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The Awards are dedicated to applauding the accomplishments of women who are carving a path in the tech industry, aiming to challenge perceptions and spotlight the pioneering women shaping the tech realm. By doing so, they strive to encourage more women to enter the field and realise their potential in dynamic, innovative and fulfilling tech careers. The winners will be announced at a ceremony on 9 October 2023 at the Birmingham Eastside Rooms, with Aston University as headline sponsors alongside Methods - An Alten Company. Professor Aleks Subic, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Aston University, said: “Aston University is a proud sponsor of the Midlands Women in Tech Awards, a sector where women are traditionally underrepresented. These awards go some way in addressing this inequality by raising awareness and acknowledging our wonderful women innovators in the tech sector." “I am also delighted to see that members of our own staff have been named as finalists - Professor Vladlena Benson and Dr Anitha Chinnaswamy from our Cybersecurity Innovation (CSI) Research Centre, as well as our Advanced Prototyping Facility team who join other alumnae and friends of Aston University on the shortlist.” Co-founder of MojoStack Ltd and Aston University alumna Janani Prasad, who graduated with an MSc Entrepreneurship in 2022, said: “Being a finalist of the Midlands Women in Tech Awards is not just a personal honour but a testament to the collective efforts of women in the tech industry. Tech is a dynamic and innovative field, and I'm delighted to represent women who are breaking barriers and making meaningful contributions." “This recognition is a reminder that diversity is essential in driving innovation, and I am proud to be a part of a community that is breaking barriers and inspiring the next generation of women in tech.”

As organisations worldwide grapple with the ongoing challenges of securing remote workforces and combatting evolving cyber threats, HLB has released its annual cybersecurity report, Uniting People and AI: The future of cyber resilience, which shines a light on the pressing need for advanced security measures in the face of relentless cyber adversaries harnessing artificial intelligence (AI). In a comprehensive survey conducted in August 2023, HLB gathered insights from 750 senior IT professionals, providing a current snapshot of the cyber-threat landscape and highlighting the proactive steps IT leaders have taken to bolster cyber-resilience. To ensure long-term protection, the report finds that organisations must focus on the three pillars of cyber-resilience: rapid response, regular training and comprehensive monitoring. Jim Bourke, HLB Global Technology Advisory Services Leader, said: “Companies should be continually evaluating the solutions that they deploy to train and educate employees, ensuring that they are taking advantage of the latest technology to ultimately protect their organisation”. Key findings include: Improving Response Speeds To New Cyber Challenges The advent of remote and hybrid work arrangements has amplified the urgency of cybersecurity. While 57% of IT leaders admit to not being initially prepared for the challenges of remote work, an impressive 88% managed to adapt their cybersecurity strategies effectively in response to the pandemic. Initiatives such as providing secure access through virtual private networks (VPNs), deploying secure cloud data exchange tools, and implementing regular cyber training have played pivotal roles in this transformation. Cybersecurity And Awareness Training – Non-Negotiable To cultivate a culture of high-security accountability, IT leaders should focus on changing core human behaviours through regular education and proactive coaching. While 87% of companies have some form of cyber training in place, only 18% have ongoing awareness programmes that include regular formal training, simulated phishing attacks, and consistent communication. Comprehensive Monitoring For The New Landscape AI is becoming increasingly integral to business operations, with 50% of business leaders identifying AI as the most important technology for their businesses in the next five years. However, AI, when in the wrong hands, poses new security risks. The rapid pace of technological innovation in AI, particularly generative AI, has raised concerns among 89% of business leaders. Recognising the gravity of AI-related risks, 34% express significant concern. Abu Bakkar, HLB Chief Innovation Officer said: “While AI plays a pivotal role in cybersecurity, organisations should not place unquestionable trust in technology. Educating and managing human behaviour remains as crucial as ever. By combining technological innovations in cybersecurity with ongoing investment in people and processes, organisations can achieve the best security outcomes, solidifying their position as leaders in the industry.” In this ever-changing cybersecurity environment, organisations must remain vigilant, adaptable, and proactive in their approach to safeguarding their digital assets. Moreover, organisations should consider the implications of AI in both the threat landscape and potential solutions, while also recognising the need to educate and manage human behaviour in the context of evolving technology. By combining technological innovations with investments in people and processes, organisations can strive for optimal security outcomes in this dynamic cyber landscape. Download and read a full copy of the report below:

