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The British Museum has brought together more than 2000 years of artistic creation in this first permanent Peruvian exposition, housed in its Wellcome Trust Gallery. A highlight of the museum’s ‘Living and Dying’ exhibition, the free to view display focuses on how the people of Peru and the Andean world have survived and thrived across millennia by establishing a special relationship with sea and land. Experience a taste of the rich cultural heritage and soul of a nation before you visit Peru and explore its many wonders in person! More than fifty exhibits made from ceramics, textiles, wood, stone and shell, tell stories about some of the most important civilizations of the ancient world. They shine a light on how these societies understood their environment as an animate being, sometimes threatening yet also a source of healing, subsistence and protection. Mr Juan Carlos Mathews, Peru’s Minister of Foreign Trade and Tourism, commented at the opening ceremony, “The British Museum receives nearly seven million visitors annually so we are delighted that as from today, every single one of them will now be able to learn more about our pre-Columbian cultures such as the Moche, Nasca, Lambayeque, Chimú, Chincha and Ica. This experience is the perfect stepping stone for every traveller to our beautiful country!” The sea section of the exposition encompasses both ancient and contemporary ways of living, exploring the riches of the ocean while recognising the threats of climate change and illegal fishing. Through artefacts and digital media, it highlights the importance of Pacific Ocean resources for the survival of ancient societies of the Central Andes, the continuous tradition from pre-Hispanic to present day of navigation and fishing in totora reed boats and the mythical symbolism associated with the spiny oyster, Spondylus and Strombus. The second section of the display focuses on the land and its resources, which were seen as a natural force to provide life. Celebrations and fertility ceremonies to honour the Pachamama (Mother Earth), as well as agricultural traditions such as Chicha brewing are showcased. Through a selection of colourful Nasca pottery (200 B.C.-650 A.D.) and spectacular views of geoglyphs, the value of the land is explored as a sacred space that can be adapted for the needs of societies even in the most arid regions of the world. A selection of archaeological objects together with modern textiles will take the visitor on a journey through the complex system of Andean weaving as a tradition that has survived for over 5000 years and continues to be recognized worldwide for its exceptional quality, diverse techniques, striking iconography and symbolic value. This exposition is the first permanent space devoted to stories about past and present cultures from the coast and highlands of South America. It will allow the British Museum to share and amplify the work of scholars, artists and members of source communities who have been working with the collection. Cecilia Pardo Grau, Curator, said: "The Peru and the Andes permanent display, part of the Living and Dying Gallery at the British Museum, brings new stories about how Andean societies from the past and present have dealt with the world around them. Through fifty objects from different periods and places, this exhibit provides a glimpse of the enormous potential of what can be done with these fabulous collections. I hope it fosters new conversations and, simultaneously, enhances further collaborations with the communities these objects represent." Lissant Bolton, Keeper of Africa, Oceania and the Americas, said: “It is wonderful to be able to display some of the amazing objects in the Museum’s Andean collections, including very beautiful ancient and modern textiles and marvellous ceramics. This Peru case brings new perspectives to questions about how different societies deal with the troubles of life, the theme of the Living and Dying Gallery.” Ricardo Romero, Director, PromPeru London said at the official opening of the exhibition last night, “This is not the first time that the British Museum has exhibited the richness of Peruvian cultures. In 2021, the first temporary exhibition: “Peru: A Journey in Time,” was opened. Featuring 80 pieces from the British Museum’s own collection, and an additional 43 objects borrowed from across seven Peruvian museums, this exhibition attracted over 73,000 visitors in just four months." "On the back of this success, the British Museum and PROMPERÚ have continued to work closely together to shed light on the beauty and history of Andean cultures. And now, for the first time in its 270-year history, Peru will have its own permanent space for the display of Peruvian cultural artefacts in one of the most iconic museums in the world.” Peru received 71,322 tourists from the UK in 2019 making the UK the fourth largest European visitor to the country. Culture is the soul of a nation and Peru’s cultural heritage is unique and extraordinary. The British Museum’s new showcase doesn’t only represent Peru’s history and heritage however, it also celebrates the creativity, vitality and resourcefulness of its people. The Trustees of the British Museum acknowledge with gratitude the generosity of Madeleine Osterling Letts, Macarena Rojas Osterling, and Cristina Rojas Osterling, alongside the continued support of PROMPERÚ, in creating this display and promoting the Peru programme.

The Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) appears likely to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup after the only likely alternative, Australia, declined to bid. This will be the second time that the Middle East has hosted the tournament, following last year’s 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. This news will have a big impact on both the commercial branding landscape of football and the soft power of Saudi Arabia as a nation. Qatar entered the top 25 of the Global Soft Power Index this year for the first time after it hosted the World Cup last year. Hugo Hensley, Head of Sport Services at Brand Finance said: "Saudi Arabia's hosting of the 2034 World Cup is a significant event for both the country and the sport of football. It is an opportunity for Saudi Arabia to showcase its culture and hospitality to the world, and to promote itself as a destination for business and tourism." "For brands, the World Cup is a major sponsorship opportunity. However, it is important to measure the brand value impacts of sponsorship carefully to ensure that it is a worthwhile investment. Brands need to do this by tracking their brand value over time and measuring the impact of specific marketing activities, such as sponsorship." Konrad Jagodzinski, Place Branding Director at Brand Finance said: "The hosting of the 2034 World Cup by Saudi Arabia is a significant opportunity for the country to enhance its soft power. The tournament will provide a platform for Saudi Arabia to showcase its culture and hospitality to the world, and to position itself as a destination for business and tourism." “Qatar enjoyed a significant and immediate improvement to its Global Soft Power Index ranking in connection with the World Cup, entering the world’s top 25 for the first time. Brand Finance’s research conducted in the autumn of 2022 found that thanks to the media and fan interest in the run-up to the event, Qatar improved significantly on the global rankings of familiarity, reputation, influence, culture & heritage, as well as specifically for being a leader in sport and offering an appealing lifestyle. The research we are conducting now will tell us of the legacy of the event." "The 2034 World Cup will be an opportunity for Saudi Arabia to similarly tell its story to the world and to shape its own narrative." The SAFF has stated that it will invest heavily in infrastructure and facilities to prepare for the World Cup. The country plans to build new stadiums and renovate existing ones, as well as improve its transportation and accommodation networks. View the Brand Finance Football 50 2023 report here View the full Brand Finance Global Soft Power Index here Brand Finance is the world’s leading brand valuation consultancy. Bridging the gap between marketing and finance for more than 25 years, Brand Finance evaluates the strength of brands and quantifies their financial value to help organizations of all kinds make strategic decisions. Headquartered in London, Brand Finance has offices in over 20 countries, offering services on all continents. Every year, Brand Finance conducts more than 5,000 brand valuations, supported by original market research, and publishes over 100 reports which rank brands across all sectors and countries.

Specialists in Manufacturing and Engineering recruitment, F1rst Commercial Recruitment has revealed that it is one of the Financial Times Leading UK Recruiters for 2024. This rigorously determined and highly prized award identifies the best recruitment agencies in the country. Only agencies highly recommended by companies, clients and candidates receive awards. F1rst Commercial Recruitment is part of F1rst Group Solutions Ltd, which also encompasses First Executive Recruitment. Led by Sharon Seville (Fellow and Board Director, REC and President of the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce (Stockport)), F1rst Commercial Recruitment has been awarded its place on the Financial Times list of leading recruiters for its expertise and reputation in three categories: Engineering & Industry, Business & Professional Services, and Finance. Statistica, the FT’s research partner, extensively evaluated 10,000 independently collected reviews to determine the recipients of these Leading UK Recruiters awards. The surveys gather opinions of hiring managers, candidates and external recruiters, and only recruitment agencies with sufficient recommendations make the final list. As a small, boutique recruitment agency, F1rst Commercial Recruitment has punched well above its weight in achieving this recognition from the Financial Times. Sharon Seville, company founder and specialist in the Manufacturing and Engineering sector in the UK is still very much a hands-on recruiter and stated, "I couldn't be happier or prouder to have received recognition as one of the country's Leading Recruiters. It’s a privilege to help people build their careers, and companies build their business. Doing it right is paramount for them, and for us. My business model is simple: to bring my own expertise and experience to every vacancy we support. That's why we've got a 100% success rate for filling jobs." There are well over 30,000 recruitment agencies in the UK and around 100,000 recruiters. Consequently, this new category in the long-running lists by the Financial Times is essential for enabling employers and candidates to select the best recruitment service to meet their needs. Those recruitment businesses which have made the list stand out as exceptional for both employers and candidates, making them a secure choice for talent acquisition and job hunting. This award is confirmation that F1rst Commercial Recruitment already has an excellent reputation as one of the UK's best recruitment consultancies, which is now recognised by being awarded the title of one of the UK's Leading Recruiters 2024 by the Financial Times.

