Ridgeview Wine Estate has appointed Dan Simmons as Sales Director as the Sussex producer accelerates growth across retail and hospitality, and at its home in the South Downs, where visitor numbers rose 23 per cent year-on-year over the summer. One of the pioneers of English sparkling wine, Ridgeview is building on more than three decades of winemaking with a sharper commercial focus, a growing market presence and sustained investment in the experience at the estate. Matt Gayler, Chief Operating Officer at Ridgeview, said: “We are building quickly, which is testament to the team. Ridgeview has thirty years behind it, exceptional wines and world-class facilities here in Sussex, and our commitment to quality keeps the wines at the forefront of everything we do." "Our job now is to put those wines in front of a great many more people, in the bars and restaurants where they are already earning their place, and here at the estate where they are made. That is where all the energy is going. There is a lot happening across the business, from growing UK distribution to real investment in the experience here in Sussex. We are proud of where we are today and we are incredibly excited for the future.” Strengthening the commercial team Dan Simmons joined Ridgeview as Sales Director on 24 August, bringing extensive drinks industry experience from global spirits companies Bacardi and Brown-Forman and most recently, luxury tea brand JING Tea. His appointment comes as Ridgeview expands its presence across retail and hospitality and deepens its commercial partnerships, with a focus on making its wines more available to consumers while building long-term value for the brand. Dan Simmons, UK Sales Director at Ridgeview, said: “Having lived most of my life in Sussex, I’ve always been an advocate of Ridgeview and have watched the brand build an outstanding reputation for quality while playing such an important role in the story of English sparkling wine." "The category has real momentum, and Ridgeview is exceptionally well placed to capitalise on this across every channel. I’m looking forward to bringing my experience of building premium brands and strong customer partnerships to support the next stage of Ridgeview’s growth.” More than the bottle Alongside distribution growth, Ridgeview is investing in the experience that surrounds its wines. At its home in the South Downs, the estate continues to develop its Cellar Door, Rows & Vine restaurant, tours, tastings and events programme, creating more reasons for visitors to experience Ridgeview in the place where its wines are made. That investment is translating into measurable growth. Recorded visits across Ridgeview’s hospitality experiences rose 23 per cent year-on-year during the summer peak in July and August. Private tours and group experiences have grown particularly strongly, with attendance up 68 per cent between April and August compared with the same period in 2025, while visits to Rows & Vine, the estate’s restaurant, increased by 11 per cent. The figures reflect a growing appetite to experience Ridgeview beyond the bottle, as the estate develops as a destination for English wine, food and hospitality. It is an ambition that runs alongside the winemaking itself: to build on a reputation for exceptional traditional-method English sparkling wine while creating a distinctive English brand centred on bringing people together. Thirty years of winemaking At the heart of that growth is the wine. Led by Head Winemaker Simon Roberts, named IWSC International Winemaker of the Year in 2018 and the first English producer to take the title, Ridgeview continues the approach to quality established by the Roberts family when the estate was founded in 1995. Simon Roberts, Head Winemaker at Ridgeview, said: “The wines we are making now are some of the best we have ever made, and I am as excited in our next harvest, our 31st, as I was in the first. 2026 will be another exceptional vintage for Southern England, and we look forward to continuing our tradition of producing the highest quality sparkling wine.”

To mark the 130th anniversary of one of Robinsons Brewery's longest-standing and most iconic beers, Unicorn, formerly known as Unicorn Best Bitter, will be available for just £1.30 in more than 170 Robinsons pubs across the North West and North Wales on Saturday 26th September, while stocks last. Brewing in the heart of Stockport since 1838, Robinsons has built a reputation for producing quality cask ales, with Unicorn remaining at the heart of its brewing heritage. First brewed in September 1896, the beer has become a firm favourite among generations of drinkers and remains still one of the brewery's most popular pints. What makes Unicorn really special is its recipe, that has remained unchanged for well over a century, preserving the character and quality that have made it a staple of pubs across Stockport and beyond. September will be a month of celebration for the family brewer, with the anniversary offering beer lovers the chance to enjoy a pint of Unicorn for just £1.30. Robinsons will also be hosting a competition for 13 lucky winners to win limited-edition Stockport County football shirts from 1996-1997. Head Brewer at Robinsons Brewery commented: "Unicorn has been part of Robinsons’ story for over a century, enjoyed by generations of loyal customers in Stockport and far beyond. As we celebrate 130 years of this iconic British cask beer on Cask Ale Week, we wanted to invite our customers to join us for a £1.30 pint on the 26th September.” So, whether you are a big Unicorn fan, love cask ale or want to try it for the first time, visit a participating Robinsons pub to claim your £1.30 pint on Saturday 26th September while stocks last. Don’t forget to follow Robinsons on social media for your chance to win a Stockport County shirt. Find a pub offering £1.30 pints here. Link to Robinsons Instagram here.

