A recent comprehensive survey conducted by PAB Group across South Yorkshire, Lincolnshire and the East Midlands has unveiled critical insights into how businesses are navigating the challenges posed by language and cultural barriers. The findings reveal that a significant majority of businesses have encountered language barriers that adversely affected their operations and led to missed opportunities. Despite these challenges, businesses are actively seeking and utilising professional translation services and are unanimous in their recognition of the importance of language and cultural competencies. The survey was undertaken by PAB SEMA4 – a dedicated division of the PAB Group, specialising in supporting international trade through targeted services and expertise. A notable insight from the survey is the proactive approach businesses are taking towards multilingual communications and marketing materials, with many leveraging professional translation services and in-house resources. The desire for comprehensive services, including intercultural communication training and language skill development workshops, highlights the broader recognition of the need to effectively navigate cultural complexities. Iwona Lebiedowicz, founder of PAB Languages Centre, said: “We are committed to addressing these needs by offering a suite of services designed to empower businesses to overcome these barriers and succeed in the global market.” The survey across diverse business sectors revealed consistent concerns and insights regarding language and cultural barriers in business operations. It showed: A significant majority of respondents have encountered language barriers in their business operations. 100% of participants from South Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, and 80% in the East Midlands survey indicated facing such barriers. There's a notable impact on business opportunities due to language barriers, with 100% in Doncaster, 67% in Lincolnshire, and 50% in the East Midlands survey reporting lost opportunities. Over 60% of respondents are actively exploring new tools and AI technology to overcome these barriers, with 100% expressing concerns regarding privacy, copyrights, accuracy, and the risk to reputation from translation discrepancies. All respondents engage in international trade, underscoring the importance of addressing language barriers for business growth and expansion. The majority of businesses have used professional translation services, indicating a proactive approach to overcoming language barriers. The survey highlighted several aspects of cultural differences impacting business, including communication style, marketing strategies, and customer interactions, pointing to the complex nature of navigating global business environments. More than 100 businesses responded to the survey, which was carried out between 20th January and 20th March 2024. “This survey highlights the importance of how companies can miss out on business opportunities if they don’t address potential language and cultural barriers,” added Iwona. “Whether you're taking initial steps towards international expansion or looking to strengthen your presence in existing markets, PAB SEMA4 is your partner in achieving seamless and successful global engagement.” PAB Languages was founded in the East Midlands and now operates across the UK, with offices and Chamber of Commerce memberships in places such as Cambridgeshire, Boston in Lincolnshire, Doncaster and Sheffield in Yorkshire, and in Nottingham. PAB SEMA4 is at the forefront of providing dedicated services designed to empower exporters with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of international trade successfully. From comprehensive market research services covering 23 countries that pave the way for informed decision-making and streamlined overseas entry, to localisation strategies that ensure brands resonate with foreign markets, its offerings are tailored to support the growth of export business. Moreover, its cultural awareness and communication training equips individuals with the insights to understand and bridge cultural differences, enhancing competitiveness and effectiveness in the global marketplace. For more information visit www.pabsema4.co.uk .

