In the world of gastronomy, few ingredients boast the versatility and cultural significance quite like olives. Originating from the Mediterranean region, these small, oval fruits have woven themselves into the fabric of diverse cuisines, offering a spectrum of flavours that range from briny and robust to buttery and mild. Olives come in a myriad of varieties, each with its unique flavour profile. From the assertive Kalamata olives hailing from Greece to the subtly sweet Ligurian olives of Italy, this culinary kaleidoscope adds depth to dishes across continents. The green, plump Castelvetrano olives from Italy offer a mild, buttery taste that has gained a loyal following. Spanish Manzanilla olives, green and adorned with a pimento, provide a briny kick, ideal for tapas and cocktails. Meanwhile, the wrinkled and intensely flavoured Moroccan oil-cured olives bring a bold, smoky essence to various dishes. Each olive variety tells a unique story, influenced by the soil, climate, and centuries-old cultivation techniques of its region, creating a vibrant tapestry of tastes for gastronomes to explore. Whether sliced into salads, crushed into tapenades, or simply enjoyed on their own, olives contribute a burst of complex taste that elevates any meal. Eating olives offers a range of health benefits, making them a nutritious addition to your diet. Olives are rich in monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, which has been linked to heart health by helping reduce bad cholesterol levels. Additionally, they are a good source of antioxidants, including vitamin E and polyphenols, which play a role in combating oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. The monounsaturated fats in olives may contribute to improved insulin sensitivity, potentially aiding in the management of blood sugar levels. Olives also contain essential minerals such as iron, copper, and calcium, supporting overall bone health and metabolic functions. Moreover, the Mediterranean diet, in which olives play a prominent role, has been associated with various health benefits, including a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases. While enjoying olives in moderation, it's essential to consider their sodium content, especially in brined varieties, for those watching their salt intake. Overall, incorporating olives into a balanced diet can contribute to a spectrum of health advantages. As a plant, the olive tree holds a special place in Mediterranean culture, symbolising peace, prosperity, and longevity. The tradition of cultivating and pressing olives for oil dates back thousands of years, and today, extra virgin olive oil is not just a cooking staple but a coveted elixir of health. The distinct terroir of olive groves imparts unique flavours to the oil, creating a vast spectrum of aromas and tastes. Beyond the Mediterranean, olives have traversed borders, blending seamlessly into global cuisines. Spanish tapas feature marinated Manzanilla olives, while Middle Eastern cuisine embraces the piquancy of green olives in meze platters. From California to Morocco, olive orchards dot the landscape, reflecting the adaptability of this humble fruit to diverse climates. When it comes to harvesting, the harvest of olives is a labour-intensive affair, often steeped in tradition. Families and communities come together during the olive-picking season, creating a sense of camaraderie as they gather the precious fruits. The ancient methods of curing and fermenting olives, passed down through generations, add a nostalgic touch to modern-day culinary practices. Not only a culinary delight, olives bring a host of health benefits to the table. Rich in monounsaturated fats, they contribute to heart health and are a good source of antioxidants. The Mediterranean diet, celebrated for its positive impact on well-being, owes much of its nutritional prowess to the inclusion of olives and olive oil. The story of olives is a tapestry woven with threads of tradition, flavour, and health. Whether they're adorning a pizza, gracing a charcuterie board, or swimming in a martini glass, olives continue to captivate taste buds and remind us of the ancient connection between food and culture. So, the next time you savour the distinct pop of an olive between your teeth, consider the rich history and global journey encapsulated in that small, flavourful orb.

