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Furniture Village has been awarded a top 5 place in the ‘UK’s Best Large Companies to Work For’ category. Britain’s largest independent furniture retailer, Furniture Village, is proud to announce a total of three award wins at The Best Companies Awards 2023, including #4 in the ‘UK’s Best Large Companies to Work For.’ The ceremony was a black-tie event held in Battersea, London, on 2nd November 2023. Furniture Village also won the ‘Best Companies Special Award’ as the ‘Best Improver 2023’ and #1 in the ‘South West’s Best Company to Work For’ category. Last month, the family business received a 3-star accreditation in the Best Companies survey, a rating which reflects ‘world class’ levels of workplace engagement. When surveyed, 91% of Furniture Village employees agreed with the statement, ‘I love working for this organisation’ and 93% of those surveyed agreed with the statement ‘I am inspired by the people leading this organisation.’ Furniture Village first entered the Best Companies Survey in 2021, achieving a 1-star accreditation, which recognised Furniture Village as a ‘very good’ place to work. The company has continued to strive to improve this which led to the retailer achieving a 2-star accreditation in 2022, which recognised it as an ‘outstanding’ place to work. Committed to creating the best workplace for staff, Furniture Village continues to provide the best in-industry training and development programmes, as well as a family partnership profitsharing scheme. This resulted in the business achieving a 3-star ‘world class’ accreditation in 2023. Charlie Harrison, Managing Director of Furniture Village says, “We are delighted that Furniture Village has won three awards at the Best Companies Awards 2023 and has achieved the 3-star ‘world-class’ Best Companies accreditation. We were especially pleased to be recognised as one of the UK’s best large companies to work for. A combination of our unique people culture and ethos is what makes us all proud to be a part of Furniture Village’s ‘World Class Family Business.'" He added, “We cannot thank our staff members enough for their continued dedication to the business. We look forward to the future as we continue to learn, grow and achieve together.” ‘The Best Companies to Work For Lists’ have been measuring, improving and recognising great workplace engagement since 2001.

Allied Vehicles, recent recipient of the Commitment to the Community Award at the Scottish Family Business Awards, have once again supported the North West Children and Families Team in Possilpark. For the past five years, Allied Vehicles staff and the company have pledged to support through the Glasgow Spirit of Christmas campaign. This year, all 279 outstanding Christmas gifts were delivered to the Possilpark based social work team, along with an additional six bikes and helmets, to support families in need this Christmas time. The Spirit of Christmas supports underprivileged children by donating Christmas gifts to those living in hardship and poverty. Glasgow's Spirit of Christmas launched during Christmas 2014 to provide gifts for children living locally all over Glasgow and surrounding regions. The request went out to staff who were keen to help local children, and the remaining pledges were fulfilled through the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust. Diana Weir of the North West Children and Families Team said: "What a marvellous response from Allied Vehicles, who have yet again provided gifts for so many families in the Possil area. Our staff had submitted requests for support via Glasgow Spirit of Christmas in the hope of finding a match. Allied exceeded expectations by meeting all 279 of those requests and also added six bicycles, complete with safety helmets! Needless to say the bikes have found new homes and staff have also been distributing all of the gifts to the families concerned. Many parents had been worrying about providing their children with a gift this year and are so grateful for the gifts your staff have donated. Thank you so much to Allied for their generous support.’’ Allied Vehicles owner Gerry Facenna added: “The Glasgow Spirit of Christmas campaign is one we all love getting involved in. To be able to support so many children local to our Possilpark headquarters is especially important to me." "To be able to support children and families at this tough time of year is such a lovely thing to be able to do.” Allied Vehicles wanted to thank Clyde Importers in Kinning Park for their support in sourcing the gifts.

