Professional services firm, AAB, is announcing a strategic consolidation of its five brands across the UK and Ireland, a cornerstone of its six-year plan to strengthen and expand its position as a leading provider in the mid-market. Employing around 1,000 people across 12 office locations, AAB will bring FPM, Sagars and May Figures under its main brand title, AAB. Think People and SeeHearSpeakUp will become AAB People. AAB delivers Audit, Accounting, Tax, Payroll, HR, Consulting and Advisory Solutions globally from offices across United Kingdom, Ireland and United States, with annual turnover approaching £100 million. The rapidly growing business, with its expanding client base, has trebled in size since 2021, ranking in the top 20 of Accountancy Daily’s Top 75 Accountancy Firms last year. This strategic move is designed to optimise AAB’s robust brand presence, enhance market penetration, and deliver a more integrated experience for clients. AAB's growth plan, which includes enhancing client engagement, expanding its service offerings and investing in technology, has continued backing from August Equity. A transition period is currently underway, ensuring that clients experience a seamless change with no disruption to services. Emma Lancaster, Chief Executive at AAB commented: "Our brand consolidation marks a pivotal moment in our growth journey. By combining our diverse services under the widely recognised AAB brand, we are not only simplifying our structure, but also amplifying our ability to deliver integrated, innovative solutions to our clients. This alignment is crucial as we continue to pursue our ambitious growth targets and expand our footprint in the UK and beyond." "AAB's commitment to our clients remains steadfast, with a focus on delivering unparalleled accountancy, consultancy and advisory services that drive success," added Lancaster. "By uniting our brands, we will operate more efficiently and effectively, enhancing our ability to offer holistic professional services, and ensuring that our clients continue to receive exceptional support as they navigate their own journeys." “We have a wealth of experience and expertise across all five brands, and we are delighted to welcome these individuals to the AAB brand. I’d like to thank everyone in our team for their continued hard work.”

An award-winning Leicestershire firm that supplies luxury brands such as Givenchy, Sisley, and LVMH, as well as High Street giants Boots, Superdrug, and Asda, has announced a major rebranding initiative and the appointment of a new Managing Director. Melita POS, headquartered at Leicester’s Meridian Business Park, has been a leader in end-to-end Point of Sale (POS) and merchandising solutions for over 25 years. The company, which unites the diverse services of design, manufacturing, warehousing, merchandising and installation under one powerful brand, is the result of the amalgamation of Display Logistics, DL Manufacturing, and KK Installations. Despite these changes, Melita POS remains a proud family-owned and operated business. This strategic move marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Melita POS, with an ambitious program of investment and growth being spearheaded by new Managing Director, Dan Jacques (pictured) alongside Company Director Emily Jacques, Operations Director, Rich Metcalf, Production Director Glynn Parker and Warehouse Director, Mark Jacques. New MD Dan Jacques said: "I am incredibly proud to take on this role and continue our family legacy. Our rebranding as Melita POS and the integration of our diverse services are pivotal steps in enhancing our ability to serve our clients more effectively. Melita is a name with significant personal connection to our family, making it the perfect choice for a business that values long-term relationships." Originally established as Display Logistics in 1997 by Shivena and Steve Jacques on West Avenue in Wigston, the company has built a stellar reputation with its commitment to excellence and innovation earning it numerous industry accolades and a trusted position within the market. Today Melita POS employees 35 workers and brings a turnover of over £6 million to the local economy, as well as a commitment to support growth and success within Leicestershire. An ambitious growth strategy accompanies the new company structure with Melita POS expecting to increase its workforce by 50 per cent and its turnover by over 200% over the next five years, as part of an international development strategy that will turn this family firm into a global heavyweight. Dan continued “As a company we are deeply committed to driving growth, ensuring sustainability, and fostering the development of our talented staff. Our future success hinges on our ability to innovate and adapt, while also nurturing a work environment that values and invests in our people. Together, we will not only meet but exceed our goals, creating a lasting impact for our clients and the community." For more information about Melita POS and its services, please visit here.

