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Norwich-based industrial engineering supplier Lamberts has been acquired by South Wales’ Flocon Valves & Fittings Ltd. Both businesses supply industrial engineering products, including valves, tube and pipeline fittings used for heating, water, steam and gas within manufacturing and industrial process systems and were known to each other prior to the transaction. Lamberts, a company in which three generations of the same family had worked, was seeking a home for the business where its legacy would be respected and where it could go on to even greater success. The buyer, Flocon Valves & Fittings, was founded in 1989 and works across multiple sectors including utilities, manufacturing, and healthcare as well as construction. It also provides technical support, specialist sourcing and fast, nationwide delivery from its South Wales distribution centre. Craig Phillips from Flocon said: “This deal will give us a presence in East Anglia and neighbouring counties, enabling us to support customers in the east of the UK and serving as our next step in scaling the business. We wish the shareholders well in their retirement and look forward to integrating Lamberts into the group.” Neill Ives, Managing Director of Lamberts, said: “We are excited to be joining Flocon and taking the business positively into the future, providing our staff with even more opportunities for growth and development." The Flocon acquisition was supported by the corporate finance team at UK top 10 accountancy and business advisory firm Azets. Azets previously worked with Flocon Valves & Fittings with its own succession, which saw family members enabling the founders to retire three years ago. Since then, the business has grown significantly and signalled an intention to make further acquisitions. Azets’ Katherine Broadhurst and Adam Dix supported Flocon’s acquisition by providing fundraising, financial review, and supporting the lawyers with the financial aspects of the deal. Tax advice was provided to Flocon by Azets’ Tracy Harries and Chris Watts. Legal advice was provided by Paul Evans, Abbie Baker and Catrin Mackie of Berry Smith Katherine Broadhurst, Corporate Finance Partner at Azets, said: “While the businesses are some distance away from each other their history, cultures and approach align closely, with their knowledge of each other coming from being members of the same buying group." “It was a pleasure working with the Flocon team and we wish them well for the future which we anticipate will include further growth, supported by the geographical expansion enabled by this transaction.” Construction is one of the largest sectors in the UK economy, with a turnover of £370 billion, contributing £138 billion in value added to the UK economy and employing 3.1 million people - nine per cent of the total UK workforce. The ONS estimated that total construction output grew by 0.4 per cent in the first quarter of 2026, compared with the final three months of 2025. For more information about Azets, visit here. Photo: (l-r) Adam Dix, Azets; Scott Price, Lamberts; Matthew Davies, Flocon; Craig Phillips, Flocon; Neill Ives, Lamberts, Andrew Phillips, Flocon; Katherine Broadhurst, Azets.

A University of Dundee scientist whose discoveries are transforming drug discovery has received national recognition for his ground-breaking research. Professor Alessio Ciulli, founder and Director of the University’s Centre for Targeted Protein Degradation (CeTPD), has been elected a Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences, one of the UK’s most prestigious scientific honours. He is among 60 new Fellows selected for their exceptional contributions to advancing medical science and delivering benefits to patients and society. Professor Ciulli is one of the founding architects of targeted protein degradation (TPD) — a transformative approach in drug discovery that repurposes the cell’s own waste disposal machinery to destroy disease-causing proteins. Unlike traditional drugs that merely suppress the activity of a harmful protein, degraders eliminate it entirely, opening the possibility of tackling diseases that were previously considered untreatable. The approach holds promise across a broad range of conditions, from cancer and neurodegenerative diseases to inflammation and beyond. Professor Ciulli’s vision has shaped not only the science but the ecosystem around it. He established CeTPD in Dundee as a leading international hub for innovation, discovery and training in the field. He has also been a pioneer in reimagining how academia and industry collaborate, exemplified by his long-standing partnership with pharmaceutical companies and his role as biotech founder and entrepreneur, a model that is helping accelerate the translation of fundamental discoveries into medicines. This recognition from the Academy of Medical Sciences comes at a landmark moment for TPD, with the very first drug to work through the protein degradation mechanism having received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of cancer. It is a milestone that validates years of foundational research and signals the dawn of an entirely new era in medicine. “To be named a Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences is a great honour,” said Professor Ciulli. “This recognition is a testament to the work conducted with my research group over many years, and its relevance and impact to the development of a fundamentally new type of medicines. It is fitting that the very first drug that works via the mechanism we contributed to reveal and design for has just recently been approved by the FDA. This heralds a very bright future for the field of TPD." “We have only scratched the surface of what is possible with our science. Through our research we will continue in our mission to bring hope to patients affected by cancer, neurodegenerative diseases and a range of other illnesses.” Dr Paul Davies, Vice-Principal, Faculty of Life Sciences, said, “Election to the National Academy of Sciences is a significant honour." “This well-deserved recognition reflects Professor Ciulli’s outstanding contributions to TPD and reinforces the University of Dundee’s esteemed global reputation in research and innovation. His insight and leadership will continue to inspire impactful discoveries that benefit both our academic community and society at large.” Professor Andrew Morris CBE FRSE PMedSci, President of the Academy of Medical Sciences, said, “It is a privilege to welcome this outstanding new cohort to the Fellowship of the Academy of Medical Sciences. Each of our new Fellows has been recognised by their peers for exceptional achievement for the influence their work has had in advancing medical science and improving health.” Professor Ciulli and the other new Fellows will be formally admitted to the Academy at a ceremony on Tuesday 30 June.

