Following a transformation of its foodhall, M&S at Swindon’s Orbital Shopping Park has today opened its brand-new Coffee Shop. Customers will find a fresh, modern design, with completely new lighting, floor and counter as well as a new menu to enjoy, from freshly cooked breakfast rolls, to toasties, wraps, sausage rolls and sandwiches, alongside beloved cakes and pastries. The new 140-seater Coffee Shop also has almost twice as many seats, with plenty of choice from banquette seating to high stools with power sockets. The new Coffee Shop is designed to deliver a simplified, quicker customer experience with customers able to select their food from the display area before heading to the counter to checkout and order from the drinks menu, featuring barista-made coffees. Eloise Alder, Store Manager at M&S Swindon Orbital, said: “We have counted down the days to reveal our brand-new Coffee Shop concept! The new bigger layout means more seating, as well as speedier service, making the Coffee Shop the perfect pit-stop for customers on their shopping trip. Must-try new products include our Iced Wild Strawberry Matcha, Big Marks Brioche Roll and our M&S Mini-Bite Showstopper cake." M&S Swindon is one of 12 stores across the UK this financial year undergoing a renewal to deliver the best shopping experience for customers and store environment for colleagues. The store’s new bigger fresh market-style foodhall features an in-store bakery and dedicated Flower and Wine shop offers, while work on its fashion, beauty and home offer continues and is set to be finished this Autumn. The Coffee Shop is open between 8.30am and 5pm Monday to Saturday and between 10.30am and 4pm Sunday.

Drought resistant plants never more important for pollinators says RHS as it sees reduced blooms on many summer flowers. Drought resistant summer flowering garden plants are needed in greater number to support pollinators, says the RHS, as it publishes its updated Plants for Pollinators list. Warm, dry weather has been a boon for pollinators but a lack of rain this year has meant that many summer flowering favourites such as oxeye daisy, rudbeckia and phlox have reached only roughly half their average size with a reduced number of blooms or else blooms which have rapidly ‘gone over’ in the heat. This has impacted on plants’ provision of nectar meaning a broad spectrum of flowers that thrive in dry conditions has never been more important. Alongside drought tolerant favourites salvia and lavender, the charity is also recommending sea holly, euphorbia, helianthus and marjoram that a comprehensive review of its Plants for Pollinators now includes in greater number. Plants for Pollinators, which first launched in 2011, highlights plants that gardeners can grow to support the UK’s 6,000 pollinating insects. The 2025 updated list now includes nearly 10,000 plants which equates to roughly 15% of all plants available to buy in the UK. This includes 19 recently elevated to genus level – a grouping of closely related species of plant. Those plants include Eryngium (sea holly), Origanum (marjoram), Lavandula (lavender), Prunus (cherry/laurel), Euphorbia (spurge) and Campanula (bellflower). While Plants for Pollinators has expanded, 14 plants have been removed from the list as a result of a new methodology that incorporates literature reviews and working group observations. Those removed include spider flower (Cleome hassleriana), cigar plant (Cuphea ignea), Cupid’s dart (Catananche caerulea) and sweet sultan (Amberboa moschata). These all still provide sought after summer colour but alternatives that will marry colour and carry the pollinator-friendly logo include hollyhock (Alcea rosea), cornflowers (Centaurea spp), California poppy (Eschscholzia californica) and single-flowered forms of China aster (Callistephus chinensis). Andrew Salisbury, entomologist and Head of Plant Health at the RHS, said: “Indications are that the warm and dry conditions in the first half of the year have been good for pollinators. But should rainfall remain low as we head into late summer then plants’ growth potential and provision of nectar will continue to be impacted by the lack of water so gardeners should look to drought resistant favourites to outlast these periods and future proof their gardens." “Using our updated pollinator list to determine which are best for the conditions in your garden and on a local level is so important if we’re to help reverse the decline in UK pollinator numbers. We wouldn’t be surprised to see the likes of marjoram and sea holly becoming more popular with gardeners owing to their structure, resilience and pollinator appeal.” The review of the RHS’ Plants for Pollinators list forms part of its Plants for Purpose project that will recommend plants suitable in responding to local geography and climactic and environmental conditions such as flooding and drought and pollution. The RHS Plants for Pollinators list is intended to help tackle the decline in pollinators and lists those with flowers attractive to a wide range of pollinators including butterflies, hoverflies, wasps, moths and bees; single blooms with pollen and nectar. The list is divided according to cultivated garden plants and wildflowers. Each plant on the list has to be suitable for gardens and have a high level of nectar, pollen and/or oils, or serve as an important pollinator resource in autumn and winter, bloom prolifically or attract more than one insect group. The new methodology combining literature reviews and observations will be used to assess any potential new additions to the list. The list of plants that feature on Plants for Pollinators is searchable on the RHS website and denoted in garden centres across the country by those bearing the logo. Of those plants RHS Grow app users said were in their gardens the most popular on the Plants for Pollinators list are: Salvia Geranium Allium Lavendar Prunus Hellebore Euphorbia Verbena Hebe Campanula

