The harvest season is a time of great significance in communities around the world. It represents the culmination of months of hard work, dedication, and cooperation among farmers and community members. Beyond the mere act of gathering crops, the harvest season has a profound impact on communities that extends far beyond the fields. Economic Prosperity One of the most immediate impacts of the harvest season is the injection of economic prosperity into communities. The successful harvest provides farmers with the fruits of their labour, which they can sell or use for personal consumption. This influx of fresh produce often leads to lower prices in local markets, benefiting consumers. Additionally, surplus crops can be exported, contributing to a region's overall economic well-being. Employment Opportunities The harvest season creates a surge in demand for labour, from picking fruits and vegetables to processing and packaging the produce. This demand for seasonal workers provides employment opportunities for community members, both young and old. It helps alleviate unemployment and stimulates economic activity within the community, as many families depend on these jobs to make ends meet. Strengthening Social Bonds Harvest time often brings the community together in a shared purpose. Neighbours, friends, and even strangers come together to help with the harvest, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie. This collective effort not only strengthens social bonds but also reinforces the interdependence of community members, highlighting the importance of cooperation. Preservation of Cultural Traditions In many cultures, the harvest season is deeply intertwined with traditions and rituals that have been passed down through generations. These traditions connect people to their heritage and provide a sense of continuity and identity. Celebrations, festivals, and ceremonies associated with the harvest season serve as cultural touchstones that help maintain a community's unique identity. Food Security A successful harvest ensures food security within a community. The availability of fresh, locally grown produce means that residents have access to nutritious food sources. This is particularly crucial in areas where food scarcity is a concern, as the harvest season can help alleviate hunger and improve overall health. Emotional Well-Being The act of harvesting can be emotionally rewarding for individuals. Seeing the tangible results of their hard work can boost self-esteem and provide a sense of accomplishment. Additionally, the shared satisfaction of a bountiful harvest can enhance the overall emotional well-being of a community. Environmental Impact The harvest season also has ecological implications. Sustainable farming practices, such as crop rotation and soil conservation, can be highlighted during this time. Communities that prioritise responsible agriculture contribute to the long-term health of the environment and promote ecological awareness. The harvest season is much more than the gathering of crops; it is a multifaceted event with far-reaching impacts on communities. From economic prosperity and employment opportunities to strengthened social bonds and cultural traditions, the harvest season plays a pivotal role in shaping the fabric of society. As we celebrate the abundance of the harvest, it's essential to recognise and appreciate its profound and lasting effects on our communities too.

A husband-and-wife team from Dorset beat off competition from more than 30 countries to win a £20,000 prize – for designing a theme park ride. Richard and Amy Hale were flown to Florida to collect the award from Storyland Studios, a global experience design and strategy firm. The couple only decided to get into the theme park business after Richard, 55, nearly died from bowel cancer last year and was cared for by Amy, a nurse. Spotting the competition they decided to ‘go big’ and Amy gave up her career to help Richard design Portal Riders. The experience combines a thrilling dark water ride with a seamless immersive and interactive digital experience, taking riders to unique fantasy and adventure landscapes. It utilises the latest VR tech, AI and huge LED screens to create other worlds which the riders travel through on a boat. The competition organisers praised the ride for its ‘bold vision and imaginative storytelling’ and added that it ‘sets a new standard for the future of location-based entertainment experiences’. Richard and Amy live in Crossways near Weymouth and are hoping that the ride will be built in the UK. Richard said: “Although I’m in my mid-fifties there is a part of me that has never grown up. I describe myself as unemployable due to my dyslexia, but I am incredibly creative. After leaving school my first job was to help build Christmas grottos." “Since then I have done a variety of things including creating war-gaming terrain for Warhammer games, designing Sea Life Centres, model-making and painting murals." “I also design the exhibits for the multi award-winning Tank Museum near to me through my company Inspiring Heritage, which is just me and my wife." “Last year I almost died from bowel cancer and after recovering Amy and I decided to try something a bit bigger, so we entered the Storyland competition. We were up against 81 other entrants from more than 30 countries and were absolutely stunned when we won." “I have pitched for much smaller things and haven’t had much luck – but in the US they really understood our vision. The judging panel was made up of industry heavyweights from around the world – including people from Disneyland. We were flown out to Orlando to receive the award and a cheque for $25,000 and got to meet some hugely influential people – none of whom had heard of Dorset." “We are now to collaborate with Storyland Studios to develop the concept into a product for the location-based entertainment sector. Where the ride might end up being installed we have no idea but are hoping it’s in the UK - it is terrifically exciting.” The theme park industry in the UK is worth well over £1bn and a new attraction is set to open after Universal Studios bought a 476-acre site near Bedford. The US giant is investing huge sums in the park that could be open by 2030.

The Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire, Mike Kapur OBE CStJ, has taken part in a tree planting event which united community leaders, students and environmental advocates. The planting, which was led by the National Forest Company at Minorca Woods in Measham, saw the planting of two saplings which were blessed at a Service of Remembrance at Westminster Abbey in October 2022. The event was also attended by National Forest chief executive John Everitt OBE, Leicestershire County Council vice chairman Councillor Richard Shepherd, Lord Mayor of Leicester Councillor Bhupen Dave, and students from Rushey Mead Academy in Leicester. The trees symbolise unity, diversity and hope for a greener future, while also honouring those who served and lost their lives during the Covid-19 pandemic, while the planting highlighted the vital role of collaboration between local government, schools and the wider community in driving positive change. Mr Kapur said: “This inspiring event highlights nature's ability to heal and uplift, echoing the National Forest's mission to restore and reconnect people with the environment." “The participation of Rushey Mead Academy pupils brought youthful energy and hope, underscoring the vital role of future generations in safeguarding and nurturing our natural world.” Photo credit – National Forest

The Pantry is an award-winning contract catering business that operates within a number of industry sectors including over 100 schools and sixth forms, a handful of industrial sites and also provide event catering for companies such as Amazon across the UK to over 75 Amazon Distribution Centres across the UK, as well as buffet and event catering to a number of clients local to where the business is located in Uxbridge, West London. Paul Andrews spoke to Luke Consiglio, the Founder and Managing Director, to find out more. When it comes to the business and how it all started, Luke is proud of what they have already achieved since the business began in 2006, growing to over £12 million in turnover and employing around 500 people which includes 17 family members and now serves over 20,000 meals to school children each and every day. As Luke explains, “Like most family businesses, ours began in a humble home – a Sandwich Shop on Hayes High Street in 2006, to be precise.” With the support, guidance, and very often concerned expressions of his parents, 23-year-old Luke Consiglio set about creating a business that would have a family ethos at its heart, and family members at the forefront. “My Mum and Dad provided an initial loan of £10,000 to help get things started and right from the start Mum helped by making sure the books balance whilst I took on just about every other responsibility in the shop, from creating the menus, preparing the sandwiches, pushing promotions, and even delivering platters myself,” adds Luke. Luke is an entrepreneur at heart, loves his family, and the team that works for him and his desire to succeed and be the best he can be is apparent for all to see. Born in a flat on the 17th floor of a tower block, Luke was brought up by hard-working parents, a father who is a cobbler and runs his own shop and his Mum was on hand to help with the family. Luke is one of three brothers and they were brought up with traditional family values that still resonate with Luke today, as he drives the business forward balancing life with his own wife and three young daughters. “Work is really important to me and with a family to provide for and a growing number of staff, it is important that we continue to evolve, but retain the family values at the heart of our culture too,” he continues. “Our shop offered a family-owned alternative to the High Street giants and word soon spread about the sheer quality and range of freshly-prepared food on offer – with our first year’s turnover at coming in at £36,000.” “With queues stretching down the High Street, and my dreams stretching far beyond it, The Pantry soon started branching out and broadening its horizons. Within 2 years, we were providing and serving buffet and event catering for both local and national businesses, including DHL, Amazon, Hertz, and many more – all of whom we still count as loyal customers,” adds Luke. Their first ‘contracted’ job beyond the confines of the High Street Shop came in 2006, within Hillingdon’s Civic Centre, where they were tasked with delivering a coffee shop and hot food offer for the c.1,000 people on site. This served as a significant jumping-off point for the Company, as it demonstrated that their catering offer could be scalable, adaptable, and most importantly – high quality wherever it was delivered. This provided the catalyst for the next stage in their growth. As Luke explains, “From here, The Pantry were asked to look into providing school lunches which were historically very poor within the Borough – and in the same year, reached an agreement with Botwell House Catholic School to provide their students with packed lunches – all made within our sandwich shop. From here, our business quickly garnered a reputation for reliability, trustworthiness and delicious food within the Borough, and we were quickly awarded other school contracts where we could cook on-site.” The business continued a growth trajectory that involved more staff and more customers, with a key aspect of their growth centred on customer