In this year’s Equity Gilt Study, Barclays Research examines how physical AI will move beyond the digital realm and into the real economy, with humanoid robots set to reshape productivity, labour markets, geopolitics, and long-term asset returns. While equities delivered strong real returns in 2025, the report argues that the more important shift is structural, marked by higher capital investment, rising productivity, and a repricing of growth, inflation, and capital across regions and asset classes. At the centre of this shift is the emergence of humanoid robots. Ajay Rajadhyaksha, Global Chairman of Research commented: “Humanoid robots represent the next frontier of AI, combining intelligence with physical capability. Their effect could extend well beyond technology, reshaping the structure of the global economy.” Humanoid robots: the next frontier of automation Automation is entering its third phase, according to Barclays Research analysts. Humanoid robots, enabled by advances in artificial intelligence, mobility, and battery systems, are designed to operate in human environments; use existing tools; and perform full jobs, rather than isolated tasks. As the costs of producing the robots decline and deployment accelerates, Barclays Research estimates the market for humanoids could reach $200 billion by 2035, reshaping labour supply, productivity, and investment opportunities across the global economy. China leads in robotics Barclays Research analysts find that China is already the centre of gravity for the global robotics economy. Supported by unmatched scale in manufacturing, deep supply chains, and state-backed industrial policy, China accounted for 85 percent of humanoid deployments in 2025 and controls many of the critical inputs needed to scale the technology. If current trends persist, Barclays Research estimates that robots could fill up to 60 percent of the workforce gap created by China’s aging population by 2035, helping sustain economic growth and reinforcing robotics as a key pillar of its economic and geopolitical strength. How robotics will rewire economies Automation has long supported productivity growth, but its effect has largely been limited to specific tasks. Barclays Research analysts argue that humanoid robots extend automation not just to entire roles, but to those that until now could not be automated. Historically, strong productivity gains in sectors such as manufacturing coincided with a declining share of GDP, while more labour-intensive sectors expanded, a pattern known as the Baumol effect. By increasing the substitutability between labour and capital in tasks that have resisted automation, humanoids could ease these constraints and help shift that dynamic. Barclays Research also notes that more than 60 percent of employment in 2018 was in roles that did not exist in 1940, suggesting humanoids are likely to reshape, rather than reduce, the future of work. Will physical AI’s displacement effects hurt asset prices? Barclays Research analysts argue that physical AI is not a zero-sum shock and that markets may be underestimating its positive effect. By expanding the production frontier, rather than simply redistributing income, humanoid robots strengthen the case for higher productivity, higher equilibrium real rates, stronger earnings growth, and improved long-term asset returns. While adoption will reshape labour income and shift sectoral winners and losers, the overall effect is likely to be positive for growth and markets. Barclays Equity Gilt Study is a flagship annual publication that combines market-leading macro analysis with a unique multi-asset dataset spanning over 100 years. It provides uniquely rich data and commentary on long-term asset returns in the UK and US. Data for the UK goes back to 1899, while the US data, provided by the Center for Research in Security Prices at the University of Chicago, runs from 1925.