A new hybrid pitch at the Shay Stadium in Halifax, built to FIFA standards, is now ready for kick-off. The mix of grass and synthetic material provides a high-quality surface, safeguarding the ongoing playing of football and rugby league at the stadium. Work to upgrade the pitch saw the old surface fully removed, and the rebuilding, re-layering and re-seeding of a brand new pitch surface. This has included new drainage and laser grading to ensure accurate levels. Ready for action for the new football season, the pitch is more durable and more weather-resistant, has a consistent playing surface and reduced maintenance needs, and recovers faster while keeping the look of natural grass. The work was carried out by Chappelow Sports Turf Ltd and mainly funded by a grant from the Football Foundation, with the remaining cost shared by Calderdale Council, Halifax Panthers RLFC and FC Halifax Town. Cllr Danielle Durrans, Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Services and Communities, said: “We know how much rugby and football mean to people in Calderdale. Upgrading the Shay pitch means greater playing certainty and quality for the clubs and fans." “It’s been quite a feat, battling challenges like heavy downpours and old drawings making it tricky to locate the culvert needed for the new drainage. All the hard teamwork and meticulous attention to detail has paid off, with the pitch looking luscious and ready for action." “As a fitting legacy, I’m pleased that some of the old pitch now has a new home at Heath RUFC, bringing benefits to the local community.” Damian Clayton MBE, CEO, Halifax Panthers, said: “We’re incredibly excited to return home to The Shay on Sunday 7 September for our final scheduled home fixture of the season against Widnes. The new hybrid surface is a top-quality pitch that truly reflects our Best in Class ambitions — proud, professional, and built for the future." “It’s a real statement of intent, not just for the Panthers but for the wider sporting community in Calderdale. We’re grateful to all involved in delivering this transformation and can’t wait to see it come to life on game day and enhance the lived experience for players and supporters alike.” David Bosomworth, Chairman of FC Halifax Town, commented: “It has been four years in the ‘making’ and it will be a total relief and pleasure to enjoy a pitch that is fit for purpose. A huge thank you needs to go to the Football Foundation for the provision of the grant and to all others who have made this project come to realisation by giving time and expertise along with financial support over and above the grant." “Hopefully days of being glued to the weather forecast may now be a thing of the past!” Ken Davy, Huddersfield Giants Chairman, commented: “I am delighted to see how well the new pitch has progressed. This will have a really positive impact on both of the clubs and fans’ entertainment. Soccer fans in particular should benefit from no longer having to suffer frequent cancellations.” Options for the long-term future of the stadium continue to be progressed in line with the Council’s Cabinet recommendations.

New Council brings together private sector, academia and civil society to enhance business mentoring across the UK. Business mentoring is widely recognised as a vital resource for entrepreneurs and business leaders. Recent research has shown that 8 out of 10 SME leaders credit mentoring as playing a vital part in their growth; and 7 out of 10 view it as a resource crucial to their resilience, well being and business’s survival . Despite this, many businesses continue to face challenges accessing high-quality business mentoring support and consistently cite the difficulty in knowing where to go and finding the right qualified mentors to support them. To address these needs and issues, leading firms from across the UK responsible for mentoring standards and accredited mentoring services have come together to form a new National Business Mentoring Council, supported by Government and referenced within its Small Business Plan. The new National Business Mentoring Council, is a major new partnership aimed at enhancing the quality and accessibility of business mentoring to help drive growth of businesses across the United Kingdom. The Council brings together senior representatives from across regions and nations involved in business mentoring, finance, entrepreneurship and academia. Its mission is to reduce sector fragmentation, strengthen professional pathways for mentors, share data and industry trends, and promote the benefits of and access to mentoring for SMEs, startups, and scaling firms. The Council will also support government strategies that foster business growth and resilience. At the Council’s inaugural meeting held in the Department for Business and Trade and co-chaired by the Association of Business Mentors and ScaleUp Institute plans were discussed for National Mentoring Day on 27th October which will serve as a platform to promote the impact of mentoring; the access to mentoring options and mentoring success stories from across the UK. The Council further discussed practical solutions on how to better coordinate activity across the mentoring ecosystem, reduce fragmentation and better support underserved communities and regions which will be a focus for it in coming months. Gareth Thomas MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Business and Trade, said: “Having a mentor can be a game-changer for small businesses, so I welcome the creation of this new council who will make it easier for business leaders to find a high-quality mentor they can trust. This forms part of the Government’s Plan for Small Businesses, the most comprehensive package of support for smaller businesses in a generation, helping to deliver the Plan for Change.” Irene Graham OBE, Co-Chair of the National Business Mentoring Council and CEO of the ScaleUp Institute, said: “Mentoring is a proven source of support in business scaling up but for business leaders too often it remains difficult to navigate where good mentors are available." "The Council’s aim, working with experts across the UK, is to address these challenges and foster greater collaboration between mentoring groups and easier access to proven quality mentorship so that no matter where a business is in the UK there is an easier pathway to find the mentor to suit their needs and support their business journey.” Georgina Waite, Co-Chair of the National Business Mentoring Council and CEO of the Association of Business Mentors, said: "Mentoring plays a pivotal role in empowering business leaders, helping them to navigate challenges and unlock growth opportunities. By uniting the sector’s collective expertise through the Council, we can make high quality mentorship more accessible to businesses nationwide, helping ensure that they get the support they need to start, scale and thrive.” Sarah Trouten, CEO of the IOEE, said: "The IOEE is proud to be a founding member of the National Business Mentoring Council, an essential new initiative set to significantly enhance the quality and accessibility of business mentoring across the United Kingdom. We firmly believe that through this collaborative effort we can profoundly impact the growth, resilience, and overall success of businesses, from startups to scaleups."

