Oasis fans anticipate spending a combined total of £1.06bn attending the highly awaited reunion tour, with attendees each planning to splash out an average of £766.222 to see the Gallagher brothers reunite at one of the 17 UK concert dates. Findings from Barclays’ Wonderwallets research show that fans, who are set to spend an average of £171.10 on tickets, Don’t Look Back in Anger at their purchases. Six in 10 (64 per cent) concert goers spent more than they had planned or expected but think the reunion will be worth the additional cost. A quarter (24 per cent) also wish they had spent more on tickets, including better seats or a VIP package, to obtain a better experience. Fans Prepare For A Champagne Supernova Aside from the ticket, attendees will spend the most on accommodation (£108), with other notable costs including travel (£70.50) and clothing (£73.70), with two thirds (67 per cent) planning to purchase accessories or an outfit specifically for the event. Other expenses include an average of £59.70 on official merchandise, as well as £75.20 on pre-concert food and drinks, boosting sales at local hospitality venues. In total, across the 17 UK concerts, Oasis fans attending the Live ’25 tour are predicted to splash out a combined total of £1.06bn to see the Gallagher brothers reunite on stage for the first time in 16 years. This total exceeds the £997m that Barclays estimated would be spent on the UK legs of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour in 20243. On average, Oasis fans predict that they will spend slightly less than Swifties (£766.22 for Oasis vs. £848.30 for Swift), but this is offset by Oasis playing 17 tour stops compared to Swift’s 15, resulting in a higher total overall spend. The Masterplan To Maximise Value In justifying the cost, 16 per cent of fans said they bought Oasis Live ’25 tickets as a gift, while 30 per cent described it as a sentimental purchase, due to the significance that Oasis’ music has played in their life. To make the most of the experience, many plan to embrace other value-add moments before the event, including attending fan-organised meetups (23 per cent), filming TikTok trends (22 per cent) and exchanging Oasis merchandise with other fans (15 per cent). Spending on the Oasis tour is part of the broader trend of consumers prioritising memorable experiences over physical items – otherwise known as the ‘experience economy’ – as almost a quarter (24 per cent) of consumers plan to spend more on experiences and events this summer compared to last summer. Additionally, in an encouraging sign for hospitality and leisure businesses, overall consumer confidence in spending on non-essential items, such as concert tickets, experiences, and other events, spiked to 60 per cent in April 2025, reaching its highest point in three years. Nostalgia Will Live Forever For many attendees, Oasis Live ’25 is a chance to relive the vibrant Manchester music scene of the 90s. Of those who secured tickets to a Manchester tour date, 80 per cent picked the location as their first choice. Meanwhile, a quarter (23 per cent) wanted to get a ticket in Manchester because they believe that seeing Oasis play there is a “quintessential experience” for any fan. While the Oasis reunion has sparked interested from a new generation of fans looking to experience the 90s music scene, a large portion of ticket holders are long time fans. Nearly half of those attending (47 per cent) have seen Oasis play before, and 36 per cent have seen Noel or Liam play separately. More than a quarter of fans (29 per cent) will be embracing nostalgic 90s fashion trends at the event, including baggy jeans, track jackets or sneakers. A fifth (21 per cent) plan to wear an Oasis-themed outfit or accessory – including bucket hats and parkas – and 14 per cent are even intending to get a haircut inspired by Liam or Noel. Just Be Here Now For an authentic 90s experience, one fifth (19 per cent) of attendees are planning to enjoy the gig ‘unplugged’ and avoid using their phones. This trend is more prominent among older generations, with 21 per cent of those aged 35-54 saying they will put their phones away, compared to just 15 per cent of younger attendees. Although some fans are leaning into nostalgia, many ticket holders are ready to document their experience of the Live ’25 tour online. Almost half 45 per cent are planning to capture content to post on social media when they go to the Oasis concert, rising to nearly half of those aged 35-54 (49 per cent). Tom Corbett, Managing Director of Sponsorships and Media at Barclays, said: “As Britain braces for one of the most highly anticipated musical comebacks of all time, Oasis fans are putting their budgets to work to relive a golden era of Britpop." "From new outfits to food and merchandise, ticket holders are showing that when it comes to once-in-a-generation moments, they are more than willing to Roll With It.” Rich Robinson, Head of Hospitality and Leisure at Barclays, said: “The experience economy is no longer a trend, it’s a fundamental shift in how consumers determine their financial priorities. Just as we saw with last year’s Eras Tour, fans are willing to go to great lengths when there is an emotional connection." "For Live ’25 ticket holders, their investment isn’t just about attending the event – it’s about creating lasting memories tied to their cultural icons.”

