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UK top 10 accountancy and advisory firm Azets has appointed a senior tax compliance expert to Corporate Tax Director at its Manchester office. Tina Warhurst will be using her experience and key contacts for Azets’ growing client base across the North West. Her career includes 20 years at ‘Big 4’ accountancy firm KPMG with her later years there as part of its national corporate tax compliance team. More recently she was at BDO in Manchester where her experience included helping all sizes and types of business manage their corporate tax governance and compliance obligations. Graham Rigby, Office Managing Partner in Manchester, said: “With ever evolving and complex UK tax regulations being introduced, the level of compliance facing companies continues to rise, as does tax requirements as they grow." “Tina’s extensive experience will help us support more companies to manage and comply with these complexities and aid their long-term growth plans.” Tina said: “Azets’ reputation in the sector is second to none and I look forward to supporting companies with their tax compliance obligations. I have built up many years of experience working nationally and internationally with clients, including in-house leading the tax team for Yorkshire Building Society." “This has given me further insights into the many facets of UK tax which I will be utilising for the benefit of Azets’ clients across the region.” Azets has branches across the region in Manchester, Bolton, Burnley, Lancaster, Preston, Shrewsbury, St Asaph, Stockport and Nottingham.

Atlassian Williams F1 Team officially unveiled the racing livery for its 2026 challenger, the FW48 – revealing a new look for the team in Formula 1’s all-new regulations era. Drivers Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz joined Team Principal James Vowles to present the striking design to the 1,200-strong workforce at Grove who have poured tens of thousands of hours into preparing for the season ahead. The 2026 livery has been designed to match the team’s bold intent as it transitions to a new era as Atlassian Williams F1 Team – a name reflecting the team’s sole purpose to race and win at the pinnacle of motorsport. The FW48 is flooded with a vibrant gloss blue, a colour that is unmistakably Williams and reflects the strength of our title partnership with Atlassian. This is contrasted with a flowing section of black, sweeping from the chassis side through to the rear of the car, which is framed by an iconic red and white keyline – a feature of championship-winning Williams cars like Nigel Mansell’s FW14B and Damon Hill’s FW18 which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. The most striking evolution of the livery comes from the introduction of white across the sidepod, front wing and rear wing – injecting energy and movement into the design and amplifying the presence of our partners across the car. Atlassian Williams F1 Team’s new look was revealed hours after the announcement of a major new global partnership with Barclays, the latest vote of confidence in Williams’ determination to return to the front of the grid. Over the past fortnight the team has also welcomed Anthropic, BNY, Wilkinson Sword and Nuveen to the team, who all join our growing roster of world-class brands who are helping the team transform in pursuit of Championship success. The livery has been custom designed around the new shape of F1 cars in 2026. New regulations mean the cars are shorter and narrower with significant changes to the front and rear wings – along with other aerodynamic surfaces – designed for even closer racing. The entire team at Grove has been determined to push the boundaries of performance with the FW48, targeting the new regulations as an opportunity to take the next step on Williams’ journey back towards the front. In 2026 Atlassian Williams F1 Team is looking to build on its most successful season for nine years. Last year the team finished fifth in the Constructors’ Championship with 137 points, secured podium finishes in Baku and Qatar, and took home its first-ever Sprint podium in Austin. James Vowles, Team Principal, Atlassian Williams F1 Team: “2026 is the next step on the path back towards the top for Atlassian Williams F1 Team as we enter a new era for the sport, and we are excited about the season ahead." "We have a great driver line up, some fantastic new partners, an ever-growing fanbase and want to build on the success we tasted last year, but we are not naïve about the challenge ahead of us. Nobody quite knows what will happen at the first race but we are looking forward to finding out, and hope our fans will love cheering us on with this great new livery.” Alex Albon, Atlassian Williams F1 Team: “It’s always special to see a new livery for the first time, and the FW48 looks incredible. The design really stands out – it’s bold, modern and unmistakably Atlassian Williams F1 Team. I can’t wait for the fans to see it on track and cheer us on in 2026.” Carlos Sainz, Atlassian Williams F1 Team: “The FW48 livery is a real statement of our intent for 2026. The design celebrates Atlassian Williams F1 Team’s heritage while embracing a fresh, dynamic look for the new era." "I’m excited to race in this livery and to share the thrill with fans around the world - their support makes all the difference as we continue on our journey together!”