John Good Group, is pleased to announce their sponsorship agreement with the Wheelchair Football Association for the 2023/24 WFA Cup. John Good Group is purpose-led group of businesses, which put people, planet and performance at the heart of its operations. This initial one-year deal presents an exciting opportunity to further expand the reach and influence of the national cup competition, building on its growing stature and widespread popularity. The Wheelchair Football Association (WFA) govern Powerchair Football, a unique sport that provides opportunities for people with a high level of impairment to access the game of football. It is the only active participation sport for people who use electric wheelchairs. For the 23/24 season, the WFA Cup will be named the John Good Group WFA Cup. Adam Walsh, CEO of John Good Group, says “We are absolutely delighted to be sponsors of the WFA Cup. As a sport, Powerchair Football epitomises inclusivity, competition and achievement, all of which are values that resonate with us strongly here at the John Good Group. We’re looking forward to seeing the tournament get underway and to experience the drama that comes with a sporting knockout competition like the WFA Cup.” "Our involvement in the WFA Cup will showcase our commitment to promoting inclusivity and excellence." Dean Williams, WFA Chairperson said “How incredible to have the John Good Group as sponsors and partners of our prestigious cup competition for this season. A wonderful company led by great people, with values that are very much aligned with ours at the WFA. So proud to have them side by side, and we welcome them with open arms to our Powerchair Football community." This is a significant year for the tournament as they welcome a record-matching 27 teams to the competition. John Good Group are thrilled to see the tournament get underway and experience one of the most inclusive sports in the world.

Christmas shoppers in Manchester were given a surprise this morning as they spotted a giant sleigh parking space installed on top of a local Aldi store. The freshly installed parking space sports a sleigh-shaped print, and has enough space reserved for the nine trusty reindeers that pull Santa’s sleigh. Painted in bright yellow, to safely guide Santa to land from the sky in the dead of night, the eye-catching installation measures 11 metres in length and six metres in width. Special spaces are marked out for Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen, and Rudolph. It was first spotted by Jen who posted a picture of the new installation on the Aldi Shoppers UK Facebook Page, at the Knutsford store witht the comment: ‘Just spotted this at the Aldi Knutsford store, such a nice surprise when taking the kids shopping – they loved it!’ One shopper Jen Rothwell said: “I couldn’t believe my eyes this morning! As I was heading into Aldi for some early morning shopping, I spotted this magical parking spot for Santa on the roof. It’s the kind of Christmas surprise that makes you feel like a kid again!” Julie Ashfield, Managing Director of Buying at Aldi UK, said: “The Knutsford locals thought they were in for an ordinary day until they spotted the magical parking space we installed on our store’s roof." "While our middle aisle is known for surprises, this rooftop revelation was specifically crafted for Santa’s visit, aims to bring delight to our shoppers throughout the festive season.” Christmas Retailer of the Year* Aldi has installed the rooftop parking spot for Santa to bring an extra dose of festive cheer to the local community. Shoppers can head to the Aldi Knutsford store now to get their Christmas shopping and see the magic for themselves.

Leading hospitality operator Buzzworks Holdings has been recently named in The Best Companies to Work For in the UK, for the eighth year running. With 19 venues under its belt and plans for further expansion next year, the group has become renowned for its industry-leading staff benefits, ongoing training and development, career progression, flexible working, and unrivalled health and wellbeing incentives. This year’s ranking has also earned Buzzworks the “Outstanding levels of Engagement” accreditation, much to the delight of its Head of People, Nicola Watt. Nicola commented: “We are thrilled our employee feedback has ranked us in this year’s Best Companies list. Achieving the 66th position in the Top 100 Companies to Work for in the UK, 15th in Scotland, and a notable 8th in the UK Leisure and Hospitality sector is a testament to our teams’ commitment to making Buzzworks a great place to work." “It’s a significant achievement to be scored so highly and to land a place on the 100 Best Companies list for eight consecutive years. Our dedicated team have undoubtedly played a major part in this fantastic result." "We consistently prioritise the wellbeing of our team and are committed to offering our people quality learning experiences to develop their skills." "It’s encouraging that our team members also feel confident in being able to actively contribute their ideas and opinions across every facet of our business.” To win a place on the 100 Best Companies list, businesses must achieve one of the 100 highest Best Companies Index scores, based on results of an anonymous survey completed by their team members. Good leadership, a defined vision structure and pride in working for the company were all highlighted as top-scoring factors Buzzworks’ staff. Employees admitted they had great confidence in the leadership of the senior management team, and staff members felt their managers cared about how satisfied team members were in their job. Teams were also encouraged by Buzzworks’ commitment to giving something back and to be able to make a difference in the communities that they work, with staff agreeing that employees were able to pick charities they want to support. Nicola continued: “This achievement further fuels our motivation to continue fostering a workplace where our employees not only excel but also find fulfillment in their professional journey with Buzzworks.”