It wouldn’t be a British summer without them. Whether piled atop a scone, dunked in Pimm’s, or savoured straight from the punnet, strawberries are as quintessentially British as Wimbledon and unpredictable weather. But beneath the glossy surface of this beloved berry lies a complex and evolving story — of shifting seasons, changing tastes, and agricultural reinvention. The Taste of Summer Each year, the UK devours around 83,000 tonnes of strawberries, most of them between May and September. Their juicy sweetness is tied to memories of garden picnics and long evenings; they are the red jewels of the nation’s culinary calendar. Yet few realise how much science, sweat, and strategy go into bringing these berries to our supermarket shelves. The modern strawberry season in Britain has been dramatically extended thanks to poly tunnels, high-tech irrigation, and ever-refined growing techniques. In fact, many farms are now harvesting from late March well into October — a far cry from the few precious weeks of yesteryear. As a nation we are growing better strawberries for over a longer season as the British climate changes which is improving the flavour, flavour, firmness, and shelf-life of strawberries but crop production is not without its challenges. Climate Challenges Indeed, the British weather — once a source of national comedic pride — has become an increasingly volatile player in the strawberry world. Warmer winters and wetter springs disrupt flowering cycles, while sudden heatwaves can lead to berries ripening all at once, overwhelming pickers and packhouses. Growers are adapting. Some are experimenting with vertical farming; others are trialling heat-resistant varieties developed in Europe. The goal is resilience: strawberries that can handle downpours in May and dry spells in July without sacrificing their trademark taste. The Labour Problem Then there’s the issue of labour. Post-Brexit, the industry has struggled to find enough seasonal workers to pick the fruit. At peak times, thousands of hands are needed — and if strawberries aren’t picked at precisely the right moment, they’re lost. To ease the strain, some farms are investing in robotics. Automated harvesters are being trialled in Cambridgeshire and Herefordshire, using machine vision to detect ripeness. But for now, the human touch still reigns supreme. Changing Tastes Interestingly, British consumers are becoming more discerning. No longer content with any red berry, shoppers now seek flavour above all — and retailers are listening. Varieties such as Malling Centenary and Driscoll’s Zara are prized for their aromatic profiles and sweetness, often commanding premium prices. There’s also a growing appetite for local and sustainable produce. Farm shops and pick-your-own (PYO) sites have seen a resurgence, driven in part by post-pandemic nostalgia and a desire to connect with where our food comes from. Looking Ahead Despite the challenges, the future of British strawberries looks bright — albeit different. Advances in agritech, combined with renewed public interest in food origins, are pushing the industry into a new era. With sustainability at the forefront, growers are exploring everything from biodegradable packaging to regenerative farming practices. And as long as summer rolls around, there will always be a place for strawberries on the nation’s tables — and in its heart. Because in Britain, the humble strawberry is more than just a fruit. It’s a tradition, a memory, and a taste of summer that never quite fades.

The NFU Mutual Charitable Trust has once again pledged £70,000 to support NFU Education, helping to bring food and farming into classrooms across the country. This continued investment comes at a time when demand for food and farming education is stronger than ever. NFU research earlier this year revealed that two-thirds of teachers believe food and farming should play a bigger role in the national curriculum1 – a view echoed by the public, with more than 36,000 people signing the NFU’s petition calling on government to act2. NFU Education has responded to this growing appetite with record-breaking outreach. Over the past year, more than half a million schoolchildren have taken part in NFU live lessons, while the ‘Farmers for Schools’ programme – where trained farmers and NFU staff visit schools to share their stories – has more than doubled in reach. In the 2024/25 academic year alone, the programme has connected with over 30,000 pupils, thanks to the dedication of nearly 400 trained volunteers. These incredible numbers were made possible thanks to the Trust’s support, and its continued investment helps NFU Education continue to expand its reach, develop new resources, and inspire the next generation to learn more about where their food comes from and the role farming plays in their lives. NFU Vice-president Rachel Hallos said: “We’re incredibly grateful to the NFU Mutual Charitable Trust for this generous donation. Its continued support is a vital boost that helps us reach even more young people with engaging, curriculum-linked resources that bring food and farming to life." “At a time when climate change, global conflict and supply chain shocks are putting pressure on food systems worldwide, it has never been more important to grow that understanding at home. Young people deserve to leave school with a fair understanding of the many benefits British farming has to offer." “The vital work of NFU Education is instrumental in inspiring the next generation to understand and value the origins of their food, and the overwhelming success and popularity of our projects show the appetite to learn more.” NFU Mutual Chair and Chair of the NFU Mutual Charitable Trust Jim McLaren MBE said: “We are very proud to support the development of NFU Education through this donation. Helping young people to learn about farming and where their food comes from is crucially important, and this is a fantastic initiative working closely with schools to deliver engaging and memorable education.” Photo: Farmers for Schools ambassadors Kelly Armitage and Aimee Carlisle interact with kids during a school visit.

