Experts behind a world-leading airport operating system with an enviable record of cyber-security built small models with incorporated digital systems to show what happens during an attack. WAISL’s airport predictive operation centre (APOC), called AeroWise, is embedded with cyber-security from partner GRAMAX. Its experts have counter-intuitively built small, physical replicas of the airports that their technology protects – even embedded with the associated IP and Coda systems. The models depict the departure halls, arrivals locations, immigration desks, security areas, car parks, runways, gates and railway connections. When an attack is simulated trains start going the wrong way, lights turn off or on and there are major systems failures. It helps give an understanding about what is at stake should an actual airport fall victim to a cyber-attack, and it assists Programme Logical Controllers ‘war-game’ this eventuality. WAISL and GRAMAX are rolling out their products across Europe following successes in India, where they are headquartered. Hackers and bad actors constantly attack airport and transport systems, as the European Cyber Security Agency (ENISA) and the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) have warned. The attacks are becoming faster and more adaptive according to the experts at WAISL and GRAMAX. The companies’ technologies combine to create cyber-security that has thwarted serious attacks, including those from malign state actors at times of geo-political instability. The cyber-security technology is installed at three Indian airports - Hyderabad, New Delhi and Goa – with others in India and Europe coming online soon. AeroWise is the first APOC of its kind in the world and uses AI and digital-twin technology to create an ‘auto-pilot for airports’. Andy Bordass, an airport veteran who is heading the roll-out of WAISL’s AeroWise system across Europe, said: “Aviation operations today rest on an expansive and tightly coupled digital ecosystem where failure is no longer isolated or easily contained. “Airports and airlines rely on interconnected systems spanning passenger processing, flight operations, third-party platforms, and legacy infrastructure that cannot be paused, patched, or replaced without consequence. “Across Europe, recent technology and cyber-related disruptions have demonstrated that when these systems falter, the effects are immediate, highly visible, and operationally destabilising, rapidly cascading across terminals, airspace, and public confidence." “It is a 24/7 battle and WAISL and GRAMAX’s partnership aligns two Indian tech pioneers whose systems dovetail to provide as secure a defence as is possible. It is not only airports’ own vulnerabilities that have to be considered but those of companies in the supply chain and those of passengers." “The number of cyber events that airports have to deal with is astonishing and attacks are only going to get more sophisticated due to hackers utilising AI. It is why we need AeroWise – which uses AI and digital-twin tech – along with GRAMAX’s cyber-security to keep ahead of the criminals. And the models of airports the staff have built show how they are willing to see things differently to better understand what hackers and cyber-threats would look like on the ground." “It might seem a backward step or counter-intuitive to build models but it shows the lengths to which they will go to defend airports. They are replicas in miniature that include the IP and Scoda systems." “I know that our cyber experts are predicting more advanced ransomware, deep-fake targeted phishing attacks and data exfiltration.The modelling – both digital and physical – enables them to keep on top of threats." “AeroWise is a total airport management system that integrates landside, terminal and airside systems and provides real-time data to the control centre. It increases capacity, drives efficiencies and saves operators money – and with GRAMAX’s cyber-security gives protections against insidious cyber-threats. We are talking with airports across Europe about AeroWise and operators are increasingly attracted to it.” Top photo: Delhi airport in model form WAISL - Preferred digital transformation partner for airports worldwide.