Boxing Day, celebrated on December 26th, is a holiday steeped in tradition and history. Although it is primarily observed in countries with British ties, such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, its origins and customs have piqued the interest of people worldwide. So let's take a look at the history, significance, and the various traditions associated with Boxing Day. The origins of Boxing Day are somewhat uncertain, but they can be traced back to medieval Europe. One popular theory is that it was a day for servants and tradesmen to receive gifts from their employers, often placed in a 'Christmas box.' Another theory suggests that it might be connected to the practice of almsgiving, with the Church distributing funds to the less fortunate in boxes. Regardless of its precise origin, Boxing Day has evolved into a beloved public holiday. Today, Boxing Day is celebrated as a day of relaxation, feasting, and merrymaking. It serves as an extension of the Christmas festivities and offers an opportunity to unwind after the hustle and bustle of Christmas Day. Many people use this day to visit friends and family, indulge in delicious leftovers, and engage in leisurely activities. In the UK, it's also a significant day for sports enthusiasts, with various football matches and horse racing events. One of the most notable aspects of Boxing Day is the massive sales and discounts offered by retailers. It has become a shopping extravaganza, with shoppers lining up outside stores before dawn to snag the best deals. Similar to Black Friday in the United States, Boxing Day sales have become a significant part of the holiday, with people eagerly awaiting the opportunity to grab discounted items. While Boxing Day is most commonly celebrated in the UK and its former colonies, its influence has spread to other parts of the world. In some countries, it is a day for acts of charity and giving back to the community. In South Africa, for instance, it is often called the 'Day of Goodwill' and people use it to support charitable causes. Boxing Day is a unique holiday that combines historical roots with modern traditions. It serves as a reminder of the spirit of generosity, relaxation, and togetherness that follows the festive season. Whether you're seeking deals at a bustling shopping mall or simply spending quality time with loved ones, Boxing Day has something to offer for everyone, making it a cherished and diverse holiday worth celebrating.

International Mountain Day is an annual observance that celebrates the invaluable role that mountains play in our lives and raises awareness about the importance of sustainable mountain development. Held on December 11 each year, this day encourages people worldwide to recognize the significance of mountains in our ecosystems, cultures, and well-being. From breath-taking landscapes to crucial resources, International Mountain Day highlights the reasons we should cherish and protect these natural wonders. Mountains cover around 22% of the Earth's land surface and host a wide array of ecosystems and species. They are the source of freshwater for billions of people, making them vital for agriculture, energy production, and numerous daily needs. Mountains also offer opportunities for recreation, tourism, and cultural heritage. They provide solace and inspiration to countless artists, adventurers, and nature enthusiasts. Some of the tallest mountains in the world serve as awe-inspiring symbols of nature's grandeur. The Himalayas, which include the mighty Mount Everest, the world's highest peak at 29,032 feet (8,849 meters), are a prime example. The Himalayas stretch across several countries, offering breath-taking vistas and a habitat for diverse wildlife. K2, the second-highest peak, resides in the Karakoram Range, part of the Himalayan mountain system, and is renowned for its challenging climbing conditions. Other towering giants include Kangchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu, each of which stands above 8,000 meters and continues to captivate mountaineers and adventurers with their formidable beauty and the challenges they present. These towering mountains are not only geographic marvels but also cultural and spiritual symbols for the people who live in their shadow, underscoring the profound importance of mountains on International Mountain Day. Mountains are special for a multitude of reasons, making them unique and invaluable features of our planet: Beautiful Landscapes : Mountains offer some of the most awe-inspiring and picturesque landscapes on Earth, featuring towering peaks, deep valleys, pristine lakes, and lush forests. They provide a sense