An accountancy firm has been acquired by Nuvo, marking the company’s arrival in Warwickshire. In a seven-figure buy-out, Pentlands Accountants and Advisors, in Warwick, has become the 34th acquisition in 21 years by the Derby-based firm which was last year ranked #73 in the UK Top 100 Accountancy Firms. The deal is said to be a perfect fit for both businesses whose core client base is SMEs and micro businesses. It marks a watershed moment for Elinor Perry who last year celebrated her 20th anniversary in charge of the 28-year-old business where nine full and part-time staff servicing the needs of more than 250 loyal clients from their Pegasus Court offices. She said: “This acquisition brings strength to our ability to deliver services to clients. We are now part of a much bigger organisation that has lots of skills and resources which we can tap into to help clients with their growth plans. We were very good at doing that but now we can do it on a much bigger scale." “Nuvo aligns seamlessly with our values and culture. By joining the Nuvo Group, we will be able to further enhance our ability to assist our clients in growing their businesses. This partnership will also enable us to offer new services and support, ensuring our clients' continued success.” Elinor, who remains a Partner, added: “As part of the sale three key long standing team members exercised their share options and all the team have moved over to Nuvo’s four-day working week contract resulting in a better work-life balance, along with a 5% Employee Benefit Trust, designed to reward everyone in the shared success of the company”. “We told all the clients personally over several weeks. Personal relationships are what we built the business on, so it was really important to reassure the clients that it's business as usual." Nuvo was named the fastest growing accountancy firm in 2025, this latest acquisition is part of Nuvo’s growth plan to become a top 25 UK firm by 2030. The teams offer expertise in accountancy, tax, audit and advisory. Founder and CEO Steve Sharp said: “It’s great to welcome Elinor and her team to the Nuvo Group. From our first conversations it was obvious the alignment between the businesses especially in terms of the culture, values and the way Pentlands position themselves as a people focused, modern firm. Pentlands has a strong brand in the region which is why we will be co-branding”. “Our message to the Pentlands clients is that it really is business as usual, it's the same team delivering the same services from the same office and the same service levels that they've been used to just with the benefit of having a larger group behind Pentlands, which offers them access to additional services where they're needed.” It’s a momentous personal chapter for Elinor who, in 2005, aged 34, did a management buyout from the existing owners of the business – eventually also going on to buy out her business partner in 2010. Reflecting on the acquisition, Elinor said: “Having guided many business owners through this journey over the years, I understand the process well. However, you never truly appreciate it until you experience it firsthand. The emotional attachment is significant; this business has been my foundation for two decades. Therefore, it was crucial to find the right home for the team, the clients, and myself as I transition into a new role within a larger organisation. “

Mark Little has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of multi-award winning national commercial cleaning and FM company Cleanology. He will be playing a pivotal role supporting the £25 million turnover company’s ambitious plans to double in size. A successful 2025 has seen Cleanology win dozens of new contracts across 11 sectors, including the company’s biggest ever mobilisation with over £2 million of new contracts mobilised in just one month. Cleanology – which operates in 24 cities across the UK and employs over 1,000 people – has also reported several notable achievements for 2025 including: A total of £151,000 raised in total from its five annual fundraisers for The Hygiene Bank, including nearly £15,000 generated in social value. 32.9 percent less carbon produced across its national teams as well as the development of an official sustainability committee delivering exciting projects. The launch of its new rebrand in a bold and exciting live launch marked by the projection of its vibrant new logo against iconic London landmarks. Prioritising fair pay, with 99% of employees receiving the Real Living Wage, a significant rise from 18% in 2017. Mark Little said: “It is a great honour and fantastic opportunity to be the new CEO of Cleanology which has grown from a small family business into one of the country’s leading national commercial cleaning and FM companies. I’m looking forward to meeting our clients and working with all the Cleanology team, during the next exciting chapter of our development." "I am looking forward to playing a major part in ensuring Cleanology continues to grow, while retaining its clear focus on being a leader in innovation and sustainability”. Mark has worked in the outsourced FM services sector for 35 years, in both large corporates and smaller privately owned businesses. For the past 15 years in the Cleaning industry, and prior to joining Cleanology, he was CEO for the private equity backed Just Ask / Nexgen for five years. Entrepreneur Dominic Ponniah, the Co-Founder of Cleanology, stepped