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A 400 ft Anglesey landmark that has dominated the local skyline for more than 50 years is set to be razed to the ground.    It is part of a contract that is valued at £410,000 for Nottingham based Total Reclaims Demolition and will be one of the largest chimney demolitions performed by the firm. The team has been tasked with the continued clearing of the former Anglesey Aluminium plant in Holyhead, North Wales.    The 15-week contract was won by the firm following an open tender process and subsequent negotiation with East Midlands based company, Rock Civil Engineering. The specialist controlled explosion of the huge 400 ft (122 metre) tall concrete chimney in Holyhead follows a smaller chimney demolition performed by the firm in Derbyshire in 2020. Work began earlier this month on the demolition of around 200,000 sq. ft. of smelting and storage sheds. No exact date has yet been set for reducing the chimney at the former alumina processing plant to rubble.    Ewan Cross, Project Manager, and the grandson of the founder of Total Reclaims Demolition, the late Melvyn Cross Snr, said: “We currently have two 50-tonne high-reach Volvos deployed at the site, supplemented by two 30-tonne Komatsus, which are the newest machines to our fleet.” He added: “The majority of the project is our bread-and-butter type of work. However, the blow-down of the chimney is the really exciting part. It’s not every day that something like this comes along."   "In fact, the last chimney we blew was around three years ago and it was a quarter of the size of this, and that’s what makes it interesting for me. It’s the second explosive project I’ve been involved with since stepping up and following in my father and late grandfather's footsteps and I’m ready for it.”    The former Anglesey Aluminium site closed down over a decade ago, with production ceasing in 2013. In 2016, the site was taken over by the Orthios Group, however, its recycling venture collapsed in 2022 with the loss of 140 jobs.    The site, renamed Prosperity Parc, now has a new owner, Swedish shipping line company Stena Line, which purchased the land to expand its operation at the Freeport.    The expansion has been hailed as a new start. According to local reports, Anglesey Freeport redevelopment is forecast to deliver up to 13,000 jobs across North Wales.

A major college campus with development potential in Worthing, West Sussex has been put up for sale. Property consultancy Vail Williams is inviting freehold bids for the 5.9-acre Northbrook College Broadwater Campus site. The owner, Chichester College Group is selling the campus in order to consolidate its provision in Worthing and facilitate investment in its existing West Durrington and Worthing sites. The site, with buildings totalling approximately 118,489 sq ft, is in a prime central urban location just to the north of the town centre. The premises will continue to be occupied as a college until September 2025 with the vendors taking a short leaseback up to that date. In the future, Chichester College Group intends to deliver Northbrook College courses at its other college locations in the Worthing area, including Northbrook’s West Durrington campus and Worthing College. All existing provision will continue in the area as long as there is demand. Vail Williams Partner Steve Berrett said: “This is an excellent opportunity to acquire a rarely available educational facility in an affluent and growing Sussex town, located just 11 miles west of Brighton." “Worthing’s unique location, being nestled between the South Downs and the sea, creates an attractive redevelopment proposition." “The site will likely appeal to a wide range of purchasers and end users, including educational providers, care homes, property investors, and alternative commercial occupiers looking to take advantage of the existing building accommodation." “There are excellent redevelopment and repositioning opportunities here, subject to planning, with three positively received, architect-designed pre-application masterplan options for educational, care home and residential uses.” Steve added: “From a personal point of view I grew up locally, attended Worthing College and both my colleague Mikael Goldsmith and I started our professional careers in the town. We are looking forward to working with the college to assist them through this disposal and reinvestment strategy.” The vendors are seeking the freehold sale of whole site (consideration to sale in part) with a strong preference for unconditional offers. The bid deadline is 2pm on Thursday 7th March. On site is an established educational college campus with a combination of new build and fully refurbished legacy buildings, along with some unused buildings to the west of the site. To the rear of the site there is green space, sports court, engineering workshops and an around 130 car parking spaces. There has been an educational establishment on the site since 1912 with West Sussex College of Art and Design becoming Northbrook College Sussex in 1986 and, following mergers, forming part of Chichester College Group in 2022. The group is the largest provider of further education in West Sussex and Brighton & Hove, educating and training around 25,000 full and part time students every year across seven colleges. Chichester College Group Chief Operating Officer Jon Rollings said: “Like all businesses, we have had to make decisions that maximise our assets and rationalise our space." “The proceeds of the Broadwater Campus sale will be reinvested into our Worthing-based college sites, providing better facilities for young people, apprentices and adults to study and develop their skills.” Vail Williams’ full-service property advice includes commercial agency, investment and development advice, building consultancy, property valuation, planning, lease advisory, property asset management, business rates and occupier consultancy.