In a business venture underscored by social responsibility, Leicester and its surrounding communities have welcomed new in-home care company Visiting Angels, led by Managing Director Ranjit Khunti and Registered Care Manager Hannah Flack. The duo, driven by a desire to make a tangible difference in people's lives, promise a fresh, innovative approach to in-home care, where every carer and client is treated with the utmost dignity and respect. As they embark on this new journey, they are poised to redefine what it means to provide quality care in the comfort of one’s home. Ranjit Khunti enjoyed a successful 20-year career in his family’s local clothing manufacturing business before transitioning to the care sector with Visiting Angels. Hannah meanwhile brings nearly two decades of experience in care to the operation, starting her career at 16 with individuals with learning disabilities before making the leap to elderly care. Inspired by her mother’s experience in the care sector, Hannah hopes to continue her legacy and passion for supporting the elderly to help Visiting Angels trailblaze in an area crying out for compassionate and out-front care provision. Hannah said: “During the pandemic, my grandma had to go into a care home. The care decisions ultimately fell to me. Despite my background in the sector, the challenge of caring for my own family member was unlike anything I’d ever faced. I was accustomed to caring for others, but making such a personal choice - especially during the pandemic - was the hardest decision of my life." "It’s given me a much deeper understanding and appreciation of what families go through in such heart-wrenching circumstances, which has spurred me on to provide that family level of sympathy and empathy to our clients and our carers here at Visiting Angels. I’m determined to make sure our carers feel safe and supported in the extremely challenging work they do, and that the families never feel alone in the process.” The UK’s care system is struggling, and too often failing, to meet the needs of the growing elderly population. With society’s needs becoming increasingly complex, care providers are now faced with the challenging task of ensuring carers are continually upskilled while providing financial and personal recognition. With caregiver turnover rising to 77% in 2023 for reasons such as low pay, poor working conditions or too much responsibility, Visiting Angels’ revitalised approach of caring for carers before anyone else is addressing the need to establish a strong, committed and highly skilled workforce. Through both financial rewards and opportunities for career development, Ranjit and the Visiting Angels team are determined to reform the care industry's conditions, which often leave carers feeling little to no appreciation. “I've been in Leicester since I came to England at 8 years old,” added Ranjit. “This city’s got my heart. I love the community here – it’s our town, and it feels like everyone belongs which is what I intend to project with Visiting Angels. This venture is driven by the desire to give independence back to those who need it most, and with my grandmother passing away during covid, Visiting Angels’ mission is so important to me on a personal level." "Visiting Angels is all about providing exceptional care while equally making carers feel the same level of love and respect. Whether it’s companionship, tailored healthcare or additional support, we intend to be there for everyone who needs us in the community. In the care industry, it’s often the case that carers have to rush from house to house through no fault of their own, but at Visiting Angels we want to make sure we have time for those real, meaningful moments. It's not just care; it's about making a real difference to people’s physical and mental health.”

The UK’s only fully electric-powered gardening business has been able to make new hires and grow its business operations after accessing support from Business Gateway. The Cycling Gardeners of Edinburgh, which offers a complete garden maintenance service delivered on cargo bikes by a team of independent gardeners, was founded in 2023 by Callum Ross, who wanted to combine his talent for gardening with his desire to be more sustainable. Callum, who previously worked as an Operations Manager in the events industry, was keen to reinvent the way gardeners operate in Scotland’s capital city. The business uses cargo bikes to travel and to transport materials and exclusively uses electric power tools. While the tools are more expensive than traditional petrol-powered tools, they are more sustainable, which chimes with the overall principle of the business. As well as its team of freelance gardeners, who are largely experienced horticulturalists, The Cycling Gardeners of Edinburgh is also hoping to employ young gardeners who may be new to the trade but who may not have their driving licence. The team has worked with local organisations Spokes, Sustrans, and the Cargobike Movement to increase their knowledge of cargo bikes. Looking for some inspiration on growing his business, Callum attended a Business Gateway-run Meet the Investors session where he was able to rehearse pitching his business and find out about the work Business Gateway does. It was this that inspired him to contact Business Gateway, and through that he met his adviser Jeff Hume. Business Gateway has supported The Cycling Gardeners of Edinburgh in a number of ways, including helping them to employ an Operations Manager using Edinburgh's Employer Recruitment Incentives (EERI) Scheme, using the research service to identify possible collaborations and improving their use of social media. Callum Ross, Founder of The Cycling Gardeners of Edinburgh said: “I’ve found that having a personal contact in Jeff has been so helpful, and I’m safe in the knowledge that he can give us solid advice. Business Gateway has also supported us in applying for grant funding which has been so helpful to help keep our operations afloat." “As a new business, it’s invaluable to have the support of Business Gateway and to know that they’re on the other end of a phone if you need.” Jeff Hume, Business Gateway adviser said: “It has been fantastic to support Callum and the team to create this unique idea and watch it come to life. They’ve been able to determine a great niche for their company and it’ll be wonderful to see it bloom into something even more special.”