A Leeds-based business has secured a unique partnership with the PGMOL, to spearhead the use of drone technology within top Premier League football referee training programmes, to coincide with the kick-off of the new season. The UK’s leading drone provider, Coptrz is working with the PGMOL, the body responsible for the management and development of officials in English professional football, to implement drones within practical-based programmes benefitting top referees such as Michael Oliver and Anthony Taylor. The core aim is to widen the training and development of officials in professional football by building on the current video analysis provision offered to both referees and assistant referees. PGMOL recently opened the doors of its pre-season training camp at Loughborough to show how it is harnessing Coptrz’s drone technology to enhance match officials’ coaching programme. Using both the DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise, and the DJI M30 drones, PGMOL can capture game-realistic situations from a bird’s eye perspective during its regular training camps; footage of which is then analysed in real time and off the pitch to help referees and assistant referees, and their coaches, work on different aspects of their game. In particular, this focuses on positioning and improving sight lines to gain the optimum angle to make decisions during games. George Burne, business development director at Coptrz based in Leeds, said: “Teaming up with the PGMOL is a key milestone for Coptrz as a business and will really demonstrate the positive impact drone technology can have at the highest level of the professional game. We look forward to working with PGMOL to provide referees and assistant referees in football with even greater analysis within their regular training scenarios.” Adam Carter, Head of Performance Analysis at PGMOL, said: “The use of technology in sport is constantly evolving and we are committed to ensuring we remain at the cutting edge of innovation." “The introduction of drones into our training programme has meant that we can now capture game scenarios from a new and beneficial viewpoint, which is playing an important part in preparing our officials for their fixtures both at home and across the world." “There’s been a lot of investment into the coaching structure at PGMOL in recent months and this technology is another positive step to continuing to provide officials with the best possible tools to perform on matchdays.”

Drones, once relegated to the realm of military applications, have taken flight in the civilian world, transforming industries and our daily lives. These unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have rapidly evolved, offering an array of uses that extend far beyond their initial conception. In a short period period of time drones are making an appearance in all facets of modern day life so let's take a look at the remarkable journey of drones, their current status, and their future potential. From Military Origins Drones were initially developed for military reconnaissance and combat purposes. However, their transition into civilian life was swift. Today, drones find applications in areas such as agriculture, environmental monitoring, search and rescue, and even package delivery. The ability to reach difficult-to-access places and gather data has made them invaluable tools for various industries. Technological Advancement The progression of drone technology has been astounding. Modern drones are equipped with high-resolution cameras, advanced sensors, and even AI-driven capabilities. These enhancements have opened up possibilities for tasks like precision agriculture, aerial photography, and disaster response. Changing the Face of Photography Photography enthusiasts and professionals alike have embraced drones as a game-changer. With the ability to capture breath-taking aerial shots, drones have revolutionised the art of photography and videography. Aerial footage has become a staple in the film and real estate industries and has added a whole new layer to the capturing of incredible imagery too. Eco-Friendly Agriculture Drones have become vital in modern agriculture. They allow farmers to monitor crops, assess soil quality, and even apply precise amounts of fertilisers and pesticides. This not only boosts crop yields but also reduces the environmental impact of farming practices and saves a significant amount of time too which can then be used elsewhere on the farm. Public Safety and Search and Rescue In emergency situations, drones play a pivotal role. They can swiftly assess disaster-affected areas, locate survivors, and transmit vital data to rescue teams. Their deployment has saved lives during natural disasters and other emergencies and enables faster response times and the ability to check areas that might otherwise be inaccessible to the human response teams on the ground. The rise of drones has also brought forth concerns about privacy. As these devices can capture images and videos from the sky, regulators and the public have raised questions about how to strike a balance between their utility and individual privacy rights and these discussions are likely to continue for years to come too. Despite privacy concerns, the increasing availability, affordability and number of applications and situations in which they can be used, drones are poised to play an even more significant role in our lives. Beyond just being tools, they are becoming a part of our transportation infrastructure. Companies like Amazon and UPS are exploring drone deliveries. Additionally, urban air mobility projects aim to transform cities' transportation systems and they are being more widely used to monitor the environment and changes associated with climate change. The growth of drones is a testament to human innovation and our desire to overcome limitations. From military roots to civilian applications, drones have changed the way we approach various industries, including agriculture, photography, and public safety. As technology continues to advance, we can expect drones to take on even more diverse roles, shaping the future in ways we can only imagine. However, with their increasing prevalence, it is crucial to address the ethical and privacy concerns that come hand in hand with their remarkable capabilities. The evolution of drones continues to be an exciting journey that promises to shape our world in numerous ways.

