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More than 100 property professionals gathered to help an expanding finance lender in the sector celebrate its 45th anniversary. MSP Capital invited clients, suppliers, partners, team members and prospects to an afternoon party at Scaplen’s Court in Poole, Dorset, near to its head office. The theme was ‘Built to Last’, reflecting the importance of strong foundations and solid long-term strategy for both property development and overall business success. It was the latest in-person industry event hosted by the principal lender since Chief Executive Leigh Bartlett last year set a new loan book target of reaching £750 million by 2030. Leigh said: “Bringing together so many valued contacts in such a relaxed and enjoyable setting was a real pleasure. Forty-five years is quite a milestone. Events like these are about celebrating the connections that drive our business forward." “All the suppliers who came along were local and we thank them for helping to make the day such a success. We look forward to many more events like this in the future as we continue to grow the strong relationships that underpin what we do best.” MSP Capital’s longest-serving current employee, Commercial Director Adam Tovey, who joined in 2010, said: “The original purpose of our firm was to help property developers access funds when they faced challenges raising capital elsewhere, from high street banks or other lenders." “Forty-five years on, our blend of flexibility, agility, property insight and customer focus continues to help us grow. We work closely with developers, housebuilders, brokers and other property professionals and we’re increasingly operating on a national basis.” Among the guests at the celebration was Duncan McCarthy of developer Nord Homes who has been an MSP Capital customer since 2007 when he was having difficulties sourcing funding elsewhere for a five-home development in Wimborne. Duncan said: “MSP Capital are easy to work with, and it is very helpful over the longer term when you see familiar faces who understand what you are trying to do and can help. They offer flexible terms and always find a way of making it work when banks are being more rigid.” Also there was Nigel Price, Chairman of estate agent Goadsby Residential, who said: “MSP Capital are straightforward to work with, very professional and approachable.” Guests were entertained by music from jazz band The Gershwin Gang and fun facts shared by compere Paul Kinvig. Reflecting the ‘Built to Last’ theme, caterer Molecular Magic served canapes and desserts decorated inventively to resemble materials from the property sector such as concrete and wood. And in a further ‘Built to Last’ touch, saddler James Edwards from North Devon firm Acorn Saddlery was on hand to make offcut leather into coasters personalised for each guest with their initials using embossing tools. Founded in Poole in 1981, MSP Capital has grown to employ a 60-strong team, all ‘property people’ irrespective of their department, with further appointments due this year. Having caught the attention of institutional investors, a controlling interest in the firm was sold to Cabot Square Capital in 2018. Pollen Street Capital, Shawbrook Bank and the world’s largest bank, JP Morgan, are also funding partners, adding capacity to enable highly competitive lending rates across both development and bridging loan products. MSP Capital is hosting a further anniversary celebration this month at Lockes Bar in Covent Garden, London, for around 50 brokers based in the Capital. Photo: Chief Executive Leigh Bartlett addresses the audience at MSP Capital’s 45th anniversary celebration in Poole.

Bestway Wholesale has appointed Charles Abraham as Food Service Director, strengthening its senior leadership team as the business accelerates its growth across catering, foodservice and the on-trade markets. Charles has extensive senior leadership experience across the foodservice and wider food and hospitality related industries, delivering growth and transformation in commercial, operational and strategy roles. Most recently Charles had been working with Gate Gourmet, supporting growth and operational change in the UK. Prior to that he worked for Sodexo as the Director of Foodservices, where he was responsible for the food strategy and transformation programme in the UK&I business. Speaking of his appointment, Charles said: “I am delighted to join Bestway and excited by the opportunity to grow and develop the foodservice wholesale business, and after 30 years working in foodservice and hospitality, I understand the needs of the customer which is even more critical in these challenging times for the industry” Dawood Pervez, Managing Director of Bestway Wholesale, added: “We are delighted to welcome Charles to the Bestway team. His leadership and extensive industry knowledge will ensure we deliver greater value, insight, and strategic support to our catering customers nationwide.” Bestway Wholesale operates one of the UK’s largest independent wholesale networks, serving retailers, caterers and licensed operators through its nationwide 70-depot estate and delivered infrastructure. Charles’ appointment reinforces Bestway’s continued investment in specialist capability as it expands its presence in high-growth hospitality and foodservice channels.