down as CEO at the end of last year to become its new Chairman. Dominic will still be taking a keen interest in the growth of the company, co-founded with his mother Elisabeth Ponniah in 1999, after deciding the time was right to step back from its day-to-day running. Ponniah, commenting on Mark Little’s appointment, said: “I am absolutely delighted to welcome Mark to the team at this pivotal and exciting time for Cleanology. As we enter this new phase of growth, Mark’s wealth of experience and industry expertise will provide the right leadership for the business as it continues to expand nationally.” Cleanology, which is headquartered in Vauxhall, southwest London, and has regional offices in Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol and Scotland, enjoyed an outstanding 2025 winning new business in a range of sectors from law and education to leisure and energy. Its diverse staff are from 34 nationalities with 82 percent identifying as ethnically diverse. They attend an annual Academy Day and participate in ‘Lunch & Learn’ sessions. Photo: Cleanology’s Senior Leadership Team (from left): Mark Little, CEO, Kate Lovell, ESG & Client Experience Director, Jade Collazo, HR Director, Juliet Widdicombe, Associate Director and Nick Platt, Managing Director of Sales & Marketing.

Property consultancy Vail Williams has successfully negotiated the rapid letting of an industrial unit near to Birmingham city centre. Acting for a private landlord, the firm completed a deal for 51 Runcorn Road in the Balsall Heath area of the city in just six weeks. “We were particularly pleased to get this one over the line in a matter of weeks after the previous tenant moved out. We had extremely strong interest in this property, which demonstrates that there remains good regional demand for industrial/warehouse premises with offices.” The warehouse, constructed in around 2001 with part brick and part profile metal clad elevations, has three roller shutter doors and 6.8m eaves, with secure yard areas to the front and rear. Internally the accommodation comprises, ground and first floor office accommodation, warehouse, toilets, kitchenette and a small first floor mezzanine. Runcorn Road provides direct access to the main Alcester Road/Moseley Road (A435), which in turn provides direct access to the middle ring road (A4540) and is within close proximity of J6 of the M6. Birmingham city centre is approximately two miles away. Vail Williams has been based in the Midlands for 15 years, during which time the team in Birmingham has tripled in size. The firm works with a variety of public and private sector occupiers, landlords and investors right across the Midlands, and also the North through its base in Leeds. Vail Williams’ full-service property advice includes commercial agency, investment and development advice, building consultancy, property valuation, planning, lease advisory, property asset management, business rates and occupier consultancy.

Bradford Bulls are delighted to announce the appointment of England international Amy Hardcastle as Women’s Development Manager. Hardcastle played an integral role in our Women’s team following the adoption of the Bulls’ moniker in 2016 – featuring heavily in the treble winning, undefeated 2017 season. Two years at Leeds Rhinos was sandwiched by spells in the ‘Red V’ at St Helens, where she currently plies her trade – having also made 29 appearances for her country, scoring 29 tries. Amy Hardcastle, who is Available for Sponsorship, said: “I’m incredibly excited to be starting my new role at the Bradford Bulls. With my years of experience, passion, and determination, I’m committed to playing my part in helping to grow, support, and strengthen the women’s programme." “I’m really looking forward to working alongside Rebecca and Noah to develop a strong culture, a professional environment, and continued growth within the team. It’s an honour to be appointed Women’s Development Manager at the Bradford Bulls, and with the club’s vision, values, support, and investment, I’m excited to see what this season holds for the women." “With a busy year ahead for myself, it’s great to have the club fully behind me and supporting me every step of this journey. I’m looking forward to this new challenge and meeting the team, roll on this season.” Women’s Head of Rugby Rebecca Ball-Knight, who is Available for Sponsorship, said: “I am extremely excited to announce our newest member of staff. Amy plays at the highest level and the career she has had so far exemplifies her commitment to the game. Amy joins us as Women’s Rugby Development Manager and we are thrilled to have her on board." "Her experience of the game, her passion for developing the game and her commitment to leaving a legacy behind make her a perfect match for our Womens/Girls programme. We are over the moon to have her on board and can’t wait to get started.” Jason Hirst, CEO, said: "We are delighted to welcome Amy on board as our Women’s Rugby Development Manager. For me, there’s no bigger name in UK Women’s Rugby League, than Amy. Her record speaks for itself and given that she was an integral part of our all-conquering, unbeaten, treble winning side of 2017, it’s fitting that she’s chosen to return to our club." "I can think of no one better, to inspire and develop the next generation of young female talent in Bradford. By doing so, she will support us in our aim of achieving a Super League return for our Women’s team.”