In an increasingly interconnected world, the importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated. As cyber threats continue to evolve and become more sophisticated, individuals, organisations, and governments must prioritise their efforts to protect sensitive information and digital assets. This is where Cybersecurity Awareness Month comes into play. Every October, this global initiative serves as a reminder to individuals and organisations alike to enhance their cybersecurity posture and promote a safer digital environment for all. The Origins of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, often referred to as National Cybersecurity Awareness Month (NCSAM) in the United States, was first observed in October 2004. This annual campaign was initiated by the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA) in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Over the years, its influence has grown, reaching a global audience and raising awareness about the importance of cybersecurity in our daily lives. Each year, Cybersecurity Awareness Month focuses on a set of themes and issues relevant to the current cybersecurity landscape. These themes are designed to educate and engage individuals and organisations in discussions and activities that promote safer online practices. Past themes have included topics like data privacy, ransomware prevention, securing the Internet of Things (IoT), and more. The primary objectives of Cybersecurity Awareness Month are: Education : Promote cybersecurity education and awareness at all levels, from individuals to businesses and governments. Prevention : Encourage proactive measures to mitigate cyber threats and vulnerabilities. Resilience : Promote the development of robust incident response plans to minimise the impact of cyberattacks. Collaboration : Foster collaboration among stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector companies, and the public. Inclusivity : Ensure that cybersecurity awareness is accessible to all, regardless of age, gender, or background. Throughout October, a wide range of activities and initiatives take place to support the goals of Cybersecurity Awareness Month. These may include: Webinars and Workshops : Organisations often host webinars and workshops to educate employees, customers, and the public about cybersecurity best practices. Awareness Campaigns : Governments and businesses run awareness campaigns through social media, websites, and traditional media to reach a broad audience. Training and Certification Programmes : Many institutions offer cybersecurity training and certification programmes to enhance individuals' skills and knowledge. Hackathons and Competitions : Cybersecurity challenges and competitions are organised to engage enthusiasts and sharpen their cybersecurity skills. Community Engagement : Local events and community engagement initiatives promote cybersecurity discussions among peers. Cybersecurity Awareness Month is a vital annual event that reminds us of the ever-present need to safeguard our digital lives. In a world where cyber threats are constantly evolving, staying informed and proactive is key to protecting ourselves and our digital assets. By participating in the various activities and initiatives during this month, individuals, organisations, and governments can contribute to a safer and more secure digital environment for everyone. Businesses are encouraged to get involved, to share the messages about best practice when it comes to IT and associated processes and to take the opportunity to reflect on their own businesses, the IT set up and to review any areas of concern and risk, putting in place plans to mitigate them as the threats are not going to go away.