M&S is investing £2.1bn and extending its commitment to sourcing British lamb and beef through two decade-long contracts with ABP and Dunbia, supporting 3,500 British M&S Select Farms Long term commitments give British suppliers the surety of supply and confidence to invest against a challenging backdrop and increased competition M&S's Plan A for Farming strategy is built around a commitment to sourcing 100% British on key products like beef, chicken, pork and eggs M&S is the only UK retailer to offer Best in Season, 100% British across all fresh lamb - starting with West Country lamb in the south of the UK, moving north as the season progresses. M&S announces that it is extending its commitment to British lamb and beef farming with a £2.1bn investment. The investment will see two new decade-long supplier contracts with ABP and Dunbia, who together work with 3,500 M&S Select Farmers to bring British lamb and beef to Foodhalls. The new ten-year contract secures long-term British supply for M&S all year round while protecting exclusivity across its Wagyu Gold, Aberdeen Angus Gold, and Organic ranges as customer demand for beef grows. Aberdeen Angus Gold, launched last year, is an integrated beef standard developed in partnership with farmers using a science-led breeding programme, guaranteeing exceptional quality and high welfare at a 40% lower carbon footprint vs standard beef. Longer term contracts give suppliers the confidence to invest in the latest technology and methods to maintain M&S’s leading quality: Dunbia plan to open new salt drying chambers exclusive to M&S, and ABP will partner with M&S to invest in the latest state of the art equipment used for packaging and cutting meat and streamlined production lines. Alex Freudmann, Managing Director of M&S Food: “M&S Food offers the best quality at great value, and it’s our British farmers who uphold our market-leading welfare standards, and produce food to the quality our customers expect. But farmers face a number of challenges and now more than ever need UK retailers to commit to sourcing from within the UK." "Our long-term commitment to sourcing British fresh lamb and beef, through our partners at ABP and Dunbia, will support longer term investments and security for farmers for years to come.” Trevor, M&S Select Beef Farmer “A decade long agreement sends a strong message in support of British farmers: Long term stability is essential if we’re going to keep improving our businesses and planning for the next generation. M&S has always been a retailer we trust to support producers, and this contract reinforces that commitment in a way that really makes a difference on the ground.” Michael Doran, Managing Director of Dunbia: “Securing this new 10‑year strategic partnership with M&S represents a significant milestone for Dunbia and a strong endorsement of the quality, capability, and commitment of our entire team. This agreement strengthens our ability to support the network of dedicated British farmers who are central to our supply chain." "Their expertise, high welfare standards, and commitment to sustainable farming underpin everything we do. This partnership allows us to deepen that collaboration, invest in their future, and build a resilient, thriving British farming sector for the years ahead.” Kevin Cahill, CEO of ABP UK: “We’re delighted to continue our long-standing partnership with M&S Food, and it is testament to our product quality and commitment to customer service that this will continue for the next decade. This long-term agreement will enable us to invest in the future of the supply chain and provide greater security for our farmer suppliers in the years ahead.” The M&S Plan A For Farming strategy runs to 2030 and is focused on British sourcing, sustainability, high standards, and resilience. The goal is to help farmers feel confident about the future, grow their businesses, and invest, ensuring M&S can continue delivering quality food to millions of families across the UK. M&S is backing Britain as it builds on its long-standing and industry-leading commitment to British farming.

