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Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce a new partnership with worldwide logistics company KLG Europe – which will see them feature on their 2024 playing shorts. KLG Europe was formed initially in 1918 as Kuijken Transport before rebranding to its current guise in 2005, with offices opening across the globe as the company expanded. The business’ Bradford base is situated in Low Moor, just minutes from the Bulls’ Odsal Stadium home and is another local business to #BackTheBulls in 2024. Bradford Bulls’ Head of Commercial Ian Stafford said: “We are delighted the team at KLG Europe have decided to come on board as a kit sponsor for the 2024 season. Having got to know Jamie and the rest of the team over the last 12 months, they are keen followers of the Bradford Bulls and having initially had pitchside boards placed around our hallowed turf, they have decided to increase their sponsorship with us which is fantastic news for everyone associated with the club." “Having enjoyed a positive 2023 season on and off the field, it is great to see the list of businesses ‘Backing the Bulls’ growing, and I thank Jamie and everyone at KLG for their support.” Jamie Wood, General Manager at KLG Europe Bradford, said: “KLG Europe Bradford is proud to offer continued sponsorship to Bradford Bulls RLFC for another season." “I myself have been watching the Bulls for the best part of 40 years and still go home and away when I can along with other life long fans such as my Dad, a Northern / Bulls fan for over 60 years and good friend also a lifelong fan of over 40 years." “I think we can all agree it’s been a rollercoaster ride, over the last 10 years in particular, but I am happy to learn we will retain the vast majority of last year’s squad which hopefully with a few more quality additions will take us back to Super League in the not too distance future – back where we belong!”

The Keyfix Non-Combustible Cavity Tray System has played a vital role in the building of Ashley Road East, a major new residential development in Tottenham Hale, by improving installation efficiency and quality on site, and exceeding building regulations. Ashley Road East is one of two mixed use residential buildings located in the heart of vibrant Tottenham Hale, based conveniently near the Tottenham Hale underground station. These contracts worth £85 million are part of a wider regeneration scheme, which plans to deliver 1,030 new homes which will sit alongside 15 new retail spaces, co-working and office spaces, a cinema, a new primary care health centre, and two football pitches worth of well-lit elegantly paved public space. Keyfix has worked alongside brickwork contractor Galostar and main contractor Galliford Try to support architect, KDS Associates, and premier global development firm, Argent Related, in bringing their designs to fruition. To meet the requirements and tight build programme, Keyfix has supplied 1,747 metres of Non-combustible Cavity Trays (NCCT), 304 Corner Units, and 4,800 Weeps. Keyfix had a relatively short lead time with a turnaround of approximately three weeks, from the first point of contact with the customer, to delivery on site. The project presented two main challenges for Keyfix. Firstly, the majority of corners had a unique obtuse angle, as opposed to the standard 90-degree angle; making it difficult to meet the project’s specifications. To remedy this, Keyfix worked alongside the site team, using their drawings to manufacture pre-formed corner units to match specification requirements. The preparation carried out by Keyfix helped to accelerate install time once the corner units were delivered to site. Secondly, Keyfix collaborated with the client to position the tray in the ideal position that was both below the window sill, and above the relieving angle in a compact area; therefore, reducing the overall price for the contractor. Joel Riley, Contracts Manager at Galostar Brickwork commented: “Keyfix was a great asset to this project. The NCCT was quick and easy to install and didn’t require any extra materials such as sealants, which saved us time and energy. Keyfix’s help onsite to position the tray at the correct angle also helped to reduce our overall costs on this development.” The Keyfix NCCT was specified due to the self-supporting nature of the tray, meaning that it does not need to be attached to the inner structure, ensuring a swift and easy installation. Unlike other cavity tray systems, this design requires no additional fixings, sealants or onsite fabrication by the brickwork contractor. Therefore, installation of the trays did not delay the speed of bricklaying when compared to traditional DPC. Installed in the outer leaf with no connection with the inner skin, this innovative cavity tray system does not create a thermal bridge, helping the homeowner to save through improved thermal performance. This also produces the benefit of safe-proofing the building from differential movement. The system comes complete with pre-formed corners and a step-by-step combined component schedule and location plan, which greatly improves efficiency on site by reducing installation time. Moreover, with a lifespan of 125+ years and holding an A1 Fire Rating, the Keyfix NCCT is built to exceed current regulations. It is the only non-combustible cavity tray system that does not rely on tapes and mastics to make watertight joints, therefore eradicating one of the primary reasons for product failure. Commenting on the project Kieran Coyle, Keyfix General Manager, said: “Our rapid build, non-combustible cavity tray is recognised by brickwork contractors nationwide as being the fastest and easiest system on the market to install, which is one of the principal reasons for the product being selected. The fact the tray is entirely self-supporting and requires no connection to the inner-leaf has been a substantial time saver on this project.” Kieran continued, “The Keyfix NCCT also has an A1 Fire Rating and will never contribute to fire loading in the building so housebuilders and homeowners can be assured that by installing our system they are future proofing their investment and themselves.” The Tottenham Hale residential development is a work in progress, with ongoing deliveries from Keyfix. The Keyfix Non-combustible Cavity Tray is playing a fundamental part in the safe and enduring design of a residential development that will create an exciting legacy for North London. For more information about the Keyfix range of non-combustible solutions visit their website here

