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Innovative men’s healthcare brand Sons, has closed a €6.75 million investment to continue its mission to inspire men to prioritise their health, making treatments like hair loss more accessible and socially accepted. Led by The Davy EIIS Fund and a consortium of private investors, supported by Wayflyer and AIB, the new funding positions Sons for unprecedented growth and solidifies its commitment to becoming the number one men’s healthcare brand in Europe. The investment will help to propel Sons toward its ambitious goals, including doubling business growth every year since launch, securing the number one retail category position in the UK and Ireland, scaling operations in Germany with recent pharma license approval, and entering a fourth European market. Sons’ founders Will Kennedy and Dr. Adrian Gilbane, driven by their personal experiences with hair loss, disrupted the industry in 2020 by challenging traditional in-clinic models. Operating in the healthcare sector with a modern lifestyle brand ethos, Sons is set to reshape men's hair loss solutions with easy-to-use and effective treatments for hair loss plans that challenge norms, encouraging men to prioritise their health and reshaping the arenas of hair loss and other stigmatised conditions like dandruff. A percentage of every sale supports the mental health charity CALM, and Sons' products are 100% carbon neutral. The subscription-based company has treated over 100,000 men across Ireland, the UK, and Germany and records a monthly revenue of over €1 million. With a 5% market share in the UK and Irish Markets, it expanded its presence through retail partnerships and distribution channels this year, including Superdrug listings. Will Kennedy, Co-founder & CEO of Sons, said: "The men’s health and personal care market has a long way to go in terms of being socially accepted and normalised, and the journey is just starting for us. We are committed to challenging norms and encouraging men to prioritise their health." Medical Director, Dr Knut Moe said: "Hair loss has become more topical in recent years, with more men looking for treatments to maintain and even regrow their hair. Sons is licensed for two of the most effective medical treatments for male pattern hair loss and with the introduction of every new product, we are challenging the possibilities of what can be achieved.” Sinead Heaney, Director BES Management DAC, the Manager of the Davy EIIS Fund and Partner at BDO Ireland, said: “We are delighted to be supporting Sons' ambitious growth plans. We have been hugely impressed by Will, Adrian, and the wider team and the success achieved to date. We look forward to assisting them to further grow and internationalise the business.”

The recent announcement of the Premier League selling its UK broadcast rights for a staggering £6.7 billion has sent ripples through the sports and business world. The Premier League, Europe’s most lucrative sports franchise, has cemented its position by selling four years of UK broadcast rights mostly to Sky Sports and TNT Sports. This deal, a 4% increase from the previous cycle, showcases the ever-growing value of sports media rights. The latest Brand Finance research found that football is followed by 45% of the population of the UK, well ahead of tennis in 2nd (22%) and Formula 1 in 3rd (20%). Hugo Hensley, Head of Sports Services at Brand Finance, commented on this monumental deal, highlighting its profound impact on sports and business brands globally: "Brand Finance’s football fan research shows that the English Premier League is also the most popular competition behind the national top tier in Spain, Germany, France, Italy, China, Brazil and the USA. This deal signifies the Premier League's dominance in the sports world and demonstrates the value of powerful brands in sport.” “This deal is a testament to the appeal of live sports as a key driver for brand growth and consumer engagement. It's a clear signal to brands and businesses of the value of associating with top-tier sports properties since the greater TV coverage included in this deal will likely lead to higher brand awareness for sponsors.” Comcast Corp’s Sky secured rights for at least 215 live matches, while TNT Sports acquired rights to 52 matches, including the coveted Saturday afternoon games. The absence of Amazon.com and other online streaming services from the winning bid underscores the competitive and selective nature of sports media rights acquisition. The Premier League has managed to increase the number of games available significantly, a move that has been hailed as a strategic win for the league and its partners. The deal will help to reinforce Sky’s brand position as the premier destination for sports fans in the UK. This record deal comes at a time when the market for premium sports rights in Europe faces challenges, with deals in Italy and France not reaching similar heights. Live sports remains a signature audience attraction at a time of atomised audiences, and enables advertisers to build mass brands through association with marquee events like the UK Premier League. In conclusion, Hensley said: “The landscape of sports broadcasting is evolving, and this deal is a harbinger of the dynamic interplay between sports franchises and business brands. It’s an exciting time for those involved in sports marketing and brand strategy.”