Environment Secretary Steve Barclay has welcomed the scrapping of outdated rules inherited from the EU. The reforms made possible by leaving the EU will uncork innovation, encourage sustainable practices and reduce burdens for businesses. In addition to the UK’s longstanding status as a global wine trading hub, with a wine market worth over £10 billion last year, England and Wales have a fast-growing winemaking industry. Now boasting almost 900 vineyards, hectares under vine in the UK have more than quadrupled since 2000. Viticulture – the cultivation and harvesting of grapes – is now Britain’s fastest-growing agricultural sector, employing around 2,300 people full time with a predicted 50% growth in jobs by 2025. WineGB also reports 2023 is Great Britain’s largest-ever grape harvest, expected to produce an estimated 20-22m bottles and over 50% bigger on Britain’s previous record year in 2018. Benefiting from perfect growing conditions in the south of England, English Sparkling Wine has seen a surge in popularity in recent years with 8.3 million bottles produced last year. The home-grown fizz is expected to be a popular choice for Brits to see in the New Year. From 1 January 2024, makers of English Sparkling Wine will no longer have to use mushroom-shaped stoppers and foil covers on bottlenecks, giving producers the choice to opt for simpler packaging to reduce both waste and costs. Restrictions will also be scrapped on the making and selling of piquette – a lower-alcohol drink dating back to antiquity, made by extracting the remaining goodness from grapes left over after winemaking. This gives producers the option to create new income streams and tap into consumer demand for lower-alcohol drinks. In a move welcomed by wine traders, the government will also remove the requirement for imported wines to have an importer address on the label, reducing administrative burdens for businesses. Environment Secretary Steve Barclay said: “Our departure from the EU gives us the opportunity to review and scrap outdated and burdensome rules that have been holding back our wine sector. The reforms we’re introducing will help our wine producers and traders become more profitable, dynamic, and sustainable – while freeing them from pointless red tape." “Looking ahead to 2024, I’m committed to this government continuing to support our world-class winemakers, vineyards and traders to grow and innovate.” Nicola Bates, CEO of WineGB, the trade association for Great British vineyard and wine producers, said: “We welcome the additional choice that comes from this first phase of actions from the wine reform consultation. There will be producers who are keen to take advantage of all and every option to reduce materials on bottles, so we can expect to see fewer foils on sparkling allowing you to celebrate that bit faster, and with an environmental benefit." “We look forward to working with Government and the Defra team on future consultations, and am sure they will be as constructive as those now being implemented.” The government also announced that businesses will be able to sell prepacked still and sparkling wine in 500ml and 200ml sizes as well as a new 568ml ‘pint’ quantity. The reforms coming into force tomorrow from 1 January 2024 follow this year’s Wine: reforms to retained EU law consultation on the overly complex and bureaucratic existing 400-page rulebook for wine. The changes aim to facilitate international trade and foster domestic innovation and growth. The UK wine market was worth over £10 billion in 2022 in off-trade and on-trade sales, and the UK’s developing domestic production sector has attracted significant global investment. The UK is a global hub for wine. It is home to a diverse and dynamic wine sector and is the second largest importer of wine in the world by value. In 2022, off-trade sales of still, sparkling, and fortified wine via supermarkets, convenience stores, and specialist off-licences in the UK were worth around £7.6 billion, while on-trade sales through hospitality outlets were worth an estimated £3.5 billion. The domestic winemaking sector in England and Wales is by comparison very small, but rapidly growing and developing a global reputation for quality. Production reports for 2022 show a 36% increase in production. There has been a 74% growth in hectarage of vines between 2017 and 2022 (from 2257ha to 3928 ha).

easyJet is bringing its Fearless Flyer course back for winter 2024, to help nervous flyers take control and overcome their fears. With courses starting from 27th January and taking place in Manchester, London Luton, Bristol, Belfast and London Gatwick, customers have a choice of five airports across the UK to book their experience flight. Since 2012 nearly 12,000 phobics have taken to the skies after successfully completing the Fearless Flyer course, with the programme achieving over 95% success rate and in March 2023, easyJet celebrated its 150th course milestone. Fearless Flyer continues to be one of the best-priced aerophobia courses in the UK, starting at just £89 per person and the winter 2024 schedule provides options across the UK from the end of January until beginning of March. easyJet’s Fearless Flyer course is divided into three main parts: A virtual ground course, where top phobia expert Lawrence Leyton and a senior easyJet captain will explain the unfamiliar sounds and sensations customers feel onboard an aircraft and teach them a unique set of mind techniques to manage their