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Digger manufacturer JCB has donated £1,000 to help a community group stage a life-saving heart screening programme in memory of a mechanical engineer who died suddenly aged just 26. Formula One mechanical engineer, Anthony Lane, who grew up in Stubwood, near Denstone, close to the company’s World HQ in Rocester, died from an undiagnosed heart condition after collapsing while exercising at his home in Rugby in October 2022. Now special free screening days in Anthony’s memory are being organised by Uttoxeter Rotary Club in conjunction with the charity Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY) at Oldfields Hall Middle School, in Stone Road, Uttoxeter, on 6th and 7th June. Anthony’s parents Penny and Paul Lane, of Lichfield, have praised the initiative. Paul said: “Anthony was always such a fit and healthy young man, and his death came as a shock to all of us. We are delighted that Uttoxeter Rotary are arranging screening days in Anthony’s memory that could go on to help hundreds of young people in the area.” JCB has donated the £1,000 to Uttoxeter Rotary Club to support a campaign delivering two specialist screening days aimed at identifying young people aged 14 to 35 who may be at risk of undiagnosed heart conditions, including heart muscle disorders and electrical faults of the heart. Statistics show that every week in the UK, 12 apparently fit and healthy people under the age of 35 die from an undiagnosed heart condition, around 80% of whom show no prior symptoms. Jerry Gear, Past President of Uttoxeter Rotary Club, who is leading the campaign said: “These events can literally be life saving for young people as they have the potential to identify those young people who are walking around unaware of underlying health conditions." "Last year 15 young people were identified as needing further medical investigation. This is why we couldn’t be more grateful to businesses like JCB who continue to show their support each year. The whole process is very simple and takes just 15 minutes but really it is vital. I would encourage young people who haven’t been before to take advantage of the opportunity and book their free place.” Each screening session relies on £6,800 of funding per day and involves using a medical history questionnaire and electrocardiogram (ECG) to identify risks. Up to 100 young people a day will get free access to the scan with further tests and medical referrals provided if needed. Uttoxeter Rotary Club is working with local businesses like JCB to raise the funds to cover the costs of the two June screening days. They are looking for a further £6,000 to meet the target for the sessions and then hope to raise additional funds for further dates later in the year.

ProPharm Services, Scotland’s leading independent provider of pharmacy and prescribing support services, has expanded its service offering following support from Business Gateway East Renfrewshire. ProPharm was launched in 2018 by pharmacist, Sarah Cameron, with the aim of alleviating the pressures GPs face with workload challenges in primary care. Over the last seven years, the business has grown from a singular pharmacist service to a leading independent pharmacy service provider, employing 11 people, including eight independent prescribing pharmacists who have a primary focus on patient care. Sarah, who has 22 years of experience working in hospital, community and primary care pharmacy, works closely with fellow director, Patricia Davies, who joined the business in 2022 with over 20 years of pharmacy experience and a background in community and primary care. Sarah and Patricia share a passion for improving patient outcomes by helping people access NHS care in a timelier manner by enhancing pharmacy support services. The whole ProPharm team works to provide a range of clinical skills to support GP practices across Scotland, allowing pharmacists to undertake appropriate monitoring and assessment at the point of care, saving clinician time and enabling comprehensive reviews of treatment. Over the last few years, Sarah and Patricia have worked closely with Business Gateway East Renfrewshire, receiving support from adviser, Scott Arnot, who provided advice on funding, hiring and expansion, and management consultancy. The pair also received tailored advice through the East Renfrewshire Accelerator (ERA) programme, which is funded by East Renfrewshire Council. This allowed Sarah and Patricia to sharpen their financial sustainability and strategic focus for future growth. In addition, Business Gateway provided digital support to help assist with the initial development of the company’s online platforms. Since launching, ProPharm has gone from delivering a single weekly prescribing session for one GP practice to now supporting GP practices with 4,500 patient interventions each month across four Scottish health boards. In the last year, the business has expanded condition-specific clinics in asthma, diabetes and cardiovascular care, and led medication safety initiatives focusing on higher-risk medicines. The business is now beginning to partner with pharmaceutical companies and projects that bring evidence-based treatments and services that will make a positive impact on communities across Scotland. ProPharm recently won two awards, Best Performing Business and Employer Excellence in Wellbeing, at the 2025 East Renfrewshire Business Awards, further strengthening its reputation as a leader in both industry