East Midlands-based civil and structural engineering company BSP Consulting has been appointed on the latest consultancy framework announced by EN:Procure. BSP Consulting is one of 106 successful bidders on the Construction Consultancy Services (Gen-4) Framework run by EN:Procure, the specialist procurement arm of Efficiency North Holdings Limited. Those appointed will work on a range of consultancy and specialist services for construction-related services for public sector, social housing and commercial buildings, and specialist areas such renewable energy services. BSP Consulting has been awarded a place on Lot 3, to provide civil and structural engineering services. MD Carl Hilton said: “We have previously been appointed on the EN-Procure Construction Consultancy Services Framework and are delighted to have been appointed once again." “This is a ringing endorsement of the expertise that the BSP Consulting team brings and we are delighted to be a part of this latest iteration – helping clients to deliver their schemes.” Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) account for 92% of those appointed to the framework, continuing EN:Procure’s ongoing commitment to championing smaller organisations in the sector. Work conducted under this iteration of the framework will take place predominantly across the North West, Yorkshire and Humber, and East Midlands, but may also extend to other areas of the country. It will run for 48 months until 2029. Emma Mottram, director of operations for EN:Procure, said: “The engagement we’ve had on this latest round of tenders has been incredibly high and it’s fantastic to now be able to announce 106 consultants, both new and returning, to the framework. We wanted to give the opportunity to as many businesses as possible and with such a high standard of tender the selection process was a challenge. Those appointed should be incredibly proud." “We always aim to champion SMEs, which was once again a focus for this framework. It’s brilliant to have such impressive SMEs appointed and we look forward to working with them, alongside the other expert consultants, to deliver outstanding consultancy services and achieve robust ESG targets.” Based in Nottingham and with offices in Derby, Leicester and Sheffield, BSP Consulting is one of the largest independent civil and engineering firms in the East Midlands. It is an award-winning firm that operates across the UK, offering civil engineering, structural engineering, transport engineering, geotechnical and environmental engineering. The company works across all sectors including housing, student accommodation, commercial, industrial, health, education, senior living, retail and heritage.

Ealing Trailfinders are thrilled to announce the signing of Francesca McGhie, one of rugby’s most exciting young talents. A 22-year-old from Edinburgh, McGhie is renowned for her blistering pace and sharp attacking threat to Trailfinders Women. After securing the Tennent’s Premiership with Watsonians in the 2022-23 season, McGhie’s rapid rise saw her nominated for World Rugby’s Breakthrough Player of the Year in 2023. She then went on to join Leicester Tigers ahead of their inaugural campaign in Premiership Women’s Rugby, where she has continued her impressive ascension in the sport. On the international stage, McGhie has already made a significant impact, earning 22 caps for Scotland since making her debut in the 2023 Six Nations against England at Kingston Park, scoring 10 tries along the way. McGhie started every game for her national side in the 2025 Six Nations, scoring two tries in the tournament – including a last gasp effort in a 26-19 win over Ireland. Speaking on her move, McGhie said: “There’s a great ambition here, and there are people and coaches here that I think can add to my game - I feel this is a team I can really develop with. I’m looking forward to joining up with the group and I’m excited to see what we can do together.” Barney Maddison, Head Coach, added: “Francesca is a hugely exciting talent with incredible potential. She’s already proven herself at the international level, and her speed, agility, and attacking instincts will be a great asset for us. We’re delighted to have her on board."

