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  • Williams Unveils New Name and Logo For 2026

    Atlassian Williams Racing will race next year under a new identity that connects the team’s glorious legacy to its bold and ambitious future. From January we will become Atlassian Williams F1 Team – a name reflecting their sole purpose to race and win in the top echelon of motorsport. And their existing ‘W’ logo will be replaced by a 21st century reimagining of Frank Williams’ famous ‘Forward W’, first introduced in our founding year of 1977 and featured on every one of our nine Constructors’ World Championship-winning cars. It is the latest evolution for an iconic Formula 1 team that is one of the top three most-successful in the sport’s history – and has set a clear ambition to be a powerhouse again in this modern era of F1. Throughout almost 50 years in F1 Williams has forged a legacy built on independence, innovation and determination to win, attracting tens of millions of dedicated fans around the world. Now under the ownership of Dorilton Capital, with James Vowles as Team Principal and world-class drivers in Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon, the team is driven to usher in a new era of success with the same passion and values at its heart as F1 continues to expand in global popularity. This transformation is already gathering pace, with the team sitting fifth in the 2025 Constructors’ Championship with 111 points – more than the past seven seasons combined. The team recently secured its first Grand Prix podium since 2021 in Baku, and first-ever Sprint podium in Austin. James Vowles, Team Principal, Atlassian Williams Racing: “I am proud that from next year we will be known as Atlassian Williams F1 Team and carry a logo on our car inspired by our founder Sir Frank Williams and deeply connected with our decades of success." “As a team we are inspired by our past but excited about our future, and committed to writing a new Championship-winning chapter in Williams’ history." “This evolved team identity reflects who we are, where we are going, and reintroduces our title-winning legacy to a growing F1 audience that was not following the sport when we were last dominant.” Marcus Prosser, Marketing Director, Atlassian Williams Racing: “With this new name and logo our rich history is being reimagined for the future. It is inspired by our past, confident about our future, and clear about our identity – a Championship-winning Formula 1 team with a burning drive to win again." “We hope our existing and loyal fans will love it. But we also hope it will connect a new generation to our incredible legacy, building the community of Williams fans that will carry us to our next victory.” About Atlassian Williams Racing For almost 50 years, Atlassian Williams Racing has been at the forefront of one of the fastest sports on the planet, being one of the top three most successful teams in history competing in the FIA Formula 1 World Championship. With an almost unrivalled heritage of engineering and racing F1 cars and unforgettable eras that demonstrate it is a force to be reckoned with, the British squad boasts 16 F1 World Championship titles to its name. Since its foundation in 1977 by the eminent, late Sir Frank Williams and engineering pioneer Sir Patrick Head, the team has won nine Constructors’ Championships, in association with Cosworth, Honda and Renault. Its roll call of drivers is legendary, with its seven Drivers’ Championship trophies being lifted by true icons of the sport: Alan Jones, Keke Rosberg, Nelson Piquet, Nigel Mansell, Alain Prost, Damon Hill and Jacques Villeneuve. The team has made history before and is out to make it again with a long-term mission to evolve and return to the front of the grid.

  • Lucky Seven As Azets’ Newbury Runners Reach The Finish Line

    Seven accountants from Newbury swapped their calculators for running shoes as they took part in a prestigious race. The team, based at the town’s office of UK top 10 accountancy firm Azets, participated in the Basingstoke 10k run. Catriona Millar, Jenny White, Jason Collins, Cameron McArdle, Harry Collins, Chris Norris and Kristina Pallaiova all made it to the finish line in just over an hour. Azets’ Newbury office sponsored two of the race day barriers at the event which was organised by Destination Basingstoke and also featured a half marathon, 5k race and children’s event. Harry Collins, tax senior, said: “We all had a marvellous time – an excellent course, closed roads and a great atmosphere made this a real festival of running."“ "Some of us might even make the move up to the half marathon next year, although that might take a little more training!” Louise Rhoades, partner, accounts and business advisory services, said: “Events like this are the lifeblood of our community, bringing people together while also extolling the benefits of keeping fit." “Basingstoke is only a quick hop down the A339 from Newbury and we were more than happy to support the event.” Azets, the UK’s specialist business advisor to SMEs, is based in the centre of Newbury at Elizabeth House on London Road, conveniently placed just off the A4 and a 15-minute walk from Newbury train station. The team operates from a modern, open plan office with plenty of parking and provides a range of services tailored to businesses of all scales, encompassing sole traders to limited companies. Office managing partner is Neil Elsden, a Chartered Accountant with over 25 years' experience advising SMEs with their strategic and compliance concerns. Photo: On the run: The Azets team at the finish line of the Basingstoke 10k run with their medals, from left, are Catriona Millar, Jenny White, Jason Collins, Cameron McArdle, Harry Collins, Chris Norris and Kristina Pallaiova

