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  • Clifton Ingram Appoints Leasehold Specialist As New Partner

    Leading law firm Clifton Ingram is delighted to announce the appointment of Sam Fellows as a Partner within its Dispute Resolution team, effective May 5th. Sam joins the firm with a well-developed specialism in leasehold enfranchisement and statutory lease extensions, bringing highly sought-after expertise to Clifton Ingram at a time when demand for specialist leasehold advice is rising across the country. Clifton Ingram is a well-established, full-service law firm ranked in the Legal 500, with offices in Farnham, Reading and Wokingham. The firm advises businesses and private clients across Surrey, Berkshire and beyond, and has built a strong reputation for the quality and depth of its property and dispute resolution practices. Sam’s appointment at the Farnham office comes at a significant moment for leasehold law. The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 has introduced potentially wide-ranging changes affecting leaseholders, landlords, and managing agents, and the ongoing implementation of further reform measures continues to create complexity for property owners, leaseholders and businesses alike. Against this backdrop, Sam’s expertise in leasehold enfranchisement, statutory lease extensions under the Leasehold Reform, Housing and Urban Development Act 1993, and rights of first refusal under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1987 represents a timely addition to the firm. Jonathan Foulds, Managing Partner and Head of Commercial Property at Clifton Ingram, said, “Sam’s specialist knowledge in leasehold matters is a genuinely valuable addition to the team. The legal landscape for leaseholders and landlords has grown considerably more complex in recent years, and his appointment strengthens our ability to meet the rising demand for expert advice in this area across the region.” Alongside his leasehold specialism, Sam brings more than ten years of broader property litigation experience to the role, covering restrictive covenants, break options, boundary disputes, adverse possession, trespass, and rights of way among others. He has managed substantial litigation from initial instruction through to trial throughout his career, and has built strong internal and external referral networks and self-sufficient work pipelines at each firm he has joined. Sam trained at Maples Teesdale LLP in the City of London before developing his litigation practice at Iliffes Booth Bennett LLP in Uxbridge, where he spent six years handling high-value County and High Court proceedings. He has since held senior roles at Field Seymour Parkes LLP in Reading and Knights in Weybridge, where he was promoted to Senior Associate in 2023 and built and ran a caseload of residential and commercial property work. Sam commented, “Leasehold law is going through a period of significant change, and that is creating real complexity for property owners, leaseholders and businesses who need clear, practical advice. I am looking forward to bringing my experience in this area to Clifton Ingram and working with clients across the region to help them understand their rights and options as the legal landscape continues to evolve.” Clifton Ingram’s property litigation team operates from offices in Farnham, Reading and Wokingham. To find out more, contact the firm here.