The Giant's Causeway, located on the picturesque Northern Irish coastline, is a geological wonder that has captivated the imagination of visitors for centuries. This unique natural formation is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic landmarks in the United Kingdom. So what is the fascinating history, formation, and scientific significance of the Giant's Causeway? Geological Formation The Giant's Causeway is renowned for its hexagonal basalt columns, which resemble a pathway of stepping stones leading into the sea. This otherworldly formation is the result of an ancient volcanic eruption that took place around 60 million years ago, during the Paleogene period. The eruption spewed molten basaltic lava into the area, creating a vast lava plateau. As the lava cooled and contracted, it fractured into the distinctive hexagonal columns we see today. The Basalt Columns The primary attraction of the Giant's Causeway is undoubtedly its basalt columns. These columns are a testament to the incredible power of geological processes. Each column is an almost perfect hexagon, typically measuring around 12 inches in diameter and up to 39 feet in height. These columns fit together like interlocking puzzle pieces, forming the iconic stepped appearance. The Legend of Finn McCool The Giant's Causeway is steeped in mythology, with one of the most famous legends being that of Finn McCool. According to Irish folklore, Finn McCool was a giant who lived on the Antrim coast. He supposedly built the Causeway to reach his rival giant, Benandonner, who lived across the sea in Scotland. The legend adds a touch of enchantment to the already mesmerizing landscape. Scientific Significance Apart from its mythical allure, the Giant's Causeway is of immense scientific importance. It offers a glimpse into the Earth's geological history and the processes that have shaped our planet. The formation of these basalt columns provides valuable insights into how volcanic activity and rapid cooling can lead to such unique structures. Erosion and Conservation The Giant's Causeway has not remained unchanged since its formation millions of years ago. Erosion, weathering, and human activity have all played a role in shaping the site. To preserve its natural beauty and scientific value, extensive conservation efforts have been undertaken. A visitor centre provides information and guides to ensure that tourists can explore the site responsibly. Visiting the Giant's Causeway The Giant's Causeway is easily accessible and welcomes visitors from around the world. The best time to visit is during the summer months, but it is open year-round. You can explore the hexagonal columns, walk along the cliffs, and enjoy stunning views of the North Atlantic Ocean. It's a place that inspires wonder and leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. The Giant's Causeway stands as a testament to the awe-inspiring forces of nature and the rich cultural heritage of Northern Ireland. Its unique geological formations, steeped in legend and history, continue to draw visitors from far and wide. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it remains a symbol of the natural beauty and scientific significance that the world's wonders can hold, reminding us of the Earth's extraordinary past and the 1marvels it continues to reveal to us.

Sortera , foremost within collection, recycling, processing, and sale of residual products from the building and construction sector in Northern Europe, strengthens its market position in the construction waste market across Greater London by acquiring Reston Waste Management Ltd . Reston Waste is one of the largest independent waste companies in South West London. Following the recent integration and rebranding of previously acquired companies O’Donovan Waste Disposal (acquired in 2022) and GBN Services (acquired in 2023) to Sortera, the addition of Reston Waste makes Sortera the largest independent construction waste company across Greater London. The acquisition is strategically important as it extends Sortera’s footprint into South West London, enabling customers to benefit from an expanded service area, enhanced efficiencies and improved response times, serving projects from residential to large commercial developments. Mark McCleery, Managing Director of Sortera’s UK operations commented: “We are delighted to welcome the Reston team to our growing Sortera family here in London. Reston is a very impressive company with an offering centered on customers and sustainability." "This is very much aligned with the Sortera way of working. Their geographic focus on South London is a perfect complement to our current operations in North and Central London. Our third acquisition in the UK allows us to continue our journey of creating the largest construction waste recycling company with a focus on service, quality and sustainability." Andrew Reston, Managing Director and owner of Reston Waste said:. “This day marks an important milestone in the history of Reston Waste. I am confident that Sortera is the best home for the business that we have built over the years and look forward to our joint future together. Sortera’s values are very similar to how we have run our business, especially with its focus on sustainability and customer satisfaction. This transaction ensures our legacy of excellence continues.” With the acquisition of Reston, Sortera continues its international growth journey. With a strong commitment to sustainability and quality, Sortera’s ambition is to drive the transition to a more circular construction waste economy across Northern Europe. Reston is part of Sortera from 11 th July 2024. This is Sortera’s 22nd acquisition since it was established in 2006. With the new acquisition, Sortera´s turnover will increase to over SEK 3.6 billion. ABOUT RESTON WASTE MANAGEMENT LTD Reston Waste Management Ltd was founded in 1998 by Andrew and Sharon Reston and has since grown to become one of the leading independent waste companies in London. Reston operates from two sites in Wimbledon and one site in Epsom, supported by a fleet of over 70 vehicles and approximately 180 employees. ABOUT SORTERA Sortera is a leading company with a strong Nordic heritage within collection, recycling, processing and sale of residual products of construction waste. Sortera provides solutions that contribute to increased sustainability and improved environmental performance in all areas. With over 1000 employees and a turnover of SEK 3.6 billion, Sortera covers the entire value chain from collection, sorting, treatment and disposal. Every day, Sortera performs services that make a difference to the environment and for thousands of companies and individuals in Northern Europe.