  • Local Drinks Producer Partners With Derbyshire Police

    Global Brands, the Chesterfield-based drinks producer behind the likes of Hooch, VK, and Franklin & Sons, has announced it is supporting Derbyshire Police and Crime Commissioner on her “Don’t Risk The Drive” campaign – aiming to combat drink driving over the festive period. The campaign, which is set to launch on 3rd November, is designed to encourage locals to plan ahead of any festivities this Christmas – such as exploring public transport routes, having a designated driver for the night, booking taxis or enjoying 0% alternatives – to combat levels of drink driving in the region. Global Brands LTD, whose drinks are stocked in over 200 venues across Derbyshire and which also operates the Casa Hotel and Peak Edge Hotel in Chesterfield, has pledged its support to the campaign, in a move which will see it introduce bespoke no & low menus for designated drivers and non-drinkers in its local venues, as well as for its customers nationwide that serve its soft drink and mixer brand, Franklin & Sons. The drinks producer is also offering 100 free cases of Franklin & Sons Pressed Raspberry Lemonade to its existing customers nationally, as well as supporting promotional artwork for these venues, to drive awareness of the campaign. Zehra Gezer, Head of Corporate Marketing at Global Brands, said: “We know that, as a large drinks producer, we have a duty of care to our communities on both a national and regional scale, and this is a responsibility that we hold seriously." “We are grateful to have the opportunity to work collaboratively with Derbyshire Constabulary to combat this important topic and make a meaningful impact for our local area. We hope other local businesses will follow suit and get behind this important campaign.” Steve Perez, CEO and founder of Global Brands, Casa Hotel and Peak Edge Hotel, added: “The advancement in no and low drinks over recent years has been remarkable and there are now plenty of brilliant alcohol alternatives available both at our Casa Hotel and Peak Edge Hotel, as well venues across the country." “We’re proud to support the Police and Crime Commissioner on this important campaign. There’s no reason anyone should risk getting behind the wheel after a drink, and I’d urge everyone to think ahead this Christmas – plan your journey, enjoy the celebrations, and make sure everyone gets home safely.” Derbyshire Police and Crime Commissioner Nicolle Ndiweni-Roberts said: “We are all proud to work with Global Brands to highlight the importance of planning ahead and taking care when going out in our city, towns, villages, and rural communities." “I want residents and visitors to enjoy everything Derbyshire has to offer – to connect, celebrate, and catch up with family and friends. But during this busy season, I hope everyone remembers that just one lapse in judgment can have devastating, lifelong consequences." “No matter the temptation, it is never worth it. Please, don’t risk the drive. I’m urging the public and businesses to join us in making sure everyone gets home safely. This campaign is about planning ahead, knowing your options, and removing the opportunity for recklessness – avoiding harm to yourself and others." “I’m proud to see Global Brands leading the way. With the company’s significant local and national presence, I really value the support given - promoting this campaign and the practical steps it is taking to increase low and zero-alcohol options across their venues." "This leadership sets a powerful example for the rest of the industry across Derbyshire and beyond. As a partnership it demonstrates what can be achieved when both public and private sector partners work together to raise awareness, change behaviours, and ultimately save lives on our roads.” Photo: L-R, Nicolle Ndiweni-Roberts, Derbyshire Police and Crime Commissioner and Steve Perez, CEO and founder of Global Brands, Casa Hotel and Peak Edge Hotel