Works have commenced on the University of Edinburgh’s Queen’s Medical Research Institute (QMRI) which will see the creation of new research spaces to address major disease challenges. Robertson Construction Central East is delivering the alteration and refurbishment works. Located next to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Little France, the five-storey research institute is undergoing refurbishments to its ground, first and second floors in order to create new upgraded research spaces to meet home office licence requirements and to accommodate relocating research groups. The QMRI is made up of three strategic research centres: Cardiovascular Science, Inflammation Research and Reproductive Health, each addressing major disease challenges. The recently commenced works comprise a state-of-the-art electrophysiology research support space, relocation of the existing mass spectrometry facility and improvements to the laboratories. QMRI will also benefit from finishes to the interior alongside building services involving lift, mechanical, electrical and plumbing installations. Additionally, specialist installations of medical gases will take place to serve the newly refurbished research facility when works are complete in winter 2024. Works are being carried out in a live environment with the building’s café, laboratories, teaching spaces and offices still in use. David Cairns, managing director, Robertson Construction Central East, said: “The Queen’s Medical Research Institute refurbishment project holds immense significance not only for the university but also for the advancement of medical research and healthcare on a global scale. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that this bespoke facility meets the highest standards, providing researchers with the cutting-edge spaces they need to make ground-breaking discoveries." "We are excited to continue our strong relationship with the university as we undertake our 14th project for them. Having previously delivered the remodelling of the QMRI’s ‘clinical imaging facilities’, we understand how important these new facilities are for current and future users. By repurposing existing buildings, the university is demonstrating its commitment to sustainability." Professor Stuart Forbes, Dean of Research at the University of Edinburgh’s College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, said: “Over the past few years, QMRI has established itself as a world-class clinical research facility, developing solutions to major disease challenges. These refurbishments will bring great benefits to the work our researchers carry out and ensure that the University of Edinburgh remains a leading innovator in healthcare.” The QMRI project was procured through the CCS Construction Works and Associated Services (CWAS) Framework and Robertson Construction Central East was appointed following a two-stage process.

The biggest fleet of JCB Pothole Pros - a machine which fixes potholes in eight minutes flat - is set to hit the road in the UK after one of the country’s leading hirers placed a massive order for 50 machines. Commercial asset supplier Dawsongroup has already bought 11 JCB Pothole Pros – but all are now out on long-term hire with councils up and down the country, with more urgently needed. Demand for the machines is huge, especially given the Asphalt Industry Alliance’s (AIA) Annual Local Authority Road Maintenance survey estimating that there are a record £14 billion worth of outstanding road repairs in England and Wales – or a nine-year backlog. Dawsongroup | emc Managing Director Glen Carruthers said: “We only bought our first JCB Pothole Pro under a year ago and the response has been staggering, with the whole of the current fleet now out on hire. We have placed this additional order simply to keep up with demand.” JCB Municipalities General Manager Ben Rawding said: “It’s great to see the success that Dawsongroup is enjoying with the Pothole Pro. More and more local authorities, and the contractors working on their behalf, are recognising that the Pothole Pro is the best way to fix Britain’s roads quickly and permanently, first time. It is now easier than ever for UK authorities to get a JCB Pothole Pro on to their network, whether it’s in a city or in a rural county and the public will now really start to see their presence on the roads and streets around the UK.” Tests show the JCB Pothole Pro can complete a pothole repair in less than eight minutes, four times quicker than standard methods and equivalent to 700 potholes per month. With a 40km/h travel speed, the machine can also rapidly relocate between sites without additional transport costs. The JCB Pothole Pro is a unique 3-in-1 machine, cutting out the damaged surface, cropping the edges and cleaning the hole, ensuring a permanent fix. Dawsongroup | emc is JCB’s official rental partner for the Pothole Pro and the additional machines will be supplied through dealer TC Harrison JCB. Dawsongroup | emc, previously known as Dawsongroup | sweepers, is part of a global group of companies committed to providing an extensive product range, and first-class customer service across the supply chain.

With summer swiftly approaching, many are keen to transform their outdoor spaces into vibrant, welcoming retreats for relaxation or socialisation. To inspire you to revitalise your outdoor space and embrace the fresh summer air, we contacted Zara O’Hare, interior design expert at Land of Rugs , who shared invaluable tips and insights to kick-start your outdoor transformation journey. 1 - Outdoor Rug Consider integrating an outdoor rug into your design. Rugs are not only meant for the interior of homes, but outdoor rugs provide an instant splash of colour and texture, effectively defining the space and making it more inviting. "Rugs are an excellent way to establish an outdoor "room" in your yard, patio, or balcony. In addition, with weather-resistant features, these rugs are as hardy as they are beautiful," says Zara. 2 - Invest in Lighting Don't underestimate the magic of well-placed lights in the garden or patio. Solar lights are an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution to guide the way after sunset. Hang string lights above the dining or seating area for a touch of enchantment, or position landscape spotlights to showcase your favourite plants or architectural features. A fire pit can also offer warmth and ambient lighting for those cool summer nights. 3 - Hammock Now, who can resist the charm of a hammock? Swinging lazily in a hammock under a shady tree or a pergola is the definition of summer relaxation. Zara suggests finding hammocks in different styles and colours to suit your tastes and become a focal point of your outdoor décour. 4 - Walking Space Consider adding a walking space. A small, winding path can make a big difference, leading guests through the garden from one focal point to the next, enhancing the sense of discovery and engagement with nature. "Use stepping stones, gravel, or wooden planks to create a path that complements your landscape design," says Zara. 5 - Accesorise Your Space Like indoors, outdoor spaces benefit from accessories and can add personality to your outdoor space. "Cushions help set the tone for your outdoor space. Play with vibrant, tropical hues for a fun, summery vibe, or stick to earthy tones for a serene, natural ambiance." Lanterns can create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Bird feeders encourage visits from various birds, making your garden a hub of nature's activity,” she recommends. 6 - Don't Forget About Shade A stylish umbrella, pergola, or canopy can provide shade on hot summer days. Not only functional, but these features can also significantly enhance the aesthetics of your outdoor space. Creating an outdoor space you love doesn't have to be daunting. With some planning and creativity, you can transform your garden or patio into a charming and relaxing sanctuary that you will enjoy this summer.