Two new tenants have been announced for Bell Court for the spring and summer. For foodies, Beleza Rodizio will be bringing a Brazilian flavour to Stratford in its ‘all you can eat’ steakhouse menu that promises a ‘festival for the senses.’ Portuguese for ‘beauty,’ the name Beleza captures the essence of the rodizio-style steakhouse that is inspired by the colours and vibrancy of Brazil. Rodizio – or ‘rotation’ – refers to the way the gauchos rotate around the room with skewers of different grilled meats, stopping off at tables to carve. Legend has it that the rodizio style of service originates from a waiter mistakenly serving a meat skewer from the wrong side of the table but allowing the guest to take a small piece. Beleza’s heart is its grill. The most succulent meats, tangiest cheeses and freshest vegetables are slowly cooked in the open flame. Meat eaters can feast on up to fifteen of the finest cuts while vegetarians can choose from an abundance of mouth-watering salads, vegetables, cheeses, potatoes. Diners can complete their plate with traditional Brazilian and Argentinian hot and cold dishes from the all-you-can-eat self-serve salad bar. A spokesperson said: “We wanted to bring a taste of Brazil to Stratford’s Bell Court, and offer something unique that hasn’t been seen here before. Beleza is more than just a restaurant – it’s an experience. We chose the name because we think the experience of dining is simply beautiful." “From the moment you step through the door, you will be transported to a world of colour, fun and delicious food and cocktails. Visit: Bespoke kitchen and bathroom maker Hartley & Hall is due to open its new showroom in Bell Court next month. Using their own dedicated team of plumbers, electricians and flooring experts, Hartley & Hall offer a ‘start to finish’ service to manage the whole project, tailoring each build to the required design, time frame and budget. Visit: It’s also all change for the more familiar Corte Campana which relocates to a bigger space in Bell Court following its launch in summer 2022. Rich Jones, Centre Manager of Bell Court, said: “We’re over the moon to soon be welcoming two fabulous new additions to the Bell Court offering, meaning our units will be fully let. It again proves the rich diversity of businesses and services available to both locals and visitors.”

St Austell Brewery has been recognised at one of the top award ceremonies in hospitality. The business took home ‘Best Accommodation Operator’ at the Publican Awards last night - widely regarded as the pub industry ‘Oscars’. With 44 pubs in its managed estate, St Austell Brewery has over 500 rooms to offer in some of the South West’s most popular locations, from St Mary’s on the Isles of Scilly to Bath. The business has invested millions in refurbishing its accommodation over the past four years. Earlier this month, one of its biggest pub transformations to date - the Masons Arms in Branscombe, Devon - was named in the Sunday Times ‘100 Best Places to Stay in the UK’. Other recent investments include the Harbour Inn in Porthleven and the Rising Sun in St Mawes. The iconic Pier House in Charlestown, with 23 new-look bedrooms, is currently undergoing a full refurbishment and will be reopening this summer. Kevin Georgel, Chief Executive, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have won a Publican Award for our accommodation offer. This recognises all the hard work and commitment from our operations team and wider support teams, as we strive to make our pubs the best they can possibly be while delivering great experiences for our guests. It’s been a huge team effort, and I couldn’t be more proud." “We are lucky to operate pubs across the South West, one of the most beautiful regions in the UK. From coastal spots and rural escapes to city breaks, we have a wonderfully diverse estate. We are continuing to make significant investments into our pubs and our accommodation offer as it’s an extremely important part of our business. Providing the very best experiences we can for our guests, all year round, is right at the heart of that.”

A survey by Sapio Research, conducted on behalf of family run Celebration Packaging, has found that the vast majority (80%) of consumers are not familiar with ‘forever chemicals’ and the term PFAS. “When asked about the potential dangers of PFAS after being shown the definition, 96% of those surveyed stated that they were concerned about its potential dangers.” The man-made ‘forever chemicals’ called PFAS (per – and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of synthetic chemicals used in a wide variety of common applications, from fast food packaging and non-stick cookware to firefighting foams and stain repellant chemicals for clothing and carpets. PFAS do not exist in nature and do not naturally degrade, which means they can end up contaminating groundwater for a very long time after their release into the environment. Research is ongoing to assess the risk to humans from a build-up of PFAS in the human body. There are concerns that in very badly polluted areas a large amount of PFAS could accumulate in the blood and cause cancers and infertility*. Concerns around PFAS have been in the public domain for quite some time. Denmark banned PFAS nearly two years ago and in the United States, 12 states have also announced bans. In addition, and following a six-month consultation period, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) is developing a plan to reduce PFAS emissions into the environment and make products and processes safer for people. Consumer concerns about forever chemicals Celebration Packaging Managing Director Nick Burton says: “Our survey has found that the vast majority of consumers (80%) are not familiar with forever chemicals and the term PFAS. However, when informed about PFAS, some 96% of respondents stated that they were concerned about the potential dangers forever chemicals pose." The importance of certifications “Celebration Packaging has always invested in accreditations and certifications which we take very seriously, so that when we make environmental and sustainability claims, we can always back them