress, they have the highest level of stress of all the professions we researched." “Working to reduce stress in your workplace isn’t just about being an ethical employer. It’s a good business practice that will help you retain staff and keep productivity high. The NHS have a useful work-related stress page that links to resources for staff at any level, with guidance specifically for business owners and managers, as well as tips that anyone can use to help manage their stress.” Highest Stress Occupations The most stressed profession was customer service occupations, 27% of those in the sector reporting stress. This was followed by services occupations at 23.6%, cleaning occupations at 22.9% and storage occupations at 21.7%. Finally, the fifth highest stress occupation was that of web and multimedia design professions, 20.9% of whom reported experiencing stress. Lowest Stress Occupations The occupation with the lowest stress level was production managers and directors, only 4% of whom said they experienced stress this year. Science, engineering and production technicians followed, at 5.6%. 5% of managers and proprietors in health and care services experienced stress. Lastly, the fifth lowest stress levels last year belonged to those in sports and fitness occupations, at 6.5%. The study also investigates these professions’ changes in stress levels over the last 5 years. Looking back over the past 5 years, you can see that some occupations have experienced dramatic shifts in their stress levels. • Customer service professionals/shopkeepers and sales supervisors: Could both of these professions’ stress have begun to rise in 2022 after customer-facing businesses reopening in the wake of Covid-19? • Managers and proprietors of health and care services: It’s likely that Covid-19 had a significant impact on this profession’s rising stress in 2021, with care homes experiencing great difficulty protecting vulnerable residents from the virus. • Sports and fitness occupations: According to the State of UK Fitness Industry Report 2023, the industry is thriving - could this have contributed to lower stress? • Managers and directors in transport and logistics: Rising stress could be caused by increased costs of fuel and labour. The Most and Least Stressed UK Regions Northern Ireland is more than 5% more stressed than the UK average at 17.7%. There are four more regions with a higher than average level of stress: London, the East Midlands, Scotland and lastly, Yorkshire and Humberside. On the other hand, the North East was just under the national average at 10.8% affected. Also, a full percentage point lower in stress than average were the South West and the South East. It’s clear to see that some work-related stress is caused by nationwide events such as Covid-19 and increased costs caused by inflation. However, the fact that some occupations are more stressed than others is significant. It means that, as employers, there is a responsibility to assess any risk factors in your industry that could lead to you or your employees experiencing stress or burnout - it’s harmful for business, and for individual wellbeing.

Despite cold temperatures, darker mornings and evenings, and tougher road conditions, many individuals continue to cycle. This determination has been particularly evident at the start of the year when numerous cyclists make New Year Resolutions to commute to work by bicycle. As daylight gradually increases, this goal becomes somewhat easier to achieve. However, it is important to bear in mind that winter persists. Cycling in the winter requires additional caution and attention to unique challenges posed by chilly temperatures, icy roads, and limited visibility. During the winter months, cyclists should proactively implement safety measures to navigate these challenges and ensure a safe ride. James Whitten, Marketing Manager at cycleGuard says: “Ensuring your bicycle is well-protected from the harsh conditions of winter enhances your safety but also contributes to prolonging your bike’s overall lifespan." Leading cycle and e-bike insurer cycleGuard shares effective tips to help cyclists stay safe during winter cycling. Bike winter tyres It is worthwhile fitting a pair of winter tyres to take all that winter can throw at the bike. Not only will the cyclist get an added grip on uncertain surfaces, but they will also benefit from extra puncture protection. In addition, wider tyres (25mm-28mm) can be run at a lower pressure which will provide additional grip and comfort in icy conditions. Mudguards Winter roads often carry mud and grit, causing splashes