Lord Karan Bilimoria CBE DL has been appointed patron of the Small Business Charter – the mark of excellence for business schools that excel in supporting small businesses, entrepreneurs, and local economic growth. He has used the appointment to urge UK business schools and government to build on their collaboration to help the economy 'go for growth.' Lord Bilimoria is a cross bench peer, the founder of Cobra Beer, Chairman of the Cobra Beer Partnership, a joint venture with Molson Coors, and the founding Chair of the UK India Business Council. He is a long-standing supporter of business schools and universities, having studied at Cranfield School of Management, London Business School and Harvard Business School, and is currently Chancellor of the University of Birmingham and Ambassador for Cambridge Judge Business School. The Small Business Charter – which was developed by the late Lord Young of Graffham, the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills and the Chartered Association of Business Schools – is a national accreditation currently held by 66 business schools across the UK and Ireland. Since its inception in 2015, the Small Business Charter has delivered a number of business support programmes for the Government including Business Basics, the Small Business Leadership Programme and, most recently, the Help to Grow: Management Course. The Small Business Charter accreditation acts as a catalyst for growth by connecting locally based, world-class business schools with small businesses, government and local economic stakeholders. In his role as patron, Lord Bilimoria will oversee the Small Business Charter as it continues to deliver one of its flagship programmes, the Help to Grow: Management Course. The 12-week programme is a collaboration between Small Business Charter accredited business schools and the Government; designed to increase productivity and drive economic growth through high-quality management and leadership training. In its first two years, it has benefitted 5,500 SMEs. In a nationwide evaluation of the Help to Grow: Management Course, undertaken by Ipsos, 91% of participants reported greater confidence in leading and managing their business, 90% felt more aware of the factors that would drive productivity, and 85% left with a better understanding for how best to innovate their business model. Lord Bilimoria’s appointment was announced at London South Bank University Business School where he was introduced to the school’s latest cohort of small business leaders on the Help to Grow: Management Course. Lord Karan Bilimoria CBE, DL, said: “Our business schools can help the UK go for growth. It’s why I am honoured to have been appointed as the patron of the Small Business Charter at such an important time for small businesses, who are the beating heart of our economy." "It’s a particular privilege for me to follow Lord Young of Graffham who was not only a wonderful friend but a true hero of mine and an absolute legend." “The Help to Grow: Management Course, and the Small Business Leadership Programme before it, are just two examples of the immense capability of the Small Business Charter, and its accredited business schools, to equip small businesses and entrepreneurs to grow their businesses and power the economy. I look forward to working with our business schools to further advance their role as catalysts for growth and partners of government.” Michael Hayman MBE, Chair of the Small Business Charter, said: “The appointment of Lord Bilimoria as our new patron comes at a vital time. A prosperous society hinges on the success of more small businesses around the UK and our work helps more of those firms thrive. Lord Bilimoria builds on the phenomenal legacy of our founding patron, Lord Young of Graffham, and brings a formidable track record as a business leader and campaigner. He also shares the view that business schools are a catalyst for growth and have great ability to realise the huge economic potential in their localities and the nation at large.” Flora Hamilton, Executive Director of the Small Business Charter, and CEO of the Chartered Association of Business Schools, said: “We pride ourselves on creating the conditions that support entrepreneurs and small businesses to thrive in every corner of the UK and Ireland. The Small Business Charter acts as an engine for local and national economic growth through world-class management education and business support. We're thrilled to have Lord Bilimoria on board to support that mission at this critical time for small businesses."