Bengalis have been rewarded and acknowledged for their substantial contribution to healthcare, finance, politics, education and the arts. Now in its fifth year, The Bengals Pride Awards is a unique platform where East and West Bengal come together to recognise the best in their community. The ceremony at the historic Churchill Hall, House of Commons, is dedicated to celebrating the achievements of the Bengali ethnic community from India and Bangladesh. The community has, for decades, contributed to growth not just across South Asia but right across the globe. Many Bengalis like Dr. Amartya Sen, Dr. Abhijit Binayak Sen, Dr. Inus Khan, Saurav Ganguly, Shakib Al Hasan have made a substantial global footprint, but have never been recognised by the community. The third largest ethnic group and one of the most prominent culture groups in the world, nearly half a million Bengali ethnic communities from India and Bangladesh live in the United Kingdom and have not only achieved success in the restaurant business but have also achieved success in other important sectors such as the medical sector and the import-export retail market. Rajesh Agarwal, Deputy Lord Mayor of London said: “It is truly an honour to attend the Bengali’s Pride Awards 2023. Many congratulations to all the winners, who are the bright stars and an inspiration, not just for the global Bengali community but for everyone." "The Bengali community in London has contributed to every single aspect of London and British life – food, art, culture, economy, sports, media and politics.” Bangladesh High Commissioner H E Ms Saida Muna Tasneem said: “I congratulate the Advatech Bengali Pride Award Winners for 2023 for community work, philanthropy, women entrepreneurs, sports and many more catagories. What is special about this award is that it recognises brilliance and talent of Bengali people from both India and Bangladesh.” The Advatech Foundation founded these awards intending to recognise Benglis for their endeavours globally whilst helping provide education for children, young persons and adults resident anywhere in the world, particularly in India and Bangladesh. Awards founder and Adavtech Foundation Trustee, Samit Biswas commented: ""I am delighted to announce our winners, it's absolutely brilliant to see the community come together and be celebrated. These awards show us just how important it is to recognise Bengalis' efforts and contributions, transforming lives and contributions to economies." The winners included: 1. Lifetime Achievement Award: Ratan Tata 2. Pride of Bengal: Chandra Shekhar Ghosh 3. Entrepreneur of the Year: Jaydeep Barman 4. Achievement in Community Work: Jane Richter 5. Business Person of the Year: Supratim Bose 6. Achievement in Art and Media: Anita Bose 7. Sports Person of the Year: Raj Chaudhuri 8. Health and Social Care: Dr Madhushree Ghosh 9. Sir David Amess Memorial Award: Chalkwell Lifeguards 10. Women Entrepreneur of the Year: Rushna Miah

Harlequins are pleased to announce a new partnership with Conrad Energy who has today been unveiled as the Club’s Official Power Partner and Sleeve Sponsor. In an exciting new partnership, the Conrad Energy logo will feature on the sleeves of the Harlequins Women’s and Men’s shirts for the 2023/24 season, commencing this weekend with matches against Gloucester-Hartpury and Exeter Chiefs. The partnership will also feature significant Conrad Energy branding throughout The Stoop, alongside a range of key initiatives, supporting the Club’s commitment to driving sustainable energy growth. Formed in 2016, Conrad Energy are a leading energy producer with more than 70 sites throughout the UK. As an Independent Power Producer (IPP), Conrad Energy are at the forefront of the energy transition, helping the UK move towards a sustainable, net zero carbon electricity system by balancing the grid when renewables can’t meet demand. Conrad Energy also work closely with businesses to help drive down their energy costs and carbon footprints through a variety of innovative products and services. With a pipeline of more than 1GW of their own projects and a growing base of business customers, Conrad Energy are powering a changing world. Commenting on the new partnership, Conrad Energy’s CEO Steven Hardman said: “We’re delighted to partner with a world-famous club like Harlequins." "The values they hold dear such as teamwork, commitment, performance and creativity are similar to our own, so it feels like a really great match. We look forward to a strong and successful relationship." Harlequins CEO Laurie Dalrymple added: “We’re thrilled to announce our new partnership with Conrad Energy. Conrad Energy are leading the power transformation in the UK and their determination to improve efficiency aligns completely with the Club’s commitment to drive smarter and sustainable power solutions." “We’re excited to form this new relationship with Conrad Energy and we’re looking forward to having their logo proudly displayed on our Harlequins Women’s and Men’s shirt for the season ahead.” Both parties would like to thank Very Media for their support in developing this relationship.