Cricket, often referred to as the "gentleman's game," is a sport with a rich and fascinating history that spans centuries. Its origins can be traced back to medieval England, where it began as a rustic pastime and evolved into a global phenomenon with a passionate following. So why is the history of cricket intriguing and how has it evolved into the sport we know today. Early Beginnings The exact origins of cricket are shrouded in the mists of time, but it is believed to have been played as early as the 13th century in England. Initially, it was a game enjoyed by shepherds and farmers in the countryside. The earliest references to cricket can be found in legal documents from the 16th century, which mention a game called "creckett" being played in Guildford, Surrey. Evolution into a Formal Sport During the 17th century, cricket started to gain popularity beyond rural communities. The sport's growth can be attributed, in part, to the formation of cricket clubs, with one of the earliest being the Hambledon Club in Hampshire, established in the mid-18th century. These clubs began to standardise the rules and regulations of the game, helping cricket transition from an informal pastime to a structured sport. The Birth of County Cricket One of the most significant developments in cricket's history was the emergence of county cricket in the 18th century. This marked the transition to a more competitive and organised format, with counties such as Kent, Surrey, and Sussex leading the way. The creation of the MCC (Marylebone Cricket Club) in 1787 further contributed to the standardization of cricket rules. The Impact of Colonialism As the British Empire expanded, so did the reach of cricket. The sport was introduced to India, the West Indies, Australia, and other parts of the world through British colonialism. Cricket became a symbol of British influence, and local communities embraced the game, adapting it to their own traditions and styles. This marked the beginning of international cricket as we know it today. The First International Match The first-ever international cricket match took place in 1877 when an English team led by James Lillywhite faced an Australian team captained by Dave Gregory. The match, held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, marked the beginning of Test cricket, a format that remains at the pinnacle of the sport. The Evolution of Formats While Test cricket maintained its prestige, the 20th century saw the emergence of limited-overs formats. One-day internationals (ODIs) were introduced in the 1970s, followed by the revolutionary Twenty20 (T20) format in the early 21st century. These formats brought a new dimension to the game, making it more accessible and entertaining for a wider audience. Cricket Today In the 21st century, cricket has grown into a global phenomenon, with numerous countries participating in international competitions such as the ICC Cricket World Cup and ICC World Twenty20. The sport boasts a massive fan base, with fervent supporters in countries like India, Pakistan, Australia, and England. Cricket's history is a tale of evolution, adaptation, and the enduring passion of players and fans. From its humble origins in English villages to the glitzy stadiums and high-stakes tournaments of today, cricket remains a sport that unites nations and captures the imagination of millions around the world. Whether played in whites under the scorching sun of a Test match or in colourful jerseys in the fast-paced world of T20 cricket, the game continues to thrive, reflecting its enduring appeal and timeless traditions.

