WineGB has announced their inaugural WineGB Rising Stars Awards – an initiative to acknowledge and celebrate the next generation of UK wine industry professionals. Also announced is the very welcome return of The Vintners’ UK Wine Apprentice Award, awarded by The Vintners’ Company. Rising Star nominations cover categories across the wine industry. An impressive number of nominations were submitted for Viticulture and Winemaking, receiving 11 and 8 names respectively. Nominations were also received for those working in business, marketing and tourism. Special acknowledgement is also being awarded to a candidate contributing to a sustainable approach to their work. WineGB members and those in the wider wine trade were invited to nominate members of their team that demonstrate unwavering dedication, a commitment to improvement, and an exemplary work ethic, combined with impressive expertise in their field. The candidates are around the age of 30 and under, already working, and committed to a long-term career in the wine industry. The return of the Vintners’ UK Wine Apprentice Award brings a further opportunity for wine producers of the future. Generously funded by The Vintners’ Company, the purpose of the Award is to help an aspiring individual to learn more about wine production in the UK, providing an opportunity to undertake courses in viticulture and winemaking at Plumpton College in Sussex over a two-year period. The winning candidate will also be given the opportunity to study for a WSET qualification at an appropriate level. The award winners will be revealed at the WineGB Dinner hosted by the Vintners’ Company and taking place Vintners’ Hall on Wednesday 31st January. Nicola Bates, CEO of WineGB commented: “There is a wealth of skills and talent in our industry and it’s vital that we publicly acknowledge and celebrate the stars of the future who will continue to shape the industry." "We hope that recognition through these awards will motivate and inspire future generations. We also want to use these awards to help demonstrate the opportunities there are for a career in the wine industry of Great Britain.” Ian Harris MBE, Chairman of the Trade Liaison Committee of the Vintners’ Company added: “The growth, vision and quality we’re seeing in the UK wine sector is inspiring. The Vintners’ Company is delighted to continue its support for the industry. We’re particularly proud to help nurture the career of a future industry star through providing support to study at Plumpton College through The Vintners’ UK Wine Apprentice Award.”

The nominations for this year’s BRIT Awards with Mastercard were revealed in ‘Bring on The BRITs with Mastercard: The 2024 Nominations’, a 30 minute special streamed across the BRITs' official Instagram and Facebook. Host Yinka Bokinni took viewers through the category shortlists, with a few guest appearances from nominated artists and fellow broadcaster Jack Saunders. The winners - who will each receive an award designed this year by visual artist and painter Rachel Jones - will be revealed at The BRIT Awards with Mastercard on Saturday 2nd March at The O2 arena, broadcast live on ITV1 and ITVX. For 2024, The BRITs increased the number of nominees for both Artist of the Year and International Artist of the Year from five to ten, a change aimed at improving representation and inclusion. More than half (55%) of the 2024 BRITs nominations feature women – either as a solo artist or as part of an allwoman group. This figure rises to 57% when including women in mixed gender groups. A new genre award category R&B Act has been introduced for 2024, which along with Alternative/Rock Act, Dance Act, Pop Act, Hip Hop/Grime/Rap Act, collectively showcase the versatility, creativity and diverse styles of music in the UK. The winners of the genre awards will be determined by a public vote exclusively through Instagram, which will open on Thursday 1st February at 12 noon and close on Thursday 15th February at 6pm. To vote, fans can either head to the BRITs page on Instagram (@BRITs), and comment on the category Reel of their choice using an artist specific hashtag, or by creating a Reel and using the @BRITs tag, and the artist specific # in the caption. Further information on the vote will be announced soon. Taking the title of the most nominated artist in a single BRITs year, RAYE leads the charge with an incredible seven nominations in total – a first by any artist since The BRITs began in 1977, eclipsing the record to date of six held by Gorillaz (2002), Craig David (2001) and Robbie Williams (1999). In recognition of what has been a spectacular year for the independent artist, singer/songwriter and BRIT School graduate, she is nominated for: Artist of the Year, Mastercard Album of the Year, Best New Artist (along with Mahalia, Olivia Dean, Pink Pantheress and Yussef Dayes), Pop Act, R&B Act, and receives two nominations in Song of the Year with Mastercard. Six-time BRIT winner Dua Lipa receives three nominations this year; for Artist of the Year, Pop Act and Song of the Year with Mastercard, and is the first artist confirmed to perform on the main show on 2nd March. Dua Lipa last performed at The BRITs in 2021. Central Cee and J Hus both receive four nominations, with Central Cee up twice for Song of the Year with Mastercard. Along with RAYE, Dua Lipa, Central Cee and J Hus, this year’s Artist of the Year category also sees nominations for Arlo Parks, Dave, Fred again, JessieWare, Little Simz and Olivia Dean. Nominees for Mastercard Album of the Year include Blur, Little Simz and Young Fathers, who each receive three nominations in total. Also up for three awards are Calvin Harris, Dave and Olivia Dean. The International Artist of the Year category is another immense showdown of global talent; with nominees Asake, Burna Boy, Caroline Polachek, CMAT, Kylie Minogue, Lana Del Rey, Miley Cyrus, Olivia Rodrigo, SZA and Taylor Swift. Olivia, Miley and SZA are also all nominated for International Song of the Year. Other artists up for more than one award include: Fred again.., Mahalia, Pink Pantheress and Yussef Dayes. 