  • Neurodiverse Entrepreneur Builds Thriving Candle Business

    An Edinburgh-based entrepreneur is turning creativity into commercial success, as her handcrafted candle business continues to grow with support from Business Gateway. Bonnie Glow, founded by Emily Streete, creates handmade candles and wax melts inspired by Scotland’s culture, language and humour. Crafted in Edinburgh using sustainable vegan ingredients, the products are designed to offer high-quality fragrance with a distinctive Scottish personality, appealing to individual customers and retail partners alike. Sustainability is at the heart of Bonnie Glow, with Emily recently introducing a refill scheme that allows customers to return used tins at markets in exchange for a discount on their next purchase, while all packaging and wrapping is created using upcycled materials. Since launching, the business has grown steadily, securing its first retail listing in the city and attracting interest from other stockists keen to offer locally made, authentic products. Alongside its core range, Bonnie Glow also offers personalised candles for weddings, celebrations and gifts, as well as wholesale opportunities for independent retailers. Emily is also a regular trader at markets across the city, including Grassmarket, Stockbridge, Leith and Portobello markets, helping to build a loyal local customer base. For Emily, launching Bonnie Glow marked a significant personal milestone. Diagnosed with ADHD earlier this year, she has navigated the challenges of neurodiversity while channelling the creativity that has become central to her business. Drawing on a background in music and performance, she built the brand from scratch, developing everything from product concepts to branding herself. Business Gateway proved to be the catalyst that took Bonnie Glow from passion project to scalable business. Working with adviser Lee Briggs, Emily accessed one-to-one guidance across business planning, company regulations, tax and marketing. She also took part in workshops focused on marketing strategy and growth, and recently applied for additional support through the Expert Help programme. This guidance has helped Emily build confidence in running her business, develop effective promotional strategies and identify opportunities to increase sales and grow her customer base. It has also provided valuable networking opportunities, connecting her with other local businesses and support organisations. Emily Streete, founder of Bonnie Glow, said: “I’ve always had lots of ideas and creativity, but structure and organisation didn’t come naturally to me. Bonnie Glow has given me a way to focus that energy into something real and sustainable." “Working with Business Gateway has helped me build confidence and put clear plans in place to grow the business. Having that support and guidance, especially in the early stages, has made a huge difference.” Lee Briggs, Business Gateway adviser, said: “Emily’s journey is a great example of how tailored support can help founders play to their strengths. She has a huge amount of creative instinct, and once we worked in a way that suited her strengths, the business really started to flourish." “Seeing the confidence Emily now brings to decision making and long term planning has been genuinely rewarding.” Business Gateway Edinburgh offers tailored support for neurodiverse founders, including dedicated advice, resources and specialist workshops designed to reflect different ways of thinking and working. This includes practical sessions such as marketing support for neurodiverse minds, helping entrepreneurs build confidence, develop strategies that play to their strengths and access guidance in a supportive environment. To find out more about how Business Gateway can help your business, visit here.

  • Nottingham Drivers ‘In The Fast Lane’ With Official EV2 Launch

    Nottinghamshire drivers are now in pole position for electric driving after the all new Kia EV2 arrived at NK Motors in Chilwell for the first time. The highly anticipated EV2 made its local debut during a successful three-day First Drive Weekend from Thursday, May 21 to Saturday, May 23, with customers invited to get behind the wheel and experience Kia’s newest electric vehicle up close through exclusive walkarounds and personal test drives. As Kia’s most compact electric SUV to date, the EV2 has already generated major excitement thanks to its bold design, urban practicality and impressive technology. Designed specifically for modern city lifestyles, the EV2 combines compact dimensions with a surprisingly spacious cabin, flexible interior layout and up to 362 litres of boot space. Drivers visiting the launch were also introduced to the EV2’s advanced technology package, including Kia’s latest infotainment system, wireless smartphone charging, adaptive cruise control and advanced driver assistance systems. Premium models also feature Harman Kardon audio, flush door handles and Kia’s signature Star Map lighting design. The EV2 offers up to 281 miles of electric range depending on specification, while rapid charging capability allows the battery to charge from 10 to 80 per cent in around 30 minutes, making it ideal for both everyday commuting and longer journeys. Customers can also benefit from a £1,500 Electric Car Grant, helping make the switch to electric driving even more accessible. Managing director at NK Motors, Sanj Kumar said: “The EV2 has really accelerated interest in electric driving across Nottinghamshire. Customers are looking for an EV that feels stylish, practical and achievable, and the EV2 delivers on every level.” He added: “There was a fantastic atmosphere throughout the launch weekend, and the response has been incredibly positive. Once customers experienced the space, technology and performance for themselves, it was clear the EV2 is going to be a real game changer in the compact EV market.” The first edition EV2 is available now at NK Motors Chilwell, with additional models expected later this year. For more information, please visit here.