This year’s Lloyds Tour of Britain Men will come to a thrilling climax in south Wales this September, across 250 kilometres of tough racing, featuring over 4,000 metres of ascent, across the final pair of stages, as the routes for the six stages of the race are today launched. In total the world’s top riders will face over 886 kilometres of racing (551 miles) across six stages between Tuesday 2 and Sunday 7 September, stretching from the East Suffolk coastline to the Welsh capital Cardiff, via Mid Suffolk, Milton Keynes and Central Bedfordshire, Warwickshire, Torfaen and Monmouthshire, and Newport. Along the way the race will visit new venues and tackle legendary climbs from past editions of the Lloyds Tour of Britain Men, including The Tumble, Burton Dassett Hills, and Caerphilly Mountain, the latter coming in the final ten kilometres of the 2025 route. Commenting on the announcement of the detailed routes, Jonathan Day, Managing Director for British Cycling Events, said; “This is the news that fans have been looking forward to, and with a month to go until the Lloyds Tour of Britain Men gets underway, we are delighted to be sharing the exciting detail of all six routes." “Following the announcement of the fantastic line-up of teams for the race, fans can now start planning exactly where they will be watching their heroes and cheering them on in September. We have worked hard with our stakeholders across all six stages to create this great route that will build to a real climax as we reach Wales, with the racing for the green jersey sure to go all the way down to the finish line on North Road in Cardiff.” About Stage One Tuesday 2 September will see riders getting underway from Woodbridge in East Suffolk and facing a 161.4-kilometre (100.4-mile) stage to Southwold, the first time that the opening stage of Britain’s biggest professional men’s cycle race has been held in Suffolk since 2012. From the start in Woodbridge at 11am, riders will initially head west, before looping back around through Grundisburgh, Wickham Market, and Rendlesham, before passing the famous Snape Maltings to reach the Suffolk coast at Aldeburgh. Running alongside the sea to Thorpeness, the route then turns inland, weaving through Saxmundham and Framlingham, to the day’s intermediate sprint on Walpole Road in Halesworth. The stage will reach its northernmost point at Bungay, routing back towards Southwold via Beccles, Wrentham and Reydon, for the finish on North Parade in Southwold, which is expected at around 3.05pm. About Stage Two For the first time ever, Suffolk will host two stages of the Lloyds Tour of Britain Men in the same edition, with Mid Suffolk District Council and neighbouring Babergh District Council hosting a stage starting and finishing in Stowmarket on Wednesday 3 September. The 169.3-kilometre (105.3-mile) leg will depart from Ipswich Street in the town centre at 11:00, leaving towards Stowupland and Forward Green. The route takes in Debenham and Bedfield, before the intermediate sprint in Stradbroke after 40 kilometres of racing. Crossing Mid Suffolk to Eye and Thurston, the race turns south to Felsham and into Babergh for a southern loop taking in Lavenham, Sudbury, and the Dedham Vale National Landscape, before turning back for the run towards Stowmarket and the finish on Ipswich Street around 15:15. Stage two also includes the first designated king of the mountains climb of the race, Semer Hill, just after Hadleigh, in the closing kilometres of the race. About Stage Three Thursday 4 September will see a 122.8-kilometre (76.4-mile) leg from Milton Keynes to Ampthill, that will take in Woburn, Toddington, Barton-le-Clay, and Shefford, and include a spectator friendly double-loop around Northill and Old Warden. Stage three will get underway from Milton Keynes’ Midsummer Boulevard at 11:30, passing alongside and then crossing the grade 2 listed Campbell Park in the neutralised section, before leaving the city through Caldecotte, and passing the Oracle Red Bull Racing Formula One team’s technology campus and factory, shortly before racing begins. After racing through historical Woburn Sands, the race enters Central Bedfordshire, crossing Woburn Abbey Deer Park and on to Toddington, before turning east after Chalton, to Streatley and Barton-le-Clay, passing the ancient woodland and chalk escarpment at Sharpenhoe. The stage will complete a lap and a half of a 30-kilometre loop east of Biggleswade, giving spectators at the intermediate sprint outside Northill, and the day’s categorised king of the mountains climb at Hillfoot near Old Warden, the chance to see the race twice. From the second ascent of the 700-metre, 5.2% average climb, just 16 kilometres of racing lie before the finish line, which will see riders sprinting through Ampthill town centre, and along Woburn Street, to the finish on Woburn Road, at around 14:40. About Stage Four Warwickshire will host the