Lamberts was founded in 1963 by the Grandfather of the current Managing Director, Trina Beare, back in 1963. Paul Andrews spoke to Trina to find out more of their journey as a family firm. Henry Beare founded the business and started what has been a stalwart of the Norwich business community ever since. During the war he was responsible for setting up radar stations on the east coast and worked in Norwich for a business that sold bricks and mortar products before taking on the responsibility for selling ancillary products within the same company prior to setting out on his own in 1963. His son, Trina’s father, Tim, who studied science at St Andrews University and worked elsewhere until joining the family firm in 1973 when his father invited him to join the company. The first transition was not an easy one, as is often the case with family firms, where the founder who had the vision finds it hard to let go and step back. For Trina, the lessons learned in that first transition were the catalyst for a different approach when she got involved and her father, and the strength of their relationship as father and daughter, made it easier. Trina pursued an education of her own studying business at University before getting married and having a family of her own before considering employment and she was fortunate to be looking for work when the business had a role in the purchasing department at Lamberts. As Trina explains, “It was a real learning curve for me as I was young and had never worked before so I was shy and didn’t even want to answer the phone but the role fitted around me being a Mum and juggling responsibilities and I was able to gain a great insight into the business too. Over time, as the kids moved from nursery to school and their school days got longer, I was able to work longer hours and get more involved too, doing some marketing, IT and even selling out on the road too.” Trina grew in confidence and gained great experience into all aspects of the business and then one day her Dad called her into the office to tell her something. As Trina continues, “Dad and I have a great relationship but he had not been well and had clearly been considering his future and that of the business and there and then he made me a Director of the business. Up until this point I was not sure what I was going to do so considered the offer and decided that it was the right opportunity for me and that I was prepared to become the third generation of the family to run the business.” The business had grown but when Trina became a director the existing management team were of an age where they were considering their futures and as the business with an ageing management team was not attractive to external buyers, the next stage in the family business journey was decided and Trina stepped into the lead role. Changes followed which were not welcome by everyone involved but Trina pursued the need for innovation and growth and continued to make a positive impact on the business, bringing in her own management team as others decided it was no longer for them. One of the longest serving employees, Neill Ives, who had been a loyal servant to Trina’s father, became an integral part of the management team and id due course was promoted to Joint Managing Director alongside Trina. Hindsight is a wonderful thing and Neill and Trina both appreciate the journey that they have been on. As Trina adds, “When I took on the business there were 47 staff and they had been with the business a number of years. I had to look at the business, where we were going, and create my team and the culture that I wanted within the business too. Neill and I have worked closely over the years to go back to basics, embed the family values and our philosophy into the business and bring in people to work with us that share our goals. There have been challenges along the way, like there are in other family firms, but we have done what we set out to do and created a business that embodies all that we stand for.” Trina is a great example of a leader that knows what she wants and that recognises the need to build a core team around her to deliver the vision, something that is evident the moment you enter the business. Engaged and empowered staff who are continuing the legacy of a business that was created sixty years ago, focused on the needs of their customers and being true to their underlying family values. Trina and Neill know only too well the importance that strong family values can play in the success of a business and continue to embrace these values as they drive forward the next chapter in the journey of the family business. Many family firms struggle when they get to the third generation for a number of reasons, not least due to poor communication, lack of shared purpose and a growing shareholder base but for Trina, there are a number of core reasons as to why Lamberts have been successful: 1. Being an independent business means that you can react quickly to challenges by making and acting on decisions at speed. 2. Working as part of a small, close-knit organisation offers an environment that nurtures clear communication from management. Staff feel valued and engaged meaning loyalty is high. Over 50% of our team at Lamberts has been with us for 20 years or more and has over 400 years of combined service. 3. Customer loyalty is high when a business has been in the same family for multiple generations. The customers know who you are, often personally, so keep coming back, while recommending you to their own family and friends. Trust in the reliability and quality of products and services comes when customers know that they are, and always have been, the top priority of a business and that they are in safe hands. 