A rural Lake District hospitality venue has launched a new elopement package in a nod to the rising trend of couples choosing greater intimacy for their wedding day.   The rationale for Wild Boar Estate’s new wedding service comes from the rapid increase in elopement specific requests at the venue.   It mirrors the continuing success of sister hotel Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa which in recent years has hosted a record number of eloping couples seeking a more personalised and lower cost wedding ceremony.   Focusing on intimacy with a bit of adventure thrown in, Wild Boar Estate’s 'Escape to the Lakes' elopement wedding package features romantic touches such as the use of the estate’s grounds and woodlands for photographs, an engraved bird box symbolising the wedding date and a 4x4 Land Rover ride up to a private tarn.   English Lakes Hotels Resorts & Venues wedding and events manager Lucy Carway says: “We’ve worked hard to develop our elopement services so we can provide an intimate option for smaller weddings, as we have seen a rise in specific enquiries for this in the last couple of years." “More couples are looking to keep the day for themselves and then have a larger celebration party back at home. This allows them to have a day that is less overwhelming and more about the two of them."   “There is a cost element associated with this as well, as it allows them to escape to the lakes without putting the pressure on guests, especially elderly relatives and parents with young children, to travel long distances and stay away from home." “We have deliberately created a luxurious elopement and ‘mini-moon’ experience all rolled into one. And a lot of couples are opting to extend their stays past the two included nights, with some staying here for up to a week.”  The rising popularity of elopement weddings in recent years has seen more couples seeking scenic or remote areas to get away from it all and make their vows. Reducing costs is a key factor, with the average wedding now reportedly coming in at an eye-watering £22,000.   Elopement weddings at Low Wood Bay virtually trebled in 2025, with 31 bookings compared to 11 in 2024.   The new elopement service at Wild Boar Estate is based on two nights’ B&B accommodation in a luxury room, romantic 3-course evening meals with a bottle of wine and added treats like a cosy wood-fired afternoon tea. And there’s the option for couples to extend their stay with a mini-honeymoon.   Other key features include the provision of witnesses and a wedding co-ordinator to oversee the whole day. There is also the chance for the couple to immerse themselves in a relaxing 3 hour thermal journey in the spa at nearby Low Wood Bay.   Photo: Wild Boar Estate wedding co-ordinators Lucy Carway (left) & Ioanna Stergiaki.

A full sized JCB digger dressed up like a collector’s scale model stole a few hearts on Valentine’s Day – and stopped Londoners in their tracks outside an iconic railway station.   The ‘JCB Backhoe in a Box’ drew huge crowds when it was first unveiled at the digger maker’s World HQ in Rocester, Staffordshire. Now the capital is digging the love for this innovative display as it arrives in London - proving romance really does come in all shapes and sizes, even giant, beautifully boxed ones.   The JCB Backhoe in a Box - a full-sized digger presented as though it were a scale model - has been carefully dismantled in Staffordshire and, transported south, before being lovingly reassembled and unveiled on Valentine’s Day outside King’s Cross railway station.   The striking installation will be on display for a full week from February 14th, giving commuters, visitors and Valentine’s Day couples the perfect spot for a memorable photo. Standing nearly 15 feet high and more than 20 feet across in its special packaging, the life size display is impossible to miss. Visitors to King’s Cross can enjoy the exhibit day or night, with the installation illuminated after dark to ensure the magic continues long after the evening commute.   JCB Deputy Chairman George Bamford said: “There’s no better day to celebrate something you love than Valentine’s Day - and Britain has loved the JCB backhoe loader for more than 70 years.” JCB Worldwide Events Manager Alice Taylor has helped oversee the installation. She said: “King’s Cross is always buzzing, but this installation brings something truly unique to the area. It’s fantastic to engineer some romance in London by unveiling the Backhoe in a Box in London on Valentine’s Day.” Its appearance in London marks the start of a UK-wide tour celebrating both JCB innovation and the enduring appeal of one of Britain’s best known machines – invented by JCB in 1953. The next stop will be the Cheltenham Festival in March. First unveiled at JCB’s World HQ as part of the company’s 80th anniversary celebrations, the Backhoe in a Box is a playful nod to the popular 1:32 scale models cherished by enthusiasts.