  • Professional Landscape Gardener Introduces Ancient Practices

    “The readings help you to align your outdoor space with the life you want to lead.” - Connor Healy A Solihull entrepreneur, who credits numerology with getting his life back on track, is believed to be the first in the UK to now offer it as part of his landscape gardening service. Connor Healy has introduced the personalised garden mapping, also incorporating astrology and feng shui, which he claims is leaving clients feeling better about their gardens – despite some initial scepticism. The move has been triggered by recent mental health battles for the 31-year-old who is now determined to pass on his new-found knowledge for the benefit of his Healy Garden Design customers. All these practices are rooted in ancient and divine beliefs around the relationships with numbers, energy flow, elements and celestial cycles. The launch of his business, eight years ago, marked a return to the trade for Connor who discovered his green fingers as young as two years old, helping his dad’s business in the summer holidays. It had been after several unfulfilling roles in sales and retail that led him back to pursue his own independent entrepreneurial ambitions. He started out by mowing lawns, eventually responding to customer requests for other gardening services and soon growing to take on permanent staff, Ashton Box and Astley Meadows, both from Redditch. But it was Connor’s own personal journey of healing – and a triple diagnosis of ADHD, autism and diabetes - that led him to launch this latest chapter – which he claims is unique among the trade. He said: “I had grown the business so much that I couldn't manage it and it came to a point where I didn't know how to deal with it anymore and kept burning out. I couldn't understand why." “I would tend to catastrophise over every little thing while trying to manage expectations of customers and employees, as well as facing financial struggle. I was just moving forward without direction. I almost felt like my mind was scattered. And because of the hormone imbalance with the diabetes, and then with the ADHD and autism, I think it all just became too much to navigate." “But the diagnoses did answer a few questions and, in particular, helped me understand that as you put systems into business, you also need to put systems into yourself. Habits, values etc. are so, important.” Numerology is the mystical study of the numerical vibrations behind numbers, letters, and symbols, often used to understand personality, life purpose, and future cycles. Rooted in the belief that all things are interconnected numerically, it uses a person's birth date and name to calculate core numbers - most notably the Life Path Number - which reveal insights. Determined to share his numerology knowledge with as many as possible, Connor has also reaches out to people online in need of support. And, this month, he launched his new Numerical Profiling website. “I really love trying to teach people about this, because it's helped me understand my patterns, and I take great reward in seeing how it can help others. I realised I could also use it as part of their design vision for their gardens. The readings help you to align your outdoor space with the life you want to lead,” he said. “The mapping helps my customers make better decisions so making a better long-term investment in their garden and it leaves people feeling more of a sense of achievement. They often tell me afterwards that they feel proud of it because it feels exactly the right fit for them.” “The free energy readings provide an added element to my work which builds trust quicker because it's giving them something that no other landscaper does.” By also adopting Feng Shui (which translates as ‘wind water’), Connor ensures harmony, balance and positive energy flow are optimised in the garden by adjusting furniture layout, incorporating the right natural elements and minimising clutter. While astrology takes into consideration the importance of the sun’s movements as well as aspects of the person’s personality. But Connor admits it’s a leap of faith for many of his customers, adding: “I think the sceptics will always be sceptics but most people embrace it. I haven’t come across a single person who says the reading is wrong. They’ve agreed afterwards it makes total sense." “Sometimes certain things aren't working for them in their garden but they don’t know why and this is where the energy reading reports come in. I give them an angle that no one else offers.” Connor says he knows his dad, and former mentor, who died in December, was supportive of the successful business he went on to build. He said: “Dad had taught me a lot but I have also learned a lot as I’ve gone along. I know he was proud of me because other people have told me. It’s been a steep learning curve but now the mapping service has given both the business - and myself - a new lease of life.” Visit Healy Garden Design at here. Photo credit: Carol Bailey Photography.

