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

As the leaves change colours and the air turns crisp, a special day arrives in the calendar that pays homage to one of the most beloved fruits of the season - apples. National Apple Day, celebrated on October 21 in the UK is the day when we get to recognise the rich history, cultural significance, and mouth-watering diversity of the humble apple. National Apple Day originated in the United Kingdom, where it was first established by Common Ground, an environmental charity. The purpose of this day was to reconnect people with the countryside and their local orchards. Since its inception in 1990, this day has gained popularity, both in the UK and around the world, as a means of promoting the importance of apples and orchards. Apples have deep cultural roots in many societies. They often symbolise knowledge, temptation, and health in various mythologies and folklore. In Celtic traditions, the apple was considered a symbol of immortality, while in Norse mythology, the goddess Idun was the guardian of rejuvenating apples. National Apple Day provides an opportunity to explore and appreciate the cultural heritage associated with this fruit. National Apple Day is an excellent time to visit local orchards. Many apple orchards open their doors to the public, allowing visitors to pick their own apples, learn about different apple varieties, and even participate in fun activities like apple bobbing and cider pressing. These experiences help people connect with the source of their food and gain an appreciation for the hard work that goes into apple farming. Apples come in a staggering array of varieties, each with its own flavour and culinary uses. From the sweet and crisp Gala apple to the tart Granny Smith, there's an apple for every palate. On National Apple Day, food enthusiasts can explore recipes that showcase these varieties in dishes ranging from classic apple pies to innovative salads and savoury mains. Sustainability is a growing concern in the agricultural world, and apples are no exception. National Apple Day serves as a platform to promote sustainable apple farming practices. It encourages the use of traditional orchards, which are essential for preserving biodiversity and supporting wildlife. National Apple Day is not just about eating apples; it's also about learning. Various events and workshops are held to educate the public about apple cultivation, preservation techniques, and the importance of protecting orchards. Schools often participate in apple-themed projects, fostering an understanding of where food comes from and the value of local produce. National Apple Day is a celebration that brings people together to appreciate the humble apple's significance in our culture, history, and daily lives. From indulging in delectable apple treats to visiting orchards and learning about sustainable farming, this day reminds us of the importance of local, seasonal produce. So, on October 21 and beyond, take a bite of your favourite apple and enjoy the flavours of autumn while paying homage to this remarkable fruit.

Redditch company joins with Warwick charity to fund two more Paediatric Palliative Care Consultants for Birmingham Children’s Hospital Birmingham Children’s Hospital is to become a training hospital in Paediatric Palliative Medicine and will be providing training for two new consultants thanks to funding by a children’s charity and corporate sponsors Oakland International. News of the £310k funding, which will double the number of existing roles in the region, came during a special event in Birmingham this week (17th) hosted by Molly Ollys Founder Rachel Ollerenshaw. The donation is heavily supported by the storage and logistics business which has its headquarters in Boeley, and will cover two years of training for the consultants. Molly Ollys was established following the death of Rachel and husband Tim’s eight-year-old daughter Molly from a rare kidney cancer and marked its tenth anniversary last year. The Warwick-based charity supports children with life-threatening illnesses and their families and helps with emotional support as well as donates wishes, therapeutic toys and books to children directly and through hospitals across the UK. And it funded the region’s first ever consultant in paediatric palliative medicine between 2018 and 2021, since when the post has been permanently incorporated by the NHS. There are currently only 25 such specialists in the UK. Nationally there is a shortage of between 50 to 60 consultants within this specialist Paediatric Palliative Medicine service which helps enable patients to live their best lives. Oakland and members of BCH were among special guests at an informal drinks evening at a Birmingham city centre venue on Tuesday night, when Rachel provided an overview of how their support is making a real and significant, long-term impact to so many children across the region. Co-Founder and Group CEO, Dean Attwell, said: “Molly Ollys is a truly wonderful charity supporting so many children and their families through such difficult times. The link to Birmingham Children’s Hospital is another example of an under-resourced but much-needed service identified and championed by Molly Ollys and we are delighted to be part of the funding support team." “It was a pleasure to have attended the launch event in Birmingham with so many other businesses and potential supporters. We were happy to share our experiences of the journey so far and to show other potential sponsors what it means to get involved, both in terms of helping the charity but also as a return on investment for their own businesses. Charitable giving with a positive return on investment? Now there’s a thought!” Since Molly Ollys started more than £4 million has been raised to emotionally support children across the UK. Another of the charity’s key NHS projects was the creation and refurbishment of Magnolia House at Birmingham Children’s Hospital. This is a safe and non-clinical space where medical teams and families can have important discussions. Rachel Ollerenshaw said: “The need for Consultant-led Paediatric Palliative care is far more important than many realise and primarily that is the case because it is a world that few people fortunately have inhabited." “From our own experiences with Molly we realised the importance of enabling a good death. Molly had a choice, as parents and her family we had a choice thanks to the support of a consultant in Warwickshire where we live. However, we realised that that care was different down the road in the West Midlands." “So, Molly Ollys plugged that gap by paying for the first consultant for three years in order to prove the need for the NHS to then take this forward. Once proved Birmingham Children’s Hospital quickly appointed a second consultant with the help of Acorns Hospice. Two consultants meant that BCH could become a training hospital." “We are therefore delighted that we can continue this project with the funding of training for two more consultants. From zero to four in a seven year period is a big step change and will have a positive long term impact for palliative children in the West Midlands and surrounding areas.” She added: “We are extremely proud to be able to support this latest project but none of it would be possible without the magnificent help of key corporate supporters. Oakland International have been incredible. They have really taken time to listen, to meet health professionals and to understand the significance.” The funding has been particularly welcomed by the hospital’s current Consultants Yifan Liang and Christine Mott. Yifan, from Birmingham, said: “With the current consultant numbers, we are only capturing the most needy children and there’s a lot more need that we could be addressing." “This vital business funding will enable us to provide the capacity to serve families better through planning, clinical reviews and which will be more sustainable for everyone concerned." “Thanks to Molly Ollys, Oakland International, and other corporate businesses supporting this much needed initiative, we are starting to see change and helping families in the way they want and need for the short and long term, and getting the end results for individuals as we roll it out and help more people.” Anyone wishing to donate to Molly Ollys can do so here