Car buyers in and around Portsmouth now have some exciting new options to choose from, following the opening of Hendy’s new Chery showroom on the Southampton Road. The new facility will officially open this month, operating alongside the existing Hendy Ford Store. The launch brings the total number of vehicle brands available through Hendy showrooms across the south of England to 26. Chery becomes the latest addition to the family-run Hendy Group’s growing brand line-up, following the arrival of OMODA, JAECOO, Geely and BYD in 2025. The new Chery site on Southampton Road will offer stock and test drives for the full Chery UK model range, including the Tiggo 7 compact petrol SUV, the seven-seat Tiggo 8 and the flagship Tiggo 9, which features Chery’s Super Hybrid Powertrain. Alongside new car sales, the new Portsmouth Chery dealership will provide a comprehensive aftersales offering for customers, covering all vehicle brands and including servicing, maintenance, repairs and MOT. David Cooper, Regional Director at Hendy Group, said: “Adding Chery to our Portsmouth site reinforces our commitment to delivering outstanding value and a diverse choice of world-class brands. Chery’s emphasis on innovation and customer care aligns perfectly with our own approach, and we look forward to welcoming new and existing Hendy customers alike to explore what Chery has to offer.” Further information is available at: New & Used Chery Cars - Browse Online | Hendy Chery

The Hubb Foundation and Staffordshire digger giant JCB have launched a unique partnership to ensure thousands of vulnerable children across the city have free half-term holiday activities throughout the year.   The three-year £375,000 partnership will fund 1,000 activity places every half term in February, May and October at up to 35 Stoke-on-Trent schools and fund a marketing post for three years.   The ‘Hubb Holidays’ scheme, which runs throughout the week, will see schools supporting children who will benefit most from attending activities and experiences ranging from sports clubs and treasure hunts to poetry workshops and fun STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) themed sessions.   Launching the scheme were 50 children at St Mary’s Primary School, Tunstall, who enjoyed a morning of robotics STEM workshops run by teachers, trusted activity providers and JCB apprentices, as well as English enrichment sessions with Pep the Poet and a JCB digger experience. The activities were followed by a healthy free lunch.   The partnership completes the full cycle of school holiday activities ensuring youngsters from age 4 to 16 have wraparound holiday support for the entire year - with the Government HAF (Holiday Activities and Food) programme funding the main Easter, Summer and Christmas breaks.   The Hubb Foundation Chief Executive Officer Adam Yates said: “In Stoke-on-Trent more than 19,000 children are classed as living in absolute poverty. Since our charity launched in 2018, the programme has made a massive difference to the city’s most vulnerable children raising their aspirations, providing hundreds of thousands of healthy meals and starting to drive great social change."  “The JCB partnership is a real gamechanger and will ensure that every school holiday can be a happy, fun and healthy experience for those most in need across the city. We also know it will be an absolute lifeline for parents too.” The partnership between JCB and the Hubb Foundation began during the first Covid 19 lockdown in 2020, when chefs at JCB’s World HQ in Rocester prepared 35,000 meals for the charity to deliver to vulnerable families across Stoke on Trent. Over the past four years, the two organisations have also collaborated on JCB’s annual Christmas Toy Appeal, with the Foundation distributing almost 6,000 donated gifts from JCB employees to disadvantaged children throughout the city.   JCB Chairman Lord Bamford said: “We are delighted to support the incredible work of The Hubb Foundation with a £375,000 donation over the next three years. JCB employs more than 1,700 people from Stoke-on-Trent at its six Staffordshire factories, so the city and its people play a big part in our company’s success. JCB is a family company so it’s important to us that all children across Stoke-on-Trent have the very best start in life and have the confidence to aim high, not least because they could be our apprentices and employees of the future.”  To find out more about The Hubb Foundation visit here .   and for more information about JCB in the community visit here.