London-based family business Dina Foods supplies an artisan range of Mediterranean flatbreads and luxury confectionery to foodservice operators across the UK, offering versatile, high‑quality products that work across multiple menu formats. Project Director Wilda Haddad said: “Caterers tell us they need reliable shelf life, clear allergen labelling, cost consistency and products that work across multiple menu formats. Our authentic bakery and confectionery lines have been developed with those factors in mind, so they support smoother operations and more predictable margins.” Dina Foods’ bakery range taps directly into key growth trends in foodservice, including the rise of plant based consumption and globally inspired flavour profiles, delivering the operational efficiency, versatility and authentic experience required by operators. Provenance Dina Foods’ authentic Eastern Mediterranean bakery range is rooted in its culinary heritage. The company has its roots in the restaurant trade; its founders opened the UK’s first Lebanese restaurant, Fakhreldine in the 1980s. Wilda Haddad added: “Operators tell us that provenance matters, and some now highlight our story because it gives them a point of difference. Our products are inspired by time-honoured recipes handed down through generations.” Dietary requirements All Dina Foods’ breads are suitable for vegetarians and vegans. “At the menu level, the biggest shift we continue to see is the demand for all-purpose meal solutions, particularly vegetarian and vegan options,” comments Wilda Haddad. “That’s becoming a baseline expectation across restaurants, cafés and food to go.” Growing demand for plant-based eating is reflected in Dina Foods' sales patterns. Year-on-year growth in vegetarian lines has been strong, rising 23% in 2025 as caterers lean into meat-free formats. Innovation Dina Foods has a vibrant new product development programme, engaging with emerging customer trends on platforms such as TikTok while remaining focused on long-term relevance rather than novelty. “Our range stays aligned with consumer expectations while supporting the practical realities of running a busy kitchen,” comments Haddad. Aligned with product range, Dina Foods has targeted investment in clean-label innovation, including sourdough flatbreads, complemented by added-value products, such as seeded pittas and vegetarian deli foods. A recent launch, sourdough khobez under the Dina Foods brand Paninette®, taps into growing consumer interest in sourdough’s perceived gut‑health benefits. Wilda Haddad comments: “In this time of economic pressure, we want to help our customers stand out by delivering high-quality and innovative products. We are always looking at new ideas across our whole business.” Versatility and day part-flexibility Dina Foods range offers total day-part flexibility, giving operators a major commercial advantage. “Products such as our baklawa continue to outperform because they work across multiple occasions, as counter treats, coffee accompaniments, desserts, and even gifting items,” comments Haddad. The same applies to Dina Foods’ flatbreads, which are widely used for wraps, sandwiches, and sharing dishes, offering speedy and consistent solutions. “Our bakery products can move seamlessly from breakfast through to dessert, the breads can be eaten with sweet or savoury toppings or as a meal accompaniment,” says Haddad. Supply efficiency In a market where waste reduction and frequent ordering have been priorities (particularly since Covid) Dina Foods can offer operators the flexibility they require. That has helped it exceed pre-Covid sales volumes and continue to expand its footprint in the catering sector. Haddad comments: “We also supply traditional Eastern Mediterranean deli items such as falafel as well catering sizes of dips such as houmous, and clean label breads, so our range can allow countless combinations to create menu variety at a low cost-per-serving. In current times, where budgets are tight, our Mediterranean Foods provide great high-quality menu solutions." Shelf life remains an operational priority for caterers, and Dina Foods has invested in packaging improvements. This supports more efficient stock management in the catering sector’s tight labour and cost environment. Dina Foods’ bakery range Dina Foods’ traditional Mediterranean bakery range includes wholemeal, white, and seeded flatbreads, wraps and pitta breads, ultra-thin lavash flatbreads, and its versatile, best-selling doubled-layered khobez flatbreads (sold under the Dina Foods brand Paninette®), which can be sliced, used as a wrap or as an alternative to a pizza base. Breads are baked in bespoke stone ovens in the AA+ BRCGS accredited factory. On the confectionery side, indulgence is the order of the day, with high-quality, clean-label ingredients, such as ghee, used as standard. As the leading baklawa producer in the UK, Dina Foods uses authentic recipes passed down through the generations. Its range includes pistachio baklawa, chocolate enrobed and fruit selections such as apricot baklawa. About Dina Foods Dina Foods, established in 199, specialises in authentic, handmade Mediterranean foods, including artisan flatbreads, savouries and confectionery. Dina Foods’ well-equipped manufacturing facilities in Park Royal, London, operate to the highest safety standards. The company holds the highest accreditations for food safety including BRCAA+, IFS Higher Level and Sedex Registered. Its customers include major national food-to-go brands, wholesalers, airlines, and coffee shop groups. Its founders, the three Haddad brothers first came to the UK in the 1970s, opening the first Lebanese restaurant in the country, Fakhreldine at 85 Piccadilly, London.