Southampton-based Zappie , co-founded by Jamie Pidgley, reached nearly £2m turnover within just 12 months of starting up. On the back of national growth, the business telecoms specialist now employs 16 people and is on track to double that by next summer, with eight telesales hires already scheduled for February. Jamie, Managing Director, launched the enterprise with Mike Connolly, Commercial Director, focusing on helping businesses excel in their communications strategy. Sectors making install orders include automotive, call centres, dentistry, property agencies, care homes and the medical industry, including GP surgeries. “It’s been full-on due to commercial demand, with 18-hour working days,” said Jamie. “We knew that the demand was there, providing businesses with everything they need for reliable and efficient communications, but none of us quite realised how quickly we’d expand." “Business phone systems and lightning-fast broadband are an operational must for most companies and organisations, with upgrades a necessity as phone technology evolves at pace against a backdrop of hybrid and remote working where desktop, laptop, mobile and tablet must be seamlessly integrated.” Zappie has experienced exceptional growth in a UK telecoms industry which generated nearly £32 billion last year, with a forecasted 65 million people - 95% of the population - using smartphones by 2025 for business and/or personal use. Jamie, who lives near Southampton and previously worked for a telecoms company, added: “Given these market dynamics, with more of us using smartphones and handsets for business than ever before, Zappie is well positioned to deliver what companies and organisations need." “I invested £63,000 of my own money in the start-up a year ago. With the support of customers, staff and Mike, we reached a turnover of nearly £2m within the first 12 trading months, which far exceeded our expectations as we’d originally planned £660,000." “As a result of organic growth, 16 jobs have been created already and we are on track to double that by next summer, with eight telesales hires inked in for next February." “Based on data, and with 180 business customers on board, Zappie would appear to be the fastest growing telecoms provider in the UK, which we are all incredibly proud to be a part of." “One of the many things we are passionate about is exemplary after-care following switchovers – customer service is at the heart of everything we do, ensuring reliable and efficient communications.” The company has also seen demand for CCTV solutions, with customers looking to protect staff, property and assets with high-definition video surveillance technology linked to mobiles and desktops 24/7. Zappie’s sales team works from Head Space’s office suites at Grosvenor House, 2 Grosvenor Square, Southampton, with operations across the road at Clockwise Southampton’s Mountbatten House.

A real-life invisibility cloak, a London-to-Sydney flight in 3 hours, manufacturing in zero-gravity space, and worm-like robotics for disaster recovery, these are just some of the 50 emerging technologies that could shape our future. The 50 Emerging Technologies report from Innovate UK – the UK’s innovation agency – brings together the most exciting new technological breakthroughs that could be part of our everyday lives. All of the technologies, from tiny nano-materials, to quantum computing, and brain-machine interfaces that allow you to control machines with your mind, are in development right now. While only in their infancy, they’re described in the report as having major potential to transform our lives. The report is designed to inspire innovative businesses to consider how these technologies, or combinations of them, could become the commercial products of the future. The technologies identified underpin the importance of the Government’s 5 key technology areas, and the potential for these to address global challenges and drive UK economic growth in the process. The technologies reported on are compiled in seven groups, all of which are important to the UK economy: AI, digital and computing Advanced materials and manufacturing Electronics, photonics and quantum Energy and environmental Biotechnology Health and medical Robotics and space. Indro Mukerjee, Chief Executive Officer of Innovate UK, said, “Innovate UK works to support economic and productivity growth through supporting innovative businesses. We also work to help catalyse, connect, and stimulate ideas - and that work is at the heart of this Innovate UK 50 Emerging Technologies report. This report and our horizon scanning work are aimed at stimulating discussion and, directly or indirectly, future innovation which leads to skilled jobs and future economic growth.” Head of Horizon Scanning at Innovate UK and report author, Simone Boekelaar, explains: "As we enter an era of unprecedented technological change, our new report offers a glimpse into a future where the impossible becomes possible. From anti-ageing drugs to sustainable energy solutions, these technologies could change everything, and we are excited to see the impact they will have on society in the years to come." “Take Brain Machine Interface (BMI) technologies for example. The premise is that if you can connect the brain with a computer or machine, you can translate thoughts into commands that can control external software or hardware, such as a computer or robotic arm. Advanced BMI technologies are being trialled in prosthetics for people with motor or sensory impairments. They could allow people who are paraplegic or quadriplegic to regain limb control. Those missing limbs could have direct control – from brain to device – of their prosthetics." “Meanwhile with our energy bills at record levels, could room temperature superconductors provide the answer to lower electricity prices? Current superconductor technology requires very