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A pioneer in the food industry has joined one of the UK’s biggest ingredient firms to help facilitate the company’s next phase of growth. Susie Turan, a seasoned professional in the food industry, has joined Macphie Ltd as Head of Product and Innovation to play a pivotal role in adding fresh-thinking to the firm’s impressive product portfolio. Known for creating freezer favourites like Magnum Double, Solero Berry and Vegan Carte D’Or, Susie has held senior roles at the likes of Unilever, Genius Foods and Finsbury Foods. With over three decades of accomplishments in the food sector, the London-born R&D specialist is now set to head up a Product Development team at the Aberdeen-shire based firm. Susie said: “Macphie is an absolute leader in its field for a reason so I’m thrilled to now be playing a part in that. The values of the brand and the opportunities within its product range instantly sang to me." “I’ve had a really varied career path and the original plan wasn’t to be in the food industry. After gaining a PhD in Chemistry, I joined Unilever’s laundry department developing sensors that made washing machines more eco friendly. From there, I moved across to its food division and I’ve not looked back since." “Since then, I’ve worked to improve and create recipes and processes across the board – from ice creams and sauces to kids and vegan ranges, as well as baked goods, frostings and icings – making Macphie’s product portfolio a really fitting match." “I’ve always admired Macphie as a company, the products, the values and its strong sustainability goals. I’m really looking to working with the team, growing together as a team and hope to add something different to this brilliant food firm.” The mum of two holds 10 patent fillings for food industry creations across a range of food types and led teams of developers and food technicians. Having worked across the USA and Europe, Susie is well placed to support Macphie’s push for global expansion. The new hire will look to help Macphie on its continued journey of global expansion and support the diversification of its product portfolio and innovation credentials. Andy Stapley, CEO of Macphie, said: “Susie arrives with a wealth of experience, genuine passion, and exceptional leadership qualities. From the get-go, we’ve already seen Susie bring an abundance of value and fresh thinking to the firm." "Her invaluable expertise promises to significantly enhance the team and we’re really looking forward to implementing her ideas and making the most of her impressive experience." “It’s another really important appointment for us at Macphie and marks another significant addition to the senior leadership team.” Macphie has grown from its roots as a craft baker into a global ingredients manufacturer, supplying food brands, household name businesses and the wholesale sector with the products it develops at its Glenbervie factory. The Aberdeenshire firm is an internationally renowned ingredients manufacturer established in 1928, which now employs more than 250 people across its three sites. It manufactures a wide range of products including cake mixes and savoury sauces, as well as offering plant-based and gluten-free options. Its vision is to be the go-to partner for food brands around the world, turning ideas and creativity into practical solutions. Its passion for making life easier for chefs and bakers is reflected in its “simply clever” strapline.

Jigsaw puzzles have been a beloved pastime for generations, captivating people of all ages with their intriguing blend of art, logic, and the joy of completing a complex picture one piece at a time. While they may appear as simple cardboard cut-outs, jigsaw puzzles offer a myriad of benefits that go beyond mere entertainment. Jigsaw puzzles trace their roots to the 18th century when they were crafted as educational tools for teaching geography. These early puzzles were called "dissected maps" and were often made of wood. Over time, puzzles began to feature a wide range of images, transforming them into both educational tools and sources of entertainment. By the 19th century, they were known simply as "jigsaw puzzles," named after the tool used to cut pieces. In recent years, jigsaw puzzles have experienced a remarkable resurgence in popularity. This renaissance can be attributed to several factors: Digital Detox : In an increasingly digital world, many people seek opportunities to disconnect from screens and engage in more tactile activities. Jigsaw puzzles provide a perfect escape from the digital noise. Mindfulness : Completing a puzzle requires concentration, attention to detail, and patience, making it an excellent mindfulness activity. It encourages individuals to be fully present in the moment, promoting relaxation and stress relief. Sense of Accomplishment : The satisfaction of fitting the last piece into a puzzle is a feeling like no other. This sense of accomplishment and completion provides a dopamine rush that keeps enthusiasts coming back for more. Social Bonding : Jigsaw puzzles are not limited to solo play. They are a wonderful