Fruit and vegetables are strongly recommended as part of a healthy and balanced diet and here are 10 reasons to think about adding them to your daily diet. Nutrient-Rich : They are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health. Fibre : They are a good source of dietary fibre, aiding digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness. Low in Calories : Most fruits and vegetables are low in calories, making them ideal for weight management. Disease Prevention : Regular consumption can reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and certain cancers. Hydration : Many fruits and veggies have high water content, helping to maintain hydration. Variety : There's a wide range of flavours, textures, and colours, making meals more enjoyable and diverse. Natural Sweetness : Fruits can satisfy sweet cravings in a healthier way than sugary snacks. Nutrient Synergy : They provide a combination of nutrients that work together for optimal health. Versatility : They can be incorporated into various dishes, from salads to smoothies, enhancing taste and nutrition. Sustainable : Growing fruits and vegetables can be more environmentally friendly compared to raising livestock. Including a variety of fruits and vegetables in your diet can contribute to a balanced and nutritious lifestyle so why not make a start by trying a new fruit or vegetable today?

Tulips, with their vibrant and diverse array of colours, have captivated the hearts of garden enthusiasts and flower lovers for centuries. These elegant blooms have a rich history, a wide range of varieties, and a significant cultural significance that has made them one of the most beloved flowers worldwide. In this piece, we'll delve into the enchanting world of tulips, exploring their origins, symbolism, varieties, and enduring popularity. A Blooming History Tulips, known scientifically as Tulipa, have a fascinating history that spans centuries and continents. Originally native to Central Asia, these beautiful flowers were introduced to Europe in the 16th century. They quickly became a symbol of wealth and status, leading to the famous "Tulip Mania" in the Dutch Golden Age, during which tulip bulbs were considered as valuable as gold. Today, tulips are associated with the Netherlands, which is one of the largest producers and exporters of tulip bulbs in the world. A Rainbow Of Colours One of the most striking features of tulips is their incredible diversity of colours. From the classic red, yellow, and white tulips to more exotic shades like purple, orange, and even bi-colored varieties, tulips offer an extensive palette for gardeners and florists. These colours hold various meanings, with red symbolising love and white representing purity and forgiveness. The choice of tulip colour can add depth and sentiment to floral arrangements. Symbolism And Meaning Tulips carry a wealth of symbolism across cultures. In Persia, where they are believed to have originated, red tulips symbolize true love. In the language of flowers, or "floriography," red tulips represent a declaration of love. Meanwhile, yellow tulips symbolize cheerful thoughts and sunshine, making them a popular choice to convey feelings of happiness and positivity. Overall, tulips are associated with expressions of love, gratitude, and beauty. Popular Varieties Tulips are classified into various groups based on their characteristics, including shape, size, and bloom time. Some popular tulip varieties include: Single Early Tulips : These are some of the first tulips to bloom in spring and come in a wide range of colours. Darwin Hybrid Tulips : Known for their large, vibrant blooms and strong, sturdy stems, these tulips are ideal for both gardens and cut flower arrangements. Parrot Tulips : These exotic-looking tulips feature fringed, feather-like petals and come in an assortment of vivid colours. Triumph Tulips : Known for their classic tulip shape and bold colours, Triumph tulips are excellent for garden borders. Fringed Tulips : These tulips have distinctive fringed edges on their petals, adding a unique and delicate touch to floral displays. Year-Round Popularity Tulips are celebrated not just for their beauty but also for their ability to bloom during different seasons. By planting a variety of tulip bulbs, you can enjoy their vibrant colours from early spring to late spring, ensuring a continuous display of floral elegance. Tulips are more than just a pretty flower; they are a symbol of love, beauty, and the changing of seasons. With their rich history, diverse colour range, and deep cultural significance, tulips have rightfully earned their place as one of the world's most cherished flowers. Whether you're planting them in your garden or presenting them in a bouquet, tulips continue to enchant and inspire with their timeless elegance.