longest stage of the 2025 Lloyds Tour of Britain Men, as the world’s top professional cyclists from 19 teams will take on a 186.9-kilometre (116.2 miles) route, starting from Sheepy Road in Atherstone at 10:30 on Friday 5 September, and finishing atop Burton Dassett Hills Country Park, just after 15:00. Along the way the route will take in all five districts and boroughs of Warwickshire (North Warwickshire Borough; Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough; Rugby Borough; Warwick District; and Stratford-upon-Avon District), and feature six categorised king of the mountains climbs – the most on any stage of the 2025 route. Having hosted three previous stage starts of the Lloyds Tour of Britain Women, plus a time trial, September will mark the first time that the men’s race has started in the North Warwickshire town. From Atherstone the route will take in Ansley, Shustoke, and Fillongley, before heading through Bedworth and Bulkington, then heading south via Brinklow to skirt Rugby and go through Dunchurch. The day’s intermediate sprint will come after 85 kilometres of racing on Rugby Road in Cubbington, before the climbing starts in earnest in the second part of the stage, with the first categorised climb at Friz Hill, between Wellesbourne and Compton Verney. From Kineton the route heads south to Shipston-on-Stour, with the next climb of Fant Hill at Upper Brailes, soon after, followed almost immediately by Sun Rising Hill, with an average of 10% over its 900 metres as it takes the race up onto the Edgehill escarpment. The stage then uses the same finishing circuit around Burton Dassett Hills Country Park that featured in the 2019 race, when Mathieu van der Poel took a memorable stage win. Three ascents of the main, categorised, 1.4-kilometre climb, which averages 5.7% await contribute towards more than 2,100 metres of ascent in the stage, the second highest of this year’s race. About Stage Five Stage five will start from Pontypool Park in Torfaen at 11:30 on 6 September, with fans in the town also able to see the race later in the day, as the route snakes back through Pontypool, at around 14:00, after its first ascent of The Tumble. First the route will head to Usk and Chepstow, taking in the first of five categorised king of the mountains ascents at Llangwm, averaging 4.7% over its 3.6 kilometres. Immediately after Chepstow the race tackles Itton Hill, the second climb of the day, almost five kilometres in length, and heads on to Monmouth, and then the Old Ross Road climb on the way to Abergavenny. From the town, the race will head to its first ascent of The Tumble, averaging over 8% across its 4.9-kilometre distance, before a fast descent into Blaenavon and along the Afon Lwyd valley to Pontypool. The stage retraces its route to Usk, turning north via the Chain Bridge across the River Usk, to head back to The Tumble and the final, gruelling race up to the finish line at the summit, after more than 2,330 metres of ascent during the 133.5-kilometre (83-mile) route, for an expected finish just before 15:00. About Stage Six The final stage begins at 11:45 from outside the Geraint Thomas National Velodrome of Wales in Newport, and while the 112.2-kilometre (69.8-mile) route only features two categorised climbs (Mynydd Bedwellte and Caerphilly Mountain), the constant undulations add up to almost 1,750 metres of ascent. Leaving Newport towards Risca and Crosskeys, the stage passes through the appropriately named Wattsville, and north through Caerphilly County Borough and then Blaenau Gwent to weave its way to Ebbw Vale, before returning via Tredegar and the Sirhowy Valley. A three-kilometre climb at almost the halfway point takes the race onto the Mynydd Bedwellte and over into the Rhymney Valley, before ascending Gelligaer Common and an undulating section via Bargoed, Nelson and Ystrad Mynach, to Caerphilly. Located with under ten kilometres of racing to go, the 1.4-kilometre, 9.7% average gradient climb of Caerphilly Mountain will again prove decisive for the stage winner in Cardiff, with a fast and relatively straightforward run in to Cardiff, including passing the Maindy cycle track, before the finish on North Road, alongside Bute Park, at around 14:45. Commenting on the final two stages, Welsh Government Minister with responsibility for Sport, Jack Sargeant, said; "The Lloyds Tour of Britain showcases the very best of Welsh landscapes and our passion for cycling. These challenging routes promise to be a great for some of the world's top cyclists whilst providing a wonderful viewing experience for spectators at the many fantastic locations along both routes." “With a thrilling finish expected in our capital city Cardiff, this will be a fitting celebration of cycling in Wales and a wonderful send-off for Geraint Thomas in his final road race. I'm sure too that these stages will create lasting memories for athletes and fans alike. Pob lwc pawb."