way for families and friends to bond over a shared challenge, offering a unique form of togetherness. Family Traditions : Jigsaw puzzles are something that different generations can do together and people have often created real family bonds and memories late into the evening when the desire to complete the puzzle takes over and time passes by! We spoke to Kate Gibson, Managing Director of Gibsons , a family firm that has come a long way since their founder Harry Percy Gibson formed the business back in 1919. Kate is the fourth generation to run the business which now sells a fabulous collection of family board games, hundreds of jigsaw puzzles ranging in piece counts and size and a great assortment of playing cards. As Kate explains, there is still very much a demand for jigsaw puzzles. "There has been much documented on the therapeutic benefits of jigsaw puzzles. The tactile nature of putting the pieces together helps people to relax and unwind and there is something very special about building an image and immersing yourself in the story that is being created in front of you." "We also recognise how they can play a part in combatting loneliness by keeping the mind occupied. They allow us to connect with others either by doing a jigsaw together or being part of the puzzling community." "Gibsons also have a range of puzzles called Piecing Together. With fewer, larger pieces they are perfectly placed for those with handling or sight problems, as well as those living with dementia. The designs promote reminiscence and spark conversation allowing the hobby of ‘puzzling’ to transcend generations and continue much later in life." In fact, there are plenty of benefits associated with jigsaw puzzles that include: Cognitive Benefits : Working on a jigsaw puzzle enhances cognitive functions such as problem-solving, spatial reasoning, and memory. It exercises both the left and right sides of the brain, contributing to mental agility. Stress Reduction : The repetitive nature of fitting pieces together has a calming effect, reducing stress and anxiety. It allows the mind to focus on the task at hand, offering a temporary escape from worries. Patience and Perseverance : Puzzles teach the value of patience and the rewards of perseverance. Not every piece fits right away, but with time and effort, the bigger picture takes shape. Art Appreciation : Puzzles often feature breath-taking artwork, fostering an appreciation for aesthetics and details in the images they depict. Jigsaw puzzles have truly stood the test of time, even in the digital world in which we live today. As Kate continues, "In our fast-paced world, we are always looking for ways we can switch off from the many demands placed on us and jigsaw puzzles increasingly provide an antidote to our busy lives. They allow us to take time away from our ever-present screens which is needed today more than ever." "We usually start our puzzling journey as children with 2 & 3 piece puzzles." "Picking it up again later in life is a familiar activity that often evokes memories and warm feelings from childhood." "It’s the simple things we crave when life can feel over complicated." Whilst many might think that the jigsaw is a quintessentially British thing to do, that could not be further from the truth. "We have many international customers and the worldwide market is buoyant. The great thing about jigsaw puzzling is the focus on imagery. Time and time again the success of a puzzle is determined by the quality of the image and this is universal." "There are no language barriers, although we do see different image preferences and choices across the world," continues Kate. The future also presents plenty of opportunity for a product that many might see as a traditional pastime linked to the past but again this is not the case. As Kate concludes, "As with any sector, there will be continued innovation both in terms of materials and piece counts. 3D puzzles have been popular and there will be other innovations to come. AI may well inspire innovation in our sector which is at odds with such a traditional pastime, but in our fast-paced world, it is inevitable and may well bring advantages we have not yet conceived of." "As a family business we have come a long way since the business was founded back in 1919 and there is something for everyone in our range and it is fantastic to know that we help to create memories too. We continue to innovate and develop new products and look forward to seeing what the future has in store for the world of jigsaw puzzles too." Jigsaw puzzles may have evolved over the centuries, but their ability to captivate and soothe remains timeless. They offer a wholesome pastime that nourishes the mind and soul. As we navigate a fast-paced, digital world, the enduring appeal of jigsaw puzzles reminds us of the simple joys of finding the perfect piece to complete the puzzle of life. So, the next time you're looking for a way to unwind and centre yourself, consider reaching for a jigsaw puzzle – a beautiful, challenging, and rewarding form of entertainment. Why do they remain in demand and how have they stood the test of time?