  • Henry Brothers Construction Reaches Milestone

    Contractor Henry Brothers Construction has staged a topping out celebration to mark completion of the main building frame for the £25m Global Conservation Centre the company is delivering at Twycross Zoo. Due to open in 2027, the state-of-the-art facility is set to become a world-first hub for conservation research, education, and collaboration, strengthening Twycross Zoo’s role as a leading UK charity dedicated to protecting endangered species. The centre has received £18million from the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund, the largest single Government grant ever awarded to a UK zoo, and is being built by Henry Brothers Construction in partnership with Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council and leading UK universities. Ian Taylor, MD at Henry Brothers Construction, said: “We are very proud to be delivering the Global Conservation Centre at Twycross Zoo. The topping out of the orangutan building marks a milestone in the construction of this exciting development which will also feature a two-storey building with lecture theatre, research and teaching spaces, and a science lab, along with a two-storey residential facility." “The Henry Brothers team is thrilled to be working with our partners on a world-class project that will make a game-changing contribution to the fight against extinction for endangered wildlife and we are looking forward to progressing with the other elements of this state-of-the-art scheme.” For guests attending the topping out event, it was the chance to view the site from the highest point and celebrate the completion of the main building frame. Craig Dunkerley, CEO of Twycross Zoo, said: “Reaching this stage of the Global Conservation Centre is a landmark moment for Twycross Zoo. This isn’t just about bricks and mortar, it’s about the bold future we are building for wildlife, and the extraordinary opportunities it will create for scientists, students, and conservationists to work together to protect endangered species. The centre embodies our vision to inspire the next generation of wildlife heroes and make a lasting impact on global conservation.” Dr Rebecca Biddle, Chief Conservation Officer at Twycross Zoo and Vice Chair of EAZA added: "Once complete, the Global Conservation Centre will feature a 200-seat lecture theatre, classrooms, wildlife gardens, and a science lab overlooking a new orangutan habitat. A 24-bedroom residential wing will host visiting experts and students, helping train the next generation of conservation leaders." “This facility will allow scientists, educators, and conservationists from across the globe to work alongside the species we are striving to protect, developing practical solutions for some of the world’s most threatened wildlife. By connecting our research and education programmes with the new Indonesian-themed land, including a world-class orangutan habitat, the centre will offer unparalleled opportunities to learn, collaborate, and act for conservation.” Designed with sustainability at its heart, the project will also benefit the local community, creating 90 new jobs and generating an estimated £3.9 million in GVA per year.

  • Peposhi Pens New Deal

    Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce Eliot Peposhi has signed a new full-time three-year deal – with thanks to the Bradford Bulls Squad Booster Association for their support. The 21-year-old initially arrived on a trial basis prior to the start of our 2024 campaign, before being rewarded with a permanent three-year deal after a string of impressive, industrious performances. A former St Helens junior, Peposhi has made 15 appearances to date alongside productive loan spells at Dewsbury Rams and Batley Bulldogs this season. Peposhi, who was sponsored by Richard Bloodworth and Lilly Grace in 2025, said: “I am really happy to be staying at Bradford, I said when I signed last year that it was every child’s dream to play Super League so it is amazing to be able to look forward to playing for Bradford in Super League." “I have been putting my all in every day since coming to the club and going full-time means I can give this everything I’ve got to make an impact at Bradford. I am looking forward to getting into pre-season training and doing my best to impress Kurt, there is still a lot more to my game and I know I will be able to develop and continue progressing over the next three years.” Bradford Bulls Head Coach Kurt Haggerty said: “I like Eliot, he gives 100% in absolutely everything that he does. He is aggressive, he’s physical, he isn’t a big man but he certainly plays big. There’s a lot to his game that I like and I think moving into a full-time environment we will really see the best of him."

  • Buzzworks Appoints New Property Director

    Award-winning Scottish hospitality operator, Buzzworks, has announced the appointment of Maurissa Fergusson as its new Property Director. Her addition to the leadership team is the latest in a series of senior appointments, reflecting the company’s growth strategy as it expands into rooms and accommodation. With over 25 years of experience in the property and real estate industry, Maurissa’s career spans the commercial, retail and hospitality sectors. A qualified architect, Maurissa has led major projects across the UK, including at Scotmid, where she oversaw property, development and facilities. Passionate about how spaces shape experiences, she focuses on creating welcoming, functional environments that reflect brand identity and encourage repeat visits. Maurissa Fergusson, Property Director at Buzzworks, said: “Branching into rooms and accommodation is a natural next step for Buzzworks, and I’m proud to be leading this new chapter of the company’s growth." “Buzzworks have an industry leading reputation for exceptional hospitality, and my focus is on delivering a steady pipeline of well-chosen spaces that perform well and reflect that same level of care and quality." “This is an exciting opportunity to shape a new guest experience, whilst also supporting and enhancing the long-term development of our people and portfolio.” Maurissa will lead the Projects and Facilities team, overseeing all stages of property development, renovation, and maintenance throughout the group’s already impressive portfolio of 22 bars and restaurants across Scotland. Kenny Blair, Managing Director of Buzzworks, added: “Maurissa brings an extensive wealth of property knowledge and experience that will prove invaluable to our team. Her expertise in balancing operational efficiency with delivering an exceptional guest experience will be instrumental as the business expands its offerings." “This is a really exciting chapter for Buzzworks and we are thrilled to have Maurissa on board." Buzzworks was recently crowned Best Managed Pub Company in the UK (Under 51 sites) at The Publican Awards – the first Scottish operator to achieve this accolade.