In 2003 Axel & Sophie Steenberg had the vision to create Steenbergs, a sustainable spice company committed to the environment, people and the planet. 20 years on, having pioneered the UK’s first Fairtrade spices and added organic teas and baking extracts to their portfolio, they are now a carbon neutral, plastic free, B-Corp business with a continued dedication to ‘saving the planet one meal at a time’. “Although we had thought long and hard about opening a herb and spice business,” says Sophie, “our key core ethos of organic and Fairtrade didn't even get a mention in discussions. It was just agreed and assumed by us both that that's what we were going to do.” Further significant achievements include the establishment of 2 factories (one for tea and one for spices) in North Yorkshire with green sedum roofs, solar power and rainwater harvesting; the purchase of Old Hamlet Wine & Spice company in 2017 and accreditations and certifications for organic, Kosher and vegan products. The past 20 years have also seen a huge amount of change for the Steenbergs. “Politically and economically the world has thrown a lot at us,” comments Axel, “a financial crisis in 2009, Brexit, covid and lockdowns, a King, and more conflicts around the world than we'd like to think about and mention. On a personal level our two very small children have grown up and (mostly) left home.” The one constant has been Axel & Sophie’s dedication to improving the environment and they have recently bought a 50-acre wood in Wales which will sequester over 18,000 tonnes of carbon. With 35,000 new trees planted, to grow, develop and make space for nature alongside the 20,000 established trees, they are now marking their 20th anniversary with the planting of 20 more native trees, firmly rooting themselves in the natural landscape and sowing the seeds for the next generation.

Growing up, for many of us in the UK, eating fish and chips is synonymous with a Friday night supper. In fact, for centuries, the tradition of eating fish on Fridays has been observed by various cultures and religious groups around the world. But why do we eat fish on Fridays, and what is the history behind this culinary custom? One of the most well-known reasons for eating fish on Fridays is its association with Christianity, particularly within the Catholic Church. This tradition can be traced back to the early days of Christianity. Fridays have been regarded as a day of penance and abstinence, in remembrance of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Red meat was considered too indulgent for this day, and fish, being a simpler and more modest protein source, became the preferred alternative. In addition to its practicality, fish holds a special place in Christian symbolism. The fish, known as the "Ichthys" or "Jesus Fish," became an early Christian symbol. This symbol was a discreet way for early Christians to identify themselves during times of persecution. As such, eating fish on Fridays can be seen as a way to connect with the faith's rich symbolism. Eating fish on Fridays also has ecological benefits. Many proponents argue that choosing fish over meat promotes sustainable and responsible seafood consumption. This aligns with the idea of stewardship, which is a core principle in several religions, including Christianity. It encourages the protection of natural resources and responsible treatment of the environment. But the tradition of eating fish on Fridays extends way beyond the Christian context. In various cultures, fish is considered a staple for Friday meals. For example, in Japan, consuming fish on "Fish Day" (a play on words with Friday) is common, and sushi is a popular choice. In many other countries, fish dishes are part of the Friday culinary culture, even in the absence of religious motives. Fish also offers a wide range of culinary possibilities, from simple grilled preparations to elaborate and exotic recipes. The tradition of eating fish on Fridays has led to the development of countless delectable dishes that showcase the versatility of this seafood throughout the world. From fish and chips in the UK to bouillabaisse in France, the world's cuisines have embraced this tradition, resulting in an array of flavourful options. Eating fish on Fridays is a tradition deeply rooted in history, culture, and religion. Whether observed for religious reasons, ecological concerns, or simply as a culinary tradition, it continues to be a global phenomenon that brings people together over the shared appreciation of this remarkable and versatile food. So, the next time you enjoy a delicious fish dish on a Friday, you can savour not only the flavours but also the rich history and tradition that have made Fish Fridays a beloved custom.