Ealing Trailfinders Rugby Club are thrilled to announce the signing of Canadian full-back Claire Gallagher ahead of the new season. Gallagher joins from fellow Premiership Women’s Rugby side Leicester Tigers, where she featured alongside newly announced Trailfinders, Meg Jones and Francesca McGhie. Since winning her first international cap in 2023 against New Zealand the Canadian playmaker has further honed her craft, developing her skills to become an ever-bright option for the all-action Maple Leafs. A technically gifted player, Gallagher is comfortable with ball in hand and also possesses a strong kicking game. Her ability to read a defence and execute in high-pressure situations make her a valuable addition to the Trailfinders’ backline. On signing for the club, Gallagher said: “I first became interested in joining Trailfinders after having played against them the past two seasons and liking their playing style and freedom on the pitch. What reassured my decision was hearing from my Canadian teammates how awesome the team culture is and the buy-in from the group. I’m looking forward to playing my part.” Head Coach, Barney Maddison, commented: “Claire is an exciting addition to our squad. Her experience at the international level will be invaluable, and we’re looking forward to seeing her make an impact.”

Property consultancy Vail Williams LLP has announced a change in leadership with Managing Partner, Matthew Samuel-Camps, stepping down after a decade at the helm. Danny George has taken on the role as Managing Partner (1 June 2025), marking the start of a new chapter for the firm as it concludes a successful 10-year growth strategy. Matthew joined Vail Williams as a graduate in 1988 and rose up the ranks to became Managing Partner in 2015. During his tenure, Matthew led the business through a period of sustained geographical expansion – both organic and acquisitive – which saw him orchestrate the firm’s entry in several new markets including Oxford (2024) and Bournemouth (2021). Through his delivery of three consecutive business plans, Matthew has overseen the doubling of Vail Williams’ turnover which is expected to exceed £21m for the first time this year, whilst also developing new service lines which have contributed to the growth of the team by 50% to 175 people today. Reflecting on his time as Managing Partner at the firm’s recent annual conference, Matthew said: “Vail Williams has gone from being a business with great potential to a confident, high-performing consultancy with purpose and pride. The foundations we have built have turned ambition into major achievements – both for our clients and our people - including accreditation as an Investors in People Gold business." “When I became Managing Partner, I had a personal goal to achieve a sustainable turnover of at least £20m within 10 years, but not just any old way - the right way - to ensure we could create a compelling, values-driven business to be proud of." “As I step down, I do so having achieved that goal and so much more, thanks to the unwavering support of our clients and our people. For that, I am both incredibly grateful and proud.” Today, the firm operates from nine offices and is on course to exceed its long-term financial and strategic goals, making it the perfect time to hand over the reins. Matthew concludes: “Our business is in the right place for a fresh perspective – for someone who brings new energy and who, like me, has their sights firmly on the future. I couldn’t be more delighted that the person taking over is Danny George.” Danny, a Partner and member of the Executive Board, took up the leadership role on 1 June with a clear mandate to guide the business through its next growth phase. He joined Vail Williams as an Associate in 2016 when the firm acquired business rates specialists Bisset Moffatt Hill and quickly rose up through the ranks to Partner in 2018 before being made lead partner for the firm’s business rates practice in 2019. By 2020, he was made Regional Managing Partner for the Gatwick region and led on a significant corporate values project which has become the cornerstone of the business’ culture, before being promoted to the Executive Board in 2023. Danny said: “It’s a privilege to follow in the footsteps of Matthew, whose leadership has transformed Vail Williams over the past decade. I’m excited to build on that legacy and lead a firm that continues to put people and purpose at the heart of everything it does.” The change in leadership comes as Vail Williams launches a new three-year business plan aimed at further innovation, service excellence and sustainable growth. He adds: “We have achieved our goals for the business over the past 10 years, in spite of some challenging times, and this gives us the perfect platform to continue our growth trajectory. “The real success of Vail Williams has been in the development of our culture and identity as a trusted adviser. This is what I intend to build on in my role as Managing Partner, making smart, strategic decisions with purpose, which will further enhance our services to clients.” But, Danny says, it won’t be about change for change’s sake. “Our clients can expect business as usual, but as we look ahead, we do so with a firm eye on exceptional client service delivered by a team which is committed to remaining people-centric, innovative, and collaborative.” “Of course, the world is evolving, complex global affairs, economic challenges, changes in the way businesses work, digitisation and the yet to be fully understood implications of AI all present potential challenges to businesses like ours – but with challenge also comes opportunity, and I’m incredibly excited about what is to come.” Danny took up the role of Managing Partner on 1 June 2025, whereupon Matthew took on a new role as Chair. Photo: CHANGE AT THE TOP: Matthew Samuel-Camps, left, who has stepped down after a decade as Managing Partner at property consultancy Vail Williams, with Danny George, who has been appointed to succeed him. Matthew has taken on a new role as the firm’s Chair