The Black Talent Awards (BTA) has unveiled its 2026 finalists – all 45 of them - as the national platform prepares to mark its fifth anniversary of recognising Black professional achievement, leadership, entrepreneurship and impact across the UK. Since its launch, over 95 individuals have been recognised. Since its launch, the Black Talent Awards has recognised 95 winners across its programme. This year, more than 300 nominations were considered by an independent judging panel of 31 senior leaders drawn from sectors including law, technology, media, education and healthcare. The judging process also included 10 youth judges as part of BTA’s commitment to developing the next generation of leaders and bringing an intergenerational perspective to the Awards. The 2026 shortlist spans 15 categories, recognising professionals, entrepreneurs, employee networks and organisations working across industries including finance, STEM, education, professional services, media, public services, retail and social impact. The winners will be announced at the black-tie Chapter Five ceremony at Edgbaston Stadium, Birmingham, on 2 October 2026. Five years of recognising Black talent What began as a grassroots initiative in Birmingham has developed into a national platform celebrating Black achievement across sectors, career stages and communities. The fifth anniversary provides an opportunity to recognise not only this year’s finalists, but the 95 individuals and organisations who have previously taken home a BTA award and the wider community that has developed around the Awards. For the BTAs, the milestone represents the continued importance of creating visibility for Black professionals and providing a national platform where achievement can be recognised and celebrated. Birmingham remains at the heart of that journey. Returning to Edgbaston Stadium for its fifth anniversary, the BTA reinforces Birmingham’s role as an important centre for Black talent, entrepreneurship, leadership and community. A growing national coalition The 2026 Awards are supported by organisations spanning banking, education, technology, automotive, entertainment, media and professional services. Birmingham City University is headline sponsor, with Lloyds Banking Group as Gold Sponsor; Vision for All and FD2i as Bronze Sponsors; and AXIOM JV as Media Room Sponsor. The Awards are further supported by Barclays Eagle Labs, Jaguar Land Rover, Merlin Entertainments, Purple Squared AV and Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, bringing together a coalition of national and regional organisations reflecting the breadth of industries now investing in Black talent across the UK. Professor David Mba, Vice-Chancellor, Birmingham City University - and headline sponsor added: “Birmingham City University is proud to be the headline sponsor of this year’s Black Talent Awards. Being rooted in one of the UK’s most diverse cities means, we create opportunities for people from all backgrounds to succeed." "At BCU, our mission is to create and share knowledge for a better and more inclusive society. We are delighted to stand alongside the Black Talent Awards in celebrating those who are breaking barriers, creating change and inspiring others. We look forward to celebrating their achievements together.” Tim Campbell returns as BTA Ambassador Entrepreneur, adviser and BBC’s original The Apprentice winner Tim Campbell MBE returns as official BTA Ambassador for 2026. His continued involvement reflects the Awards’ commitment to placing experienced and successful Black professionals at the heart of a platform designed to celebrate achievement and inspire future generations. Denise Myers, Founder of the Black Talent Awards, said: “Chapter Five of the Black Talent Awards is about much more than reaching a five-year milestone. It is about recognising what happens when Black talent is seen, celebrated and given a platform." “BTA started as a grassroots initiative in Birmingham and has grown into a national stage for professionals, entrepreneurs and organisations making a real difference across the UK. To have recognised 95 winners over those five years is something I am incredibly proud of." “This year’s finalists represent the breadth of that journey. They are working in boardrooms, classrooms, businesses, communities and organisations across the country, demonstrating that Black excellence is not confined to one postcode.” Finalists for the Black Talent Awards 2026 This year's finalists span 15 categories and represent employees, entrepreneurs, and organisations at every career stage: Charity & Change Employee of the Year Bob Clarke — MAMA Youth Project Leila Thomas — Urban Synergy Youth Empowerment & Social Mobility Charity Sarah Chitongo — Black Blossom Alliance CIC Public Sector & Services Employee of the Year Gianina Harvey-Brewin — University of Roehampton Mark Corbin — West Midlands Combined Authority (Transport for West Midlands) Sandra Simpson — Coventry City Council and West Midlands Associate Directors for Adult Social Care Marketing, Media & Creative Employee of the Year Joelle Owusu-Sekyere — Penguin Random House Lee Dasilva — TUI Myvanwy Evans-Davis — Louder Than Words ERG (Employee Resource Group) of the Year