Owning a valuable art collection is a source of immense pride and personal satisfaction, but it comes with responsibilities that go far beyond curation and display. One of the most important—and often overlooked—tasks for collectors is ensuring their treasures are properly insured. In a market where works of art can be worth millions and provenance disputes are increasingly complex, having the right coverage is as essential as selecting the right piece for your gallery wall. Understanding the Risks Art collections face a range of risks, from physical damage to theft or natural disasters. Fire, flood, accidental impact, or even changes in humidity can irreparably damage delicate works, while high-profile thefts make headlines around the world every year. In addition, art is a uniquely illiquid asset: the time required to value, replace, or repair a damaged piece can be considerable, and in many cases, certain works are irreplaceable. Collectors must also be aware of less obvious risks. Loaning pieces to exhibitions, for example, increases exposure to damage or loss, while transporting art—even between private residences—presents its own hazards. Moreover, market fluctuations can dramatically alter the value of a collection, which makes periodic reassessment of insurance coverage vital. Types of Insurance Coverage When insuring an art collection, there are several types of coverage to consider: All-Risks Insurance: Often regarded as the gold standard, all-risks policies cover damage or loss from a wide range of perils unless specifically excluded. Policies can be tailored to cover individual items or entire collections. Agreed Value vs. Market Value: Agreed value means the insurer and owner agree on the artwork’s value at the time of underwriting, providing certainty in the event of a claim. Market value policies pay out according to the value of the piece at the time of loss, which can fluctuate significantly, especially for contemporary or emerging artists. Transit and Exhibition Coverage: Special policies are available to protect art while in transit or on loan to museums, galleries, or exhibitions. These policies often include coverage for packing, handling, and temporary storage. Legal and Provenance Protection: Some insurers provide coverage for legal disputes over ownership or provenance, an increasingly important consideration as the art market becomes more global and complex. Valuation: The Foundation of Good Insurance Accurate valuation is critical. Insurers typically require professional appraisals from recognised experts. It is not sufficient to rely on purchase price alone, as the market value can evolve quickly. Regular revaluation—every two to three years—is generally recommended to ensure that coverage keeps pace with changes in the market. Practical Considerations Insurance premiums are influenced by a range of factors: the type of art, total value, security measures, storage conditions, and even geographic location. Many insurers now offer guidance on risk mitigation, including climate-controlled storage, secure display cases, alarms, and CCTV. Such measures can reduce premiums and, more importantly, protect the collection. It is also wise to maintain meticulous records: photographs, invoices, provenance documents, and condition reports. In the event of a claim, thorough documentation can expedite settlement and strengthen legal standing. Working with Specialists Art insurance is a niche market. General household or commercial policies rarely provide adequate protection for high-value or rare items. Specialist art insurers, brokers, and independent valuers can provide bespoke advice, ensuring that coverage aligns with the collector’s objectives and the nature of the collection. A Balancing Act Insuring an art collection requires balancing protection with practicalities. Over-insurance can be expensive, while under-insurance exposes collectors to catastrophic loss. As with the curation of the collection itself, a considered, strategic approach is essential. In the end, insurance is about more than financial reimbursement; it is about safeguarding a legacy. Art connects us to culture, history, and creativity, and for collectors, the right insurance policy ensures that these treasures endure—secure, valued, and appreciated—for generations to come. Lee Boswell, Director of UK based insurers Alan Boswell Group  shares five tips for consideration when insuring art: "An art collection is a prime example of why off-the-peg, one-size-fits-all insurance policies aren't always the most suitable. If nothing else, every art collection is different and the value of individual pieces can vary widely. An independent broker can offer a bespoke solution based on the items owned, the circumstances under which they are kept and so on." "Getting a personal one-to-one service with an insurance broker who knows something about the subject means that accurate valuations are more likely, and you can feel reassured that the value of your collection is appreciated and understood," adds Lee. Five considerations when thinking about insuring an art collection: 1. Choose the most suitable cover Some insurers might consider "an art collection" to be a homogenous thing covered by a standard policy, but art needn't always be paintings hanging on a wall. Your collection might include antiques, sculptures or even comic books. Finding someone who understands what you're talking about is the first step in arranging the right cover for your collection. 2. Re-value regularly It's important to have regular valuations of your collection and to be aware of what the most valuable pieces within it are. Ideally this should be done ahead of each year's policy renewal, to give the insurer and you plenty of time to agree on the levels of cover is required. 3. Automatically cover new acquisitions Some insurance policies will automatically cover you for up to 25% more when you buy new pieces, which is a good idea if you are actively buying. Of course, you should still keep your insurer informed of new additions and have them individually valued as soon as possible. 4. Increase on death Some insurers will apply an automatic increase to the sum insured of a piece, following the death of an artist. The amount of the increased cover can vary from insurer to insurer. You should arrange to have the piece independently re-valued in the wake of the death as well, to ensure the coverage is adequate. 5.Defective title cover As well as having your collection protected against theft or damage, you should also make sure you are insured against the risk of being sold a stolen piece of art, which is known as defective title cover. This will cover you if you are legally obliged to return this item to its rightful owner and will reimburse you up to the value of that item.