Loughborough’s historic market has invested in the future after taking delivery of new stalls for its traders. The market, which has operated for over 800 years and is now run by Charnwood Borough Council, has replaced 69 stalls with new robust designs which include colourful canopies. The new designs will mean fewer markets will need to be reduced or cancelled due to adverse weather conditions. The new stalls are one element of the wider Living Loughborough project which is benefitting from Loughborough Town Deal funding worth £2.87 million. The delivery of the new stalls has been led by Charnwood Borough Council. Councillor Jennifer Tillotson, the Council’s lead member for economic development, regeneration and town centres, said: “It fantastic to see this investment from the Loughborough Town Deal go into our famous market here in Loughborough." “These new stalls will allow us to expand our events calendar with more specialist markets and events which are enjoyed by many visitors and increase footfall within the town centre." “Already, new traders have approached us about wanting to come and join Loughborough’s markets as they recognise the quality of the new stalls and our ever-growing reputation for delivering great markets." “We have received positive feedback from our existing traders and it is a really exciting time to see these new stalls in place. They look great and further boost the buzz there is in Loughborough when markets take place.” Martin Traynor OBE, Chair of Loughborough Town Deal, said: “Loughborough's markets are an important part of the town's retail offer which also attracts many visitors from around the region. This investment by Loughborough Town Deal significantly improves both the appearance and the quality of the market stalls." “The Living Loughborough project is improving the town centre in many different ways and these new market stalls are just another element of where this project is delivering real benefits for Loughborough." "I was really pleased that we were able to procure these new stalls from a company based in Charnwood.” Steph Smith, a trader on Loughborough’s retail market, said: “These new stalls are a real improvement, are much better for traders to use and I am really pleased to see this investment in Loughborough Market.” There are 69 new stalls, replacing the previous models which were vulnerable to bad weather and less user friendly. The new stalls are made of galvanized steel and are heavier. They are still movable when different layouts are needed or for when the stalls need removing for other town centre events. New canopies featuring the markets logo complement the steel structures, which reference to the when the market was first founded in 1221. Lighting will also be installed on all the stalls later this year. This will allow events to take place during the evening including the Christmas lights switch-on. There will be new back-drops for the stalls which will protect traders and their goods. The stalls were made by Springfield Pressings in Thurmaston and managing director, Tim Holt said: “It has been a great project for Springfield to have been involved with from the design to manufacture and installation of the new stalls, also it has been a great pleasure to have worked with the Loughborough markets team." “Living in Charnwood myself, it has given me a great sense of pleasure to give something back to the local community of Loughborough and the surrounding villages." “I can already see what the new stalls will bring to the town and its residents. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved in this project especially my staff for making it happen on time.” Loughborough Markets’ Thursday and Saturday retail street markets are among the largest in the area and steeped in 800 years of history. Every Friday, a Vintage and Collectors Market takes place in Loughborough and a micro-market in Shepshed. The Council is also bringing more and more specialist markets to the heart of Loughborough. There was recently a new Kickstart Market and more specialist markets are due to be announced soon. Loughborough Town Deal secured £16.9 million from the Government’s Towns Fund and is backing 11 projects, which in total are worth more than £40 million of investment for the town. The Living Loughborough project supported by the Town Deal includes: The introduction of new interactive digital trails to encourage people to explore the town centre and its heritage. The trails feature augmented reality which means they will be able to ‘see into the past’ using a mobile phone app. Holding more events. Digital signage to showcase local events and information. Investment in Loughborough Markets. Addition of a covered area in Southfields Park to hold events. The expansion of CCTV cameras in four locations to improve public safety. The creation of a new post with Love Loughborough to support crime reduction in the town centre including the purchase of 100 new radios for traders as part of the retail radio scheme. More 1-2-1 support for businesses on topics including using digital technology and marketing. Improvements to Queen’s Park including to the entrances from Granby Street and Granby Street car park, the addition of new information points, new lighting to the bandstand and improved lighting of the Carillon Tower. The expansion of free public wi-fi in the town centre to include Ward’s End, Devonshire Square, Bedford Square and Queen’s Park. Photo shows left to right: Charles Bentley, Loughborough Town Deal board member, Martin Traynor MBE, chair of Loughborough Town Deal, Cllr Deborah Taylor, Loughborough Town Deal board member, Lez Cope-Newman, Loughborough Town Deal board member and Cllr Jennifer Tillotson, the Council's lead member for economic development, regeneration and town centres