  • Local Journalist Bags Fifth National Award

    A local journalist of three decades has been named an Influential Woman In Business after celebrating her latest award. Amanda Chalmers was recognised by Innervision Media for her excellence in PR & Communications consistently delivered by her company Chalmers News PR, based in Warwick. It is ‘in recognition of demonstrating exceptional dedication, professionalism and influence in delivering impactful journalism, strategic public relations and high-quality communications services. The recognition also ‘honours a continued commitment to excellence, creativity and meaningful storytelling, setting a high standard within the communications industry and making a lasting impact through trusted and effective PR solutions.’ The news brings Amanda’s impressive national awards tally to five, since launching her business seven and a half years ago. The former journalist’s 30 years in the regional press, culminated with a stint in the Stratford-Upon-Avon Herald editor’s chair between 2014 and 2018, before launching the agency, which specialises in affordable cross-sector PR for small businesses and start-ups as well as charities and not-for-profits. It follows her recently celebrating being named among the Top 10 Businesses From Home in the UK Small Business Awards, in December, as well as the Ladies First Excellence In Media Award in 2023 and 2025 as well as the Woman Who Awards ‘Achieves In Media’ category gong in 2024. UK-based Innervision Media focuses on recognising individuals and businesses making a genuine impact in their industry, bringing over 30 years of combined experience across media, PR and awards research. The company’s Matthew Scott said: “We look at a combination of research, industry presence and overall impact. This includes consistency, how a brand is positioning itself, and the results it is delivering. We also take into account future potential and direction, not just past achievements." “We have recognised a wide mix of founders, directors and growing brands across sectors such as PR, property, finance, health and the creative industries. In most cases, it comes down to people doing strong, consistent work and building something with long-term value." He added: “Amanda stood out to our editorial team for her approach to PR, which feels both thoughtful and genuine. Through Chalmers News PR, she has built a strong reputation for helping brands communicate clearly and position themselves effectively in their market." “It goes beyond visibility and focuses on making sure the message connects. That balance between creativity and results is what really stood out, along with the consistency in her work and a clear sense of long-term direction.” Amanda worked on newsdesks in and around Warwickshire, including the former Nuneaton Tribune and Rugby Advertiser, and, as deputy editor at the Daventry Express and Buckingham and Winslow Advertiser series before joining the Herald. She said: “I’m incredibly proud to be recognised nationally for my work once again, particularly in what must have been a very strong field. And the judges’ comments indicate they understand the important ethos that drives my work." “While my greatest reward is spotlighting and celebrating my clients’ successes, it is a joy to feel that same sense of achievement myself. Onwards and upwards together!" Visit Chalmers News PR here.

  • The Manor House Named Among Europe's Leading Luxury Resorts

    The Manor House Golf Club’s position among Europe’s premier golf destinations has been recognised within a new industry ranking of the continent’s most luxurious venues. The Golf World 'Top 100 Luxe Resorts Europe', a new wish-list of resorts guaranteeing long-weekend luxury, ranked The Manor House in 27th place in Europe and within the top five resorts in the UK and Ireland. This is further proof that The Manor House is delivering Golf on another level. The Cotswolds venue forms part of Exclusive Collection, the collection of country house hotels, spas and golf destinations across the UK. In recent years, the group has invested heavily across its golf and hospitality offering, helping strengthen its appeal among travelling golfers from the UK, Europe and the United States. Alongside The Manor House, properties including Pennyhill Park and Royal Berkshire are positioned within easy reach of many of Surrey and Berkshire’s world-renowned golf courses, further enhancing Exclusive Collection’s growing reputation within the luxury golf travel market. The latest ranking reflects the increasing international profile of both The Manor House and the wider collection as destinations for golfers seeking championship golf combined with high-end hospitality and countryside experiences. At the heart of The Manor House experience is the championship course, designed by Peter Alliss and Clive Clark, stretching across 365 acres of rolling Cotswolds countryside, ready to sweep you off your feet in a true countryside retreat. Alongside the golf, guests enjoy luxury accommodation, Michelin-star dining in the Bybrook restaurant, and the exceptional hospitality that defines the Exclusive Collection brand. Just a short distance away, and part of the resort, The Castle Inn complements the whole experience with its relaxed, quintessentially English pub atmosphere, offering stylish boutique rooms and seasonal dining, making it an ideal extension for guests looking to explore more of the surrounding area. The panel described The Manor House as: “One of GB&I’s leading couples’ retreats, golfing or otherwise. A characterful, luxurious hotel with real attention to detail, as well as the Michelin-starred Bybrook.” The Manor House also holds GEO Certification® for sustainable golf operations. As part of Exclusive Collection, a certified B Corp, sustainability is embedded across the entire business, ensuring a holistic and responsible approach to operations. Environmental work across the estate includes biodiversity and habitat management, water conservation initiatives and low-impact course maintenance supported by a new fleet of Kress robotic mowers. Alongside its sustainability commitments, the club has continued to invest in course conditioning and long-term improvements, including an ongoing full bunker renovation programme designed to further enhance the playing experience and presentation of the championship course. Andrew Ryan, director of golf at The Manor House, said: "To be recognised among Europe's leading luxury golf resorts is a hugely proud moment for everyone involved with The Manor House. We've continued to invest in the golf course, the wider guest experience and the long-term future of the estate, so this recognition feels particularly rewarding." "What's especially pleasing is to see The Manor House ranked alongside and ahead of some of the biggest and most established resorts in European golf. It reflects the hard work of the entire team and reinforces the direction we're heading in as a destination."

