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- England Hockey Extends Notts Sport Partnership Until 2029
Notts Sport has announced the renewal of its long-standing partnership with England Hockey, continuing a collaboration that has supported the development of hockey facilities across the country for more than 14 years. As the only official facilities partner of England and GB Hockey, the renewed agreement will run until January 2029. Since the partnership began in 2012, Notts Sport has worked alongside England Hockey to provide clubs, schools and facility providers with specialist technical advice and independent guidance, supporting the planning, design and development of hockey facilities nationwide. The renewed partnership aligns with the launch of England Hockey’s Pitch Together Fund and reflects a shared ambition to improve facility quality, increase participation and support long-term sustainability across the sport. As part of the continued collaboration, Notts Sport will also once again sponsor the Boys’ and Girls’ School Championships, England Hockey’s flagship national school competitions involving hundreds of schools and thousands of young players from across the country each year. Rich Beer, Chief Executive of England Hockey, said: “Notts Sport renewing their partnership with England Hockey is a testament to the relationship we have with them and we are thrilled to have them back on board. As one of our most long-standing partners they have been a loyal and trusted partner for us for the last 14 years. Now with the new Pitch Together Fund in place we are looking forward to working together to help develop and improve more facilities that provide better places to play.” Duncan Bennett, CEO of Notts Sport, added: “We are delighted to extend our partnership with England Hockey which began back in 2012. Over that now 14-year period, the initial concept of offering clubs advice and support on their facilities has grown into a close working relationship at all levels of the sport." "Whilst the support we provide to England Hockey has grown and developed immensely since 2012, the original intention of offering free support and advice to clubs, schools and hockey players of all levels continues to be the core service and focus for us." "At a time where we are all increasingly aware of sustainability, environmental impacts, recycling and the use of plastics, it is clear that the specialist advice, services and support Notts Sport offer means that sustainable design has a key role to play in ensuring hockey is at the forefront of innovation and best practice.” The renewed partnership will help deliver tangible benefits for the hockey community by improving the quality and sustainability of facilities nationwide. By combining technical expertise, independent guidance and a shared commitment to innovation, Notts Sport and England Hockey aim to create better places to play, increase participation and ensure the sport continues to thrive at every level.
- HMG Paints Support For National Apprenticeship Week 2026
As National Apprenticeship Week reaches its 19th year, HMG Paints is demonstrating its continued commitment to workforce development within the sector through a showcase of the various development pathways found within apprenticeships in the business. Apprenticeships play a crucial role in the long-term development strategy of the HMG, with the development of technical expertise and industry knowledge through on-the-job learning being fully supported by leaders within the business, many of whom started their HMG careers as apprentices. Apprenticeships have played a key role for all employees looking to further their education and have proved to be great for those who want to advance in their career within HMG, with apprenticeship pathways supporting both early-career development and long-term advancement into more senior and specialist roles across the business. HMG has a long history of developing its own staff and offers a range of career development opportunities which are taken up by employees, around 40% of employees have taken part in external training courses during their time at HMG. In recent years, participation in apprenticeship and T-Level programs has continued to grow, with a significant number of employees participating in structured learning pathways since 2023. These programs span a wide range of pathways across the business, in both technical and non-technical roles. A member of staff who took a non-technical apprentice route was Head of People and Culture Melissa Strowbridge who undertook a Degree Level Apprenticeship in Business Management. Speaking on her time as an apprentice, completing her Melissa said: “My apprenticeship served me with an excellent launchpad for my career. It was more than just a qualification and equipped me with skills both inside and outside the classroom, which laid the foundations for growth. HMG have always been committed to supporting both me and my learning, allowing me to progress in my career, showing that HMG are a company that truly invests in its people.” Continuing with the theme of degree apprenticeships, another example can be seen through HMG’s Product Manager Shannon Williams, who has progressed into her role following the completion of a Degree Apprenticeship. "The Degree Apprenticeship helped to develop