Barclays Bank UK PLC Microsoft UK&I TUI UK&I Retail, Leisure & Supply Chain Employee of the Year Alisha Cohen — McDonald's Andrew Kyte — TUI Marcus Hunter — Dunelm Plc Rickey Devonish — JD Sports Group Rising Star of the Year Jenny Daniel — UKRI Jessica-Mary Onuoha — Anglia Ruskin University Nadia Kanyike — Amentum UK & International Professional Services Employee of the Year Dr Chris C Aniche PhD — Curling Moore Solicitors & Advocates Emma Osman — Google Cloud Kizzy Augustin — Mishcon de Reya Small Business of the Year Creative Rhino Mahogany Inclusion Partners Sandwell African Caribbean Mental Health Foundation People & Culture Employee of the Year Mabinty Esho — Comic Relief Professor Amos Fatokun — Liverpool John Moores University, UK Tiger de Souza — Macmillan Senior Leader of the Year Dr MaryAnn Ferreux — Health Innovation Kent Surrey Sussex Kizzy Augustin — Mishcon De Reya Tunji Akintokun — Pathos Communications plc Entrepreneur of the Year Aggie Yemurai Mutuma — Mahogany Inclusion Partners Carla Willis-Brown — Syncdin Simone Bell — Simone Bell Counselling Excellence in Education DGCL Digital Cloud Academy SEN Bytes The Open University Social Impact Organisation of the Year Black British Initiative (BBI) VISION FOR ALL CIC Walsall Black Sisters Collective STEM Employee of the Year Chinyere Simon — Deloitte Kelvin Ibrahim — Citibank United Kingdom Kwadwo Benko — Microsoft Financial Services Employee of the Year Alexander Matambo — Bloomberg Carleen Dussard — Barclays Bank PLC France-Lise Nsimba-Lay — Coutts There will also be a Special Recognition Award and Trailblazer Award, which will both be announced on the night. Find our more about the awards here.

Noble Foods, the UK’s leading egg producer, has unveiled Kudos, a new consumer food-to-go brand designed to meet growing demand for nutritious, convenient and great-tasting snacks. Launching in Sainsbury’s stores from 1st September, the initial Kudos range will include Feta & Tomato Egg Bites, available in 410 stores, and Shakshuka Saucy Egg Pots, available in 423 stores. Both products will be available as meal deal snack options, helping introduce the brand to shoppers looking for convenient and protein-rich food-to-go choices. The new brand marks another major milestone in Noble Foods’ continued investment in value-added foods from its Leicester-based Innovation Hub, which has doubled in capacity since 2025. While Kudos launches initially within the food-to-go category, the brand has been created with long-term growth in mind, and with ambitions to expand into additional food-to-go and chilled categories in the future. Developed over 18 months and shaped by extensive consumer research, Kudos has been built around a simple proposition to deliver “rewarding nutrition” through delicious, convenient food made with quality ingredients. At its heart are free-range British eggs, with products that are high in protein and designed for modern lifestyles. The initial launch products include Kudos Egg Bites with Feta & Tomato and Kudos Saucy Egg Pots, with Shakshuka flavour. Additional variants, including Ham Hock and Jalapeño Chilli Egg Bites, alongside Mexican Bean and Chickpea Masala Saucy Egg Pots, are planned for future rollout. Designed for today’s increasingly flexible eating habits, the products combine free-range British eggs with globally inspired flavours, offering consumers a fresh alternative within the growing food-to-go market. The launch comes as the UK retail food-to-go category continues to grow, now worth £4.8 billion and increasing by 5.4% year-on-year [1]as consumers seek more convenient, nutritious eating options. Research conducted during the development of Kudos identified a clear opportunity for innovation within egg-based snacking. While 91% of consumers view eggs as a healthy source of protein, 55% said they wanted greater variety in egg snacks and 50% were looking for more flavour choice. The findings reinforced the opportunity for Noble Foods to create a modern brand that better reflects changing consumer expectations and eating habits. As one of nature’s most versatile foods, eggs are uniquely positioned to meet these changing needs. Despite strong consumer recognition of their nutritional credentials, egg-based products remain relatively underrepresented within modern food-to-go fixtures. Kudos has been developed to help bridge that gap. For Noble Foods, the launch represents a strategic investment in creating additional demand for British eggs by expanding their role across new food-to-go and snacking occasions. By introducing eggs into new eating moments, including snacking, lunch and food-to-go, the business aims to unlock new sources of demand while showcasing the versatility of eggs beyond traditional formats. The result is a bold, modern brand identity designed to stand out in a crowded category. Featuring vibrant blue and yellow branding, positive messaging and an upbeat, honest tone of voice, Kudos has been created for consumers seeking balance rather than perfection, helping make everyday food choices feel accessible, enjoyable and achievable. James Howes, Category & Brand Marketing Manager at Noble Foods said: “Kudos represents a significant investment for Noble Foods and an exciting new chapter for eggs as healthier, convenient options in different categories.” “Consumers are increasingly looking for healthier food that fits around real life, delivering on taste, convenience and positive nutrition without feeling restrictive or bland. Through Kudos, we’ve brought together free-range British eggs and bold flavours in products that offer rewarding nutrition and fit easily into busy lifestyles." "Just as importantly, Kudos creates new opportunities to introduce eggs into new eating occasions, drive demand for British egg production and demonstrate the versatility of eggs beyond traditional formats.” [1] Source: Kantar’s ‘Who-cares-who-does-2024’ report – Global