  • Visit Leicester Champions Regenerative Tourism Campaign

    Visit Leicester has officially announced its Green Days, Green Stays and Green Ways campaign, a major initiative designed to highlight the benefits of regenerative tourism and encourage eco-friendly travel throughout the city and county. Tourists the world over are increasingly aware of the impact of their travel and want to know that their choices make a positive difference, rather than leave a negative impact. Moving beyond traditional sustainability, the campaign focuses on "regenerative tourism" - an approach that allows visitors to immerse themselves in local culture, eat food grown and made nearby, reconnect with nature, and support independent businesses while leaving a minimal environmental footprint. As the UK’s first Environment City, Leicester is uniquely positioned to lead this movement. The campaign showcases the region's diverse "green" assets: Green Days: celebrates authentic experiences, from exploring the city’s 190+ parks, gardens and open spaces that offer an oasis of calm, visiting an attraction that is taking initiatives to reducing its carbon footprint to getting back to nature in the countryside or learning traditional woodland skills in the National Forest. Green Stays: Highlights accredited, eco-friendly accommodation, including Green Key certified hotels and tech-free rural hideaways. Green Ways: Promotes low-impact travel via an extensive network of walking routes, National Cycle Route 6, and the city’s signature green e-buses. The initiative spotlights local businesses and attractions leading the way in carbon reduction. This includes the National Space Centre, which explores humanity's impact on the solar system and Earth’s ecosystems, and local breweries that use solar energy to produce over 100,000 pints of beer annually. City attractions at King Richard III Visitor Centre and Jewry Wall both use systems to reduce energy usage and selected planting in the gardens that does not need additional watering. There are cafés on national cycle routes that only source local ingredients to reduce food miles and tech free hideaways where you can immerse yourself in nature for a while and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Mike Denby, Director of Inward Investment and Place marketing at Leicester City Council, said: “People want to know that their choices make a difference. Through this campaign, we are showing visitors how they can support local people and experience our real, authentic culture while preserving the environment for future generations.” For more information on how to plan your sustainable visit here.

  • ScottishPower And Masdar Set UK Record For Biggest Blade Install At East Anglia