Commercial cleaning product manufacturer and distributor Robert Scott has added two new AI-powered robots to its steadily expanding cobotics range. Alastair Scott, sales director at Robert Scott commented: “For some time, Robert Scott has been championing the MT1, the world’s first AI-powered scrubber dryer robot for large-scale environments, such as warehouses, airports, and shopping centres. Following its success, we are now excited to announce the launch of the new MT1 Vac and MT1 Max,” The MT1 Vac delivers powerful, industrial-grade suction, capturing everything from fine particles to larger debris with close-edge cleaning along walls and corners. Its low-profile design reaches easily under furniture, and a dual independent air-duct system boosts suction efficiency by 200%. A 6 L trash bin and 14 dust bags provide extended runtime with fewer emptying intervals. AI-powered floor recognition automatically adjusts suction and brush speed to suit carpets or hard floors, protecting surfaces while maintaining performance. A HEPA-grade filtration system captures over 98% of particles as small as 0.3μm, with an optional HEPA 13 filter offering up to 99.97% efficiency, while 55 cm suction path increases coverage and reduces cleaning time. Modular, tool-free components minimise maintenance and replacement time. MT1 Vac The MT1 Vac is the world’s first AI-powered vacuuming robot for large-scale environments. It features a Visual Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping (VSLAM) system which enhances navigation in dynamic environments, while an ultra-wide scanning field allows efficient coverage of large areas. Dual disc brushes manage both large debris and fine dust, supported by high-flow negative-pressure ventilation and effective filtration to prevent secondary pollution. MT1 Max Built on the successful MT1 platform with enhanced capabilities and designed for indoor and semi-outdoor environments, including warehouses, loading bays and car parks, the MT1 Max is equipped with advanced 3D LiDAR, dual SoCs for greater computing power, and improved obstacle-crossing ability – adapting seamlessly to complex conditions. With optimised environmental adaptability and a fully automated workflow, MT1 Max ensures safer, smarter, and more efficient cleaning across dynamic spaces. It features a comprehensive multi-dimensional safety system that provides structural protection, intelligent responses, slope climbing, rain avoidance, and efficient obstacle handling, further supported by a 1.2 metre warning light, safety projection, and audible-visual alerts for proactive risk prevention. Alastair Scott continued: “Never underestimate the pure theatre of cobotics when the machines look so good. The MT1 Max features a large 3D lidar radar on the top of the robot – which looks like a flashing police light, and which improves its obstacle avoidance and location detection. This means it can also operate outside – although the built-in rain sensor will send it back indoors on wet days!” Smarter solutions Alastair continues: “Expanding our offering in automated cleaning technologies with the MT1 Vac and MT1 Max marks a significant milestone in Robert Scott’s 100+ year history. It is rewarding to be able to demonstrate how our rich heritage and long-standing expertise is continuing to drive us forward as we lead the way in next-generation innovative cleaning solutions." “As automation, AI and the Internet of Things continue to evolve at a rapid pace, and the cleaning sector seeks smarter solutions to economic challenges, it’s clear that robotics will play a key role in the future of commercial cleaning. Our growing robotics division, backed by 100 years of cleaning know-how, positions us strongly to lead the way in intelligent cleaning tools.” For more information, please visit here .