Wakefield Council have unveiled a new mural to brighten up part of Wakefield city centre. Created by local artist Holly Greenwood, the mural covers temporary hoardings located outside Wakefield One on Cliff Lane. The artist illustrates some of the Wakefield district’s urban features, along with elements of the natural environment, creating a colourful and lively piece of art. Cllr Michelle Collins, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Sport, said: “This bold and eye-catching mural really brightens up the area and puts a smile on your face when you walk past it. It’s really nice to have a local artist creating artwork in their own city and giving us all something to be proud of. We’re really focusing on providing support for our local talent to grow and this is a great way to showcase one of our local artists and support their development." “We’ve also recently included a gallery of murals from local artists on the hoardings for the Wakefield Exchange.” Holly Greenwood is a Wakefield resident and has recently moved from a small home studio to work with other artists in the nearby Westgate Studios. She is a self-employed artist and illustrator and has been running her own small business – Holly Greenwood Designs - since 2019 producing hand painted, digitally printed art prints, greeting cards, stationery and textiles. Holly started her business after graduating from Leeds Arts University in 2019. Holly said: “As a local artist, I was delighted to have gained this opportunity to work with Wakefield Council on this project. The design is based on the theme 'Urban Garden' and features iconic urban landmarks of Wakefield such as the Hepworth Art Gallery, Wakefield Cathedral and the Theatre Royal, nestled within beautiful local countryside and wildlife. The concept has drawn influences from the artistic perspective of Andy Holden, which delves into the realm of conservation and nature." “It has been such a fantastic project to be part of, I hope the mural has brightened up the area and can be enjoyed by the people of Wakefield for years to come.” The mural is next to a new public art installation by Andy Holden. His five bronze structures represent bird songs transformed into the shapes of their sound waves and is one of six major city centre public art works forming a new art trail from Wakefield Westgate Station to The Hepworth Wakefield. The mural commission was awarded to Wakefield based artist Holly Greenwood whose ‘urban garden’ theme complements Andy Holden’s sculpture.

Adding to the Bank of England worries, recent data shows annual pay growth for some in-demand roles as high as 36.2% Unresolved skills shortages, growth-ambitious business leaders and a cost-of-living crisis have all exacerbated the high quit rates of 2023. The result – the highest annual growth in regular pay the UK has experienced in the past two decades. According to new research by specialist recruitment firm Robert Half , almost a third (32%) of employers are finding themselves in the middle of a wage spiral, having to inflate salaries to maintain a competitive edge in the war for talent. With 69% of businesses confident in their 2024 growth prospects, the need to recruit skilled employees to ensure business continuity and growth still outweighs concerns about economic uncertainty. The firm’s 2024 Salary Guide – which analyses and reports on market salaries, hiring trends, and skills requirements across the UK – also revealed that a further 26% of companies are offering additional one-off bonuses to keep hold of their staff. With inflation still an issue for the UK, almost half (41%) of employers indicated that they will offer a flat-rate salary increase for all employees in the next 12 months, while 27% are planning pay increases in line with inflation. As seen in today’s ONS labour market data, annual average pay rises for private sector employees was 8%, yet a closer look at some of the most in-demand skilled roles reveals a more concerning wage spiral snapshot for the inflation embattled economy. Although across the board salary increases are in line with the ONS results, the 2024 Salary Guide forecast shows the average annual pay growth in accounting operations is up by 9.6% year-on-year, where, depending on experience, roles such as Financial Accountant, Purchase Ledger Manager and Billings Clerk would command 26.4%, 26% and 36.2% higher salaries respectively. A similar picture is seen in financial services, where a Financial Controller can expect 16.2% more; within tech, software development professionals are able to secure pay increases up to 24%; and within the legal professions, the average annual wage increase is 12.4%. Matt Weston, Senior Managing Director UK & Ireland, at Robert Half, commented: “Many employers may be shocked next year at the salaries that some of their most in demand roles will command. Without careful planning this will weigh heavily on company profitability at a time when businesses are struggling with costs." “It is no surprise to see financial incentives are perceived to be a top solution. However, continuous pay rises aren’t sustainable and firms need to consider how else they can boost hiring prospects and reduce attrition. With the UK continuing to face significant skills shortages and 75% of employers concerned about the attraction and retention of staff in 2024 according to our research, firms will find themselves with little option but to listen to the employee voice." “Yet, pay is not the ‘be-all and end-all.’ A robust corporate culture and a tailored retention programme can be a cost friendly strategy. Our research shows, for example, that almost half (47%) of the workforce would reject a new job if the company didn’t offer flexible working, yet news reports continue to highlight brands that are enforcing office returns. And in many instances employees leaving a business do so due to deep-rooted talent attrition causes such as heavy workloads and a lack of development opportunities. Business leaders must address all aspects of the employee experience and must do so fast, since an increase in pay is the inevitable by-product of ‘jumping ship.’