performance and employee care. The business has also been recognised in the Business Women Top 100 list and were finalists in the 2024 Scottish Healthcare Awards. Looking to the future, Sarah and Patricia are also keen to recruit and develop more prescribing pharmacists so that they can extend their support to additional GP practices without diluting quality. Sarah Cameron, founder, ProPharm, said: “We are proud to be reshaping primary care, improving patient access and easing GP workload in Scotland. Support from Business Gateway East Renfrewshire and the Council’s ERA Programme has been vital for growing and developing our business." "Looking ahead to our plans for the next year, I can confidently say that none of it would be possible had it not been for the support we have received, which has allowed us to expand our recruitment, understand risk and make significant changes to our digital platforms. We have also connected with a wider network that has brought a huge breadth of knowledge, contributing to our business growth.” Scott Arnot, Business Gateway adviser, said: “Sarah and Patricia are doing incredible work to drive forward the future of healthcare. It’s very clear that they both care about helping their patients and providing the highest level of care possible. Supporting ProPharm has been so rewarding, and I am looking forward to seeing where the business goes from here.” To find out more about ProPharm Services and the work that they do to improve patient care across NHS Scotland visit here . To find out more about Business Gateway and how they can help your business grow and succeed, visit here .

An Edinburgh-based digital and web services start-up is building a successful future after its founder turned to Business Gateway for support at a critical moment, following two years of significant personal and professional hardship. Power On Web Design, founded by Martin Kay in October 2024, provides creative web design, technology and digital consultancy services to small and medium-sized businesses across Scotland. Since launching in October 2024, the business has grown steadily, gaining recognition within the local business community and securing larger clients alongside its core start-up audience. For Martin, the launch of Power On Web Design marked a turning point following a challenging period both personally and professionally. After experiencing family bereavements, job losses and redundancy, he was also diagnosed with ADHD at the same time he first approached Business Gateway. Starting a business was not part of the plan but became an opportunity to rebuild and refocus. Drawing on a background in sales at a leading global cybersecurity firm, alongside a lifelong interest in creativity and design, Martin channelled his experience into creating a business focused on helping other small enterprises grow online. A turning point came when Martin reached out to Business Gateway for support. Working with adviser Lee Briggs, he accessed one-to-one guidance covering business planning, marketing and routes to funding. Lee also supported Martin through the application process for a start-up grant, working through the paperwork together and helping to remove barriers created by ADHD-related challenges. The funding secured through Business Gateway support enabled Martin to invest in key growth opportunities, including a Chamber of Commerce membership and having a professional exhibition stand produced. These investments helped raise the profile of Power On Web Design, leading to new connections, increased confidence and a growing pipeline of work driven largely by word-of-mouth referrals. As the business has developed, Martin has also benefited from wider Business Gateway support, including access to expert help, workshops and introductions to local business networks. The business has since relocated to a new office space, providing a more focused environment and supporting continued growth. Martin Kay, founder of Power On Web Design, said: “There was a point where everything felt uncertain, both personally and professionally. Power On Web Design came from a need to change direction and build something meaningful, even when I didn’t have a clear roadmap." “Business Gateway played a massive role in that journey. At a point when I was struggling to find direction, their support gave me confidence, structure and encouragement. The one-to-one guidance and help with funding made a real difference and helped me take that first proper step forward.” Lee Briggs, Business Gateway adviser, said: “Martin’s journey is a powerful example of resilience. He approached Business Gateway at a difficult time and was open about the challenges he was facing, which allowed us to tailor support around his needs." “Through one-to-one guidance, funding support and access to wider networks, Martin has built a business with strong foundations. Power On Web Design is already making an impact, and I look forward to supporting the next stage of its growth.” Business Gateway Edinburgh offers tailored support for neurodiverse founders, including dedicated advice, resources and specialist workshops designed to reflect different ways of thinking and working. This includes practical sessions such as marketing support for neurodiverse minds, helping entrepreneurs build confidence, develop strategies that play to their strengths and access guidance in a supportive environment. To find out more about how Business Gateway can help your business, visit here .