One of the UK’s leading manufacturers of engineered timber components, Donaldson Timber Engineering Ltd (DTE), is proud to have been awarded Supplier of the Year by leading housebuilder, Taylor Wimpey. Beating competition from the entire Taylor Wimpey supply chain of more than 100 suppliers, the award is given to the team with the highest KPI score for the year. Every Taylor Wimpey site across the country scores each of its suppliers every quarter, based on a set of key criteria, covering performance areas such as quality, service and health and safety.   The award was presented to DTE managing director, Luke Roberts and technical director, Oli James at the Taylor Wimpey annual supplier’s conference in Birmingham. Supplier of the Year was the only award given during the day.   DTE supplies joists and roof trusses to sites across the UK for the national housebuilder, with all nine DTE branches delivering products to Taylor Wimpey.   Luke Roberts, Managing Director at DTE, said: “Oli and I were immensely proud to attend the Taylor Wimpey conference and collect this award. We’re committed to always doing an excellent job for our customers, providing high quality products and service, so it’s fantastic to be recognised for consistently doing an excellent job for our customers. We supply a large amount of our products to Taylor Wimpey sites, which we deliver on time, to the highest standards and with excellent service. This award is not just for a single piece of work well done, but for a strong standardised approach across the country and that makes me very proud indeed." “Every single person at DTE is involved in the work we do for Taylor Wimpey in some way, so this is truly a full team effort. I would like to thank everyone at Taylor Wimpey who helped us achieve this award, and especially everyone at DTE who worked hard every day offering a high level of customer service, excellent manufactured products and value adding designs.”   Julie Arucci, Group Procurement Director at Taylor Wimpey said: “Our suppliers and subcontractors play a crucial role in our business, including in the construction of our homes, so we set clear standards on issues such as safety, quality and environmental performance and work closely with them to ensure consistently high quality." “We’re thrilled to be able to reward DTE as our top scoring supplier of the year, recognising the excellent part they play in our trusted supply chain.”   DTE is the UK’s longest established manufacturer and supplier of roof trusses, open web joists and I-joists, with a regional network of nine branches across the UK. It is part of the 165-year-old Donaldson Group. Currently led by the sixth generation of Donaldson, the Group comprises a total of 16 specialist timber and building product businesses and brands, operating throughout the UK.

Staffordshire tennis clubs are to benefit from life-saving training after digger giant JCB served up a £500 donation to support an ongoing first aid programme.   Staffordshire Tennis, which supports 48 tennis clubs across the county, is creating a series of first aid cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) hubs which will help train coaches and players in life-saving skills. The hubs will be supported by First Responder Chris Godwin who will arrange regular sessions for clubs, coaches and the wider community to provide vital skills needed to deliver early intervention and CPR treatment.   Martyn Rock Tennis Development Coordinator at Staffordshire Tennis, said: “Unfortunately, cardiac incidents can happen anywhere and knowing what to do in those first few seconds is vital - it can literally save a life. As coaches we are all trained in CPR as part of the coaching course." "However, we realised that it would be beneficial to refresh this knowledge regularly and help raise awareness of the benefits of learning life-saving skills like CPR. We couldn’t be more grateful to JCB for its support in making sure we now have all the equipment needed to provide regular training sessions to support our players and wider tennis community.”   JCB’s donation has gone towards the £2,000 needed to provide training equipment including two CPR mannequins which will help participants to understand what it feels like to deliver CPR, what they need to do and how to make those first few seconds in an emergency count. Staffordshire Tennis works with the Lawn Tennis Association, the national governing body for tennis, to grow the sport across the county and create opportunities at all levels and ages to play racquet sports. More information on CPR training opportunities and the work Staffordshire Tennis is doing is available here.   Photo Caption: Members of Stone Tennis Club take part in the first CPR training session for Staffordshire Tennis. Pictured left-to-right are Roy Williams Partnership Co-ordinator at Staffordshire Tennis, First Responder Chris Godwin, Graham Cole Chairman of Staffordshire Tennis, Paul Baldwin Chairman of Stone Tennis Club and Clive Paddison Treasurer at Staffordshire Tennis.