National painting contractor Bagnalls has been named on the shortlist for the Employer of the Year category at the British Business Awards 2026 – one of the most competitive business awards in the UK. The announcement places Bagnalls among seven other shortlisted organisations in the Employer of the Year category, including Sodexo, Stagecoach and Highland Spring Group. The competition received a record number of more than 400 entries this year, with shortlisted companies independently evaluated across five core pillars: business performance, innovation, workforce and culture, customer impact, and contribution to society and the wider economy. The awards ceremony takes place at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) on 30 April 2026, with up to 2,000 business leaders expected to attend. This year's event features a fireside conversation with Oscar-winning actor and humanitarian George Clooney, a keynote address from Sir Bob Geldof, and co-hosting from Rob Brydon and Elaine C Smith. The ceremony will also raise funds for Social Bite, the UK homelessness charity. Shortlisted businesses also form the inaugural British Business Leaders List, published in partnership with The Times and The Sunday Times, recognising organisations setting the standard for modern enterprise across the UK. With over 150 years in the painting and decorating industry, Bagnalls has built a reputation that extends well beyond the quality of its paintwork. Last year, the company's Community Paintbrush scheme reached more than 49,000 people across the country through charitable painting projects and donations. Alongside this, Bagnalls runs one of the most highly regarded apprenticeship programmes in the sector, with a significant proportion of its current management team having begun their careers at Bagnalls as apprentices. That commitment to growing talent from within was formally recognised last year, when Bagnalls won the Aptem Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Award at the National Apprenticeship and Skills Awards 2025 – beating household names including Tesco and Kier Group to take the national title. The company also received a prestigious Princess Royal Training Award in 2025, in recognition of its apprenticeship and Management Trainee schemes. The commitment to EDI was again recognised at this ceremony, with Bagnalls also taking home an EDI Commendation – one of only seven companies, out of a total 57, to be honoured in this way. Stephen Bagnall, Group Managing Director at Bagnalls, commented: "Being shortlisted for Employer of the Year at the British Business Awards is a huge honour – and one that belongs to every member of our team. Our people are what set Bagnalls apart, and this recognition reflects the culture we have worked hard to build: one that champions apprenticeships, values diversity, rewards hard work and gives individuals the opportunity to build long and rewarding careers." "To be shortlisted alongside businesses of this calibre, in a year that attracted more than 400 entries, tells us we are definitely doing something right! We look forward to representing the painting and decorating industry in Edinburgh on 30 April."

A significant step forward for Cranleigh’s international ambitions, with a new education partnership in Vietnam. We will be working closely with Sunshine Group, one of Vietnam’s biggest and most influential companies, with interests in education, finance, construction and technology. The partnership is the beginning of what we hope will be a long-term project in Vietnam and an exciting new chapter for Cranleigh. The collaboration brings together our heritage and international expertise with Sunshine Group’s local insight and commitment to improving educational outcomes for young people. This will be Cranleigh School’s fourth international venture, alongside those in China and the United Arab Emirates, demonstrating the School’s continued growth and global outlook. Sam Price, Cranleigh Schools Group Head, said: “We are delighted to be entering a new chapter by partnering with Sunshine Group in Vietnam. Our commitment to world-class education will be at the forefront of our partnership, combining our rich history, innovative thinking and our attitude towards education. Starting this journey with Sunshine Group is another opportunity to share Cranleigh’s culture across the world alongside our current schools in Abu Dhabi and China, giving pupils a global perspective and providing exciting opportunities.” Today’s signing sets the foundation for future growth, deeper collaboration and the potential for the development of multiple Cranleigh International schools across Vietnam. Together, we look forward to shaping a new generation of globally minded learners and establishing a lasting educational legacy in the region. Đỗ Văn Tuấn, Project Director, Sunshine Group, said: “This milestone signals the beginning of a broad educational vision for Vietnam. By combining Cranleigh School’s heritage and global expertise with strong local partnership, the ambition is to create a network of schools that will support families across the country and contribute meaningfully to the future of education in the region. We anticipate being able to announce the first school site in June this year.”