of natural wonder and beauty that captivates people worldwide. Biodiversity Hotspots : Mountainous regions host diverse ecosystems, including unique flora and fauna adapted to their high-altitude environments. They often serve as biodiversity hotspots, housing many species found nowhere else on the planet. Water Sources : Mountains are the source of freshwater for numerous rivers and streams, providing essential water resources for billions of people. These freshwater sources are critical for agriculture, energy production, and drinking water. Cultural Significance : Mountains have deep cultural and spiritual significance for many societies around the world. They often feature prominently in folklore, myths, and religious beliefs. Mountain communities have developed unique traditions and ways of life that are tied to their environments. Outdoor Recreation : Mountains offer a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, rock climbing, skiing, and mountaineering. These activities attract adventurers and nature enthusiasts, fostering a deeper connection with the natural world. Climate Regulation : Mountains play a crucial role in regulating regional and global climates. They influence temperature patterns, precipitation, and atmospheric circulation, which has far-reaching effects on weather and climate. Scientific Research : Mountains provide opportunities for scientific research in fields such as geology, ecology, and climate science. Studying mountain environments contributes to our understanding of Earth's processes and history. Natural Resources : Mountains are often rich in valuable natural resources, including minerals, timber, and hydropower potential. Sustainable resource management is vital to preserve these ecosystems. Challenges and Resilience : Mountains present unique challenges due to their harsh conditions, but they also demonstrate nature's resilience. The species that thrive in these environments have evolved to withstand extreme cold, low oxygen levels, and steep terrain. Conservation and Sustainability : Protecting mountains and their ecosystems is crucial for the well-being of both local communities and the global environment. Sustainable mountain development is essential to ensure that the benefits of mountains are preserved for future generations. In summary, mountains are special because they are not only visually stunning but also serve as the foundation for numerous ecological, cultural, and practical aspects of our lives. Recognising and preserving these unique landscapes is essential to maintain the delicate balance of our planet's ecosystems and to appreciate their intrinsic value. Despite their immense value, mountains are under increasing threat due to various factors, including climate change, deforestation, mining, and unsustainable tourism. Rising global temperatures have led to the rapid melting of glaciers in mountain regions, disrupting water supplies for both urban and rural communities. Soil erosion, landslides, and loss of biodiversity are additional concerns caused by these environmental shifts. International Mountain Day serves as a platform to address these challenges and promote sustainable practices. It aims to: Raise Awareness : Through education and outreach, this day informs people about the importance of mountains and the urgent need for their preservation. Advocate for Sustainable Mountain Development : Governments, organisations, and individuals come together to promote responsible mountain stewardship and development. Promote Biodiversity Conservation : Efforts are made to protect mountain ecosystems and the unique species that call these regions home. Celebrate Cultural Diversity : International Mountain Day acknowledges the cultural heritage and traditions of mountain communities, fostering respect for their way of life. Encourage Responsible Tourism : Sustainable tourism practices are promoted to ensure that visitors enjoy mountainous regions while preserving their natural beauty. Individuals, communities, and organisations worldwide can participate in International Mountain Day by organising events, workshops, and educational programmes. Activities like tree planting, clean-up campaigns, and advocating for policy changes that protect mountain environments are popular ways to get involved. International Mountain Day is a reminder of the crucial role that mountains play in our lives and the urgent need to protect them. "By celebrating these majestic landscapes and taking steps toward their sustainable development, we can ensure that future generations continue to benefit from the resources, beauty, and inspiration that mountains provide."