high pressures or very cold temperatures to work. Discovery of new superconductors working in normal conditions could allow zero-waste, low-cost electricity production, radically changing the economics of the energy market.” Read the full report to find out about 50 emerging technologies that will shape our future here . The 50 Emerging Technologies AI, digital and computing: AI emotion and expression recognition Artificial general intelligence (AGI) Biologically inspired AI Brain machine interface (BMI) technologies Quantum algorithms DNA data storage New computing models Novel immersive interfaces. Advanced Materials and Manufacturing: 4D printing Biomimetic materials Nanoparticle manufacturing Metamaterials. Electronics, Photonics and Quantum Technologies: Alternative and novel semiconductor systems Emerging microscopy techniques Hyperspectral imaging Millimetre wave and terahertz technologies Photon generators Plasmonics Post-quantum cryptography Room temperature superconductors. Energy and Environmental Technologies: Cross-linked polymer recycling Gridscale wireless energy transmission and charging Hypersonics Novel propulsion or ion-based propulsion Novel hydrogen production and storage technologies Novel negative emissions technologies Nuclear fusion Space-based solar power. Biotechnology: Artificial cells and artificial life Bacteria and microbe manufacturing Biocatalytic membranes Bioelectronics and electroceuticals Hybrid microbe biotechnology Programmable cells Biofabrication in tissue engineering. Health and Medical Technology: Adult stem cell generation Fluxomics Anti-ageing drugs Antibiotic replacements Microbiome therapeutics Personalised RNA therapeutics Phased genome assembly tools Sensation detection implants Whole body-on-a-chip device Robotics and Space Technologies: Fully autonomous vehicles Nanoscale robotics Robotic off-world manufacture Soft robotics Space nuclear power and novel space propulsion systems Very low earth orbit (VLEO) satellites.

Christian charity, Stewardship, today announces Janie Oliver as its new CEO. Janie, currently CFO at Stewardship, will take over from outgoing CEO Stewart McCulloch when he moves to debt help charity Christians Against Poverty (CAP) at the start of 2024. Janie joined Stewardship as CFO in February 2021 having previously served as Executive Director for JustMoney Movement (formerly the Ecumenical Council for Corporate Responsibility). Janie also spent four years as Director of Finance and Operations for Access - The Foundation for Social Investment, pioneering their total-impact investment approach of their £60m endowment. This included a period as Acting CEO. Prior to moving into the charity sector, Janie held various senior roles with Barclays. Her voluntary experience includes three trusteeships. Janie takes the Stewardship helm at a moment of strong growth and pivotal change. Under Stewart’s leadership over the last five years, Christian giving with Stewardship has grown by 40%. In 2022, donations increased year on year by 10% to just under £110m and grants to churches and charities by 14% to £82.6m. A significant achievement for Janie as CFO has been the introduction of a new ‘Bull’s Eye’ investment strategy which prioritises Tier 1 investments in organisations focused on Christian ministry and Tier 2 ones in areas that support under-served communities and are aligned to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Since this strategy was launched in November 2021, investments in these two areas have doubled to over £40m. Janie has spent the last year leading on the development of a new three-year strategy for Stewardship, designed to build on Stewardship’s core strengths for future growth and innovation in its donor, church and charity services. Delivering that strategy will now be her first priority as the new CEO. The Stewardship Trustees were keen to make an internal appointment to ensure continuity in the strategy process. While the strength of the Leadership Team meant they had a very high-quality selection of candidates, it was Janie’s track record as a dynamic leader and a pioneer in social impact investment, together with her solid corporate experience across Finance and Operations, that secured her appointment. Janie is also Stewardship’s first female CEO. “Stewardship has been through a period of significant transformation and growth under Stewart’s leadership. I look forward to ushering Stewardship into a new phase of growth and innovation to release more generosity to more church and charitable causes and help them steward their resources for maximum impact,” adds Janie Oliver, CEO of Stewardship from 1 January 2024. Stewart McCulloch, CEO until 31 December 2023 adds; “I am delighted to be passing the baton to Janie who has already delivered so much for Stewardship strategically, spiritually, and culturally. Milestone achievements include doubling the amount we invest in high social impact areas, in line with the new ‘Bull’s Eye’ investment strategy Janie introduced, and a 60% growth in our church lending since 2021. Janie’s engaging leadership style and broad experience, combined with her agile, visionary approach put her in an excellent position to deliver our new strategy and I look forward to seeing Stewardship flourish under her leadership as I move to Christians Against Poverty.” “Stewardship’s Trustees favoured an internal appointment to ensure a smooth transition for the delivery of our new strategy. Janie’s extremely valuable and relevant experience, including her confident leadership of the new strategy process this year, mean she is well equipped to lead Stewardship both operationally and spiritually. Together with the rest of Stewardship’s Trustees, I very much look forward to supporting her as she steps up to lead on the delivery of our new strategy,” concludes Chris Gillies, Chair of Trustees at Stewardship.