up. This sets us apart from many of our competitors, while also giving our customers confidence to help them on their sustainability journey." “We became aware of the PFAS issue some time ago and began to look for viable non-PFAS packaging in early 2022. Since then, we have been working hard to ensure that we can deliver PFA-free packaging solutions for the takeaway, delivery and QSR sectors – and we are delighted to confirm that all our white bagasse clamshells, dinnerware and chip trays are now TÜV home compostable and that they are certified PFAS-free." “To ensure that the bagasse fibre clamshells, chip trays and dinnerware are free from these forever chemicals, we arranged for SGS, an internationally renowned testing, inspection and certification company, to test them. The SGS test report shows that no PFAS and similar chemicals such as PFCA’s / PFOS’s / PFOA’s / PFHxS’s were detected." “Furthermore, the survey also found that 96% of consumers indicated that it was important that their packaging was certified PFA-free. As only 31% were not prepared to pay extra for such packaging, there is every reason for food service outlets to use certified packaging from reputable suppliers.” Delivering PFAS-free bagasse packaging solutions “We believe these PFAS-free white bagasse products to be the best alternative to foodservice packaging made from expanded polystyrene,” says Nick Burton. “They are the perfect replacement for expanded polystyrene plates, trays and clamshells now that the SUP (single-use plastic) legislation has come into effect." “Bagasse is a great material because it is natural and renewable, using waste fibres from agriculture that would otherwise be discarded. The manufacture of bagasse fibre packaging also has a lower carbon footprint than its oil-based comparable products**, but to make bagasse water and grease resistant, PFAS were traditionally added. Our extensive 12 month in-market trials show that this is no longer necessary.” “This new PFAS-free white bagasse fibre packaging looks exactly the same as the old range and can be used in a microwave to reheat food and we are sure that operators and consumers will now be delighted to know that it is PFAS-free." “As publicity around the PFAS issue builds, so will concerns from consumers, so foodservice operators should check if the packaging they are using is PFAS-free." “As a consultative business, we recommend that they talk to us if they have any concerns about the environmental impact of the packaging they use. We have been providing sustainable packaging solutions for many years and in the face of bans and taxes, we can help customers move away from single-use plastics and reduce their carbon footprint.” * cancers and infertility* . •• Journal of Sustainable Energy & Environment 11 (2020) 61-69 Picture caption: 95% of those surveyed felt it important that food packaging is certified free from PFAS forever chemicals.

In the year that Virgin Atlantic turns 40, the airline will pay homage to its founder, Sir Richard Branson, by naming its latest state of the art aircraft in his honour. Ruby Rebel, registration G-VSRB, will salute Sir Richard and mark 40 years of Virgin Atlantic shaking up the travel industry. The airline’s fifth Airbus A330neo, which will enter service from May, will also feature a brand-new flying icon, inspired by Sir Richard and the rebellious spirit that’s always driven Virgin Atlantic to do things differently. The icon, whose features are inspired by Holly Branson, include nods to Sir Richard’s career and famed business ventures throughout its design, such as Virgin Records pin badges, a Tubular Bells charm bracelet, a Virgin Galactic rocket on the belt’s buckle and a Virgin Voyages anchor on icons boot. Another bracelet featuring the letters J, S, and H have been designed as a sweet gesture to his wife Joan and children Holly and Sam. The icon’s punk styling reflects the airline’s iconic Vivienne Westwood uniform, which is still rocked by its cabin crew today. Ruby Rebel symbolises Virgin Atlantic’s desire to do things differently, beginning in June 1984, when its first aircraft, Maiden Voyager, departed London for New York, bringing a flash of red to the skies. The airline’s focus has always been to deliver the best customer experience in a brilliantly different way. From being the first airline to introduce seat back TVs, the Premium cabin and fleet wide Wi-Fi, to flying the first world’s first Pride flight and the first 100% SAF transatlantic flight, Virgin Atlantic and its people continue to challenge the status quo. Shai Weiss, CEO Virgin Atlantic, commented, “Forty years ago, Virgin Atlantic flew our first customers between London and New York offering something different and realising our purpose to ensure everyone can take on the world. As we gear up to mark our Ruby anniversary in June, it’s an opportunity to look ahead to the next forty years." “So much has changed, but the one thing that’s remained constant is our incredible people and their unique red spirit, the red thread that keeps us flying miles above the rest. It all started with Richard on 22 June 1984, a pioneer with a vision to shake up the travel industry, putting people first and giving customers a choice" “Ruby Rebel embodies the rebellious spirit that’s always driven us to do things differently. And, the best is yet to come.” Sir Richard Branson, Virgin Atlantic Founder and President, commented, “When starting Virgin Atlantic, I went against everyone’s advice – and on paper they were right. They knew we’d be a tiny airline against much bigger players. But my attitude is that if you can create something that's better than what everybody else is offering, then you have a chance of succeeding." “Virgin Atlantic was created to provide a bright red, fun, friendly, fabulous choice that made flying better for everyone. We worked out in 1984 all the things we could do differently, from our planes, our Clubhouses, our in-flight experience and most importantly our people. Now, 40 years later that rebellious spirit lives on and will continue to drive us forward as we shake up the aviation industry for the next 40 years and beyond.”