Full-service marketing & communications agency, Big Bamboo, has brought on board a new Head of Social, as its latest senior hire. James Pilkington, who brings with him 10 years’ experience of working in specialist social media roles, joins to oversee the strategic direction of all social media platforms and associated content strategies for its clients. Starting his career in the field with IMP Media in 2014, James then went on to work at Creative Race and Savvy Marketing, before moving to an in-house social media role at Symington’s Ltd – the company which produces a number of well-known food products including Ragu, Naked and Mug Shot. More latterly James worked as the Head of Social at Leeds based ‘The Individual Agency’, before seeking a role at Big Bamboo. Nicola Stamford, the company’s Owner & Founding Director, comments: " I am delighted that we have attracted James to join the business, especially as he contacted us to see if any opportunities were available. His primary focus will be on ensuring we continue to look after, add value to and nurture our client base when it comes to their social media presence and how they are perceived online." James comments on his new role: “I’ve heard a lot about Big Bamboo and have watched the agency’s growth with interest over the last six months. Having met Nicola and the rest of the team I was excited by the opportunity, especially given the impressive client portfolio they have, which incorporates some fantastic brand names." “I’m looking forward to getting my teeth into the role as the agency’s first Head of Social and to helping Big Bamboo continue to grow to the next level of its potential.”

Yorkshire-based family automotive retailer JCT600 is donating a year’s supply of Chemo Ducks to both the Leeds and Sheffield Children’s Hospitals in partnership with The Give A Duck Foundation, a UK-wide children’s cancer charity. With dealerships in Leeds and Sheffield, JCT600 is supporting these local communities with a donation of 200 Chemo Ducks for children in Leeds and Sheffield Children’s Hospitals. Fitted with medical lines and ports to mirror those of the child, Chemo Ducks are used by play leaders during play therapy to prepare children for their treatment, whether it’s an appointment with their consultant, administering chemotherapy or taking blood samples. Chemo Ducks will also be on display at all 19 of JCT600’s dealerships in Leeds and Sheffield to raise awareness of the initiative and encourage customers to make a donation towards funding more ducks. To find out more, visit Charity & Community - JCT600 “We are proud to be playing our part in supporting this fantastic charity which is helping to improve the lives of children with cancer in Yorkshire,” comments Andy Bateman of JCT600. “It’s a really innovative scheme and we hope that many of our customers as well as businesses in the region and across the country will help the charity to meet its goal of providing a Chemo Duck to every child diagnosed with cancer in the UK.” Elaine Dunning of Give A Duck, adds: “It’s great news that a well-known and trusted brand like JCT600 is supporting The Give A Duck Foundation. The charity aims to help children feel they can take back some control at a time when they may feel they have very little, as well as removing some of the fear by seeing Chemo Duck experiencing the treatment the children will go through, and providing a relaxed way to have discussions about what will happen to them in hospital. Many thanks to the JCT600 team for their support, and also to Blue Light Babies and Fleet Factors for creating the bespoke JCT600 duck outfits.” The Give A Duck Foundation works with all 19 specialist childhood cancer centres in the UK and 34 shared care UK hospitals. By working with health care professionals about the many uses and roles Chemo Duck can play during treatment, Give A Duck can help make things a little easier at a really difficult time.