Aldi Scotland’s Supermarket Sweep is back for another year, giving shoppers in South Scotland the chance to raise vital funds for Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS). Inspired by the iconic game show, the high-energy challenge is set to bring a buzz to the aisles, offering one lucky DG or TD postcode holder the chance to race through their local Aldi store in South Scotland and fill the trolley with their favourite products. Now in its eleventh year, the initiative has raised over £60,000 for charities across Scotland. First launched in 2016, the Supermarket Sweep invites participants to take part in a five-minute trolley dash, collecting as many items as possible before the clock runs out. Once time is called, the winner takes home their haul, while Aldi matches the total value as a donation to CHAS. Each year, CHAS supports more than 500 babies, children and young people across Scotland with life-shortening conditions, along with their families. In 2026, every penny raised through Aldi’s Supermarket Sweep will go directly to the charity, with £10,000 pledged in support. This April, CHAS launched its £20 million More Than A Hospice appeal, a once in a generation opportunity to transform children’s palliative care across Scotland and redesign how the country cares for children with life shortening conditions and their families. The appeal will fund the crucial rebuilding and refreshing of CHAS’s hospices, alongside the expansion of care in homes, communities and hospitals, giving families real choice over where and how they are supported when they need it most. Residents in South Scotland can apply to take part in the Supermarket Sweep from Monday 27 April - Sunday 10 May. Sandy Mitchell, Regional Managing Director, Aldi Scotland, said: “We are proud to once again be partnering with CHAS, following the success of last year’s Supermarket Sweep campaign. It is always a highlight to bring this initiative to communities across Scotland, and we’re looking forward to giving one lucky South Scotland resident the chance to enjoy a truly unique supermarket experience." “CHAS is a charity very close to our hearts, providing vital support to families across the country. As the Supermarket Sweep returns for 2026, we are pleased to once again raise important funds and awareness for the incredible work they do.” Iain McAndrew, Director of Income Generation and Engagement, CHAS said: “Last year’s partnership with Aldi Scotland was a huge success, with the team going above and beyond to raise vital funds and awareness through its Supermarket Sweep and a range of generous initiatives. That support has had a real impact on the families we care for and means so much to everyone involved." “This year, we have really ambitious plans. Our bold £20 million More Than A Hospice appeal comes at a critical time and will allow CHAS to meet rising pressure on children’s palliative care services by transforming how Scotland cares for its most vulnerable children and families. “Across Scotland, we support babies, children and young people with life-shortening conditions, as well as their families, through a range of services including specialist palliative care, respite stays, emotional support and bereavement care. Every contribution makes a difference, and we are incredibly grateful to Aldi Scotland and everyone taking part for helping us reach more children and families across the country.” Entry is free and customers can apply by emailing their name and chosen store to supermarketsweep@aldi.co.uk before Sunday 10 May. Further details and full T&Cs can be found here. For more information about CHAS and how to support its work, visit here.