Leading UK food distributor, RH Amar has celebrated the opening of its new headquarters in High Wycombe, with Dame Mary Berry joining colleagues and guests at a special lunch to mark the occasion. Dame Mary Berry unveiled a commemorative plaque to officially open the new premises and celebrate the major milestone in the family-run business’s 80-year history. Rob Amar, Managing Director of RH Amar, said: “We were honoured to welcome Dame Mary Berry to officially open our new office and distribution warehouse. We’ve known Dame Mary for more than 20 years since we started distributing her dressings brand so it made the occasion even more special to celebrate this milestone with her. It was a wonderful occasion to bring colleagues together to celebrate everything that has gone into creating our new home.” RH Amar’s new purpose-built headquarters provide increased warehouse capacity, new office space and enhanced facilities designed to support the company’s future growth ambitions. The new site includes collaborative workspaces, extensive kitchen facilities, and a social hub called Henry’s Place, named in honour of Chairman Henry Amar. The move follows a sustained period of business growth for RH Amar, with the company achieving double-digit revenue growth in each of the past five years. Photo Credit: Ben Cottman Pictured left to right: Rob Amar, Managing Director of RH Amar; Dame Mary Berry; James Amar, RH Amar Strategy & CSR Director; and Henry Amar, Chairman of RH Amar. About RH Amar RH Amar is one of the UK’s leading full-service distributors and growth partners for ambient foods - providing sales, marketing and technical support to successfully grow brands across the UK market. The company is a family-run business, founded in 1945, and now in its third generation. It retains family values at its core and treats every brand as its own. RH Amar’s brand portfolio includes some of the UK’s best-loved food brands such as Branston, Del Monte, Dunkin’, Ella’s Kitchen, Kikkoman, Mutti and Weetabix alongside smaller specialist brands. The company also owns the Camp Coffee, Cooks&Co and Mary Berry’s Dressings brands. The company donates 10% of its profits each year to charity, with more than £3m donated to charitable causes since 2013. View the RH Amar brand portfolio here.

A Shetland-based pizza business is marking its first year in operation with the opening of a new permanent premises, following support from Business Gateway that has helped it grow from a mobile venture into a thriving community-focused enterprise. The Nomadic Pizzeria, founded by Nicholas Lundy, began in April 2025 as a mobile Neapolitan-style pizza business, travelling across the islands to host pop-up events in rural community halls. Nicholas, who is originally from Northern Ireland, launched the venture to meet new people after moving to Shetland, quickly building a loyal following as he brought freshly prepared pizza to communities across the islands. A family-run business, The Nomadic Pizzeria is supported by Nicholas’ partner, Beth Hawkings, and his son, Ieuan Hawkings. Creating an opportunity for his son to gain experience of a first job was a key motivation behind starting the business, which has since grown into a wider commitment to supporting youth employment across Shetland. The team now includes six employees aged between 14 and 18, many of whom are in their first roles, with the business providing flexible opportunities for young people to develop valuable skills and confidence in the workplace. Operating on a weekly rota, Nicholas prepares dough and toppings in advance before setting up in local halls, where customers can enjoy pizzas to eat in or take away. In areas where opportunities to gather can be limited, the pop-up model has helped breathe new life into underused community spaces, bringing people together and strengthening local connections. Over the past year, the business has hosted more than 80 pop-up events, travelled nearly 9,000 miles and served over 6,000 pizzas. The Nomadic Pizzeria has also expanded into corporate catering and weddings, which have proved increasingly popular and have become an important part of its growth. This success has now led to the opening of a permanent takeaway location in Lerwick, marking a significant milestone and the next phase of growth for the business. With plans to expand the team further, the business is also working towards extending its opening hours to operate Monday to Saturday. Business Gateway adviser Jeff Gaskell has provided expert one-to-one support throughout Nicholas’ business journey, helping Nicholas establish and grow The Nomadic Pizzeria while preparing for expansion. This has included market research to inform planning, specialist support in digital commerce and copywriting to strengthen the business’s online presence, and advice on recruitment, training and premises, which helped Nicholas establish the new Lerwick location. Nicholas Lundy, owner of The Nomadic Pizzeria, said: “What started as a way to meet people and become part of the community has grown into something far bigger than I ever expected. Travelling across Shetland and hosting pop-ups in community halls has been an incredible experience, and seeing people come together over good food has been the most rewarding part." “Opening our first permanent premises in Lerwick is a huge milestone and something we’ve been working towards over the past year. Business Gateway has been there from the beginning, offering guidance, practical support and helping me plan for the next stage. From building our online presence to finding the right premises, that support has made a real difference.” Jeff Gaskell, Business Gateway adviser, said: “Nicholas had a strong idea rooted in community from the outset, and it has been fantastic to see how that has developed over the past year. By combining a flexible business model with a clear understanding of his audience, he has built something that resonates across Shetland." “Our role has been to support that growth with tailored advice, from planning and digital development to premises and recruitment. The opening of the Lerwick location is a significant step, and I look forward to seeing the business continue to grow while maintaining its strong community focus.” To find out more about how Business Gateway can help your business, visit here.