Every thespian knows that ‘the show must go on’, but during 2024 Hebden Bridge Little Theatre is celebrating keeping it on for 100 years! Since being founded in 1924, the theatre has only ever suffered two brief periods of closure – the 2020/21 COVID lockdown and when building and relocating to its current 120-seater venue in Holme Street in 1992/3. Not even the Second World War could prevent the curtain being raised, with well over 70,000 seats being sold during the six-year conflict, despite fears of air raids and gas attacks. Programmes even warned that patrons were expected to bring their gas masks to the performance. And the same Blitz Spirit has been evident in overcoming the floods with which Hebden Bridge has unfortunately become synonymous. Although the Boxing Day Flood of 2015 covered the theatre two feet deep in foul water, the help of volunteers, the army and the community ensured that everything was up and running again within a few weeks, and no shows had to be cancelled. Hannah Stow, President of Hebden Bridge Little Theatre (photo attached), says: “We have since installed flood doors, and although there will doubtless be other challenges to face, the resilience we have always shown in the face of adversity should help us overcome them." “I am so proud to be the theatre’s president during the Centenary year, and hope the public helps us celebrate in style by attending some of the superb events we have lined up in honour of the anniversary.” Fittingly, as it was penned in 1924, the five-play Centenary schedule kicks off with Noel Coward’s Hay Fever, being staged between February 26 and March 2. Hannah Stow, who is directing the production herself, continues: “This play sees Coward at his hilarious best, and we have a highly talented and experienced cast who are already smashing it in rehearsals. I’m confident this will prove a cracking Centenary showpiece.” Tickets for Hay Fever and other Centenary productions cost £11-£9, and can be obtained here online. The other Centenary productions scheduled for 2024 are: April 8-13 --- The Long Road by Shelagh Stephenson June 17 -22 --- A Midsummer Night’s Dream by William Shakespeare October 7 -12 --- Beryl by Maxine Peake December 2-7 ---- One Man, Two Guvnors by Richard Bean.

Econ Engineering’s fully electric-powered gritter has secured a landmark contract with UK highways specialist Ringway signing up to take delivery of the revolutionary E-QCB (Electric Quick Change Body).   The first ever completely electric vehicle of its kind on the market utilises the very latest in sustainable technology without diminishing performance, helping customers cut their emissions footprint.   As the UK’s leading manufacturer of winter maintenance and highways vehicles, Yorkshire-based Econ Engineering supplies gritters, hot boxes and tippers to hundreds of local councils and contractors, spanning the length and breadth of the UK.   The E-QCB enables the vehicle’s bodywork to be switched between gritter, tipper or caged body modes, with easy transformation taking no longer than 15 minutes.   With more than 300 local authorities having declared a climate emergency, the Government has already issued guidance on how those councils, and other UK businesses, should be looking to switch their fleets to zero emissions vehicles ahead of 2035.   Ringway, responsible for looking after more than 50,000kms of the UKs highways network, has a long-term strategic fleet partnership with Econ and is the first contractor to sign up to a deal for the E-QCB.   Both sustainable and practical, the E-QCB 19-tonne Volvo FE Electric, comes with a range of demountable body options including gritter, tipper & caged body, which can be switched within just 15 minutes.   Designed with versatility in mind, the vehicle comes with alternative battery configurations to allow optimisation of range and payload, it can be fully charged in less than two hours (subject to infrastructure), runs near-silent with a range of up to 170 miles (depending on load and road conditions), and with no exhaust gases produced, can make deliveries in zero emission zones.   Vigorously tested during a recent demonstration tour around the UK, the E-QCB has already gained praise and endorsements while gritting rural routes in snowy Yorkshire, spreading sand for a Royal procession in central London and negotiating inner city streets in Scotland while collecting refuse.   Dave Olley, Operations Manager at Ringway said: “Ringway Hertfordshire is committed to delivering a sustainable service. Working with Econ Engineering we trialled the fully electric E-QCB multi-purpose vehicle and are now looking forward to adding it to our fleet and putting it to use on the UK’s road network.” Jonathan Lupton, Managing Director at Econ Engineering, said: “We have spent a long time developing the E-QCB, undertaking comprehensive redesigns and trials across the UK, to ensure that we can offer a fully electric solution for our customers that can be used 52 weeks a year." “We are delighted to extend what is already a strong relationship with Ringway by adding the E-QCB to its fleet. We are confident the vehicle will continue to impress and that its benefits will soon result in more deals of this kind.”   