Golf, a sport of precision and patience, has a history that spans centuries and continents. From humble beginnings on the rugged landscapes of Scotland to becoming a global phenomenon played on manicured courses around the world, the history of golf is a journey filled with fascinating developments and stories. So let's take a look at the evolution of this sport, from its mysterious origins to its modern-day popularity. The Mysterious Origins The precise origins of golf are shrouded in mystery. While the sport is often associated with Scotland, its roots can be traced back to various ancient games involving sticks and balls. One theory suggests that a game called "kolven" played in the Netherlands during the 13th century had similarities to golf. Another contender is the Roman game of "paganica," where participants used a bent stick to hit a stuffed leather ball. These early forms of golf laid the groundwork for what was to come. Birth of the Golf Course The first official golf course, the Old Course at St. Andrews, emerged in the early 15th century in Scotland. Initially, golf was played on open, rough terrain with natural hazards like sand dunes and rabbit holes. As the game gained popularity, golfers began to shape and manicure these landscapes, giving rise to the concept of the golf course. The Royal Connection Golf's popularity in Scotland was significantly boosted when King James IV became an avid player in the late 15th century. The sport gained a royal seal of approval, and it soon became associated with nobility. The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, founded in 1754, played a crucial role in standardizing the rules of golf. The Spread of Golf Golf crossed the Atlantic in the late 18th century when Scottish immigrants brought the game to North America. The first golf club in the United States, The South Carolina Golf Club (later renamed Harleston Green), was founded in 1786. The sport began to take root in the U.S., and by the 20th century, it had firmly established itself. Modern Golf The 20th century witnessed remarkable developments in golf. The Masters Tournament, one of golf's four major championships, began in 1934. Golfers like Bobby Jones, Ben Hogan, and Arnold Palmer became household names, and television coverage propelled the sport's popularity to new heights. In 1960, the launch of the PGA Tour and the establishment of the Ryder Cup as a biennial competition between American and European teams further elevated golf's status. Tiger Woods burst onto the scene in the late 1990s, captivating a global audience and sparking a surge in interest in the sport. Golf Today Today, golf is played and watched by millions worldwide. It has evolved into a sport with numerous professional tournaments, including The Open Championship, the U.S. Open, and the PGA Championship. Women's golf has also flourished, with legends like Annika Sörenstam and more recently, players like Inbee Park and Nelly Korda, making significant contributions to the sport. The advent of technology has transformed golf, with advanced clubs, balls, and tracking systems improving players' performance. Golf courses have become architectural marvels, offering challenging layouts and breathtaking scenery. The history of golf is a journey that spans centuries and continents, from its enigmatic origins to its global prominence today. What started as a simple pastime has evolved into a sport that captivates the hearts and minds of millions. As golf continues to grow and adapt, it remains a testament to the enduring appeal of a game that has stood the test of time. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a weekend enthusiast, the allure of golf is undeniable, connecting us to a rich and storied past while inspiring future generations to pick up a club and take a swing.

Robert Walters has announced that it is unifying its three brands – Robert Walters, Walters People and Resource Solutions – into a single brand, Robert Walters, signalling the next step in the company’s vision to be the world’s most trusted talent solutions business. The move comes amidst a changing global landscape, that is not only seeing the talent requirements and hiring processes of businesses evolve – but also the needs and expectations of today’s professionals. Robert Walters is combining all of its expertise – specialist professional recruitment, recruitment outsourcing and talent advisory – into one business allowing it to more seamlessly offer a full suite of talent solutions to help organisations address their hiring challenges. Robert Walters will offer three core service lines: Specialist Professional Recruitment: encompassing permanent and temporary recruitment, executive search and interim management. Recruitment Outsourcing: enabling organisations to transfer all, or part of, their recruitment needs to Robert Walters either through recruitment process outsourcing (RPO) or contingent workforce solutions (CWS). Talent Advisory: supporting the growth of organisations through market intelligence, talent development, and future of work consultancy. Toby Fowlston – CEO of Robert Walters, comments: “In the past few years, organisations’ hiring requirements have become more complex. From managing talent pipelines, whilst ensuring hiring is inclusive, through to accommodating different modes of employment, our clients want guidance and advice from a single partner across their talent landscape and we have evolved to meet their needs." “In this increasingly complex world, we want to make our clients’ lives easier. By combining our complementary expertise, products and services – specialist professional recruitment, recruitment outsourcing and talent advisory – we offer end-to-end talent solutions across the 31 countries we operate in.” As part of this brand unification, Robert Walters has introduced a new logo and visual identity that captures the essence of its global reach and expertise in talent solutions. The brand, designed to reflect the company's commitment to quality of service, features refreshed design, imagery and typography – and has been awarded the Best Professional Services Rebrand at the Transform Awards earlier this year. The company's digital presence will be revamped to align with the new visual identity, providing a seamless user experience for clients and candidates across the globe. Toby adds: "Next year will mark 40 years of Robert Walters, and we are excited to be evolving into a talent solutions business whilst building upon, and continuing to grow, our specialist professional recruitment offering." “Our vision is to become the world’s most trusted talent solutions business, but our purpose remains unchanged - to help organisations find the skills and solutions to reach their goals and assist talented professionals to power their unique potential.”