Leonard Curtis, the private equity-backed professional services group, has appointed its first Head of Corporate Development to drive M&A, partnerships and strategic growth. Logan Mantle joins the fast-growing multi-disciplinary team at Leonard Curtis, bringing vast experience into the business, which includes an eight-year spell in the Corporate Finance Advisory team at Deloitte. Leonard Curtis, which is headquartered in Manchester, has over 30 years’ experience in providing restructuring, legal, funding, M&A advisory and business services to SMEs and corporates throughout the UK and offshore. Pollen Street Capital took a majority stake in Leonard Curtis last August with a key focus on M&A to meet ambitious expansion targets. The Group’s acquisition activity will be focused on its restructuring and insolvency, legal and funding service lines. Logan is a proven performer in identifying and executing M&A transactions for owner-managed, privately owned, private equity-backed, and corporate businesses. These range from £10m to £300m across multiple sectors. His expertise includes acquisitions, disposals, buyouts, finance raising, and strategic reviews and extends to advising on cross-border transactions, including those in North America and Europe. Chief Operating Officer at Leonard Curtis, David Brown said: “Logan has all the skills we need to lead a proactive programme of M&A and other strategic partnership activity to scale our business and achieve our goals." “He is familiar with working at the highest level and in a private-equity backed environment with all the opportunities that provides. He has already hit the ground running on the brief, and we look forward to working with him.”

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) is sounding a warning shot ahead of a looming cost crunch in April that could push many small firms to breaking point. In less than two months, rising energy bills, business rates hikes, spiralling employment costs and changes to Statutory Sick Pay will all rise at a record pace, due to Government decisions. This could lead to closures, stalled growth and fewer entrepreneurs willing to start up a business - unless urgent action is taken. March’s Spring Forecast is the Government’s last chance to act before the new costs surge in April. FSB has written to the Chancellor, calling for her to protect the UK’s 5.7 million small businesses and self-employed people from these unparalleled cost hikes. Latest research from FSB has revealed more than a third (35%) of small businesses are planning to close or contract over the coming year, rising to 41 per cent in the wholesale and retail sector, and 45 per cent in accommodation and food services. Costs are already rising at a record pace, and more small firms are now seeing their revenues fall than rise. As a result, more businesses expect to shrink over the next year (35%) than grow (21%).   What’s rising in April and what can Government do to help? One of the biggest costs for small employers is the price of labour – driven by increases in the National Living Wage (NLW) and rising employer National Insurance contributions (NICs). Despite the increased Employment Allowance offsetting some of the cost, April will see further rises in the NLW, pushing up employers’ National Insurance bills. A small employer with nine staff on NLW has seen its annual employment costs rise by £25,850 between January 2025 and April 2026 - equivalent to the cost of an additional staff member. The same business’s employer national insurance bill over that period would have increased by £4,400, or 46%. The Government should uprate the Employment Allowance so it continues to cover the employer NICs costs of four employees on NLW. Many small businesses in England will see their business rates bills rise from April, due to the commercial property revaluation and changes to multipliers – as well as the loss of the 40% discount for retail, hospitality and leisure firms, replaced by a new multiplier.   FSB estimates these changes mean small businesses in these sectors will face an average 52% increase in bills, phased in over the next three years. We’re calling on the Government to extend the three-year support package for pubs to other small businesses in the retail, hospitality and leisure sector, and increase the Small Business Rate Relief threshold to £25,000. There is also a need for measures to protect small businesses from rising rates bills in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, where similar revaluations and other changes are coming into effect. Since the energy price crisis, energy costs have continued to rise. Small firms will see their annual standing charges increase by over 40% in April. A business with an annual electricity consumption of around 40,000kWh (typical for a small restaurant, hair salon or gym), would see their annual standing charge rise from £3,680 to £5,283. We are calling on the Government to remove up to 75% of the Renewable Obligation costs from non-domestic energy bills, mirroring the support that has already been given for households. Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) costs will jump from April, with all employees becoming eligible and payments starting from day one of sickness. FSB analysis finds this will add around £110 a year for every worker on the minimum rate. Introducing a SSP rebate for small and medium employers would mitigate the cost impacts of changes. From April, dividend tax rates will rise by two percentage points, taking the basic rate to 10.75% and the higher rate to 35.75%. For company directors, this means lower take home pay, as many rely on a mix of salary up to the personal allowance limit and dividends to withdraw income efficiently. We urge Government to defer the increase of the basic rate until April 2027. Business owners will also face compulsory Making Tax Digital compliance and increases in fees from Companies House. FSB Policy Chair Tina McKenzie said: “April’s impending cost crunch will make running a small business in the UK more expensive - and that has real consequences." “It will push already struggling small firms past breaking point, deter would be entrepreneurs from setting up in business as the numbers no longer stack up, and put the brakes on the small business growth the economy depends on." “Small businesses are resilient - but they are not invincible. They simply cannot go on absorbing endless cost increases. The local greengrocer who has been serving the community for 60 years, the tech start up that wants to expand and the garage that employs dozens of staff including apprentices – they will all be feeling the pressure and have to make tough decisions off the back of it." “Many of these hardworking businesses have already been forced to increase prices, lay off staff, or cancel expansion plans." “Next month’s Spring Forecast is the last chance to take action before the new costs surge. The Chancellor must recognise the huge pressure that our 5.7 million small businesses and self-employed people are under and show she is willing to ease even a fraction of these cost pressures to help stem the tide of these rising costs.”