The Bank of England has made a significant decision to cut interest rates from 4.25% to 4% which could mean that borrowing becomes cheaper, which can encourage spending and investment. For consumers, this could translate to reduced monthly payments on loans and mortgages, potentially providing more disposable income for other expenses. Moreover, for those looking to take out new loans, the decreased rate may present an opportunity to secure more favourable terms. This marks the Bank's fifth cut since last August, passed on a knife-edge, and takes the cost of borrowing to its lowest level for more than two years. This series of cuts reflects the Bank's ongoing efforts to stimulate economic growth and respond to changing economic conditions. Governor Andrew Bailey has commented on the situation, stating that he expects rates to continue moving downwards, but there is "genuine uncertainty" about the pace of the decline. This acknowledgment of uncertainty is crucial for investors and consumers alike, as it suggests that while the current trend points toward lower rates, the future remains unpredictable. Responding to the Bank of England’s decision today to reduce the base rate by 0.25% to 4%, Hampshire Chamber Chief Executive and Executive Chairman Ross McNally said: “Businesses will welcome this latest cut, the fifth in a year, as it makes borrowing cheaper and should increase consumer spending power. It’s good news particularly for those smaller businesses among our membership who have put investment and recruitment plans on hold due to rising costs." ”Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are often cited as the backbone of the economy as they create so many jobs and underpin so much prosperity. However, if the government is to truly help SMEs while achieving success with its wider growth strategy, it’s going to take more than another quarter per cent rate cut from the Bank of England." “Ministers must continue to work with chambers of commerce to help our members access finance, leverage opportunities for market growth and navigate cost pressures. That means we need to see continued action against inflation, longer-term reform of business rates and no further tax rises loaded on firms and employers in the Autumn Budget," concludes Ross. David Hunt, Head of Savings, Investec Bank, said: "Today’s cut introduces uncertainty for savers and we anticipate a higher number to move their money into fixed rate products as they look to lock in attractive returns. Investec Save’s research* reveals that savers are voting with their feet, with 37% planning to switch their funds into fixed rate savings accounts this year to beat rate cuts." “This is the fifth base rate cut since last summer and we predict there are still more cuts to come later this year and into 2026. Savers need to act quickly if they want to move their money to fixed rate accounts with higher rates as we’re likely to see these start to disappear from the market.” Nicholas Hyett, Investment Manager at Wealth Club said: “The Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee has launched a pre-emptive strike on any economic downturn later in the year. It remains unsaid in these minutes, but the increasing likelihood of tax hikes and/or spending cuts at the Autumn Budget has also probably played a part in this “finely balanced” decision. Both consumers and companies could see their pockets squeezed by the taxman, and that would have knock-on effects for economic growth." "While inflation is expected to rise a bit in September, the Bank believes it will fall back towards the 2% target from there. That’s opened up the space for today’s pre-emptive action. The market seems to be suggesting there could be another cut later this year – and with one member of the MPC already arguing in favour of a move to 3.75% you can see why." "It feels like we’re entering a wait and see phase. Does this rate cut give the economy a little bit of extra umph it badly needs, or will the Bank need to act again come the Budget? Time will tell," concludes Nicholas. Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) Policy Chair, Tina McKenzie, said: “With many small firms undoubtedly facing difficult trading circumstances at the moment, the cut to the base rate will be warmly welcomed. After a prolonged period of high borrowing costs for small business owners seeking finance, and both commercial and domestic mortgages, this move offers small firms some much-needed relief while they face rising costs, weaker consumer demand, and tight margins." “The small business community will now look to lenders to reflect this rapidly across their offering, cutting the cost of finance. They will also want to see the Bank of England set out a clear path for the rest of the year, with a further easing in the base rate badly needed to reduce the financial strain they are under." “There will be no growth in the economy overall unless small firms are able to expand and fulfil their potential, but their confidence is still firmly in negative territory, according to our research." “Lower borrowing costs will encourage small businesses to invest, giving the wider economy a much-needed fillip" “A decrease in interest rates will also ease the pain caused by late payments, a perennial pain-point for millions of small firms – and something the Government has promised to tackle, with proposals to make the audit committees of large corporates responsible for payment practices to suppliers." “The issue of personal guarantees, and the chilling effect they have on small businesses’ risk-taking and investment appetite, is also firmly on the Government’s radar, and is another area where we want to see swift and decisive improvements." “Loosening the chokehold that personal guarantees place on small business borrowers will help unlock growth and expansion, especially when – as at present – they are applied in what many small business owners believe to be a blanket fashion, with little to no regard given to the size of the loan in question or the creditworthiness of the potential borrower." “Action on these points would make a huge difference to small businesses, and we want to see the proposals turned into reality as soon as possible.” Kai Hunter, Non Executive Director at Love Finance, UK’s fastest-growing SME lender and broker to simplify the business loan process, who’s spent over two decades supporting small businesses through funding challenges adds: "The Bank of England cutting rates to 4.0% is a real boost for UK SMEs. After a tough couple of years with rising costs and cautious spending, this gives businesses some much-needed breathing space, a chance to plan, invest, and move forward with a bit more confidence." "That said, cashflow’s still a major pressure, especially in sectors like construction, hospitality, and transport. When margins are tight, waiting weeks or months for funding just isn’t an option. Speed and access really matter now." "If financial services can keep pace with this shift, it could make a big difference for businesses looking to get back on the front foot. Looking back, it’s good to see the momentum finally starting to turn."