    ScottishPower and Masdar’s East Anglia THREE offshore windfarm has set a UK offshore wind record with the installation of its first turbine – the first in the UK to feature 115 metre blades, each one longer than a Premier League football pitch. All 285 of the record-breaking blades for the project’s 95 turbines are being manufactured in the UK at Siemens Gamesa’s factory in Hull. Standing around 262 metres tall – higher than the observation deck at the Shard – the 14MW Siemens Gamesa turbines have a rotor diameter of 236 metres. A single revolution of just one turbine will produce enough electricity to power a UK home for more than four days, charge around 1,700 mobile phones, or brew nearly a thousand cups of tea. Charlie Jordan, ScottishPower Renewables CEO said: “This is a defining moment – and a UK industry first – for ScottishPower, Iberdrola and Masdar as we celebrate and accelerate the deployment of homegrown renewable energy at scale." “East Anglia THREE will be the biggest and most powerful offshore windfarm in our portfolio. That means billions of pounds invested in UK and global supply chains; thousands of jobs supported during construction; more than a hundred long-term roles created in the East of England; and greater energy security, with more clean power coming on to the grid than ever before." “This achievement is testament to successful collaboration with our strategic investment partner, Masdar, and the dedication and excellence of our own teams and supply chain partners. East Anglia THREE will play a crucial role in the UK’s clean energy future and it’s fantastic to see our vision come to life.” Located off the Suffolk coast in the UK, East Anglia THREE will be one of the world’s largest offshore windfarms when it comes into operation, delivering enough homegrown, clean electricity to power the equivalent of 1.3 million British homes. Husain Al Meer, Director of Global Offshore Wind at Masdar said: “This is a milestone moment for the UK’s offshore wind sector, with the completion of the first turbine for East Anglia THREE representing a truly monumental achievement." "We are proud to work alongside ScottishPower and Iberdrola to bring this project to fruition and to be playing our part in securing the UK’s clean energy future, while helping to create jobs and drive sustainable growth. We see tremendous potential for offshore wind, not just in the UK but across the wider European market, where offshore wind can provide critical energy security, power economic progress and help nations achieve their clean energy objectives.” The blades used on the East Anglia THREE turbines are seven metres longer than the previous record of 108 metres – also manufactured by Siemens Gamesa. Darren Davidson, UK Head of Siemens Energy and Siemens Gamesa, said: “These are the biggest blades ever built for a project in UK waters – a real landmark for offshore wind. We’re proud that these record-breaking blades have been manufactured at our factory in Hull, where we now employ more than 1,400 people, and where we’re also investing in the future by training our next generation of workers through a well-established and successful apprenticeship scheme.” The turbine installation was executed by Cadeler’s O-class Wind Osprey jack-up vessel, which will be joined later this month by the next generation P-class Wind Pace on its first deployment in European waters as the installation programme continues. Mikkel Gleerup, Cadeler CEO said: “We are proud to support ScottishPower Renewables and Masdar on East Anglia THREE – our first project together and a strong starting point for future collaboration." “By deploying two of our vessels in parallel, we can maintain a consistent and efficient installation pace throughout the campaign. This also marks Wind Pace’s first project in European waters since her delivery last year. Built to install the next generation of turbines, she brings increased capacity and operational flexibility, enhancing installation efficiency and supporting a more streamlined programme. Together, this strengthens our ability to deliver safely, reliably and at scale.”

  • Dundee Entrepreneur Keeps Local Cycling Expertise On The Road

    A Dundee entrepreneur has successfully launched his own cycle repair business with support from Business Gateway after more than two decades working in the local cycling trade. Nicholson and Frame Cycle Repairs was founded by Billy Frame following guidance from Business Gateway’s Early-Stage Growth service, helping him turn years of industry experience into a thriving independent venture. Billy first approached Business Gateway in July 2024 with plans to purchase the cycle shop where he had worked for more than 30 years, Nicholson’s Cycles, after its owners announced their intention to retire. Working closely with Business Gateway, Billy developed a detailed business plan and financial model to explore what would be involved in taking over the established business. As part of this process, he was introduced to potential loan providers and given guidance on funding options. However, as planning progressed it became clear that a different route might better suit his expertise. Having run the repair side of the business for many years, Billy decided to launch his own specialist repair service instead. With continued support from Business Gateway, Billy secured a smaller premises opposite the now-closed original shop and established Nicholson and Frame Cycle Repairs, allowing him to focus entirely on the service side of the industry where his skills are strongest. Since opening, the business has gone from strength to strength, building a loyal customer base among local cyclists. Business Gateway has continued to support Billy as the business grows, including arranging expert support on bookkeeping to strengthen the company’s financial management. Business Gateway also signposted the business to local estate agents to identify suitable premises and to finance provider DSL Business Finance for potential funding support. Billy Frame, owner of Nicholson and Frame Cycle Repairs, said: “After spending more than 30 years in the same shop, I knew I wanted to stay in the trade, but I wasn’t sure what the best route forward would be. Business Gateway helped me look at all the options and really think through what would work best for me." “Starting my own repair business has been the right decision and the support I’ve had has been invaluable. The best part is knowing that I can always pick up the phone or drop into the office whenever I need advice.” Stuart Milne, Business Gateway adviser, added: “Billy came to us with a clear passion for the cycling industry and a strong reputation locally. By working through the options together, we were able to help him find a route that made the most of his experience and allowed him to build a business that suits his skills. It’s fantastic to see Nicholson and Frame Cycle Repairs going from strength to strength.” Through tailored advice, expert support and connections to finance and local partners, Business Gateway continues to help entrepreneurs across Scotland start, grow and adapt their businesses. To find out more about how Business Gateway can help your business, visit here.