As spring and summer roll in, so do the dreaded symptoms of hay fever—itchy eyes, sneezing fits, and a runny nose that won’t quit. For many allergy sufferers, relief often comes from over-the-counter antihistamines. But did you know that nature might offer a gentler, food-based alternative? Enter quercetin—a plant compound with natural antihistamine properties—and one of its best sources: a British apple. That’s right, British apples could help with hay fever symptoms. What is quercetin? Quercetin is a flavonoid—a type of antioxidant—that’s found in a variety of fruits and vegetables. It’s well known for its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and immune-boosting effects. But perhaps one of its most interesting benefits is its role as a natural antihistamine. Histamine is the chemical your immune system releases during allergic reactions. It’s what causes all the classic hay fever symptoms. Quercetin helps by stabilizing the cells that release histamine (called mast cells), effectively reducing the severity of allergic responses. Apples: A tasty source of allergy relief While quercetin is found in onions, berries, and green tea, British apples are one of the most accessible—and delicious—sources. In fact, the skin of British apples – because it’s often red – contains particularly high concentrations of quercetin, making them an ideal daily snack for allergy sufferers. A medium-sized apple can contain up to 10 mg of quercetin. Eating British apples regularly may help reduce the frequency and intensity of hay fever symptoms over time. Pro tip: Don’t peel your British apples! Most of the quercetin is concentrated in the skin. What the science says Emerging research supports quercetin’s role in allergy relief: A study published in In Vivo found that quercetin inhibited the release of histamine and reduced inflammatory responses in allergic mice. Another study in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology showed that quercetin had bronchodilator effects, which may help people with allergic asthma or hay fever-induced wheezing. Though more human trials are needed to confirm these effects, early results are promising. Final thoughts While quercetin won’t replace allergy medications for everyone, it’s a powerful natural compound worth considering—especially when it’s found in something as easy to eat as a British apple. Combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle, increasing your intake of quercetin-rich foods could help you manage hay fever symptoms more naturally and comfortably. So the next time your nose starts tingling and your eyes begin to itch, reach for a British apple. Your immune system just might thank you. For more on the health benefits of British apples, explore apple health benefits.

Championing Nature, a new programme aimed at creating positive, lasting impact in communities through greater connections and engagement with nature, has launched. The multi-million-pound programme will be delivered by four Wildlife Trusts: the London Wildlife Trust; Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust; the Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside; and Northumberland Wildlife Trust. During the next six years, these Wildlife Trusts will each receive investment from The All England Lawn Tennis Club and Emirates to fund bespoke projects and initiatives in their local urban areas, with a particular focus on bringing disadvantaged children, young people aged 16-24, and families closer to nature, and creating a lasting infrastructure legacy for the benefit of future generations. Research conducted on behalf of the four Wildlife Trusts indicated that roughly one out of eight children from low socio-economic backgrounds aged under 12 has never experienced nature. Lack of green space facilities nearby (21%) and the cost of transport (17%) to get to the nearest green space facilities were identified by parents as two of the key barriers to their children spending more time in nature. Parents identified improved mood (48%), overall happiness (48%), more active (42%) and better physical health (35%) as the top positive changes within their children after they had spent time in nature. Championing Nature was officially launched at the AELTC’s Community Tennis Centre at Raynes Park, with representatives of the four Wildlife Trusts, All England Club and Emirates joined by programme ambassador Steve Backshall MBE to mark a collective commitment to creating lasting change through positive community engagement and increased connection to nature. Steve Backshall MBE, who is renowned for his lifelong passion and commitment to nature, said: “I’ve seen first-hand the remarkable benefits that a closer connection to nature and the outdoors can provide. The Championing Nature programme is a great opportunity to encourage children, young people and families living in urban environments to discover and explore the green spaces around them. Through my role as President of Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust, I’m familiar with the fantastic work these organisations do to protect wildlife and enhance the natural environment. The four Wildlife Trusts have some exciting plans ready to roll out, thanks to the support of the Championing Nature programme, and I am looking forward to seeing the positive difference they will make to the lives of many.” London Wildlife Trust Charlie Sims, Director of Visitor Experience at London Wildlife Trust, said: “Connecting people with nature isn’t as simple as opening the gates—it’s about removing physical, social, and financial barriers to accessing wild spaces. It also means creating relevant and inclusive programmes that help everyone feel a genuine sense of belonging in nature. This funding enables us to accelerate our Learning & Engagement work and bring wildlife back to