London & South East Finance Awards: 65% of London finance professionals think economic instability will have biggest impact on them this year. A poll has found that over two-thirds of finance professionals and teams across London and the South East think that economic instability will have the biggest single impact on their operations this year. The London & the South East Finance Awards is a one-of-a-kind accolade which recognises those finance teams and individuals who have navigated less than favourable economic conditions to achieve some incredible things in the region. Businesses from across the capital and South East can now submit entries for the Awards – hosted by leading recruitment firm Robert Walters in partnership with ACCA, HSBC, CFGI and Mills & Reeve. Following on from the resounding success of its inaugural launch last year – the awards are now back for a second instalment, recognising outstanding individuals and teams in 22 categories. The deadline for entries will be Friday 5th July, applications will then be judged by a panel of the region’s industry leaders. Elliot Jackson, Director at Robert Walters UK comments: “Over 750 finance professionals, teams and businesses came together last year to celebrate the first London & South East Finance Awards – it was a fantastic night of amazing stories, celebrations and great company." “This year will be even bigger, an unmissable event for the finance community. Now is the time to start working on your entries!” Abdul Goffar, Director of ACCA UK comments: “ACCA is proud to be partnering with Robert Walters, HSBC, CFGI and Mills & Reeve for the second year of the London Finance Awards!. Last year gave us the unique opportunity to celebrate the finance professionals and finance teams who propelled many businesses to success in what was a very difficult year for many." “We cannot wait to hear the incredible stories and accomplishments of those powering the capital’s finance industry this year.” Matt Osborne, Head of Corporate Banking, London at HSBC comments: “HSBC are delighted to be supporting the London & South East Finance Awards for a second time. We welcome another opportunity to recognise and highlight the industrious work of our local finance community. I look forward to reviewing the applications of the capital’s finest financial talent.” Greg Taylor, Managing Partner at CFGI comments: “The continued challenging macro-environment has been difficult for many but it is often in these types of conditions that the excellent work of many finance professionals, teams and leaders, is particularly vital and there is much to be commended and celebrated." “The awards event last year was a truly special evening, celebrating the successes of finance professionals across London and the South east – one that we very much look forward to being a part of it again this year.” Andrew Secker, Partner at Mills & Reeve comments: “We are excited to be sponsoring the London and South East Finance Awards for the first time.” “Finance professionals and teams operate at the beating heart of business – so we look forward to being part of an awards programme that celebrates excellence, innovation and talent in finance within the city and South East." “Thanks to organisers Robert Walters and partners, CFCI, ACCA, and HSBC, for allowing us to come on board as the awards celebrate a second year.” London & South East Finance Awards – 2024 categories: • Finance Team of the Year - Retail • Finance Team of the Year - FMCG • Finance Team of the Year - Media & Publishing • Finance Team of the Year - Property & Real Estate • Finance Team of the Year - Tech, Telco & FinTech • Finance Team of the Year - Leisure & Hospitality • Finance Team of the Year - Pharma, Healthcare & Life Sciences • Finance Team of the Year - Energy & Natural Resources • Finance Team of the Year - Professional & Business Services • Finance Team of the Year - Investment Management • Accounts Receivable & Credit Control Team of the Year • Accounts Payable Team of the Year • Tax/Treasury Leader of the Year • Senior Finance Leader of the Year (Less than £50 million turnover) • Senior Finance Leader of the Year (£50-200 million turnover) • Senior Finance Leader of the Year (Over £200 million turnover) • Finance Leader of the Year (Less than £50 million turnover) • Finance Leader of the Year (£50-200 million turnover) • Finance Leader of the Year (Over £200 million turnover) • Rising Star of the Year (Qualified) • Rising Star of the Year (Non/Part-Qualified) • ESG Excellence Award