Loughborough Fair will welcome thousands of residents and visitors to the town centre as it returns for its 802nd year. The historic fair, which is operated by Charnwood Borough Council will take place from Wednesday November 8 to Saturday November 11. The fair will be officially opened by the Mayor of Charnwood, Councillor Margaret Smidowicz at 6pm on Wednesday before the fun-filled four days begin. Councillor Jennifer Tillotson, the Council’s lead member for economic development, regeneration and town centres, said: “I am looking forward to welcoming residents, visitors and the showman back to Loughborough for the annual fair. It is always a fantastic spectacle to see so many families enjoying the rides and attractions throughout the week.” The layout to this year’s Loughborough Fair will be altered slightly due to the scaffolding outside HSBC following a fire in the town centre but this will not affect the number or types of rides that will be on offer to visitors. The Council will work closely with partners including the police and will have stewards on patrol during the fair to make sure everyone enjoys the event safely. This year’s Loughborough Fair will see a number of rides and attractions returning to the town, including: Dodgems Superbob Bomber Megaspin Matterhorn Atmos Fear Miami Starflyer There will be rides that are suitable for every age group with attractions available for toddlers all the way through to adults. A number of food, drink and confectionary stalls will be on offer along with games and quiz stalls which will give visitors the chance to win prizes. The opening times for this year’s Loughborough Fair are: Wednesday, November 8: 6pm-11pm Thursday, November 9: 12pm-11pm Friday, November 10: 11am-11pm Saturday, November 11: 11am-11pm. The Beehive Lane multi-storey car park and Southfield Road car parks are available during the hours of the fair. Southfield offices car park will also be open to the public outside of the Council’s opening times. The first official charter for Loughborough Fair was granted to the Lord of the Manor, Hugh le Despenser, in 1221 by King Henry III.

The Mark Allen Group is delighted to announce with immediate effect that it has acquired the shares of Lewis Business Media which hold the assets relating to the following agricultural brands: Pig World, Poultry Business, Agronomist & Arable Farmer, Farm Contractor & Large Scale Farmer, Weekly Tribune and the newly launched event, Women in Agriculture. The consideration has not been disclosed. These assets will sit alongside Farmers Weekly in MA Agriculture Limited, one of eight operating companies in Mark Allen, which is based in Sutton. Simon Lewis, the Managing Director of the company founded by his parents, John and Elizabeth Lewis, will remain with the business for a short time, principally to deliver the National Pig Awards which take place in London later this month. The Lewis assets will add appreciably to the group’s farming interests, providing greater specialist depth in the pig, poultry, arable and contractor markets, areas which already feature more broadly in Mark Allen’s market-leading farming publication, Farmers Weekly. The deal allows the Lewis family to continue to publish a range of other non-agricultural titles, including Retail Destination, Pet Business World, Over the Counter, Pest, Hospitality Interiors, The SubPostmaster, PHU/PRA market report and TheJobCrowd. Ben Allen, the CEO of Mark Allen, said: “This is a fantastic acquisition for us. It extends the reach of Farmers Weekly, providing extensive opportunities, synergies and cover. Despite challenges in the market, the Lewis farming assets have performed very strongly, demonstrating the strength of these brands. They will make a tremendous addition to Farmers Weekly. It has been a very smooth and collaborative transaction, and I have particularly enjoyed working with Simon on this deal, who shares the same values in running a family business which we ascribe to.” Simon Lewis said: “We are delighted to have concluded this agreement with the Mark Allen Group. We have very much enjoyed publishing in these markets and would like to thank all those who worked with us over the period, a number of whom have become good friends. We do not think that there could be a better fit for this group of brands than the Mark Allen stable and look forward to watching them flourish in their new environment. Our experience of everyone we have dealt with at the Mark Allen Group during this process, especially Mark and Ben, has been nothing but positive, and we wish them well in the future."

Based between York and Harrogate, Johnsons is a family-run business and is one of the largest and longest-established commercial nurseries in the UK. The company celebrated its centenary year in 2021 and is a trusted supplier of plants and trees to the amenity sector. The Plant Healthy certification shows that Johnsons is a business that trades and grows plants to a high plant health and biosecurity standard whilst reducing the risk of introducing or spreading destructive plant pests, as well as protecting the horticultural industry, other cultivated plants and natural habitats. Plant Health is important to Johnsons for many reasons such as protecting our woodlands from pests and diseases such as ash-dieback and oak processionary moth and safeguarding native flora and fauna from non-native pests and diseases. Healthy plants are fundamental for the creation of beautiful gardens and landscapes and are essential for life, making the oxygen we breathe and absorbing carbon dioxide, they are also essential for the food we eat and without them, we wouldn’t be here. Johnsons’ Commercial and Business Manager, Jonathan Whittemore, said: “You can help with Plant Health by buying responsibly from reputable nurseries and suppliers and avoiding buying plants that have been sourced from areas with high-risk pests and diseases, keeping your boots clean to avoid spreading diseases, looking after your plants and knowing pests when you see them.”