Expanding car parks operator Apex Parking has doubled the size of its portfolio by acquiring 10 new properties. The company has also rapidly grown its workforce with its headcount now standing at 44 after transferring in 21 staff from a previous operator in one day. Apex Parking‘s newest locations are Pall Mall, Moorfields and Rumford Street in Liverpool, Chorlton Street in Manchester, The Core in Leeds, New Street, Royal Angus, Londonderry and Horsefair in Birmingham and High Street in Weston-super-Mare. The company, which was founded in 2021, already operated 10 car parks in London, Liverpool, Manchester, Chester, Bristol, Stoke, Ipswich and Hounslow. The new acquisitions came about after National Car Parks (NCP), which was founded in 1931 and with a portfolio of 340 UK car parks, went into administration in March. Landowner GreenPoint, a global real assets investment firm with more than $1 billion of equity under management, decided to move away from NCP and the administration process and find new operators for their 32 sites. Working through their pan-European business management company partner Lysara, GreenPoint decided to split its portfolio between Apex Parking, which already ran three sites for them, and another operator. Director Ben Sullivan said: “We are particularly pleased to have been chosen as the as preferred management partner for these 10 car parks by GreenPoint." “We believe their decision was very much influenced by the work we have done to turn around the existing three sites but also for the significant commercial support and insight we gave them post-NCP’s administration announcement." “This expansion is another significant step in our journey and reflects the confidence our clients continue to place in our team. Strategically it has worked out very well for us, geographically complementing our existing sites and allowing us to both expand and move forward rapidly through economies of scale." “We will be upgrading the car parks to the most modern standards, making the lighting better, changing bay markings, improving and reducing signage, increasing safety aspects and dealing with anti-social behaviour." “The installation of new equipment, supplied by APT Skidata, is making the act of parking simpler and more pleasant – and we offer competitive prices, with discounts for subscribers and season tickets and also reward schemes." “We would like to reassure drivers by pointing out that we will be honouring season tickets previously bought through NCP for our 10 new car parks, even though we are not obliged to do so by law and most likely will not be receiving any of those funds." “As a responsible employer we are also dedicated to improving the facilities for our dedicated and hard-working staff. They are the face of our business, the people interacting with our customers and dealing with any issues.” “Working with a landlord who understands our vision in terms of putting staff back into car parks is so refreshing, as is the appreciation that we need to invest to build a decent, sustainable business and it is the long-term revenues we are looking at, not making a quick buck and disappearing.” Scott Parsons, chief executive of Lysara, said: “Over the past few months, the team has worked at pace to transition 30 assets into a stronger operating structure, securing long-term income with Q-Park across 20 sites and retaining attractive operational upside across a further 10 sites with Apex." “This is an important milestone for Lysara. The new arrangements strengthen the quality and resilience of the portfolio, refocus on the customer experience and preserve our flexibility to integrate new services, including EV charging, overtime.” Apex Parking, founded in 2021, operates 20 car parks across England, including London, Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, Chester, Bristol and Birmingham. Visit here for more details with Apex Parking. Photo: Car park operator Apex Parking directors, from left, Iain Selbie, Guy Watson and Ben Sullivan have overseen a doubling of the size of the company with the acquisition of 10 new properties across the country