Autumn is a season that captivates the hearts of many around the world. As the leaves change colours, the air turns crisp, and the days grow shorter, there's something undeniably magical about this time of year. So what makes people love autumn and why does it hold such a special place in our hearts. Autumn is a season that indulges our senses like no other. The visual spectacle of trees transitioning from vibrant greens to a mesmerizing palette of red, orange, and gold is a sight to behold. Every walk in the park becomes a journey through a painting, as the leaves fall gently around us and what is not to love about walking through the leaves themselves, hearing their crunch under foot and seeing them fly through the air as you walk through them? As the temperatures drop, we welcome the opportunity to bundle up in warm sweaters, scarves, and boots. There's a unique sense of comfort that comes with sipping on hot apple cider, curling up with a good book by the fireplace, or simply enjoying the warmth of a soft blanket on a chilly evening. Autumn is also the season of harvest, and farmers' markets come alive with an abundance of fresh produce. From apples and pumpkins to squash and cranberries, the flavours of autumn find their way into our kitchens, inspiring delicious recipes and comforting meals. One of the most beloved aspects of autumn is undoubtedly the culinary delights it brings. Pumpkin spice lattes, cinnamon-flavoured treats, and hearty soups are just a few examples of the delectable offerings that become synonymous with the season. The moderate temperatures of autumn also create the perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. Hiking through colourful woodlands and forests, going apple picking, or taking scenic drives to witness the autumnal foliage are all popular activities that allow us to connect with nature. Autumn also hosts two of the most celebrated holidays around the world: Halloween and Thanksgiving. The excitement of dressing up in costumes and the joy of sharing a feast with loved ones make these holidays truly special and memorable, creating memories for years to come. As autumn comes to live and the season changes, it also serves as a poignant reminder of the impermanence of life. The falling leaves remind us that change is a natural part of the cycle, encouraging us to embrace change in our own lives and find beauty in transformation. The gentle rustling of leaves and the crisp crunch underfoot create a unique auditory experience. The songs of migrating birds and the distant echo of a crackling bonfire add to the symphony of autumn, making it a season of music in its own right. These sounds are part of the real essence of autumn, something that is further enhanced by the captivating scents of the season. Autumn carries a distinctive fragrance - the earthy scent of fallen leaves, the sweetness of apple orchards, and the comforting aroma of baked goods. These scents evoke nostalgia and a sense of home. With the year winding down, autumn often invites introspection. It's a time to look back on the year's journey, express gratitude for what we have, and set intentions for the future. Autumn, with its kaleidoscope of colous, cosy comforts, and abundant delights, is a season that captures our hearts and nourishes our souls. It reminds us to appreciate the beauty in change, the importance of family and tradition, and the simple pleasures of life. As we embrace the magic of autumn, we find ourselves falling in love with the world all over again.

Lidl is now officially the cheapest and most popular supermarket in the UK. The discounter topped YouGov’s list of most popular supermarkets and was also named cheapest supermarket in The Grocer’s ‘Super Grocer 33’ – beating the UK’s major supermarkets and fellow discounter, Aldi. The discounter’s unbeatable value has won shoppers’ hearts up and down the country. In YouGov’s survey exploring the percentage of shoppers who have a positive opinion of a supermarket chain, Lidl nabbed the number one spot. Scoring 79 per cent, it placed ahead of rivals Aldi and M&S. Meanwhile, The Grocer’s ‘Super Grocer 33’ index, which compares the price of 33 everyday grocery items across the UK’s seven major supermarkets, found Lidl to be significantly better value than others on a range of products, including fresh fruit and veg. From apples (£1.49 for a six-pack) to aubergines (85p), and cabbages (69p) to carrots (50p for 1kg), the discounter was the cheapest across 26 items in total. Lidl was exclusively cheapest for free range eggs (£1.09), with the price accolade coming just hours after it announced a bold new approach to boosting British egg production, by offering farmers financial incentives to move into egg farming. Even when compared to the traditional supermarkets with discount schemes, Lidl customers found themselves better off. Sainsbury’s shoppers using their Nectar card still paid £6.75 more than they would have if shopping at Lidl, while Tesco Clubcard holders paid £8.09 more. Premium supermarket Waitrose, which claims it is implementing price cuts, was a whopping £15.79 more expensive than Lidl. Rapeseed oil was almost double the price, while a whole chicken was almost £2.00 more. Peter De Roos, Chief Commercial Officer at Lidl GB, said: “It’s no surprise that when we’re continually shown to be the cheapest supermarket, we’re also topping popularity polls. Our customers, new and old, know that shopping with us doesn’t mean they have to compromise on quality." "What’s more, they can be assured that we remain committed to keeping our prices low, which we know is more important than ever.” For nearly 30 years, Lidl’s unparalleled quality-value combination has been winning customers over from across the country. While the discounter has won The Grocer’s Super 33 five times out of seven, it’s also been named the cheapest supermarket by Manchester Evening News for over seven months in a row.