my skills and knowledge of business through a wide range of subjects and management processes. These skills have helped with my new role as Product Manager, and HMG provided me with the support and time needed throughout to enable me to complete the degree.” “The apprenticeship helped me gain a range of new skills have made a tangible impact on the business. My career journey from Print Room Assistant to Product Manager is a story of success enabled by apprenticeships. It is a demonstration on how the program has allowed me to step into a leadership role with the exact expertise our team needed to grow." The business also continues to support many of their current apprentices that work across multiple departments within the business. One such example is HMG’s Marketing Executive Apprentice Joshua Hibbert, who is currently gaining hands-on-experience across a wide range of marketing activities at HMG through his apprenticeship program. “The chance to gain experience through a marketing-focused apprenticeship at HMG has been great. This role has helped to provide me with valuable insight into both the technical and creative sides of marketing in the manufacturing sector” said Josh, speaking on his apprenticeship. “The guidance I have received from the team at HMG has also played a key role in my development, giving me the confidence to take on new challenges within my field and continue to grow in a fast-paced, manufacturing-led environment.” HMG Paints has also seen a number of employees recently complete their apprenticeship programmes and progress into more advanced roles. One example of this is Lewis Whalen, who has completed his CIMA Level 7 Professional Accounting Technician qualification. “My apprenticeship has played a key role in developing me as an accountant by allowing me to combine practical, hands-on experience with structured learning” said Lewis “My understanding of accounting principles has helped me advance in my career, creating new opportunities and greater responsibilities. “ In addition to apprenticeships, HMG has also continued to invest into T-Level programmes, recognising the importance in developing early technical capability and supporting progression into specialist roles within the business. One such instance is Luis Beaumont, who completed a Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship and was recently nominated for Apprentice of the Year at the 2025 British Coating Federation Awards. Speaking on his T-Level Apprenticeship, Luis commented: “My laboratory technician apprenticeship laid the foundation for my problem-solving skills and significantly boosted my confidence in working accurately and efficiently. It taught me discipline and a strong respect for quality standards, making the transition into a quality analyst role a natural progression.” This National Apprenticeship week, HMG is proud to be celebrating the various apprentices from across the business and highlighting the long-term value that is created through apprenticeship and training programs. From production and technical roles to office-based roles, apprentices and trainees continue to play a key role into the ongoing success of HMG Paints. You can see more about HMG and their apprentices during National Apprenticeship Week on HMG’s social media channels including Linkedin and Instagram If you require further information on the press release, please contact: Josh Hibbert HMG Paints / marketing@hmgpaint.com
- MSP Capital Appoints A New Director Of Property Services
Property finance lender MSP Capital has welcomed industry expert Ben Arnold as Director of Property Services, the latest move in a £750 million loan book strategy. Ben brings more than 25 years’ experience across residential and commercial property, valuation, development land and planning throughout the south of England. After qualifying as a chartered surveyor in 2005, he joined Savills, progressing to the role of Development Director and head of its south coast valuation team, advising on residential-led development and valuation projects. In 2017, he took up the role of Land and Planning Director at Hampshire and Dorset housebuilder Pennyfarthing Homes. During eight years there, Ben was responsible for the acquisition and promotion of more than 3,000 strategic land plots. He secured planning approvals for 1,885 new homes, including 650 affordable dwellings, and led the delivery of UK’s first strategic phosphate mitigation scheme. On his move to MSP Capital, Ben said: “I’ll be utilising my past experiences in a range of property roles to lead and support the team and our customers to help deliver their projects to a successful conclusion.” Welcoming Ben, MSP Capital’s CEO Leigh Bartlett said: “A highly experienced property professional, Ben brings extensive knowledge in development, planning and valuation. His skills and insight will help strengthen our relationship-led lending and the benefits we bring to our clients through robust, flexible lending solutions.” Ben’s appointment follows MSP Capital’s launch of a package of lower rates on both development and bridging loans enabled by a landmark £350 million in new funding lines. The facility, involving investment partners J.P. Morgan and Pollen Street Capital, is designed to strengthen scope for a loan book worth £750 million or more over the next five years.