nerves. This session lasts approximately two and a half hours. A pre-flight one-hour ‘Meet the Team’ online Zoom session, where participants will be walked through the airport experience and what to expect. There will also be a participant Q&A session where phobia expert Lawrence Leyton and an easyJet pilot will answer any last-minute questions. And lastly, a special one-hour experience flight from the course airport, where customers put their new skills to the test whilst listening to a live commentary of the flight from the Fearless Flyer team. In addition to the standard course, a VIP course is also on offer at London Gatwick on 2nd March which features extra exclusive benefits including a dedicated Captain who will guide you through the experience flight day, a pre-flight private video call with a pilot and the Fearless Flyer team, VIP check-in process, security and boarding for the experience flight, guaranteed upfront seats, and lifetime access to additional course materials. A limited number of spaces on the courses are now available at fearlessflyer.easyjet.com Captain Chris Foster, Fearless Flyer Lead Pilot at easyJet, said: “We’re delighted to be relaunching our renowned Fearless Flyer course for 2024 with winter courses now available to book across the UK. The course is suitable for anyone who is a nervous flyer, whether they experience slight anxiety or whether they have never flown before and with a success rate of more than 95%, we would encourage anyone wishing to overcome their fear to take part.” Mark Wein, easyJet’s Fearless Flyer Course Director, commented: “Around one in six people have a fear of flying, stopping many from travelling abroad on holiday, visiting friends and family or even flying for work, so why wait to join so many who have already overcome their fears through our renowned Fearless Flyer course? We’re excited to help many more people get flying fearlessly on our courses over the coming months – the results are truly life-changing.” Ruth Shortt, who took the course in Belfast in 2023, said: “Before taking the Fearless Flyer course. I hadn’t been on a plane in 11 years. I tried hypnotherapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and medication. None of these worked. The Fearless Flyer course was both amazing and life changing. Thank you so much to all the Fearless Flyer team. You are truly wonderful people and I will be forever grateful to you all. I would highly recommend the Fearless Flyer course to anyone battling with a fear of flying. It really works!”

Around two out of three contractors, freelancers and small business owners have not increased their day rate in the past year despite the impact of inflation, new research from Workwell & IPSE shows. Latest Government data shows pay for employees rose at a record 7.3% but the study by Workwell & IPSE found day rates for self-employed workers are not keeping pace. Workwell, a leading provider of services to flexible workers and recruiters in the UK and overseas, collaborated with IPSE, a community of over 35,000 self-employed people. The research found 58% of contractors, freelancers and small business owners have not increased their day rates in the past 12 months while 9% have even cut their rates. Only a quarter (24%) of those who have not raised day rates plan to do so in the next 12 months. Around six out of 10 (59%) say then will not increase their day rate while 17% didn’t want to say. The study found the average day rate charged by contractors, freelancers and business owners questioned was around £300 but around 45% said they do not have a day rate. The biggest reason for raising the day rate among those planning to or who have already done so is rising costs. Around 58% said they increased or plan to increase their rate because of cost pressures while 42% made the move because of the cost of living and rising inflation. Around a third (32%) say they have expanded their offering while 21% say the level of competition in their sector means they can increase their rate. However 11% who raised their rate admit they were undercharging previously. Among those who have increased their day rate the average increase was 10%. Chris Mollan, Head of Accountancy Services at Workwell said: “The cost of living crisis is hitting everyone and contractors, freelancers and small business owners are not immune so it is surprising to see so few increasing their day rates in response." “Pay rises are at a record level for employees which demonstrates that employers are willing to pay extra for workers they value which should apply to contractors, freelancers and small business owners providing important services." “Keeping running costs down is important for contractors, freelancers and small business owners if they are not going to increase their day rate and that should include ensuring they have the best possible business support.” Workwell’s award-winning accountancy service is designed to help contractors, freelancers and business owners to manage their business easily and tax-efficiently. Clients are supported by their own dedicated accountant and have online accounting to access and manage their accounts easily, from anywhere. It also provides umbrella company solutions for contractors. Workwell enables businesses in the UK and overseas to more easily and compliantly benefit from flexible workforces. Its services for recruiters and end hirers are designed to take away the risk, hassle and complexity of contingent labour supply.