Christian Coolsaet, Managing Director of Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland, said: “Every part of the transport sector needs to have its sights set on achieving net zero, and gritting and snowploughing is no exception. The team at Econ has developed an exceptional new product with our FE Electric chassis at its heart; this is going to allow gritter fleets to reap the benefits of operating cleaner, quieter and more efficient trucks.”   Feedback from the demonstration tour included:   North Yorkshire Council: The E-QCB was tested to the limit on a cold, snowy day at Sutton Bank which has a hill gradient of 1 in 4, and includes plenty of tight bends. The vehicle undertook two 40-mile gritting runs and an NYC spokesperson said: “The vehicle impressed us especially coping with the hills and had excellent range for an electric vehicle.”   The City of Edinburgh Council: The E-QCB was put through extensive testing in both urban and hilly locations, with a council spokesperson remarking: “Simple effortless drive, easy vehicle to use. Excellent build quality – would love one in our fleet.”   Glasgow City Council: On a 90-mile gritting route in urban Glasgow, carrying an eight-ton non-diminishing payload, it returned with an impressive 13% battery life remaining, while a 50-mile gritting route saw it return to the depot with 47% battery usage. A council spokesperson said: “Vehicle exceeded expectations, excellent build quality, cannot fault the vehicle at all.”   City of Bradford District Council: The vehicle’s flexible attributes were tested on a couple of routes, utilising both the tipper and then the gritter body, with a council spokesman commenting: “Great drive, was pleasantly surprised. Quiet and comfortable.”   City of Westminster: The E-QCB was used to lay sand across London’s streets in readiness for the King’s carriage as he attended the State Opening of Parliament. It travelled 66 miles in an urban environment and finished with 51% battery charge.

Small business confidence lost ground in the final three months of 2023, reversing gains made earlier in the year, according to FSB’s latest quarterly Small Business Index (SBI). The headline confidence reading was -15.0 points in Q4, down from -8.0 points in Q3, and similar to Q2’s result of -14.2 points. FSB’s Small Business Index, in partnership with Google, also showed a large divergence in confidence levels across major sectors, with most remaining some way below zero. Hospitality remained the gloomiest sector by far, with the confidence reading for accommodation and food services businesses -73.0 points, down from -31.1. points in Q3. Retail firms also saw their confidence level fall, from -22.8 points in Q3 to -29.8 points in Q4. Manufacturing firms saw a large dip in confidence levels between the third and fourth quarters, going from -6.7 points to -26.2, while the construction sector stayed fairly steady at -8.0 (Q3: -7.7). The professional, scientific and technical sector swung from +6.9 points in Q3 to -4.7 in Q4, while the information and communication segment saw a reversal of Q3’s lightly negative -3.5 points to a healthy +24.4 points. Reported revenues were more or less flat on the previous quarter in Q4, with a third (33.8%) of small firms saying their revenues increased over the period (Q3: 33.5%), while 39.8% noted a drop in revenues (Q3: 39.4%). It is the seventh consecutive quarter to show a negative net balance of small firms reporting revenue growth, and underlines the need for the upcoming Spring Budget to build on the pro-grow measures in the Autumn Statement. Looking forward, almost exactly the same proportion of small firms expect their revenues to grow over the first quarter of this year (31.6%) as expect them to decrease (32.0%) – a deterioration from the Q3 survey, which found that over a third expected higher sales volumes (35.4%), while three in ten (30.8%) were bracing for a decrease. The share of small businesses looking forward to growth in the coming year fell slightly in Q4 compared with the previous quarter, from 49.6% to 48.2%. More worryingly, the proportion predicting that they would contract crept upward from one in eight (12.7%) in Q3 to over one in seven (15.0%) in the final quarter of 2023. The domestic economy was the largest perceived barrier to growth, cited by over three-fifths of small firms (61.8%), down from 63.5% in Q3. Consumer demand was next-most commonly cited, at three in ten (30.7%), down from one in three in Q3 (33.3%). Labour costs, however, saw the greatest increase between Q3 and Q4 as a cited barrier to growth, jumping from a fifth (21.2%) to over a quarter (27.3%), while the tax burden was also cited by more