Sheffield Hallam University has been awarded two of the most prestigious prizes in the higher education world – collecting the honours at the Times Higher Education Awards 2023 . Widely recognised as the ‘Oscars of higher education’, the awards celebrate the talent, dedication and innovation of individuals and teams across all aspects of university life. Sheffield Hallam won awards for ‘International Collaboration of the Year’, and for Marketing & Communications Team of the Year’. International Collaboration of the Year The University won the International Collaboration of the Year category for its work with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) on a security platform that has been used to keep UN agency staff safe in some of the world’s most volatile environments, including the current conflict in Ukraine. The Security Communications and Analysis Network (SCAAN) is a world-leading security platform, used by more than 30,000 staff across six United Nations (UN) agencies working in over 175 countries to enhance staff security. Developed in partnership by Sheffield Hallam University’s Centre of Excellence in Terrorism, Resilience, Intelligence and Organised Crime (CENTRIC) and IOM, SCAAN uses innovative technology that provides real time alerts for staff on the ground and allows them to report back and signal for help if they are at personal risk. SCAAN has been used around the world in various critical environments, including: during the World Health Organization’s response to Ebola (2017-18); to support convoy movements in Ukraine (2022); and, more recently, supporting humanitarian interventions following the Turkey-Syria earthquake and staff evacuations during the Sudan crisis (2023). Professor Babak Akhgar OBE, director of CENTRIC, said: “It is a huge honour to be recognised by the sector for our work on SCAAN. CENTRIC is one of the most advanced research centres of its kind in the world. The fact that we are able to collaborate with global partners like IOM and apply our work to real-world conflicts is not only rewarding, but also hugely important in a time of escalating geopolitical uncertainty. Technologies like SCAAN play an indispensable role in keeping people safe.” Luc Vandamme, Director of the Office of Staff Security at IOM, said: "SCAAN exemplifies the impact that cross-sector collaboration can have in creating solutions that address real-world issues and provide tangible support to UN staff working in high-risk contexts." Sheffield Hallam University Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Chris Husbands said: “I’m delighted Sheffield Hallam has been recognised for our work on SCAAN, which is a hugely important international project. At a time when international security looks especially fragile, research projects like this one offer tangible solutions to complex problems." “To win two of the most prestigious awards in our sector is a testament to the talent and dedication of our staff and students. Sheffield Hallam’s vision is to be the world’s leading applied university, and this is an excellent example of applied research in action, having a positive impact on society. We are also a University of place, and the ‘Sheffield. Your University City’ campaign goes to show how our region is at the heart of everything we do.” Outstanding Marketing/Communications Team of the Year Sheffield Hallam University also collaborated with the University of Sheffield to win the Outstanding Marketing/Communications Team of the Year category for their joint campaign Sheffield. Your University City. The two universities worked alongside Marketing Sheffield, part of Sheffield City Council, to develop a sector-first campaign to celebrate Sheffield as a great student city, promoting it as a destination for prospective undergraduate students. The project exceeded targets and has paved the way for further collaboration around student marketing. Sheffield. Your University City not only highlights the academic opportunities which the Steel City offers, but also profiles how prospective students can expect to live and work in one of the UK’s most affordable and economically vibrant cities. Jacqui Robinson, Director of Communications and Marketing at Sheffield Hallam University, said: “Anyone who has spent time in Sheffield knows how welcoming it is, and how important our universities are to the region. Thanks to this campaign, we have been able to highlight how Sheffield is a great place to study, live and ultimately to start a career – it has been a great success for us, and for our city." “This project was built on trust, compromise, respect and openness, and that is why it was such a success for both universities. Not only have we shown people around the country – and indeed around the world – the fantastic student experience we offer, we’ve also demonstrated how we collaborate with our partners locally to deliver impactful results for the region.” Dan Barcroft, Director of Student Recruitment at the University of Sheffield, said: "We are incredibly proud that our innovative and collaborative campaign with our partners has been recognised by this award. Our marketing teams have shown that true partnership to raise the profile of the city amongst prospective students can be really effective." "Sheffield is such a special and unique city compared to many others in the UK, which is why so many of our students choose to make it their permanent home after graduating. Being able to share what Sheffield has to offer with a wide audience through our campaign has been fantastic."