Frozen food distributor Central Foods has moved into the top 50 businesses in the annual Northamptonshire Limited list which ranks the performance of 100 private businesses in the county. Compiled by accountants Grant Thornton and law firm Howes Percival, the list puts Central Foods at number 48 – up 20 places on last year’s ranking. The Collingtree-based firm has also been listed at number ten in the top 50 ‘ones to watch’ fastest growing businesses category. Central Foods MD Gordon Lauder said: “We are thrilled to have moved so far up the list of top 100 private businesses in Northamptonshire, and to also be considered in the top ten ‘ones to watch’. This reflects the hard work, skill and commitment of our team." “We founded Central Foods in Northamptonshire in 1996 and it’s been our home ever since." "We’re now the leading frozen food consolidator operating across the UK, supplying a wide range of frozen food to the UK food service sector, but we are proud to have our base in Northamptonshire and are delighted to have once again been recognised in the Northamptonshire Limited list." “The list features many worthy and exciting businesses who we are very pleased to be alongside, and it’s with great pride that we see ourselves gradually moving up the rankings.” Central Foods was first included in the top 100 list in 2017 and has gradually climbed higher each time a report is published. Northamptonshire Limited is part of an annual series of business analysis which seeks to highlight and celebrate some of Northamptonshire’s most successful, privately owned businesses, by turnover, and provide them with the recognition they deserve for their contribution to the region and wider UK economy. It was compiled using the most recent publicly available accounts, as of 16th October 2023, of Northamptonshire’s private businesses. The report shows that the top 100 privately owned businesses in the Northamptonshire Limited list had a combined turnover of £10bn. Central Foods is proud to be a catering partner across the whole food service sector, supplying to hotels, restaurants, bars, universities, schools, pubs, care homes, garden centres, leisure outlets and more. It currently sells to over 180 independent wholesalers, as well as larger national and regional wholesalers.

In a new survey of 400 small businesses by Purbeck Personal Guarantee Insurance to gauge the financial and emotional resilience of owner/managers, 1 in 4 respondents (24%) said their mental health had been directly affected by the stress of managing the finances of their business in the past year. While 1 in 4 is far from positive, this is a significant improvement from 49% in the same survey last year and underlines the tenacity and resilience of small business owners, as they continue to face challenging economic headwinds. Those who felt that their mental health had been impacted were more likely to be female than male, running their businesses in London and the South East, and aged 25-34. Tellingly, the survey also found that the owners/managers whose mental health had been affected were more likely to need new finance in the next year to support cashflow and 31% had taken on personal debt to help fund their business. Furthermore, 25% had backed out of a loan because it had a personal guarantee attached and 13% had been refused a business loan in the last two years. Todd Davison, MD of Purbeck Personal Guarantee Insurance says: “Although the cost-of-living crisis appears to be easing, the cost of doing business crisis has escalated in the past year, not least the cost of servicing existing loans. Those who want to refinance or access new funding are facing demands from lenders for personal guarantees for loans as small as £5,000 or £10,000. This can ramp up anxiety levels and as our survey has shown, some people rather walk away than make that commitment." “One way to address financial fears on a practical level is through Personal Guarantee Insurance which can offer small business owners greater confidence when securing a personal guarantee backed loan. This innovative insurance specifically for small businesses includes advice and mentoring support if a firm gets into financial distress as well as specialist mediation support when the debt needs to be settled. Ultimately it helps to keep business and personal life separate for small business owners and bring greater peace of mind.”

Soaring cost of production over the past two years has meant that some of the UK’s leading horticulture businesses have shelved any plans for growth, putting the future of the UK’s fruit and vegetable industry at risk. Commissioned by the NFU, the new report by Promar International found that costs of production have increased by as much as 39% in the past two years. Key inputs including energy costs rising by 218%, fertiliser by 47% and labour costs by 24% are shown to be behind the hike. The crops impacted most by these increases include much of the UK’s favourite fruit and vegetables such as strawberries, tomatoes, apples and lettuce. The report also warned these production costs, along with the impacts of the ongoing global volatility, are seen as the ‘new normal’ and businesses aren’t expecting the situation to change any time soon. NFU horticulture and potatoes board chair Martin Emmett said: “I am seriously concerned to hear from growers they are thinking about cutting production this coming season while they continue to face uncertainty with costs, uncertainty around a long-term plan for where their workforce will come from and increasingly challenging relationships within their supply chain." “We are now facing the third year of unprecedented and highly volatile costs of production, coupled with ongoing uncertainty about the availability of permanent and seasonal workforce and supply chains that return little value back to growers." “Growers are doing everything they can to make sure the supply of homegrown fruit and vegetables are on supermarket shelves, but as highlighted in the report, there is likely to be further consolidation in production and distribution. If pressures continue as they are, it will be unsustainable for some businesses." “The UK horticulture industry strives to be the best in the world and has the positivity and drive to match this ambition. As we set out in our growth strategy in March last year, there are ten key building blocks which underpin the success of the sector. These include sustainable energy supplies, access to skilled labour, productivity investment, supply chain fairness and a range of other critical support necessary to create growth in the sector." “While it is positive That the Government consultation into the horticulture supply chain has now opened, many businesses are continuing to face difficult customer relationships with prolonged contract negotiations, and contract planning cycles out of sync with production cycles, making it tough for growers to plan long-term for their businesses. This needs to change." “To ensure we have a thriving UK horticulture sector, we need to see the Government back our fruit and vegetable growers with action and ambition as it set out in its own Food Strategy and match our ambition for growth. It is crazy to think that, at a time when we want people to eat more healthily, we are only 50% self-sufficient in vegetables and 15% self-sufficient in fruit." “As a start, we need to give our British growers certainty by having a consistent plan for seasonal labour, including a five-year rolling Seasonal Workers Scheme, as well as sustainable returns and longer-term contracts with key customers, the retailers.”