experience and quality of food, education and nutrition, factors that remain at the core of the The Pantry today. As Luke continues, “Having outgrown the High Street, The Pantry soon required a more suitable home, and moved into brand-new offices in Uxbridge, barely a stone’s throw away from our first home in Hayes.” Luke was determined to maintain the Family influence on the business as it grew, and he soon recruited his cousins – one who had already carved out a successful career within the restaurant and events industry who both had carved out successful careers of their own within the restaurant and events industries – to act as his right-hand men as the business blossomed into the contract catering arena. With his Uncle Dave serving as the wheels of the business with his delivery van, The Pantry soon became a feature in Schools across West London, with family members driving excellence across every corner of the business. Luke carefully nurtured the business as The Pantry’s reputation sky-rocketed, being careful not to over-reach as he instead built-up industry-leading practices and systems across a clientele of 40 Schools over the next decade turnover grew to over £2 million. The Pantry were also the first contractor within Hillingdon to be awarded the Soil Associations Food For Life Gold award, with notes from the awarding body claiming that if they could have awarded a Platinum, they would have! Luke has a clear vision and purpose for the business that offers a genuine family-feel amongst a sea of far more corporate competitors. “We believe in our offering and for me it is important to live and breathe what we do. All of our team are on board and understand what makes us different. Our values are lived from the top down and we go above and beyond to exceed the expectations of our clients. We have to be the best and take real pride in delivering an excellent service and living the values. Our reputation is second to none and we care. I make it a personal objective to ensure that I lead from the front and attend each and every pitch to show that I care, as much as the team do, and the client knows that it is important to us at each and every level of the business,” explains Luke. The Pantry’s ‘People over Profit’ mantra allowed them to continually re-invest in the people and the services they offered, rather than skimming off profits for outside investors, something that stood them in better stead than most when the pandemic hit. As Luke adds, “When most other companies were making redundancies and hollowing out their business, our family ethos came to the fore. Thanks to prudent investments and a diverse portfolio of services, we were able to keep every member of staff on our books, and even strengthen our Head Office team as we recruited high-quality industry professionals who shared The Pantry’s vision for a personable, accountable and family-driven operation.” Once the effects of the Pandemic eased, The Pantry kicked into overdrive. With a staff that was highly-motivated and committed to The Pantry cause, they were able to acquire over 60 new contracts over the course of the next 18 months, driving turnover over £12 million for the first time in their history, and expand a roster from being mainly London-based, to having outposts from Sussex to Staffordshire, and Surrey to Suffolk! To this day, Luke is still the owner and Managing Director of the Company, and his brothers and cousins are still in key Senior Management positions – alongside several 6 other family members holding various roles across the Company including his brother, showcasing how far this business has grown from the early days when Luke opened that first sandwich shop with family members in prominent roles. Luke’s cousin, Anthony Swaby, is the Head of Operations. Anthony has over two decades’ experience curating the food and operational standards across some of the most prestigious hospitality outlets in London, including AA-rated restaurants at The Barbican and The National Portrait Gallery, and at The Pantry he ensures these self-same standards are adapted and implemented across every single kitchen within our business. Luke’s other cousin, another Anthony, (Anthony Wright, to be precise), is the Commercial Operations Manager. Acting as the focal point for all of our endeavours in this sector, he co-ordinates the catering and events for commercial clients, including Amazon offer at over 75 distribution centres for Amazon across the UK, as well as their wider Hospitality provision. Pete Boden, Luke’s father-in-law, serves as Head of IT, joining The Pantry after a long and successful career with Sky as an Editor. Pete’s responsible for ensuring every aspect of the Head Office workflow is managed smoothly and safely, as well as embedding all the hardware and software required at our Schools to support the digital aspects of our service. This is increasingly important as ongoing investment in systems has lead to bespoke programmes and innovative features such as enabling parents of each and every child to order their own meals from the menu, managing allergies and intolerances by ensuring children cannot be provided meals that are not suitable for their dietary requirements, and enabling parents to see a record of what their children have eaten. Luke’s Mum, Tracey, still maintains her financial role within the Company that began all the way