Yorkshire-based manufacturer Power Plastics has been granted a renewed five-year approval by the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, for the use of its Baffle Curtains in public water supply across the UK & Northern Ireland. The approvals fall under Regulation 31(4)(a) of both the Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations 2016 and Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations 2010 (Wales). Power Plastics remains the only UK manufacturer to hold Regulation 31(4)(a) approval not just for the materials used in its drinking water products, but also for its fully assembled Baffle Curtain system. Widely adopted by UK water utilities, these innovative systems play a crucial role in maintaining optimal water quality within potable water storage tanks Phil Sellers, Technical Director of Power Plastics, commented: “We are delighted to have extended approval for both our Baffle Curtain system and the materials used in our drinking water product range, through to the end of 2029." "This achievement reinforces our reputation as a trusted partner to the UK water industry and our steadfast commitment to delivering high-quality, compliant solutions that support the effective management of drinking water supplies." In addition to Baffle Curtains, Power Plastics offer a broad range of innovative products for the waste & water industry, including odour control covers, removable tank covers and sludge cones. To explore the full range of Power Plastics waste & water industry solutions, visit their website here Power Plastics is a UK based fabric and structural engineering company specialising in the design, manufacture, assembly and onsite installation of cover solutions, comprising of fabric and structural metalwork for a wide variety of industries. Operating internationally, Power Plastics has a reputation around the world for innovation and the quality of product and service they provide.

There’s a tell-tale sizzle that sends taste buds tingling and noses twitching: the sound of halloumi hitting a hot pan. Once a niche import relegated to health food shops and Mediterranean delis, this Cypriot cheese has taken centre stage in British cuisine, becoming a beloved staple from brunch tables to barbecue grills. But how did this rubbery, salty slab become a national obsession? A Cheese Like No Other Unlike most cheeses, halloumi doesn’t melt when cooked — a trait that has propelled it into culinary stardom. Made traditionally from a blend of goat’s and sheep’s milk (though cow’s milk variants are now common), halloumi is brined for a salty kick, then folded and often garnished with mint before maturing. Its high melting point means it can be fried or grilled to golden perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior and a satisfyingly chewy centre. A Vegetarian Hero Halloumi’s rise to fame in the UK coincided with the surge in plant-based and flexitarian eating. As more Britons sought meat alternatives, halloumi answered the call. It became the go-to option in burgers, wraps, salads, and even full English breakfasts. Supermarkets quickly caught on — sales of halloumi in Britain have skyrocketed in the past decade, with retailers now offering everything from halloumi fries to flavoured varieties like chilli or basil. In fact, according to data from the British Retail Consortium, halloumi sales have increased by over 40% in the last five years alone, cementing its place in the UK’s culinary lexicon. From Cyprus, With Love While Britain has embraced halloumi wholeheartedly, its roots are firmly planted in Cyprus, where it has been made for centuries. So iconic is the cheese that in 2021, the European Union granted halloumi Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, meaning only cheese made in Cyprus using traditional methods can be sold under the name "halloumi" within the EU. This move has brought mixed reactions. While purists celebrate the preservation of authenticity, others fear it may restrict innovation or increase prices. Nonetheless, for many Cypriots, it’s a long-overdue recognition of a product central to their culinary heritage. Grill It, Fry It, Love It Whether you’re a die-hard foodie or a weeknight cook, halloumi offers endless versatility. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mint yoghurt, watermelon, couscous, or simply on its own, charred and golden. Some chefs even serve it with honey and nuts for a sweet-savoury twist. For adventurous home cooks, there’s even an emerging trend of making halloumi at home — a surprisingly achievable process for those willing to get their hands cheesy. A Delicious Future As British palates continue to explore global cuisines and reduce meat consumption, halloumi is well-positioned to stay on the menu. And while it may be high in salt and fat, its protein content and versatility make it a satisfying alternative in moderation. So next time you hear that signature sizzle in the pan, remember: you’re not just frying cheese — you’re celebrating a centuries-old tradition with every bite. Five Delicious Ways to Enjoy Halloumi Halloumi Fries – Deep-fried batons served with spicy harissa mayo. Grilled Halloumi & Watermelon Salad – A summer favourite with mint and lime. Halloumi Burgers – Swap the beef for thick grilled slices, layered with avocado and slaw. Halloumi Shakshuka – Add cubes of cheese to your spicy tomato and egg dish. Halloumi Tacos – Pan-fried halloumi with pickled red onions, guacamole and fresh coriander.