The King has approved the nomination of The Right Reverend Deborah Sellin, Suffragan Bishop of Southampton, for election as Bishop of Peterborough, in succession to The Right Reverend Donald Allister, following his retirement. Deborah was educated at St Andrew’s University and trained for ministry on the Southern Theological Education and Training Scheme. She served her title at St Saviour’s, Guildford, and was ordained Priest in 2008. Deborah was appointed Vicar of St John the Baptist Wonersh with Blackheath in the Diocese of Guildford in 2010 and was additionally appointed Area Dean for the Deanery of Cranleigh in 2015. She became an honorary Canon of Guildford Cathedral in 2018. In 2019 Deborah took up her current role as Suffragan Bishop of Southampton, in the Diocese of Winchester and, since 2021, has additionally served as the Acting Diocesan Bishop of Winchester.

UK flag carrier British Airways and India's leading airline IndiGo, have signed a codeshare agreement to boost connections between the UK and India. Through this partnership – which sees British Airways add its code onto a range of destinations across IndiGo’s network - customers can enjoy improved connectivity between Southeast Asia and Europe for travel from 12 October 2023. In total, eight destinations are now available as codeshare options when travelling from London Heathrow via New Delhi or Mumbai. This includes three new destinations that haven’t been accessible to British Airways customers until now: London Heathrow to Amritsar via New Delhi London Heathrow to Kochi via Mumbai London Heathrow to Ahmedabad via Mumbai London Heathrow to Goa via Mumbai London Heathrow to Thiruvananthapuram via Mumbai (NEW) London Heathrow to Kolkata via Mumbai London Heathrow to Rajkot (Hirasar) via Mumbai (NEW) London Heathrow to Vadodara via Mumbai (NEW) The agreement means that British Airways’ customers travelling, for example from Rajkot (Hirasar) to London, or transiting through Heathrow (or vice versa) will be able to connect to their destination on a single ticket. IndiGo operates an extensive domestic and regional network with a fleet of A320 aircraft. All British Airways customers travelling onwards with IndiGo will be able to enjoy a complimentary meal and the UK carrier’s generous baggage allowance in economy via codeshare for flights to India – two checked bags up to 23 kilos per person. Neil Chernoff, British Airways’ Director of Network and Alliances said: “British Airways has been flying to India since 1924, making it one of our longest-served and most valued destinations. Our partnership with IndiGo means that customers will be able to book their entire journey on one ticket, allowing seamless travel all the way from London to their final destination, offering more choice and flexibility for customers.” Abhijit Dasgupta, Senior Vice President, Network Planning and Revenue Management at IndiGo, said, “We are excited to announce our codeshare agreement with British Airways. This partnership expands the choices available to British Airways customers for journeys to/from London Heathrow, using IndiGo’s extensive network in India. This step to provide seamless connectivity will not only support trade and commerce between the two countries but also offer convenient travel options to students and tourists." "With burgeoning demand for international travel, we will continue to enhance international connectivity and remain committed to our promise of providing on-time, affordable, courteous, and hassle-free travel experiences to our customers." The number of British Airways flights from India to London now exceeds pre-pandemic levels, with the airline operating 56 flights a week, to five Indian gateways: Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore and Hyderabad. Indian customers travelling between Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore can enjoy the airline’s newly designed Club Suite (business class) cabin, with direct-aisle access, a suite door for greater privacy and luxurious flat-bed seats in a 1-2-1 configuration. Flyers will also soon start to see the new British Airways uniform, as cabin crew, pilots and check-in agents switch over to the airline’s first new uniform in 20 years. Codeshare flights are available to book from today for travel from 12 October 2023, subject to government approval.