back in 2006! “We have family members scattered throughout all areas of the business,” continues Luke, “which is one of the reasons our values are aligned and everyone is working towards the same goals. We all love what we do and have worked hard to create a culture of ownership and engaged staff too.” “Family is my happy place and something that is in my DNA. We are lucky that we all get along well and share the same vision and I am also very fortunate to have a wife that allows me to do what I need to do and supports me in doing it. We have a bond that works. I love her to bits and it is a team effort and the fact that we are winning awards is not just about me. We are all in this together and we share the successes,” explains Luke. “People are what makes family businesses special and we have an exceptional team who care, continue to grow with us and they all give the same attention to detail as I do,” adds Luke. “I appreciate each and every one of the team for the important role they play in generating our success and I think it is important to look after them the way that I would want to be looked after, the same approach that we take to the way that we work with our clients. It clearly works as we have a full schedule of schools and clients on board and are always being approached and asked to tender for more contracts and are overwhelmed with the response whenever we open up a new position to potential employees too. Something is working well and long may it continue,” adds Luke. “We have to allow our teams to play to their ‘superpowers’ whether it is numbers, marketing or customer relations and then we get the best out of them and they are doing what they love, which is a win for everyone,” he continues. “Our team are our culture and it is important that we support them in their roles with us.” Luke and the team continue to invest in the business, recognising the way that they want to grow and the values that they want to be associated with. “We have three nutritionists who help spread the word, visit schools teaching kids about the value of a health diet and encouraging them to eat well. We promote in season produce through the menus which is good for their diets but also good for the planet and supportive of local farmers and produce too. It is simple – we want to do the right thing and are making nutrition central to what we do too.” It is clear that Luke works hard, loves what he does and is an entrepreneur. More importantly though he is an inspiration to others. When you talk to the other members of the senior management as well as the junior members of the team, it is readily apparent that they love what they do. There is a palpable ‘buzz in the air’ and smiling faces all round. “We love what we do and have worked hard to create a good place to be,” continues Luke. “We don’t want to be a faceless corporate but a business with family values embedded in what we do and we want to exceed expectations but have fun too. It is important that we work together and as the MD I know it is important that as we go that I need to ensure our culture remains. It is not easy but our senior team share our passion and values and regular check-ins and ‘up audits’ help make sure we are not losing touch and that the ethos remains.” “We have come a long way and are not ashamed of who we are, what we do and how we do it. It is about balance, culture, hard work and the fact that we really do care – about our staff, our clients and our families, and by that I mean direct and those families of the people who work for us for whom we have a longer term responsibility too. Communication is at the heart of this and it is personal. This is a business that I created and is growing quickly so communication is the only way to ensure the right messages, values and information are shared and that starts with me,” adds Luke. This is a business that at the heart provides over 20,000 meals to children each and every day. “We are trusted to feed the things that are the most precious things to the parents, their children and that send them to school and we are really good at doing it,” concludes Luke. The Pantry is an inspirational family business. Whilst it may be in the first generation, there are generations involved and they have already created a model that has successfully embraced numerous family members into roles within the business. The team includes family and non-family working collectively with a shared vision and purpose and the growth since that first shop opened in Hayes all those years ago is nothing short of phenomenal with Luke leading from the front, working incredibly hard, long hours to get it to where it is today. Plans for the future are exciting with a move to new premises, inclusion of a small working farm and smallholding to be able to invite clients and their customers (school children of all ages) to visit and appreciate more of the field to fork food journey and nutritional planning that goes into the diverse menus and a whole lot more besides. The journey to date has been an exciting one but the future looks bright and full of promise. In a short period of time they have become one of the fastest growing contract caterers in the UK which is due to sticking to the family ethos and values and continually reinvesting in the next phase of the their growth. We look forward to seeing the next chapter in their growth.