- Hendy Foundation Strengthens Board With New Appointments
Hendy Foundation, the charitable organisation affiliated with the family-run Hendy car dealer network, has expanded its Board of Trustees, welcoming new members to maximise its fundraising efforts in support of local projects, people, events and charitable organisations. The new trustees bring a wide range of expertise, strengthening the Board in areas including business partnerships, charity engagement, communications, finance and fundraising. Following its latest round of funding in late 2025, the Foundation awarded grants totalling more than £61,000 to support over 50 non-profit organisations. With a fundraising target of £90,000 set for 2026, achieving this goal would take the total amount donated by the Foundation since its launch in 2018 to more than £500,000. Joining the Board as Business Relationship Trustee is Simon Palmer, who worked at Hendy Group for over 40 years before retiring in 2025. Simon will focus on developing and maintaining business and supplier partnership fundraising. He is joined in this role by Kayleigh Smith, Group Procurement Manager at Hendy Group, who will work alongside Simon to oversee these business fundraising initiatives. Kevin Fisher, Process Engagement Lead at Hendy Group, has been appointed Charity Relationship Trustee and will support ongoing relationships with charities that have received grant funding from the Foundation. Claire Bradley has also been appointed Charity Relationship Trustee, working alongside Kevin Fisher. Claire works within Hendy Group as a Talent and Resourcing Partner. Ruby Barrett joins the Board as Social Media Trustee, supporting the promotion of the Foundation’s work to colleagues, customers and business partners. From January 2026, Tim Porter, who has been recruited externally, has taken on the role of Finance Support Trustee, assisting the Treasurer with due diligence and financial oversight. Lucy Thornton joins as a General Trustee, bringing experience in events and fundraising from her existing charitable experience, whilst working within Hendy Group as Group Reward and Payroll Manager. Rebecca Hendy, one of the founding trustees, will continue as Chairperson of Hendy Foundation, retaining responsibility for the Foundation’s leadership and strategic direction. Christine Drew remains Treasurer and enters her fifth year in the role, continuing to oversee financial governance and stewardship. Mike Weatherston has been appointed Vice Chairperson and Colleague Relationship Trustee. Having previously served as a trustee with a general remit, Mike now holds a defined role focused on colleague engagement across the Hendy Group. Rebecca Hendy, Chairperson of Hendy Foundation, said: “The appointment of new trustees strengthens the Board, bringing invaluable skills and experience. The refreshed team will support our ambition to grow the Foundation’s reach and ensure we can continue to make a meaningful difference." "With our new Board in place, we have set ourselves an ambitious fundraising target of £90,000 in 2026, which would mean we will have raised over half a million pounds and supported more than 400 local charities and community projects since 2018.” For more information, visit here .
- Perthshire Food & Drink Business Strengthens Team With Business Gateway
A Perthshire-based food and drink training business has strengthened its internal operations and embraced new digital tools after receiving tailored growth support from Business Gateway. Craft Skills Scotland, operational for over 50 years, is a specialist training provider delivering on-the-job training and Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) including Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs) to employees across the food and drink industry – including cafes and restaurants, farm shops, butchers, breweries, distilleries and even ice cream parlours. The organisation was previously known as Scottish Meat Training. The organisation supports learners to work towards Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications, helping businesses raise standards, improve food safety and build a skilled, confident workforce. Its programmes focus on equipping people with the confidence, knowledge and practical ability needed to succeed in a fast-moving and highly regulated sector. All MAs delivered through Craft Skills Scotland are available to all age groups and abilities including new and existing staff, helping employers invest in staff development without them leaving the workplace. As a growing business, Craft Skills Scotland was keen to take a step back and review how it operated internally to ensure it was well positioned for future growth. Working with Business Gateway, the business received one-to-one support from adviser Andrew Webster, alongside access to a Skills for Growth analysis. This process focused on understanding staff strengths, identifying development opportunities and ensuring the whole team had a voice in shaping the business’s future. The team was keen to diversify after previously having a focus on butchers. Business Gateway supported them with opportunities to grow the business by introducing them to other industries and supporting the growth. Alongside this, Craft Skills Scotland accessed specialist marketing and social media support, as well as signposting to external digital training, including courses on tools such as ChatGPT. Thanks to Business Gateway, the team is welcoming two marketing interns in January who will help share the business more widely. The business was also introduced to wider funding opportunities, including the Tay Cities Fund, opening up new ideas and potential routes for development. The impact has been wide-ranging. By listening more closely to staff and using their experience to inform decision-making, the business has made practical improvements to how it works day to day, from rethinking how meeting spaces are used, to creating stronger, more consistent social media content using tools like Canva. The team has also begun using digital tools to support everyday tasks, improving efficiency and confidence across the business. Claire Simpson, Training Manager at Craft Skills Scotland, said: “The support from Business Gateway has been incredibly valuable. The Skills for Growth work helped us better understand our team and how we can use everyone’s strengths more effectively. It’s encouraged a more collaborative approach and given us the confidence to make changes that will benefit the business in the long term." "The team also helped us move into different industries and diversify a 50 year old business, which has been a fantastic success and allowed us to provide more training opportunities. We now have the tools, insight and confidence to keep building on this work as demand for our training continues to grow.” Andrew Webster, Business Gateway adviser, said: “Craft Skills Scotland provides an essential service to Scotland’s food and drink industry, supporting both businesses and employees to develop the skills they need to succeed. Claire and her team have been very open to new ideas and have engaged fully with the support available. It’s been great to see how that’s translated into practical improvements that will support the future growth of the business.” To find out more about Business Gateway and how they can help your business grow and succeed, visit here .