With the T20 World Cup now well underway in India and Sri Lanka, property consultancy Vail Williams is marking its role in advising the University of Brighton on the opening of the UK’s largest indoor cricket academy. The Square One Cricket Academy at the University of Brighton enables aspiring cricketers to develop their talents while earning a degree through academic studies by offering top-tier professional coaching and cutting-edge facilities. The academy is a ground breaking partnership between the university and Square One Education Ltd and is based at the university’s new Brighton Sport and Health Complex in Falmer. At approximately 2,200 square metres, Square One Cricket Academy is larger than both Lord’s Indoor Cricket Centre and the National Cricket Performance Centre at Loughborough University – and is second biggest in the world. It offers nine-lane indoor cricket nets with full 21-metre run ups, ball tracking technology, advanced bowling machines and two indoor cricket courts – as well as modern cricket science and performance data. Steve Berrett, Vail Williams’ partner based in the Gatwick region, said: “This is a fantastic, world-class training environment catering to elite student cricketers of all ages, genders, backgrounds and abilities. This is a great example of repurposing underused leisure space. What was previously indoor tennis courts, originally part of Virgin Active fitness, now delivers a superb addition to the University’s sports facilities." “We assisted long-term client university in the leasing of the former tennis courts and act in an ongoing consultancy and advisory role with regard to matters such as the disposal of Pavilion Parade in Brighton and marketing of Leaf Hospital in Eastbourne." “The academy is the perfect place to develop the next Joe Root, Harry Brook or Joss Buttler and will also help the university further deliver on its ambition to be a top provider for sports education for students from across the UK and around the world.” Square One Education, which provided capital funding to refurbish the space and project managed its installation, now runs the academy on a day-to-day basis, providing a team of highly qualified and experienced coaches. As part of the arrangement, The Square One Cricket Academy will also be open to local clubs and schools for coaching purposes. Steve Porcher, University of Brighton director of estates, said: “We are delighted to see the Square One Cricket Academy open on our Falmer campus. It represents a major enhancement to our sport and health facilities and shows what can be achieved through effective partnership working." “Vail Williams has played an important role in helping us bring this project forward, and their support has been invaluable throughout the process." “This purpose built space will enable our students to excel both academically and athletically, while also creating new opportunities for local clubs and schools. It is a superb addition to the campus and a key part of our ambition to provide first-class facilities for our community.” The University of Brighton’s Falmer campus is home to its School of Education, Sport and Health Sciences and recently underwent significant refurbishment and expansion. This has seen the creation of world-class facilities to support teaching, learning and research alongside new sport and leisure facilities for students, staff and the local community. 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: Bowled Over: The University of Brighton’s new Brighton Sport and Health Complex in Falmer which houses the state-of-the-art Square One Cricket Academy, the UK’s largest indoor cricket academy