Strategic property and construction advisors, Fox Lloyd Jones (FLJ) has appointed Mark Gayton as a director, to head up its Building Surveying division, expand its service offering and drive client growth. Mark has over 20 years’ experience in the property sector and has previously held senior roles at companies such as Hollis and Projex Building Solutions in Leeds as well as CNP in London. FLJ provides a full breadth of building surveying services, ranging from development due diligence through to building acquisition surveys and reports, and Mark will now be tasked with driving growth opportunities in this area and play a key strategic role in the firm’s senior leadership team. Commenting on his new appointment, Mark Gayton, said: “Joining FLJ is an exciting opportunity for me to become part of a leading commercial property business in Leeds that has a strong reputation for client service and delivering a professional and results-driven approach." "I’m looking forward to further expanding our building surveying offering by developing client relationships and providing strategic guidance which complements our existing construction, development and agency teams within the business.” Simon Lloyd, co-founder and director at Fox Lloyd Jones, said: “Being in a position to enhance our building surveying division and senior leadership team, through the appointment of such an experienced professional as Mark, is hugely satisfying and further sustains our long-term growth." "He brings to the business a wealth of expertise and knowledge that can only increase the level of insight and guidance we’re able to offer our client base.”

As the festive season approaches, homes and storefronts come alive with the vibrant colours of red and green, and one iconic plant takes centre stage in the world of Christmas decorations—the poinsettia. With its striking red bracts and rich green foliage, the poinsettia has become synonymous with the holiday spirit. But why are poinsettias an integral part of the festive season for so many of us? Let's take a look into the fascinating history and symbolism of the poinsettia, exploring how it became such an essential and integral part of Christmas traditions worldwide. The poinsettia, scientifically known as Euphorbia pulcherrima, is native to Mexico and Central America, where it was cultivated by the Aztecs centuries before the arrival of Spanish conquistadors. However, its association with Christmas as we know it today can be traced back to the 19th century. The plant's association with Christmas began with Joel Poinsett, the first United States Ambassador to Mexico. He discovered the plant during his tenure in the early 1800s and brought it back to South Carolina. Poinsett was not only an avid botanist but also a fervent advocate for introducing new plants to the United States. He shared cuttings of the plant with botanical gardens and enthusiasts, which led to its adoption in the United States. The poinsettia's vibrant red colour is reminiscent of the season's warmth and the spirit of giving. Its green leaves symbolize renewal and the promise of spring, making it an apt choice for the Christmas season, which falls in the heart of winter. In Mexican folklore, the poinsettia is associated with the Nativity story. Legend has it that a young girl named Pepita, too poor to offer a gift to the baby Jesus, gathered some weeds on her way to the church. As she placed them at the nativity scene, they miraculously transformed into vibrant red poinsettias. This story further cemented the poinsettia's connection to Christmas. Poinsettias have become a staple in holiday decorations, gracing homes, churches, and public spaces. Their versatility makes them suitable for various arrangements, from potted plants to centrepieces and wreaths. The striking red and green combination of the poinsettia complements other holiday decorations, adding an elegant touch to the festivities. Caring for Your Poinsettia To enjoy the beauty of poinsettias throughout the holiday season, it's essential to provide proper care. Here are some tips: Light : Place your poinsettia in a well-lit area with indirect sunlight. Temperature : Keep the plant away from drafts and extreme temperature fluctuations. Watering : Water your poinsettia when the soil feels dry to the touch, but avoid letting it sit in standing water. Maintenance : Remove any yellowing or dead leaves to keep the plant looking its best. The poinsettia's journey from a native Mexican plant to a symbol of Christmas worldwide is a testament to the power of cultural exchange and the enduring appeal of its vibrant red bracts and lush green leaves. Whether adorning your home or gifting to loved ones, the poinsettia continues to bring joy and warmth to the holiday season, embodying the spirit of Christmas in its beauty and symbolism. So, this year, as you deck the halls and gather with loved ones, remember the rich history and significance of this iconic holiday plant.