- Aldi Scotland Sports Fund Reaches £500,000 Milestone
Aldi Scotland has marked a major milestone for its Scottish Sport Fund, reaching £500,000 in donations after ten years of supporting grassroots sports clubs across the country. Since launching the Scottish Sport Fund in 2016, Aldi Scotland has committed £50,000 each year to help individuals of all ages and abilities get involved in sport within their local communities. Over the past decade, the initiative has supported more than 650 clubs across Scotland, from grassroots football and curling to rowing, swimming and tennis, helping to improve access to sport and encourage active lifestyles. Clubs supported through the fund span the length and breadth of the country, from Annan Athletic Ladies Football Club in the south to Orkney Rowing Club in the north. Funding has helped organisations invest in vital equipment, coaching, facilities and kit, enabling them to welcome more participants and continue delivering opportunities within their communities. Aldi has also announced that its 2026 Scottish Sport Fund will launch this spring, as Scotland gears up for a landmark year of sport. With the men’s national football team heading to the World Cup for the first time since 1998, Glasgow set to host the Commonwealth Games and a packed calendar of major sporting events and competitions, the fund will continue to support and nurture the next generation of sporting talent. Sandy Mitchell, Regional Managing Director, Aldi Scotland, said: “Reaching £500,000 in donations is a proud moment for everyone involved in the Scottish Sport Fund. Over the past decade, we have seen first-hand the difference this funding can make to clubs and communities right across Scotland." “Across the breadth of Scotland, the fund has helped hundreds of clubs provide opportunities for people to enjoy and benefit from sport. As the country looks ahead to an exciting year of major sporting moments, we remain committed to supporting grassroots sport and helping inspire the next generation to get active and follow their sporting ambitions.”
- More Than 1,000 Balloons Billow Above Historic City Pub
A spectacular display of more than 1,000 balloons floating above Farringdon marked the reopening of historic City pub The Hoop and Grapes . The eye-catching launch transformed the five-storey building into a real-life version of the house from Disney’s Up, celebrating the long-awaited return of one of the area’s most distinctive pubs. Independent family brewer and pub company Shepherd Neame has invested £1.8 million in restoring the Grade II-listed landmark, which had been closed since 2019 during redevelopment of the surrounding area. The renewed pub now offers three distinct experiences. The ground floor retains the character of a classic London pub, opening onto a courtyard terrace. Upstairs, customers can unwind in the relaxed first-floor Terrace Bar, or retreat to the intimate Parson’s Parlour at the top of the building, ideal for private dining and gatherings. The space features a striking black lacquered self-playing piano, along with a darts board and games table. Located just minutes from Fleet Street, The Hoop and Grapes dates back to 1721. Built on land that once formed part of St Bride’s Church burial ground, the pub is famously associated with illicit ‘Fleet Marriages’ linked to nearby Fleet Prison. Its colourful past is reflected in a bespoke swing sign depicting a clandestine wedding scene, alongside hand-painted external signwriting that enhances the restored façade. Throughout the refurbishment, traditional craftsmanship has been prioritised. Highlights include a hand-painted ceiling mural in the first-floor bar and handcrafted stained-glass panelling across the back of the ground-floor bar. The décor also celebrates the shared heritage of the pub and Shepherd Neame, with quirky historic news articles about Britain’s oldest brewer displayed near the bathrooms. Sustainability was also a key focus during the refurbishment, with energy-efficient fridges, smart cellar technology, and LED lighting installed throughout. The pub is led by General Manager Phil McAree, whose relationship with Shepherd Neame spans more than 20 years, including managing the Coach & Horses in Mayfair and the Cock & Woolpack in Bank. Working alongside new Head Chef Aleksandrs Voroncovs, Phil has helped develop a distinctive food offer centred on locally sourced, seasonal produce and relaxed, shareable dishes. Oysters are a speciality, served freshly shucked or grilled in the pub’s take on Oysters Rockefeller. Small plates include miso-glazed aubergine with sweet tahini yoghurt, burrata, and grilled lamb koftas with smoky baba ganoush, while larger dishes range from Whitstable Bay beer-battered haddock and chips to tandoori chicken skewers and a 5oz grilled sirloin with Parmesan and garlic butter. The extensive drinks offer features Shepherd Neame’s award-winning Kentish ales and lagers, premium English wines - including from Champagne Taittinger’s Domaine Evremond vineyard in Kent - and a curated cocktail list. The reopening is part of Shepherd Neame’s ongoing investment in its premium London estate, following major refurbishments at The Tom Cribb, The Westminster Arms, The White Horse and Bower, and the acquisition of the Bishops Finger in Smithfield. Operations Manager Ryan Torrie said: “Seeing more than 1,000 balloons billow above the Hoop and Grapes was a truly magical moment - a joyful way to mark the return of a pub with such a remarkable history." "We’ve worked hard to create a space that showcases the building’s heritage while offering a contemporary, welcoming experience, and the response from our team and customers has been incredible. The energy and excitement in Farringdon on opening day really reflected the care and creativity that has gone into this transformation. We’re thrilled to welcome guests back to enjoy this special place for years to come."