4. Over the years you become a part of the local community, building relationships and trust with local people and customers. They want to see you succeed and invest in your success by using your products and services. 5. Multi-generational family businesses will have weathered many storms so can call on previous situations and challenges in the history of the business for advice and guidance. The foundations put down by the generations in the past help to sustain the business for the future. Today, Lamberts remains an Independent Industrial Distributor which strives to maintain the best traditions of personal service, coupled with the efficiencies gained from advanced technology. As a business they have continued to invest in delivering to customers, constantly in their people and computer technology that has resulted in a Single Sourcing supply package that is unique to their operation, and ensures in-depth knowledge of their extensive product range, which includes Pipes, Valves, Fittings, Hand Tools, Powers Tools, Fasteners, Lubricants, Workwear and Safety Wear. Trina is rightfully proud of the journey that she has been on and the impact that she has had in shaping Lamberts into the business that it is today. As she concludes, “The journey has not always been easy and there have been plenty of challenges but it fills me with pride that the business started by my grandfather sixty years ago this year is still delivering a first class service to our customers and is continuing as a family business. Our name is recognised locally and we take pride in the role that we continue to play by providing employment to local people. We take out responsibility seriously too. We are proud of where we have come from and are looking positively to the next chapter in the Lamberts journey too.” Find out more by visiting their website here

Football, known as soccer in some parts of the world, is more than just a sport in the United Kingdom; it's a cultural phenomenon deeply ingrained in the nation's identity. The British love of football transcends mere fandom; it's a way of life, a shared experience that unites people across class, age, and geography. Here we take a look and explore the roots of this passion, the significance of football in British society, and the enduring appeal that keeps the nation hooked on the beautiful game. A Historical Perspective The history of football in Britain dates back centuries, with roots that can be traced to various forms of ball games played in medieval times. The modern version of the sport, as we know it today, began to take shape in the 19th century, with the formation of football clubs and the establishment of rules. England, often referred to as the "home of football," played a pivotal role in shaping the game. The Rise Of Football Culture The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the emergence of a distinct football culture in Britain. Football clubs became community hubs, with local support growing rapidly. Football stadiums, such as Old Trafford, Anfield, and Stamford Bridge, became iconic landmarks in their respective cities. The chanting, singing, and camaraderie among fans created an atmosphere that is unmatched in the sporting world, something that continues today. The Role Of Football In British Society Football is not just a pastime; it's a mirror of British society. It reflects the working-class roots of many clubs, such as Manchester United, Arsenal, and Liverpool, which were founded by factory workers and dockers. The sport has also evolved, especially in recent years, to become more inclusive, with a growing emphasis on diversity and women's football, something that has been further increased following the success of the England team at the recent European Championships and the Women's World Cup. Football is a source of pride and identity for many regions. Rivalries between teams like Manchester City and Manchester United, or Celtic and Rangers in Scotland, are deeply ingrained in the local culture and can even transcend generations and galvanises communities across the country. Economic Impact The economic impact of football in Britain cannot be overstated. Premier League clubs, with their global fan bases and lucrative TV deals, contribute billions to the UK economy each year. Stadiums, merchandise, and hospitality industries all benefit from the football frenzy that sweeps the nation together with the commercial benefits for local traders, bars and restaurants on match days too. Global Influence British football has not only captivated the hearts of its own citizens but has also gained a global following. Premier League matches are broadcast to millions worldwide, making British clubs household names on every continent. The English Premier League, with its high-paced action and star-studded teams, has arguably set the standard for top-tier football leagues globally. Football in Britain is more than just a sport; it's a cultural touchstone that has shaped communities, identities, and economies for generations. Its deep-rooted history, cultural significance, and economic influence make it an integral part of British society. From a kick about in the local park to the recent World Cup final, football is a part of British daily life. The love affair between the British people and football continues to grow stronger with each passing season, cementing the sport's status as the nation's favourite pastime.