2024 also sees the first BRIT nomination for The Rolling Stones in over a decade; having been nominated four times previously in 1977, 1995, 1996 and 2013. Other artists nominated for a 2024 BRIT award include: Becky Hill, Billie Eilish, CASISDEAD, Charli XCX, Doja Cat, Ed Sheeran, Foo Fighters, Lewis Capaldi, Noah Kahan, Paramore, Peggy Gou, Rema, Stormzy, Tate McRae and Tyla. In December, The BRITs announced the winner of the 2024 Rising Star supported by BBC Radio 1 award as The Last Dinner Party. They join the list of incredible artists who have won the award in previous years including Adele, Florence + The Machine, Sam Smith, Ellie Goulding, Emeli Sandé, Griff, and last year’s winner, FLO. The winners of Songwriter of the Year and Producer of the Year will be revealed over the coming weeks, along with other show announcements. Damian Christian, Managing Director and President of Promotions at Atlantic Records (part of Warner Music UK) and Chair of the BRIT Committee for 2024 said: “This year's BRIT nominees really highlight the incredible breadth and diversity within British music. From breaking artists to returning greats, and with artists spanning so many genres, this year's shortlist really feels like it has it all. I'd like to congratulate RAYE on her record-breaking seven nominations, as well as every other artist up for an award - I hope to see you all on the night!" Dr. Jo Twist OBE, BPI Chief Executive and Yolan Da Brown OBE DL, BPI Chair said in a joint statement: “We congratulate all the nominees on their deserved recognition of a brilliant year in music, and in particular RAYE on her exceptional achievement of a record seven nominations, underlining a truly outstanding 12 months for her." " It’s also wonderful that women overall have performed so strongly across so many of the awards categories. We shared in last year’s disappointment that women were not represented in the British Artist of the Year nominations, and it’s heartening to see such a strong showing in the BRITs 2024 nominations. With such an exciting new generation of diverse talent coming through, we hope and will continue to work towards more balanced representation increasingly becoming the norm rather than the exception.” The BRITs Voting Academy, responsible for determining the shortlists and the overall winners for The BRIT Awards (bar Rising Star, Songwriter and Producer awards which are voted on or decided by separate panels), is refreshed annually, drawing on updated member data, to ensure relevance and diversity across its participants. The Voting Academy is composed of approx. 1300 individuals drawn from across the music industry, including artists, managers, media, producers, publishers, record labels, retailers and more. For 2024, The Voting Academy achieved a balanced split of men and women and included a number of members who identified as non binary or who preferred not to specify their gender, whilst a quarter of its members identified as Black, Asian or ethnic minority background. The Academy and the voting process is overseen by Civica – an independent voting scrutineer. This year, The BRITs are teaming up with Music Declares Emergency to amplify the NO MUSIC ON A DEAD PLANET campaign. This campaign has the support of thousands of artists including some of the biggest names in music and this new partnership with The BRITs will give music fans a way to get involved in positive climate action. Music fans can get involved now by heading to nomusiconadeadplanet.org to sign up for monthly climate action challenges and music giveaways! Mastercard returns as headline partner of The BRIT Awards for the 26th year, bringing cardholders closer to their passion for music through a range of BRITs experiences. Mastercard continues to partner with the BRIT School to support and celebrate the next generation of creative talent. Also revealed today are new partnerships for The BRITs in 2024. Hilton will be this year’s Official Hotel Partner, and this collaboration will see the leading hospitality company associating with the biggest night in UK music with a unique ‘Stay on the Red Carpet’ moment, where nominees, performers and presenters will be invited to engage in some ‘pillow talk’ before their big night begins. Media were invited to an official Nominations Event earlier today at the London Hilton on Park Lane, which has recently undergone a multi-million-pound renovation. The partnership builds on Hilton’s ongoing commitment to supporting the music industry. In the UK, Hilton’s Secret Socials events have offered music fans and Hilton Honors members an exclusive opportunity to see global artists like they’ve never seen them before. BRITs fans will be able to bid for the eagerly anticipated first Hilton Secret Socials event of 2024, where lucky winners will be delighted with an intimate performance from a surprise BRIT nominated artist. There is a new shine at The BRITs this year. TRESemmé will debut at the awards as the Official Haircare Partner as well as named partner of the Best New Artist category. This partnership will coincide with the TRESemmé Lamellar Shine launch and include an on-site presence backstage at The BRITs with gifting opportunities, shiny content, influencer partnerships and much more. The BRIT Awards 2024 with Mastercard will take place on Saturday 2nd March - once again back in a primetime Saturday night slot - and will broadcast live on ITV1 and ITVX - from The O2 arena.