- Why Business Rates Discount For Pubs Must Be The Start Of Hospitality Support
Property consultancy Vail Williams has welcomed a government move to help beleaguered public houses by offering a discount on business rates. The support package means that pubs – and music venues – will be given a 15% discount on their business rates bills from April, with no increases for two years. The move will be worth £1,650 for the average pub in 2026-27, according to Treasury Minister Dan Tomlinson. It will cost the government an estimated £80m in its first year alone, with subsequent years still to be assessed. The policy change comes as government figures show an estimated 7,000 pubs to have closed since 2010 – a 15% reduction. UK Hospitality has warned that hotels, restaurants and other businesses in the sector are also at risk, calling for the support package to be widened. Vail Williams partner and head of business rates Adam Barnfield said: “While any support to help our pubs stay afloat is to be welcomed, this package has been described as a ‘sticking plaster’ which would only delay the pain. I’m somewhat surprised that other hospitality businesses were not included but the government has to draw the line somewhere." “We also have to ask the question as to whether a 15% discount in business rates will amount to much at a time when landlords are facing increasing financial pressures with higher wages, suppliers’ costs and cautious customer spending hitting profit margins." “There is also a fine line to tread between increasing the price of a pint to cover costs without driving customers to supermarkets to have a cheaper drink at home." “Costs are still likely to rise for the vast majority of pubs, meaning this support will have a somewhat limited impact, but we expect fewer landlords will be calling last orders for the final time.” Vail Williams’ business development executive John Bicknell added that the government’s review into how pubs are valued ahead of the 2029 revaluation would be crucial and he urged that the industry should be widely consulted. “This spring, the Government will also be consulting on whether there should be a further loosening of planning rules to benefit pubs such as, as has been mentioned, allowing the addition of new guest rooms or main room expansion without needing planning consent." “Whatever happens, we are convinced that the pub is as integral to British life as fish and chips, the Royal Family and the pastime of queuing, and we must do all we can to safeguard this national institution – as well as other crucial hospitality venues.”
- Golfing Prodigy Luc Takes On The World
A precocious golfing youngster from Broadstone Middle School has qualified for two world championships this year. Luc Taylor recently travelled to New Zealand and won the US Kids New Zealand Under 12 Golf Championship. He impressed at the spectacular Windross Farms Golf Course in Auckland – completing two rounds of 70, finishing 4-under par. The victory means Luc, who has a handicap of five, has secured an automatic invitation to the US Kids World Championships at hallowed Pinehurst, North Carolina, this July. Before that, he will take part in the Daily Mail World Junior Golf Championships at Villa Padierna in Malaga, Spain, at the end of this month. Dad Andy said: “Luc was born in Poole then we returned to New Zealand where I’m from and he started playing golf when he was about seven. He just loves hitting balls and when he was 11 we came back to the UK and moved to Broadstone so we could be near the golf club. He goes there every day after school." “He qualified for the Daily Mail Worlds through competing on the British Junior Golf Tour. And by winning the event in New Zealand he qualified for the US Kids Golf world championships. He will also play in the Uswing Mojing Worlds in the US, a tournament that Tiger Woods won a number of times. The school has been extremely supportive and this enables us to give Luc the best chance of chasing his dream.” Jade Palmer Head of School at Broadstone Middle said: “We are all extremely proud of Luc who plays in a number of our sports teams. We believe extra-curricular activities are really important and always encourage our students to do as much as they can and sport is something that provides invaluable lessons.” Broadstone Middle and First Schools are part of Southern Education Trust (SET).