Property consultancy Vail Williams has made a strategic appoint in its Thames Valley Valuation team as business continues to grow. Luke Kemp, who has joined at partner level from Daniel Watney Partnership in London, has also worked at Savills, Knight Frank, BNP Paribas Real Estate and Cushman & Wakefield. He is based in Reading and Oxford where he provides property valuation advice to clients across the firm-s Western Corridor – Reading, Oxford and the wider Thames Valley, as well as nationally. A RICS Registered Valuer with more than 20 years’ post-qualification experience, he advises a wide range of clients, including fund managers, banks and other lending institutions, investors, developers and property owners. Luke has extensive experience in commercial property valuation, residential property valuation, portfolio valuations and development appraisals. He provides valuations for a variety of purposes, including secured lending, financial reporting and accounting, pension planning, and tax planning including Capital Gains Tax. Drawing on his knowledge of the Thames Valley property market and wider regional and national market trends, Luke provides clients with robust, commercially focused valuation advice to support property, investment and lending decisions. Luke also has particular expertise in the purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) sector. Having specialised in student property valuation from 2013, he has advised on the valuation of major student accommodation portfolios for clients including Scape Student Living, The Mansion Student Accommodation Fund, the BlackRock Student Housing Trust and Unite. Before specialising in PBSA, Luke worked as an investment portfolio valuer, overseeing the valuation of billions of pounds of property assets on a monthly, quarterly and annual basis. More recently, his work has included valuations of mainstream commercial property, including London landed estates for accounting purposes, as well as office and retail properties for pension planning, tax planning and Capital Gains Tax purposes. Luke said: “I am excited to have joined such a forward-thinking firm as Vail Williams where the business ethos matches mine completely." “I hope that my skill sets will enable me to play a big role in the ambitious growth programme set for this progressive, professional and exceptional firm.” Thames Valley regional managing partner David Barden said: “We welcome Luke as someone whose broad valuation experience, combined with his understanding of the Thames Valley property market, enables him to advise on individual properties, development opportunities and complex property portfolios across a range of sectors." “He has hit the ground running and has already become an integral part of the team. We have high expectations of him, particularly around the student accommodation sector, which, obviously is particularly important in Oxford and Reading which both have huge student populations.” Vail Williams’ full-service property advice includes commercial agency, investment and development advice, building consultancy, property valuation, planning, lease advisory, property asset management, business rates and occupier consultancy. Photo: Strategic Appointment: Luke Kemp, second left, who has been appointed at partner level in the Valuation team at property consultancy Vail Williams in the Thames Valley region, is pictured with colleagues, from left, associates David Grove and Laura Tidder, and Thames Valley regional managing partner David Barden

Step inside The New Inn in Tywardreath and it quickly becomes clear this is no ordinary village pub. From the unusually low bar built with Cornwall's miners in mind, to the faded photographs on the walls and the giant Cornish flag hanging across an entire wall, stepping inside The New Inn feels a little like walking into a mini-museum. The 17th-century pub has quietly earned national acclaim, having been named among The Telegraph's best pubs in the UK for two years running. It's also hosted a then little-known Sam Fender long before he was selling out stadiums. For the business partners who run the St Austell Brewery pub - brothers Christian and Stephen Hanks - that's all part of the charm. "This isn't really a destination that shouts about itself," said Christian. "People come in and discover something they weren't expecting." "You've always got people noticing something new. There are hundreds of years of history in this building, from the walls themselves to the old beer bottles lining the ceiling shelves. Despite the years passing, locals still occasionally arrive at the pub carrying bottles they have discovered in sheds, lofts or garages, adding them to the growing collection displayed around the bar. It's become a bit of a tradition." One of the most notable features in the pub is the bar itself. At first glance it looks unusually low - and for a bar it is. Tywardreath was once a thriving mining community. Local miners would head to the pub after spending long days underground, with the low bar making it easier for them to lean against after hours spent crouched down. Still embedded in the wood of the bar are two brass slots, remnants of a time when miners were paid with tokens that could be exchanged locally for food and drink. "It's one of those little pieces of history that's still here," said Christian. "You can actually see how the village's past is tied into the pub." There are old photographs showing Tywardreath in years gone by, including one of a butcher standing outside the pub with his horse and cart. Another image draws plenty of attention from visitors, showing