The founder of a charity that provides vital support to families with children admitted to hospital has thanked a Hampshire accountancy firm for its help. Charlotte Fairall said she was ‘deeply grateful’ that staff at chartered accountants and business advisors HWB have voted to make Sophie’s Legacy their charity of the year. Founded in memory of Charlotte’s daughter Sophie who died of cancer at age ten, the charity focuses on making the lived experience of hospital better for child patients and their visiting families. Among its activities is the provision of parent packs, containing items such as tea bags, toiletries, cosmetics and phone chargers, to help with bedside times and overnight stays. The charity currently distributes around 50 packs a week to each of 12 hospitals across the south including 13 wards at Southampton General Hospital. HWB will provide a range of support to Sophie’s Legacy this year. As well as hosting and participating in fundraising events, staff aim to gather donations of items and be hands-on by contributing to the making up and delivery of hospital packs. HWB Director Michaela Johns: “We’re keen to offer as much support as we can to such a deserving cause in the community. Sophie’s Legacy is all about helping families locally who have to spend time in hospital with their child.” Charlotte, a social worker and mum-of-three, said: “We are incredibly honoured that HWB has chosen Sophie’s Legacy as its Charity of the Year. Their help will make a real and meaningful difference to the children and their families we work tirelessly to support in hospital." “Sophie’s Legacy was founded in memory of my daughter, Sophie, with the mission of driving vital improvements in paediatric care in hospital. Having HWB stand alongside us in that mission is truly uplifting, and we are deeply grateful for their commitment.” Charlotte lost Sophie, her second of three daughters, to an aggressive childhood cancer in 2021, a year after an initial diagnosis that prompted intensive chemotherapy and weeks of radiotherapy. The experience prompted her to launch Sophie’s Legacy as a charity dedicated to fixing gaps in family support at hospital that Sophie herself had identified. As well as distributing packs, Sophie’s Legacy helps families with transport costs, funds therapeutic art sessions for children in hospital and campaigns to reshape hospital care and policy so it is more aligned with people’s lived experience. HWB’s previous charities of the year include Dementia Support Hampshire & Isle of Wight, Wessex Cancer Trust, Mountbatten Hampshire and Imagine This, previously the Murray Parish Trust. For more information on Sophie’s Legacy, visit here. Chartered accountants HWB, headquartered in Chandler’s Ford near Southampton, provides business and tax advice. Photo: From left: HWB colleagues Emma Kemp, Marketing Executive, Susan Wooding, Tax Compliance Manager and Liz Torkington, Office Administrator, with volunteers from Sophie’s Legacy Dennis Dawes and John Miller.

A leading Dorset funeral director has welcomed government plans to increase regulation of the industry. Health Secretary Wes Streeting has said the Department of Health and Social Care will be ‘taking the lead’ in the changes. It follows several scandals including two in Hampshire and one in Hull that saw an unscrupulous funeral director hoard bodies and ashes. Nick Douch, managing director of Douch Family Funeral Directors that runs seven branches in Dorset, said he agreed that more should be done to stop ‘rip off providers’, as Streeting described them. Nick added: “The majority of funeral directors are honest and provide a professional service. But there are a minority who give everybody else a bad name and will rip people off and provide an extremely unprofessional service." “These behaviours are bad enough in other industries, but dealing with those mourning the loss of a loved one gives funeral directors a much bigger responsibility. People at this time are vulnerable and more easily taken advantage of and it is greatly upsetting to see funeral directors do exactly this." “Therefore I welcome any regulations that prevent it from happening – those of us who act professionally need have nothing to fear. It will be interesting to see what regulation is brought forward and how it will be enforced.” Streeting said funeral regulation in England had been ‘all over the place’ and ‘non-existent’ in some areas. He added: "We will be taking a lead in the Department of Health and Social Care of working across government to make sure we've got effective funeral legislation in place." It follows the case of Robert Bush in Hull who will be sentenced in July after he admitted hoarding 30 bodies, half a tonne of human ashes and fraudulently running his business. In Hampshire, two undertakers were jailed for four years for preventing a lawful and decent burial, causing a public nuisance by keeping bodies in unrefrigerated conditions and fraudulent trading. In Leeds, a funeral director was banned from NHS maternity wards and mortuaries after keeping babies' bodies at her home. Nick added: “We have already been working closely with local authorities in Dorset, having been selected as a pilot ‘champion’ to help shape what good inspection standards should look like." “That kind of collaboration is important. Any regulation needs to be practical, consistent and focused on maintaining dignity and proper care for the deceased, while giving families confidence in the services they receive." “Our family business has been operating for more than a century, our reputation is everything and we work incredibly hard to provide the best possible service.” Douch Family Funeral Directors runs branches in Wimborne, Ferndown, Corfe Mullen, Parkstone, Blandford, Wareham and Swanage. It also runs an award-winning funeral plan. Douch Family Funeral Directors have been helping families with funeral arrangements for over 100 years. Branches include Douch & Small, A E Jolliffe & Son, Albert Marsh, James Smith, Ives & Shand and Lesley Shand Funeral Service. They’re based in Wimborne, Ferndown, Wareham, Poole, Swanage, Blandford and Corfe Mullen.