Sheffield man, Ozzy Jama, who turned his life around through boxing has become the first student to secure a new fully-funded Master’s course in strength and conditioning coaching, helping to increase diversity in the industry. The scholarship was established jointly between Sheffield Hallam University and the Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme (TASS) earlier this year. It aims to advance equity of opportunity and will enable exceptional individuals to have the opportunity to access postgraduate study to improve their chances of forging a successful career in the industry. Sheffield Hallam is one of only four universities in the UK to offer a scholarship of this nature with TASS, which will run for two academic years. Ozzy, 26, has just completed his first year of the course after his application was accepted. He has overcome adversity in his life through physical activity and is now keen to give back and have a career in the industry. Ozzy joined Unity Gym in Broomhall when he was 15 years old. He said there were negative influences in his environment at this time and the people at the gym showed him a different path. He quickly discovered a passion for sport and physical activity and wanted to give back to his community. He became a youth leader, taking part in community activities and mentoring. He went to college to pursue a sport related career but transitioned towards youth work and community development and started a degree in sport development in Leeds. He was unable to graduate from his degree, but he continued to work in a youth role with the gym. He first heard about the TASS Scholarship Scheme from Dave Hembrough, strength and conditioning lead at Sheffield Hallam University who is also active in supporting young people locally through sport. Ozzy applied for the scholarship and was successful. He started the one-year course in September and says he has already learned a huge amount. Ozzy said: “The people at the gym had a real impact on me personally. When you’re young, you don’t realise the consequences of your actions. I wanted to be healthier and stronger, and I was passionate about the community and trying to encourage a positive mindset." “The scholarship came at a really good time for me, and I was grateful to god for the opportunity. I had a passion for strength training but I didn’t have the knowledge. Now I know more about the science behind it. I’ve got an appetite for learning, and I find it joyful." “My main goal through the course is to establish a career and become a strength and conditioning coach but I will always want to give back to Unity Gym and the community as well.” Sheffield Hallam’s MSc Strength and Conditioning Coaching course prepares individuals for a career in strength and conditioning and challenges students to evaluate the physical elements of sport performance and health, implement tailored strength and conditioning and develop practical coaching skills through experiential learning. Steve Thompson, Senior Lecturer and Course Leader for the MSc in Strength and Conditioning Coaching, said: “Ozzy’s story was the one that stood out. The way he turned his life around after having difficulties as a young person and giving back was inspiring." “He was the perfect fit and exactly what we wanted when we set up the scholarship. Our hope was to break down barriers for people who don’t normally have the opportunity to study a master’s in this field." “Ozzy is doing really well on the course, and it’s been a pleasure getting to know him. We’re hoping to get the University involved in the Unity Gym project as well.” Applications are now open for the next round of scholarship funding.