The Barclays report combines hundreds of millions of customer transactions with consumer research to provide an in-depth view of UK spending. Rising food prices propelled supermarket growth, while “shrinkflation” and “skimpflation” emerged as new challenges for grocery shoppers. Brits favoured pubs over restaurants for dining and drinking, with a notable boost from sports events and the King’s Coronation. Taylor Swift’s ‘Eras’ tour and Beyoncé’s ‘Renaissance’ tour tickets, as well as blockbuster hits such as ‘Barbie’ and ‘Oppenheimer’ fuelled entertainment sector. Unpredictable weather hampered clothing stores, while travel thrived as Brits booked post-pandemic holidays. Consumer card spending increased just 4.1 per cent year-on-year in 2023 – noticeably lower than the growth seen in 2022 (10.6 per cent) – as Brits cut back on new clothes, eating out and home improvements amid rising inflation and household bills. However, consumers continued to prioritise moments of joy and shared experiences, boosting travel, entertainment, and pubs & bars. New data from Barclays reveals that spending on essential items grew 3.9 per cent in 2023 compared to 6.3 per cent last year. This reduced increase was largely due to a -10.7 per cent drop in fuel spend, stemming from the decline in pump prices this year after they peaked following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in early 2022. Barclays’ monthly Consumer Spend Index, which combines hundreds of millions of customer transactions with consumer research to provide an in-depth view of UK spending, reveals the top 10 trends that shaped consumer behaviour this year. 1. Savvy supermarket shopping ​ Rising food price inflation fuelled a 6.5 per cent increase in supermarket shopping, while food and drink specialist stores returned to growth (4.4 per cent) following a -1.1 per cent decline last year. Discount supermarkets performed particularly well, accounting for 15.5 per cent of all grocery spending – an all-time high, up from 14.5 per cent in 2022 – as savvy shoppers looked for ways to reduce the cost of their weekly shop amid rising prices. This behaviour peaked in September, when seven in 10 (70 per cent) claimed to be looking for cutbacks – over half (53 per cent) of these consumes were paying closer attention to price rises on specific items, 49 per cent were buying budget or own brand goods over branded goods, and the same proportion (49 per cent) were opting for more budget or value ranges1. 2. “Skimpflation” and “shrinkflation”​ impact the nation “Shrinkflation” and “skimpflation” emerged as the main scourges of supermarket shoppers in 2023. ​At its peak in September, 76 per cent of consumers had noticed examples of shrinkflation, with chocolate (48 per cent), crisps (41 per cent), packs of biscuits (38 per cent) and snack bars (31 per cent) the most cited products impacted by this trend. In addition, more than one in five Brits (22 per cent) in July noticed that shrinkflation was also affecting alcoholic drinks, finding that some of the drinks they were buying – such as beers, spirits and tinned cocktails – were becoming weaker or containing less alcohol, yet still costing the same or more. Meanwhile, over half (52 per cent) of shoppers in August noticed that some of the food and drink products they were buying had been downgraded in terms of the quality or quantity of premium ingredients, yet still cost the same or more than they used to – otherwise known as “skimpflation”. These shoppers had mostly noticed the declining quality of clothing, chosen by 44 per cent, closely followed by toilet paper (43 per cent), and toiletries/cosmetics (37 per cent). 3. Heating hampers eating To offset rising household bills, Brits spent less on eating out in 2023, with restaurants seeing a -6.7 per cent decline compared to last year. This comes as almost half (47 per cent) of consumers in October said they were planning to cut down on discretionary spending so they could afford their energy bills throughout the autumn and winter, with eating out at restaurants (56 per cent) one of the most cited areas for cutbacks. 4. Events boost bars & pubs On the other hand, pubs, bars & clubs had a strong 12 months, up 5.9 per cent year-on-year. This growth was largely driven by major public and sporting events, including the King’s Coronation and Rugby World Cup, as well as rising beer and alcohol prices. The strong performance of pubs compared to restaurants also suggests that while out socialising Brits were opting for more affordable pub food instead of formal restaurant meals. 