Local voices and leading Edinburgh ambassadors invite visitors to experience the city beyond the guidebook. Forever Edinburgh has launched Stay Like a Local, a new campaign designed to encourage visitors to experience the city through the eyes of the people who know it best. Centred on a partnership with social enterprise Invisible Cities, the campaign showcases Edinburgh’s hidden gems, neighbourhood culture and the wide variety of stays available across the city beyond the expected. At the heart of Stay Like a Local is a new Invisible Cities guided walking tour of the same name, created by local guides with lived experience of Edinburgh. Hear about the city from people who really know their history and the magic hidden behind the main streets and familiar tourist locations. The tour highlights off-the-beaten-path locations, lesser-known stories and everyday places loved by locals, offering visitors a deeper and more meaningful connection with the city. Guides share stories such as Whitefoord House on the Canongate, an 18th-century mansion that later became a print foundry before evolving into the city’s first residence for veterans, alongside hidden spaces like Dunbar’s Close Garden, a secluded pocket garden inspired by 17th-century design and Patrick Geddes’ vision for green spaces in the Old Town. The itinerary will be available as a dedicated Stay Like a Local tour, delivered by the Invisible Cities guides, sharing their key secrets of the city with tourists. Founded in Edinburgh, Invisible Cities is a social enterprise that trains people who have experienced homelessness to become walking tour guides in their own city. Through storytelling, guiding and meaningful employment, Invisible Cities creates opportunities for guides while offering visitors an honest and personal perspective on place. As a social enterprise, Invisible Cities prioritises offering ethical and sustainable tours. The partnership aligns with Forever Edinburgh’s commitment to supporting responsible tourism and community-led experiences. The campaign is further brought to life through recommendations from a collective of Edinburgh ambassadors spanning hospitality, culture, food and drink and visitor experiences. Each ambassador shares their personal take on the perfect Edinburgh break, demonstrating how the city can be enjoyed in many different ways, from literary escapes and culinary journeys to art-led adventures and maritime explorations. Ambassadors include founders and team members of Golden Hare Books, The Balmoral, Jupiter Artland, Mercat Tours, The Royal Yacht Britannia and Maid of the Forth. Michelin Guide chef Roberta Hall-McCarron, founder of The Little Chartroom, Ardfern and Eleanore has also shared her recommendations, alongside players from Edinburgh Rugby’s men's and women’s teams. Together, their recommendations illustrate the diversity of holidays available in Edinburgh, whether visitors are seeking a luxury city break, a culture-rich long weekend, a food-focused escape or an experience-led stay shaped by local knowledge. Zakia Moulaoui Guery, founder of Invisible Cities, said: “This partnership is about showing Edinburgh as it really is, through the places and stories that matter to the people who live here. Our guides bring a perspective you won’t find in a guidebook, shaped by lived experience and a deep connection to the city." “Being part of the Stay Like a Local campaign allows us to champion more responsible tourism, create meaningful work and invite visitors to explore Edinburgh in a way that benefits local communities.” Councillor Jane Meagher, leader of the City of Edinburgh Council said: “Edinburgh is a city of neighbourhoods, stories and communities, and Stay Like a Local encourages visitors to experience this in a way that is both authentic and responsible." “Working with Invisible Cities and their ambassadors helps visitors to discover parts of the city that they might otherwise miss – from independent bookshops and galleries to historic closes and local dining – ensuring that tourism benefits our residents and businesses, as well as our visitors.” Stay Like a Local is part of Stay Different a three-year behaviour change campaign led by Forever Edinburgh and funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Find out more about Stay Like a Local, sign up to the tour and read the ambassador’s recommendations here .