Mementoes from one of the most incredible heroes of World War Two who lost an entire squadron of tanks in one action have been donated to the Tank Museum. Lt Col Jack Prichard DSO MC had an astonishing war and now some of his most personal possessions will remain at the award-winning Dorset attraction. Prichard’s war involved fighting Germans in north Africa, capture, escape, fighting with Italian partisans, escaping to Switzerland, swerving internment, and returning to Italy to help finish off the Nazis. Now his Popeye mascot, which was attached to the front of his tank, swagger stick, sweetheart brooch, fake identity papers along with photos and other documents have been donated by his daughter. A close-up of a doll. The Royal Tank Regiment (RTR) hero joined up in the 1930s and served in India before being sent to north Africa after war was declared. There he fought fiercely especially at the Siege of Tobruk for which he was awarded the Military Cross. He lost 17 tanks and the whole regiment was captured, but luckily for Jack the German officer in charge had been a drinking buddy of his in Maidenhead before the war and ensured he and the men had food and water. Prichard was held in an Italian camp and after the Italian surrender in September 1943 he broke out with almost everyone else. While his comrades were captured, Prichard hid and moved around Italy for months, living on sweet chestnuts that he loathed for the rest of his life. He met with sympathetic Italians, had false documents made, travelled on trains and drank in bars. Finally he ended up fighting with the partisans against Germans and fascist Italians. Ultimately the Germans sent 16,000 troops to the area and Prichard escaped to Switzerland where he was due to be interned for the rest of the war. He was put in custody but due to the connections of his father he was appointed Aide-De-Camp to Lady Mountbatten on her visit to the country. When he saluted her off on her aeroplane she asked whether he was coming too, so he jumped aboard and flew to Paris where he had drinks at the Ritz. After 42 days leave he was back in Italy fighting the Germans in terrain he knew very well. During that period he commandeered a lorry of oranges from the US with the intention of giving them to his old partisan pals. One Italian thought he was a German spy, and he was subsequently detailed to be shot. Fortunately Jack’s superiors sorted out the situation and that evening Prichard was drinking with the senior US officer who hours earlier had wanted him executed. For his efforts during this period he was awarded the Distinguished Service Order (DSO). He stayed in the army until retirement in 1957. His daughter Lacy who has found the items said: “He was a gregarious man who got on with everyone and that was important in a tank because you were all together in a tiny space. “When he returned home after escaping our mother Eilleen – his future wife – heard he had come back and knocked on his door. On hearing the knocks he leapt behind the sofa to hide – a hangover from his months on the run. When he went on holiday to Italy in the 1960s he stopped at a petrol station and was recognised by one of the partisans he had been fighting with." “He would never have considered himself a hero, but just someone doing his job. And there were hundreds – if not thousands – of people with similar stories. He was a family man and mum was his rock. He also loved the Royal Tank Regiment and what better place is there for his things than the museum?” James Donaldson from the museum who has further researched the man said: “ This is an incredible story. It sounds like a plot from a film but Jack was very much a real hero, fighting in several theatres of war." “He lost an entire squadron during one action in the desert and was highly decorated for his fighting at the Siege of Tobruk and later fighting in Italy. His capture by an old German drinking friend, escape, time on the run, joining the partisans, getting to Switzerland and then travelling to Paris for drinks at the Ritz is quite the tale." “And then he went back and fought up Italy until the end of the war in Europe. It is extremely generous of the family to donate these items which help tell Jack’s incredible story. He was a tank man through and through and with so few of his generation surviving these mementoes become even more poignant.” Jack and Eilleen married in 1948 when he gave her the RTR sweetheart brooch which is one of the objects donated. They had three daughters and the couple retired to the Isle of Wight from Iver in Buckinghamshire. Jack worked with the Royal British Legion and the Old Comrades’ Association. He died on 12th June 1993 aged 80.