A restaurant manager from a Lake District spa resort has turned his passion for the great outdoors into a new role, having successfully completed an intensive winter skills course. Pav Moskala from Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa travelled to the Cairngorms to take part in the specialist course thanks to the English Lakes Hotels Personal Development Fund, which helps the hotel group’s employees to develop new skills. The course has allowed Pav to take on an additional role as the spa resort’s new walking guide, sharing his love and knowledge of the Lakeland fells while taking guests on walks and helping them explore the spectacular landscapes surrounding the venue. Pav’s course with Glenmore Lodge was designed to teach him the essential techniques required for safer travel in the mountains. It provided in-depth and practical knowledge and experience of changing weather conditions in the fells and highlands. The training covered key skills including navigation techniques in low visibility conditions using a map and compass, equipment selection and route planning, avalanche awareness, ice-axe use and crampon techniques, and emergency procedures such as the use of group shelters. Pav, who helps run the Blue Smoke restaurant at the spa resort, explains: “The Cairngorms was the perfect base for developing the practical and safety skills I need for guiding walks, especially in terms of assessing conditions and planning accordingly. It’s strengthened my technical abilities and given me more confidence and knowledge." "It was also inspiring to be under the wing of some incredible instructors who showed the invaluable ability to stay calm in such harsh conditions while leading our group. It’s reinforced my enthusiasm for sharing the outdoors with others. The discipline required for such an intense 5-day course was also immensely rewarding." “I’m very grateful for the opportunity and excited to use what I’ve learned to help our guests discover the amazing walks around Low Wood Bay and Windermere.” Michael Kay, group operations director at English Lakes Hotels Resorts & Venues, says: “Our personal development fund actively supports our employees’ career progression and allows them to pursue training opportunities that enhance both their personal interests and their professional roles within the business." “Pav’s course was 95% funded after he provided a detailed business case to support his request for additional skills support. It’s opened a new door for Pav as our new Low Wood Bay walking guide, leading small groups on local walks so that they can better appreciate the fantastic surroundings and learn more about the Lake District National Park.” Subject to assessment and line manager agreement, training or courses underwritten by the English Lakes Hotels Personal Development Fund can be taken within most disciplines. Employees let their manager and the group operations director know what the course is, its cost and why they wish to complete it. Michael Kay adds: “We work with applicants to identify training programmes or courses across a wide range of disciplines. By investing in our teams’ development, we aim to help people reach their potential and move forward in their careers. The initiative also contributes to creating a stronger, more balanced working life for all employees." “We hope Pav’s passion for the outdoors and his new winter skills will help create memorable guided walking experiences for visitors to Low Wood Bay.” Pav’s walks take place on Thursday and Saturday mornings and are for guests at the spa resort who want to explore the fells with some guided company. For further information about new job roles at English Lakes Hotels, visit here.

Acclaimed broadcaster and bestselling author Lorraine Kelly will appear in Cobham for an exclusive author event to celebrate the release of her new novel, The Island Secret. Joining her on stage for a special “in conversation” event will be internationally bestselling author Adele Parks, promising an evening of lively discussion, insight, and inspiration. The Island Secret is Lorraine Kelly’s latest work of fiction, weaving an evocative story of love, identity, and hidden pasts set against a vividly drawn backdrop. With her trademark warmth and storytelling charm, Kelly brings to life a narrative that explores the complexities of relationships and the power of long-buried secrets. In this unique event, Adele Parks—renowned for her gripping and emotionally intelligent novels—will interview Lorraine Kelly about the creative process behind The Island Secret, her journey as a writer, and the themes that shape her work. The evening will also include an audience Q&A, offering attendees the chance to engage directly with both authors. Guests will have the opportunity to purchase copies of The Island Secret on the night, followed by a book signing. Event Details: Location: St Andrew’s Church Rooms, Church Street, Cobham, Surrey, KT11 3EJ Date: Monday 15th June 2026 Time: 6pm Tickets are expected to sell quickly, and early booking is strongly advised. Visit here. This special literary evening is set to be a highlight for readers, offering a rare chance to see two celebrated authors share the stage in an intimate and engaging setting. About the Authors Lorraine Kelly is one of the UK’s most beloved television presenters and a bestselling author whose novels have captivated readers with their warmth and emotional depth. Adele Parks is an internationally bestselling author known for her compelling contemporary fiction, exploring relationships, family dynamics, and psychological intrigue.