Deliveroo has launched a new packaging box for food delivery, featuring a locking mechanism design developed by Sheffield Hallam University’s award-winning apprentices. The new packaging, which hit the Deliveroo packaging webstore last week, is the result of a unique three-way partnership between Deliveroo, packaging producer BioPak and Sheffield Hallam University. The partnership was formed as part of Deliveroo’s first Sustainable Packaging Challenge in 2024. The 2024 project challenged apprenticeship students on the Packaging Professional BSc at Sheffield Hallam to create an innovative, sustainable and cost-effective design to prevent spillages and maintain food at the right temperature. The winning design, created by Packaging Professional degree apprentices Josephine Cooper and William Shaw, was selected for its innovative updates to an existing takeaway box, including a brand-new sealing system which uses additional folds in the cardboard to create a more secure locking mechanism. The students were celebrated for designing a practical solution that enhances the stability of the packaging as the food travels from the restaurant to the customer’s front door, with the aim of decreasing spillages and maintaining the temperature. The packaging’s innovative design has been produced without significant extra cost, making it a highly competitive option for restaurant partners. By opting for the apprentices’ design over traditional packaging options, partners will benefit from features designed to help combat two key challenges in the food delivery industry: temperature control and spillages. William Shaw and Josephine Cooper, winners of Deliveroo’s Sustainable Packaging challenge and the designers of the new packaging, said: “Seeing our design progress from a university project to a live product on the Deliveroo webstore is an incredible feeling. We focused on creating a locking mechanism that performs in the real world, and we’re proud to know our work can now be used by restaurants, reaching customer front doors across the UK. We hope this proves that sustainable packaging can be both highly functional and cost-effective.” Jen Bagshaw, Head of Packaging at Deliveroo, said: “We are constantly seeking innovative solutions to global challenges. Partnering with the talented apprentices at Sheffield Hallam University has been an inspiring journey, allowing us to champion the next generation of sustainable packaging designers." "By providing the platform and financial backing to turn the students’ creative vision into a reality, we are thrilled to see this solution officially launch on our webstore for our partners to purchase." Peter Macqueen, Associate Head, Sheffield Creative Industries Institute at Sheffield Hallam University, said: “We’re incredibly proud of all our apprentices who have been involved. Seeing them apply their studies to tackle a real challenge in the hospitality sector has been fantastic. It’s even more rewarding to see their winning concept with Deliveroo and BioPak evolve from a prototype into a product now available on the market.”

Notts Sport has announced the renewal of its long-standing partnership with England Hockey, continuing a collaboration that has supported the development of hockey facilities across the country for more than 14 years. As the only official facilities partner of England and GB Hockey, the renewed agreement will run until January 2029. Since the partnership began in 2012, Notts Sport has worked alongside England Hockey to provide clubs, schools and facility providers with specialist technical advice and independent guidance, supporting the planning, design and development of hockey facilities nationwide. The renewed partnership aligns with the launch of England Hockey’s Pitch Together Fund and reflects a shared ambition to improve facility quality, increase participation and support long-term sustainability across the sport. As part of the continued collaboration, Notts Sport will also once again sponsor the Boys’ and Girls’ School Championships, England Hockey’s flagship national school competitions involving hundreds of schools and thousands of young players from across the country each year. Rich Beer, Chief Executive of England Hockey, said: “Notts Sport renewing their partnership with England Hockey is a testament to the relationship we have with them and we are thrilled to have them back on board. As one of our most long-standing partners they have been a loyal and trusted partner for us for the last 14 years. Now with the new Pitch Together Fund in place we are looking forward to working together to help develop and improve more facilities that provide better places to play.” Duncan Bennett, CEO of Notts Sport, added: “We are delighted to extend our partnership with England Hockey which began back in 2012. Over that now 14-year period, the initial concept of offering clubs advice and support on their facilities has grown into a close working relationship at all levels of the sport." "Whilst the support we provide to England Hockey has grown and developed immensely since 2012, the original intention of offering free support and advice to clubs, schools and hockey players of all levels continues to be the core service and focus for us." "At a time where we are all increasingly aware of sustainability, environmental impacts, recycling and the use of plastics, it is clear that the specialist advice, services and support Notts Sport offer means that sustainable design has a key role to play in ensuring hockey is at the forefront of innovation and best practice.” The renewed partnership will help deliver tangible benefits for the hockey community by improving the quality and sustainability of facilities nationwide. By combining technical expertise, independent guidance and a shared commitment to innovation, Notts Sport and England Hockey aim to create better places to play, increase participation and ensure the sport continues to thrive at every level.