  • Keyes Pens New Deal

    Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce Joe Keyes has penned a new full-time deal to remain with the club until the end of the 2026 season. The half-back returned for a third spell in the red, amber and black prior to the start of our 2025 campaign, making 24 appearances and scoring six tries. Keyes joins Jayden Nikorima and Rowan Milnes as options in the halves ahead of our eagerly anticipated return to Betfred Super League next year – with the Ireland international looking forward to the prospect of being back in the top flight. Joe Keyes, who was sponsored by Stuart Readyhough @ Maclean And Co in 2025 said:  “I am really excited to have the opportunity to be a part of the next exciting chapter at the Bulls. I’ve enjoyed my time since being back and looking forward to building on that this coming season.” Bradford Bulls Head Coach Kurt Haggerty said: “He will be pushing the likes of Jayden Nikorima and Rowan Milnes and Joe is a very competent player in his own right. He's been a very good Championship player, he's tipped his toe in and out of Super League which shows that he has the ability to play Super League. “There are a lot of parts to Joe’s game that I like and there are a lot of parts to his game that I think I can help him with. He's a really good player to have in our squad.”

  • Linwoods Welcomes Olympic Gold Medallist As New Brand Ambassador

    Linwoods is delighted to announce Olympic Gold Medallist Rower Hannah Scott MBE as the brand’s newest Brand Ambassador. During her recent visit to Linwoods HQ, Hannah toured the production plant and delivered inspiring talks to the Linwoods team, sharing her insights on motivation, performance, and the importance of nutrition in achieving success. A dedicated fan of Linwoods products, Hannah’s training fuel includes Linwoods Overnight Oats and Milled Flaxseed, which she credits as essential parts of her daily routine. Her personal motto, “Oats move boats,” perfectly captures her belief in the power of good nutrition to drive performance." “We are absolutely delighted to team up with Hannah,” said Patrick Woods, Managing Director, Linwoods. “She embodies everything Linwoods stands for, health, vitality, and helping people feel great every day.” As an elite athlete and inspiring role model, Hannah Scott MBE is the perfect representative of Linwoods’ commitment to supporting people on their journey to better health and wellbeing.

  • Sustainability Chain Takes Centre Stage To Unlock Green Potential

    Dozens of businesses keen to put clean growth and sustainability at the heart of their everyday operations are set to attend a free conference and exhibition in Basingstoke. Practical steps to achieve more sustainable supply chains will be a key focus at the third annual Unlocking Hampshire's Green Potential. Organisers aim to build on the success of last year’s event which brought together more than 130 decision makers from companies, the third sector and local government. Open to businesses of all sizes and in all sectors, UHGP is staged by Hampshire Chamber of Commerce in partnership with headline sponsor Basingstoke and Dean Borough Council. Ross McNally, Hampshire Chamber’s Chief Executive and Executive Chairman, said: “As our region’s independent voice of business, we want firms of all sizes and in all sectors to champion green growth. That’s why this event is open to all, so we can share insights and learn from each other. We welcome entrepreneurs just starting out, alongside aspirational SMEs and larger enterprises looking to make big changes in support of people and planet.” The day features expert advice on how to access green finance under ESG (environmental, social and governance) goals coupled with practical insight from innovators who have already built green investments into their operations. Leader of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Councillor Paul Harvey said: “This event puts a spotlight on sustainable procurement which is no longer a nice-to-have; it’s a competitive edge. Sourcing locally in Hampshire helps businesses to cut carbon, appeal to eco-conscious customers, retain great staff and, ultimately, boost their bottom line.” Also partnering on UHGP is Farnborough Airport, the first business aviation airport in the UK to achieve carbon neutrality. Mark Sanderson, Corporate Responsibility Manager, said: “With a long-standing history of supporting opportunities and prosperity in the local area, Farnborough Airport is a proud sponsor of UHGP.” Returning as one of the presenters will be Dr. Wendy Buckley, Director and Co-founder of Carbon Footprint Ltd and Chair of the North Hampshire Sustainability Business Network. Also sharing advice will be Barry Smith, Chair Basingstoke for Hampshire Chamber, who has led much of the event planning. Barry said: “UHGP is an ideal first-hand opportunity to gain practical advice on how to achieve your ESG goals from leading experts in the field of sustainability. It’s all about making real change happen and meeting like-minded businesses and supply chain partners.” Unlocking Hampshire’s Green Potential 2025 takes place at the Apollo Hotel, Basingstoke, RG24 9NU, on Tuesday 18 November 2025 between 9am and 1pm.