the heart of communities across London.” The funding will be used to support the running of London Wildlife Trust’s Wild About Learning outdoor education programme for schools and families. Each year, with this generous funding the Trust will run 150 school sessions reaching more than 5,600 pupils, and deliver more than 250 family learning sessions for 2,500 children. London Wildlife Trust will also install a nature play and learning space at Woodberry Wetlands in Hackney in 2026 and a sensory wildlife garden and education hub at Gunnersbury Triangle in Hounslow in 2028. Visit here : Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust Delia Garratt, Chief Executive said: “We are incredibly excited at the opportunity that Championing Nature provides to us. The funding offered through Championing Nature will enable Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust to deliver deeply rewarding education and engagement activity to some of the most at risk and nature deprived young people in England, enabling these young people to release the immense benefits that can be had from a connection to the natural world.” Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust will use the funds provided by Championing Nature to deliver a wide-ranging new programme of education and community engagement. The Trust will offer interactive nature based education sessions to schools in Birmingham, prioritising schools with the lowest access to green space. We will also create a new year round series of nature focused outreach events open to young people and the wider community. Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust will also invest in a major overhaul of our iconic environmental education site, Centre of the Earth. Visit here. Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside Rory Andrews, Greater Manchester nature recovery manager said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to be working on this exciting new partnership. This collaboration will provide a huge boost for both people and nature in Wythenshawe—helping to create greener, healthier spaces and inspiring more local residents to connect with the natural world on their doorstep". “Together, we’re laying the foundations for lasting change that will benefit communities and wildlife for years to come.” Using the funding, the Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside will support a transformative community-driven initiative that addresses the decline of nature in the Wythenshawe area of Greater Manchester, fostering a sense of collective responsibility and belonging by empowering the community, and children, young people and families in particular, to care for local wildlife and green spaces. This will include learning workshops, school partnerships, skill development, community volunteering, habitat restoration and species recording, with the aim of creating a nature corridor through this urban environment. Visit here . Northumberland Wildlife Trust Northumberland Wildlife Trust covers the areas of Newcastle upon Tyne, North Tyneside as well as Northumberland. Championing Nature is primarily focussed on our urban and suburban areas, where access to nature is more challenging. Mike Pratt, Chief Executive, commented: “This new partnership is an amazing opportunity to scale up our efforts to engage urban communities with nature as never before. Championing Nature is ambitious and long term in its approach so we can enable communities to connect to wild places in more meaningful ways. It will be an ongoing celebration of how transformative connecting with nature can be in everyone’s daily lives." “We are very excited to be part of this journey to increasing nature awareness and appreciation and the wellbeing of people from all backgrounds.” Northumberland Wildlife Trust will increase nature connection for children and young people through educator upskilling, school partnerships, nature reserve visits and a youth activism programme. The Trust is in the final stages of tendering for the provision of managing a section of a much-loved country park in North Tyneside for the next 40 years. If the Trust is successful, they will co-design the investment with the local community which would go towards improved engagement infrastructure within the section they will manage. Visit here . Emirates was announced as an Official Partner of The Championships in 2024, extending its long-standing support of tennis into a fourth decade and complementing its existing Grand Slam partnerships with the Australian Open, Roland-Garros and US Open. Commenting on the launch of the Championing Nature initiative, Sir Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline said: "We’re passionate about our sport sponsorships going beyond the game to give back to the communities we serve. Championing Nature brings the worlds of sport, nature conservation and travel together in a way that we hope will inspire engagement with thousands of young people across the U.K. These four Wildlife Trusts are doing incredible work to protect nature and help people connect with it and through this unique partnership we hope to have a positive impact for generations to come.” Deborah Jevans CBE, Chair of the All England Club, said: “Wimbledon is known for its ‘tennis in an English garden’ setting and our focus on horticulture and biodiversity around our Grounds is part of what makes The Championships so special. We believe that the All England Club has a meaningful role to play in achieving a positive environmental impact, but we know this is not achievable on our own. That’s why we are delighted to be working in partnership with Emirates and four Wildlife Trusts on Championing Nature, a programme that demonstrates our shared commitment to connect people across the country with nature and to protect our natural world.”