As National Apprenticeship Week reaches its 19th year, HMG Paints is demonstrating its continued commitment to workforce development within the sector through a showcase of the various development pathways found within apprenticeships in the business. Apprenticeships play a crucial role in the long-term development strategy of the HMG, with the development of technical expertise and industry knowledge through on-the-job learning being fully supported by leaders within the business, many of whom started their HMG careers as apprentices. Apprenticeships have played a key role for all employees looking to further their education and have proved to be great for those who want to advance in their career within HMG, with apprenticeship pathways supporting both early-career development and long-term advancement into more senior and specialist roles across the business. HMG has a long history of developing its own staff and offers a range of career development opportunities which are taken up by employees, around 40% of employees have taken part in external training courses during their time at HMG. In recent years, participation in apprenticeship and T-Level programs has continued to grow, with a significant number of employees participating in structured learning pathways since 2023. These programs span a wide range of pathways across the business, in both technical and non-technical roles. A member of staff who took a non-technical apprentice route was Head of People and Culture Melissa Strowbridge who undertook a Degree Level Apprenticeship in Business Management. Speaking on her time as an apprentice, completing her Melissa said: “My apprenticeship served me with an excellent launchpad for my career. It was more than just a qualification and equipped me with skills both inside and outside the classroom, which laid the foundations for growth. HMG have always been committed to supporting both me and my learning, allowing me to progress in my career, showing that HMG are a company that truly invests in its people.” Continuing with the theme of degree apprenticeships, another example can be seen through HMG’s Product Manager Shannon Williams, who has progressed into her role following the completion of a Degree Apprenticeship. "The Degree Apprenticeship helped to develop my skills and knowledge of business through a wide range of subjects and management processes. These skills have helped with my new role as Product Manager, and HMG provided me with the support and time needed throughout to enable me to complete the degree.” “The apprenticeship helped me gain a range of new skills have made a tangible impact on the business. My career journey from Print Room Assistant to Product Manager is a story of success enabled by apprenticeships. It is a demonstration on how the program has allowed me to step into a leadership role with the exact expertise our team needed to grow." The business also continues to support many of their current apprentices that work across multiple departments within the business. One such example is HMG’s Marketing Executive Apprentice Joshua Hibbert, who is currently gaining hands-on-experience across a wide range of marketing activities at HMG through his apprenticeship program. “The chance to gain experience through a marketing-focused apprenticeship at HMG has been great. This role has helped to provide me with valuable insight into both the technical and creative sides of marketing in the manufacturing sector” said Josh, speaking on his apprenticeship. “The guidance I have received from the team at HMG has also played a key role in my development, giving me the confidence to take on new challenges within my field and continue to grow in a fast-paced, manufacturing-led environment.” HMG Paints has also seen a number of employees recently complete their apprenticeship programmes and progress into more advanced roles. One example of this is Lewis Whalen, who has completed his CIMA Level 7 Professional Accounting Technician qualification. “My apprenticeship has played a key role in developing me as an accountant by allowing me to combine practical, hands-on experience with structured learning” said Lewis “My understanding of accounting principles has helped me advance in my career, creating new opportunities and greater responsibilities. “ In addition to apprenticeships, HMG has also continued to invest into T-Level programmes, recognising the importance in developing early technical capability and supporting progression into specialist roles within the business. One such instance is Luis Beaumont, who completed a Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship and was recently nominated for Apprentice of the Year at the 2025 British Coating Federation Awards. Speaking on his T-Level Apprenticeship, Luis commented: “My laboratory technician apprenticeship laid the foundation for my problem-solving skills and significantly boosted my confidence in working accurately and efficiently. It taught me discipline and a strong respect for quality standards, making the transition into a quality analyst role a natural progression.” This National Apprenticeship week, HMG is proud to be celebrating the various apprentices from across the business and highlighting the long-term value that is created through apprenticeship and training programs. From production and technical roles to office-based roles, apprentices and trainees continue to play a key role into the ongoing success of HMG Paints. You can see more about HMG and their apprentices during National Apprenticeship Week on HMG’s social media channels including Linkedin  and  Instagram If you require further information on the press release, please contact: Josh Hibbert HMG Paints   / marketing@hmgpaint.com