A south coast legal firm is working its way through a surge of instructions as business owners and directors race to beat an imminent tax deadline. Company law experts at Ellis Jones Solicitors say they are navigating a heightened case load ahead of the next phase of Capital Gains Tax (CGT) rules going live. From 6 April 2026, as announced by the government in its autumn 2024 Budget, there will be a further tightening of Business Asset Disposal Relief (BADR), previously Entrepreneurs’ Relief. For many years, BADR meant that the sale, disposal or transfer of ‘qualifying business assets’ such as company shares attracted a lower CGT rate of 10% on the first £1 million of gains. A year ago, the rate went up to 14% and from this April it will rise again by another four per cent to 18%. “The clock is ticking ever louder,” said Neil Cook, Partner & Head of Business Services at Ellis Jones. “On £1 million of gains, you instantly lost £40,000 on a transaction that completed after 6 April 2025. The CGT due went up from £100,000, being ten per cent, to £140,000, equating to 14%. In just a few weeks’ time there will be another cliff edge. Instead of £140,000, you will have to pay £180,000, reflecting the 18% rate. That’s a whopping £80,000 extra in tax compared with what you would have paid before April 2025.” Neil said the phased reduction of BADR continues to be a headache for many business owners and directors looking to exit through a sale. “In the run-up to last April, we were inundated with enquiries and instructions from business people right across the board desperate to see deals completed before the 14% rate came in. Now, with the 18% rate just a few weeks away, the rush has started again." “People who may have pinned their retirement plans on the expectation of paying a certain level of CGT are going to be thousands of pounds worse off if they don’t act immediately.” Neil said his team were busy working with clients to ensure everything is in place legally if they wish to complete a deal before 5 April to avoid the higher rate. He added that business owners should always consult a tax expert or accountant for the best tax advice concerning CGT and all tax matters. Members of Ellis Jones’ Business Services department work from the independent law firm’s offices in Dorset and London. As well as Neil, specialist solicitors advising and acting on business deals and CGT-related instructions are Clementine Saulnier, Wayne Spolander and Victoria Simpkin. For more information on Ellis Jones’ Business Services, visit here .

An ambitious project aimed at optimising low-energy processing of cultivated kelp to create a liquid biostimulant and animal feed supplement is closer to commercialisation after exceeding its initial targets in controlled field trials.   The project, called ‘Optimising low energy extraction of kelp for soil and livestock nutrition’ (or Low Energy Kelp), is funded by Innovate UK, the UK’s innovation agency, and builds on previous feasibility studies to optimise the liquid extraction and ensiling of kelp, aiming to develop a novel two-stage extraction process which produces consistent agricultural products.   Algapelago Marine Limited (lead partner), a farming-led seaweed biotech business operating an offshore seaweed farm, collaborated with Rothamsted Research and the UK Agri-Tech Centre to demonstrate the efficacy of these products under abiotic stress conditions.   Interest is growing in the use of seaweed-derived biostimulants in agriculture due to their potential to enhance crop growth, promote stress tolerance and increase nutrient use efficiency, and because they are derived from a sustainable source with positive environment impacts.   Current agri-seaweed products are dominated by seaweed sourced from wild harvest and the demand for seaweed-derived soil and animal supplements is expected to grow exponentially as policy drives a reduction in chemical inputs.   Experiments were conducted at Rothamsted’s controlled environment facilities where the partners could establish optimal application methods and rates for Algapelago’s prototype biostimulant. Firstly, Rothamsted investigated the impact of four different rates of foliar applications on wheat and field bean yields under both well-watered and drought-stressed conditions, and secondly, whether foliar application or soil application had the greatest impact on yields of wheat.   Further experiments assessed the timings of applications relative to growth stage, and applications under different drought stress scenarios (only one was tested here), were recommended to further understand and optimise the use of Algapelago’s biostimulant products.   Experiments using different rates of fertiliser application were recommended, as the biostimulant potentially could perform better under more nutrient-limited conditions than those that were used in the study.   Evidence found that seaweed-derived biostimulants can—and do—under certain conditions, provide crop yield benefits.   Dr Marieme Drame is the Scientific Technician at Rothamsted Research, North Wyke, and she speaks positively about the results they’ve found so far. She said: “Kelp-derived biostimulants offer a systems-based solution that works with plant and soil biology to enhance crop performance. At the optimal application rate in our wheat trials, we observed improved growth and yield, along with positive indirect effects on soil microbial activity, demonstrating clear value for productive and resilient farming systems.”   Dr Hari Ram Upadhayay, Scientist in Agroecosystem Biogeochemistry at Rothamsted Research, North Wyke, thinks the way forward is through teamwork. He said: “Collaboration is a key to driving innovation. Here, kelp-derived biostimulants innovation holds major promise for supporting sustainable intensification as agriculture adapts to a changing climate.” Also from Rothamsted Research is Professor Adie Collins, Science Director, and he believes that collaboration can be crucial to the success of the industry.   