Solgar, Nestlé Health Science brand of vitamins and supplements, is thrilled to announce Dame Kelly Holmes, the Olympic legend and double gold medallist, as the official Ambassador for its Wellness Partnership with The Great Run Series, 2025. As part of this exciting partnership, Dame Kelly Holmes will support runners on their journey to race day by sharing her expertise and experience in training, race day preparation, and recovery through engaging content across her own and Solgar channels. She hopes to inspire and guide participants to reach their fitness goals whilst prioritising wellness every step of the way. The Great Run Series is known for its celebrated series of runs around the UK, including the much anticipated Great Manchester Run and the iconic Great North Run, both of these events will feature Dame Kelly in person. As part of her role, she will be on-site to meet with fans, interact with the participants, and support the Solgar Pacers in their mission to motivate runners and help them achieve their race day goal. Be it achieve a personal best, or simply cross the line of their first 10K or Half-marathon! Dame Kelly Holmes said: “As someone who knows the importance of consistency and quality in looking after your health, becoming the Ambassador for Solgar in its partnership of this year's The Great Run series is an absolute joy." “Solgar and its focus on supporting people’s wellness journey, whether they’re going for a personal best in a half marathon or just starting out, really resonated with me. It’s not just about the big win in the big race but it’s also about the small every day wins and those moments of self-care that keep us happy and healthy." As part of the collaboration, Dame Kelly will also help raise awareness about the range of high-quality Solgar products that support active lifestyles, particularly in the areas of energy, performance, and recovery. Helen Davis at Solgar said: "At Solgar, we are committed to supporting people’s wellness journey, and we are thrilled to have Dame Kelly Holmes on board to guide and inspire our running community." "Her dedication to fitness and well-being, combined with her experience as an elite athlete, makes her the perfect ambassador for this exciting partnership now in its third year." The Solgar and Dame Kelly Holmes partnership is set to inspire a new wave of runners to prioritise wellness throughout their training and beyond, ensuring they can achieve their full potential with the right nutrition, recovery, and mindset.

Manufacturers warn that upcoming Industrial Strategy will be fatally flawed unless sky-high energy costs are tackled 1. Industrial energy costs in the UK are currently four times as high as the US and 46% above global average 2. Ministers should remove regressive policy levies from energy bills to slash costs 3. And create a fixed electricity price to put British manufacturers on a level playing field with international competitors 4. Upcoming Industrial Strategy needs to address this fundamental domestic weakness if it is going to stimulate economic growth   Key findings: 1. To unleash UK manufacturing’s full potential in driving growth, and commit to electrifying industry, Government must urgently reform the unfair policy levies that make low-carbon energy more expensive than fossil fuels. 2. One of the main reasons for high electricity prices for UK industry - compared to European counterparts is the decision to place most policy levies directly onto electricity bills. 3. Removing the policy levies would cut energy costs for manufacturers by 15%. 4. Government would agree a fixed price for manufacturing (a Contract for Difference) If the GB wholesale price went above the fixed price, government would pay manufacturers and subsidise their energy costs. If it went below the fixed price, manufacturers would pay back the difference to Government. 5. Britain’s manufacturers are today calling on the Government to commit to cutting industrial energy costs as part of its long-awaited Industrial Strategy, allowing manufacturing to grow to its full potential and avoid a looming period of de-industrialisation.   Make UK has made it clear that an ambitious and effective industrial strategy is not optional. It is essential to ensuring the UK remains competitive, secure, and economically productive in the coming years. For that strategy to make the impact manufacturers across Britain desperately need, it must address the energy crisis that leaves firms at a massive competitive disadvantage. With industrial energy prices four times those in the US and 46% above the global average, the Government must act now.   A new report, Tackling Industrial Energy Costs, published today by Make UK sets out solutions which the Government should place at the heart of the strategy, which are both deliverable and costed. In particular it urges Government urgently to reform the complex and unfair policy levies that make low-carbon energy more expensive than fossil fuels.   