Property finance lender MSP Capital has welcomed industry expert Ben Arnold as Director of Property Services, the latest move in a £750 million loan book strategy. Ben brings more than 25 years’ experience across residential and commercial property, valuation, development land and planning throughout the south of England. After qualifying as a chartered surveyor in 2005, he joined Savills, progressing to the role of Development Director and head of its south coast valuation team, advising on residential-led development and valuation projects. In 2017, he took up the role of Land and Planning Director at Hampshire and Dorset housebuilder Pennyfarthing Homes. During eight years there, Ben was responsible for the acquisition and promotion of more than 3,000 strategic land plots. He secured planning approvals for 1,885 new homes, including 650 affordable dwellings, and led the delivery of UK’s first strategic phosphate mitigation scheme. On his move to MSP Capital, Ben said: “I’ll be utilising my past experiences in a range of property roles to lead and support the team and our customers to help deliver their projects to a successful conclusion.” Welcoming Ben, MSP Capital’s CEO Leigh Bartlett said: “A highly experienced property professional, Ben brings extensive knowledge in development, planning and valuation. His skills and insight will help strengthen our relationship-led lending and the benefits we bring to our clients through robust, flexible lending solutions.” Ben’s appointment follows MSP Capital’s launch of a package of lower rates on both development and bridging loans enabled by a landmark £350 million in new funding lines. The facility, involving investment partners J.P. Morgan and Pollen Street Capital, is designed to strengthen scope for a loan book worth £750 million or more over the next five years.

Hendy Foundation, the charitable organisation affiliated with the family-run Hendy car dealer network, has expanded its Board of Trustees, welcoming new members to maximise its fundraising efforts in support of local projects, people, events and charitable organisations. The new trustees bring a wide range of expertise, strengthening the Board in areas including business partnerships, charity engagement, communications, finance and fundraising. Following its latest round of funding in late 2025, the Foundation awarded grants totalling more than £61,000 to support over 50 non-profit organisations. With a fundraising target of £90,000 set for 2026, achieving this goal would take the total amount donated by the Foundation since its launch in 2018 to more than £500,000. Joining the Board as Business Relationship Trustee is Simon Palmer, who worked at Hendy Group for over 40 years before retiring in 2025. Simon will focus on developing and maintaining business and supplier partnership fundraising. He is joined in this role by Kayleigh Smith, Group Procurement Manager at Hendy Group, who will work alongside Simon to oversee these business fundraising initiatives. Kevin Fisher, Process Engagement Lead at Hendy Group, has been appointed Charity Relationship Trustee and will support ongoing relationships with charities that have received grant funding from the Foundation. Claire Bradley has also been appointed Charity Relationship Trustee, working alongside Kevin Fisher. Claire works within Hendy Group as a Talent and Resourcing Partner. Ruby Barrett joins the Board as Social Media Trustee, supporting the promotion of the Foundation’s work to colleagues, customers and business partners. From January 2026, Tim Porter, who has been recruited externally, has taken on the role of Finance Support Trustee, assisting the Treasurer with due diligence and financial oversight. Lucy Thornton joins as a General Trustee, bringing experience in events and fundraising from her existing charitable experience, whilst working within Hendy Group as Group Reward and Payroll Manager. Rebecca Hendy, one of the founding trustees, will continue as Chairperson of Hendy Foundation, retaining responsibility for the Foundation’s leadership and strategic direction. Christine Drew remains Treasurer and enters her fifth year in the role, continuing to oversee financial governance and stewardship. Mike Weatherston has been appointed Vice Chairperson and Colleague Relationship Trustee. Having previously served as a trustee with a general remit, Mike now holds a defined role focused on colleague engagement across the Hendy Group. Rebecca Hendy, Chairperson of Hendy Foundation, said: “The appointment of new trustees strengthens the Board, bringing invaluable skills and experience. The refreshed team will support our ambition to grow the Foundation’s reach and ensure we can continue to make a meaningful difference." "With our new Board in place, we have set ourselves an ambitious fundraising target of £90,000 in 2026, which would mean we will have raised over half a million pounds and supported more than 400 local charities and community projects since 2018.” For more information, visit here .