British Airways’ has flown its first flight in more than 15 years from London Heathrow to Latvia which touched down at Riga International Airport (RIX). The inaugural service received a warm local welcome as it taxied to stand, with traditional drummers greeting customers as they stepped off the aircraft. This winter, British Airways will operate three times a week between its home at Heathrow (Terminal 5) and the Latvian capital, with flights departing on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Flights are operated by a mix of A320 and A321 aircraft, with return fares available from 85 EUR/ 73 GPB or 1 EUR + 23,500 Avios, British Airways’ loyalty club currency. On board the 2 hours 50-minute flight, customers can enjoy the airline’s quintessentially British product and service, and Executive Club members can earn and redeem miles on their flights. Neil Chernoff, British Airways’ Director of Network and Alliances said: “We’re excited to further strengthen our connections between London and the Baltics and be back in Latvia after such a long time. Riga is a destination we know our customers will love, and we look forward to welcoming leisure and business travellers and those visiting family and friends on board the new service.” Liene Freivalde, Riga Airport’s Director of Aviation Services and Business Development said: "British Airways has always been a hugely popular carrier in the Baltics, so this return is warmly welcomed. A direct connection to Heathrow Airport is a fantastic addition to Riga Airport's network and we know it’s already been very positively received by corporate customers in particular. British Airways’ flight from Riga to Heathrow opens up more destinations globally, which is a significant benefit for Baltic passengers." The airline previously operated flights to Riga from 1997 to 2007.

Evoke Classics, a female-led online classic car auction and community, has won the Best New Product/Service Award at the Chartered Institute of Marketing's (CIM) Global Marketing Excellence Awards 2023, in partnership with Nerd Digital. The award, hosted by comedian Tom Allen, was presented at a ceremony in London on October 25, 2023. Evoke Classics was co-founded by Sarah Crabtree, a well-known TV personality from the UK TV hit series Bangers and Cash. In 2020, Crabtree left the show to pursue her career in the auction industry and saw a gap in the market for a female-led business in this male-dominated field. She joined forces with Nerd Digital, a marketing agency, to create a unique online classic car auction and community platform. Evoke Classics has been a huge success, quickly becoming a highly recognisable brand in the online classic car auction industry. The company's success is due in part to its innovative marketing campaign, which was led by Nerd Digital. The campaign focused on building brand awareness and generating leads through a variety of digital channels, including social media, search engine optimisation, and advertising. The CIM Global Marketing Excellence Awards recognise the best industry talent from across the world. Evoke Classics' win in the Best New Product/Service category is a testament to its innovative approach to marketing and its commitment to providing a superior customer experience. Sarah Crabtree, Sales Director of Evoke Classics, said: "We were thrilled to be finalists, so actually winning feels just fabulous! Having Nerd Digital on board has allowed Evoke Classics to make its mark in the auction industry. Noel and the team are clearly very passionate about what they do, bringing with them a wealth of knowledge and experience which Evoke Classics has been lucky enough to benefit from. It's all about teamwork." Paul Cunningham, commercial director at Evoke Classics, added: "Congratulations to the team for this remarkable accomplishment; it's a well-earned recognition of their ingenuity and hard work." Noel Anderson, founder of Nerd Digital, said: “It’s a bit of a cliché, but six years ago we started Nerd Digital around the kitchen table with the goal of working with clients who are looking to challenge the status quo. We first met Sarah at a classic car show, and instantly knew that this was an amazing opportunity with an incredible team. To go from strategy sessions, creating the brand, launching the product, fine-tuning campaigns, making sales, and then winning best new product / service with the leading marketing organisation in the UK – in just over two years – is no mean feat! We can’t wait to see how this brand grows in 2024 and beyond.” Chris Daly, chief executive of CIM, said: “Congratulations to all those who won, this year’s submissions have been excellent. I would like to thank our judges and sponsors, and all who have helped to make this event possible. It’s clear that the global marketing industry has once again risen to the occasion, crafting remarkable campaigns, and reaping the rewards for both organisations and agencies alike. The significance of professional marketing remains critical for enhancing commercial performance and nurturing talent.” Evoke Classics will be exhibiting at the NEC car show from 10-12th November (2023), where they will also be launching their 2024 classic car calendar, with the proceeds going to the charities the UK Sepsis Trust and Bone Cancer Research Trust.