firms, going from 20.9% in Q3 to 23.2% in Q4. Indications of cost pressures eased somewhat, with 82.5% of small firms saying the cost of running their business was higher in Q4 2023 than in the same period in 2022, down from 86.0% in Q3. Looking at the proportion who said this cost was significantly higher than 12 months ago, the fall from 28.9% in Q3 to 24.7% in Q4 was encouraging. While this is the lowest result on this measure since Q4 2021, two years ago, it remains much higher than the average over the past decade. Of the factors driving cost changes, utilities were once again the most commonly-cited cause, chosen by over three in five small firms (62.5%), a position they have held since Q1 2022. Labour costs regained the second-place spot, cited by 45.7% of firms, up from 42.8% in Q3. Tax costs also ticked upward as a factor, cited by a fifth (19.7%) of firms in Q3 but by a quarter (24.2%) in Q4, the highest proportion since Q1 2022. Among small exporters, there were mixed results over Q4, with over a quarter (26.1%) saying they grew their exports over the period in question, up from 24.4% in Q3, but with a jump in the proportion who reported a fall in exports, up from 26.9% in Q3 to 36.9% in Q4. Late payments are causing headaches for two in three small businesses (65.8%), up from three in five (60.8%) in Q3. Notably, the proportion of small firms saying their existing late payment problem had become worse over the course of the last three months jumped from one in five in Q3 (20.5%) to over a quarter in Q4 (27.4%). Tina McKenzie, FSB’s Policy Chair, said: “Losing the ground made up in the third quarter in terms of the overall confidence level among small firms should be a wake-up call to the Government and to decision-makers." “It’s especially disheartening that this slip in confidence happened in the so-called ‘golden quarter’, which so many hospitality and retail firms in particular rely on to shore up their finances ahead of the new year’s belt-tightening." “With small hospitality firms reporting a big fall in their confidence, there are fears of yet more distress and closures among this sector, so vital to community spirit and our social fabric. The help extended to small firms in the retail, leisure and hospitality sectors at the Autumn Statement via an extension of business rates relief is a welcome start, and will mitigate their tax burden later this year, but right now things are tough." “The lack of optimism for revenue growth in the first three months of 2024 points to trouble ahead, even as the economy bumps along just above the level which would trigger an official recession. Turning around the mood among many small businesses is going to require strong measures to promote growth in the Spring Budget." “The figures on late payment show why it was so important for the Chancellor to call attention to the issue in the Autumn Statement speech. It’s obviously far too early for his words to have had an impact yet, but we look forward to more progress in getting money to small firms in a timely fashion. Cashflow issues are all too often fatal to small firms." “We’d like to see small firms given a lift by an increased VAT threshold of at least £100,000, to make up some of the amount lost through years of a freeze which has dragged many across the £85,000 limit, and curtailed the growth of tens of thousands of other businesses. This would improve revenues and ease financial pressures." “The export numbers indicate that the barriers faced by small exporters are hampering their operations. We’re looking forward to the introduction of the Single Trade Window later this year, so small firms can benefit from a ‘once and done’ approach to the collection of the data they need to provide to export or import, and are working with the Government to ensure that it is small business-friendly. The ‘de minimis’ customs duty threshold should also be increased to £1,000, to relieve margin pressure, while international visitors to the UK should be encouraged to splash out via the reintroduction of tax-free shopping." “It’s hard to find much by way of signs of optimism in the results, although the fall in cost inflation – and the general downward trend in inflation since its peak in late 2022 – is certainly good news. Small firms are still contending with higher costs than at the same time last year, but the pressure has loosened to an appreciable degree." “High interest rates have reduced small firms’ margins and held back their ability to invest in their business, so we would look to the Bank of England to cut the base rate as soon as possible, to minimise the economic damage caused." “Small firms are ever the economy’s canary in the coalmine, more exposed to shifts in consumer behaviour and changing circumstances due to their lower levels of reserves to fall back on. With many fighting hard to keep going amid challenging circumstances, their ingenuity, grit, and tenacity are being tested to the limit.”