Fast-growing electronic waste specialist Intelligent Waste Management Ltd (iWaste) has made three strategic new hires as business demand increases. The Berkshire-based company has bolstered its IT and sales teams with the appointments of Dan Price, Joe Hartley and James Massey. Dan was previously an apprentice at iWaste, which provides electronic waste collection services, secure data destruction, electronic recycling equipment and WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) disposal for corporations, public sector organisations and businesses across the UK. He left seven years ago to explore other options and has now returned as IT Technician Team Leader, heading an IT department of four people which was created around him. iWaste Director Sam Prentice said: “Dan was previously with us as an apprentice at the start of his career and has returned to the fold with a wealth of experience in IT, business and essential life skills under his belt from other roles across the region." “We are glad to welcome Dan back home. He is a valuable team member, part of our senior management team and doing great things with his department – and is also responsible for IT assets and data security, which means hard drives, GDPR and items coming inside the building." “We interviewed many different people for the role and Dan was the outstanding candidate, a perfect fit with our business ethos. He is solid and hardworking, a natural leader and is applying a lot of the ideas he learned elsewhere." “Dan was one of our first apprentices in the early days of the business when we were very much in our infancy with just a few members of staff and one van on the road. I admire him that he has gone on this journey and is now back with us.” Dan commented: “I always regretted leaving, although I felt I needed to have different experiences. I am hugely proud of what I accomplished while I was away but I am glad to be back among the iWaste family." “It is almost as though I haven’t been away – except for the fact that the business has grown tremendously and we have smart new premises – and I have been welcomed back with open arms." “My aim is to not only run my department prudently, professionally and with care, but to ensure that iWaste continue to offer the second-to-none customer service for which we have become rightly renowned.” iWaste, headquartered at Ducks Nest Farm in Arborfield, near, Reading has also appointed keen sportsman and former Oxford United scholar Joe Hartley as Sales Executive, reporting to Sales Manager Ed Starnes. Part of the company’s growing sales team, he is tasked with building relationships, opening new avenues and generating revenue streams from new and existing clients. Sam added: “Joe is the most incredibly enthusiastic sales guy I have seen in 20 years in this business and has hit the ground running. He has augmented our really strong team, which is cohesive, hungry, competitive and extremely hardworking.” James Massey has also recently joined iWaste as a Junior IT Technician. The company, established in 2013, has also invested heavily in infrastructure, vans, people and a new bespoke, cloud-based management portal which drove an ambitious move to a paperless operation. Last year iWaste, which employs 35 people, also celebrated its 10th anniversary and moved to bigger premises outside Reading to facilitate strategic business growth.

A Bracknell entrepreneur whose business was inspired by her son following his brain tumour diagnosis, has been named among the UK’s Top 100 Most Impressive Female Founders. Kimberley Shamtally has made the list of Small Business Britain’s ‘f: Entrepreneur #IAlso100’  campaign, for her success with Muscle Mechanics. The business was established during the height of the pandemic in 2020 and produces pain-relief balms and mood-enhancing inhalers. The research and development of the hand-made muscle balms was based on a real life need to help her son Jenson overcome the pain he endured through rehabilitation after surgery caused long term complications for his mobility. Kim said: “During major surgery to remove the tumour, disaster struck. A brain injury developed into Posteria Fossa Syndrome. Jenson lost all mobility and couldn’t eat, sleep, walk or move his head. To most this would be the sort of devastating blow that would end a hero’s journey. But not Jenson." “He kept fighting. For two years he pushed and fought to regain his physical skills. However his nemesis then clawed its way back into his life – the tumour had returned.” She added: “Throughout Jenson’s process of recovery the Muscle Mechanics products have been incredibly helpful in keeping him calm.” As a sports massage therapist and aromatherapist, Kim Shamtally had been providing customised pain relief balms and soothing essential oil blends to her clients for 15 years to help ease muscle aches between massage sessions. Deeply aware that her work was not just helping relieve muscular aches and injury but also help support creeping mental illness that can come with struggling through muscular recovery, she worked to make these more widely available. It has also caught the attention of local football clubs looking to find ways to improve physical recovery from matches. Muscle Mechanics can be seen at various sporting events across the UK. The latest accolade follows on from a series of successes last year, including winning Product of the Year at The Business Success Recognition Awards; Female Entrepreneur of the Year finalist at The Surrey Business Awards and finalist for Innovation of the Year at last week’s Thames Valley Business and Community Awards when. She will now go on and compete for the national awards in April. Jenson himself won a True Inspirational Hero Award in London in 2022 and The Pride of Bracknell Forest Award last year. Jenson, now aged eight, has since undergone more than 70 weekly chemotherapy sessions and requires around-the-clock care but is now walking independently with the use of a walker. Kim has also worked with oncology patients at The Royal