Christmas is fast approaching and homes across the world are being transformed into festive wonderlands, adorned with twinkling lights, ornaments, and, of course, the iconic Christmas tree. Yet, amidst the dazzling decorations, there is one humble yet significant symbol of the season that often takes centre stage – the Christmas wreath. Christmas wreaths have a rich history dating back centuries, and their significance has evolved over time. Originally, they were made of evergreen branches, symbolising the circle of life and the endurance of nature even in the harshest winter. They served as a reminder that life would return to the barren landscape. Today, they continue to embody the spirit of hope and renewal. Beyond their historical roots, Christmas wreaths offer a tangible representation of hospitality and a warm welcome. Placed on the front door, they greet guests with an air of festive cheer. The vibrant colours and fragrant greens beckon visitors to step inside, where holiday merriment awaits. The wreath is like an open-armed embrace, an invitation to celebrate together. Apart from the symbolism, Christmas wreaths are cherished for their sheer aesthetic beauty. Crafted from a variety of materials such as pine, holly, berries, and ornaments, they come in a range of styles, from traditional to contemporary. This diversity allows individuals to express their unique tastes and personalities. Whether you prefer a classic red and green wreath or a modern, minimalist design, there is a wreath to suit every home. The artistry involved in creating these wreaths is also a testament to the talent of artisans and designers who devote their time and creativity to craft stunning pieces of holiday décor. For many, selecting or making a Christmas wreath is a cherished tradition, a labour of love that adds a personal touch to the holiday season. In addition to being a symbol of individual homes, Christmas wreaths foster a sense of community. They can be seen adorning storefronts, schools, churches, and public spaces. In small towns, hanging wreaths along the main street is a collective effort that brings residents together to spread holiday joy. The sight of these wreaths unites communities and strengthens the sense of togetherness during the festive season. Christmas wreaths also serve as a means of charitable support. Many organisations, such as churches, schools, and charities, sell wreaths as part of fundraising efforts. By purchasing a wreath, individuals can contribute to noble causes while adding a touch of holiday splendour to their homes. The Christmas wreath, a simple yet profound tradition, reminds us of the values that underpin the holiday season – hope, hospitality, and the celebration of life. It connects us with our past, enhances the beauty of our homes, and unites our communities. Whether you hang one on your front door, gift it to a friend, or participate in a wreath-making workshop, this iconic decoration has enduring significance, making it a cherished part of the holiday festivities for generations past, present, and future.

A scale-up business developing next-generation battery technologies has signed nearly 23,000 sq ft of laboratory space in Science Vale UK – the cluster of innovation companies in Oxfordshire. Agratas, a subsidiary of Tata Group, India’s largest business conglomerate, has leased lab space at Milton Park, the science, technology and business park cluster south of Oxford. Property consultancy Vail Williams, who’s offices are based in Oxford, leased the premises within five months of being instructed to market the space. Guy Parkes, Vail Williams’ Agency Partner for Oxford and Thames Valley, said: “This is one of the largest deals by square footage in the Oxford market this year. It underscores the importance for innovative businesses to be clustered around other research and development companies at Milton Park, which has become a focus for start-ups and scale-ups in the UK’s life sciences sector." A spokesperson for Agratas said: “Our new facility at Milton Park, Oxford, is the foundation of our global R&D ecosystem, enabling us to accelerate innovation in battery technologies." “This site demonstrates our commitment to delivering sustainable, high-performance solutions for the future. It also underlines the vital role of R&D in shaping Agratas’ future as a global leader in advanced battery solutions.” Milton Park is home to more than 250 companies, from start-ups to large corporates, employing 9,000-plus people. Guy added: “ Whilst we have been embedded in the South East region for decades we only opened our office in Oxford at the beginning of the year, and it was for this very purpose of working more closely with scale-up businesses and Life Science companies across the ‘Science Vale’ – and helping promote a world-class cluster for research & development.” Tom Booker commercial manager at MEPC Milton Park, said: “We are pleased to welcome Agratas to our growing roster of cutting-edge businesses who form part of the UK’s largest science, business and technology community." “Milton Park is firmly established as a leading hub for innovation which actively supports occupiers seeking to scale up as their business demands grow." “Agratas joins a growing cluster of innovative green energy occupiers who are supporting the Park in its 2040 Vision to become an innovation district where 20,000 people can collaborate and companies can grow sustainably.” Photo Above: MOVING IN: Agratas, a subsidiary of Tata Group, India’s largest business conglomerate, has leased nearly 23,000 sq ft of laboratory space at Milton Park, south of Oxford, the UK’s largest single ownership innovation community. Property consultancy Vail Williams leased the premises within five months of being instructed by the intermediate landlord to market the space.