Anthropic and Atlassian Williams F1 Team announce a multi-year partnership, making Claude the team’s Official Thinking Partner. Claude will be integrated across the entire Williams organisation—working alongside engineers and team strategists to support how the team thinks, plans, and performs across race strategy, car development, and operations. With Formula 1 entering its biggest regulatory change in a generation, Claude will support the team’s ability to make the improvements that count. Claude is Anthropic’s frontier AI — the industry leader in reasoning and safety, trusted by the world’s top enterprises. Teams use Claude to debug reams of code, analyse dense research, and build entirely new products — helping them ask better questions, challenge assumptions, and make clearer decisions under pressure. Williams has built nine Constructors’ Championships on ingenuity and innovation—finding crucial milliseconds that deliver results on track. Like Anthropic, they started as outsiders who believe thinking differently is the key to winning. As one of F1’s few remaining independent teams, that resourcefulness remains central to how they compete. Under Team Principal James Vowles, with drivers Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon, Williams finished fifth last season. Now, Atlassian Williams F1 Team is thinking with Claude as the team enters 2026 with clear ambition: to take the next step towards returning to the front of the grid. Claude branding will appear on Atlassian Williams F1 Team’s FW48 cars, drivers, and team kit starting with the 2026 livery reveal on February 3, ahead of the season opener in Melbourne. This will be the first chapter in a multi-year partnership that both organizations hope will prove the value of thoughtful AI in high-stakes environments. James Vowles, Team Principal, Atlassian Williams F1 Team: “We are thrilled to welcome Anthropic to Atlassian Williams F1 Team and Claude as our Official Thinking Partner. At a time when our team is on a journey to the front, this partnership is an opportunity for us to show what’s possible when you combine elite human talent with the right frontier models. We know that there are no shortcuts to success and look forward to working with Anthropic to continue building long-lasting performance.” Mike Krieger, Co-Lead of Anthropic Labs: “Formula 1 is ultimately about the pairing of human endeavour and technical excellence. I’ve watched Atlassian Williams F1 Team find ways to punch above their weight for years, that’s exactly the kind of team Claude is built for.” Andrew Stirk, Head of Brand Marketing at Anthropic: “We chose Atlassian Williams F1 Team because they’re one of F1’s last truly independent teams - they compete on the quality of their thinking and their attention to detail. When we met James and his team, we recognized that immediately." "They are world class problem solvers, focused on the smallest details, that’s the same drive that animates Anthropic. It’s why this partnership felt right from the first conversation.”