Head coach Nathan Smith makes five changes to his Loughborough Lightning starting line-up this weekend, with an all-star trio of Helena Rowland, Bulou Mataitoga and Sadia Kabeya returning to action and a home debut in store for Kathryn Treder. Lightning face off against Bristol Bears on Saturday (kick-off: 2pm) in their first league clash on home soil at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens this term, following away fixtures at Saracens and Leicester Tigers which sandwiched a bye in Round 2. Smith’s side sit sixth in the Allianz Premiership Women’s Rugby standings after a 24-12 victory over East Midlands rivals Tigers last Sunday, and will look to leapfrog the Bears with a win this week – both sides sit level on points currently, with Bristol edging Loughborough into the bottom half of the table on points difference. Lightning have won seven of the 12 league meetings between the sides so far, with one clash draw, but it was the Bears who scooped a season’s double of victories last term and Smith is hoping his side can turn those results on their head on Saturday. Smith said: “We were really happy with the win last weekend, and to get the five points – but more so happy with the way that we did it, as we found a way to get ourselves back into the game after dropping off a little at the start of the second half." “Bristol had a great start to the season against Sale Sharks, and then two tough fixtures with Exeter away and Gloucester at home. They are two really good sides, and we know that this weekend Bristol are going to want a reaction, as they are probably not where they want to be after a couple of defeats." “We are just going to keep doing what we have been doing over the last few weeks. There is no secret formula, you have just got to keep working on your principles, and keep working on bits of your game that’s going to keep you moving forward.” There’s two changes to the Lightning back-line on Saturday, with England international Rowland back at outside centre after a rest last weekend. The 24-year-old joins Carmela Morrall in the hosts’ midfield, while USA international Mataitoga lines up on the wing for her first Loughborough appearance of the season, with vice-captain Georgina Tasker and fullback Chloe Rollie completing the back three. Helen Nelson and Megan Davey are selected together again in the half-back berths, and continue their partnership for the third straight match. Treder celebrates her first start and a home debut in Lightning colours, packing down at hooker with Katie Trevarthen and Christine Belisle either side of her in the front row. Kabeya returns from injury to start at openside flanker, with captain Rachel Malcolm shifting into the No.8 jersey and fellow Scotland international Emma Wassell remaining at blindside flanker. The only other change to Loughborough’s forward pack sees Abby Duguid replace the injured Catherine O’Donnell and join Lili Ives Campion in the engine room for the hosts, with the likes of Maja Meuller (scorer of two tries last weekend), Daisy Hibbert-Jones and Emma Hardy hoping to make an impact off the bench – plus there is a return to action for Hallie Taufoou, who makes her first appearance since May 2022 after re-signing for the Club. Smith added: “We’re really excited to get back to cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens in front of our own fans, but we also understand the responsibility that playing on that pitch represents." “We’re all really bought into making the Gardens our home moving forwards, and this weekend presents us with another opportunity to do that.” LOUGHBOROUGH LIGHTNING vs BRISTOL BEARS Allianz Premiership Women’s Rugby, Round 4 Saturday 9 December 2023 cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens Kick-off: 2pm 15 Chloe Rollie 14 Georgina Tasker (vc) 13 Helena Rowland 12 Carmela Morrall 11 Bulou Mataitoga 10 Helen Nelson 9 Megan Davey 1 Katie Trevarthen 2 Kathryn Treder 3 Christine Belisle 4 Lili Ives Campion 5 Abby Duguid 6 Emma Wassell 7 Sadia Kabeya 8 Rachel Malcolm (c) Replacements: 16 Maja Meuller 17 Isla Curphey 18 Grace Clifford 19 Daisy Hibbert-Jones 20 Hallie Taufoou 21 Jess Weaver 22 Emma Hardy 23 Carys Williams-Morris For the first time, all of Loughborough’s home league matches will be played at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens this season.