With spring approaching, the stunning vibrant colours of nature are emerging, and the flowers will begin to bloom shortly. From woodland bluebells to elegant roses and graceful lilies, flowers never fail to enchant us with their beauty. Yet, while it is true that flowers can make stunning subjects, capturing their essence takes more than just snapping a photo. As a photographer, there are several factors to consider to ensure that shots achieve a professional quality that draw the viewer’s eye. James Whitten, Marketing Manager at photoGuard says: “Flowers are captivating with their vibrant colours and delicate fragrances. No wonder they are one of the most popular subjects for nature photography.” Leading camera equipment insurer photoGuard shares some effective flower photography techniques. Timing It's better to take photographs of flowers outside as opposed to indoors if possible. This means photographers can take advantage of natural light and can capture the flowers in their natural habitat. If taking pictures outside, photographs should be taken in the early morning or early evening. Whilst it may seem tempting to take the photographs when the sun is shining, soft lighting makes for a clearer shot and better compliments the flowers. Additionally, taking photographs at this time greatly reduces the amount of shadow that will appear in the photograph due to the position of the sun. Steadiness While photographers can't control the weather, they can put certain measures in place to ensure their photoshoots are not disturbed too much by the weather. Whilst rainy days make for excellent photographs, wind can be a difficult element to battle in photography as it means the flowers will be moving slightly in the breeze. As a result, it can be hard to keep the camera focused. One way to address this is by placing an object outside the shot to block the wind and keep the flower still. Macro Don't be afraid to get up close when taking photographs of flowers. A closer shot can be achieved with a macro lens or even by zooming in nice and close can bring out details in a flower that often go unnoticed. Macro lenses can often be found for a reasonable price. “If you had planned to take photographs on a day and got hit with an unexpected shower, you'll be able to capture individual raindrops with this technique” adds Whitten. Read more flower photography techniques:

The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has compiled a list of plants to correspond with Pantone Color Institute’s Colour of the Year 2024. ‘Peach Fuzz’ was the colour selected for the 25th year of the programme, which the Institute believes conjures an image and feeling of “our desire to nurture ourselves and others. It’s a velvety gentle peach tone whose all-embracing spirit enriches mind, body, and soul.” For gardeners planning to use this signature colour there is no shortage of peachy tones and textures to be found in horticulture, whether in the delicate petals of spring favourites such as Narcissus ‘Waldorf Astoria’, or the late summer beauty of Dahlia ‘Labyrinth’, or even indoors on a flowering cactus. ‘Peach Fuzz’ was found to be a match for colour 26D in the RHS Colour Chart – the tool for documenting plant colour worldwide. Curators of the RHS Herbarium have matched Pantone Peach Fuzz to a list of plants which can be grown in a range of spaces, big and small. Gardeners can experience the warmth and joy of ‘Peach Fuzz’ simply by introducing a few of these top ten matches into their gardens and homes: Chrysanthemum 'Salmon Enbee Wedding' : A half-hardy perennial that grows to 1m in height, with divided foliage and sprays of single flowers whose rays are yellowish-pink tinged with light coral pink, and creamy-yellow on reverse. Dahlia ‘Labyrinth’ : A tuberous-rooted perennial with dark green foliage. Its large, flamboyant flowers, up to 20cm across, have peachy petals, gently curled and twisted to reveal the darker pink undersides, and are produced from mid-summer to the first frost. Kniphofia ‘Toffee Nosed’ : Ideal for sunny banks and borders these exotic looking hardy perennials have slender leaves and ivory flowers turning a light toffee brown at the tips. Flowers between June and September and grows up to 100cm. Lilium rosthornii : A Chinese lily, with soft golden-orange blooms, which has only become available in recent years. Easily and readily grown in light- or part-shade in a humus-rich soil. Narcissus ‘Waldorf Astoria’ : A double daffodil with large flowers in mid spring. These have three rows of broad, white petals, interspersed with shorter, pinky-orange