that can catch both the cyclist and those riding behind. By fitting mudguards, these sprays can be reduced, ensuring a more enjoyable and cleaner ride. Lights and reflectors During winter many bike commutes are undertaken in the dark, therefore ensuring a bike is fitted with good quality lights and reflectors is an absolute must. Every bike should have at least one, and preferably two rear lights ready for winter in addition to a front light. Reflectors also provide added visibility and can be a lifesaver if the bike’s lights run out of batteries during a ride in the gloom. Applying car wax This is an effective way of sealing the surfaces of the bike and preventing harmful grime, grit, and dirt from gaining a foothold. After cleaning the bike, spread the wax on with a cloth, allow it to dry and then wipe off. Repeat and then buff to a high polish. “There are many steps you can take to make winter cycling easier, but it is important to keep yourself and your bike safe. At cycleGuard, we’re serious about providing cover to cyclists of all abilities” adds Whitten. Find out more about cycleGuard’s bicycle insurance here:

A unique JCB tartan tractor has rolled off the production line at Staffordshire’s JCB Landpower factory honouring Scottish rugby legend and motor neuron disease (MND) campaigner Doddie Weir.   The Fastrac 4220 iCON wrapped in Doddie’s own design tartan livery was welcomed off the Cheadle production line by son Angus Weir, ready to report for fundraising duty with the ‘My Name’5 Doddie Foundation’.   Scottish and British and Irish Lions international, Doddie, who died of MND, aged 52, in 2022, founded the charity to fund research with the vision of ‘A world free of MND’. So far, more than £11 million has been committed to vital research in his name and the Foundation is dedicated to continuing the fight against the cruel disease.   The Doddie iCON Fastrac is the brainchild of Doddie’s schoolfriend and Director of Crop Services in the Scottish Borders, Douglas Stephen, who joined Angus for the unveiling. Douglas operates a number of Fastrac tractors, and approached his JCB Dealer, Kelso-based Scot Agri to build a special edition machine in support of the Foundation.   The blue and yellow tartan tractor will make starring appearances at major agricultural shows and rugby games north of the border over the coming months raising funds for the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation. The grand tour will begin at the Royal Northern Spring Show, Inverurie on February 28th before moving on to the Fife, Northumberland, Royal Highland, Border Union, Perth Shows and many other agricultural events over the summer.   Angus Weir said: “It has been fantastic to be here to unveil the new Doddie tartan tractor. Dad would have absolutely loved it and I’m sure it will turn a lot of heads, raise a lot of smiles, and help continue his fundraising legacy.” For Douglas Stephen it was an emotional day. He added: "Our Doddie was born into a farming family, was part of the farming community and loved tractors. He was also always accustomed to wearing big, bright, garish tartan suits, so this is right up his street. What JCB has done is beyond all expectations and they have really pulled out all the stops. Doddie was a great friend who is sorely missed and this will help us to keep his memory and MND legacy alive.”   My Name’5 Doddie Foundation Director of Fundraising and Communications, Paul Thompson added: “We are incredibly excited about this collaboration with JCB and expect it to raise a great deal of awareness of both motor neuron disease and My Name’5 Doddie Foundation."  "The Fastrac looks brilliant, and we can’t wait to see the look on people’s faces when nine tonnes of tartan tractor arrive at one of our events."   “When the tractor was unveiled, it was a real lump in the throat moment. Doddie was a farmer and loved his tractors, so we know that this collaboration would have meant a lot to him.” JCB Territory Manager Sam Taylor said: "For JCB it is an honour to support the incredible work of the ‘My Names’5 Doddie Foundation’. Doddie Weir was an icon, not only in the way that he played his rugby, but also in the way he handled his MND diagnosis, setting an example of bravery, and inspiring others to take up the fight." “The JCB Doddie iCON Edition Fastrac is a great example of teamwork - bringing together an amazing charity, a valued JCB customer, our brilliant dealer network, designers, and production team. We hope it will raise greater awareness of the condition and fund more groundbreaking research to find a cure for MND.”