John Good Group has achieved operational carbon neutrality for all its businesses – John Good & Sons, Good Travel Management, Dan Shipping & Chartering, TEPS, and Bay Shipping. In a significant step towards its long-term sustainability plans, the 190-year-old family business was supported by leading audit, tax and consulting firm RSM to measure and report the carbon footprint for 2022 aligned to the Greenhouse Gas Protocol and their Quantis tool for Scope 3 emissions. Achieving operational carbon neutrality is one of many steps in John Good Group’s sustainability journey. The Group has rolled out carbon reduction programmes across each of its businesses, including renewable energy generation, the introduction of Hybrid and EV vehicles, a review of suppliers, and the development of several people focussed initiatives aimed at carbon-contributing factors such as commuting miles. The reduction initiatives will continue at pace over the coming years to ensure the business is reducing its emissions as much as possible. However, the Group’s largest carbon-producing business, TEPS, is constrained by the pace of the industry’s technological developments. Progress on new fuelling solutions is slow and the availability of suitable vehicle alternatives is still several years away. Frustratingly for the Group, additional solar energy generation is also being limited by the national electricity grid – which is currently prohibiting the business from exporting surplus solar energy, which it could generate by making extra investment into solar panels on its warehouses. These are issues the Group hopes will diminish over the coming years. To offset the Group’s residual emissions for 2022, John Good Group partnered with Climate Impact Partners to purchase carbon credits. Working together, the two teams selected initiatives that make significant contributions to the communities they serve while also addressing the global issue of climate change by avoiding and reducing carbon emissions. The projects selected include Rural Clean Cooking in India, Rimba Raya Biodiversity Reserve REDD++ in Indonesia, Mudbrick Rocket Stoves in Malawi, and Degraded Grasslands Afforestation in Uruguay. James White at Climate Impact Partners explained, “Our collaboration with John Good Group is about delivering action on climate change and creating a more sustainable world. We worked together to identify projects that truly align with their ethos and support the UN’s SDGs in the most meaningful way.” These projects align with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals that John Good Group has committed to: No Poverty (SDG 1), Good Health and Wellbeing (SDG 3), Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8) and Climate Action (SDG 13). Adam Walsh, Chief Executive of the John Good Group, commented on the milestone, “It’s an important first step for the Group to achieve operational carbon neutrality, and I’m proud of the team that has worked on this. It’s something we’re all passionate about, but we’re fully aware we have a lot more to do." "For our non-operational scope 3 emissions, which are more than 100 times greater than our operation emissions, we’re engaging with both customers and suppliers to look at solutions that are on the horizon and how they might meet our customer needs. A good example of progress in this area relates to the emissions relating to the flights we book in our travel business on behalf of our customers." "We’ve introduced carbon insight at the point of booking for our customers, and all our team has undertaken sustainability training led by travel sustainability experts, Responsible Futures.” Walsh continues, “Reduction is our focus now, and whilst it might be our reality for several years yet, we know reliance on carbon offsets is not the answer to the climate problems we’re facing or to be relied upon by the Group for the answer to our responsibilities." "Our businesses operate in industries that have material impacts on the environment, so reducing carbon output is essential. Our view is a pragmatic one, however, and we believe by engaging and collaborating within these industries, showing leadership and working with others to make a difference, we have the opportunity to challenge and influence the wider industries we operate in to help shape a greener future.”