Three in 10 business owners do not have a pension independent of their business, according to Rathbones Group, one of the UK’s leading wealth and asset management firms, warning that millions may be taking unnecessary risks with their future finances. Rathbones polled 3,092 UK adults, including almost 10% business owners, and also found that 44% do not even hold an ISA of any kind. The vast majority (95%) have money in savings accounts and/or Premium Bonds, suggesting many are prioritising short term cash over long-term planning. Faye Church, Senior Financial Planning Director at Rathbones, based in Guildford, says: “We often meet owners of successful businesses who see their company as their retirement plan and prioritise reinvesting back into the business over pension saving. That’s often driven by a desire to grow the business, and the belief that a future sale will ultimately take care of retirement. But relying on a business alone to fund later life is a risky strategy." “The future is unpredictable. Small businesses can be hit by economic shocks, supply chain disruption, losing customers or a crisis no one sees coming. That makes it hard to know what your business will be worth when you eventually step back – or even whether you’ll be able to sell it at all." “Without a pension, you could end up with far less to live on than planned, and even a successful sale may still fall short of funding the lifestyle you want in retirement.” Looking specifically at entrepreneurs, almost a quarter (24%) of respondents said they do not have a pension. More than a third (36%) said they do not have an ISA, although 95% do hold savings and/or Premium Bonds. Gordon Lawrie, Senior Investment Director and Head of Edinburgh Office at Rathbones says: “From our dealings with early-stage businesses, there are often many competing financial pressures, from irregular cash flow and reinvesting in the company to paying down borrowing or covering personal expenses,” “But for limited company owners, contributing to a pension can be one of the most tax efficient ways to extract money from the business and invest for the future.” Why pensions are still powerful for business owners Faye Church says: It’s common for business owners to prioritise tax efficient income today, typically taking a small salary within the personal allowance and the rest as dividends. That approach can create the false impression that pensions aren’t worthwhile, particularly if your salary sits below the income tax threshold. In reality, pensions can be one of the most tax efficient ways for business owners to invest for the future. Tax relief on personal pension contributions When you make a personal contribution to a pension, the government automatically adds basic rate tax relief. For every £100 you contribute, HMRC tops it up by £25. Higher and additional rate taxpayers can also claim further tax relief through self-assessment. Employer contributions from your limited company Limited company owners can make employer pension contributions directly from the business rather than paying themselves and contributing personally. These payments are made from pre tax profits and do not attract National Insurance. With employer NI set at 15% from 2026/27, this can represent a significant saving compared with taking the same amount as salary. Reducing your corporation tax bill Employer pension contributions are treated as an allowable business expense and can be offset against a company’s Corporation Tax bill. Depending on the rate paid, this could reduce Corporation Tax by up to 25%, making pensions one of the most tax efficient ways to extract profits from a business. Higher limits and more flexibility Business owners can currently contribute up to £60,000 a year into a pension. The removal of the Lifetime Allowance also means it’s now possible to build a larger pension pot without the risk of additional tax charges. Where a spouse is involved in the business, making pension contributions for them can further improve household tax efficiency. Why professional advice matters Pensions can be highly tax efficient for business owners, but the rules are complex and what works best depends on income, profits and long-term goals. Allowances and tax treatments can change, and mistakes can be costly. Regulated financial advice can help ensure pension contributions are structured efficiently and support wider retirement and income plans.