Floors made of recycled plastic are the perfect addition to an engineering company’s £15 million refit, as the firm bids to go greener. Doncaster-based Polypipe, one of Europe's largest and most innovative manufacturers of piping, underfloor heating and energy-efficient ventilation, is undergoing one of the largest single investments in its 40-year history. The company, which is part of the Genuit Group, an expanded collaboration of businesses which serve the construction industry by providing sustainable water, climate and ventilation management solutions, aims to use 62 per cent of its tonnage from recycled plastics by 2025. As part of the refurbishment at its Edlington site, more than £300,000 has been invested in new flooring in its two production halls - home to plastic injection moulding machinery. Using innovative Abaplas technology from award-winning Leicestershire-based resin flooring company, Abacus Flooring Solutions 33,000 square foot of flooring has been installed, followed by a top-coat resin. The same flooring systems - used from recycled plastics - have been installed at venues including Wembley stadium and JCB’s headquarters. As part of the flooring installation, the team at Abacus Flooring Solutions used 2800kgs of resin coating, 1275kgs of recycled plastic and two eight yard skips of empty resin containers were recycled. Darren Fox, head of engineering at Polypipe, said: “We have got a vision to create a world-class plastic injection moulding facility and the product and service that Abacus Flooring Solutions offered us aligned perfectly with that vision." “We are really interested in the use of recycled plastic in our flooring because it aligns perfectly with our sustainability goals and targets.” The majority of the flooring is a serviceable anti-slip area in grey, with demarcation for walkways and pedestrian crossings to keep vehicles and pedestrians safe. Darren added that the first phase of the flooring installation, in production hall one, involved the complete refurbishment of an older building, while phase two, in hall two, saw Abacus workers laying flooring around production, so Polypipe productivity never ceased. He added: “It’s really great to show visitors and investors around the facility and actually tell them that they are walking on recycled plastic. It’s been an absolutely fantastic partnership between us and Abacus Flooring Solutions.” Nick Megson, Managing Director of Abacus Flooring Solutions, founded the firm in 2020 after more than 30 years in the resin flooring industry. He said: “We are delighted to have been able to have not only provided a fantastic product to a much-valued customer as part of their refurbishment, but also to have provided a product that runs parallel to their sustainability goals. By re-using plastic, we are able to save thousands of tonnes of plastic from going to landfill, which is extremely satisfying.” To find out more about Abacus Flooring Solutions, please visit their website here

Equipmake has partnered with the world’s largest sightseeing company, Big Bus Tours, in a fleet deal that will see 10 double-deck, open-top buses repowered with its cutting edge electric zero emission electric drivetrain technology. As millions of tourists arrive into the capital every week, many hop on an iconic open-top tour bus to see the city’s famous and historic sites. Supporting Big Bus Tours’ commitment to sustainability, Equipmake is working with the operator to convert a significant proportion of its existing fleet from diesel to fully electric. The 10 vehicles scheduled for repowering are all Ankai double-deck sightseeing buses – and each will be converted to incorporate Equipmake’s cutting-edge Zero-Emission Drivetrain (ZED) technology, which in this specification features a 327kWh capacity battery, providing in excess of 120 mile daily range. The first vehicle will enter service in Q1 2024. Ian Foley, CEO of Equipmake, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Big Bus Tours as it continues to make its fleet more sustainable. It’s fantastic to work with companies that share a forward-thinking mindset and recognise the immense advantages of repowering." "By choosing to repower, Big Bus Tours will not only benefit from an excellent opportunity to achieve net-zero targets and play a key role in improving local air quality, but also make significant operating cost savings over the purchase of a new electric bus.” Gerry Price, Executive Vice President at Big Bus Tours, added: “Our partnership with Equipmake will significantly support us as we transition our fleet to zero emissions. The state-of-the-art technology it has developed and its shared commitment to sustainability makes this a hugely exciting opportunity for us." "Through innovations like this, we will be playing our part in improving the capital’s air quality and giving the hundreds of thousands of tourists who use our sightseeing services every year an even more enjoyable experience.” Each Equipmake repower is completely bespoke to the requirements of the specific vehicle with service routes simulated to ensure the optimum battery level is selected, and that required mileage is achievable. The ZED, which is completely modular and scalable and can be applied to single as well as double-decker buses, features Equipmake’s in-house developed electric motor, inverter, and power electronics, combined with the latest in lithium-ion batteries. In addition, one of its most important features is Equipmake’s patented ultra-efficient thermal management system, which maintains all three of the ZED’s key components – the battery pack, motor, and inverter – at an optimum operating temperature, maximising vehicle range. Featuring an advanced water-glycol cooling circuit, the system has the added benefit of providing interior heating during cold conditions with captured thermal energy. When the battery is depleted at the end of a complete duty cycle, it can be recharged at the depot overnight via a CSS DC charging point. By choosing to repower existing buses using Equipmake’s revolutionary technology and methods, significant cost and environmental benefits are achievable. Repurposing an existing bus chassis and body can save 90 tonnes of embedded CO2, in comparison to producing brand new electric double deck buses. Each conversion costs less than half of a new electric bus, and with most buses in service for 14 years or more, operators can make significant savings by repowering a bus halfway through its operational life. Photo Credit - Pete Cook.