Children from disadvantaged households in North Glasgow will wake up to a Christmas gift this year, thanks to the efforts of Allied Vehicles and its staff. Presents numbering almost 600 were delivered to the Possilpark Mansion Street North Glasgow Social Work office, ensuring festive cheer reaches families in need. This year, Allied staff contributed over 150 gifts, with donations coming from every part of the business. To meet the pledge of nearly 600 presents, the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust provided the remaining 441 gifts, ensuring no child in the area would be left out. In addition to their generosity, Allied staff volunteered their time to help sort, pack, and transport the gifts. Their hands-on involvement added a personal touch to this year’s donation, highlighting the company’s commitment to supporting the local community where its founder, Gerry Facenna, grew up and started Allied Vehicles. Steven Frize, Yard and Valet Coordinator at Allied was one of many staff who pitched in on the day, and said: "The feeling of packing the gifts, helping load the van and then dropping those gifts off at the social work was amazing. I feel like I've done something really positive today for the community". Gerry Facenna, founder and owner of Allied Vehicles Group, said: “The Directors and I are immensely proud of the generosity and community spirit shown by staff at Allied. Christmas is a time for giving, and it’s heartening to see so many of our people come together to make a difference for children in this community." This is the seventh year Allied has partnered with Glasgow Spirit of Christmas, pledging gifts to children who might otherwise receive nothing. Karen Russell, Team Leader at the Possilpark Mansion Street North Glasgow Social Work thanked Allied staff, saying: “We are so grateful for the amazing generosity of Allied Vehicles every year. Our families are so grateful for all the gifts and the difference it makes at what can be a difficult time of year. We are so appreciative of the kindness and thoughtfulness of all the staff. Thank you, thank you, thank you!” Following the donation of gifts to Spirit of Christmas, Allied also partnered with local housing group ng Homes and the Possilpark Business Improvement District to provide the lights and Christmas tree in the area’s Saracen Street.

Business confidence among Britain’s manufacturers has dipped at the sharpest rate since the pandemic due to rocketing costs according to a major survey published today by Make UK and business advisory firm BDO.– Make UK/BDO survey Key Findings: Output returns to levels of a year ago Domestic market remains weak compared to exports Recruitment and investment activity stable Make Work Pay reforms to result in big cost increases Manufacturing forecast to contract in 2024, 0.7% growth in 2025 The Make UK/BDO Manufacturing Outlook Q4 survey shows that while output and orders remain positive, with recruitment and investment intentions stable, the mood among companies has darkened markedly since the last survey when almost six in ten companies (58%) saw a brighter economic outlook under a new Government. Furthermore, the sharp fall in business confidence among manufacturers contrasts with the Q3 survey when, bar the immediate post covid recovery, it reached its highest level in a decade. According to the latest survey, almost three quarters (70%) of manufacturers have seen their costs increase by up to a fifth in the last year, while almost one in ten (8%) had seen their costs increase by up to a half. In particular, the survey shows almost nine in ten companies (86%) will see their business costs increase specifically as a result of the new employment reforms, with almost half of companies (44%) saying the increase will be ‘significant’. With the Budget set to add substantial extra business costs, in particular the changes to National Insurance Contributions, Make UK has cut its growth forecasts with manufacturing contracting by -0.2% this year and growing by just 0.7% in 2025. In response, Make UK is urging the Government to look at measures which might help alleviate the impact of rising costs, in particular reforms to business rates and current incentives to decarbonise. Commenting, Fhaheen Khan, Senior Economist at Make UK, said: “Having faced a cost creep for most of the year, manufacturers are now facing a cost crisis which has brought a sharp dip in their confidence. While overall conditions had begun to gradually improve during the year, the Budget has brought this to a shuddering halt, with the substantial increase in National Insurance Contributions potentially the straw that might break the camel’s back for some. There is now an urgent need for Government to look at other measures which might mitigate the impact of the rocketing costs that businesses are now facing.” Richard Austin, Head of Manufacturing at BDO, added: “While manufacturers have welcomed the Government’s Industrial Strategy green paper, optimism across the sector is declining, driven by increased input costs, the implications of the latest budget on employment costs and lacklustre domestic demand." "An overlay of a turbulent geo-political landscape and talk of potential tariffs adds to future uncertainty in the short to medium term. Increasing investment in improving productivity is vital now more than ever to maintain stability and offer opportunities for growth in the sector.” According to the survey, the balance on output rose to +20% from -2% in the last quarter, with total orders following a similar pattern, up to +16% from +7% in Q3. Export orders (+10%) exceeded UK orders (0%) but, the pattern since the pandemic when UK orders have consistently exceeded export orders is forecast to resume in the next quarter at +8% and +7% respectively. Having gone negative for the first time in four quarters in Q3, recruitment intentions turned positive at +8%, with investment intentions remaining stable at +10%. Make UK is forecasting that manufacturing will contract by -0.2% in 2024, down from a forecast of +0.5% in the last quarter, before growing by 0.7% in 2025. GDP is forecast to grow by 0.7% in 2024 and 1.4% in 2025. The survey of 303 companies was carried out between 28 October and 27 November.