corona segments. Enjoys full sun or partial shade in a moist but well-drained position. Potentilla fruticosa 'Daydawn' : A spreading, bushy deciduous shrub to 80cm tall, with small, pinnate leaves and saucer-shaped pale yellow flowers tinged yellow and pink, from early summer to early autumn. Rebutia 'Apricot Ice' : A hybrid rebutia cactus, comprising barrel-shaped stems with soft, hair-like spines, and large, star-shaped orange blooms, which fade to apricot-pink. Easy to grow and makes a great beginner’s houseplant. Rhododendron 'Hanger's Flame' : A dazzling and lightly scented variety of the much loved shrub, with orange flowers that feature a slightly more golden tint on the upper lobes. Flowers in May and June. Rosa JOIE DE VIVRE ('Korflociol') : A small shrub reaching about 60cm in height. It flowers repeatedly through the summer and autumn. The scented blooms are double and rosette in form with a peachy pink and cream colour. Needs a moist but well-drained position in full sun. Verbascum 'Tropic Sun' : A tall perennial – reaches up to 1.5m - developing from a rosette of large leaves. The flowers are yellow flushed with peachy-orange with a red eye. For more information about the RHS herbarium and plants detailed above visit www.rhs.org.uk

A family-owned self-storage business in Poole is celebrating its second anniversary by offering free storage. Store and Secure in Hamworthy is run by ‘storage sisters’ Lucy and Sophie Maidman. Their stunning success means they are able to offer four weeks free storage as an anniversary special. Painted in a distinctive yellow colour, the huge facility on Blandford Road is named Joyce House after the sisters’ mother. Before moving into the self-storage business the family ran the well-known Maidman’, the removal firm. Lucy said: “Our official opening was two years ago and we have had so much help and goodwill that we wanted to give something back." “The business has done better than we’d dare hoped and to mark our second year we have a super offer of four weeks’ free storage. Many of our clients use their space to run online retail businesses, so this is a great opportunity for someone to try out a small business and see if it’s viable." “We take in all the stock for our clients so they can continue with their full-time jobs and use our facility for their side-hustles." “We are from Hamworthy and have sponsored a stand at Hamworthy United FC and we really do want to help our community where we can." “At Joyce House we have all types and sizes of storage as well as serviced offices. And we love people to pop in and say hello.”

St Austell Brewery’s Tribute (4.2% ABV), has won two medals at the prestigious International Brewing Awards 2024. Tribute - St Austell Brewery’s longstanding flagship pale ale - is still making waves in the world of beer, 25 years since it was first brewed. The beer scooped a bronze medal in the cask ale category (3.9%-4.3%) and a silver medal in bottle (2.9%-4.3%). The International Brewing Awards are often dubbed ' the Oscars of the brewing industry'; an award is a recognition by fellow professional brewers that a beer is an outstanding commercial example of its style. The competitions were first run in 1888 and have constantly developed to reflect the global market for beer. Georgina Young, brewing director at St Austell Brewery, said: “To win these accolades is a very proud moment for the team and testament to the effort put in to brewing such a timeless, quality beer which can stand up to both old and new beers entering the competition and still hold its own." “It’s particularly special that both packaged Tribute and cask Tribute have been recognised as best-in-class; we’re proud champions of cask beer and continue to shout about how important it is to British brewing. Tribute is a great example of how brilliant cask beer can really be when it’s brewed and treated with the care and attention it deserves.” Tribute has stood the test of time; it was launched to commemorate the 1999 solar eclipse. It was originally a one-off special named Daylight Robbery, but proved to be so popular it was reintroduced as Tribute and has since won various awards over the years. The zesty and fresh pale ale brewed with specially sourced ingredients, including Cornish Gold malt and hops from the UK and the USA, is one of the nation's best loved cask brands, sitting in the top 10 best-selling cask nationally. Tribute was also the best performing premium ale brand across the Off Trade in 2023*. *Source: Circana/SIG BWS/Actual Value Sales growth 52wks to 30/12/23 vs YA.