The last few years have seen a significant shift in the way that people approach work and how they prioritise its importance in their lives. Working from home, introducing flexible hours to suit their requirements, spending quality time with family, friends, hobbies and interests has meant that for many, a more balanced way of life has become their preferred way of living. Lockdown prompted many people to rethink what was important in their lives. Did they still want to travel to an office and spend hours away from home? This was when many discovered the importance of family, friends and how much they treasured time for hobbies, interests and personal self-care. A summer 2024 survey revealed that approximately 6% of full-time workers in the UK are already working a 4-day week, suggesting that up to 1.5 million employees could now be benefiting from this new approach to work. According to a survey by Survation, 58% of the public say taking a 3-day weekend will be “the normal way of working” by 2030 – with only 22% believing it won’t. Nearly a third of US CEO’s polled in 2024 by accounting firm KPMG revealed that they’re exploring alternative work schedules such as a 4 or 4 1/2 day workweek. Spain’s Prime Minister, Pedro Sanchez, sees 4-day working as a way of increasing productivity and creating a better work-life balance. Two hundred companies in the UK have permanently adopted a 4-day working week with no loss of pay for staff. According to the most recent 4 Day Week Foundation update, the companies involved collectively employ more than 5,000 people, with non-profits, marketing, and technology firms among the best represented. Joe Ryle, Campaign Director of the 4 Day Week Foundation, said the nine-to-five, five-day work week was “no longer fit for purpose. With noticably more free time, a 4-day week gives people the freedom to live happier, more fulfilling lives.” London-based companies make up 59 of the 200 participating firms, followed by 27 in South East England, 25 in Scotland, 24 in South West England and 15 in North West England. A significant number of companies are in sectors including Creative Arts & Design (18), Engineering & Manufacturing (12), Recruitment & HR (12), Entertainment (9), Accountancy, Banking & Finance (8). Property Development, Trades & Construction (6) have also recently been accredited by the foundation. South Cambridgeshire District Council has been the first local authority in the UK to run trials, with over 600 staff working a 4-day week. “As hundreds of British companies and one local council have already shown, a 4-day week with no loss of pay can be a win-win for both workers and employers,” Mr Ryle said. The 4 Day Week Foundation has plans to run at least three new 4-day week pilots throughout 2025. However, there are concerns that such a cultural shift could cause controversy, with the change to working practices could negatively impacting businesses and hitting economic growth. There is a concern that a reduction in flexibility and an increase in costs could impact on small and medium sized companies. Kevin Hollindrake, the Tory shadow business secretary, expressed the view in late 2024, that large-scale moves to a 4-day week would make doing business more expensive in the UK. Not all sectors can easily transition to the 4-day model, leading to some concerns. Under current laws, workers have the right to request flexible working, but employers aren’t legally obliged to agree. Government ministers have previously insisted they have “no plans” to force businesses to accept a 4-day working week. A study by Spark Market Research has found that younger workers are the most likely to resist traditional working patterns. About 78% of UK 18-34-year-olds believe a 4-day working week will become widespread in five years, while 65% said they don’t want to see a return to full-time office working. Lynsey Carolan, Managing Director of Spark Market Research, said: “Our survey clearly shows a desire for change in traditional working patterns. 18-34’s, the core workforce of the next 50 years, are making their feelings known that they don’t intend to go back to old fashioned working patterns when other options are now available. “This group also say that mental health and improving their overall wellbeing are their top priorities, so a 4-day week is a really meaningful benefit and a key enabler enhancing their overall quality of life.” There’s also the impact that this change to working practices has on domestic households. Trials have noted that men begin to take on greater levels of responsibility at home and participate more in parenting duties. There are some businesses, like hospitality, healthcare and retail, whose customers’ and clients’ requirements are for 24-hour availability, but flexible shift patterns and increased online support may well offer solutions to these issues as our approach to work-life balance gradually evolves. Could a 4-day week be for you? About the Author - This piece was written by Susan Leigh, Counsellor and Hypnotherapist Find out more by visiting her website here

Leicester College is constructing a new Electrotechnical Workshop and Test and Inspection Lab at its Freemen’s Park Campus in the city. The new facility will provide T Level, Technical Level 2, and evening Level 2 and 3 programme learners with greater exposure to a broader range of industry-standard materials, tools and equipment, significantly enhancing their knowledge, skills and behaviours in preparation for employment. The building of the new facility, refurbishing an existing sports hall, is scheduled to be fully operational by September 2025. The new Electrotechnical Workshop will enable students to develop their understanding of: • Domestic and commercial practical installations • Health and safety in building services • Principles of electrical science • Electrical installation techniques and wiring systems In the Test and Inspection Lab, students will develop their understanding of: • Inspecting, testing and commissioning electrical systems • Maintaining and decommissioning electrotechnical systems • Compliance with BS7671 wiring regulations Nick Allen, Programme Area Manager at Leicester College, said: “It’s widely accepted that the UK electrical industry is experiencing an increase in demand for skilled electricians but faces a significant skills shortage. By establishing this new facility, Leicester College is providing access for learners to state-of-the-art electrical equipment that will boost their expertise and, consequently, their employment opportunities.” Darren Roome, Director of Curriculum - Construction at Leicester College, commented: "The new Electrotechnical facility will provide the next generation of students with access to excellent teaching, learning and assessment opportunities. Equipped with a purpose-built workshop and the latest test and inspection technologies, the experienced teaching team will be well-positioned to deliver an enriched educational experience. It’s an exciting development for both staff and students." The new labs will be equipped with modern training and assessment rigs supplied by Test Rigs UK Ltd. Phillip Hague, Company Director at Test Rigs UK, added: "Test Rigs UK Ltd are so privileged to work in partnership with Leicester College to produce and supply these products. The training and assessment rigs will allow the next generation of learners to practise and train in a safe, simulated environment allowing realistic testing and fault-finding practices to be learned and hopefully taking those skills with them into their future work as electricians in the industry." "Test Rigs UK Ltd was set up for this very reason and to be a major player in this industry, and to be recognised by such an establishment like Leicester College is an honour. We look forward to seeing the learners in action on these rigs."