  • Mum’s Words Of Support Ringing In Her Ears As Audiologist Marks Business Anniversary

    A Brazilian entrepreneur visited the UK to learn English - funded by the sale of her late grandad’s cows - and never returned! Next week she is celebrating the second anniversary of her audiology clinic in Warwickshire with a special Open Day – in aid of a national hearing charity. Carolina Leal is opening the doors to the Audiology Expert, to say thank you to the community she now calls home – and there will even be a special canine guest dropping in thanks to their national charity partners on the day, Hearing Dogs For Deaf People. With impressive career credentials spanning over 18 years, Carolina’s thirst for professional knowledge has helped shape the next generation of audiologists through her experience in both teaching and overseeing national studies, some of which have even led to policy change. As an active member of the British Society of Audiology, she has written national guidance protocols as well as conducting UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service) assessments and numerous consultancy roles. Dually trained with a BSc in Audiology and Speech & Language Therapy from Brazil, Carolina completed her MSc in Advanced Audiology from University College London, in 2012 while working in her first professional role as a medical technical officer at The Royal National Throat, Nose and Ear Hospital. Indeed, she has come a long way since leaving her small hometown of Santo Antônio do Grama at the age of just 14, making the most of a private schooling opportunity afforded to her by her uncle. But she said: “After my degree, I found myself questioning what I wanted to do next. I knew I didn't want to go back to my hometown, so I decided to do a masters, but really needed to learn English first." “Around this time my mum had inherited some land and cows from my late grandad so she sold the cows and gave me the money to come to London. But I ended up staying longer than the six months I had planned and paid my way through English school with part-time work in a florists.” Years of practising and teaching experience eventually led her to Keyla De Magalhaes, who supported Carolina’s ambitions to emulate the success of her The Audiology Expert business model in Suffolk. Now Carolina’s learning continues as she strives to complete the PhD in Clinical Neuroscience she started with the University of Cambridge - slowed by a series of setbacks, from Covid to divorce and co-parenting and grieving the loss of her mother back in Brazil. This led Carolina to relocate to Leamington Spa where she had a short spell as a lecturer at Aston University before going on to work in the private sector. “I recall I went back to Brazil and told my mum: ‘I'm giving up this PhD now because I have had enough’ - but just before she died she begged me not to. ‘You can do it,’ she would say. So every time I catch myself asking why am I doing this, thinking of my mum gives me that purpose. It would have made her so proud.” These supportive words will also be ‘ringing in her ears’ on November 6th when Carolina is joined by fellow experts to offer advice and guidance on all things audiology in a relaxed setting. Visitors later on in the day may even be lucky enough to meet Robyn, the 10-year-old yellow labrador from Hearing Dogs for Deaf People and learn all about the work of the charity, which is the event’s nominated fundraising partner. Vicky Ryan, Community Fundraising Manager at Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, said: “It costs around £40,000 to care for and train a hearing dog throughout their lifetime, so any funds raised will make a real difference - helping us to create even more life-changing partnerships in Warwickshire and the surrounding areas.” Carolina hopes the free event will dispel some of the myths she says still surround hearing aids. Also attending will be The Mayor of Leamington, Councillor Ruggy Singh, who said: “I am looking forward to meeting the audiologists who carry out such valuable work in our community. Hearing is something that many of us take for granted until there is a problem, yet it plays such a crucial role in how we connect with others. Having your hearing checked regularly is a step that can significantly enhance your quality of life.” The Audiology Expert offers everything from full hearing assessments to ear wax removal. Carolina said: “There is a lot of stigma around wearing hearing aids. I'm always honest with everyone in terms of the technology that we offer, but also the limitations." “Technology has come a long way in how soon we can diagnose problems before it affects speech and language development. There are a lot of people for whom hearing aids change the quality of their life completely, so I find that hugely rewarding. It's that joy of reintroducing them to things that they didn't even realise they were missing before. It can feel like you’re giving them their life back.” She added: “The secret to the success of my clinic is in the one-to-one contact and just taking the time with the patient and offering tailored personal care, all of which gives me a lot of personal satisfaction.” The Open Day takes place at The Audiology Expert at Pure Offices, Plato Close, Leamington with drop-ins welcomed between 10am-5pm.