5. Entertainment economy thrives​ Despite inflationary pressures, Brits have been keen to spend on memorable experiences. The entertainment sector (up 7.5 per cent) was boosted by the release of ticket sales for major events including the Eurovision Song Contest, Taylor Swift’s ‘Eras’ tour, and Beyoncé’s ‘Renaissance’ tour, with spending on shows and concerts up 8.6 per cent year-on-year overall. Meanwhile, blockbuster hits including ‘Barbie’, ‘Oppenheimer’ and ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ fuelled a 6.3 per cent increase at cinemas. ​ 6. “Streamflation” spurs subscriptions At-home experiences – or “insperiences” – proved popular, with digital content and subscriptions as well as takeaways and fast food rising 7.3 per cent and 8.1 per cent respectively year-on-year. This growth was driven by more consumers tuning in to watch the series finales of popular shows such as ‘Succession’, ‘Ted Lasso’ and ‘The Crown’, as well as many streaming services increasing their prices in 2023. 7. Unpredictable weather casts a cloud ​on the high-street Rising costs combined with inconsistent weather meant clothing stores had a challenging year, declining -0.5 per cent. This was largely due to the unseasonal weather in months including May, July and October leading Brits to hold off on making seasonal clothing purchases, as well as new clothes and accessories being one of the key non-essentials Brits said they were deprioritising. 8. Furniture takes a back seat If 2022 was the year for Brits investing in their homes, 2023 has been the year they sat back and enjoyed their grand designs. As a result, home improvements & DIY saw a -4.7 per cent decline year-on-year, while furniture stores saw a similar drop (-5.2 per cent), indicating that Brits have been making fewer big-ticket purchases and instead prioritising their spend in more experience-led categories. 9. Travel continues to cruise After a standout performance in 2022, the travel sector continued to thrive in 2023, seeing robust growth at both travel agents (10.4 per cent) and airlines (30.8 per cent). The sector’s success was also a lasting impact of pandemic, with a fifth (19 per cent) of consumers saying in November that they will be planning more holidays in 2024 because they’re still catching up on trips missed during lockdowns – a trend otherwise known as ‘revenge spending. 10. “Lipstick effect” lifts health and beauty Pharmacy, health & beauty retailers also enjoyed an uplift this year (5.6 per cent) – possibly thanks to the “lipstick effect”, where consumers prioritise small indulgences, such as cosmetics and self-care products, over big-ticket items during periods of economic uncertainty. The category’s boost is also likely due to pre-holiday purchases as well as increased demand for make-up and skincare compared to last year, when the pandemic’s lingering effects meant fewer Brits commuted into the office, reducing the need for appearance-related investments. Esme Harwood, Director at Barclays, said: “Brits prioritised memorable experiences and shared moments with loved ones this year, boosting pubs, travel and entertainment. Many were keen to make up for lost opportunities during the pandemic by booking holidays, treating themselves to concert tickets, and enjoying nights out with friends." “However, certain sectors saw noticeable cutbacks. Restaurants and clothing stores were hampered by the unpredictable weather, as well as the impact of rising household bills on consumers’ personal finances. Nonetheless, Brits' confidence in their ability to spend within their means has remained resilient, as they become more resourceful and adept in finding ways to balance their budgets.” Jack Meaning, Chief UK Economist at Barclays: “Although 2024 will be a tough year for the economy as a whole, the New Year is a time to look for the positives. We expect to see the Bank of England start easing interest rates from the middle of the year, and in fact, we’re already seeing mortgage rates come down in anticipation." "This is as the speed of price rises slows, which should continue to provide at least some boost to the spending power of people who have been squeezed through the cost-of-living crisis. 2024 will be a year of transition, from headwinds to tailwinds, but come next December we should be able to toast the New Year with more festive spirit.”