SMEs are being urged to be bold and make decisions amid predictions of global economic uncertainty in 2024. Leading business advisory The Alternative Board (TAB) believes UK SMEs can continue to deliver strong results if they don’t allow themselves to be distracted by geopolitical unrest and an expected change of government next year. “A wait and see approach simply isn’t going to be good enough during a hardening market,” commented Ed Reid, MD of TAB (UK). “Every business owner in the UK established their company because they have entrepreneurial acumen. My message to them is simple, remember that early drive and use it to make bold decisions in 2024. Keep an eye on external forces but don’t slow down or delay decisions. By being active and ambitious and setting achievable targets for the calendar year business leaders can achieve whatever they set their minds to in 2024." Ed continued, “Standing out from the crowd will also be key, delivering great service and concentrating on what you are good at, to attract and maintain your customers and clients. The old adage - that it’s easier to retain than to recruit new customers, continues to stand true and should be a continuous process within any business." “Since the pandemic we have become more remote, choosing virtual connection over being face to face, this has its place, but people buy from people. So, in 2024 make it your aim to get in front of a potential client or customer, how often does the boss contact a client, check in, you may not realise just how valuable that interaction can be." Working with business owners across the UK, the rigour of TAB’s advisory services ensure SME leaders set targets, make decisions and are held accountable every month to their peers via private peer board meetings. “Never underestimate the value of your peers,” adds Ed. “TAB members gain so much support, advice and insight from spending time with likeminded entrepreneurs. It’s very easy as a business owner to avoid big decisions because the buck stops with you. TAB supports leaders by ensuring big decisions are discussed and acted upon.” It’s a strategy that has been hugely successful for TAB which has supported over 1,500 SMEs across the UK. Revenue growth of companies working with TAB between 2020 and 2021 averaged an impressive 28.4 per cent and 80 per cent of TAB members report their turnover had increased since joining TAB. “The best thing business leaders can do in 2024 is believe and invest in themselves,” concluded Ed. “If you are not confident to do that, then consider spending time with other local business owners. Our members thrive on the professional and personal support they receive from local peers and that alone can have a huge impact on the psyche of business leaders in a tough market.” TAB is the world’s largest franchise system providing peer advisory boards and business coaching for business owners. Across the UK over 1,500 SME business owners have benefited from TAB. Revenue growth of companies working with TAB between 2020 and 2021 averaged an impressive 28.4 per cent with 80 per cent reporting their turnover had increased since joining TAB.