Asda has announced it recorded record online grocery sales in 2023, delivering 39 million orders with a sales value of £3.2bn, and ending the year with its highest ever online grocery market share of 20.8%. This was 2% ahead of the third-ranked supermarket and Asda’s strongest market share performance since June 2020, prior to which the pandemic drove unprecedented online sales. Online now accounts for 18% of Asda’s total grocery sales – an increase of 8% since 2020. The strong online performance was driven by continued investment in price, quality and innovation, with Asda maintaining its position as the lowest-priced online retailer throughout 2023. The supermarket has also significantly expanded its qCommerce proposition with Deliveroo, Just Eat and Uber Eats to cover more than 1,200 individual store combinations. Furthermore, more than 330 stores now offer an Express Delivery service, giving customers within a three-mile radius the opportunity to shop Asda’s full online range of 30,000 products for delivery in under an hour. Asda today filed its annual accounts at Companies House for the financial year ending December 2023, in which it delivered a 24% increase in adjusted EBITDA after rent to £1.078bn driven by 5.4% like-for-like sales growth, from its continued focus on value for customers, and the impact of strategic acquisitions in the convenience sector. Michael Gleeson, Asda’s Chief Financial Officer, said: “We are investing to build a bigger and better Asda bringing our heritage in value to more customers across the UK. Our priority remains growing the Asda business for the long-term through diversifying our offering to ensure customers can shop with us when and how it best suits them. Our online business is key part of our omnichannel offering and it is pleasing to see the investments made in price, service and to expand our digital footprint continue to resonate with customers and drive sales.” Asda’s ongoing positive performance in online grocery came as it delivered a pre-tax profit of £180m in FY23, compared with a loss before tax of £432m in 2022, reflecting an increase in operating profit and partial reversal of previous impairment provisions. Total sales (excluding fuel) increased by 7.1% to £21.9bn in FY23. Alongside its ongoing investment in online grocery – as part of its commitment to bring value to more communities across the UK – Asda last month unveiled a £50m store upgrade programme designed to improve the shopping experience for customers in its larger supermarkets and superstores. Expected to complete by the end of November, the programme will run across 170 stores including 50 larger stores which will see the introduction of new in store services and features as well as brand-new George departments in some locations. This will complement the completed conversion of about 470 convenience sites acquired from the Co-op and EG UK to Asda Express, an investment which leaves Asda strategically well-positioned in the fast-growing £40bn convenience and £60bn food-to-go markets. The strength of Asda’s FY23 performance and increased cash generation enabled it to reduce leverage from 3.9 times at the start of 2023 to 3.0 times at year end. Subsequently, the supermarket’s net debt at the end of Q124 remained at £3.8bn, net of more than £1bn cash on the balance sheet – and the business is fully committed to further deleveraging. In May 2024, Asda successfully refinanced more than £3.2bn of its debt – reflecting strong demand from investors and pushing out the majority of its maturities into the next decade.

Private sector firms expect a slight rise in activity over the next three months (weighted balance of +4%), according to the CBI’s latest Growth Indicator, However, the survey also shows that firms are less optimistic about growth than they were earlier this year. Activity is expected to be driven by modest growth in manufacturing (+13%) and services (+5%). Within the latter, business & professional services volumes are set to rise (+10%), while consumer services activity is anticipated to fall (-12%). Distribution sales are also expected to fall slightly in the three months to September (-5%). This comes after private sector activity resumed contraction in the three months to June (-7%), following a stabilisation in May (+2%). The renewed fall was generally broad-based across sectors. Alpesh Paleja, CBI Interim Deputy Chief Economist, said: “While it’s encouraging that expectations for growth remain positive in our surveys, we also have to acknowledge that they have softened compared to earlier this year." "That underscores the stop-start nature of our economic recovery and is a picture we see further reinforced by private sector activity falling over the past three months and the varied picture across sectors." “While our data suggests that some momentum should be sustained over the coming months, the fragile nature of the recovery means that whoever wins the General Election will need to be fully focused on growth from day one. That means shifting gears immediately from ambition to action and doubling down on support for business as the engine of growth, opportunity and prosperity.” Key findings from our monthly Services Sector Survey showed: Business volumes in the services sector fell modestly in the three months to June (-11%), after being unchanged in May (-1%). Within this, business & professional services volumes contracted marginally (-5%), following growth in the three months to May. The pace of decline in consumer services volumes accelerated further (-31%), marking six consecutive rolling-quarters of falling volumes. However, hiring intentions within the services sector are holding up. Both business & professional services (+14%) and consumer services (+10%) companies expect headcount to rise modestly over the next three months. Price growth expectations for services firms were broadly unchanged in June (+10% from +13% in March), standing marginally above their long-run average (+7%). This was driven by somewhat lower inflation expectations in consumer services (+17% from +23%), while business & professional services expectations were little changed from last month (+8% from +11%).