  • Successful Sibling Hoteliers Are Vying For Same Tourism Award

    When sibling hoteliers in Blackpool both vie for a prestigious award there will be no need for rivalry because this time they are proud joint finalists for Best Family-Run Hotel. Nigel Seddon and Liz Brown’s dream is to share in the Lancashire Tourism Awards spotlight for the first time, for their businesses The Elgin and Hotel Sheraton, both on the Queen’s Promenade. It marks a proud milestone in the family’s long history as hoteliers, which began some 56 years ago. In 1969 Irene and John Seddon moved from Greater Manchester to Blackpool to take over The Elgin, with the help of John’s mother, Dodo, who was involved in all aspects of the business until the age of 70. It was ten years later that 21-year-old Nigel gave in to his ambitions to travel Australia to become the third generation of Seddons to join the business, taking on the role of General Manager at The Elgin – and has not looked back, working hard to build on the success of the hotel. His proudest achievement, securing the much-coveted Top Spot on TripAdvisor! He said: “My main job was to get people through the door and then develop the hotel, because at that time we had 55 rooms and only two bathrooms. People queued down the corridor for a bath and it was 10p in the meter for heating and you’d get a hot water bottle in your bed!" "Slowly, but surely, over ten years, we turned 55 rooms into 40 ensuite rooms and then, in 2001, we bought the hotel next door, The Bolingbroke, and more than doubled our capacity, going to 89 bedrooms." “Not long after I'd started, dad got quite ill and mum needed to look after him and I just had to get on with it. I was pretty autonomous really."   “Dad died 36 years ago but mum carried on working until we bought the hotel next door and then retired. She is very much a matriarch and still likes to be involved - and the long-standing guest and staff members love chatting to her.” In 1985, Elgin Tours was also launched, offering ABTA-bonded, travel-inclusive holidays, which is still popular today. Whilst proud of his raft of awards - including The Lancashire Tourism Awards’ Large Hotel of the Year last year - Nigel hopes to share the latest spoils with his sister when they vie for the Best Family-Owned Business – together. He said: “There’s a bit of healthy competition between my sister and I. It’s like the old cliché - the best thing that happened to Coke was Pepsi!" “But we learn from each other. We like to think we complement each other really. We have different strengths. For example, Liz will do all the interior design for here, and I sign the bills off at the Sheraton. But it was important we didn’t go up against each other in these awards.” In 2015, the Hotel Sheraton was purchased; a milestone moment marking Liz’s long-anticipated official entry into the family business, with valuable contributions from the fourth generation, Liz’s son, Ollie, who is part of the management team - wife Laura also supporting sales and marketing. Together, the hotels employ around 150 dedicated staff and generate a combined annual turnover of around £8.5 million with 10% of turnover reinvested each year into annual refurbishments. Liz wasted no time in making her mark in the local hotel scene, adding to the family business accolades, most recent of which was the prestigious ROSE (Recognition of Service Excellence) Award from VisitEngland. And she’s now snapping at Nigel’s heels in the TripAdvisor Number three spot, the Sheraton’s highest ranking to date. Liz said: “Providing a high level of customer service was instilled into us from a very young age but in recent years it's been more about delighting the customer by anticipating their needs, simply being proactive as well as reactive." “Our little secret is that hospitality begins with the team and we care about our team just as much as we do about the guests. We try and anticipate their needs too and help in whichever way we can so our family values of kindness and generosity are show to each other, to our guests, and to our very valuable team members.” Indeed, both Liz and Nigel claim it’s their family-led approach and dedication to outstanding customer and staff care that most drives their success. Liz said: “One of the biggest advantages of being a family business is the ability to make thoughtful decisions quickly. There’s a shared commitment to protecting the legacy and ensuring the business remains sustainable; not just financially, but also in terms of its people, its community relationships and its environmental impact. Decisions are made with a sense of stewardship, not just strategy." “It’s this blend of leadership, loyalty, and heart that sets the business apart and it's why so many guests, staff, and partners feel part of something much more than just a hotel stay.” Nigel added: “Since acquiring the hotels the Seddon family has proudly upheld a tradition of hospitality rooted in warmth, trust, and community spirit. Succession planning is not a formal process; it’s a lived experience." "From an early age, the next generation has been immersed in the business; from Liz and I helping in the restaurant growing up, to my daughters, Sophie and Emma, working in reception during their school holidays."   “All have been encouraged to explore the business and its values, learn the ropes and identify whether a passion for hospitality emerges. Leadership is never handed down or forced; it is nurtured through mentorship, shared responsibility and earned respect.” “We follow customer feedback very closely. The best advice you'll get is from your own guests or your own staff, which is as true now as it was when I started out. We're always striving for 100% customer and staff satisfaction.” Irene said: “I was so pleased both Nigel and Liz entered the family business and enjoy it immensely and for the last 10 years I have my grandson Oliver in the business too." “I realised at the age of 88 how lucky I am to be able to discuss the businesses with them and help them make decisions. We are all very lucky that we have got each other.” Ultimately, say Liz and Nigel, the legacy is about people - the guests, the team and the family. By instilling pride, purpose, and a shared vision, the Seddons have built more than a business; they’ve created a living legacy that they believe will stand the test of time for generations to come.