St Austell’s brewing director, Georgina Young, has been handed not one but two prestigious awards for her continued dedication to the beer industry. Georgina, who joined St Austell Brewery in 2019 after leaving her role as Head Brewer at Fuller’s took away the Brewer of the Year award at this year’s Guild of Beer Writer awards as well as receiving a Lifetime Achievement award at the Brewer’s Congress in October. Georgina was the first up to receive her award for the Brewer of the Year category - she was one of six brewers shortlisted. Georgina commented: “I am absolutely made up by this award. I couldn’t do any of this without my great team and everyone at the brewery. We work for an amazing business.” Georgina’s win was preceded by the Lifetime Achievement award presented to her at the Brewer’s Congress earlier this year. The award recognises a brewer who has shaped the industry, supported others around them and strengthened the UK brewing scene. The award was even more special for Georgina, as it was named in honour of St Austell’s late head brewer, Roger Ryman – Georgina’s good friend and mentor. On receiving her Lifetime Achievement award, Georgina added: “It’s a huge honour to have won the award, and it’s the perfect homage to Roger." “The brewing industry is really special, so it’s wonderful to be recognised. I’ve had huge support during my career, from Fuller’s and John Keeling as well as everyone at St Austell.” Georgina’s passion for brewing started during her student years at King’s College London. She studied biotechnology at undergraduate level, before completing a Master’s degree in Brewing and Distilling at Heriot Watt University, Edinburgh. Georgina’s career began in her hometown of Bristol, at Smiles Brewery, where she learnt from the floor upwards - starting in the lab before progressing to shift brewing. She then moved to Brewing Research International (now Camden BRI) to run the pilot brewing facilities. In 1999, Georgina joined Fuller’s as a production brewer under the wing of brewing director, John Keeling. During her time at Fuller’s she installed a new tank farm to increase fermentation capacity, beers such as Gales HSB and Prize Old Ale, and developed new beers such as Honeydew as well as a selection of seasonals. Following Georgina’s second maternity leave, she took a break from brewing and became a Science teacher at a comprehensive school in Richmond, Surrey where she stayed for four years. It was not long before the draw of Fuller’s brought her back to the Griffin Brewery and in October 2013, Georgina rejoined the company as brewing and packaging manager. When Fuller’s acquired Dark Star brewery she transited the brewing of Hophead pale ale to Chiswick. She was promoted to head brewer in 2017 and was the first woman in Fuller’s history to take on the role. In May 2019, Georgina joined St Austell Family Group as head brewer for Hare Brewery, optimising the new brewing and bottling facilities which had been installed the year before. Fermentation capacity increased to 50K barrels by the end of 2019, with the installation of further kit. Georgina introduced a second shift and went on to install a new kegger and robotic palletiser. Following the untimely passing of her long-time friend Roger Ryman, who had led brewing operations at St Austell since 1999, Georgina was promoted to brewing director in July 2020. She now oversees brewing at both Hare Brewery and St Austell Brewery. Since taking on this enlarged role, she has successfully commissioned a new canning line and launched a new permanent cask beer – Anthem British pale ale. Georgina has been Chairman of the Southern Section of the IBD, is currently a Director at Cask Marque and a member of the Worshipful Company of Brewers.

As the holiday season approaches, two distinct yet intertwined symbols emerge to adorn homes and hearts alike: holly and ivy. These timeless plants have been cherished as staples of Christmas decor and tradition for centuries, each carrying its own symbolic significance. Holly, with its glossy green leaves and vibrant red berries, stands as a representation of enduring life in the midst of winter's harsh grasp. The prickly leaves remind us of the crown of thorns, and the red berries symbolise the blood of Christ, invoking a sense of sacrifice and redemption. Its evergreen nature symbolises hope, a promise of renewal and the return of spring. The use of holly dates back to ancient Druid and Roman festivities, eventually finding its way into Christian Christmas customs. In contrast, ivy, with its delicate vines and lush foliage, is a symbol of the human spirit's strength and determination. Ivy's ability to cling and grow even in challenging conditions mirrors the resilience of the human soul in the face of adversity. In Christmas traditions, ivy represents the importance of faith and the steadfastness of the human heart, even in the darkest of times. Like holly, ivy has deep roots in pagan rituals and has evolved to become an integral part of Christmas celebrations. One of the most cherished traditions involving holly and ivy is their use in decorating homes. Wreaths, garlands, and centerpieces featuring these evergreen wonders adorn doors, mantels, and tables, creating a festive atmosphere. Couples have even exchanged holly and ivy branches as tokens of love and to bring good fortune. Both holly and ivy have also inspired numerous carols and songs, which have become an essential part of the holiday soundtrack. Classics like "The Holly and the Ivy" celebrate the beauty and symbolism of these plants. Beyond their visual and auditory presence, holly and ivy continue to play a role in various Christmas customs. Some believe that hanging a sprig of holly and a piece of ivy together will bring harmony to a household, symbolising the unity of opposites, such as male and female, and life and death. In a world that often moves too fast, these traditional symbols serve as a reminder to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the deeper meanings of the holiday season. The pairing of holly and ivy encapsulates the essence of Christmas, offering hope, strength, and a profound connection to our past. It reminds us that even in the coldest of winters, the warmth of the human spirit can thrive, much like the resilient plants themselves.