Contractor Henry Brothers Construction has held a topping out ceremony to mark a key stage in the project to deliver new facilities at Beacon Barracks in Staffordshire for 280 (NATO) Signal Squadron. The Squadron, which is the only British Army unit permanently assigned to NATO, will be moving from Dorset to its new home at Beacon Barracks near Stafford under the Defence Estate Optimisation (DEO) Army Programme. Henry Brothers is building a new £22.5m two-storey facility for the Squadron within a secure compound at Beacon Barracks. It includes offices, conference rooms, a reception area, workshops, garaging, storage rooms, welfare facilities and mechanical and electrical plant rooms, and will feature solar panels on the roof. The company is also delivering a single-storey satellite communications building as part of the development for the Squadron, which, as a Deployable Communication Module, has a role to install and control strategic communication and information systems supporting a deployed NATO headquarters. Personnel at the topping out ceremony for the new facilities included representatives from NATO, 280 (NATO) Signal Squadron, the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), Beacon Barracks, contractor Henry Brothers Construction, project manager Mott MacDonald and multi-disciplinary design consultants Pick Everard. Ian Taylor, MD of Henry Brothers Construction, said: “We are very pleased to see this significant milestone being reached on the new facility that Henry Brothers Construction is delivering at Beacon Barracks for 280 (NATO) Signal Squadron. The squadron plays an important role in NATO, and we are proud to support our armed forces." “Henry Brothers has worked in partnership with the Ministry of Defence and the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) to deliver many improvements and new developments over the years. It’s great to see one of our current projects proceeding well and on track for completion next year, providing 280 (NATO) Signal Squadron with a new base to relocate to from Dorset.” The project, which is scheduled to be Defence Related Environmental Assessment Method (DREAM) Excellent, is being delivered by Henry Brothers for the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) via the Crown Commercial Service Framework. Work is due to be completed in early 2025. Other members of the team working alongside Henry Brothers on the project include Pick Everard and Mott MacDonald. Henry Brothers Construction is part of The Henry Group, which comprises a number of manufacturing and construction sector companies, ranging from external construction through to interiors fit out. In partnership with its valued clients, it has a proven track record in education, defence, commercial, industrial, transport and healthcare sectors.

One of Scotland’s leading hospitality groups Buzzworks has relaunched its pioneering initiative to provide a boost to local charities in the areas which it operates.   The unique quarterly pro-social bonus scheme has once again rolled out across all 19 of Buzzworks’ venues, with the top four performing sites taking a share of £1,000 to gift to any registered charity of its choice.   First launched in April 2017, the returning Buzzworks pro-social bonus has already helped over 12 charities across Scotland, ranging from The Royal Hospital for Sick Children to the Ayrshire Hospice.   The latest winners were announced this week, as Scotts Troon, Scotts Largs, The Treehouse in Ayr and Thirty Knots in South Queensferry beat off stiff competition to take the cash prizes for their chosen charities.   Scotts Troon took top prize and chose to gift its winning sum to Cash for Kids.   Second place Scotts Largs presented Crosshouse Children’s Fund with their donation and The Treehouse in Ayr gifted their prize to Kyle Academy Children’s Appeal.   The final beneficiary was Queensferry Parish Church Food Bank, chosen by the team at Thirty Knots, South Queensferry.   To be in with a chance of winning the pro-social bonus, each Buzzworks venue is scored at the end of every month based on various factors including sales, customer service and mystery shoppers.   Nicola Watt, Buzzworks Head of People, said: “We are proud to bring back the pro-social bonus and relaunch this scheme at Buzzworks, which we believe was the first of its kind within the hospitality industry back in 2017." “The pro-social bonus is a way of us giving back and rewarding the hard work and dedication of our employees, whilst supporting the communities in which we operate."   “By offering the choice of charity to the individual winning venues, this ensures our people and the communities we work in come first."   “All of the team pulled together to try and win for their selected charities and judging was difficult; however, there were four clear winners and congratulations is in order for each of the successful venues.” Buzzworks has established itself as an industry leader in Scotland’s hospitality sector through its culinary excellence and aspirational dining and entertainment experiences at its stylish brands: Scotts, House, Lido, Vic’s & The Vine, The Duke, Thirty Knots, The Bridge Inn, The Fox and Herringbone.