a child in the pub's doorway with what appears to be a ghostly figure looming behind them. The pub's striking Cornish identity was also singled out by The Telegraph, which highlighted the enormous Cornish flag that dominates one wall. The flag has a story of its own. It was found and embroidered by Stephen and Christian's sister before being given pride of place inside the pub. While history gives The New Inn its character, music has helped shape its more recent story. Tucked just off the main bar is a room that serves as both a dining space and live music venue, hosting regular gigs throughout the year. Over time it has welcomed countless musicians, including one who would go on to become one of Britain's biggest stars. Before selling out arenas and headlining festivals, Sam Fender played a gig at The New Inn. That commitment continues today, with live music at the pub taking place at least once a month. Outside, the pub opens into unexpectedly large gardens. A stretch tent and outdoor bar provide the setting for summer events, live music and community gatherings. Recently, the pub hosted a firewalk, with participants walking barefoot across hot coals. For Christian, who grew up in nearby Fowey with his family, pubs have been part of life for as long as he can remember. He started out washing pots in a local pub at just 14 years old. Although he later earned a degree in mining engineering, life eventually led him back behind the bar. After spending time working in hospitality in London, he returned home to Cornwall and now runs both The New Inn and The Lugger Inn in Fowey with Stephen, employing more than 30 people across the two St Austell Brewery owned pubs. "People sometimes think hospitality is a temporary job, but it's a career I've spent most of my working life in pubs and I've never really looked back." Despite the national accolades, the growing reputation and the famous former performers, Christian believes The New Inn's greatest strength remains remarkably simple. "It's the people. You might put on a gig, a charity event or it's a normal Friday night, and when the pub is busy and everyone is happy, that's the best feeling." The New Inn is just one of 120 leased and tenanted pubs in St Austell Brewery's pub estate, run by independent business partners. Those interested in running their own pub, with the backing of one of the region's most established hospitality companies, which is celebrating its 175th anniversary this year, can find out more here. Photo: Christian Hanks behind the bar at The New Inn

Independent family brewer Shepherd Neame is getting in the mood for autumn as its popular seasonal cask ales, Late Red and Hop Pocket, return to pubs this month – and they have a refreshing new look too. The pump clip for Late Red (4.5% ABV) - a favourite among ale-drinkers - has been redesigned with a more modern look and feel. Taking inspiration from the much-loved original, the new design has been reimagined to balance a contemporary feel with the Brewery’s heritage. The limited-edition Hop Pocket (4.5% ABV) has also been updated with a bold new design that captures the vibrancy, freshness and seasonal character of a green hop ale. Late Red, a crimson-copper ale typically available from September to November, blends pale ale malt and gently kilned crystal malt with UK Cascade and Goldings hops, resulting in the perfect balance between rich, dark malt flavours and a citrussy hop finish. This seasonal ale is triple-hopped to enhance its taste and aroma - twice in the brewhouse with Goldings and Cascade before being dry hopped with Cascade – to produce a complex and full-flavoured beer with hints of toffee, tropical fruit and a peppery finish. Shepherd Neame is also pleased to announce the return of Hop Pocket, a green hop ale brewed specially to coincide with the Faversham Hop Festival, a two-day celebration of Kent’s hop-picking heritage with live music and family entertainment in the Brewery’s hometown. Beer is usually brewed with dried hops, but green hop ales are made using fresh green hops which go from bine to beer in a matter of hours. Packed with freshly picked Kentish hops from Parsonage Farm in Boughton-Under-Blean, just a few miles from the Brewery, this fragrant golden ale boasts a truly unique flavour. Head of Brands Rose Davis said: “We are excited to bring back two of our popular seasonal ales. Late Red has been a firm favourite for many years, and we hope customers will enjoy this special ruby ale as autumn approaches." “We are also blessed to be in the heart of England’s hop county here in Kent, so it’s a fantastic opportunity to make the most of our local farms and produce Hop Pocket, a green ale that goes from garden to brewhouse in less than half a day." “I am sure that festival-goers will enjoy both of these limited-edition brews at this year’s Hop Festival!” Both ales are now available in selected Shepherd Neame pubs across Kent, London and the South East. The beers will also be available at the Hop Festival, sponsored by Shepherd Neame, which takes places in Faversham on Saturday, September 5 and Sunday, September 6. To find a Shepherd Neame pub near you, visit here. Customers are advised to call ahead to confirm availability.