Leicester City Football Club can confirm that Cesare Casadei has been recalled by parent club Chelsea. The 21-year-old, who joined the Foxes on loan in August 2023, featured on 25 occasions in all competitions. He netted on his debut at home to Cardiff City before going on to score a further two goals in games against Rotherham United and Millwall. He leaves Leicester City with the best wishes of everyone at the Football Club.

Skateboarding is more than just a sport; it's a culture, a way of life that has captured the hearts and imaginations of millions around the world. With its roots in the streets of California, skateboarding has evolved into a global phenomenon that transcends generations and continues to push the boundaries of creativity and athleticism. Skateboarding's origins can be traced back to the 1950s when surfers in California sought a way to replicate the feeling of riding waves on land. They affixed roller skate wheels to wooden planks, creating a rudimentary skateboard. The sport gained momentum in the 1970s when skateboard parks and vertical ramps proliferated. However, it truly exploded onto the global scene in the 1980s, thanks to the advent of street skateboarding and influential figures like Tony Hawk. Skateboarding's influence extends far beyond the ramps and parks. It has left an indelible mark on popular culture, inspiring music, fashion, and art. Skateboarders have also been instrumental in shaping the aesthetics of streetwear and have often collaborated with musicians, artists, and designers. Additionally, skateboarding has featured prominently in films and documentaries, further cementing its place in pop culture. What draws people to skateboarding is the sheer thrill of it. Whether they are carving down a steep hill, performing a kickflip in a skatepark, or grinding along a handrail, skateboarders experience a unique sense of freedom and exhilaration. The sport allows for self-expression, creativity, and pushing personal boundaries, making it a deeply rewarding and addictively fun pursuit. Skateboarding is a remarkably inclusive activity. It transcends age, gender, and cultural backgrounds. Skateparks and DIY skate spots are gathering places for diverse communities of skaters who share a common passion. The camaraderie and mutual support among skateboarders are central to the sport's enduring appeal. Skateboarding, like any extreme sport, comes with inherent risks. Injuries are not uncommon, and riders must learn to manage them while honing their skills. Safety gear, such as helmets, knee pads, and wrist guards, is essential. Responsible skateboarding promotes safety and proper etiquette in skateparks, ensuring the longevity of this beloved pastime. As skateboarding continues to evolve, it has found a place on the world stage, most notably as an official sport in the Summer Olympics. This development has led to increased visibility and interest in the sport, potentially paving the way for new generations of skateboarders to push the boundaries even further. Skateboarding is more than a sport; it's a way of life, a culture, and a global phenomenon. It has left an indelible mark on pop culture, inspiring creativity and individuality. As it continues to evolve and adapt, skateboarding remains a thrilling and inclusive pursuit that defies gravity and embodies the spirit of freedom and self-expression. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a novice on four wheels, skateboarding offers a unique experience that transcends generations and borders, making it a timeless and exhilarating adventure.

London Zoo has welcomed a critically endangered western lowland gorilla infant, after a speedy 17-minute labour. The tiny infant was born at the conservation zoo to mum Mjukuu at 9:34am on Wednesday 17 January 2024, following an approximately eight-and-a-half-month long pregnancy. London Zoo’s gorilla keepers were carrying out their usual morning duties when they first spotted that Mjukuu was in labour. Giving the experienced mum some space, they monitored her via CCTV cameras installed in the dens. Moments after giving birth in the privacy of their back dens, second-time mum Mjukuu could be seen gently cradling her newborn, before allowing the troop’s curious youngsters Alika and Gernot to examine the intriguing new arrival. London Zoo’s Primates Section Manager Kathryn Sanders said: “We started our day as normal – we gave the gorillas their breakfast and began our cleaning routines. When we returned to their back dens, we could see Mjukuu was starting to stretch and squat – a sign that she was in labour." “After a very quick labour – just 17 minutes – Mjukuu was spotted on camera tenderly holding her newborn and demonstrating her wonderful mothering instincts – cleaning her infant and checking it over.” The birth of a western lowland gorilla at London Zoo is a real cause for celebration – the subspecies is critically endangered and as a result of poaching and disease their wild numbers have declined by more than 60% over the last 25 years. The infant was fathered by Kiburi, who arrived at London Zoo from Tenerife in November 2022 as part of the international conservation breeding programme for western lowland gorillas – the programme ensures the preservation of a genetically diverse and healthy population of the gorilla subspecies. Kathryn added: “To say we’re happy about this new arrival would be a huge understatement – we’ve all been walking around grinning from ear to ear." “We’ll be giving mum and baby lots of time and space to get to know each other, and for the rest of the troop to get used to their new addition – they’re as excited as we are and can’t stop staring at the baby.” Zookeepers are yet to confirm the sex of the infant, who has remained closely snuggled in its adoring mum’s arms. The infant will remain in close contact with mum for around the first six months of its life.