  • Cakes Brought To Life Through Illustration In DJCAD Graduate

    Strawberry tarts and coffee cream towers are just some of the cakes which have become adorable characters in a partnership between a former art student and beloved Scottish bakery. Illustrator Lauren Morsley, a graduate of Duncan of Jordanstone Collage of Art & Design, part of the University of Dundee, and Dundee and Fife based Fisher & Donaldson have together launched a new range of mechanise. And to celebrate the occasion they are running a pop-up shop selling the new products alongside some of the famous cakes. It is open for one day only, Saturday 30 May, at DJCAD’s Art & Design Undergraduate Degree Show 2026. Lauren, who graduated from DJCAD in 2018, grew up in Kirkcaldy and now lives in Dundee. She said, “It was such a lovely project to be involved with. “I grew up with Fisher & Donalson and have so many memories of going to the Cupar store with my gran and when family came up from England to visit." “It was fun to give the cakes characters and think about what their faces, arms and legs might look like, and how they might interact with each other. It was different to the other projects I’ve worked on." “It’s great to be involved in something which brings together local artists and businesses, and coming back to DJCAD to show the work at Degree Show feels like a full-circle moment.” Established in Fife in 1919, Fisher & Donaldson has been baking for over a century, with a love of the craft being handed down through five generations of the same family. Chloe Milne, Retail Director and fifth generation of Fisher & Donaldson, said, “We're a family business that's always believed baking should bring people together, so collaborating with a local creative like Lauren felt like a natural fit." “We love that Lauren’s designs were all inspired by our customer’s favourite cakes. Her designs bring the bakery's cake counter to life in a wonderful new way." “Popping up at Degree Show will let us celebrate this new range of merchandise and our shared love of something handmade and joyful – we can't wait to meet everyone on the day." The annual Degree Show at DJCAD is an opportunity for final year undergraduate students to exhibit their work, celebrate their time at the University and launch their creative careers. The work of 427 art, design and architecture students is on display throughout the University’s Matthew and Crawford buildings for family, friends and the public to view. Kirsty Macari, Associate Vice Principal (Education) at the University’s Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, said, “We’ve already had hundreds of people come and visit the huge range of artworks we have on display from our exceptionally talented students, and we’re looking forward to welcoming many more." “The Degree Show launches careers as our students graduate into the professional art world and the Fisher & Donaldson pop-up shop highlights the opportunities which are available to them in our communities." “This project exemplifies the value of strong local partnerships, supporting graduates to transition seamlessly into creative professional practice while contributing to vibrant and sustainable local communities.” Degree Show 2026 is open until Sunday 31 May, from 10:00-16:00, with late openings until 20:00 on Thursday 28 May and Saturday 30 May. The Fisher & Donaldson shop will be open on Saturday 30 May only, from 10:00-19:00, or until stocks sell out.