Surrey County Hospital. She added: “Combining exercise with the right recovery tools can improve the experience of how the body can cope with everyday aches and pains. More importantly, it keeps my son focused on his mission to become as physically independent as possible." “Creating Muscle Mechanics Balms is a family business where each person truly understands what it takes to become more resilient." “I hope that Jenson’s courageous and resilient energy serves as an example of how you can rise up from the worst of circumstances. I hope our products can help others in their own fight with pain, whether its big or small, mental or physical.” “This award is an incredible moment to shine the light on female business owners and their impact on local communities.” From AI companies to female-run tradeswoman platforms and sustainable fashion designers, the f: Entrepreneur ‘#IAlso100’ line-up particularly showcases trailblazing female founders who lead purpose-driven businesses alongside a roster of other responsibilities, such as volunteering, mentoring and community support. Launched in 2017 by Small Business Britain – the leading champion of small businesses in the UK - the f:Entrepreneur campaign aims to raise greater awareness of the impact of incredible female business owners across the country, and help provide inspiration and role models to the wider small business community. Michelle Ovens CBE, founder of Small Business Britain, said: “Congratulations to Kimberley and each of the phenomenal women featured in this year’s #IAlso100.”    “It is so important that we call out the incredible contribution of women running businesses across the UK. As well as growing economic prosperity, they are also having a tremendous, wider positive impact on local communities too. Despite all of the challenges of recent times, it is fantastic to see female entrepreneurship continuing to grow and flourish in the UK, and we must do all we can to encourage and build this further.”

Hampshire accountancy firm senior Steven Hughes is putting his audit work on hold for a week by flying to Albania to participate in the biggest event on the world amateur snooker calendar. Emerging green baize star Steven, 22, who works at HWB Chartered Accountants hopes to pocket the World Snooker Federation (WSF) Championship title which offers direct qualification to the World Snooker Tour. The prestigious open tournament is being staged in Golem, south of the capital Tirana, from February 3 to 11, with Steven drawn in a tough group of four in the 210-player competition. Included in the tournament line-up is Tony Knowles, a three times semi-finalist in the World Professional Snooker Championship in the 1980s and ranked second in the world in 1984/85 behind Steve Davis. Steven said: “I can’t wait to get started and have been counting down the days until the tournament starts. It really is the biggest occasion in the world for amateur players and a stepping stone to the professional game.” Having previously played the same tournament in Malta and Sheffield, Steven is travelling with a group of snooker-playing colleagues to Albania. He is taking just one cue, his ‘prized possession’ and packs it in a ski case for safety. Steven, who joined HWB Chartered Accountants in Chandlers Ford four-and-a-half years ago aged 17 straight from Barton Peveril College, Eastleigh, has the advanced section of the ACA (Associate Chartered Accountant) exams to complete to become fully qualified. His audit work encompasses a wide range of sectors, including sports, maritime, logistics, automotive, leisure industrial and manufacturing and he hopes to eventually work in an advisory capacity for businesses utilising the skills so far learned. He said: “HWB is a really good firm to work for. The training programme is exceptional and I believe learning while working is definitely the best way forward, quicker than purely academic routes, and I would recommend it to anyone considering a career in accountancy.” Officially ‘retired’ from junior snooker because of his age, Steven plays and practises at Churchills Club in Eastleigh and Chandlers Ford Central Club and competes at least three times a week in local leagues, including the Southampton & District Social Clubs Super League. Sponsored by Aquatec Plumbing & Heating of Chandlers Ford, he is advised by Hampshire-based coach Tim Dunkley and renowned performance coach James Lake, who is based in Beijing, China. Steven has also now gained his World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) tournament director qualification – the youngest person in Europe to do so – meaning he now has the knowledge to run world-officiated tournaments. He is also currently the youngest qualified referee for the English Partnership for Snooker and Billiards (EPSB). Referring to his sporting heroes, he said: “I still admire Ronnie O’Sullivan – the greatest of all time. Obviously, he occasionally says some stupid things – such as his recent run-in with Ali Carter at the Masters final – but he has earned the right to be a bit arrogant and he certainly draws attention to snooker.” HWB Director Michaela Johns said: “We wish Steven all the luck in the world and hope he will bring home the trophy for all his colleagues to see. We will be following the tournament online to check his progress." “He is a popular and valued member of staff who is dedicated and hard-working; seeing him compete in sport at the highest level internationally gives us great pride.” Chartered accountants HWB, based at Chandler’s Ford, near Southampton, provides business and tax advice. ETL GLOBAL, HWB’s parent company, has expanded its network with the addition of AEcO Business Solutions in Tirana, Albania. The firm specialises in guiding businesses at all stages of their lifecycles, offering expertise in tax, accounting, and legal services. This integration underscores ETL GLOBAL’s commitment to expanding its footprint in the Balkans, aligning with the overarching goal of being the number one service provider for SME all across Europe.