In 2012, Gardening expert Sarah Raven hosted a BBC series called ‘Bees, Butterflies, and Blooms’ that explored the decline of Britain’s most cherished pollinators and what we all can do to protect them. Inspired by her findings and the people she met along the way, Sarah has been on a journey to increase biodiversity in her garden at Perch Hill, and to encourage others to do the same in theirs. Why Now? According to WWF’s latest Living Planet Report, global wildlife populations have plummeted by 69% on average since 1970. Many factors are negatively impacting global biodiversity including climate change, deforestation, and increased urban developments, but there are actions that can be taken at home to improve and rewild local habitats. Here, Sarah shares the top 10 things gardeners can do to encourage natural life to thrive in any garden no matter the size. Sarah’s Top 10 Lessons In Biodiversity If you’re yet to venture onto the path of sustainability, these are my recommended steps that all gardeners should take. Make sure you are doing four or five of these steps right now and aim to add one or two every six months or so. If you really want to make an impact, go the whole hog straight away and adopt all ten. 1. Stop Using Chemicals Try to avoid using chemicals to mitigate pests and weeds. As we all know, insecticides are there to kill, and it’s unwise to use herbicides and fungicides as these heavy chemicals will wipe out microorganisms below ground. At Perch Hill, we use physical barriers against slugs and snails in a wet year and have found they work well. Strulch (a form of rough-cut straw), a moat of wool pellets, or a good 15cm zone of enclosing grit makes the world of difference when reducing damage from slugs and snails. Companion planting is also an effective way to manage pests. We underplant tomatoes with basil, roses with small-leaved salvias, summer savoury under broad beans, and our lupins grow through a sea of tagetes which deters the aphids, so they don’t then overwinter to feast the following spring. 2. Embrace Peat Free Growing Media Peat is a valuable carbon sink in the wild, and peat-based compost destroys that sink and adds additional carbon to the atmosphere, so it’s important to steer clear. More and more successful alternatives are in production, including composted bark that has less of a carbon footprint than coir. 3. Think About Water Now is a great time to get ahead and implement water storage solutions to keep your garden hydrated and happy throughout next summer. Providing sources of shallow water for bees and birds is also invaluable. I love to sit and watch our water feature, an old, repurposed animal water trough with a 10cm flattened edge. Different bird varieties use it to wash and drink, and bees, wasps, and butterflies fill the edges in a hot day, drinking away. If you’ve got room for a pond, add one. There’s almost nothing better for biodiversity than having a shallow-edged pond, and you’ll have frogs and toads that will munch away happily on your slug population. There’s nothing they love more. 4. Forget Immaculate Gardening Now is the time to rethink your traditional manicured garden look and allow your borders, plants, and hedges to become looser and free flowing. This will enable more wildlife to live there, with you, and thrive. Link up with your neighbours and encourage them to create wildlife corridors, linking garden to garden. 5. Feed The Birds At Perch Hill, we grow plenty of seedy plants and use bird feeders, but only put out as much food at once as they can consume in a few days, and don’t forget to clean feeders before refilling. This simple step limits the spread of devastating parasitic diseases, that affect much-loved greenfinch, chaffinch, and garden tits. 6. Introduce Early Flowering Plants In the UK, we’ve wiped out almost all our flowery meadows which have traditionally provided forage for birds, butterflies, and bees. gardening to replace those lost plants with varieties that will bloom in February and March, will ensure birds and pollinators have access to food. Varieties such as iris reticulata, polyanthus are all good choices, followed by single dahlias and salvias, which flower later in the year. Why not create a chart to ensure you have a succession of flowering plants throughout the entire year. 7. Fruits And Seeds Providing garden birds with sustained meals couldn’t be easier. Adding roses that form hips is an excellent choice, along with planting a myrtle bush for dunnocks, blue tits, and gold finches to feast away. Instead of cutting back brambles and hedgerows, allow these to flower and fruit, and of course, hawthorn and crab apple are always firm favourites. 