  • Hendy Puts Alpine In The Spotlight At Hampshire’s Steeleford Supercar Show

    Hendy Group is the headline sponsors of the Steeleford Supercar Show being held at Stansted House in Hampshire on Sunday 31 May, joining a celebration of some of the world’s most iconic supercars. This year Hendy will showcase Alpine’s full ‘dream garage’ line-up, including the French brand’s first full EV, the A290, and its revived A110. The event will also mark the official launch of the Alpine A390, a sporty all-electric C-segment fastback, by the local Hendy Alpine dealership, which is located on Villeneuve Way, Eastleigh. The event has an open-access paddock, giving guests the opportunity to get up close to some of the world’s most recognisable supercars. Alongside the automotive displays, visitors will be able to enjoy live DJ entertainment, premium automotive exhibitors, street food vendors, drinks and picnic areas across the site. Paul Smith, Marketing Director at Hendy Group, said: “Supporting events like the Steeleford Supercar Show is an important part of how we connect with local communities and automotive enthusiasts across the region. It’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase our partnership with Alpine and introduce visitors to the exciting new A390 alongside the wider Alpine range.” George Ford and Drue Steele, co-organisers of the Steeleford Supercar Show, said: “The Steeleford Supercar Show continues to grow each year, attracting visitors from across the South to experience an incredible line-up of performance cars and premium automotive brands at Stansted House. We’re delighted to have Hendy supporting the event this year as we prepare for another memorable showcase.” To find out more information about Hendy Group, please visit here. About Hendy Group Established in 1859, Hendy Group has been operating across the South Coast for over 165 years. Led by its fifth-generation family member – Paul Hendy, CEO – the business now employs over 1,500 colleagues. The Group is ranked 18th in the AM Top 100, with a 2024 turnover of just over £1bn, and proudly represents 22 automotive brands. It is committed to providing world-class customer service. It is committed to supporting the communities where it operates through Hendy Foundation and has donated nearly £500k to local charities and voluntary groups since it was set up in 2018.

  • England Rugby And Castore Unveil New Home, Training And Travel Collections

    ‘Into the Elements’ inspired collection blends heritage, innovation and elite performance England Rugby and Castore unveil the new men's and women's Home, Training and Travel collections for the 2026/27 season, introducing a bold new visual identity inspired by the forces of nature and engineered for elite performance. Built around the creative concept ‘Into the Elements’, the new collection combines the physicality of rugby with the power and unpredictability of the natural world. Drawing inspiration from the way wind and water shape surfaces over time, the range reflects themes of resilience, movement and evolution through innovative fabrications, engineered textures and dynamic detailing. At the heart of the launch is the new England Rugby Home Kit – a modern interpretation of tradition that delivers a clean and refined aesthetic while incorporating advanced performance technology. Designed as ‘heritage reborn’, the jersey stays true to England Rugby’s iconic white identity while introducing an engineered 3D jacquard fabric that creates depth, texture and movement throughout the garment. The jacquard pattern transitions from smooth to textured surfaces, inspired by the impact of natural forces over time, creating a contemporary visual language that remains rooted in England Rugby heritage. Lightweight construction, breath-able knit zones and moisture management technology ensure the jersey per-forms at the highest level, supporting player comfort during elite competition. Alongside the Home Kit, Castore and England Rugby also unveil the new Training and Travel collections for both the men’s and women’s teams. Designed to sup-port performance on and off the pitch, the wider range incorporates a rich palette of navy, purple, deep reds and earthy tones to create a cohesive identity across the full collection. The 2026/27 range also introduces enhanced technical innovation throughout the playing kit. A new moisture management finish improves the speed at which fab-ric draws sweat away from the skin, while upgraded abrasion testing standards have doubled from 10,000 to 20,000 revolutions to ensure greater durability and performance under the demands of international rugby. Tom Beahon, Co-Founder of Castore, said: “England Rugby represents one of the most iconic and respected institutions in world sport, so every detail of this collection had to reflect the pride, resilience and performance standards associ-ated with wearing the Red Rose." “For the 2026/27 season, we wanted to evolve the visual identity of the range while staying true to the heritage that supporters and players connect with so deeply. The ‘Into the Elements’ concept allowed us to introduce a more dynamic and modern design language inspired by movement, strength and the raw inten-sity of the game." “From the engineered jacquard fabrics through to the enhanced performance technologies embedded across the collection, every element has been obsessive-ly engineered to support players performing at the very highest level. We’re proud to unveil a range that combines innovation, craftsmanship and tradition for both players and fans alike.” The new England Rugby Home, Training and Travel collections will be available from 21st May 2026 across England Rugby and Castore retail channels.

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