The Government has announced that financial support will be available to communities like Charnwood which have been impacted by Storm Henk. The Council is awaiting more detail on how people can access the support, but we will communicate this as soon as possible. The best way to stay informed about this support is to sign up to the Council’s email alerts here . (in particular our Charnwood Now latest news email alert). The Government announcement said the financial support will be available to eligible areas in England that have experienced exceptional localised flooding. Help will be available for: 1. Flooded households in eligible affected areas, who can apply for up to £500 cash to help with immediate costs. 2. Households and businesses significantly affected, who will be eligible for 100% council tax and business rates relief for at least 3 months. 3. Small-to-medium sized businesses in eligible affected areas, who can apply for up to £2,500 from the Business Recovery Grant to help them return quickly to business as usual. 4. Eligible flood-hit property owners, who can apply for up to £5,000 to help make their homes and businesses more resilient to future flooding via the Property Flood Resilience Repair Grant Scheme. 5. Farmers who have suffered uninsurable damage to their land will be able to apply for grants of up to £25,000 through the Farming Recovery Fund towards repair and reinstatement costs for farmers adversely affected by exceptional flooding.

Cricket, a sport that has captured the hearts of millions around the world, has a history that spans centuries. Its evolution has been marked by significant phases that have not only transformed the game itself but also its impact on society, culture, and the global sporting landscape. Origins and Early Days : Cricket's origins can be traced back to 16th-century England, where it began as a simple rural pastime. The early form of the game involved hitting a ball with a basic wooden bat. It was a leisure activity enjoyed by communities, often with informal rules and variations depending on the region. Formalisation and Laws : The 18th century marked a pivotal moment in cricket's history with the formalisation of rules and regulations. The "Laws of Cricket" were established in 1744, providing a structured framework for the game. This laid the foundation for the organized, competitive sport that we recognise today. Growth and Spread : As the British Empire expanded, cricket naturally followed. It gained popularity in countries such as Australia, India, and the West Indies, contributing to its global reach. The sport became more than just a game; it became a symbol of British influence and culture. Test Cricket : In 1877, the first-ever Test match was played between Australia and England. Test cricket became the pinnacle of the sport, known for its rigorous five-day format. These matches are steeped in tradition and continue to hold a special place in the hearts of cricket enthusiasts. Limited-Overs Cricket : The 1960s and 70s brought the advent of limited-overs cricket, particularly One Day Internationals (ODIs). This format made the sport more accessible to a wider audience, featuring colored clothing, floodlights, and innovations like fielding restrictions. It brought a refreshing dynamism to the game. The T20 Revolution : The 21st century witnessed a game-changing revolution with the emergence of Twenty20 (T20) cricket. Known for its fast-paced nature, explosive batting, and the rise of franchise-based leagues like the Indian Premier League (IPL), T20 cricket brought a new dimension to the game. It not only appealed to existing fans but also attracted a younger, more diverse audience. Women's Cricket : While cricket had historically been male-dominated, the women's game gained prominence over the years. The Women's Cricket World Cup was established in 1973, marking a significant milestone. The women's game has since evolved, with more international exposure and a growing fan base. Technological Advances : The use of technology has significantly transformed cricket. Tools like the Decision Review System (DRS) and Hawk-Eye have revolutionised the way decisions are made, making the game fairer and more accurate. They have also enhanced the viewer experience, adding a new layer of excitement. Global Tournaments : Cricket's global tournaments, including the Cricket World Cup and T20 World Cup, have become major events, drawing worldwide attention. These competitions showcase the sport's diversity and talent while fostering a sense of unity among nations. Inclusivity and Diversity : Efforts have been made to promote inclusivity and diversity in cricket. Initiatives to increase women's participation, address racism, and promote equal opportunities have contributed to a more inclusive and representative sport. Commercialisation : Cricket has become a multi-billion-dollar industry, with lucrative broadcasting deals, sponsorships, and endorsements. The sport's commercial success has had a profound impact on the game's development and global reach. Future Challenges : As cricket continues to evolve, it faces challenges. Maintaining the integrity of the game, managing player workloads, and addressing issues like match-fixing and doping are critical concerns that cricket's governing bodies must address to ensure the sport's enduring popularity. In conclusion, the evolution of cricket is a testament to its adaptability and enduring appeal. From its humble origins as a rural pastime to becoming a global phenomenon, cricket's journey is a reflection of its ability to capture the imagination of people from diverse cultures and backgrounds. As the sport continues to evolve, it is likely to see further innovations and adaptations, ensuring that it remains a cherished part of the world's sporting heritage.