Williams Racing is pleased to announce a new multi-year partnership with Santander that will begin in 2025. One of the world’s leading banks with 171 million customers worldwide, Santander will join the team to complement its series sponsorship as Formula 1’s official retail banking partner which also starts next year. Santander has chosen Williams as a global platform to connect with customers, offering exclusive experiences with access to the paddock and driver events, and to increase its brand visibility especially in the US where there are three F1 races and the team will showcase Santander’s Openbank brand. Santander or Openbank branding will feature on the FW47, driver helmets and team clothing throughout 2025 when Williams’ challenge will be led by Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz – one of the most formidable driver line-ups on the grid. To celebrate the announcement of the partnership, Santander branding will feature on the FW46 for this week’s end-of-season test in Abu Dhabi, where Spaniard Carlos Sainz will take the wheel of a Williams for the first time. The announcement continues Williams’ commercial momentum and growth as the team strengthens in all areas in pursuit of future Championship success. Williams has recently announced extended and expanded partnerships with Duracell, Gulf Oil International and Kraken for 2025, and F1’s first autonomous vehicle partnership with robotaxi company Zoox. James Vowles, Team Principal, Williams Racing: “Williams Racing is proud to add Santander to our growing roster of iconic and innovative partners for 2025 and beyond. Joining forces with a global banking giant trusted by tens of millions of people around the world is another significant step in our transformation and we look forward to working with Santander to engage and excite fans in the years ahead.” Juan Manuel Cendoya, Global Head of Communications, Corporate Marketing and Research of Santander and Vice Chair of Santander Spain, said: “We are delighted to partner with Williams Racing with a tactical agreement that allows us to keep offering exclusive experiences to our customers and continue to support Carlos Sainz in his new stage. This is one of the most historic teams with the greatest legacy in F1, and complements our role as the official retail banking partner of the competition with a focus on our main markets.”

To mark national T Levels Week 2024, Wakefield College has opened the doors to its hospital simulation teaching ward. Helping to train the next-generation of healthcare professionals, the state-of-the-art suite enables T Level Health students to be immersed into real-life scenarios and simulations which they would experience when working in a healthcare setting. It models a two-bed hospital ward, where students can practice on and treat realistic mannequins using industry-standard equipment. With a full-sized mannequin at their disposal, students can test their clinical skills by taking blood samples, removing catheter tubes from the bladder, treating wounds, inserting feeding tubes and more. Carla Cantrell, Head of Curriculum for Leadership Care & Early Years at the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, said: “The simulation ward provides the students with a risk-free environment where they can apply what they are learning in the classroom and refine their skills, which will help them seamlessly transition into their industry placements and their chosen careers further down the line. In addition to providing innovative learning spaces for our students, we are committed to further enhancing their learning through additional enrichment activities, including external visits, trips and guest talks.” Most recently, T Level Education & Early Years students have enjoyed days out at Yorkshire Wildlife Park, Leeds City Museum, MathsCity and Leeds Christmas Market. Yorkshire Ambulance also recently visited the College to provide students with insight into what it’s like working in the healthcare field and could ask questions about the role of an ambulance driver. Taking to the outdoors, the learners also hosted their own teddy bear picnic which modelled activities that would be delivered to early years children, including games, making friendship bracelets and face painting. During T Levels Week, Wakefield College hosted a roundtable with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority to evaluate the education landscape in the region. As part of the session, leaders spoke to the College’s T Level students about their experience and what their expectations are of studying a T Level. West Yorkshire Combined Authority roundtable with T Level students T Levels are two-year qualifications which aim to give students a head-start towards their chosen career path. They have been designed alongside employers to ensure learners have the skills and knowledge that are in demand. Students spend 80% of their time in the classroom and 20% on a 45-day placement with an employer, providing them with the chance to build skills and knowledge highly sought after by employers, whilst gaining a qualification. In addition to T Level courses in Health and Education & Early Years, Wakefield College also offers T Levels in Business & Management, Construction and Digital.