Christmas is a time of joy, celebration, and indulgence, and few desserts capture the essence of the holiday season quite like Christmas pudding. This rich, fruity, and decadent dessert has been a centrepiece of festive feasts for centuries. Here we delve into the history, ingredients, preparation, and significance of Christmas pudding, a beloved holiday tradition. The History Of The Christmas Pudding The origins of Christmas pudding can be traced back to medieval England, where it was initially known as "'frumenty.' Early versions of this dish were more like a porridge, made with boiled beef, mutton, raisins, currants, prunes, and spices. Over time, the recipe evolved, and the meat was eventually replaced with suet, a type of animal fat, which gave the pudding its characteristic richness. The tradition of making Christmas pudding on 'Stir-up Sunday' also has historical significance. This tradition, which falls on the last Sunday before Advent, dates back to the 16th century. Families would gather to mix and prepare the pudding, taking turns to stir the mixture while making a wish. The saying, 'Stir up, we beseech thee, O Lord,' from the Book of Common Prayer, is believed to be the origin of the name. Ingredients And Preparation Traditional Christmas pudding recipes are a treasure trove of rich and flavourful ingredients. While recipes may vary slightly from one family to another, the core ingredients include: Suet : As mentioned earlier, suet is a key ingredient that gives the pudding its luxurious texture. Dried Fruits : A mix of raisins, currants, sultanas, and candied peel adds sweetness and a chewy texture. Flour : To bind the ingredients together. Breadcrumbs : These help create a dense, moist texture. Sugar: Both brown and white sugars are typically used. Mixed Spice : A blend of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice provides warmth and depth of flavour. Eggs : These act as a binding agent. Brandy or Stout : These alcoholic ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also preserve the pudding. The preparation of Christmas pudding is a labour of love that involves mixing all these ingredients together into a dense batter. Traditionally, coins, charms, and small trinkets were hidden in the pudding to bring luck and fortune to those who found them, a tradition that is less common today due to safety concerns. The pudding is then steamed for several hours, which allows the flavours to meld and develop. After cooling, it can be stored for several weeks or even months, with some families preparing their puddings a year in advance. On Christmas Day, it is re-steamed and served with a flourish. Significance And Traditions Christmas pudding holds a special place in the hearts of many for several reasons: Symbolism : The flaming presentation of the pudding, often doused with brandy and set alight before serving, adds a dramatic and festive touch to the Christmas meal. Wishing : The tradition of stirring the pudding while making a wish on Stir-up Sunday brings a sense of togetherness and anticipation to the holiday season. Family Tradition : Passing down family recipes and the art of making Christmas pudding is a cherished tradition in many households. Nostalgia : The rich aroma and taste of Christmas pudding evoke memories of childhood Christmases and create a sense of continuity and comfort. Christmas pudding is more than just a dessert; it's a symbol of tradition, family, and the spirit of the holiday season. Its rich history, deep flavours, and the rituals associated with its preparation and presentation make it a beloved part of Christmas festivities. Whether you enjoy it with brandy butter, custard, or a dollop of whipped cream, Christmas pudding remains a timeless treat that warms the hearts of those who partake in this delightful holiday tradition.