A team of cricketers swapped bats and balls for treble 20s and bullseyes as they staged a darts marathon for charity. The players from Addington Village Cricket Club Adders darts team in West Malling, Kent took to the oche for almost 10 hours and scored 250,000 points. They have so far raised £1,600 for Macmillan Cancer Support, a particularly personal cause as family members of a number of the team have been affected by the disease. One of Britain’s largest charities, Macmillan Cancer Support provides specialist health care, information and financial support to people affected by cancer. The Adders were led by skipper Alex Pollington, Accounts and Business Advisory Services senior in the Maidstone office of UK top 10 accountancy firm Azets. He said: “We originally set out to raise £500 and score 100,000 points, but we thankfully managed to massively exceed that for this worthwhile and vital cause. Hitting 250,000 points – equivalent to around 500 legs of 501 – was a mammoth effort but so worth it." “Many thanks to everyone who took part, those who helped organise the event, Addington Village CC for hosting us and, especially, our very generous supporters who gave willingly for the cause." “It was a great team achievement, and we are very proud to have contributed to such a fantastic cause through the Macmillan Cancer Support Darts Marathon, which has so far raised more than £1.15 million nationally.” The Adders team included Alex, Evan Hutchins, Rhys Derbyshire, James Cornford, Ryan Lucas, James Conway, Reese Thwaites, Liam Burnop, Andrew Montgomerie and Liam Budd. Liam Budd hit five maximum 180s, with Alex, Reese and Liam Burnop achieving one each in the event which ran from 10.15am until finishing on a double at 8pm. Reese also hit the lowest score of zero from three darts – the first two darts fell out of the board and he threw the third on the floor in frustration. They were supported by upcoming 15-year-old Kent junior darts star Teddy Acott who staged a ‘beat the pro’ challenge and was defeated only by Reese Thwaites in an exhibition hour full of 180s and a maximum 170 finish. There are almost 3.5 million people living with cancer in the UK with the number expected to reach four million by 2030. In 2024 Macmillan Cancer Support helped 2.4 million people affected by cancer and supporters raised £239.7 million – 98% of the charity’s total income. Alex added: “On a personal note, several members of my family have had cancer recently including my nan who sadly passed away in 2022 after a short battle with stage four bowel cancer, and other family members also had lung cancer, oesophageal cancer, liver cancer and one had Ewing Sarcoma at a young age which is a very rare form of bone cancer in the face.” James Cornford said: “‘My nan had lung cancer and watching someone you love go through cancer is incredibly hard. It’s not just the illness itself but the uncertainty, the fear, and the emotional toll it takes on the whole family". “During that time, Macmillan was there – offering support, guidance, and reassurance when it was needed most. Macmillan doesn’t just help people medically; they help people cope. So, this fundraiser is my way of giving back and honouring my nan. If my efforts can help even one person feel less alone during their cancer journey, then it’s worth it.” Evan Hutchins added: “My nan has battled two rounds of cancer (Hodgkin’s Lymphoma) and is unfortunately now receiving palliative care. The Macmillan nurses have always been a source of positivity and provided good advice for her and have been cheerful and friendly even in the face of grief they see every day. They are a fantastic organisation, and I am really proud to have helped in a small way.” Reese Thwaites said: “My nan had lung cancer that spread to the spine. This was an important event for me as I wanted to raise money to help find a cure that took someone so special from us.” In his day job at Azets, the UK’s specialist business advisor to SMEs, Alex, who has been with the firm for more than six years, works with clients on strategic planning, compliance assistance and business advisory services. Azets is an international advisory, outsourcing and compliance Group, employing 8,200 people and supporting 100,000-plus clients through its network of 189 offices across Europe. In the UK, Azets is a top ten accountancy and business advisory Group and employs 3,800 people, with more than 70 offices nationwide. Donations are still open click here . Photo: On The Oche - The Addington Village CC Adders darts team, from left, Evan Hutchins, Rhys Derbyshire, Alex Pollington, James Cornford, Ryan Lucas, James Conway, Reese Thwaites, Liam Burnop and Andrew Montgomerie with Kent junior darts star Teddy Acott (front, centre). Liam Budd is not pictured