Emil Riis has become the latest addition to Leicester City’s attacking ranks after completing a move from Sky Bet Championship side Bristol City, subject to league approval. The 28-year-old Danish forward links up with our Men’s First Team for the 2026/27 campaign, bringing a wealth of Championship experience following spells with the Robins and Preston North End. He has signed a four-year contract and adds further options to Russell Martin’s squad, with Emil having finished his first season at Ashton Gate as the club’s leading scorer, netting 12 times across all competitions. Speaking to LCFC.com, Emil said: “I’m really excited and can’t wait to get going. I think this will be great for me, and I’m looking forward to playing in front of the fans and hopefully scoring goals. It’s a massive club with a very exciting project." “I've played a lot of games in England so I hope I can bring experience to the team. I want to help the young lads we have and push them in the right direction.” A former Denmark youth international, Emil developed in Randers’ academy before joining Derby County in 2015. He gained his first experience of senior football during a loan spell with Dutch side VVV-Venlo before returning to Randers in 2018. He established himself in the Danish Superliga ahead of a move to Preston North End in October 2020, going on to score 46 goals in 186 appearances during five seasons at Deepdale. A move to Bristol City followed in the summer of 2025, where he continued to add to his experience in the second tier and collected the club’s Golden Boot award at the end of the campaign. On the international stage, Emil has represented Denmark at several youth levels, including Under-21s.

Perfectionistic behaviour from team leaders can have consequences far beyond the workplace, increasing employees’ work–family conflict and making them more likely to work while ill, according to a new study. The study examined the effects of leaders’ other-oriented perfectionism, a tendency to impose unrealistically high standards on others and criticise shortcomings. The findings suggest that when employees perceive their team leader as perfectionistic, they are more likely to experience conflict between their work and family lives. That strain, in turn, is associated with higher levels of presenteeism, where employees continue working despite being unwell. Dr Rahul Goel, Senior Lecturer in Organisational Behaviour and Human Resource Management at Sheffield Hallam University and lead author of the research, said: "We were interested in understanding what happens when perfectionism is directed towards others, particularly when it comes from people in positions of leadership. Because perfectionism is often seen as positive, our findings highlight that leader driven perfectionistic expectations can harm wellbeing and life outside work." "Organisations should therefore reconsider which leadership behaviours and norms they promote, rather than assuming higher standards always improve outcomes. I hope this research encourages organisations and leaders to reflect on how expectations are communicated and the potential consequences of creating an environment where leaders expect perfection from employees.” The paper, "The perfect storm: How leader perfectionism fuels employee work–family conflict and presenteeism," published in Work & Stress, brings together academics from Sheffield Business School at Sheffield Hallam University, University of East Anglia (UEA) and the University of Liverpool. Prof Ana Sanz Vergel, Professor of Work Psychology, in UEA’s Norwich Business School, said: "This study reveals the powerful influence of leadership and the blurred boundary between work and home. Leaders' perfectionistic expectations spill over into employees' home lives, making it harder for them to cope with family demands. And the consequences are substantial: conflict between the work and family domains depletes employees' energy to the point that they lack the resources to engage in health-protective coping strategies." "Instead, they may turn to what appears to be the easier option but is ultimately a harmful one. We need to challenge the notion that presenteeism is the answer." The study explains how demanding leadership behaviour can drain employees’ time, energy and emotional resources. The pressure to meet high standards at work may leave employees with less capacity for family responsibilities, increasing stress across both domains. The study also suggests that presenteeism should be understood not just as an individual choice, but as a behavioural response that can emerge when employees are under sustained strain. The research, based on a survey of 483 employees across 102 teams in UK universities and colleges, was conducted using a longitudinal design over six months, with data collected at three points in time. It adds to growing evidence that leadership styles can influence employees’ wellbeing in ways that extend beyond the office or campus.