The Black Talent Awards – the professional talent awards backed by Merlin Entertainments, Serco, Lloyds Banking Group, Haleon, Jacobs, Centrica and JC Decaux, announced its 2023 award winners at a black tie event held at Birmingham’s Edgbaston Stadium recently in an event attended by Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street. The awards, now in its second year running following a successful 2022 launch, recognises outstanding yet relatable professional Black role models, across many industries, who are not only excelling in their careers but are having a significant impact, either in their own organisations or through wider social initiatives, in making the working world a more equitable place, especially for Black and minority employees and candidates. Denise Myers, founder of the Black Talent Awards and CEO of recruitment agency Evenfields and Evenfields Community, commented: “Homogenous narratives of career and entrepreneurial success need diversification. Young Black talent needs to see role models who are relatable and who are succeeding on terms that they can identify with. This year’s winners include individuals who have gone on to forge lives very different from the one in which they came." "These awards celebrate the remarkable feats of those who have triumphed, despite the disadvantages posed by race, gender or social background, to demonstrate what is possible. You cannot be what you cannot see.” The Black Talent Awards 2023 winners include, in the Senior Leader category, Trevor Sterling, the first Black Senior partner to be appointed in a Top 100 UK law firm. From leaving school with few qualifications to now leading in some of the country’s most high-profile court cases, Sterling’s community work also includes playing an instrumental part in the statue campaigns for Nelson Mandela and Mary Seacole, the eminent nurse who cared for enslaved African people and British soldiers working in Kingston, Jamaica as well as in Central America and Crimea. Within the FMCG and Retail category, Leon Donald scooped the gong for his work in helping supermarket Tesco become a more inclusive employer. Brought up within the care system, Donald prevailed over his personal setbacks to acquire an MBA at Alliance Manchester Business School. Donald spearheaded the Tesco Black Action Plan (BAP) – an 8-year strategy to help dismantle systemic racism and enable Tesco to become the UK’s largest private sector employer to drive fair and equitable representation for the Black community across key areas: talent, commercial, brand and community. Executive resourcing executive, Christina Brooks, won the Rising Star category for her work in promoting inclusivity via her business, Ruebik by changing the profile of key decision-makers within some of the world’s biggest corporates. Previously, Brooks was the Global Executive Talent Acquisition Lead at Rolls-Royce. Brooks is also currently working on a task force with the Metropolitan Police working with young offenders and underrepresented groups to [what are the goals of this task force?]. She maintains these achievements alongside being a carer to her mother and son, who has additional needs. Nik Muchatuta won the Charitable, Voluntary and Social Change category. A Black female engineer, Muchatuta has worked hard to improve diversity and inclusion within the nuclear energy sector through her initiative REIN (Racial Equality In Nuclear). Dr. Elizabeth Shaw scooped the Trailblazer gong. Dr. Shaw is founder of the platform 1000 Black Voices, a network conceived in the immediate aftermath of the murder of George Floyd - supporting businesses, investors and wider communities to combat racism and racial bias globally. Dr. Shaw’s work includes successfully leading a trade mission to New York, in collaboration with the British Consulate General, to accelerate enterprise and growth. Critically, she has forged new pathways between individuals and industry giants, creating opportunities for sustainable funds and venture capital to be directed to Black founders. Such change cannot move fast enough without the backing of businesses. Therefore, the Black Talent Awards also gives vital recognition to the employers and organisations that have made tangible and accountable efforts in their DE&I initiatives through sustainable talent acquisition, development and senior appointments of Black executives. KPMG scooped the Large Business gong for the second consecutive year for its work in upskilling young Black women in coding, boosting its employee retention rate via its Black Heritage Programme and increasing the number of Black directors it has appointed from 9 to 32. Rob Smith, Managing Director of Midway Attractions at Merlin Entertainments, said: "Merlin Entertainments is thrilled to stand as a proud sponsor of the Black Talent Awards again this year. As we celebrate excellence and innovation, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the remarkable winners of the evening, your achievements are a testament to limitless possibilities. We believe that diversity and inclusion are not just principles to uphold, but the vibrant threads that weave the fabric to success. Through this partnership, we celebrate the boundless potential and extraordinary achievements of Black talent, while reaffirming our commitment to fostering a world where every unique voice is heard and celebrated.” Stephanie Hamilton, Chief HR Officer, Serco UK & Europe, commented: “At Serco, we are committed to making a difference to the communities we serve every day." "We seek to remove barriers and create a workplace environment where people can be their authentic selves and achieve their ultimate career ambitions. By sponsoring the Black Talent Awards, we are honoured to celebrate the outstanding achievements of Black professionals across the UK.”