  • Cleanology’s Annual Charity Fundraiser Excels Again

    Over 150 guests enjoyed a memorable evening at The Law Society in the heart of legal London when they raised over £34,000 to help The Hygiene Bank charity play a major role in beating the stigma of hygiene poverty. The ever-popular annual fundraiser hosted by multi-award-winning office and commercial cleaning company Cleanology has established such a strong following that it has now raised over £151,000 in its first five years. Dominic Ponniah, event organiser and Co-Founder of Cleanology, said: “Yet again our many friends and colleagues in the FM industry have been incredibly generous to ensure this event remains as successful as ever. Sadly hygiene poverty remains a real blight on society but this event is proof that there are many determined and spirited people who want to play a part in beating it." Ruth Brock, CEO of The Hygiene Bank, said: “Cleanology’s continued commitment to ending hygiene poverty is truly inspiring. Partnerships like this show what’s possible when businesses and social causes come together with a shared purpose. Cleanology's annual fundraiser is a powerful example of collective action in practice, and, thanks to everyone's generosity, we will be able to make a real difference to thousands of people across the UK who are struggling to afford basic hygiene products."  "I am so grateful to Dominic and all his wonderful team at Cleanology, and to the sponsors who made this event possible. They truly make me believe that hygiene poverty is solvable, if we choose to, and if we do it together.” The event – held on October 9 at the Grade II iconic venue in Chancery Lane – was sponsored by field service management software company BigChange, insurance brokers Brown & Brown, janitorial suppliers and distributors Bunzl, cleaning and hygiene products manufacturer Evans Vanodine, cleaning supplies and solutions provider Foremost, sustainable hygiene solutions firm Katrin, global manufacturer and provider of personal care products, Kimberly-Clark and washroom services firm Liberty Hygiene. The exterior of the venue, The Law Society, was also illuminated in yellow as part of the charity’s National Hygiene Week campaign to focus attention on hygiene poverty. At the fundraiser, guests enjoyed drinks, bowl food and live music by talented vocal harmony trio The Bluebirds. The event also took a different format this year, with a panel discussion, chaired by Dominic Ponniah, and featuring Laura Yorke from Bunzl, a corporate supporter, Phil Smith of Indigo FM, a volunteer, and Lorraine Waters, a volunteer and trustee of The Hygiene Bank, as well as their CEO Ruth Brock. The evening saw competitive bidding for auction and raffle prizes such as a golf day for four in Hampshire, a boat trip for 10 people on the River Thames hosted by networking group The Hill Club, a guided wine tour and tasting experience for two at Chapel Down Winery in Kent and two tickets to the Stratus Hospitality Suite at Tottenham Hotspur FC’s stadium in North London. The Hygiene Bank is a people-powered charity and social movement, committed to tackling hygiene poverty in communities across the UK. It believes that no one should have to choose between staying clean and meeting other basic needs. Through their network of projects, they provide essential hygiene products to those experiencing poverty or crisis. Cleanology – headquartered in Vauxhall, South West London, and with regional offices in Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol and Scotland – runs campaigns throughout the year to raise funds and awareness for hygiene poverty and staff participate in fund-raising opportunities such as marathons.

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