Alltruck plc, a leading provider of commercial transportation solutions, is the only business in the transport sector to be admitted as a corporate member of The Furniture Makers’ Company, the City of London livery company and charity for the furnishing industry. Founded in 1990 and employing a 140-strong team, Alltruck is headquartered in Leicester and also has offices, workshops & bodyshops in Nottingham, Loughborough and Ilkeston. It is a specialist in HGV and van contract hire, truck rental, fleet management and maintenance, priding itself on building long-standing relationships with suppliers and customers. Alltruck boasts a number of leading furniture businesses within its customer base including Derbyshire-headquartered furniture designer and maker Celtheath, three of whose directors are liverymen of The Furniture Makers Company. Josh Robinson, managing director of Alltruck, comments: “We were drawn to The Furniture Makers’ Company as its values align seamlessly with our own, particularly in terms of community engagement and passion for making a difference. Our membership will enhance our CSR initiatives, creating a mutually beneficial relationship that positively impacts both our company and the community. “A commitment to supporting apprentices and fostering craft skills is also integral to our mission. As an Investors in People Platinum employer and recipient of the 'Top 50 Medium-sized Businesses to Work For in 2023' title, we are dedicated to providing a positive and empowering workplace." “Joining The Furniture Makers’ Company reflects our dedication to ethical practices, community enrichment and the sustained growth of our industry.” Alltruck was formally welcomed as a corporate member at an admission ceremony in December 2023 at Furniture Makers’ Hall, London. Paul Robinson, chairman; Josh Robinson, managing director; and Peter Bosi, business development manager, were admitted as corporate liverymen and personally welcomed by the Master of The Furniture Makers’ Company. Corporate membership provides opportunities for leading businesses from the trade to support the Company’s charitable activities, get involved with civic events and network with other members. Amanda Waring, Master of The Furniture Makers’ Company, said: “As an historic livery company which represents all parts of the furniture and furnishings industry, we are pleased to welcome yet another sector to our diverse corporate membership, adding further strength in depth to our network of businesses. A provider of transport services to some of the best-known names in the furniture and furnishings industry, Alltruck is another vital link in our robust sector.”

With readers welcoming the second volume of Martin Van Helden’s business self-help guides, this latest edition is all about passion; how to use it, keep it and ensure it flows throughout your organisation, regardless of size. Fully aware that one solution doesn’t fit all, this highly experienced business (and tax) savvy author shares with readers a range of solutions that can be ‘clicked’ together to meet precise needs, just like building blocks. Bursting with advice that is guaranteed to strike a chord with business owners and inspire them into action, the author is on a mission to publish two new volumes every year until 2026. And with the next edition scheduled for mid-2024 there’s plenty of time to reap the benefits of the contents of this insightful book. Passion is the foundation for every strong business. It gives you the momentum to keep always growing your business even higher. Never underestimate a person or organization with a vision and passion because that has so much power beyond what you can even imagine. “How Passion Can Make A Business” is an empowering book that helps you understand how passion is imbedded in the whole business organization, and how you can get yourself, your staff and your business to the next level and maintain it for the future. It also contains powerful tips to organize action plans, risk assessment, progress notes, how to use the “Bottom-up focus system” and much more. It can lift you as a person and your business to a higher level of understanding and professionalism, which will also propel your customer experience and your business income to the highest level ever. Martin says: “With my innate ability to simplify complex material into digestible and easy to follow advice, my book provides a variety of powerful options for business owners on how to deal with all facets of the business and the effect it has on you as a person to take it all to the top level." "My hope is that these books will form a base of business learning and provide encouragement for people to get the best out of work and personal lives.” Published by Clark & Mackay, How Passion Can Make a Business is available in paperback (ISBN No: 978-1922784797) priced £12.99 here