In recent years, one sport has taken the world by storm, captivating athletes and enthusiasts alike with its fast-paced, engaging gameplay and accessibility: padel tennis. Originating in Mexico in the 1960s, padel tennis has experienced explosive growth, spreading like wildfire across the globe. From its humble beginnings to its current status as one of the fastest-growing sports worldwide, the growth of padel tennis is a remarkable story of passion, innovation, and inclusivity. Origins And Evolution Padel tennis, often referred to simply as "padel," traces its roots to the sunny shores of Acapulco, Mexico, in 1969. Enrique Corcuera, a Mexican businessman, is credited with creating the sport when he adapted tennis to the available space by enclosing it with walls and introducing a smaller, solid racket. This innovation gave birth to the game we now recognize as padel tennis. Unlike traditional tennis, padel tennis is typically played in doubles on a much smaller court, enclosed by transparent walls. The solid paddles used in padel tennis, along with the wall's involvement in the game, create a unique dynamic that sets it apart from its predecessor. Global Expansion While padel tennis initially remained relatively confined to Mexico and a few other Latin American countries, its international expansion began in earnest during the 21st century. Europe played a pivotal role in driving the sport's growth, with Spain emerging as a padel powerhouse. Spain's love for the sport soon led to padel courts popping up across the continent, particularly in countries like Sweden, Italy, and the United Kingdom. The sport's appeal transcended age and skill levels, making it accessible to a wide range of players. Padel clubs and courts sprung up in urban and suburban areas, providing opportunities for people of all backgrounds to enjoy the game. Key Factors Driving Growth Several factors have contributed to the phenomenal growth of padel tennis: Accessibility : Padel is known for its accessibility, as it requires less physical exertion than traditional tennis and can be enjoyed by players of varying fitness levels and ages. The smaller court size makes it easier for beginners to grasp the basics quickly. Social And Inclusive : Padel has a strong social component, fostering camaraderie among players. Its doubles format encourages social interaction and teamwork, making it an attractive option for those seeking a fun and sociable sport. Low Barrier To Entry : Unlike some sports that demand expensive equipment and facilities, padel tennis requires minimal gear and can be played on relatively inexpensive courts. This affordability has made it a popular choice among recreational athletes. Professionalisation : The emergence of professional padel tournaments, such as the World Padel Tour, has added to the sport's appeal. Top-ranked players from around the world compete in these events, further popularizing padel tennis. Celebrity Endorsement : The sport has gained celebrity advocates, including tennis stars like Rafael Nadal, who have helped raise its profile on the global stage. The growth of padel tennis is nothing short of remarkable. What began as a niche sport in Mexico has evolved into a global phenomenon, with millions of players and fans worldwide. Its inclusivity, affordability, and social nature have made it a beloved pastime for people of all ages and backgrounds. As padel tennis continues to expand, it's evident that the sport's future is bright. With increasing participation, professional competition, and support from enthusiastic communities, the sky is the limit for padel tennis as it continues its ascent on the global sports stage. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a newcomer looking for a fun and engaging sport, padel tennis is here to stay and welcomes players from all walks of life.