The festive song, 'The 12 Days of Christmas' is a popular the world over, but it carries a deeper significance than many people may realise. Beyond its catchy melody and whimsical lyrics, this song has historical and cultural significance that dates back centuries. So what is the meaning and origins of the 12 Days of Christmas and how it has evolved over time. Historical Origins The concept of the 12 Days of Christmas can be traced back to Christian traditions. These twelve days are said to start on December 25th and continue until January 5th, culminating in the feast of the Epiphany on January 6th. The Epiphany commemorates the visit of the Three Wise Men, or Magi, to the infant Jesus. Each of the 12 days represents one of the Magi's journey to Bethlehem. Religious Significance During these 12 days, Christians reflect on the story of the Nativity and the birth of Jesus Christ. It's a time for spiritual contemplation and a reminder of the central message of Christianity: the birth of the Saviour. The song 'The 12 Days of Christmas' was, in fact, a mnemonic device for teaching religious concepts during a time when openly practicing the Christian faith was prohibited in some regions. S ymbolism In The Song The song itself is filled with symbolism: Partridge in a pear tree: Represents Jesus Christ as the partridge is known to protect its young with its own life, symbolising Christ's sacrifice. Two turtle doves: Symbolise the Old and New Testaments. Three French hens: Represent faith, hope, and love. Four calling birds: Traditionally, these represented the four Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Five golden rings: Symbolise the first five books of the Old Testament, known as the Torah. Six geese a-laying: Represent the six days of creation. Seven swans a-swimming: Symbolise the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit. Eight maids a-milking: Represent the eight Beatitudes. Nine ladies dancing: Symbolise the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit. Ten lords a-leaping: Traditionally, these represent the Ten Commandments. Eleven pipers piping: Symbolise the eleven faithful apostles. Twelve drummers drumming: Represent the twelve points of the Apostles' Creed. Modern Interpretations Today, 'The 12 Days of Christmas' is often seen as a fun and festive holiday song, with many people unaware of its deep religious roots and symbolism. It has become a secular part of Christmas celebrations, often associated with gift-giving and merriment. So in reality, 'The 12 Days of Christmas' is more than just a catchy tune; it carries a rich history and deep religious symbolism. While it has evolved into a secular holiday song, it's essential to remember its origins and the significance it holds for those who celebrate the Christian faith. Whether you view it as a joyful song or a religious teaching tool, the 12 Days of Christmas continues to be a meaningful part of the holiday season for many around the world.

Sainsbury’s is bringing its unbeatable combination of quality fresh food, competitive prices, innovative products and brilliant colleagues to a new location in Edinburgh with the opening of its newest store, Sainsbury’s Biggar Road Local. Ian Murray, MP for Edinburgh South, joined colleagues and customers to cut the ribbon on the new Local and celebrate its arrival in Fairmilehead. The new 2,820 sq. ft. store will occupy the ground floor of the Pentland Outdoor Centre, where the retailer’s arrival has secured the future of the building as a local centre for the community in Fairmilehead. With over 1,800 households within a 15-minute walk of the site, customers now have a new location for grocery shopping alongside existing local businesses. These include Cobbs Café, which has a new entrance and larger space on the upper level, and a reformatted Craigdon Mountain Sports on the lower ground floor. Sainsbury’s is passionate about providing ‘Good food for all of us’ and the new store will feature a carefully curated range of tasty products, including fresh food, fruit and veg, food-to-go, cupboard staples and freshly baked goods. It will also feature a new collection point enabling customers to order products from the much-loved brands of Argos, Habitat and Tu Clothing online and pick them up in-store at their convenience. The eighteen colleagues that make up the new store team, half of whom are new to Sainsbury’s, will play an active part in Sainsbury’s local and nationwide charity and community programmes. For example, the store will take part in the retailer’s Nourish the Nation campaign, a programme in partnership with Comic Relief aimed at helping to tackle food poverty by ensuring communities have improved access to balanced, nutritional and sustainable food sources. During the 2023 festive season, Sainsbury’s committed to donating £3 million to the programme via direct contributions and donations linked to the sale of selected products. Patrick Dunne, Sainsbury’s Property Director, said: “It’s great to celebrate the opening of our newest convenience store this morning after months of planning and work to transform the ground floor of the Pentland Outdoor Centre into a fantastic Sainsbury’s store for the local community – thanks to everyone that has supported us on this journey. I’m delighted our investment in Fairmilehead has allowed the centre to offer a new service to residents in the form of a new store that we hope will complement the businesses that already operate there.” Anthony Penman, Sainsbury’s Edinburgh Biggar Road Local Store Manager, said: “I’m thrilled to be able to welcome everyone to try out our brand-new store from today. We’re passionate about providing Good food for all of us and my brilliant new team and I are looking forward to doing exactly that for our customers in Fairmilehead.”