Breakfast, often hailed as the most important meal of the day, plays a crucial role in shaping our overall well-being. The significance of breakfast extends far beyond the ritual of starting the day with food. It has profound effects on physical health, cognitive function, and even emotional stability. Let's take a look at the importance of breakfast and why making it a non-negotiable part of your daily routine can set the tone for a healthier, more productive life. Fuel For The Body Breakfast is aptly named, as it literally means "breaking the fast" that our bodies go through during the night. Overnight, as you sleep, your body continues to burn calories for essential functions. Skipping breakfast can disrupt this process, leaving you with lower energy levels and potential overeating later in the day. A Nutrient Boost A well-balanced breakfast provides essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, fibre, and proteins. Incorporating fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins can jumpstart your day with a nutritional advantage. These nutrients are vital for maintaining a healthy body weight, supporting immune function, and promoting strong bones. Brainpower And Concentration For students and professionals alike, breakfast can be the secret weapon for a productive day. Studies have consistently shown that a nutritious morning meal enhances cognitive function, memory, and concentration. This is particularly important for children and teenagers, as their developing brains rely heavily on the energy derived from breakfast. Weight Management Paradoxically, eating breakfast can aid in weight management. When you skip breakfast, you're more likely to experience intense hunger later in the day, which often leads to overeating or making unhealthy food choices. By contrast, a balanced breakfast can help control your appetite and prevent excessive calorie intake. Mood And Emotional Well-Being The influence of breakfast extends to our emotional state as well. Missing this essential meal can lead to irritability and mood swings, impacting not only your well-being but also those around you. A good breakfast can help stabilise blood sugar levels, ensuring a more even-keeled mood throughout the day. Social And Cultural Significance: Beyond the nutritional aspect, breakfast has significant social and cultural importance. It is often a time for family bonding, sharing stories, or simply enjoying a moment of tranquility before the hustle and bustle of the day. Many cultures have unique breakfast traditions that reflect their heritage and values. In a world that often seems to be moving at an ever-increasing pace, breakfast offers a moment of respite and nourishment. Its importance, however, goes beyond the morning ritual; it sets the stage for a day of physical vitality, mental alertness, and emotional stability. So, next time you contemplate skipping breakfast in favor of a few extra minutes of sleep or a hurried morning, remember the manifold benefits of this humble meal. A nutritious breakfast can be the cornerstone of a healthier, happier life.

Justin Grace, Men’s Sprint Podium Potential Coach for the Great Britain Cycling Team, has today announced that he will be stepping down from the role after nine and a half years with the team. Having made his name in the coaching world, working initially with his home nation of New Zealand followed by the French team, Justin brought his proven methods and experience to GBCT in 2014. Since then, he has played a key role in the development of the world class track sprint programme, supporting the likes of Sir Jason Kenny and the men’s team sprint squad, Becky James and Katy Marchant to seven Olympic medals between them. Grace’s most recent role has seen him working within the GBCT pathway, nurturing and developing Britain’s future track stars to national and international success, including coaching the men’s team sprint to the under-23 European track team sprint title in 2022. Great Britain Cycling Team Performance Director, Stephen Park CBE, said: “Over his time with GBCT Justin has been influential in his work across all levels of the programme, from podium superstars to the stars of tomorrow. He has been a great asset to the team over many years and we have benefitted hugely from his work in our pathway, supporting Britain’s future talent, building riders’ abilities on the bike as well equipping them with the off-bike skills that will prepare them for careers as elite athletes." “Justin has been a popular and valued member of the team for almost a decade, during which the team has enjoyed incredible success and I want to thank him for his important contribution to the programme and wish him well in his next role.” Justin Grace, Men’s Sprint Podium Potential Coach, said: “My nine and a half years with the Great Britain Cycling Team has flown by, and like most people involved in high performance sport, I have felt joy, cheers, sweated and cried during this time." "To have worked with the world’s best athletes and staff has been a privilege and to have been able to nurture many athletes across the pathway into world class racers and coach some of those to their greatest career achievements has been a great honour.” Justin Grace will leave his role on 26 February 2024 following the British National Track Championships in Manchester to join USA Cycling as Sprint Talent and Pathway Coach.