He said: “This project provides a good example of how industry and science teams can co-work together to ensure robust evidence is assembled on potential new interventions in support of sustainable and resilient agriculture in a changing and challenging world.”   Dr Saravanan Rengaraj, Innovation Associate for Soil Health at the UK Agri-Tech Centre, said: “Algapelago has successfully applied nature based farmed seaweed chemistry through a scalable biostimulant platform designed to enhance crop yield stability and nutrient use efficiency." “We at the UK Agri-Tech Centre feel proud to have supported with technical validation and project management.”   Kerr Jeferies, Market Research & Partnerships Manager at Algapelago, said: “The insights from our direct engagement with growers have been invaluable." “Hearing directly from leading farm managers and agronomists has sharpened our focus and made us even more confident in the product’s potential and market fit." “We’re excited to continue engaging with these partners as we go from prototype to full commercialisation of the UK cultivated kelp biostimulant.”   Speaking about the project and the progress it has made in exceeding its targets, Luke Ansell, Head of Operations & Research at Algapelago, said: “The Low Energy Kelp project set out an ambitious goal to unlock the supply of cultivated kelp as a quality agricultural supplement."   “Over the last two years, we've made great progress towards that goal, moving from concept phase to a low-energy processing method stress-tested at a 1-tonne scale."   “The prototype biostimulant product has far exceeded expectations in wheat trials, demonstrating that biostimulants sourced from cultivated seaweed can outperform market incumbents." “Though the Low Energy Kelp project has ended, we will continue to build the evidence base for product efficacy and move towards commercial production through the sister Innovate UK SKE-NMT project."   “I want to thank all project partners, including Atlantic Mariculture, Rothamsted Research and the UK Agri-Tech Centre, for their contributions."   “It's been a pleasure working with the consortium team and we look forward to providing more updates on our work soon.”   To hear the team explore the topic in more depth, visit here.   For more information about the project, visit here .

USA international Mae Sagapolu has committed her future to Loughborough Lightning by signing a new contract extension. The tighthead prop arrived from East Midlands rivals Leicester Tigers last summer and has made a huge impact in an African Violet shirt, appearing in all nine Premiership Women’s Rugby fixtures so far this season, scoring two tries. Her powerful ball carrying, strong scrummaging and destructive defence have been key features in Lightning’s campaign so far, having returned from featuring in all three of USA’s 2025 Rugby World Cup fixtures. Mae commented: “It’s been such a big push for me since I joined Lightning. I really enjoy the girls so much. Nathan [Smith] is a really good coach for me. He pushes me when I need to be pushed. Everyone’s attention to detail is so crazy and I think that’s such a big work-on for me." “I think I just fit in really well with the girls and they’ve made it like a big home for me, so coming back was an easy choice for me. Everyone treats me like family, and I love that the girls are constantly pushing every week." “I feel like I have become a better player and I have more tools in my toolbox as well. I’m surrounded by very knowledgeable people. I’m bouncing ideas off other people, they’re sharing ideas. They take the time to develop me, so I feel like I have improved my game." “There’s a lot still to work on this well, I feel like I’m in a good place working on solid foundations, I'm really looking forward to what’s ahead at Lightning.” Sagapolu’s next outing in a Lightning shirt is Sunday’s return to cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens on Sunday 22 February (kick-off: 1pm) against Bristol Bears. That Round 12 fixture is the first of three Lightning have at home in the space of four weeks, with Harlequins (13 March) and Gloucester-Hartpury (22 March) also heading to cinch Stadium. “We are not going to shy away from the challenge,” added Sagapolu. “We know we’re coming up against some really good sides. We’re buzzing to get into it, I'm excited to be involved. “I love playing at cinch Stadium. I find the little girls in their cowboy hats adorable! As a player seeing the amount of support we have, it motivates me. There’s something about seeing little girls wanting to be Lightning players. “I just feel extremely blessed and grateful to have the supporters we have. “They come, no matter what, rain or shine, everyone's there. It another boost for us. Even if we're on the back foot, they push us forward.” Sagapolu is the latest player to commit their future to Lightning, following on from previous announcements that Daisy Hibbert-Jones and Keevy Fitzpatrick have agreed new deals – and many more new contracts will be revealed in the weeks ahead. Lightning Head Coach Nathan Smith commented: “I am delighted that Mae has signed a new multi-year deal. Firstly, she is just a fantastic player to coach, and she is really good for the environment. We knew before she came to Lightning Mae was a quality player but she has made big improvements in her game already and I am excited to see how far she can take her game working with us during the duration of her contract." “It’s really important we retain players of Mae’s qualities and it is a big statement for us to make to keep her with us for a long period.” Photo : Credit Dennis Dixon.