- Hendy Group Recognised As A Top UK Employer For Apprentices
Hendy Group is starting 2026 on a high after securing a top 20 position in the national Family Business Apprentice Employers Report 2025, underscoring its continued commitment to nurturing future talent. Published by Family Business United, the report highlights family businesses making a significant contribution to the UK’s apprenticeship landscape. Last year, Hendy welcomed 15 new apprentices, bringing the total to 38 apprentices currently undergoing training across the family-run business. Hendy also celebrated the graduation of six apprentices from the previous cohort, including two who achieved distinctions. All six were offered and accepted permanent full-time technician roles across Hendy Group. The process of bringing on new apprentices continues unabated. Hendy is always looking for talented people to join the Group. People who are interested in apprenticeship opportunities within the Group and are keen to be part of an innovative and exciting organisation, visit here . Nathan Dyson, Apprentice at Hendy Group, says: “Completing my apprenticeship with Hendy has allowed me to develop my skills and confidence to be able to communicate and build my professional network in the motor trade. Hendy has guided me to perform at my best and allowed me to progress on to the next stage in my career after qualifying with distinctions.” Structured training and a clear career pathway Hendy’s apprentice programme provides one-to-one mentoring, manufacturer-led college training and ongoing support from dedicated College Coaches, Trainers and Apprentice Ambassadors, who help guide new apprentices throughout their apprenticeship journey. The programme can take from one to three years, depending on the chosen speciality. Recruitment has increased following a successful year for Hendy Group in 2025, which now represents 25 automotive brands and has continued to expand its footprint across the South and South West through major site developments. Paul Hendy, CEO at Hendy Group, commented: “Being recognised as one of the UK’s top family-business apprentice employers is a great acknowledgement of the work that so many Hendy colleagues put into developing future talent. Our apprentices play an important role in the business, and it is a privilege to see each one grow into their role and give them a strong start in a dynamic, ever-evolving industry.” Tags: Hendy Group Apprenticeships News
- Public Invited To Take A Seat On Unique JCB Listening Bench
JCB apprentices have created a unique 80th anniversary project at the company’s World Headquarters that invites the public to tune into its past, present, and future. The team of 15 young engineering, manufacturing and business apprentices designed the innovative ‘listening bench’ for the grounds of the company’s Rocester factory – giving employees, visitors, and the local community the chance to sit, relax and hear JCB’s story. The bench, designed in the style of Joseph Cyril Bamford’s first ever product - a tipping trailer made out of wartime scrap - has built-in speakers which play recordings at the push of a button, capturing the company’s remarkable story over the past eight decades. JCB Chairman Anthony Bamford officially unveiled the listening bench and pressed the button to introduce a recording of his father speaking 30 years ago on the company’s 50th anniversary. Lord Bamford said: “It’s a real thrill to unveil this listening bench and I hope people will enjoy sitting here and listening to stories about JCB. What I think is so clever is the way that our apprentices have integrated speakers into the bench and when I pressed the button, who should be speaking but my father, which was very emotional to hear.” Over ten weeks, a team of engineering, manufacturing, craft, commercial, finance and marketing apprentices were challenged to design and build the bench with a focus on sustainability, using surplus materials from production lines to keep the project as close to carbon neutral as possible. Project leader and Business Administration Apprentice Lana Hockaday, 21, said: “This project has really helped us develop a wide range of skills - from communication and teamwork to organisation and problem-solving." "For many of us, it was our first time taking on something of this scale, so it was a great opportunity to build confidence and experience working across different departments and sites. Seeing it all come together and hearing the finished audio playing from the first bench was an amazing moment.”
- Store & Secure To Expand
A Poole storage facility is investing more than £500,000 to increase its footprint by a third. Store & Secure in Hamworthy opened four years ago and has been so successful it applied for permission to expand. It is now preparing the site so work can begin on extending the premises at the back, providing hundreds more units. The family-owned business is run by ‘storage sisters’ Lucy and Sophie Maidman and the facility is named Joyce House after their late mother. Lucy said: “We opened four years ago and the 40,000sqft included hundreds of storage units of varying sizes as well as serviced offices. We are in the fortunate position of requiring more units and have been able to secure permission to increase the facility by around 30 per cent." “Already the new units which will be at the back of the facility are being allocated. We cater for domestic and commercial clients and we have many online retailers who store their stock with us." "We take in deliveries for them and it enables them to have a second income – it’s a trend that began during the pandemic." “Being a family business we really do focus on excellence of service and people are always welcome to pop in for a cup of tea – you can’t miss the facility because it’s bright yellow and next to Lidl.” Photo: Kavan Wood of Store & Secure