Scottish butchery business, We hae meat, has solidified its position as an industry leader picking up two awards at The Herald Scottish Family Business Awards 2023. Based in the heart of Ayrshire, We hae meat secured Green Family Business of the Year and Scottish Family Business of the Year (Small/Medium). Judges praised We hae meat’s commitment to sustainable practices and predicted a strong year ahead for the family run business. Through energy efficient measures including installing LEDs, a wastewater treatment system, transitioning to hybrid plug-in vans, implementing greener packaging and investing in a CHP plant and solar panels We hae meat successfully reduced their carbon emissions by 110%. This success follows We hae meat’s recent ascent to number 17 in the ranking of Scottish take-home food and drink brands. Earlier this year, the company was recognised as one of Scotland’s top-10 fastest-growing food brands by Kantar. Founded in 2007 by husband and wife Alex and Carlyn Paton, We hae meat produces high quality meat products made at its farm and factory located in Girvan. Carlyn Paton, Co-Founder We hae meat, said: “It is an honour to receive this recognition. These awards are a testament to the efforts of our dedicated team and serve as a fantastic acknowledgement of our commitment to excellence and sustainability initiatives, which are at the core of our business." “It especially means a lot to us to be recognised among the best of Scotland’s family run businesses. We are proud to work together to produce products families are proud to put on their table.” We hae meat’s product range is available in major grocery retailers across Scotland including Aldi, Morrisons, Tesco, Asda and Co-Op

Kevin Souster has been appointed as head of service at Hendy Group and joins the senior leadership team at the automotive group. Kevin joins Hendy after working at the Renault Group for the last 16 years having held various roles in both sales and aftersales, most recently as its head of network, aftersales. His whole career has been in motoring having started as an apprentice technician, spending time working as a technical training consultant for both the Volkswagen Group and Volvo prior to joining Renault. In his new role, Kevin will be working closely with Pete Walker, director service and body shop on implementing the group’s service strategy. “Kevin has an incredible breadth of experience working in aftersales and having known Kevin for a number of years in his time at Renault we knew that he was the right person to join us in this role,” said Pete. “Kevin will be working across the group, with the divisional performance manager and the senior leadership team as Hendy continues to expand.” As head of service Kevin will be focusing on the commercial results of the division together with the customer experience. “These are totally interlinked, and I’ll be working with the teams for the long-term benefit of both our customers and the business,” said Kevin. He said the group’s progressive thinking and ambitions for continued growth were a key attraction in making the move. “I’ve known the team at Hendy for some time and this was such a good opportunity for me to take on a new challenge and work with some incredible people,” added Kevin.

A new regional chairman has been elected by R3, the UK trade body for professionals involved in restructuring and insolvency work for organisations and individuals. Neil Stewart, Regional Associate Director at insolvency litigation financing company Manolete Partners, becomes chairman of R3’s Southern and Thames Valley region. He takes over the helm from Garry Lee, Associate Director in the recovery and restructuring services department at professional services group Evelyn Partners’ Southampton office. R3 is the trade association for the UK’s insolvency, restructuring, advisory, and turnaround professionals and its Southern & Thames Valley region includes Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, Wiltshire and Berkshire. Garry, who held the position for three years, handed over the chains of office to Neil, who was previously vice-chairman, at the organisation’s regional annual general meeting held at Mountbatten House in Southampton. Simon Campbell, a managing director of business advisory firm Quantuma, was appointed the new vice-chair. Based near Salisbury, Neil is a regional associate director of Manolete Partners Plc, a London-headquartered specialist insolvency litigation financing company which funds and buys insolvency claims and works with insolvency practitioners and their lawyers to maximise returns to creditors. Neil, whose specialisms also include corporate and personal insolvency, qualified as a solicitor in 1998 after a varied career. He has higher rights of audience and is an accredited mediator. He has lectured widely on insolvency matters and has extensive experience of working on complex, frequently multi-party litigation. Neil said: “I am honoured to have been elected as R3 regional chairman and I intend to continue the excellent work carried out by my predecessor Garry in striving to help members and businesses across the region." “At this time of economic uncertainty, following a series of national and international crises, many businesses across the south are continuing to face extreme difficulty and the work of the restructuring, turnaround and insolvency profession in delivering advice and potential solutions is more vital than ever." “As a trade body, we are here to bring the profession together, offer examples of best practice, promote discussion, be an influential regional and national voice, and support our members to use their skills to rescue businesses and jobs." “On a personal level, I am able to bring to the role my varied management experience, as well as my understanding of the profession from two decades in legal practice, before joining Manolete nearly five years ago." “Something frequently mentioned by colleagues is my ability to organise events and manage teams effectively, which I put down to dogged determination, rather than any particular skills." “I very much look forward to working with my new STV regional committee of highly able individuals who together have a wealth of experience.” Caroline Sumner, R3 Chief Executive Officer, said: “Neil’s extensive knowledge of the Southern and Thames Valley region, coupled with his long-standing work on a number of our standing committees, and his sterling track record of organising events and conferences – including this year’s superb Southern Forum – will be a huge asset to us, to him, and to the region during his term of office." “I have no doubt he will be an excellent Chairman and look forward to working with him to support our members and ensure that businesses and individuals in the Southern and Thames Valley area understand the benefits of engaging with the profession as early as possible.”