According to business rates experts at Colliers, latest business rates appeal figures announced today reveal that the business rates system and in particular, CCA, the Check Challenge Appeal Business Rates Appeals System isn’t up to scratch with many businesses still struggling to get their business rates appeals through the system. According to government statistics, in the first sixth months of the new 2023 list (1st April to 30th September 2023), 30,950 Checks (the first part of the appeal process) were registered of which almost 40 %,12,160 still remain outstanding. Only 2,530 have progressed to the Challenge stage and of these Challenges, only 180 have been resolved (a low 7 %). In addition 8.3 % of all Challenges have been labelled as 'incomplete' by the VOA and therefore void. Given the difficulty for businesses in registering a Check in CCA in the first place, with the amount of detail businesses need to provide so that most businesses now have to use professional rating surveyors, Colliers says this level of rejection, often on a technicality, is unacceptable and shows how arduous this system is for ratepayers. Colliers also questions the system whereby the VOA has 4 months to decide whether a Challenge is valid, but on receiving the news that the Challenge is “incomplete” the rate payer or their adviser can, in many cases, only be given 24 hours to dispute this. Looking at the CCA stats for the 2017 list, also reported today, the picture becomes even more concerning. The latest figures reveal 37,470 Challenges against the 2017 list are still outstanding. This means almost seven years after the start of the 2017 rating list, 21% of the appeals submitted have not been resolved. “The VOA’s lack of progress in resolving these high appeal numbers should certainly raise eyebrows,“ says John Webber, Head of Business Rates at Colliers. John Webber continued "The figures today reveal that the VOA is seriously under pressure. Given the Government’s promise of three yearly revaluations, the next list will be in 2026 with a Valuation date of April 1st, 2024. The VOA will therefore need to get working on this next year. We believe the VOA is under resourced to deal with the new list and the backlog we are still seeing from the 2017 list as well as the current 2023 list . Against this background it is perhaps not surprising that there has been pressure to reduce the Challenges from the 2023 list- with so many now labelled 'incomplete' and thus void, despite the fact that most of these have been submitted with professional help.” "None of this bodes well for businesses trying to appeal their business rates.” He concludes, “The VOA keeps trying to frustrate ratepayers in appealing their rating assessments, but even with the hurdles in place businesses are continuing to challenge their assessments. The suggestion that CCA is working has been blown out of the water with these statistics. The burden of business rates is too high and the lack of transparency about how their bills are arrived at is the root cause of this shocking number of people trying to appeal their rate bills.”

Developer Charterpoint and housebuilder Snape Properties have jointly submitted a detailed planning application for a site near Louth. The 12-acre plot off Daisy Way is an extension to the popular Westfield Park and already has outline planning permission for up to 90 new properties. Now a detailed application has been submitted to East Lindsey District Council for the next stage of the development. The proposals are for 90 properties, including a mix of one, two, three and four bedroom homes, plus a children’s play area, surface water attenuation ponds, wildflower meadows, sustainable drainage and an amenity lawn for communal informal recreation. Adrian Goose, CEO of Charterpoint, said: “We are very pleased that Charterpoint and Snape Properties have jointly submitted a detailed planning application for this site off Daisy Way near Louth. In conjunction with Charterpoint, Snape Properties has built a flourishing community at Westfield Park and this additional plot will bring more much-needed homes to the town.” The site, which is bounded by the A16 Louth bypass to the north west and by Westfield Park to the south and east, will be accessed off Daisy Way and will include green infrastructure to provide an attractive quality environment for residents and visitors with consideration given to access for pedestrians and cyclists, enhancement of wildlife biodiversity, sustainable drainage solutions and promotion of use of outdoor spaces for improved mental and physical health and well-being. Open water, swales and ditches are also included as part of the sustainable drainage strategy to contribute to local biodiversity. Charterpoint, which is based at Edwalton near Nottingham, specialises in developing high-quality sustainable mixed-use schemes, first-class senior living accommodation, and primary care premises. Snape Properties is a Lincolnshire-based house builder.