8. Consider A Diverse Range Of Plants Wildlife thrives with a wide range of plants and structures – a tree, with a climber growing up it, a decent-sized shrub or two, perennial bulbs, and annuals, including grasses and grains. It’s true that our native plants are valuable, but don’t worry too much about this. Insects and birds won’t avoid more exotic varieties if they have the right forage or protein-rich seed available. Like humans, pollinators also benefit from a varied diet. 9. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Forget about purchasing brand-new things, and reuse what you already have. When applying this principle to the garden, it’s a lot more manageable than you might think. At Perch Hill, we now put many of our old empty plastic pots and polystyrene plant trays into the bottom of our whopper pots rather than the bin. They fill about ¼ to 1/3 the bottom of the pot, which we then cover with a layer of fleece, and then in goes the compost. This saves on the volume of compost required, plus it’s better for the environment and fine for the plants. 10. Compost Make your own compost if you have the space, but if you’re short of room, what about a wormery or Japanese Bokashi kitchen composting system. Making your own compost is incredibly rewarding and excellent for soil health too. Discover more by visiting the Sarah Raven website here

Millions of Brits book holidays based on what they've watched on TV. A poll of 2,000 adults found more than one in 10 have planned a trip away this summer based on their favourite programme, film or sporting events on TV - with Great Railway Journeys, Doc Marten and Travel Man among the top inspirations. Watching Gordon, Gino and Fred’s Road Trip made 13 per cent want to visit Italy, while 11 per cent dream of taking a trip to New York after watching Sex in the City. And one in 10 said Emily in Paris made them want to visit the French capital. The main features enticing travellers to part with their money after watching the box were stunning scenery (55 per cent), amazing food (29 per cent) and the novelty of it not looking like somewhere they had previously visited (19 per cent). A spokesperson for Toshiba TV , which commissioned the research to mark the launch of its new QLED TV, the QF5D TV with built in Fire TV, said: "There’s no denying it, Brits love a holiday, and this new research shows we all get our inspiration from the telly." “TV gives us a chance to examine and explore different cultures and provides us with a taste of what it might be like, so it’s only natural we’re enticed." “Being able to stream all your favourite shows in one place is great, as it opens you up to so many other opportunities and cultures – all from the comfort of your home.” The study also revealed it’s not just programmes which entice people abroad, with films playing a crucial role too. Mamma Mia (19 per cent), The Beach (13 per cent) and James Bond (13 per cent) are among the top motion pictures which made people consider booking a certain destination. Sports events which people have seen on the box, including the recent Qatar World Cup, the Athens Olympics in 2004 and Italy’s Serie A football league (all seven per cent) also had a big pull as well. As if Britain’s love for a foreign getaway needed any further proof, 69 per cent admitted going on holiday was a highlight of their year. The research, carried out by OnePoll, found the average Brit jets off twice a year, with cost (45 per cent), scenery (44 per cent) and how far away it is (29 per cent) the driving factor behind their choice of location. Seaside resorts (54 per cent) rank as the top destination, closely followed by a city break (52 per cent) and a relax and recuperation holiday (49 per cent). A spokesperson for Toshiba added: “It’s no surprise almost seven in 10 Brits think holidays are the highlight of their year. It’s when you can use your time as you wish – whether that’s relaxing in a hot destination like people do in Love Island or exploring the world as I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here does. “Being able to ‘try before you by’ by watching great shows, movies or sporting events gives you an opportunity to weigh up different locations and allows you to get a feel for a potential holiday destination.” Top 20 TV programmes which inspire Brits to travel: Great Railway Journeys with Michael Portillo Doc Marten Travel Man Planet Earth Sex and the City Emily In Paris Gordon, Gino & Fred’s Road Trip Race Across The World Yellowstone The Americas with Simon Reeve Love Island An Idiot Abroad Joanna Lumley's Hidden Caribbean: Havana to Haiti White Lotus Jack Whitehall: Travels with my Father Riviera James May: Our Man In Japan I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here Selling Sunset Outlander