Rising tax and cost pressures forced more than one in five (21%) SME bosses to lay off staff last year, according to a survey commissioned by Rathbones, one of the UK’s largest wealth and asset management groups.   A targeted poll of more than 1,000 SME founders, owners and senior executives reveals a challenging landscape for business leaders, with cost pressures - including business rates and national insurance contributions - weighing heavily on firms and contributing to redundancies. Nearly six in ten (58%) say rising taxation or regulatory burdens now pose one of the biggest threats to their business, second only to overall rising costs, which are cited by 70% of respondents.   With more than one in four SME leaders reporting that over 25% of their personal wealth is tied up in their business, escalating operational costs are increasingly spilling over into their personal finances.   This pressure is intensified by a sharply rising personal tax burden, they say. Frozen thresholds continue to push more individuals into higher tax bands, while cuts to capital gains and dividend allowances - combined with higher CGT and dividend tax rates - are further squeezing returns. For many SME owners who take profits via dividends, these changes have materially eroded post tax income and are forcing a rethink of longstanding profit extraction strategies.   Faye Church, Senior Financial Planning Director at Rathbones, says: “We consistently hear from business owner clients across the UK that they are determined to grow, hire and contribute to the wider economy. But heightened tax pressures are increasingly stifling those ambitions. Entrepreneurs are being squeezed from both sides — higher taxes at the business level and rising personal tax bills. This double whammy makes it extremely difficult to plan, invest and build for the future."  “For most entrepreneurs, the line between business and personal finances is incredibly thin. Tax changes at either level can have an immediate impact on household income, retirement planning and long-term investment goals. That’s why it’s essential to consider business planning and personal financial planning together, rather than in isolation - particularly in a tax environment that is becoming more complex and less predictable.”   Other key findings include: Flexible capacity is on the rise: 9% have increased their use of freelancers or contractors, and 9% have shifted towards more parttime or flexible roles. More than three in five SME leaders (62%) believe the government does not understand the needs of entrepreneurs. Demand for targeted relief: Over half (51%) say that measures such as business rates relief or adjustments to employer National Insurance contributions would directly support growth and investment.   Hospitality SMEs feeling the sharpest squeeze The tax and cost burden is proving particularly acute in hospitality. More than 35% of hospitality SMEs say they have been forced to make redundancies - significantly above the overall SME average - while 69% say increased taxation or regulatory burden is now one of the biggest threats to their business.   This comes as the sector intensifies its calls for further business rates support. In last year’s Budget, the Chancellor reduced pandemic era business rates relief from 75% to 40%, with the measure due to expire entirely this April. While the government has announced support for pubs, no comparable guarantees have been extended to the wider hospitality industry.   Faye Church adds: “Calls from the hospitality sector for targeted relief highlight the increasingly painful pressures facing these businesses. Without action, the mounting tax and cost burden risks stifling the very growth, innovation and local regeneration the UK economy urgently needs - particularly from a sector that employs so many and contributes so much to communities nationwide.”

Scotland’s largest furniture retailer, Sterling Home, has announced a new collaboration with broadcaster and personality Vogue Williams for an exclusive furniture collection available only through its stores in Scotland. The broadcaster is swapping the studio for sumptuous settees, bringing her expert eye for design and effortlessly blending comfort with style. The collection reflects Williams’ signature style, Irish heritage, and approachable sense of luxury. Euan Graham, Director and 3rd-Generation Family Member at Sterling Home commented: “This partnership brings together Vogue’s creative energy with our commitment to accessible, quality design. Her warmth, authenticity, and enthusiasm for home styling align with our brand values and customer expectations. The resulting range is a considered blend of comfort, colour, and craftsmanship.” Williams shared her excitement about the collaboration. "I've always loved interiors. It's where I get to be creative, there's no right or wrong - it’s just about what brings you joy. It's been so much fun blending striking looks with a collection made for everyday living. It has to work for you and your family, not just look gorgeous! Seeing it land in Sterling Home stores across Scotland was a real 'wow' moment!" The Vogue Williams furniture collection is available now at Sterling Home . Sterling Home, formerly Sterling Furniture, is Scotland's largest furniture retail powerhouse, founded in 1974 by George Knowles in a repurposed Tillicoultry mill that pioneered out-of-town shopping north of the border. Bringing together a curated offering of furniture, accessories, flooring and interiors ensures customers can find everything for their homes under one roof – a concept that makes for a truly unique and forward-thinking shopping experience.  Today, that pioneering vision continues as Sterling Home offers premium sofas, beds, dining sets, and homewares blending timeless craftsmanship with modern style for every budget. Known for Dougie Donnelly’s cheeky TV ads shouting “Tillicoultry, near Stirling,” Sterling Home are respected for delivering quality, exceptional service, and inspiring designs that have furnished Scottish homes for over 50 years.