England men’s head coach Steve Borthwick has named his team to play South Africa in the semi-finals of the Rugby World Cup 2023 at Stade de France (kick-off 9pm CEST, 8pm BST live on ITV Sport) on Saturday. Owen Farrell will captain a starting XV with three changes to the side that defeated Fiji 30-24 in Sunday’s quarter-final in Marseille. In the front row, Joe Marler returns to the loosehead and packs down with Jamie George at hooker and Dan Cole at tighthead. At lock, Maro Itoje partners George Martin, who starts his second game of the Rugby World Cup. An unchanged back row sees vice-captain Courtney Lawes on the blindside flank, Tom Curry at openside and Ben Earl wear the No.8 shirt. In the half-back berths, Alex Mitchell continues his partnership with last Sunday’s Mastercard player-of-the-match Farrell. In midfield, Manu Tuilagi is named at inside centre, with Joe Marchant at 13. In the back three, Elliot Daly continues on the left wing, with Jonny May on the right and Freddie Steward returns to the starting XV at full-back. Hooker Theo Dan, props Ellis Genge (vice-captain) and Kyle Sinckler, together with Ollie Chessum, Billy Vunipola, Danny Care, George Ford (vice-captain) and Ollie Lawrence, make up a strong and experienced replacements bench. “After an excellent few days preparation in Paris, we look forward to the challenge of playing the World Champions and number one ranked team in the world,” said Borthwick. “Through this tournament the team has progressed, with the players repeatedly finding a way to win, sometimes in challenging circumstances. We will once again need to be at our very best this weekend as we face an excellent team in South Africa." “There is no doubt the players will truly relish the challenge of knockout rugby under the lights in Paris. These players will, as they have done in every game of this tournament, give absolutely everything in the semi-final to get the result we want." “I also know that our supporters will once again be there in their thousands, playing their part in backing the team with a full voice. To all those who have travelled and to all those lending their support and encouragement from home, I say ‘thank you’.” The team: 15. Freddie Steward (Leicester Tigers, 29 caps) 14. Jonny May (Gloucester Rugby, 77 caps) 13. Joe Marchant (Stade Francais, 24 caps) 12. Manu Tuilagi (Sale Sharks, 57 caps) 11. Elliot Daly (Saracens, 63 caps) 10. Owen Farrell – captain (Saracens, 110 caps) 9. Alex Mitchell (Northampton Saints, 10 caps) 1. Joe Marler (Harlequins, 87 caps) 2. Jamie George (Saracens, 83 caps) 3. Dan Cole (Leicester Tigers, 105 caps) 4. Maro Itoje (Saracens, 74 caps) 5. George Martin (Leicester Tigers, 8 caps) 6. Courtney Lawes – vice-captain (Northampton Saints, 104 caps) 7. Tom Curry (Sale Sharks, 48 caps) 8. Ben Earl (Saracens, 23 caps) Replacements: 16. Theo Dan (Saracens, 6 caps) 17. Ellis Genge – vice-captain (Bristol Bears, 56 caps) 18. Kyle Sinckler (Bristol Bears, 67 caps) 19. Ollie Chessum (Leicester Tigers, 16 caps) 20. Billy Vunipola (Saracens, 74 caps) 21. Danny Care (Harlequins, 94 caps) 22. George Ford – vice-captain (Sale Sharks, 89 caps) 23. Ollie Lawrence (Bath Rugby, 19 caps) Photo credit - Image supplied by The RFU for use with this story.