A former Williams test driver, Jonathan reunites with the team after building and managing his own historic Formula 1 events company where he acquired and restored historic cars. Stepping into this new role, Jonathan will lead Williams Heritage to connect the team’s rich history – including nine constructors’ world championships, seven drivers’ championships and 114 race wins – with the present. Williams Heritage was created in 2014 to manage, preserve, and celebrate Williams Racing’s iconic legacy, which spans almost half a century and includes some of the sport’s most impressive machinery. The team maintains a fleet of cars dating from the team’s first Formula 1 season as a constructor in 1978 to cars of this current generation, and supports the running of heritage cars at events such as the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Jonathan has a personal connection to Williams’ past, having served as test driver in 2008 when Nico Rosberg guided the FW30 to podium finishes in Australia and Singapore. His professional racing career has included competing in the Le Mans 24hrs and GT1 World Championship as well as Historic F1. Jonathan Kennard, Heritage Director: "I am honoured to be joining Williams Racing, and it is an immense privilege to lead the Heritage Team. My extensive involvement in racing, both as a driver and in historics, has prepared me well for this role. I look forward to maximising the opportunities within our world-class operation and collection." Sven Smeets, Sporting Director: “We’re delighted to welcome Jonathan to the Williams Heritage team. His background is very impressive and gives him a unique perspective on how to make the most of our collection. Jonathan’s role will be pivotal in honouring the team’s decorated history, allowing us to take inspiration from the innovation and passion that has defined us throughout the years.”

Red Roses international Sadia Kabeya extending her Loughborough Lightning contract highlights the Club’s intention to retain its top talent, says Head Coach Nathan Smith. Flanker Kabeya, capped 13 times by England, has become the latest Lightning player to commit to a new deal after announcements this week confirming that Cath O’Donnell, Lilli Ives Campion and Bo Westcombe-Evans had all also extended their contracts. The 21-year-old joined in 2021, making her debut against former club Wasps, and has gone on to make 37 appearances for Loughborough, scoring 12 tries. After playing age-grade rugby for her country, Kabeya made her senior England debut in the 2021 autumn internationals against Canada. “First and for most, retaining a world-class talent like Sadia shows the intention of Loughborough Lightning moving forward,” said Smith. “Her performances speak for themselves." “I don’t feel that she is anywhere near the potential she could reach, and it is really important to keep these kinds of players, because it shows we are moving forward, and we are really lucky to have her." “Defensively, Sadia is exceptional, which is something she has improved on over the last six months. Her tackle selection has also improved, she is extremely dominant in that area of the game, and a strong ball carrier going forward. She is the full package.” Kabeya’s performances in her debut season at Lightning earned her the Rugby Players’ Association Allianz Premier 15s Player of the Year in 2022, and she was part of the Red Roses squad for the delayed 2021 Rugby World Cup in New Zealand. Her displays in England’s 2023 Six Nations Grand Slam – when she made 65 tackles, carried 53 times and beat 16 defenders – were recognised with the RPA’s England Women’s Player of the Year Award. After missing out on last autumn’s inaugural WXV1 tournament in New Zealand due to injury, Kabeya returned to Lightning duty and hit the ground running in the 2023/24 campaign. Despite playing in only six of the eight rounds so far, she tops the league’s dominant tackles (12) and average tackles per game (20.1) charts and has made the fourth most tackles (109). “I feel like I have come on leaps and bounds as a player while at Lightning and I still have so much more to learn,” said Kabeya. “I’ve gone on to get a few caps for England, and I put that down to my progression from being at Lightning." “Nathan has been great since he has come in. He really solidifies what he wants from us a team and he has put that into action. He is also really invested with the team and really invested with the players. Personally, he is there for one-to-one stuff, talking about things that I want to work on and it’s always good to have a hands-on coach.” Kabeya, who is in the second year of a degree in Sports Science with Coaching and Physical Education at Loughborough University, scored her first tries of the current season when she bagged a brace against Trailfinders Women in Allianz Premiership Women’s Rugby Round 9. Red Roses Head Coach John Mitchell named her as one of five Lightning players involved in a three-day training camp held this week at St George’s Park ahead of the Six Nations. “Having loads of internationals throughout the side, shows our strength as a team,” added Kabeya. “The way we play is inviting for other players of different nations to come and play here and that is credit to the Lightning coaching team.” Lightning are not back in action until Saturday 10 February when Leicester Tigers are the visitors to cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens (kick-off: 2pm). Focusing on the Club’s aims for the second half of the season, Kabeya said: “We are targeting that top four. The start of the season was a bit rocky for us but things are starting to click with a few new players coming into the squad and a new coaching staff." “We are now getting into gear and coming off the back of a few good wins. So, we are definitely targeting a top four spot, but taking it game by game.”