People across Glasgow living with trauma, poor mental health, and the effects of addiction and social isolation will have the chance to spend time in nature and form meaningful connections thanks to the work done by Fire & Peace. The charity supports people facing complex life challenges by creating safe, supportive spaces in natural environments. Fire & Peace’s unique approach uses nature, fire and shared outdoor experiences to help people reconnect with themselves, others and the world around them. Participants come together for activities including outdoor cooking, fire lighting, shelter building and guided reflection. These are designed with the aim of encouraging trust in each other, and building a sense of belonging and personal growth. The charity’s wellbeing day trips form part of Fire & Peace’s wider work across its Youth Movement, Women's Empowerment Movement and Young Asylum Seeker Project. They offer a welcome break from life’s daily pressures, allowing participants to slow down and spend time outdoors engaging with peers in a calm, non-judgemental environment. Ksenia Milek, Charity Officer at Fire & Peace, said: "Around the fire, people are not defined by what they have been through. They are welcomed, listened to and reminded of their own strength. Trips may each last only a day, but the confidence, friendships and sense of belonging created can stay with participants long after they return home." The programme has been given a boost thanks to a £1,200 donation from the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust, which will fund two fully supported outdoor wellbeing day trips. Thanking the Trust for the funding Ksenia added: "A Fire & Peace day trip is far more than a few hours outdoors. For someone carrying trauma, struggling with their mental health, living with addiction or feeling completely isolated, it can be the first time in a long while that they have felt safe, included and able to breathe." "The £1,200 awarded by Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust will enable us to provide two fully supported outdoor wellbeing day trips across our projects. It will help cover transport, food, equipment and the practical resources needed to ensure that financial circumstances are never a barrier to taking part." David Facenna, Corporate Culture Director at Allied Vehicles, said: "Fire & Peace is doing brilliant work to support people facing some of life's toughest challenges. These outdoor wellbeing trips offer a safe space where people experience the positive impact that nature can have on our wellbeing." "We are proud that the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust can help make them accessible to more people across the community." By helping remove financial barriers to participation, the funding will ensure more people can access supportive outdoor experiences that foster connection and improve wellbeing.

Padel players can now take to the court at Crieff Hydro as the Perthshire resort officially opens its brand-new Padel Barn. The new facility features three purpose-built indoor courts and is now welcoming hotel guests, Country Club members, local residents and day visitors from 7am until 10pm daily. Padel Barn brings one of the world’s fastest-growing sports to Crieff, with the indoor setting allowing players to enjoy a game whatever the Scottish weather has in store. Games can be booked for either 60 or 90 minutes, with up to four players per court. Racquets are provided for players, while balls can be purchased from a vending machine within the Padel Barn. Bookings are available through the Playtomic app, allowing players to view availability and secure a court directly from their phone. Richard Leckie, associate director at Crieff Hydro, said: “We’re delighted to officially open Padel Barn and welcome our first players onto the courts. Padel is such a fun and sociable sport and one of the great things about it is how accessible it is." "You don’t need to be an experienced player to pick up a racquet and have a go, so we hope the courts will appeal just as much to people trying padel for the first time as those who already love the game." “Sport and activity have been part of Crieff Hydro for generations, so it feels fitting to create another way for guests, members and the local community to get active and spend time together.” The opening of Padel Barn marks the latest chapter in Crieff Hydro’s long-standing commitment to sport, movement and wellbeing. When Dr Thomas Henry Meikle founded the Strathearn Hydropathic Establishment in 1868, the resort was built around the belief that exercise, nature and fresh Perthshire air could restore the body and mind. That sporting tradition has continued throughout the generations, with Crieff Hydro’s tennis club established in 1913 and the resort today offering an extensive programme of indoor and outdoor activities. Padel combines elements of tennis and squash and is typically played in doubles on an enclosed court, where the surrounding walls form part of the game. Its accessible and highly social format has helped fuel its rapid rise in popularity across the UK and globally. Court hire at Padel Barn is priced at £40 per court per hour for Country Club members and £50 per court per hour for hotel guests and non-residents, with up to four players able to share each court. Free parking is available on site. For more information, visit here.