St Austell Brewery is proud to announce Children’s Hospice South West as its Charity of the Year. The company - which is marking its 175th anniversary this year - has committed to raising vital funds over the next two years for the only children’s hospice charity in its region.   For more than 30 years, Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW) has supported babies, children and young people with life-limiting conditions, providing specialist care and compassionate, professional support for the whole family. Across its three hospices in Cornwall, Devon and North Somerset, CHSW offers far more than medical and nursing care. Every stay is designed to enrich lives, creating precious moments, easing emotional and practical pressures, and helping families make the very most of their time together.   One of St Austell Brewery’s key fundraising initiatives will be donating 25p from every portion of fish and chips sold across its 45 managed pubs, expected to generate a significant contribution to the charity. Alongside this, teams across the company’s head offices, breweries, pubs and depots will be taking part in events and fundraising activities throughout the year.   Kevin Georgel, Chief Executive of St Austell Brewery said: “We’re incredibly proud to announce Children’s Hospice South West as our Charity of the Year. It was chosen by people from every part of our business, which shows just how close this cause is to all our hearts." “It costs more than £14 million each year for the charity to run its three hospices and provide vital care for children and families during unimaginably difficult times. The fact that these hospices span the South West - near our pubs, breweries and depots across the region - gives us a real opportunity to raise as much as we can for the communities we operate in and make a meaningful difference.”   Phil Morris, Chief Executive of Children’s Hospice South West, added: “We are absolutely delighted that St Austell Brewery has chosen Children’s Hospice South West as their charity partner for the next two years. Their commitment and support will help us provide vital services to children with life-limiting conditions and their families who are travelling the most unimaginable journeys.” St Austell Brewery and Children’s Hospice South West are united in their commitment to supporting communities and creating a positive impact across the region, making the new partnership a natural fit. Alongside its Charity of the Year, St Austell Brewery also raises funds for its Charitable Trust, which has donated more than £1 million to local causes - in the places it operates pubs and breweries - since 2003.   For more information about Children’s Hospice South West visit here .

A Lake District hospitality venue is manufacturing its own home-made, flavoured crisps for guests to enjoy in its bar, restaurant and microbrewery.   Wild Boar Estate is producing the crisps which can be served hot or cold with different toppings and sauces as a tasty pre-dinner snack, as well as for bar nibbles and an ideal accompaniment to the craft ales it produces on site.   Head chef Dylan Evans has been developing his crisp making technique with the addition of a special crisp fryer in the Grill and Smokehouse restaurant kitchen at the hotel.   The idea behind the crisp making initiative came from a visit home to Ostrava in the eastern Czech Republic by English Lakes Hotels general manager Adam Bujok, when he happened upon a popular venue which produced its own potato based snacks.   Adam and Dylan discussed and developed the idea before purchasing the crisp making equipment and devising a number of flavours for the venue.  The crisp flavours include black truffle and smoked salt with a classic garlic ketchup, rosemary salt and cider vinegar with a lemon and confit garlic aioli, and smoked paprika and Mexican oregano with a chilli jam.   The restaurant team at Wild Boar Estate cooks up the freshly made crisps to order and is raising its stock levels of potatoes in anticipation of increasing customer demand and interest in the new snacks.  There is also the potential for the venue to produce other types of crisps using alternative root vegetables such as beetroot, carrots, parsnips and sweet potatoes.   Adam explains: “When you open a really good bag of crisps, you often take for granted that wonderful crunch of the first mouthful – and of course we all have our favourite flavours." “On my visit home to Ostrava, I visited a venue where they made their own crisps in a range of flavours and they were great with a beer before dinner.    I thought it’s not something you experience much in the UK and that we could easily do the same and come up with a tasty snack in-house to be paired with our craft ales and become a talking point for our guests.”   Dylan adds: “There’s no special secret ingredients or mysterious techniques in making your own crisps, other than ensuring that that they get cut to the optimum shape and size.  Slicing them as thinly as possible gets the best results.  We leave the skins on and dry the sliced potatoes to get rid of excess starch, before seasoning the crisps using the fryer and associated equipment."  “And there’s really no limit to the number of flavours you can try, so we’re already experimenting with other ingredients and tastes for guests to sample and savour.  No doubt everyone will have their own favourite.”   Photo: Dylan Evans and Adam Bujok from Wild Boar Estate with the venue's new home-made crisps.