Dryad Networks is using its vast experience in IT, electronics and telecommunications to solve the very real and devastating problem of wildfires. The organisation is disrupting the wildfire detection industry with the first major change in fire detection in over 50 years. Using a large-scale IoT network of solar-powered sensors to detect and locate wildfires, Dryad’s Silvanet system ensures that wildfires are detected and tackled before they take hold. The sensors not only detect the fire before it spreads, they also pinpoint the exact location enabling response teams to arrive on site much faster. There is no escaping it: The acceleration of climate change is increasing the incidence of wildfires. Each year, the length of the fire season extends, and more regions are impacted, resulting in tragic loss of life, billions in economic damage and catastrophic contributions to a global CO2 emissions crisis. Traditional detection and management have worked heroically for many years but the need for faster and more advanced wildfire detection methods has never been more evident. It’s also clear that it’s time for a radical new approach. Enter Dryad, which has introduced the ultimate low-cost solution that “smells” outdoor fires at the earliest possible stage. With potentially millions of sensors able to be deployed across millions of acres of forest to provide ultra-early detection, first responders will be able to identify, stop and contain fires before they become catastrophic. This is the first change in wildfire detection in over 50 years and signals a new era in the fight against the devastation caused by these fires. Traditional methods of fire detection in high-risk areas include wildfire cameras, watch towers and satellites, which have all played their part in detecting wildfires and will continue to do so. The problem is that none of these can detect a fire until it is already well underway. Indeed, usually when it has penetrated the tree canopy – at which point it has already taken hold and needs a massive response to get it under control. How It Works Dryad’s solar-powered sensors detect very small and subtle changes in the environment, such as increased levels of certain gases or organic compounds – if you like, they “sniff” the changes out. Embedded artificial intelligence (AI) enables the sensors to discern between real fire threats and potential false positives. In the event of a fire ignition, real-time alerts are generated to notify authorities, ensuring a rapid response. Early detection facilitates faster response and evacuation during a wildfire. The difference in the damage a fire can cause for every ten minutes it remains undetected is staggering. Sensor networks cover large areas, providing comprehensive and highly scalable fire monitoring. AI-supported sensors reduce false alarms, enhancing the reliability of fire detection. Continuous monitoring and data analysis improve fire prevention and resource allocation. By detecting fire threats within minutes, sensors provide a crucial window of opportunity for firefighters to get to where they need to be as quickly as possible. By pinpointing exactly where the fire started (based on which sensor or sensors triggered), most fires are able to be extinguished safely and easily and – crucially – are not able to spread out of control. If we want to slow climate change, we can’t just contain wildfires, we need to extinguish them earlier. Wildfires are one of the leading carbon pollutants. And climate change is making the problem worse. Frustratingly, the relationship between wildfires and climate change creates a vicious cycle where fires, once ignited, contribute back to climate change, which increases the likelihood of fires and so it continues. UK Application While it may seem large scale fires are the problem of Australia, Canada, or hot dry European countries, they are also a threat in the UK. In September this year, Dryad announced its collaboration with the National Trust, installing 50 ‘ultra-early’ wildfire detection sensors on Marsden Moor in West Yorkshire. The moor is a site of special scientific interest and a habitat for rare birds and plants. In recent years, fires on the moor have caused devastation to the landscape. One catastrophic fire, in April 2019, damaged 700 hectares of moorland and took four days to extinguish. It's estimated that it caused £500,000 worth of damage. A later fire in 2021 needed over 100 firefighters to tackle it – costing thousands and putting lives at risk. Now, Dryad’s Silvanet sensors are installed on fence posts on the moor and will detect changes in the atmosphere and send alerts to staff within minutes, reducing the response time and lessening the risk of damage to the landscape, its flora and fauna. This is the first application of the disruptive technology from Dryad within the UK but the devastating wildfires across Europe this summer should be a wakeup call that all countries need to be prepared to do more to combat the potential of more frequent and more devastating large-scale fires. Dryad is hoping that the National Trust’s installation will act as a catalyst for landowners and public bodies to take action to mitigate their own wildfire risk and reduce the costs of firefighting, through ultra-early detection. Carsten Brinkschulte, CEO of Dryad, says: “Time is everything when it comes to managing wildfires and our technology gives firefighters the earliest, most reliable warning coupled with an exact location. Therefore, our aim is to give firefighters the best chance of extinguishing a blaze before it gets out of control and, subsequently, protect the world’s vital forests, making wildfires and their devastating effects a thing of the past.”