A Uttoxeter charity is urging local men to sign up for its annual free prostate cancer testing campaign which this week received funding support from digger giant JCB. The Rocester-based company, which also has three factories in Uttoxeter, donated £750 towards the charity’s annual testing event on Thursday June 4th at Oldfields Sports and Social Club. This is the 13th time Uttoxeter Lions has put on the free testing event which over the years has seen thousands of local men take up the potentially life-saving opportunity. This year there are 600 free testing slots available. The event kickstarts a weekend of fundraising celebrations on June 5th and 6th at the Party on the Pitch and Uttoxeter Beer and Cider Festival, with all proceeds going towards the £15,000 costs of the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing campaign. Uttoxeter Lions’ Vice President, Terry Adams, said: “The test is just a simple blood test that is sent off for analysis by our partner the Graham Fulford Trust. Results are presented in a traffic light format. If it comes back green that’s fine, amber is ‘be careful and consult your GP if you have any unexplained symptoms’, and red is ‘go and see your doctor for further testing’. “When I got a red result, my GP gave me a second test for confirmation, before referring me to hospital for further testing. Fortunately, my cancer is not very aggressive, so I am currently under active surveillance with my Urology consultant." "I would urge everyone over 50 to take the test, because in the early stages you may have no symptoms of prostate cancer. Each year five per cent of the men we test need further tests or treatment. Some men with aggressive cancers run risk of dying if they are not treated." “There is no government screening programme for prostate cancer and we believe that men, irrespective of their financial standing, should have access to this service. We are proud that over the years we have helped many men, who would otherwise have needed extensive treatment, major surgery, or could have died, had they not attended our event.” Any men who are over the age of 50 from Uttoxeter and the surrounding area can book an appointment by visiting here. Tests are available, between 6pm and 9-30pm on Thursday June 4th, at Oldfields Sports and Social Club, Springfield Road. Attendance is by appointment only.

The Brewers Group has been recognised as one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work for the second year running! Published in partnership with WorkL, The Sunday Times Best Places to Work celebrates the UK’s leading employers — organisations that are creating exceptional workplaces where people feel valued, supported and inspired to succeed. This recognition is based on colleague feedback, measured through WorkL’s employee engagement survey. The survey evaluates organisations across six key areas that shape a positive workplace experience: Reward and recognition. Instilling pride Information sharing Empowerment Wellbeing Job satisfaction At The Brewers Group, our people are at the heart of everything we do. From career development opportunities and wellbeing support to a welcoming, team-focused culture, we’re committed to making Brewers a place where everyone can thrive. Our Group CEO, Simon Brewer says: ‘We’re grateful to The Sunday Times for naming us as a best place to work for a second year. Our vision for The Brewers Group is clear: to play our part in making the world a brighter place. This starts with empowering our people to develop a career where they feel valued and supported.’ Many colleagues build long-term careers at The Brewers Group, developing their skills across different roles and departments while being part of a supportive and collaborative team culture. If you’re looking to build a rewarding career with a company that values its people, we’d love for you to join The Brewers Group. The Brewers Group operates through several well-known brands: Brewers Decorator Centres, Wallpaperdirect, The Paint Shed, PaintWell, Promain, Albany and The Brewers Academy.