North Glasgow community benefits from Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust donation The Barmulloch Community Development Centre (BCDC) were supported in putting on fantastic festive activities thanks to a four-figure donation from one of Scotland’s leading family businesses.   The Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust received the application and were touched by the efforts of the group to make such a positive impact in the community.   The £2,000 awarded went towards events including a community afternoon tea, three children’s Christmas parties with the all-important visit from Santa, Mrs Claus and the elves and a gift to all of the children. Barmulloch Community Development Company Development Manager, Brian Land said: “We at BCDC want to thank you all at the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust so much for the continued support it has made a very positive impact in the community during some difficult times.” BCDC is a community development trust where people come together who want to make where they live better for everyone. BCDC came together to support communities in Ward 17, to offer important services and provide much needed premises. Their aim is make everyone aware they have something to offer, to inspire and empower them to maximise their abilities- all for self-development and community benefit. Allied Vehicles founder Gerry Facenna added, “It’s great to be able to support so many fantastic organisations through the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust. The communities local to our head offices have so much to offer and we were delighted to be able to support BCDC with their festive efforts.”

British Cycling have announced the star-studded line up that will head to Apeldoorn in the Netherlands to represent the Great Britain Cycling Team at the 2023 UEC Track Elite European Championships, from Wednesday 10 – Sunday 14 January. The 23-strong squad heads to Apeldoorn in fantastic form to kick off the final stretch of qualification events for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, and boasts eight current champions and 13 medallists from the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships. After a breakthrough 2023 which saw her crowned sprint world champion, Emma Finucane will take to the boards in rainbow stripes alongside teammates Sophie Capewell, Katy Marchant and fellow Welshwoman Lowri Thomas, who will make her elite competition debut. Representing the men will be last year’s team sprint silver medallists Jack Carlin, Ali Fielding, Joe Truman and Hamish Turnbull. The women's endurance squad will return to the track after clinching the team pursuit world title for the first time in nine years back in August. Team pursuit world champions Elinor Barker, Meg Barker, Josie Knight and Anna Morris will look to add to their accolades, as will Madison world champion Neah Evans. Completed by 2022 European scratch race silver medallist Jess Roberts and young rider Sophie Lewis, the squad will be looking to assert their dominance in both the team and individual events. Following a crash which put them out of contention at the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships, the men’s team pursuit line up will be out in full force and aiming to gather those all-important Olympic qualification points. Elimination and scratch world champions, Ethan Vernon and Will Tidball, will be joined by world championship silver medallists Dan Bigham, Mark Stewart and Ollie Wood. Will Perrett will compete after taking a bronze medal in last year’s omnium, while Charlie Tanfield and Ethan Hayter return to the squad from injury. Great Britain Cycling Team Head Coach, Jon Norfolk, said: “The track squad enters 2024 with strong momentum from the previous season which saw nine world and 12 European medals won, and I’m excited to see what a good block of winter training produces out in Apeldoorn." “The women’s sprint squad are going from strength to strength, with a world record and numerous medals under their belts, both individually and as a squad. The men’s team pursuit squad are hungry to make up some qualification points after a disappointing crash at the 2023 world championships, and also secure their spot at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games." “There is real strength and depth in our current track squad, and the European championships will provide good competition experience as well as an opportunity for riders to showcase their abilities as we head towards Olympic selection.” Team pursuit world champion, Meg Barker, added: “Since winning the team pursuit world title in August we’ve had a really solid training block through the winter to get ready for the new track season, which starts with these championships. I can’t quite believe we’re going into the Olympic year wearing the rainbow bands and I can't wait to see what we are capable of as a team in 2024.” Great Britain Cycling Team squad for the UEC Track Elite European Championships: Women’s Endurance Meg Barker Elinor Barker Neah Evans Josie Knight Sophie Lewis Anna Morris Jess Roberts Men’s Endurance Dan Bigham Ethan Hayter Will Perrett Mark Stewart Charlie Tanfield Will Tidball Ollie Wood Ethan Vernon Women’s Sprint Sophie Capewell Emma Finucane Katy Marchant Lowri Thomas Men’s Sprint Jack Carlin Ali Fielding Joe Truman Hamish Turnbull