Huddersfield-based walking group “We In Front” is to be the subject of a forthcoming BBC Radio 4 programme. A fixture of the Radio 4 schedule, “Ramblings” stars popular presenter Clare Balding joining notable and interesting people for a walk through the countryside. The 30-minute show, featuring a walk to the top of Huddersfield’s Castle Hill, will be broadcast at 3.00 on Thursday 15 February. 18 members of the group joined Clare for the brisk 3 hour jaunt along muddy tracks and bridleways, on one of the few dry days of this Winter. They were rewarded at the top with a bracing breeze and panoramic views of West Yorkshire. They finished off with a West Indian style picnic and a calypso sing-song by some of the many musicians who make up We In Front. We In Front began life in 2020 in the depths of the Covid Lockdown. Lowerhouses resident Errol Hamlet (69) was bored and frustrated but was inspired to see a neighbour taking advantage of her 60 minutes outdoors with vigorous walking. He’d never before seen the point of walking for its own sake, but once he started he felt like he didn’t want to stop. Soon he was attracting the attention of fellow West Indian friends and, as lockdown eased, Errol found he had a team of hiking converts around him. They walked and walked, often going astray as they plunged off-road into the fields and thickets around Huddersfield. But they figured that as long as they stayed within sight of Castle Hill, they could never get completely lost. Since then they’ve grown to a membership of over thirty, and they walk 4 times a week, catering for people of all abilities from flat rambles to scaling the most rugged terrain in the Pennines. They reckon they are probably the most active group of West Indian pensioners walking anywhere in the UK. Whilst still drawing most of its membership from the Windrush Generation, the group includes walkers of diverse ethnic backgrounds. Says Errol Hamlet: “I used to have severe joint problems and could barely get down the street. I was feeling pretty sorry for myself, but since I took up regular walking in this atmosphere of laughter and music, I’ve felt like I’m born again. It was lovely to host Clare Balding, and a great endorsement of what we’ve achieved.” Group Secretary Cynthia Matheson added: “I’ve lived in Huddersfield all my life but it’s only since I joined We In Front that I’ve realised what a lovely area we live in. It’s given me the confidence to explore the countryside around us, and now every time we go out it’s like a new adventure.” Before leaving Clare Balding said to Errol: “I loved being part of your group. I'm quite jealous because you go out walking so much. But next time I'm in the area I'll know you'll be out there, so I'll come and find you.”

A prestigious event at London’s House of Commons this week marked the launch of a national awards campaign to celebrate some the country’s most inspirational female achievers. The sixth – and biggest - Ladies First Professional Development Awards, will highlight success stories as well as raise funds for The Giles Trust Brain Tumour Fund at its awards ceremony in the summer. The Awards are headed up by Ladies First directors Tracey McAtamney from Balsall Common and Karen Massey from Leamington. A host of new categories are among the 20 being contested this year, including Sustainable Business Leader, Trailblazer of the Year and Inclusivity Leadership Award. The gongs also honour, among others, Start-up of the Year, Excellence In Technology and Innovation, Excellence In Health and Wellbeing, Charity/Community Champion, Campaign of the Year, Family Business of the Year, Business Resilience Award and Business Woman of the Year, as well as seeing the return of the popular men’s category, Man of the Year. Guests at the launch event, heard from host and speaker Colleen Fletcher, Coventry’s first female MP for 36 years – and last year’s recipient of The Ladies First Lifetime Achievement Award. Colleen served on Coventry City Council for 13 years from 1992 and as an MP for nine years. She is also Vice Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Groups on Blood Cancer; Cancer; Homelessness; Mental Health; and Pancreatic Cancer, causes close to her heart. Recently announcing her intention to step down from Westminster at the next general election, she said: “I think awards are very important. They make people feel valued and it’s important that as many people as possible hear these women’s stories.” This year’s awards are also supporting The Giles Trust Brain Tumour Fund, funded in 2015 by former England cricketer Ashley Giles MBE and his wife Stine, who was diagnosed with three brain tumours over 12 years. The charity raises funds for research, pioneering equipment and support for patients. The awards are sponsored by Janine Edwards Wealth Management in Berkswell and Midlands-based recruitment agency Pertemps and headed up by Ladies First’s Tracey McAtamney and her newly-appointed co-director, Karen Massey. Tracey has herself been recognised nationally for her work with the networking group as well as her charity The Surviving Bereavement Foundation, which provides practical and emotional support for those coping with loss. Tracey said: “Every year we look forward to championing women who deserve recognition but who don’t go looking for the spotlight, so we want to shine it on them." "This year’s awards are going to be the Ladies First’s biggest and brightest celebration of these women yet and we’re incredibly excited to be partnering with such amazing individuals such as Colleen and Stine, who set the tone perfectly at the launch day, along with the incredible setting of The House of Commons.” Finalists will be invited to an independent judging day at Mallory Court in Leamington on April 8th before the glittering awards night at IXL Dallas Burston Polo Club on June 13th. Closing date for nominations is March 12th. For further information about how to nominate, visit:

Seven in ten people say they are not confident the UK will meet its 2050 net zero milestone, according to a new survey of nearly 6,000 adults. The findings come from the latest State of the State, an annual report on attitudes to government and public services published by Deloitte and Reform, an independent think tank. This year’s report, which includes a survey by Ipsos UK, has a special focus on the country’s path to net zero, exploring levels of public confidence in the UK’s progress, its ability to meet its net zero commitments and their own willingness to make sustainable lifestyle changes. Confidence levels in whether the UK will reach its target for achieving net zero emissions across the economy by 2050 were low – only 23% said they are very or fairly confident the UK will meet the target while 70% said the opposite. The research found that younger people are significantly more likely than older age groups to believe the goal will be met (although still pessimistic overall). A third of 16-34-year-olds (33%) surveyed are confident about reaching net zero targets, compared to just 13% of the 55-64 age group and 14% of the 65-75 age group. Achieving Net Zero A third pointed to recycling and reducing household waste (35%) as making the biggest difference to people having a more sustainable lifestyle, the top priority from a list of 11 different options. Changes such as flying less (16%) or buying an electric car instead of a petrol or diesel (16%) are much further down the public’s priority list. A fifth (21%) of the public said they would change their shopping habits (such as sticking to seasonal produce). When asked which actions they might personally take, people aged 55-75 are more likely to say they plan to recycle more (58%), drive less (24%) and fly less (20%) compared to other age groups. Whereas younger people, aged 16-34, are more likely than older groups to say they will switch to a more environmentally friendly way of heating their home (16%). There are also some sizable differences by gender, with women being more likely than men to say they expect to change their lifestyles in several measures; over half of the women surveyed (56%) said they would recycle and reduce household waste more, compared to 44% of men who would do the same. When asked about which actions government could take to have the biggest impact on emissions, the top answer was to switch energy use away from fossil fuels (45%). In contrast, when asked about what they personally would do, only 16% of the public said they plan to use more environmentally friendly methods of heating their own homes, such as replacing gas boilers with heat pumps or using more insulation. Other priority actions the government could take included the encouragement of greener transport (29%), but when asked if they are likely to buy an electric car instead of petrol or diesel – only 12% of people said they are likely to do so in the next couple of years. Jayson Hadley, UK head of government and public services at Deloitte, said: “Our survey outlined two conclusions about the general public mood on achieving net zero: it's a priority, but not something they expect will massively change their lifestyles." “It’s also notable that bigger actions involving individual changes of behaviour are much lower down the public’s list. However, the cost of living crisis may be having an impact here because many of the measures people can take require money." “All of this suggests there is more work to do in order to convince the public that net zero is achievable and that this relies on their participation. There needs to be a broader shift towards more sustainable lifestyles and environmentally conscious public policy, if the UK is to make its transition to a greener economy.” Public Concern Grows For Immigration, Infrastructure & NHS Waiting Lists For the second year running, the cost of living crisis is the public’s top concern, with nearly eight in ten people (78%) citing it as a priority for improvement in the next few years. The next biggest issue for the public is the NHS, where worries about waiting lists have grown from 66% in the previous survey (September 2022) to 73% now. The issues the public believe will get worse in the next few years also include NHS waiting lists, with 59% of the public saying this, followed by the cost of living (55%) and housing (53%). Other notable shifts since last year’s State of the State are around immigration and the country’s infrastructure. The percentage of the public who want to see improvements in how the UK controls its borders has risen in the past year from 37% to 43%, and the percentage concerned about the UK’s infrastructure has risen from 29% to 36%. On tax and spending, the survey found that the UK public’s attitude is split. Three in ten (31%) said the UK should aim for lower taxes and lower public spending, but only 17% think that will happen in the next few years. In contrast 30% would favour higher taxes to fund higher public spending and similar (31%) expect this government to do this. Charlotte Pickles, Director at Reform, said: “The public are deeply concerned about the state of public services, but most worrying for politicians, not only is there a sense that things are getting worse, the public do not believe things will improve any time soon. Yet at the same time, there is little appetite for more spending. That’s a difficult circle for any government to square.” Public Priorities Remain Consistent Across The Nations Overall, across the nations in the UK, people in Scotland (30%) and Wales (24%) are slightly more optimistic about their government’s ability to deliver on net zero, compared to the UK government. The majority however are still not confident the goals will be met, according to the survey. The top two priorities of cost of living and NHS waiting lists are consistent across the four nations, but there are some differences on other areas. Most notable of all are that concerns around crime (48%) and immigration (45%) are significantly higher in England than the UK average. In Scotland the third biggest concerns are housing, growth and climate change (all 46%), in Wales the third issue is jobs and economy (48%) and in Northern Ireland it is social care for the elderly and vulnerable (49%).