These costly policy levies are currently applied only to UK industrial bills and not across the rest of Europe. Making this change would cut energy costs by 15% immediately. If coupled with an agreed a fixed energy price for Britian’s manufacturers, the resulting cost reduction would be significant. Both sides would take risk here. Government would pay manufacturers the difference if the cost of energy went above the agreed “strike” price, with manufacturers paying Government if the cost of energy fell lower than the agreed fixed rate.   Make UK recommends that the electricity price £56/MWH which equates to a 10% reduction in retail prices paid by manufacturers. When the savings are added to those gained by removing the policy levies from bills, UK manufacturers would be on a par with European industrial energy bills.   Stephen Phipson, CEO Make UK said: “If we do not address the issue of high industrial energy costs in the UK as a priority, we risk the security of our country. We will fail to attract investment in the manufacturing sector and will rapidly enter a phase of renewed de-industrialisation." UK manufacturers have faced energy prices far above those of European competitors for many years, undermining their ability to invest, grow, and compete globally.   More inaction risks compounding this disadvantage and forcing the government to make difficult choices over costly bailouts) or managed decline of the UK manufacturing sector. Today we have set out a clear package of deliverable, sensible, and popular policies to tackle this issue with the urgency it requires.”   Alan Johnson, Senior Vice President for Manufacturing, Supply Chain and Purchasing AMIEO, Nissan Motor Corp. said: “The Nissan Sunderland manufacturing plant has the highest energy costs of all Nissan plants across the globe. The proposals being put forward by Make UK - under the umbrella of a new Industrial Strategy - would send a strong message to investors that the UK remains committed to creating a more competitive environment for electric vehicle manufacturing.”

Manufacturing output volumes fell in the three months to May, at the joint-steepest pace since August 2020, according to the CBI’s latest monthly Industrial Trends Survey (ITS). Looking ahead, output is expected to fall further over the three months to August. Total order books weakened marginally in May, relative to April, while export order books improved from a sharply negative reading last month. But both total and export order books remain well below their long-run averages. Manufacturing firms reported that stock adequacy for finished goods was largely unchanged from last month, with the balance standing close to the long-run average. Expectations for selling price inflation over the coming quarter were broadly similar to last month, remaining above the long-run average.  The survey, based on the responses of 281 manufacturers, found: Output volumes fell in the three months to May at the joint-steepest pace since August 2020 (weighted balance of -25%, the same as in December 2024, and down from -2% in the quarter to April). Manufacturing firms expect output volumes to decline again in the three months to August (-14%). Output decreased in 13 out of 17 sub-sectors in the three months to May, with the fall in output being driven by the metal products, food, drink & tobacco and mechanical engineering sub-sectors. Total order books were reported as below “normal” in May (-30% from -26% in April). The level of order books remained far below the long-run average (-14%). Export order books were also below “normal” but improved relative to last month (-29% from -41%). The balance still stands below the long-run average (-18%). Expectations for average selling price inflation in May were broadly similar to last month (+26% from +23%). Expectations remain above the long-run average (+7%). Stocks of finished goods were reported as more than “adequate” in May (+10% from +13% in April), with stock adequacy standing close to the long-run average (+12%). Ben Jones, CBI Lead Economist, said: “Sentiment among UK manufacturers seems poor, reflecting a combination of rising domestic business costs and US tariff uncertainty. Many respondents to the survey reported a reluctance to spend among their customers." “Although there are some bright spots, notably aerospace and renewable energy, the sector as a whole is reporting that their order books remain weak, and this is expected to weigh on output volumes through the summer." “While the government has taken steps to boost UK competitiveness on the global stage by striking trade deals with India, the US and a UK-EU reset, more action is needed to shift the dial." “Businesses are facing pressure from high energy costs, rising labour costs and the threat of extra regulation with the Employment Rights Bill coming down the track. Government must avoid further burdening business while simultaneously building confidence through the launch of an innovative Industrial Strategy." “At a time of heightened global economic uncertainty this could really help to promote the UK as an attractive and stable environment for investment, which is critical for driving long-term, sustainable growth.”