Alan Boswell Group has been named the UK’s leading insurance broker for online visibility and reputation, according to the latest industry report from Foliume. The UK Broker Index highlights insurance brokers across the UK and assesses digital performance across five key areas: client voice, digital presence, credentials, scale, and longevity. With a total score of 81.8 - over 10 points ahead of its nearest competitor - Alan Boswell Group secured the top national ranking. This recognition reflects a sustained, business-wide effort to strengthen the firm’s online presence, alongside its long-standing reputation for client service. Lee Boswell, Marketing Director at Alan Boswell Group, said: “This is strong independent validation of the work we’ve been doing across the business. It’s not just about marketing output. It reflects how our teams engage with clients, build trust, and consistently deliver excellent service across every touchpoint.” The Foliume report draws on a wide range of data, including customer feedback, search visibility, online credentials, and overall business footprint, providing a comprehensive picture of how brokers are perceived and discovered online. For Alan Boswell Group, the result reinforces its position as one of the UK’s leading independent brokers and underlines the growing importance of digital visibility in supporting client relationships and enabling clients to choose how they want to communicate with their broker. “Online visibility now plays a critical role in how clients choose their broker,” added Boswell. “To be ranked number one in the UK shows that our approach is cutting through in an increasingly competitive market.” With over 450 personnel, the Group continues to prioritise a personal, human-led service, allowing clients to choose how to interact with them, be that online, over the phone, or in person.

Openreach and EMR, a global leader in circular materials, are urging the public to help stop metal theft by reporting suspicious activity anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers. The appeal follows a series of incidents that have caused widespread disruption and cost the UK public more than £4.3bn over the past decade. With copper prices at an all time high – and forecast to rise further in 2026 – the company’s network has become an increasingly attractive target for criminals looking for a quick profit. Recent incidents include: January 2026 - Moulton Chapel, Lincolnshire: 2,500 premises hit by a major cable theft, with residents left unable to contact hospitals to check appointments and one business owner describing it as “going back to the dark ages”. May 2026 – Birmingham: Three men jailed after stealing cables which cut off phone and broadband services for c.5,000 people. May 2026 – Wateringbury, Kent: A member of the public called police when three vehicles were used to remove cables from fields, impacting landlines for vulnerable customers in the local village. Repairs are ongoing. Andy Shepherd, Director of Resilience and Integrity at Openreach, said: “It’s really disappointing that communities across the UK are paying the price for this criminal behaviour. Cable theft causes serious damage, unacceptable disruption to communities and can put vulnerable people at risk." “We’re working closely with partners and using proactive security measures to reduce the impact of this criminal activity, but we also need the public’s help. If you see anything suspicious, please call 101 or contact Crimestoppers completely anonymously on 0800 555 111.” A spokesperson for the independent charity Crimestoppers said: “Cable theft can have a serious impact on local communities, cutting people off from essential phone and broadband services, and disrupting daily life for homes and businesses." “The recent cable theft in Kent is a clear example of why it’s so important that anyone who knows something speaks up." “If you have information about cable theft or suspicious activity around telecoms infrastructure, and don’t want to give your details to the police, the charity Crimestoppers is here for you." “Contact Crimestoppers 100% anonymously by completing a simple online form at crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling our 24/7 UK Contact Centre on 0800 555 111. By sharing what you know, you could be helping to protect vulnerable people and vital services from disruption.” EMR, a global leader in circular materials, is helping recover, process and recycle metals through its nationwide network of UK sites and specialist cable recycling facilities. Bruce Miller, Commercial Director at EMR, said: “Copper is now recognised as a critical material, with demand continuing to grow as industries invest in new networks, infrastructure and low-carbon technologies. That makes responsible recycling more important than ever." “At EMR, we play a vital role in recovering and recycling the materials needed for the future, while helping ensure they remain in legitimate circulation. Metal theft causes significant harm — disrupting communities, damaging essential infrastructure and putting public safety at risk." “As one of the UK’s largest metal recyclers, we work closely with law enforcement and partners including Openreach and Crimestoppers to prevent stolen material entering the supply chain. By working together, we can help protect critical infrastructure, support local communities and ensure valuable resources are recycled responsibly.” As part of the initiative, EMR has strengthened its commitment to tackling metal theft by installing signage across all UK sites, reinforcing its policy to refuse any material suspected of being stolen. Through responsible recycling practices and transparent material traceability, EMR continues to support higher standards across the sector while helping keep critical materials in the right hands. Metal theft isn’t a victimless crime Openreach builds and maintains the UK’s largest telecoms network and, since April 2024, more than 100,000 people across the UK have lost the use of their landline and/or broadband due to copper theft with 153 km of cable stolen in that time – spanning almost the same distance as from London to Bristol. The impact is far-reaching for consumers and businesses: from home working and online shopping, to contacting vulnerable relatives, GP surgeries, hospitals and schools, and running smart lighting and heating systems. Repairing and replacing damaged cables is often complex and time-consuming, with engineers working around the clock – alongside local authorities and partners – to restore services as quickly as possible. Since April 2024, Openreach estimates 1.2 million working hours have been diverted to repairing theft-related damage – time that could otherwise have been spent upgrading more homes and businesses to the UK’s most reliable broadband technology – Full Fibre. Network theft costs millions to repair each year, causing disruption and anxiety for local communities and damaging the UK economy. How we’re tackling the problem Since April 2025, Openreach’s specialist security team has instigated 90 arrests, but theft volumes are expected to increase during the summer months. Targeted cables are often pulled out of the ground and laid out in fields to be cut up and transported, so drier ground makes this easier to do – reducing the risk of criminals’ vehicles getting stuck in saturated fields. A knock-on impact is often damaged or destroyed crops, meaning farmers face harm to their livelihoods as well as their connectivity. To deter criminals and reduce disruption, Openreach continues to implement measures including a mix of: • Forensic marking technology such as SelectaDNA • Rapid response security measures and network alarms • Close collaboration with Police, the charity Crimestoppers and partners like EMR. More information on how to report damage to Openreach’s network is available here. About Openreach Our wholesale broadband network – the UK’s largest – supports more than 680 service providers like BT, SKY, TalkTalk, Vodafone and Zen to provide broadband, TV, phone, data and mobile services to their customers. Any company can access our network through equal pricing, terms and conditions, and our team of around 25,000 people help deliver services to every community in the UK. Right now, we’re investing £15bn to build a new ultra-reliable Full Fibre broadband network to 25 million homes and businesses by the end of 2026. Work is on track, with the company intending to go even further - to as many as 30 million premises by the end of the decade - assuming conditions for investment remain supportive. We’ve already reached 22 million premises and we’re passing thousands more every week. And we're retraining thousands of our existing engineers to help build, connect and maintain the new network. Our new network will help Openreach and its customers to dramatically cut emissions, with research suggesting nationwide Full Fibre broadband could save 400 million commuter trips every year. We're also switching our commercial fleet - the UK's second largest - to zero emissions by 2031. We’re a wholly owned and independent subsidiary of the BT Group and for the year up to the end of March 2025, we reported revenues of £6.157bn. Find out more visit here.

An Inverclyde boat tour operator is setting sail for business growth ahead of the summer tourism season with support from Business Gateway. Originally launched in July 2022, the business, formerly known as Firth of Clyde Boat Tours, has gone from strength to strength, expanding its reach through the acquisition of the established Clyde Charters brand in May 2024. The strategic move has significantly boosted bookings and visibility, with the company now operating as the only full-time charter boat service in the Inverclyde and North Ayrshire area. Owned and operated by husband-and-wife team Ed and Paula Gatti, the business offers a range of wildlife, scenic and fishing trips across the Clyde, while also working with research groups, cruise operators and tourism partners to showcase the region. Since acquiring Clyde Charters, the business has experienced a surge in demand, supported by the brand’s strong existing following and reputation. Looking ahead, the company is targeting further growth through international partnerships, including attendance at VisitScotland’s Connect 2026 event, where they met tour operators and cruise line representatives from across the globe. Ed Gatti, co-owner of Clyde Charters, said: “Purchasing Clyde Charters was a major step forward for us. It gave us instant brand recognition and opened the door to new opportunities, particularly in the international tourism market." “We’re now in a position where we’re speaking directly with global travel companies and cruise operators, which could bring significantly more visitors into Inverclyde and the wider Clyde area. It’s not just about our business, but about supporting the local economy and showcasing everything this area has to offer.” As part of its growth plans, the business is exploring the potential to introduce a second, higher-spec charter vessel, which would enable expansion into private and premium tours, as well as corporate bookings and extended trips to destinations such as Argyll and Bute. In addition to its commercial success, Clyde Charters continues to play an active role in supporting skills development and environmental initiatives. Through partnerships with local schools, it offers work experience placements to young people, helping them explore careers in the maritime sector. The business also contributes to marine research and conservation efforts on the Clyde, working alongside universities and organisations on projects including bird surveys, seal populating monitoring and environmental DNA sampling. Ed continued: “We’ve always wanted to do more than just run tours. Being involved in research and conservation is incredibly important to us, and it also helps raise awareness of the amazing wildlife we have here on the Clyde." “With the support we’ve received, we’ve been able to grow the business in a way that benefits both visitors and the local community.” Through Business Gateway, the business has accessed a range of support since launch, including start-up advice, marketing guidance and connections to wider industry opportunities. This support has played a key role in helping the company scale and diversify its offering. Niall McClure, Business Gateway adviser, said: “Firth of Clyde Boat Tours, now trading as Clyde Charters, is a fantastic example of how ambition, innovation and the right support can help a business grow and evolve." “Their expansion into new markets, commitment to community engagement and contribution to Scotland’s tourism and environmental sectors highlights the vital role that small businesses play in local economies." “Through our network of advisers, resources and connections, we’re proud to support businesses like this at every stage of their journey.” To find our more about Business Gateway, visit here.