The UK’s biggest listed companies generated £89.8bn in tax during the 2022/23 financial year, PwC analysis released today shows. The 19th annual Total Tax Contribution of the 100 Group estimates the companies contributed £29.1bn in taxes borne - those that are a direct cost to the company - and a further £60.6bn in taxes collected, such as income tax and employee national insurance contributions (NICs) deducted under PAYE, for the year ended 31 March 2023. The report has been compiled from data provided by 92 of the largest listed companies in the UK, and has been extrapolated to estimate the overall contribution of the 100 Group as a whole. The survey period includes a time of significant pressure on people and businesses across the country. With public finances already stretched from supporting the economy during the pandemic and the energy crisis, there was further fiscal tightening after the 2022 Autumn Statement with the impact being reflected in this year’s survey. In 2022/23 the 100 Group’s total tax contribution increased by 7.2%, driven by employment taxes and the energy profits levy (EPL) that took effect from May 2022. National insurance contributions increased as a result of the temporary 1.25 percentage point increase that applied to seven months of 2022, along with higher wages and salaries in 2022/23. There are also seven months’ worth of energy profits levy included in this year’s survey. With the introduction of the plastic packaging tax and the energy profits levy, there were 30 business taxes identified by the survey, the highest number of taxes since the survey began. For every £1 of corporation tax, the 100 Group companies paid another £2.43 in other taxes borne, and £7.11 in taxes collected. The survey also highlights that total capital investment was above £25bn again this year. After a 38.4% increase last year, there was a 2% decrease in capital investment, totalling £25.3bn in 2022/23. Meanwhile, R&D expenditure continued to increase, rising by 14.9% year-on-year to £12.5bn, driven by aerospace and pharmaceuticals companies. The 100 Group employed approximately 1.8 million people in 2022/23, or 5.6% of the total UK workforce, paying an average wage of £40,058 (national average wage is £34,963) and contributing employment taxes of £14,601 per employee on average. 100 Group Perspective On The Transition To Net Zero This year’s survey asked companies about their views on the impact of their net zero targets. An overwhelming majority of 96% heads of tax said they have a net zero target, and 11% expect tax policy to have a high impact on meeting the target. Over two-thirds (68%) of companies said that more generous green incentives would be the most effective way to assist the UK in transitioning to net zero. Two in five (41%) see government intervention such as the Inflation Reduction Act in the US and the Green Deal Industrial Plan in the EU as having a significant impact on the UK’s competitiveness. However, companies in the survey were less concerned that US and EU green incentives would have a significant impact on their own investment in the UK, with only 14% of companies rating the impact as high or very high. Heads of tax have indicated the transition to net zero will have a significant influence on future decisions. The responses suggest that 41% of companies are expecting their business model to be significantly impacted by the transition, 44% expect a significant impact on business investment and 35% expect a significant impact on their research and development. Andy Agg, Chair of the 100 Group tax committee, says: “With total tax contribution reaching its highest level since the survey began, the report demonstrates the significant contribution to public finances the 100 Group provides. Beyond that, the findings illustrate that large businesses are consistently providing high levels of investment and innovation, during a time of challenging economic conditions and heightened geopolitical uncertainty, that have helped foster economic growth throughout the UK economy." “At 10.0% of total government receipts, the 100 Group total tax contribution underlines the stability the largest UK companies offer to the economy and wider society.” Andy Wiggins, tax partner at PwC, says: “The 2022/23 time period will be remembered as one impacted by geopolitical and inflationary pressures, and this report demonstrates the key role large companies play in the UK to sustain investment in capital projects and research and development, while supporting large numbers of well paid jobs." “Businesses will play an important role in the UK’s ability to meet its 2050 net zero target, and transition plans will be a key part of companies’ forward-looking strategies. Many expect their business model to be significantly influenced by the net zero adoption, including a large effect on business investment and research and development. Given the scale of effort required to meet the targets, companies were keen to emphasise the importance of long-term consistency and clarity over net zero policies, alongside incentives in the form of carrots over sticks to ease the transition.”