Scotland’s leading business support festival is returning to Tayside this month to inspire local entrepreneurs and business owners. Transform Business Festival, which is created and delivered by Business Gateway and Elevator in partnership with Tayside’s three local authorities, will take place at Dundee Science Centre on Wednesday 18 February. The free event, which will be opened by Leader of Dundee City Council, Councillor Mark Flynn, aims to inspire, connect and transform entrepreneurs, start-ups and businesses of all sizes across the region. This year’s festival will feature Dave Coplin, former Chief Envisioning Officer of Microsoft UK, as a keynote speaker. With more than 25 years in the technology industry, Coplin is at the forefront of conversations on AI, big data, digitalisation and emerging technologies. He will explore how business and individuals can combine “human plus machines” to achieve the best results. Attendees will also get the chance to hear stories from local business owners, including Brechin-based entrepreneur Katrina Hutchinson-O’Neill, who founded recruitment company, Join Talent. Katrina is also CEO of Hatchwork Events, which runs Summer’s End Angus, which is set to be the second largest mainstream independent music festival in Scotland this year. Attendees can also enjoy networking activities and one-to-one business advisory sessions, as well as the chance to meet key Tayside support partners. Councillor Mark Flynn, Leader of Dundee City Council, said: “I’m very much looking forward to opening this year’s Transform Business Festival. Dundee’s economy thrives on innovation, and small businesses are at its heart. This event is a great chance for business owners, both new and established, to connect, share ideas and inspire each other. By supporting entrepreneurship, we’re investing in the future of our city and community." Elevator’s CEO, Rachel Ross, commented: “Tayside has some brilliant businesses and entrepreneurs, and Transform is about bringing them together. We focus on practical support - helping businesses scale, build stronger networks and access the expertise they need. Events like this create the connections that drive real growth, and we’re excited to welcome everyone back." Mandy McKenzie, Business Gateway Tayside Manager, said: “We’re very pleased to be bringing the Transform Business Festival back to Dundee. It’s a fantastic opportunity for local business owners, or those thinking about starting a business, to gain fresh ideas, meet like-minded people, and discover the support available to help them grow and succeed.”

Evtec Automotive Ltd based in Coventry has struck gold at a major national Manufacturing Awards ceremony picking up two awards, including being named Manufacturer of the Year. The awards, organised by Make UK, were held in London to recognise the achievements of companies from across the UK in six different categories. Evtec is a leading Tier 1 Automotive supplier and was presented with the national Make UK Health, Safety & Wellbeing Award having won the same award for the Midlands Region back in November. It was also crowned winner of winners picking up the Manufacturer of the Year against other companies who had also won national awards in six other categories The business intrinsically depends on the health & wellbeing of its employees to manufacture, assemble and deliver high quality assembles to global OEMs. The reward was given in recognition of the transformational nature of the company’s approach to health, safety and wellbeing including changing its practices to enable the recruitment of those with disabilities and other different backgrounds. Through investment in systems, culture, and people, Evtec Automotive has created a workplace that is safer, healthier, more inclusive and an environment from the Managing Director downwards where every employee takes ownership of health, safety & wellbeing. Jane Billson, Head of ESG at Evtec, said: “We are very proud to receive these awards which clearly demonstrates the dedication of every member of our team, whose passion and care continue to make Evtec a safer, healthier and more inclusive place to work.” Stephen Phipson, Chief Executive of Make UK, said: “These awards are a testament to the dynamic companies and individuals working within engineering and manufacturing. The sector remains at the heart of creating wealth in the UK and, as we grow our economy, there will be a bright future for companies and individuals that make the most of their talent.” In addition, the following companies received national awards: Bowers & Jones - Business Growth & Strategy Dyer Engineering Ltd - Developing Future Talent Airbond - Environment & Sustainability Lisi Aerospace Ltd - Innovation Acres Engineering - Manufacturing Impact Lionel Hitchen - SME of the Year Above Photo: Jane Billson, Head of ESG and Jez Hunt, Plant Manager at Evtec being presented with the award by Make UK CEO, Stephen Phipson.