Independent family brewer Shepherd Neame is cheering on Pub Supervisor Michaela Hill as she prepares to represent England at the FIFG FootGolf World Cup in Acapulco, Mexico next week. Michaela, who has worked at Dartford pub The Wharf since 2024, has secured sponsorship from the Faversham-based brewer for the international tournament. Currently ranked among the top three players on the England FootGolf Tour, the 26-year-old recently helped the England squad secure victory at the Four Nations tournament in Wales. She first discovered FootGolf in 2019 after entering a tournament at the last minute while supporting a friend who was playing. “I came third in my first ever tournament, which was a surprise,” she said. “I then managed to make the UK squad for the Jansen Cup, which is like our version of the Ryder Cup, held at Celtic Manor in Wales later that year.” Michaela went on to complete in the Jansen Cup in 2022 in Florida and made the England squad for the 2023 World Cup, also held in Florida. She said: “It was a surreal experience with over 100 players. I was sharing the fairways with some of the world’s best.” FootGolf combines the rules and format of golf with football, with players aiming for birdies and avoiding bogeys while kicking a football into enlarged holes across tees, fairways and greens. Michaela explained: “It’s basically golf, but you kick a football and the holes are bigger!” The tournament starts on Wednesday (May 27) with two opening rounds, followed by a cut-off and a final ranking. Michaela, who is currently undertaking a Level 3 Hospitality Supervisor Apprenticeship with Shepherd Neame, will compete in the Individual category. “I'm very excited,” she said. “Representing England is always an honour. I've never been to Mexico before, so it's going to be a new experience, adapting to the climate and course conditions. English courses are quite different in order to cope with our lovely, rainy weather!" “I'm very grateful to Shepherd Neame for their sponsorship. It’s means a lot to represent both England and the company on the world stage.” Shepherd Neame’s Head of Brands, Rose Davis, said: “We are delighted to support Michaela on her journey to Mexico to represent England in the FIFG FootGolf World Cup. We are always proud to see our team members succeeding both professionally and personally, and wish her the best of luck in the tournament.” For more information visit here.

A leading Dorset funeral group that invested heavily in two of its branches has seen its team grow to meet increasing demand from the communities it serves. Douch Family Funeral Directors has expanded the team at its two Lesley Shand branches in Corfe Mullen and Blandford. The Corfe Mullen branch was completely rebuilt in 2018 and the Blandford branch opened in 2015. Both have ceremony rooms available to local families and community groups. Emma Byron, who manages both branches, said: “We are really proud of what the Lesley Shand team has become. Five people working across two branches, supporting each other and the wider Douch Family when needed." "Our ceremony rooms are there for families arranging services but also for the wider community to use. Being rooted in these towns matters to us and we work hard to reflect that." “Our community outreach is important to us and being a long-standing family business means we really understand the communities we work in.” Nick Douch, managing director of Douch Family Funeral Directors, said: “The investment in both Lesley Shand branches has been worthwhile and it’s great to see the team grow in response to that. Being a family business we look ahead for generations, and our philosophy is one of service, transparency and doing right by the communities we serve.” Douch Family Funeral Directors operates seven branches across Dorset and offers a multi award-winning funeral plan. Photo: (l-r) Peter Short, Danielle Beechey, Emma Byron, Natalie Lanham Leanne Admini, Douch Family Funeral Directors have been helping families with funeral arrangements for over 100 years. Branches include Douch & Small, A E Jolliffe & Son, Albert Marsh, James Smith, Ives & Shand and Lesley Shand Funeral Service. They’re based in Wimborne, Ferndown, Wareham, Poole, Swanage, Blandford and Corfe Mullen.