Covering current affairs, history, politics, science, sport, travel, biography, autobiography and the arts, the Baillie Gifford has been the pre-eminent prize for Non-Fiction in the UK since 1999. From the inaugural winner Stalingrad to 2022’s Super-Infinite , via modern classics from, Stasiland , to The Five and the ‘Winner of Winners’— announced earlier this year 1599 , past winners have gone on to become some of the most cherished and definitive Non-Fiction of the 21st century. So who made the 2023 shortlist? The books in the running for the 2023 Baillie Gifford Prize are: Time to Think by Hannah Barnes Time to Think goes behind the headlines to reveal the truth about the NHS's flagship gender service for children. The result is a disturbing and gripping parable for our times. Red Memory by Tania Branigan An indelible exploration of the Cultural Revolution and how it shapes China today, Red Memory uncovers forty years of silence through the rarely heard stories of individuals who lived through Mao's decade of madness. Revolutionary Spring by Christopher Clark There can be few more exciting or frightening moments in European history than the spring of 1848. Almost as if by magic, in city after city, from Palermo to Paris to Venice, huge crowds gathered, sometimes peaceful and sometimes violent, and the political order that had held sway since the defeat of Napoleon simply collapsed. Revolutionary Spring captures the essence of the time. Time's Echo by Jeremy Eichler Time's Echo is a remarkable and stirring account of how music acts as a witness to history and a medium of cultural memory in the post-Holocaust world. Mr B . by Jennifer Homans From the author of Apollo's Angels, Mr B . is the first major biography of the figure who modernised dance: an intimate portrait of the man behind the mythology, set against the vibrant backdrop of the century that shaped him, Balanchine's radical approach to choreography reinvented the art of dance and his richly evocative ballets made him a lasting legend. Fire Weather by John Vaillant Fire Weather is a gripping account of this century's most intense urban fire, and a panoramic exploration of the rapidly changing relationship between humanity and fire's fierce energy. The winning book will be chosen by this year’s judges: Literary Editor of the Financial Times, Frederick Studemann (chair); award-winning author, Andrea Wulf; theatre critic for The Guardian, Arifa Akbar; writer and historian, Ruth Scurr; journalist and critic, Tanjil Rashid; and Chief Executive of the Royal Society of Arts, Andrew Haldane. Watch and hear what the judges had to say about the finalists here: The winner will be announced at a Gala Evening taking place on November 16, 2023.

A Warwickshire boxing legend is the inspiration behind two new special-edition rums released by an award-winning distillery. Warwickshire Gin Company has released the spirits in honour of Randolph Turpin from Leamington Spa. The Pugilist - Sting Like A Bee - Honey Rum and Pugilist Ghost Edition White Rum, are in honour of the sporting great who went down in British boxing history for his sensational World Title win against the legendary Sugar Ray Robinson and earning himself the nickname ‘The Leamington Licker.’ His statue can be found in Warwick’s Market Square. The rums are new recipes based on the company’s existing Spice Blended Rum, which took Bronze at last year’s International Spirits Awards. Dave Blick, who established Warwickshire Gin Company in 2018, said: “With our local legend being Randolph Turpin, boxing is still a very strong sport in Leamington and Warwick." "We are using Guyanan rum spirit as a base in honour of Turpin’s Guyanan family heritage." "Born in Leamington of Guyana heritage, Turpin became a hero overnight! "To commemorate this fabulous son of Leamington we have celebrated his Guyanan heritage and added our special Warwickshire spice blend to create a warming, rich rum." “For the new Sting Like A Bee edition, we have rectified with orange peel, and finished off with local honey sourced from Kazim’s Bees and Honey in Warwick, to deliver a beautifully smooth sweet mouth feel. It is best enjoyed neat over ice or pairs well with Sicilian lemonade." ”The Pugilist Ghost Edition White Rum is more one for the rum purists and is best enjoyed neat over ice or maybe with a drop of lime.” Both rums are 37% ABV and available to buy in 5cl, 20cl and 70cl bottles or as part of gift packs. They are the latest to join the independent craft distillery’s portfolio of artisan copper pot-distilled premium spirits, including five artisan handcrafted gins and a vodka. The inspiration behind the Warwickshire Gin Company collection comes from a desire to capture a moment in history, developing flavours to fully represent the county’s own unique story and bringing the range of hand-crafted flavours to life. These include Leamington on Parade, inspired by the true story of three elephants brought over from Sri Lanka to Leamington by circus elephant trainer Sam Lockhart in the 1880s; The Kingmaker – named after Richard Neville 16th Earl of Warwick and Peeping Tom – inspired by the legend of Coventry’s Lady Godiva. The distillery also offers visitor experiences - Gin Tasting, Cocktails at The Distillery and their new Afternoon Gin & Tea plus a range of build-your-own branded gift bundles, including spirits, goblet, mixers and gin or rum-infused chocolates. In a further nod to the drinks’ heritage, the distillery is also sponsoring the expansion of a local community boxing gym in Whitnash. The money will fund new kit as well as amateur boxers’ expenses for competitions and events abroad. There are a wide range of facilities available at Clearys Boxing Gym too. They now include three boxing rings (one championship size), a media suite - to record podcasts and do TV and radio interviews - a small conference room for career talks, homework space, lounge area, and showers and changing rooms. Find out more by visiting The Warwickshire Gin Company website here